Power Tool Mode Switching Through Trigger and Selector Inputs

Solution Overview

Problem

Power tools require users to manipulate the tool to switch operating modes, which can be inconvenient and disrupt continuous operation.

Innovation Solution

A system that allows users to switch modes without physically altering the tool's position, using a motor controller to detect inputs from the forward-reverse selector and mode selection inputs within a predetermined time period to modify the tool's parameters, enabling mode changes through sequential or combined actuations of the selector and trigger.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a traditional mode selection mechanism is used, then the user can switch operating modes, but the user must manipulate the tool away from the operating position, disrupting continuous operation

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemode switching convenienceVSAvoidoperational continuity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the mode selection input with the trigger assembly, allowing the user to switch modes through the same hand operation used to control the tool's power. The trigger assembly serves dual functions: activating the motor and selecting operating modes, eliminating the need for separate mode selection manipulation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The trigger assembly is designed to perform multiple functions: it activates the motor controller and simultaneously serves as the mode selection input mechanism. By making the trigger assembly universal for both power control and mode selection, the patent eliminates the need for additional dedicated mode selection controls that would require separate manipulation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If a separate mode selection control is added, then mode switching capability is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemode selection capabilityVSAvoidcontrol mechanism complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The trigger assembly is designed to perform multiple functions: it activates the motor controller and simultaneously serves as the mode selection input mechanism. By making the trigger assembly universal for both power control and mode selection, the patent eliminates the need for additional dedicated mode selection controls that would require separate manipulation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines the mode selection input with the trigger assembly, allowing the user to switch modes through the same hand operation used to control the tool's power. The trigger assembly serves dual functions: activating the motor and selecting operating modes, eliminating the need for separate mode selection manipulation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS20240399556A1Mode selection of a power tool

Publication Date: 2024.12.05 MILWAUKEE ELECTRIC TOOL CORP

AI summary

Devices and methods described herein provide for controlling an operating mode of a power tool. Controlling the power tool includes operating, by a motor controller, a motor of the power tool in a first operating mode. Controlling the power tool also includes detecting, by the motor controller, a position of a forward-reverse selector of the power tool, and receiving, by the motor controller, a signal from a mode selector. Controlling the power tool also includes determining, by the motor controller, whether the position of the forward-reverse selector is in the mode selection position, and in response to determining that the forward-reverse selector is in the mode selection position, changing, by the motor controller, the power tool to a second operating mode based on the signal received from the mode selector.