Oscillating Tool Eccentric Drive for Variable Stroke Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing oscillating power tools lack an efficient mechanism for adjusting the angular amplitude of oscillation, limiting their versatility and effectiveness in various operations such as cutting and sanding.
Innovation Solution
The power tool incorporates an eccentric member and a forked member with an amplitude adjustment actuator, allowing for the conversion of motor rotation into oscillating rotation with adjustable angular amplitude, enabling the operator to change the oscillation amplitude by moving the eccentric member relative to the forked member.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed amplitude mechanism is used in oscillating power tools, then the device structure is simple, but the adaptability and versatility are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic amplitude adjustment mechanism where the eccentric member can be moved radially relative to the drive shaft, allowing the oscillation amplitude to be changed during operation. This transforms a static system into a dynamic one, enabling the tool to adapt to different cutting depths and material types while maintaining a relatively compact structure through the use of movable components within the existing mechanism framework
2Length of moving object
If the oscillation amplitude is increased for deeper cutting, then the cutting depth is improved, but the control precision and stability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables continuous adjustment of the oscillation amplitude parameter by moving the eccentric member radially, allowing the operator to select the precise stroke length needed for each task. This parameter change capability provides fine control over the oscillation characteristics, enabling precise control for delicate work while also permitting larger amplitudes for deeper cutting when required, thus resolving the trade-off between stroke length and control precision
3Productivity
If an amplitude adjustment mechanism is added to the power tool, then the operational effectiveness is enhanced, but the device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the amplitude adjustment mechanism to serve multiple functions: it controls the oscillation amplitude, provides operational feedback through the adjustment indicator, and maintains the adjusted position through the receptacle engagement. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components for each function, simplifying the overall manufacturing process while enhancing operational effectiveness through integrated design
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 solution provides an oscillating power tool with infinitely adjustable angular amplitude, enhancing its versatility and operational effectiveness across different tasks by allowing the operator to customize the oscillation stroke length, thereby improving performance and adaptability.
Implementation Method 1
an eccentric member configured to rotate off center about the motor axis
Data Source
AI summary
An oscillating power tool including a housing, a motor including a drive shaft rotatable about a motor axis, an output spindle configured to be driven by the motor and journaled for oscillating rotation about an oscillation axis, and a drive mechanism. The drive mechanism is configured to convert rotation of the drive shaft into oscillating rotation of the output spindle about the oscillation axis and includes an eccentric member and a forked member. Oscillating rotation of the forked member has an angular amplitude about the oscillation axis. The eccentric member is movable with respect to the forked member to change the angular amplitude of oscillating rotation of the forked member. An amplitude adjustment actuator is configured to move the eccentric member to change the angular amplitude of oscillating rotation of the forked member. The amplitude adjustment actuator defines a receptacle. At least a portion of the forked member is disposed in the receptacle.