Power Tool Distance Control for Precise Borehole Depth

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing machine tools for drilling cylindrical boreholes face inaccuracies in measuring and achieving the desired borehole depth, leading to problematic handling and precision issues.

Innovation Solution

A method for open-loop and closed-loop control of a power tool connected to at least one acquisition apparatus, which involves acquiring distance values using sensors, adjusting the power tool's operating modes based on these values, and transmitting signals to control the drilling process accurately.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If existing measurement apparatuses are used to measure borehole depth, then the measurement process is simple, but the measurement precision is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveborehole depth measurement accuracyVSAvoidmeasurement system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The measurement system is segmented into multiple independent distance sensors positioned at different locations on the power tool. Each sensor independently measures distance to the workpiece, and the control device processes these individual measurements to calculate precise borehole depth and detect tool orientation, thereby achieving high measurement precision through distributed sensing rather than a single complex apparatus

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The distance sensors serve multiple functions: they measure borehole depth by calculating distance changes, detect skewed tool orientation by comparing distance values from different positions, and provide feedback for closed-loop control. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate measurement apparatuses while achieving high measurement precision

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the power tool operates in a single mode, then the operation is simple, but the adaptability to different drilling conditions is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different drilling conditionsVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The power tool implements dynamic operation modes that automatically adjust drilling parameters based on real-time distance measurements. The control device transitions between different operating modes (e.g., normal drilling, depth approach, skewed position correction) depending on the measured distance values and calculated borehole depth, enabling adaptability to varying drilling conditions without manual intervention

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system establishes closed-loop control where distance sensors continuously measure the distance between the power tool and workpiece, the control device calculates borehole depth and compares it with the target depth, and the power tool automatically adjusts its operation based on this feedback. This feedback mechanism enables the system to adapt to different drilling conditions by dynamically modifying drilling parameters

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Productivity

If the power tool drilling speed is increased to improve productivity, then the productivity increases, but the manufacturing precision of borehole depth decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedrilling speedVSAvoidborehole depth precision
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The distance sensors continuously measure the distance between the power tool and workpiece throughout the drilling process, providing real-time data on borehole depth. This continuous measurement enables the system to maintain high drilling speeds while precisely tracking depth, as the feedback control can make immediate adjustments without interrupting the drilling action

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Solution Approach 2:

The closed-loop feedback system continuously monitors borehole depth through distance measurements and automatically adjusts drilling parameters to maintain precision even at high speeds. The control device processes real-time distance data and modulates the drilling operation accordingly, ensuring that productivity gains do not compromise manufacturing precision

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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 of borehole depth measurement and control, preventing skewed orientations of the power tool and allowing for precise adjustment of drilling parameters based on material characteristics and distance values.

Implementation Method 1

The at least one sensor of the acquisition apparatus can be based on a transit time measurement, for example an ultrasound measurement.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectUltrasound: Ultrasound

Implementation Method 2

The at least one sensor of the acquisition apparatus can be based on a transit time measurement, for example an ultrasound measurement.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectTransit time measurement: Time of Flight

Data Source

PatentUS20250153336A1Method for controlling a charging apparatus
Publication Date: 2025.05.15 HILTI AG
  • US20250153336A1 patent drawing
  • US20250153336A1 patent drawing
  • US20250153336A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Method for open-loop and closed-loop control of a power tool, wherein the power tool is connected to at least one acquisition apparatus, comprising the following method steps: acquisition of a first distance value by a sensor; inputting of at least one distance-of-travel value into the acquisition apparatus by an input device; adjustment of the power tool from a first operating mode having at least a first operating characteristic into a second operating mode having at least a second operating characteristic; acquisition of at least a second distance value within a predetermined period of time; transmission of at least one signal from the acquisition apparatus to the power tool in dependence on the acquired at least second distance value; and adjustment of the power tool from the second operating mode into a third operating mode having at least a third operating characteristic after a predetermined signal has been received.