Power Tool Locking Unit Electronics Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing machine tool devices for hand-held power tools, such as rotary and chisel hammers, face challenges in efficiently controlling and regulating drive units due to complex mechanics between locking and signal switching elements, leading to mechanical load and cost inefficiencies.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating an electronics unit that evaluates position parameters of locking and signal switching elements to control and regulate drive units, eliminating the need for complex mechanics by using electrical signals to manage locking and operating modes, and integrating a bistable locking mechanism for safe and durable operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If complex mechanics are used between locking and signal switching elements, then locking function is achieved, but mechanical load increases and durability decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovedurabilityVSAvoidcomplex mechanics
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex mechanical locking mechanisms with an electronic control system. The electronics unit receives signals from the signal switching element and locking actuation element, then electronically controls the drive unit's operation and locking state, eliminating the need for complex mechanical linkages between these components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The electronics unit serves as an intermediary between the signal switching element, locking actuation element, and drive unit. It processes signals from the switching elements and translates them into appropriate control actions for the drive unit, decoupling the mechanical components from direct mechanical interdependence.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If complex mechanics are used between locking and signal switching elements, then locking function is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocking functionVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex mechanical locking mechanisms with an electronic control system. The electronics unit receives signals from the signal switching element and locking actuation element, then electronically controls the drive unit's operation and locking state, eliminating the need for complex mechanical linkages between these components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Volume of moving object

If locking actuation element is integrated with signal switching element, then space is saved, but ease of operation decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovespaceVSAvoidease of operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the control interface into separate functional elements: the signal switching element for activating the drive unit and the locking actuation element for locking the signal switching element. While physically integrated on the housing, these are distinct operational components that can be independently actuated, maintaining ease of operation while saving space.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentEP3735338B1Power tool device
Publication Date: 2023.05.03 ROBERT BOSCH GMBH
  • EP3735338B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3735338B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3735338B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention proceeds from a power tool device, in particular for portable power tools, having at least one signal switching unit (12) that has at least one signal switching element (14) that is actuable at least in order to activate a drive unit (16) of the power tool (18), having at least one operating mode selection unit (20) that has at least one operating mode selection element (22) that is actuable in order to select an operating mode of the drive unit (16), and having at least one locking unit (24) that has at least one locking actuating element (26) at least for locking the signal switching element (14). It is proposed that the power tool device (10) comprise at least one electronic unit (28) that is provided for controlling and/or regulating the drive unit (16) at least depending on an evaluation of a setting parameter of the locking actuating element (26).