Electric Tool Automatic Piston Retraction Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric tools require additional steps and complexity for automatic retraction functions, leading to increased trouble and time, and complications in structure and manufacturing costs due to the need for solenoids or motors for electrical operation of return valves.
Innovation Solution
A hydraulic mechanism with a return channel, pressure regulating valve, and operating pin that automatically returns the piston to its starting position when an operation is completed, allowing for easy attachment of mechanisms to release or stop the automatic retraction function without the need for solenoids or motors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If an automatic retraction function is implemented using a solenoid or motor to operate the return valve, then the piston can be automatically returned to its starting position, but the device complexity, weight, and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the electrical control system (solenoid or motor) with a purely mechanical pressure-based control system. The pressure regulating valve uses fluid pressure to automatically open and close the return channel, eliminating the need for electrical actuators. This mechanical substitution reduces device complexity and weight while maintaining automatic retraction functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the hydraulic fluid's own pressure to control the return valve operation. When the main valve closes, pressure builds up and automatically opens the return channel, allowing the piston to retract without external control. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for additional control components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a solenoid or motor is used to electrically operate the return valve for automatic retraction, then releasing or stopping the function halfway is enabled, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure regulating valve is designed with dynamic characteristics that allow it to respond to changing pressure conditions. By adjusting the spring preload or valve opening characteristics, the system can be configured to allow partial retraction or to hold position at intermediate points, providing adaptability without requiring complex electrical control.
3Device complexity
If the return valve is closed when the start switch knob is pushed and opened when releasing it, then the structure is simple, but temporary holding cannot be made during operation
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure regulating valve acts as an intermediary between the main hydraulic circuit and the return channel. It mediates the flow control by responding to pressure changes, enabling temporary holding positions during operation while maintaining overall structural simplicity. The valve's pressure-sensitive operation provides intermediate states that allow pausing during the retraction process.
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
Achieves automatic retraction with a simple mechanical structure, reducing complexity and manufacturing costs while enabling easy release or halfway stop of the automatic retraction function.
Implementation Method 1
a pressure regulating valve disposed in an operational flow channel for an operation branching from the return channel and configured to take an open position when a pressure of the fluid in the return channel becomes equal to or higher than a predetermined value
Implementation Method 2
an operating pin disposed in the operational flow channel and configured to be pushed by a pressure of the fluid flowing therein
Data Source
AI summary
An electric tool (1) includes piston (36) reciprocably housed in cylinder (34) provided in main body portion (10) and be pushed by a pressure of fluid; tool head (14) coupled to a distal end of the main body portion and performing a predetermined operation by being pushed by the piston; return channel (40) communicating from the cylinder to a fluid tank to allow the fluid to flow therethrough; pressure regulating valve (44) disposed in operational flow channel (42) branching from the return channel and taking an open position when the pressure of the fluid in the return channel becomes equal to or higher than a predetermined value; operating pin (46) disposed in the operational flow channel and pushed by the pressure of the fluid flowing therein; and return valve (48) disposed in the return channel and taking an open position by being pushed by the operating pin.