Power Tool User Interface Module With Integrated Work Light
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hand-held power tools lack an integrated and robust user interface that efficiently combines control elements with work area lighting, leading to complexity and potential vulnerabilities in design.
Innovation Solution
A compact and robust user interface is integrated into a single module, incorporating a control unit and work area lighting unit, featuring a control element, display element, and a light guide element, which are supported by a support element to ensure secure operation and optimal illumination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If control elements and lighting units are integrated into a single module, then device complexity is reduced and robustness is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the control unit and work area lighting unit into a single user interface module. The control element, display element, and light guide element are combined in one housing, reducing the overall device complexity and improving robustness by eliminating multiple separate components and their associated connections.
2Ease of operation
If a compact user interface module is designed, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability challenges increase due to integrated components
Solution Approach 1:
While integrating components, the patent maintains functional segmentation within the module. The control element, display element, and light guide element are positioned as distinct functional zones within the housing, allowing independent operation and failure isolation while maintaining compact form factor for ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing design includes protective structures and mounting features that pre-compensate for potential stress and misalignment. The support element for the light guide is specifically designed to absorb thermal expansion and mechanical stress, preventing reliability issues before they occur.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If control elements and lighting are combined in one module, then IP protection is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating all user interface components including control elements, display, and lighting into a single sealed housing, the patent achieves improved IP protection. This eliminates gaps and connection points between separate components where water and dust could penetrate, while the modular design keeps internal complexity manageable.
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
The integrated user interface provides efficient control and illumination, enhancing user interaction and tool functionality while maintaining a compact and durable design, with improved IP protection and reliable signal transmission.
Implementation Method 1
the work area lighting unit comprises at least one light source and at least one light guide element
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a hand-held power tool (100) comprising a drive unit (111) that can be actuated by means of at least one manual switch (128), a housing (110), and at least one user interface (200), the user interface (200) comprising at least one operating element (202). According to the invention, the user interface (200) comprises at least one illuminating unit (210) for illuminating working areas, said illuminating unit (210) comprising at least one illuminant (212) and at least one light-conducting element (214).