Driving Tool Controller Switch Malfunction Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing driving tools may malfunction due to switch issues, leading to unintended operation of driven articles, posing safety concerns.
Innovation Solution
A driving tool with a controller that inhibits operation if abnormal switch states are detected, using a first and second movable member with corresponding switches, and a battery that can be attached and detached, ensuring safe operation by preventing driving when malfunctions are detected.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a single switch is used to control the driving tool, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability deteriorates due to potential malfunction leading to unintended operation
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into two independent switches (first switch and second switch) instead of using a single switch. This segmentation ensures that unintended operation cannot occur through a single switch malfunction, as both switches must be in the ON state simultaneously for the driven article to be driven. The controller monitors the state of both switches independently, thereby improving reliability while maintaining operational simplicity.
2Reliability
If multiple switches are added to prevent malfunction, then the reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller integrates the monitoring and control functions for both switches into a single control unit. The controller receives signals from both the first switch and the second switch, processes their states collectively, and controls the motor accordingly. This merging of control functions prevents the system from becoming overly complex while still achieving improved reliability through dual-switch monitoring.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller serves multiple functions: it monitors the state of the first switch, monitors the state of the second switch, processes the combined signals, and controls the motor operation. This multi-functionality allows the system to achieve high reliability through dual-switch control without proportionally increasing device complexity, as a single controller handles all control tasks.
3Reliability
If continuous monitoring of switch states is implemented, then the reliability is improved by detecting malfunctions, but the use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller performs periodic monitoring of the switch states rather than continuous monitoring. The controller checks the state of the first switch and the second switch at regular intervals during operation, which is sufficient to detect malfunctions such as unintended ON states while consuming less energy than continuous monitoring would require.
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
The solution effectively prevents unintentional driving of fasteners by detecting and addressing switch malfunctions, enhancing safety and reliability of the driving tool.
Implementation Method 1
a battery for supplying electric current to the motor is configured such that the battery is attachable and detachable
Implementation Method 2
a motor that drives the piston; a controller that controls the motor; if both the first switch and the second switch change to the ON state, generates an air pressure change inside the cylinder by driving the motor
Implementation Method 3
a cylinder; a piston capable of sliding within the cylinder; generates an air pressure change inside the cylinder by driving the motor and the driven article is thereby driven as a result of the pressure change
Data Source
AI summary
A driving tool, such as a nailer, includes a compression cylinder, a compression piston, an electric motor, a control apparatus, a trigger, a trigger switch, a driver guide, and a contact-arm switch. The control apparatus prevents fasteners, such as nails, from being driven when the controller identifies a state, in which it is likely that a malfunction or mis-operation of the driving tool is occurring.