Power Tool Lay-On Detection for Reliable Operating State Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric tools lack a simple and reliable method to determine their operating state, particularly in regards to whether they are properly laid on an underlay, which is crucial for safe and efficient operation.
Innovation Solution
The electric tool incorporates a lay-on detection device that includes a contact switch and a lay-on detection section, allowing it to detect two distinct lay-on states and determine its operating state based on these detections, without relying on distance recognition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If distance recognition is used to detect lay-on state, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex optical or electronic distance recognition systems with a simple mechanical contact switch. The contact switch detects lay-on state through direct mechanical contact with the workpiece, eliminating the need for sophisticated sensors and processing systems while maintaining reliable detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention employs a simple, inexpensive contact switch that can be easily replaced if needed, rather than investing in expensive, complex distance recognition systems. This approach prioritizes simplicity and cost-effectiveness over high-precision measurement capabilities.
2Device complexity
If contact switch is used to detect lay-on state, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision may be insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a lay-on detection section as an intermediary element that contacts the workpiece and transmits this contact information to the control unit. This intermediary mechanism bridges the simple contact switch with the control system, enabling accurate lay-on state detection without requiring complex direct sensing.
Solution Approach 2:
The contact switch provides immediate feedback to the control unit about the lay-on state. When the lay-on detection section contacts the workpiece, the contact switch closes the electrical circuit, sending a signal to the control unit that confirms proper positioning. This feedback mechanism ensures reliable detection despite the simplicity of the contact switch.
3Reliability
If lay-on detection device is added, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the lay-on detection function with existing structural elements of the electric tool. The lay-on detection section is integrated into the tool housing or base, and the contact switch is incorporated into the existing control circuitry. This merging approach adds detection capability without creating separate, independent systems that would significantly increase overall complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit is designed to handle multiple functions including motor control, safety monitoring, and lay-on state detection. By making the control unit universal and multi-functional, the patent avoids adding separate dedicated circuits for each function, thereby improving reliability through comprehensive monitoring while minimizing increases in device complexity.
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 enables the electric tool to accurately determine its operating state, including error states like kickback, by simply detecting whether it is laid on the underlay, thereby enhancing safety and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
the detection of the first and/or second lay-on state is effected by way of a contact switch, in particular a mechanical switch, which can be actuated by the underlay
Data Source
AI summary
A power tool, in particular a hand-held power tool, including a support section for setting down the power tool on a substrate, in particular on a workpiece and/or a guide element. The power tool has a support detection device and is designed to detect, by the support detection device, a first support state, in which the power tool is supported on the substrate by way of at least one first region of the support surface, and/or a second support state, in which the power tool is not resting on the substrate by way of at least the first region, and to determine an operating state of the power tool on the basis of the detected support state.