Moveable Grommet Sealing for Protected Power Tool Service Access
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Power tool interfaces, such as those in chainsaws, are exposed to harsh operating environments, leading to potential damage or blockage due to saw dust, debris, and other elements, compromising their reliability.
Innovation Solution
A moveable grommet system that transitions between an operating and service position, enclosing the access interface cable and connector within the housing during operation and allowing external access when needed, using an elastomer material and form-fitting mechanisms for secure sealing and protection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the access interface cable and connector are exposed on the outside of the housing, then service access is facilitated, but the interface is exposed to harsh operating environment including saw dust, debris, and ice which may damage or block the interface during long-term use
Solution Approach 1:
The grommet is designed to be moveable between an operating position and a service position, allowing the access interface to dynamically transition between protected and accessible states. This dynamic mechanism resolves the contradiction by enabling the interface to be enclosed during operation for protection while allowing easy access during servicing.
Solution Approach 2:
The grommet creates a localized protected environment for the cable and connector within the housing opening. By providing a sealed enclosure specifically at the interface location while maintaining overall housing integrity, the solution protects the sensitive interface components from harsh environmental conditions while preserving serviceability through the moveable design.
2Reliability
If the access interface cable and connector are fully enclosed in the housing, then protection from environmental damage is improved, but service access becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The moveable grommet mechanism allows the interface to transition from a fully enclosed state during operation to an accessible state during servicing. This resolves the contradiction by providing both protection and access at different times, eliminating the need to choose between the two opposing requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The grommet acts as an intermediary element that mediates between the housing and the access interface. It provides a controlled opening that can be positioned to either protect or expose the interface, serving as a buffer that reconciles the conflicting requirements of protection and accessibility.
3Reliability
If a moveable grommet system is used to transition between operating and service positions, then both protection and service access are achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The grommet is made from flexible elastomer material that allows it to be easily moved between positions and to conform to the housing opening. This flexibility simplifies the mechanism compared to rigid moving parts, reducing overall complexity while maintaining the protective and accessible functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The grommet is constructed from elastomer material that combines sealing properties with mechanical flexibility. This composite material approach allows a single component to perform multiple functions (sealing, protecting, and enabling movement) without requiring additional complex mechanisms or materials.
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
Enhances the reliability and protection of the access interface by keeping it enclosed during operation while facilitating easy service access, reducing the risk of damage and unauthorized access.
Implementation Method 1
The grommet may be oversized in two dimensions with regard to the opening. In this way, the grommet may be compressed when fitted in the opening in the operating position. Thereby, it is kept firmly in place during operation.
Implementation Method 2
The grommet may be made in an elastomer material such as natural rubber or silicone rubber, for instance.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a power tool (1) driven by an internal combustion engine and comprising a housing (9) and having a service access interface (11) for connecting to an internal control unit of the engine during service. The access interface (11) comprises a connector (21) and an access interface cable, connecting the connector (21) to the control unit. The housing comprises an opening (15), and a grommet (13) is provided configured to clamp the access interface cable or the connector (21). The grommet (13) is configured to be moved between an operating position and a service position. In the operating position, the grommet (13) is located in the opening (15), the access interface cable and connector (21) being fully enclosed in the housing (9), and in the service position, the grommet (13) is located in said notch, the access interface cable or connector (21) extending through the opening inside the grommet (13).