Power Tool Accessory Detection Using Passive Wireless Tags
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power tools face inefficiencies in determining whether an accessory, such as an auxiliary handle, is attached, particularly in dusty environments, where traditional detection methods may fail due to interference or require additional protection.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a passive wireless tag in the accessory that communicates with a reader via an antenna, allowing for non-contact, efficient attachment detection without the need for a power supply, and configuring the tag and reader to operate within specific frequency bands to ensure accurate attachment verification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a contact device or non-contact detection unit is used to detect accessory attachment, then detection capability is provided, but the system complexity increases and dust-proof measures are required
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a reader to detect the wireless tag in the accessory and provides feedback about attachment status. The controller receives this detection result and automatically adjusts power tool operation accordingly, creating a closed-loop feedback system that improves reliability without adding complex manual detection mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical contact detection devices with a wireless electromagnetic field-based detection system. The passive wireless tag and reader communicate via electromagnetic fields, eliminating the need for physical contact points that would require dust-proof measures, thereby reducing mechanical complexity while maintaining detection capability
2Device complexity
If a passive wireless tag is used in the accessory, then no power supply is needed in the accessory, but the reader must be positioned close to the tag for effective communication
Solution Approach 1:
The system operates at specific frequency bands (HF or LF) with optimized transmission parameters to achieve reliable communication at short distances. By carefully selecting and tuning the operating frequency and power levels, the system achieves effective power-free tagging at the required close proximity without needing complex power management in the accessory
Solution Approach 2:
The passive wireless tag harvests energy from the electromagnetic field generated by the reader's antenna to power its own communication circuitry. This self-service mechanism allows the tag to operate without an internal power supply, simplifying the accessory design while maintaining communication capability at close range
3Strength
If metal components are present in the accessory or tool body, then structural strength is provided, but metal interference affects wireless tag and antenna performance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces plastic portions as intermediary materials between the metal components and the wireless tag/antenna. These plastic covers or housings act as shielding intermediaries that prevent direct metal-to-tag or metal-to-antenna contact, thereby eliminating electromagnetic interference while preserving the structural strength provided by the metal components
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses thin plastic covers or housings to enclose or separate metal components from the wireless communication elements. These flexible or rigid plastic shells provide electromagnetic isolation without significantly affecting the mechanical strength of the overall structure, allowing metal to be used for strength while protecting wireless communication
4Ease of operation
If the communication distance is increased to allow for easier accessory attachment, then ease of operation improves, but the accuracy of determining attachment status deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces mechanical contact switches or proximity sensors with wireless electromagnetic field detection. This substitution allows the reader to detect the tag through non-contact means, maintaining high detection accuracy while allowing natural variation in attachment position and ease of operation without compromising measurement precision
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 enhances the accuracy and efficiency of determining accessory attachment, even in dusty conditions, by using radio waves to power the tag and reducing metal interference, thus improving operational reliability and user safety.
Implementation Method 1
the passive wireless tag can be powered by radio waves received from the reader of the power tool
Implementation Method 2
The wireless tag and the reader may be configured to communicate with each other using a frequency within short-wave (HF) bands or within long-wave (LF) bands
Data Source
AI summary
A power tool includes an accessory and a reader. The accessory is configured to be attachable to and detachable from the power tool. The accessory includes a passive wireless tag. The reader includes at least one antenna and a reading part. The reading part is electrically connected to the at least one antenna. The reading part is configured to wirelessly communicate with the wireless tag via the at least one antenna and to read information stored in the wireless tag when the accessory is attached to the power tool.