Impact Tool Locking Mechanism for Hands-Free Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing impact tools require continuous user operation to maintain the ON state for chipping or scraping, which can be inconvenient and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
An impact tool with a lock mechanism that includes a switch, operation member, first lock member, and second lock member, allowing the tool to be locked in both ON and OFF positions, eliminating the need for continuous user operation by using a biasing mechanism and interference parts to secure the operation member.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a lock mechanism is added to lock the operation member in the ON position, then the convenience is improved by eliminating the need for continuous user operation, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the first lock member and second lock member into a single integrated locking system. The first lock member locks the operation member in the ON position, while the second lock member locks it in the OFF position, both within a unified mechanism structure. This merging approach provides comprehensive locking functionality while minimizing the increase in device complexity through integrated design.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock mechanism is designed to perform multiple functions: the first lock member provides locking in the ON position for hands-free operation, the second lock member provides locking in the OFF position for safety, and both work together within a single locking system. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by delivering comprehensive operational control and safety features.
2Reliability
If a lock mechanism with multiple lock members is implemented, then the reliability is improved by preventing unintended operation, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking function is segmented into two distinct lock members: the first lock member specifically for locking in the ON position, and the second lock member specifically for locking in the OFF position. This segmentation allows each lock member to be optimized for its specific function, improving reliability through specialized design while keeping the overall structure manageable through clear functional division.
Solution Approach 2:
The second lock member is designed to prevent unintended operation by locking the operation member in the OFF position when safety is a concern. This preliminary protective action counteracts potential harmful effects before they can occur, enhancing reliability by proactively preventing accidents or unintended tool activation.
3Ease of operation
If the second lock member is made movable between lock position and lock-release position, then the ease of operation is improved by allowing selective locking, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The second lock member is designed as a movable component that can transition between a lock position (where it engages to lock the operation member in OFF) and a lock-release position (where it disengages to allow operation). This dynamic design provides operational flexibility and user control, improving ease of operation by allowing selective locking based on safety needs, while the movable nature is managed through integrated guidance structures.
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 user convenience by allowing the tool to be operated in a hands-free mode, improving work efficiency and reducing the need for frequent activation and deactivation during chipping or scraping operations.
Implementation Method 1
the holding mechanism is configured to hold the second lock member in the lock position and also in the lock-release position by a biasing force of the biasing member
Data Source
AI summary
An impact tool includes a switch for driving the tool accessory, an operation member configured to be movable between an OFF position and an ON position, a first lock member configured to lock the operation member in the ON position, a second lock member configured to be movable between a lock position and a lock-release position in response to an external operation by a user, and a holding mechanism configured to hold the second lock member in the lock position and also in the lock-release position. The second lock member in the lock position is capable of locking the operation member in the OFF position, and the second lock member in the lock-release position is incapable of locking the operation member in the OFF position.