Impact Tool ON-Lock Mechanism via Mode Switch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional hammer drills lack an ON-lock function that maintains the motor in an operating state when the trigger lever is not pulled, requiring complex mechanisms and multiple operation processes to switch between activation and deactivation.
Innovation Solution
An impact tool with a motor, two operation parts, and a control system that allows ON-lock control by operating the second part while in the first operating mode, maintaining the motor's state even when the first operation part is not operated, and switching between modes based on the operation of both parts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional hammer drill is designed to maintain the motor in an operating state when the trigger lever is not pulled (ON-lock function), then the ease of operation for continuous crushing work is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional control mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The second operation part (mode switch) is designed to serve dual functions: it selects the operating mode (hammer mode or hammer drill mode) and simultaneously activates the ON-lock function when pressed in hammer mode. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for a separate ON-lock button or switch, thereby improving ease of operation while avoiding additional device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the mode selection function and the ON-lock activation function into a single operation part (the mode switch). When the mode switch is operated to select hammer mode, it simultaneously triggers the ON-lock control, maintaining the motor in an operating state. This consolidation of functions reduces the number of separate control mechanisms needed
2Ease of operation
If multiple operation parts and control mechanisms are added to achieve the ON-lock function, then the ease of operation is improved, but the number of operation processes increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mode switch performs multiple functions: it selects the operating mode and activates the ON-lock function in a single operation. This eliminates the need for separate operation steps for mode selection and ON-lock activation, reducing the total number of operation processes and time required
3Device complexity
If a simple mechanism is used to achieve the ON-lock function, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to switch between operating modes becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The mode switch is designed to handle multiple tasks: selecting hammer mode, selecting hammer drill mode, and activating the ON-lock function. By consolidating these functions into a single operation part with clear operational states, the patent maintains simplicity in the control mechanism while ensuring ease of mode switching and ON-lock activation
Data Source
AI summary
An impact tool that realizes an ON-lock function with a simple mechanism and makes it possible to switch between activation and deactivation of the ON-lock function with few operation processes is provided. A hammer drill having at least two operating modes including a hammer mode in which an impact force is transmitted to a tool bit whereas a rotational force is not transmitted thereto includes: a motor as a power source; a trigger lever and an ON-lock button that are operated by an operator; a sensor that detects whether a selected operating mode is the hammer mode or not; and a controller that controls the motor based on an operation of the trigger lever and the ON-lock button. When the ON-lock button is operated while the hammer mode is selected, the controller performs ON-lock control to maintain the motor in the operating state even when the trigger lever is not operated.