Power Tool UI With Orthogonal Inputs for Motor Speed and Direction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power tools lack efficient mechanisms for controlling motor operational characteristics, such as speed and direction, using user input devices that provide precise and orthogonal movements.
Innovation Solution
The power tool incorporates a housing with a motor, a first user input device that moves along a first axis to distinct positions, a second user input device that moves along a second orthogonal axis, a controller, and a circuit board with sensors to control motor operations based on user input.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple sensors are placed on a single circuit board to detect user input device positions, then the control precision of motor operational characteristics is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the sensing function into two separate circuit boards: a first circuit board with a first sensor for detecting the first user input device position, and a second circuit board with a second sensor for detecting the second user input device position. This segmentation reduces the complexity of individual circuit boards while maintaining overall detection precision through coordinated operation of multiple sensors.
2Adaptability or versatility
If orthogonal movement axes are implemented for user input devices, then the control versatility of motor operations is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements orthogonal movement axes by providing a first user input device movable along a first axis and a second user input device movable along a second axis perpendicular to the first axis. This dimensional arrangement enables independent control of different motor operational characteristics (e.g., speed and direction) without increasing the complexity of individual input device mechanisms.
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
This configuration allows for precise control of motor speed and direction, enhancing user interaction and operational flexibility in power tools.
Implementation Method 1
The first sensor is configured to sense a plurality of distinct positions of the first user input device
Implementation Method 2
The second sensor is configured to sense a displacement along the second axis of the second user input device
Data Source
AI summary
A power tool includes a housing, a motor, a first user input device, a second user input device, a controller, and a circuit board. The motor is disposed at least partially within the housing. The first input device is partially disposed within the housing and is configured to move along a first axis. The second input device is also partially disposed within the housing and is configured to move along a second axis orthogonal to the first axis. The controller is configured to control an operational characteristic of the motor. The circuit board is connected to the controller. The circuit board includes a first sensor and a second sensor on a first side of the circuit board. The first sensor is configured to sense a plurality of distinct positions of the first user input device. The second sensor is configured to sense a displacement along the second axis.