Power Tool Attachment Lock Structure for One-Direction Coupling

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing connecting structures for power tools and attachments, such as the one between an air duster and a nozzle, require complex maneuvers involving multiple directions, which complicates the attachment process and reduces operability.

Innovation Solution

A connecting structure with a lock mechanism that allows the attachment to be moved in a single direction for attachment, with the lock mechanism automatically engaging to secure the attachment in place, preventing movement in the opposite direction.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the attachment is moved in multiple directions for attachment, then the connection can be secured, but the operability and maneuverability are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection securityVSAvoidoperability

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The lock mechanism automatically engages when the attachment is moved in the first direction, without requiring the user to perform additional actions. The system serves itself by converting the attachment movement into automatic locking, eliminating the need for manual locking operations and improving ease of operation while maintaining connection security.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The lock mechanism is designed to engage in advance during the attachment process. As the attachment is moved in the first direction, the lock mechanism proactively engages to prevent movement in the second direction, rather than requiring a separate locking step after attachment is complete.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

2Ease of operation

If the lock mechanism automatically engages, then the attachment process is simplified, but the mechanism complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveattachment simplicityVSAvoidmechanism complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The lock mechanism is integrated with the attachment structure, merging the locking function into the attachment process itself. The lock mechanism shares components and space with the attachment interface, reducing overall system complexity despite adding automatic locking functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The lock mechanism serves multiple functions: it locks the attachment in place, guides the attachment during movement, and provides structural support. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, offsetting the added complexity with consolidated design benefits.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS12305683B2Connecting structure between power tool and attachment

Publication Date: 2025.05.20 MAKITA CORP

AI summary

A connecting structure between a power tool and an attachment includes a lock mechanism. The lock mechanism is configured to be actuated when the attachment is moved in a first direction relative to the power tool in response to an attaching operation being performed on the attachment by a user, and to lock the attachment in an attachment position to be immovable in a second direction opposite to the first direction when the attachment is placed in the attachment position relative to the power tool.