Oscillating Tool Clamp Arrangement for Quick Accessory Swapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Power hand tools require the use of secondary tools to swap out accessories, such as cutting or sanding accessories, which can be cumbersome and inefficient, as users need to retract fasteners or use wrenches to unlock and lock accessories.
Innovation Solution
A clamp arrangement with a first and second clamp member, an attachment plate, and a lever that allows for easy removal and installation of accessories by pivoting between closed and open positions, using a fastener to secure the attachment plate to the power tool's output member, and featuring distinct mating geometries for different power tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional fasteners or wrenches are used to secure accessories, then the accessory can be firmly attached to the power tool, but the accessory swapping process becomes cumbersome and requires secondary tools
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp assembly is designed to be operated directly by the user's hand without requiring secondary tools. The first clamp member can be manually moved between closed and open positions to secure or release accessories, making the system self-servicing and eliminating the need for wrenches or screwdrivers.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp assembly incorporates movable components that transition between fixed and dynamic states. The first clamp member moves relative to the accessory between closed (secured) and open (released) positions, providing dynamic control over accessory attachment while maintaining firm holding when closed.
2Reliability
If a secure clamping mechanism is implemented, then the accessory is firmly retained, but the mechanism requires more space and complex structure
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp assembly is designed with nested components where the first clamp member operates within the space defined by the second clamp member and attachment plate. This nesting allows the mechanism to achieve secure clamping action while minimizing the overall volume occupied by the moving parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping function is divided into multiple segments: the first clamp member for manual operation, the second clamp member for structural support, and the attachment plate for mounting. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while contributing to compact overall design.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple accessory types are supported, then the power tool becomes more versatile, but the attachment system becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment plate incorporates multiple mating details that can selectively engage with different tool geometries. This universal design allows a single clamp assembly to support various accessory types and configurations without requiring separate specialized mechanisms for each application.
Solution Approach 2:
The mating details are designed with asymmetric geometries that provide unique engagement patterns for different tool types. This asymmetry ensures proper orientation and secure connection while accommodating versatility across multiple accessory configurations.
Data Source
AI summary
A clamp arrangement for securing an accessory to an oscillating power tool can include a clamp assembly including a first clamp member that moves relative to the accessory between a closed position wherein the clamp assembly retains the accessory and an open position wherein the first clamp is offset from the accessory permitting removal of the first accessory from the clamp assembly. The clamp assembly can further comprise a second clamp member having a first portion that opposes the first clamp member and cooperates with the first clamp member to clamp the accessory between the first and second clamp members. An attachment plate can carry the clamp assembly. The attachment plate can have a first mating detail formed thereon that is configured to selectively and removably mate with a complementary second mating detail on the power tool in an assembled position.