Multi-Part Polishing Pad with Segmented Rigidities for Hand-Held Power Tools

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional polishing pads require frequent exchange to switch between different polishing actions, such as cutting and finishing, which is cumbersome and time-consuming, and lacks a flexible and safe connection mechanism.

Innovation Solution

A hand-held power tool with a multi-part polishing pad featuring two pieces with distinct characteristics, such as different rigidities or materials, that can be easily switched by varying pressure, allowing for both intense cutting and soft finishing actions without pad exchange, using a hook-and-loop attachment system for secure and easy connection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional polishing pads are used for different polishing actions, then multiple pads are required, but this increases device complexity and loss of time due to frequent exchange

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepolishing action versatilityVSAvoidpad exchange time

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The polishing pad is divided into multiple segments with different characteristics (e.g., different rigidities, materials, or cell structures) that can be independently selected or activated. This segmentation allows the single pad to provide multiple polishing actions without requiring exchange of entire pads, thereby reducing time loss while maintaining versatility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The polishing pad is designed as a universal component that can perform multiple polishing functions (cutting, finishing, etc.) through different regions or configurations within the same pad structure. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for multiple separate pads, reducing both device complexity and the time required to switch between polishing actions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If conventional polishing pads are used for different polishing actions, then multiple pads are required, but this increases device complexity

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepolishing action versatilityVSAvoidpad system complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple polishing functionalities that would traditionally require separate pads are merged into a single polishing pad structure. Different regions of the pad contain different materials or structures (e.g., hard/soft regions, open-cell/closed-cell foam regions) that can be used for different polishing actions, thereby reducing the number of separate components and simplifying the overall system.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Manufacturing precision

If polishing pads with different rigidities are used, then cutting and finishing actions can be optimized, but frequent pad exchange reduces productivity

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepolishing surface qualityVSAvoidsurface working efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The polishing pad is segmented into regions with different rigidities or material properties, allowing the user to select different regions for cutting or finishing actions without changing the entire pad. This maintains manufacturing precision for different polishing stages while avoiding the productivity loss associated with frequent pad exchanges.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The polishing pad incorporates dynamic characteristics that allow it to adapt between cutting and finishing modes. For example, the pad may have regions with different foam densities or fiber structures that can be selectively engaged by adjusting polishing parameters, enabling transitions between aggressive cutting and fine finishing without pad replacement, thereby maintaining both surface quality and productivity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

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

Enables seamless transition between polishing actions by adjusting pressure, extending the tool's versatility and reducing operational time, while ensuring secure attachment and easy replacement of worn parts.

Implementation Method 1

The top surface of each of the separate pieces has attachment means for detachably attaching the part to the bottom surface of the backing pad

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectHook-and-loop attachment: Mechanical Fastener

Data Source

PatentEP3421180B1Polishing pad of a hand-held power tool and power tool with such a polishing pad

Publication Date: 2023.07.12 VALENTINI GUIDO

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AI summary

The invention refers to a polishing pad (11) adapted for being detachably attached to a bottom surface (9a) of a plate-like backing pad (9) of a hand-held power tool (1). The backing pad (9) is actuated by an electric or pneumatic motor of the hand-held power tool (1), in order to perform a purely rotating, a random orbital or a roto-orbital working movement. The polishing pad (11) comprises a bottom working surface (11b) facing a workpiece to be polished during intended use of the power tool (1). It is suggested that the bottom working surface (11b) has at least two pieces (12, 13) of polishing material with different characteristics. A bottom working surface (13b) of at least one of the pieces (13) of the polishing pad (11) having a first characteristic extends beyond a bottom working surface (12b) of at least another of the pieces (12) of the polishing pad (11) having a different second characteristic.