Hand-held Power Tool Mode Switching for Versatile Operation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional hand-held power tools are limited in application, as they are not suited for use against surfaces other than ceilings due to orientation-dependent safety mechanisms, and lack versatility for remote operation.

Innovation Solution

A hand-held power tool with a handle for manual operation, an interface for remote actuation, a control device that switches modes based on attachment to a remote actuation device, and sensors for orientation and substrate detection, enabling both manual and remote operation modes, including a position detection device and pressing sensor for safe and versatile use.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If an orientation-dependent safety yoke is used to prevent accidental triggering, then safety is improved, but the tool becomes limited to ceiling application only

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesafetyVSAvoidapplication range
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The control device dynamically switches between manual mode and remote actuation mode based on the detection of the remote actuation device. This dynamic adaptation allows the same tool to function differently in different contexts - providing safety through orientation dependence when used manually on ceilings, while enabling versatile remote operation when attached to the extension pole

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The hand-held power tool is designed to perform multiple functions through mode switching. In manual mode, it operates with orientation-dependent safety for ceiling work. In remote actuation mode, it can be used with extension poles for various applications including ceilings, walls, and floors, making it universally applicable across different surfaces and scenarios

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If a remote actuation device is added for versatile operation, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperation modeVSAvoidcontrol system
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control device acts as an intermediary that receives signals from the remote actuation device and translates them into appropriate tool operations. It mediates between the remote control input and the tool's actuation mechanisms, enabling versatile operation without requiring the tool itself to be fundamentally redesigned for each application type

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The control device includes an interrogator that detects whether the remote actuation device is attached and monitors the operational mode. This feedback mechanism allows the system to automatically switch between manual and remote actuation modes based on the detected configuration, simplifying the user interface while maintaining versatility

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Reliability

If manual operation requires pressing against the ceiling for triggering, then safety is improved, but ease of operation for other surfaces is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesafetyVSAvoidtriggering convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The triggering mechanism dynamically adapts its behavior based on the operational mode. In manual mode, the trigger requires pressing against the ceiling to ensure safe operation. In remote actuation mode, the trigger can be activated remotely without requiring contact with the surface, making it convenient for use on walls, floors, and other surfaces

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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

Enables safe and versatile operation of hand-held power tools against various surfaces by allowing manual or remote actuation based on orientation and attachment, enhancing usability and safety without accidental triggering.

Implementation Method 1

the interrogator includes a sensor, preferably a magnetic sensor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic sensor detection: Magnetic Field

Implementation Method 2

the hand-held power tool furthermore includes a pressing sensor for detecting whether the hand-held power tool is pressed against a substrate

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPressing sensor detection: Pressure Increase

Data Source

PatentUS10792797B2Hand-held power tool and device comprising the hand-held power tool
Publication Date: 2020.10.06 HILTI AG
  • US10792797B2 patent drawing
  • US10792797B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The invention relates to a hand-held tool, in particular a nail-setting device, comprising a handle for manual actuation of the hand-held tool, an interface for fastening the hand-held tool to a remote actuation device, a control apparatus for controlling the hand-held tool in a manual mode and in a remote actuation mode, and a querying apparatus for querying whether the hand-held tool is fastened to a remote actuation device, wherein the control apparatus controls the hand-held tool in the manual mode if the querying apparatus detects that the hand-held tool is not fastened to a remote actuation device, and wherein the control apparatus controls the hand-held tool in the remote actuation mode if the querying apparatus detects that the hand-held tool is fastened to a remote actuation device.