Flywheel Fastening Tool Timeout Control for Faster Re-Firing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Flywheel driven fastening tools face inefficiencies in fastener firing speed due to the time required for the flywheel to spool-up to the necessary RPM, and current systems lack user input mechanisms to manage flywheel deactivation effectively.
Innovation Solution
A fastening tool with a controller that implements multiple timeout periods and user input conditions to control the flywheel's operation, including trigger and contact trip switches, and sensors to manage flywheel speed and deactivation based on user interaction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If the flywheel is allowed to return to rest (0 RPM) without user input, then the motor can be deactivated to save energy, but the user experiences maximal wait time for spool-up
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by maintaining flywheel rotation at a reduced speed during a timeout period after the trigger is released, before completely deactivating the motor. This preliminary maintenance of motion reduces the subsequent spool-up time while still allowing energy savings, resolving the contradiction between energy conservation and quick restart.
2Speed
If the motor continues driving the flywheel indefinitely, then the flywheel maintains high speed for quick firing, but energy is wasted when not needed
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements periodic action by using a timeout mechanism that periodically checks whether the trigger is still pressed. The motor drives the flywheel continuously only during the timeout period after trigger release, then deactivates. This periodic control maintains high speed when needed while avoiding indefinite energy consumption, balancing speed and energy efficiency.
3Speed
If the flywheel is driven for a long period without user input, then the flywheel reaches target speed, but the tool becomes less responsive to user commands
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies feedback by continuously monitoring the trigger state and using this information to control motor operation. The timeout mechanism provides feedback about user intent, allowing the system to adjust flywheel speed maintenance accordingly. This feedback loop ensures the tool responds appropriately to user commands while maintaining target speed, resolving the contradiction between speed achievement and operational responsiveness.
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
Enhances fastener firing efficiency by optimizing flywheel speed and deactivation, reducing wait times, and improving user control over tool operation.
Implementation Method 1
a drive motor assembly can include an electric motor coupled to the flywheel to rotate the flywheel
Implementation Method 2
a rotating flywheel that engages a driver to impart energy to the driver, causing the driver to move and drive or deform the fastener
Data Source
AI summary
A controller for a flywheel driven fastening tool that keeps the flywheel active at or near a ready-to-fire state, for a defined period of time without the continuous user input into the trigger switch or contact trip. The controller controls two (2) or more different timeout periods and flywheel speeds that occur due to different scenarios, such as variations in the user input at the trigger and contact trip. As a result, the controller reduces the wait time for the flywheel to return to a target speed. Thus, user time for performing a nailer application with a flywheel nailer is decreased.