Parallel-Axis Router Layout for Precise Belt Torque Transfer

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing power tools lack ergonomic design and efficient torque transmission, leading to reduced precision and increased operational force required for guiding, especially in routing and groove-cutting applications.

Innovation Solution

A power tool design featuring a coaxial motor axis and output axis arranged parallel and at a specific distance, utilizing a belt drive for torque transmission, and incorporating an ergonomic hand-rest surface with adjustable elements and safety switches for enhanced usability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Power

If a conventional motor and output shaft arrangement is used, then the device structure is simple, but the torque transmission efficiency is reduced and operational force is increased

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetorque transmission efficiencyVSAvoiddevice structure
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from a conventional coaxial motor-output shaft arrangement to a parallel axis arrangement where the motor axis and output axis are separated by a specific distance (50-80mm). This dimensional change enables more efficient torque transmission through the belt drive system while maintaining structural compactness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

A belt drive system is introduced as an intermediary mechanism between the motor shaft and output shaft. This intermediary enables efficient torque transmission across the parallel axes while allowing for flexible adjustment and maintaining a compact overall structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Power

If the motor axis and output axis are arranged coaxially, then the device structure is compact, but the torque transmission precision and operational control are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetorque transmission precisionVSAvoiddevice volume
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent adopts a parallel axis configuration instead of coaxial arrangement, positioning the motor axis and output axis parallel to each other at a controlled distance. This enables precise torque transmission through the belt drive while maintaining a compact footprint through optimized spacing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent specifies optimal distance parameters between the parallel axes (50-80mm, preferably 65mm) to achieve the best balance between torque transmission precision and device compactness. This parameter optimization ensures efficient power transfer while keeping the device volume minimal.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Ease of operation

If the hand-rest surface is positioned away from the output axis, then the operator comfort is improved, but the guiding precision and operational control are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperator comfortVSAvoidguiding precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent positions the hand-rest surface asymmetrically on the first housing, specifically arranged to be intersected by the output axis. This asymmetric positioning allows the operator's hand to be comfortably positioned over the output axis, simultaneously achieving ergonomic comfort and precise guiding control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

Solution Approach 2:

The hand-rest surface is positioned such that it creates an equipotential position for the operator's hand relative to the output axis, allowing natural hand placement that maintains both comfort and precision. The output axis passes through the hand-rest surface, creating an optimal operational position.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #12Equipotentiality

4Measurement precision

If adjusting elements are arranged outside the space between motor shaft and output shaft, then the adjustment mechanism is simple, but the routing depth adjustment precision is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverouting depth adjustment precisionVSAvoidadjustment mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The adjusting elements are positioned in the space between the motor shaft and output shaft, utilizing the available volume efficiently. This positioning enables precise routing depth adjustment through coarse and fine adjustment mechanisms without adding external complexity to the device structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The adjusting elements are nested within the existing structure between the motor shaft and output shaft, with coarse and fine adjustment mechanisms arranged in a compact configuration. This nesting approach achieves precise multi-stage adjustment while maintaining a simple overall device structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

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 design achieves a compact, ergonomic, and precise power tool with reduced operational force and improved handling, enabling efficient routing and groove-cutting with adaptable torque transmission and enhanced safety features.

Implementation Method 1

the transmission of torque from the electromotive drive to the output shaft is effected via a belt drive

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS11440213B2Power tool having at least one motor axis and one output axis
Publication Date: 2022.09.13 ROBERT BOSCH GMBH
  • US11440213B2 patent drawing
  • US11440213B2 patent drawing
  • US11440213B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A power tool, in particular a router, includes a motor shaft, at least one output shaft defining an output axis that is coaxial with the output shaft, and at least one electromotive drive acting on the motor shaft. The motor shaft defines a motor axis with the electromotive drive which is coaxial with the motor shaft. The motor axis and the output axis are arranged substantially parallel to and at a distance from one another.