Driver Solenoid Power Management for Firing Mode Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
The power consumption increases when switching from a state allowing continuous firing to a state where continuous firing is not possible, requiring a mechanism to reduce electric power usage in drivers.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a solenoid with a plunger and a controller that manages the power supply to the solenoid, allowing the driver to selectively switch between single firing and continuous firing modes while minimizing power consumption by shutting off the solenoid for part of the time when in continuous firing mode.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a switching mechanism is configured to be actuated by electric power to switch between continuous firing and single firing modes, then the switching function is achieved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The solenoid is actuated periodically rather than continuously. The controller supplies power to the solenoid only during specific intervals when switching between firing modes is needed, and shuts off power during continuous firing operation. This periodic actuation achieves the mode switching function while dramatically reducing overall power consumption compared to keeping the solenoid continuously powered.
2Reliability
If the solenoid is continuously powered to maintain switching capability, then the switching mechanism remains ready, but power consumption increases and device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the existing compressed gas in the pressure accumulation chamber to actuate the solenoid during mode switching, rather than requiring continuous external power supply. The compressed gas itself serves the dual purpose of both the driving medium for the striking portion and the actuating medium for the solenoid, eliminating the need for continuous electrical power while maintaining switching capability.
3Reliability
If the solenoid is continuously powered, then the switching mechanism remains ready, but device weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The solenoid is actuated periodically rather than continuously. The controller supplies power to the solenoid only during specific intervals when switching between firing modes is needed, and shuts off power during continuous firing operation. This periodic actuation achieves the mode switching function while dramatically reducing overall power consumption compared to keeping the solenoid continuously powered.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach effectively suppresses the increase in electric power consumption, contributing to size reduction and weight savings in the driver, enabling efficient operation in both firing modes.
Implementation Method 1
a solenoid (112) having a plunger (89)
Implementation Method 2
a controller (94) that stops supply of electricity to the solenoid (112)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A
AI summary
A driver capable of suppressing an increase in the power consumed for actuating a switching mechanism is provided. The driver 10 includes a pressure chamber and a striking portion actuated in a direction of striking a fastener when compressed gas is supplied to the pressure chamber, and the driver 10 can select a single firing and a continuous firing. The driver 10 further includes a switching mechanism 87 having a first actuated state in which the striking portion can be actuated in the direction of striking the fastener when the single firing is selected and a second actuated state in which the striking portion is blocked from being actuated in the direction of striking the fastener when the continuous firing is selected and a control unit 94 configured to switch the switching mechanism 87 from the first actuated state to the second actuated state when a predetermined time elapses in a state where the continuous firing is selected and the switching mechanism 87 is in the first actuated state. The control unit 94 stops the power supply to the switching mechanism 87 for at least part of a period of time when the predetermined time elapses.