Power Tool Battery Interface With Tool ID and Auto Shutoff
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Solution Overview
Problem
Power tools require varying power inputs based on their type and size, and existing systems struggle to efficiently adapt power supply to match these requirements without user intervention or additional hardware.
Innovation Solution
A power supply system with an electronic control unit that identifies the connected power tool through an identifier, adjusting power output based on the tool's characteristics, and includes an auto-shutoff mechanism to prevent inefficient operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed power output is supplied to all power tools, then the power supply system is simple, but it cannot meet the varying power requirements of different tool types and sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary identification of the power tool type through an identifier (such as a sensor, code, or communication protocol) before power delivery. The electronic control unit reads the identifier to determine tool characteristics in advance, then pre-configures the appropriate power output parameters, eliminating the need for complex real-time adjustments during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The power supply system dynamically adjusts its output characteristics based on the identified tool type. The electronic control unit modifies voltage, current, or power delivery parameters in real-time according to the specific tool requirements, enabling a single power supply to adapt to multiple tool types without hardware changes.
2Extent of automation
If manual power level selection is required for different tools, then the power supply can be precise, but user intervention and additional hardware are needed
Solution Approach 1:
The power tool itself provides identification information through an integrated identifier (such as a sensor, RFID tag, or communication interface). The electronic control unit automatically reads this identifier and determines the appropriate power settings without requiring user input or external configuration, enabling the system to self-configure for the connected tool.
Solution Approach 2:
The system establishes a feedback loop where the identifier on the power tool communicates its characteristics to the electronic control unit. The control unit processes this feedback information and automatically adjusts power delivery parameters accordingly, creating a closed-loop system that adapts to tool requirements without manual intervention.
3Loss of energy
If power is continuously supplied to the power tool, then the tool can operate without interruption, but energy is wasted during inefficient operation
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces mechanical or manual monitoring of tool performance with electronic sensing and control. Sensors monitor operational parameters such as current draw, temperature, or load conditions, and the electronic control unit processes this data to detect inefficient operation states, automatically shutting off power when thresholds are exceeded without mechanical switches or manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
An electronic control unit acts as an intermediary between the power source and the power tool motor. This intermediary monitors operational conditions through sensors and communication interfaces, and intelligently controls power delivery by switching between active power supply and shutdown states based on real-time performance metrics, preventing energy waste while maintaining continuous operation capability.
Data Source
AI summary
A power supply configured to supply electrical power to a connected power tool having a motor and an identifier representative of a characteristic of the connected power tool. The power supply includes a housing with a battery receptacle configured to receive a battery pack and an electronic unit position within the housing. The electronic control unit can interface with the identifier to determine the characteristic of the connected power tool and, in response to the determined characteristic, supply electrical power from the battery pack to the motor at an associated power output.