Power Tool Interface for External Diagnostic Data Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Service technicians face difficulties in accessing and modifying operating data of internal combustion engines in portable hand-held power tools, limiting their ability to diagnose issues and perform maintenance efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A bidirectional interface is provided to access the central control unit externally, allowing for data retrieval and writing, including ignition timing adjustments and software updates, using existing components like the short-circuit line or induction coil for data transmission, enabling external interaction without opening the tool housing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If a data interface is added to access the central control unit, then serviceability and diagnostic capability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by enabling the existing short-circuit line to serve dual purposes: its original function for stopping the engine and an additional function as a data transmission interface. This allows service technicians to access operating data and modify control unit parameters without adding a separate dedicated interface, thereby improving serviceability while avoiding increased device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service diagnostics and data retrieval by using the data storage device that automatically records operating parameters during normal operation. The control unit itself provides the data without requiring external diagnostic equipment to query sensors directly, making the system self-sufficient for basic diagnostic functions
2Loss of information
If the tool housing is opened to access the control unit, then data access is possible, but loss of time and increased complexity occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the data access function from the physical control unit interior by enabling external access through the wall-mounted plug contact. Service technicians can retrieve operating data and modify parameters without opening the tool housing, saving time and maintaining the sealed integrity of the engine compartment while still accessing all necessary diagnostic information
3Device complexity
If existing components are used for data transmission, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability of data transfer may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a receiver device as an intermediary between the external world and the control unit's data storage device. The receiver communicates with the control unit through the short-circuit line interface, mediating data transmission and ensuring reliable communication without requiring direct connection between external diagnostic tools and the control unit internals
Solution Approach 2:
The short-circuit line is designed to maintain its original reliability for engine stopping function while simultaneously serving as a stable data transmission medium. The dual-function design ensures that the data transmission pathway uses proven, reliable components rather than untested new interfaces, maintaining transmission stability
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 allows for seamless data access and modification without constructive changes to the tool, enabling efficient error analysis and maintenance while maintaining the power tool's functionality during data transfer.
Implementation Method 1
couple the receiver outside of the tool housing without mechanical contact to the interface, for example, by means of an alternating electromagnetic field. Particularly suitable for this purpose is the induction coil of the generator
Data Source
AI summary
A power tool has a drive unit arranged in a tool housing. The drive unit has an internal combustion engine with a cylinder provided with a combustion chamber. A spark plug is arranged at the cylinder. A piston is connected to a crankshaft and reciprocates within the cylinder and delimits the combustion chamber. A central control unit controls the drive unit and has a microprocessor and an ignition control unit, wherein the central control unit is connected by the ignition control unit to the spark plug and triggers a spark at the spark plug as a function of a rotary speed of the crankshaft at an appropriate ignition timing. A data storage device is connected to the central control unit. An energy supply unit provides electric energy. An interface enables, from outside the tool housing, external data access to data of the central control unit.