Motorized Tool Counterbalance Module for Dynamic Weight Support

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing power tools are strenuous to use due to their weight, leading to physical strain and limited work duration, and existing passive assistance systems fail to provide sufficient support, especially during dynamic tasks.

Innovation Solution

A counterbalancing system with an electronic module, motor, and control device that adjusts a traction cable's length to counteract the weight force of power tools, allowing for dynamic and static support without user adjustment, and can be worn as a backpack.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Power

If power tools are made heavier to increase functionality, then work capability is improved, but user fatigue increases and work duration is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvework capabilityVSAvoiduser fatigue
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a counterbalancing system that generates an upward counterforce to offset the downward weight force of power tools. The system includes a cantilever arm that extends forward, a winding apparatus with a motor that winds a traction cable to pull the tool upward, and a control device that determines the counterforce needed based on the tool's weight. This directly applies the anti-weight principle by creating an opposing force to compensate for the heavy tool weight, enabling users to work with powerful tools for extended periods without excessive fatigue.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #8Anti-weight (Counterweight)

2Ease of operation

If passive assistance systems are used to support power tools, then ease of operation is improved, but support sufficiency deteriorates during dynamic tasks

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesupport provisionVSAvoidsupport sufficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from static passive suspension to dynamic active support. The control device continuously determines the weight force of the power tool and adjusts the counterforce in real-time based on current operating conditions. The motor-driven winding apparatus dynamically modifies the traction cable tension to match the tool's weight and movement demands. This dynamic adaptation ensures sufficient support during both static holding and dynamic tasks, resolving the limitation of fixed passive systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system incorporates a feedback mechanism where the control device continuously monitors the weight force of the power tool and adjusts the counterforce accordingly. The control device receives information about the tool's weight and operational state, processes this data, and commands the motor to modify the winding apparatus output. This closed-loop feedback ensures the support force always matches the actual requirements, providing reliable support during dynamic tasks while maintaining ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Adaptability or versatility

If assistance systems are made adjustable for different users, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser adaptationVSAvoidadjustment mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically adapts to different users and tools without requiring manual adjustments. The control device autonomously determines the weight force of whichever power tool is being used and generates the appropriate counterforce. The motor-driven winding apparatus self-regulates the traction cable tension based on real-time measurements. This self-service capability eliminates the need for users to manually adjust mechanical components, providing adaptability to different users and tools while keeping the device relatively simple in operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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

The system significantly reduces user fatigue by transferring the weight's load from the user's arm and shoulder muscles, enabling longer work periods with reduced risk of adverse health effects and improved work efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

a motor (13) for driving the apparatus for winding up the traction cable (4)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic conversion: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

the system is configured to determine a counterforce for the weight force of the object and to transmit same to the object

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectForce counterbalancing: Force

Data Source

PatentUS20240183489A1System, kit and electronic module for counterbalancing a weight force of an object
Publication Date: 2024.06.06 HILTI AG
  • US20240183489A1 patent drawing
  • US20240183489A1 patent drawing
  • US20240183489A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A system for counterbalancing a weight force of an object is provided. The object is fastenable to a traction cable, wherein the traction cable is guided in or on a cantilever in the direction of a back structure of the system, wherein a second end of the cantilever can be accommodated by a back structure, and the system can be carried by a user of the system via the back structure. The system is characterized by an electronic module which includes an apparatus for winding up the traction cable and a motor for driving the apparatus for winding up the traction cable, wherein the system is configured to determine a counterforce for the weight force of the object and to transmit same to the object. It is particularly preferred for the purposes of the invention that a control device of the system is configured to adjust a counterforce with respect to the weight force of the object. The system can preferably be configured to create a force balance between the weight force of the object on the one hand and the counterforce on the other hand. An electronic module for counterbalancing a weight force of an object, and to a kit which includes such an electronic module, a traction cable, and at least one deflection pulley. With the invention, the weight force of an object, which can be fastened to a traction cable of a counterbalancing system, can be compensated for particularly well and in a way that is easy on the back.