Non-binding linear slides for power tool battery release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mechanisms for power tools with releasable battery packs often experience frictional binding or locking due to off-center loads, which can make it difficult to release the battery pack without excessive force or user frustration.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates non-binding linear slides with angled channel segments and spaced apart contact points on linear rails, allowing one rail to guide primary linear movement while the other rail has less or no contact, preventing frictional binding by adjusting contact points based on the applied force position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional linear slides are used with off-center loads, then the mechanism can provide linear movement guidance, but frictional binding or locking occurs making release difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the contact points between the linear rails and battery pack housing adjustable rather than fixed. When an off-center load is applied, the contact points dynamically shift position along the linear rails, allowing the system to adapt to the load distribution and prevent frictional binding while maintaining reliable linear movement guidance during normal operation.
2Stability of the object's composition
If contact points are fixed on linear rails, then linear movement guidance is stable, but off-center loads cause frictional binding
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the parameter changes principle by allowing the contact point positions on the linear rails to vary dynamically based on the applied load conditions. During stable operation with centered loads, the contact points maintain fixed positions for stable guidance. When off-center loads are applied, the contact points shift to new positions that redistribute the load and prevent frictional binding, thus adapting the system parameters to different operational states.
Data Source
AI summary
Devices with non-binding linear slides include: (a) a device body and first and second spaced apart linear rails held in the device body; (b) first and second spaced apart (rail) pathways held in cooperating alignment with the rails in the body, a respective one engaged with a respective one of the first and second linear rails that define spaced apart contact points; and (c) a translating actuation (e.g., input) member held by the body in communication with the rails. The actuation (e.g., input) member has a configuration that can generate off-center loads associated with forces applied at different positions of the actuation (e.g., input) member. Only one pathway and rail pair guides linear movement for the first and second force positions to thereby inhibit frictional binding.