Oscillating Multi-Tool Clamp Release for Stuck Accessory Removal

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing oscillating multi-tools face challenges in easily removing tool accessories that may stick to the tool mounting part due to the clamping mechanism, leading to difficulties in tool exchange and potential damage.

Innovation Solution

The power tool incorporates a clamping mechanism with a push-down member that moves downward relative to the spindle upon manual unclamping, allowing the tool accessory to be easily disengaged from the tool mounting part, even if it has stuck, by pushing it down via the push-down member.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the clamp shaft and tool accessory are pressed together with high clamping force to prevent loosening during operation, then the reliability of tool accessory retention is improved, but the tool accessory may stick to the tool mounting part making removal difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetool accessory retentionVSAvoidtool accessory removal
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The removal function is segmented from the clamping function. The engagement member that prevents radial movement during operation is separated from the clamp shaft and can be independently moved to a second position during removal, allowing the clamp shaft to be pulled out without the engagement member interfering with the stuck tool accessory.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The push-down member performs a preliminary action by pushing the tool accessory downward before the clamp shaft is pulled out. This preliminary push-down action breaks the adhesion between the tool accessory and tool mounting part, making subsequent removal easier.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Stability of the object's composition

If the engagement member is always engaged with the clamp shaft to prevent radial movement, then the stability of the clamping mechanism is improved, but the clamp shaft cannot be easily removed for tool exchange

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveclamping mechanism stabilityVSAvoidclamp shaft removal
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The engagement member transitions from a static always-engaged state to a dynamic state where it can move between a first position (engaged during operation) and a second position (disengaged during removal). This dynamic behavior allows the system to adapt to different operational phases.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The engagement member is separated from the first holding member, allowing independent movement. This segmentation enables the engagement member to be moved to the second position while the first holding member remains in place, facilitating easy removal of the clamp shaft.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Manufacturing precision

If the tool accessory is firmly clamped between the clamp shaft and tool mounting part, then the precision of tool accessory positioning is improved, but the tool accessory may stick along the inclined surfaces making removal difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetool accessory positioningVSAvoidtool accessory removal
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The push-down member performs a preliminary action by pushing the tool accessory downward along the inclined surfaces before removal. This preliminary push breaks the adhesion that forms along the inclined surfaces during firm clamping, enabling easy subsequent removal.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The push-down member acts as an intermediary between the user and the stuck tool accessory. Instead of directly pulling the clamp shaft against the stuck accessory, the push-down member mediates by first pushing the accessory down to break adhesion, then the clamp shaft can be easily removed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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

This solution enables effortless removal of tool accessories, preventing damage and simplifying the tool exchange process, while ensuring reliable operation and user convenience.

Implementation Method 1

The first biasing member is configured to bias the clamp shaft upward toward a clamp position

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS12290868B2Power tool
Publication Date: 2025.05.06 MAKITA CORP
  • US12290868B2 patent drawing
  • US12290868B2 patent drawing
  • US12290868B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A power tool, such as an oscillating multi-tool, is configured to drive a tool accessory in an oscillating manner. The power tool includes a motor, and a spindle supported to be rotatable around a driving axis and configured to pivotally oscillate the tool accessory, which is removably mounted on the spindle, using power generated by the motor. An inner housing of the power tool houses the motor and the spindle, and has at least one airflow inlet and at least one airflow outlet. An outer housing of the power tool houses the inner housing and is elastically connected to the inner housing via at least one elastic member to be movable relative to the inner housing. A partition is disposed between the at least one inlet and the at least one outlet. The partition divides a space defined between the inner and outer housings into first and second airflow spaces.