Mode Switching Mechanism for Multi-Mode Drill

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Solution Overview

Problem

Multi-mode drills often experience blocking of the mode switching operation member due to internal mechanism interactions, requiring inconvenient restarting and shutdown to resolve, especially when switching from clutch mode to non-clutch mode.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating an elastic energy storage member between the operation member and actuator in the mode switching mechanism, allowing the operation member to move freely and facilitating smooth mode switching by storing and releasing energy to overcome potential blockages.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a mode switching mechanism is mounted at the housing with an operation member for selecting operation modes, then the operator can choose different operation modes, but the operation member may be unduly blocked and difficult to move due to interaction of internal mechanisms

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemode switching capabilityVSAvoidoperation member mobility
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

A decoupling mechanism is introduced as an intermediary between the operation member and the internal switching mechanisms. This decoupling mechanism includes a decoupling member that can rotate independently and a decoupling spring that connects the operation member to the internal mechanisms. When blocking occurs, the decoupling mechanism allows the operation member to continue rotating while the internal mechanisms remain blocked, preventing force transmission that would make the operation member difficult to move.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The decoupling mechanism introduces dynamic elements including a rotatable decoupling member and a flexible decoupling spring. These dynamic components allow the system to adapt during mode switching: the decoupling member can rotate freely to accommodate blocking, and the decoupling spring can compress or extend to absorb shocks and prevent force transmission, making the operation member easier to move even when internal mechanisms are blocked.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If the operation member is directly connected to internal mechanisms for mode switching, then mode switching can be achieved, but the operator must inconveniently re-start the tool to make internal mechanisms release from blocked position

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemode switching functionVSAvoidtime for mode switching operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The decoupling mechanism acts as a mediator that separates the operation member from the internal mechanisms. When blocking occurs during mode switching, the decoupling mechanism allows the operation member to rotate freely without being constrained by the blocked internal mechanisms. This eliminates the need to restart the tool, as the operation member can be manually rotated to the desired position even when internal mechanisms are blocked, significantly reducing the time required for mode switching.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The decoupling mechanism performs preliminary action by allowing the operation member to rotate independently before the internal mechanisms are ready to switch modes. This preliminary rotation of the operation member does not force the blocked internal mechanisms, and once the internal mechanisms are ready, they automatically engage with the new mode setting, eliminating the need for restarting and reducing switching time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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

Prevents blocking during mode switching, enhances operational ease and reliability, providing a simple and effective mechanism for seamless transitions between drill modes.

Implementation Method 1

at least an elastic energy storage member is arranged between the operation member and the actuator

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic energy storage: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS9908229B2Multi-mode drill and mode switching mechanism thereof
Publication Date: 2018.03.06 CHERVON HK LTD WANCHAI
  • US9908229B2 patent drawing
  • US9908229B2 patent drawing
  • US9908229B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A multi-mode drill includes a housing, a motor and a transmission mechanism, wherein the motor and the transmission mechanism are received in the housing. The transmission mechanism has a gear reduction component and a main shaft, wherein the gear reduction component is driven by the motor, and the main shaft is connected with the gear reduction component and driven by the gear reduction component to rotate. The multi-mode drill further includes a mode switching mechanism for causing the transmission mechanism to operate in different modes. The mode switching mechanism includes an operation member and an actuator. The actuator is actuated by the operation member and engages with the transmission mechanism. At least an elastic energy storage member is arranged between the operation member and the actuator.