Dual-Slot Power Tool Battery Switching for Single-Pack Operation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing power tools require two battery packs to function properly, failing to operate correctly with a single battery pack installed.

Innovation Solution

A power tool system with dual slots allowing operation at a rated voltage with either one or two battery packs by adjusting the connection state of battery groups within the power tool, using mechanical or electronic switches to ensure consistent voltage output.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If a single battery pack is installed, then the device complexity is reduced, but the power tool cannot work properly due to insufficient voltage

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebattery pack configurationVSAvoidpower tool operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic switching between series and parallel connection modes based on the number of installed battery packs. When one battery pack is installed, the system automatically configures series connection to provide sufficient voltage. When two battery packs are installed, it switches to parallel connection to extend operating time. This dynamic adaptability resolves the contradiction by making the system reliable across different configurations without requiring fixed complex wiring.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The invention changes the electrical connection parameters (series/parallel configuration) based on the detected battery pack installation state. The control system detects whether one or two battery packs are installed and automatically adjusts the connection mode accordingly, changing the electrical parameters to maintain proper operation. This parameter adaptation allows the power tool to work reliably with either single or dual battery packs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Duration of action of moving object

If two battery packs are installed, then the working time is extended, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveworking timeVSAvoidbattery pack configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
Duration of action of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically switches between series and parallel connection modes based on the number of installed battery packs. When two battery packs are installed, the system automatically configures parallel connection to extend operating time while maintaining simple user interaction. The dynamic switching mechanism handles the complexity internally, allowing extended working time without burdening the user with configuration complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The control system automatically detects the battery pack installation state and self-adjusts the connection configuration without user intervention. The system performs self-service by automatically determining whether to use series or parallel connection based on detected battery presence, eliminating the need for users to manually configure complex wiring arrangements while still providing extended working time when two packs are installed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Device complexity

If the connection state is fixed, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to different battery pack configurations is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection configurationVSAvoidbattery pack installation flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic connection configuration that automatically adapts to different battery pack installation states. The system transitions from fixed wiring to dynamic switching between series and parallel modes based on detected battery presence. This dynamic approach maintains simple fixed wiring physically while achieving adaptability through automated switching controlled by detection circuits and control logic.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The invention changes electrical connection parameters (series/parallel configuration) based on detected battery pack installation state. The control system detects whether one or two battery packs are installed and automatically adjusts the connection mode accordingly, transforming the system from fixed parameter configuration to adaptive parameter changing, thereby achieving versatility without increasing physical wiring complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS12542305B2Power tool and power tool system
Publication Date: 2026.02.03 GLOBE (JIANGSU) CO LTD
  • US12542305B2 patent drawing
  • US12542305B2 patent drawing
  • US12542305B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The disclosure provides a power tool and power tool system, including: a first slot and a second slot; when the power tool is in a double-pack working state, battery packs are respectively arranged in the first slot and the second lot; when the power tool is in a single-pack working state, the battery pack is arranged in the first slot or the second slot, and both the double-pack working state and the single-pack working state provides a same rated voltage to the power tool.