Method of controlling a suction device

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing suction device control methods are limited in providing an auto-start function for various machine tools, particularly hand-held tools, regardless of their power supply type, such as battery-operated or pneumatically operated tools, as they rely on a specific power source connection.

Innovation Solution

A method that records vibration data from a suction hose using a sensor module, evaluates this data against comparison data, and controls the electric motor based on the comparison result, allowing the suction device to autonomously start or stop, regardless of the machine tool's power supply, ensuring compatibility with diverse energy sources.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the suction device uses a mains socket connection for auto-start function, then the auto-start capability is achieved, but the compatibility with battery-operated and pneumatically operated machine tools is lost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompatibility with different machine tool power suppliesVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the electrical/mains-based auto-start detection system with a vibration-based detection system. Instead of relying on electrical connections or power supply types, the suction device uses vibration sensors to detect the operational state of any machine tool through mechanical vibrations transmitted through the suction hose, enabling universal compatibility across different power supply types.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces vibration signals as an intermediary medium for detecting machine tool operation. The vibration sensor acts as an intermediary that translates mechanical vibrations from any machine tool into control signals for the suction device, bypassing the need for direct electrical connection or power supply integration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If the suction device monitors vibration data to detect machine tool operation, then universal auto-start functionality is achieved, but the device complexity increases due to additional sensors and control logic

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveautomatic start functionVSAvoidsensor module and control unit
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The suction device performs self-diagnosis and self-starting by automatically detecting machine tool operation through vibration signals. The control unit autonomously processes vibration data, compares it with reference values, and triggers the suction function without requiring user intervention or complex external control systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent monitors changes in vibration parameters (amplitude, frequency, pattern) to detect the operational state of the machine tool. By tracking parameter changes in the vibration signal rather than using complex absolute measurements, the system achieves reliable detection with simpler sensor and control requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 universal auto-start functionality for suction devices with both mains-connected and battery-operated hand-held machine tools, enhancing user convenience and compatibility across different manufacturers and energy supply types.

Implementation Method 1

a sensor module (70) arranged on the suction hose (36) for detecting vibration data (110), in particular for detecting vibrations of a machine tool (100), in particular of a hand-held power tool

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectVibration detection: Vibration

Data Source

PatentEP4090213B1Method of controlling a suction device
Publication Date: 2024.07.31 ROBERT BOSCH GMBH
  • EP4090213B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4090213B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4090213B1 patent drawing

AI summary

The invention relates to a method (200) for controlling a suction device (10), wherein the suction device (10) comprises at least one electric motor (80) at least for generating a suction function, comprising at least the following method steps - detecting vibration data (120) on a suction hose (36) of the suction device (10), - evaluating the vibration data (120) by comparing it with comparison data and generating a comparison result, - controlling the electric motor (80) in accordance with the comparison result.