Power Tool Light Ring Illumination and Environmental Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Power tools often operate in adverse environmental conditions with inadequate lighting, making it difficult for users to see the workpiece, and existing lighting solutions are not adequately protected from these conditions.
Innovation Solution
A power tool with a light ring configured to shine light onto the workpiece, utilizing light emitting diodes (LEDs) powered by the same power source as the tool, and protected by a cover and retaining ring to prevent damage from environmental factors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If a lighting device is mounted on the power tool to illuminate the workpiece, then the illumination of the workpiece is improved, but the lighting components are exposed to adverse environmental conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting device is nested within the housing structure of the power tool, with the light source positioned inside a protected cavity. The lens is mounted in an opening that allows light transmission while the housing walls provide environmental protection. This nesting arrangement allows the lighting function to be integrated into the tool while benefiting from the housing's protective enclosure.
Solution Approach 2:
A clear protective cover or lens material is used to enclose the light source while allowing light transmission. This thin film or shell structure provides protection from environmental factors such as dust and moisture while maintaining the illumination function. The cover acts as a barrier that separates the vulnerable light source from adverse environmental conditions.
2Ease of operation
If wiring is provided inside the housing to connect the lighting device to the power source, then the lighting device can be powered, but the wires are exposed to damage from movement and environmental factors
Solution Approach 1:
The wiring is routed through protected pathways within the housing structure before reaching the lighting device. The housing walls and internal structures serve as pre-established protective channels that cushion and protect the wires from mechanical damage, vibration, and environmental exposure. This beforehand protection ensures wire integrity throughout the tool's operation.
3Illumination intensity
If the light source is positioned close to the workpiece for effective illumination, then the illumination intensity is improved, but the light source is more vulnerable to environmental damage
Solution Approach 1:
The light source is nested within a protected housing structure that extends toward the workpiece. The housing provides a protective tunnel or pathway that allows the light to travel close to the workpiece while the surrounding housing walls shield the light source from environmental contaminants, moisture, and physical damage.
Solution Approach 2:
A protective lens or cover is positioned at the light exit point near the workpiece, providing a barrier that protects the light source while allowing effective illumination. This shell structure enables the light to be positioned close to the workpiece for intense illumination while maintaining protection from environmental factors.
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
Provides effective illumination of the workpiece in various conditions while protecting the lighting components from environmental hazards, enhancing user visibility and tool durability.
Implementation Method 1
A power tool with a light ring configured to shine light onto a workpiece, utilizing light emitting diodes (LEDs)
Data Source
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AI summary
A power tool having a light for illuminating an area proximate a movable end effector. The light may be mounted in such a way as to transmit light through a rotatable collar on the power tool, through or through a member of a housing of the power tool, or from the moving end effector. The light may be powered by a power source that is used for moving the end effector or from a generator that generates electrical power when the power tool is used.