Power Tool Trigger Switch Layout to Prevent High-Current Sparking

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Solution Overview

Problem

Power tools with high current requirements face issues of switch contact deformation and failure due to sparking, leading to safety hazards and operational inaccuracies.

Innovation Solution

A power tool design incorporating a current switch and signal switch actuated by a trigger mechanism, with copper sheets for parallel connection to prevent sparking and a power storage element for filtering, ensuring reliable and safe operation under high current conditions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Power

If a high-current switch is used to carry large working current, then the power tool can operate with high current, but the switch contacts are prone to sparking leading to deformation or failure

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveworking currentVSAvoidswitch control reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the high-current switching function into two separate switches: a first switch (current switch) that handles the high-current main circuit, and a second switch (signal switch) that handles the control signal circuit. This segmentation allows each switch to be optimized for its specific function, with the current switch designed to withstand high currents and the signal switch designed for precise control, thereby preventing contact sparking and failure in the high-current path.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of operation

If the trigger mechanism directly actuates the current switch, then the operation is simple, but the control accuracy is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperation simplicityVSAvoidcontrol accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a signal switch as an intermediary between the trigger mechanism and the control system. The trigger mechanism actuates the signal switch, which then generates a control signal to activate the current switch. This intermediary layer enables more precise control by allowing the system to distinguish between different operational states and to control the timing and duration of current flow more accurately.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Use of energy by moving object

If the power storage element is charged immediately when the current switch turns on, then the power supply is efficient, but the switch contacts experience sparking and deformation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower supply efficiencyVSAvoidswitch contact sparking
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a preliminary action by controlling the charging of the power storage element to occur after a predetermined time period following the activation of the current switch. This delay allows the current switch contacts to fully close and establish a stable connection before the high charging current is applied, preventing sparking and deformation. The system prepares in advance by maintaining efficiency while avoiding harmful effects through timing control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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

The design effectively prevents switch contact sparking and deformation, enhancing the reliability and safety of power tool operation by managing high currents and improving switch control accuracy.

Implementation Method 1

after the current switch is turned on, charging the power storage element after delaying a predetermined time period

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCapacitance: Capacitance

Implementation Method 2

copper sheets for parallel connection to prevent sparking

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical conduction: Conduction (electrical)

Data Source

PatentUS12059737B2Power tool and method for starting the same
Publication Date: 2024.08.13 NANJING CHERVON IND
  • US12059737B2 patent drawing
  • US12059737B2 patent drawing
  • US12059737B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A power tool includes a tool accessory, a motor, a control module, a power supply, and an operating switch. The operating switch includes a trigger mechanism, a current switch coupled to the trigger mechanism to be actuated by the trigger mechanism for connecting and disconnecting the electrical connection between the power supply module and the motor, and a signal switch coupled to the trigger mechanism to be actuated by the trigger mechanism at least configured to output a control signal to the control module to control the start of the motor.