Machine Tool Parameterizing Interface for Ergonomic Function Mapping

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing machine tools lack a flexible and ergonomic system for allocating operating elements to actuation functions, leading to inefficient and user-unfriendly operation.

Innovation Solution

A parameterizing interface is introduced to allocate operating elements to actuation functions, allowing for customizable configurations of operating element positions and functions, such as direction of rotation and illumination, through a control device and memory system.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a fixed operating element allocation system is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability and ergonomic operation are worsened

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveadaptabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic allocation system where operating elements can be reassigned to different actuation functions through software parameterization. The control device stores multiple allocation configurations that can be switched based on user preferences or operational requirements, allowing the system to adapt without hardware changes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses parameterization to store allocation information in a parameter memory structure. Each operating element can be assigned different actuation functions by changing software parameters rather than physical connections. This allows flexible reconfiguration of the control system's functional mapping.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Ease of operation

If a customizable operating element allocation system is implemented, then the ease of operation and adaptability are improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of operationVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system provides self-service functionality by allowing users to independently configure operating element allocations through an intuitive interface. The control device automatically stores and applies user-defined configurations, eliminating the need for technical expertise or complex setup procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a universal allocation framework where a single operating element can serve multiple actuation functions through software configuration. This multi-functionality is achieved through the parameterized control system that can map different physical inputs to various control commands.

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

3Ease of operation

If operating elements are fixed to specific functions, then the device complexity is minimized, but the ergonomic operation and user preferences are worsened

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveergonomic operationVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adjusts the mapping between operating elements and actuation functions based on user preferences stored in memory. Users can define which operating element positions correspond to which functions, and the control device automatically implements these custom mappings during operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS12569975B2Machine tool having a parameterizing interface
Publication Date: 2026.03.10 FESTOOL GMBH
  • US12569975B2 patent drawing
  • US12569975B2 patent drawing
  • US12569975B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A machine tool in the form of a hand-held power tool or a semi-stationary machine tool, the machine tool having a tool holder for holding a work tool, a drive motor for driving the tool holder and at least one electrical function unit, the machine tool having a control device for actuating the at least one electrical function unit using at least one actuation function, the at least one electrical function unit being designed to perform an output function depending on the actuation by the at least one actuation function, and the machine tool having at least one operation element, which can be moved by an operator of the machine tool between a first operation element position and at least one second operation element position to actuate the control device. The machine tool has a parameterizing interface, via which at least one allocation parameter can be parameterized for allocation of the at least one operation element and the first operation element position and/or the at least one second operation element position to the at least one actuation function.