Handheld Power Tool Voltage Source for Engine Control Unit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hand-guided power tools with internal combustion engines started by rope starters face insufficient voltage supply for the engine control unit and ignition during the starting phase, requiring frequent battery exchange and maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that generate and store electric energy using electro-dynamic or photovoltaic means, such as hand-operated dynamos, solar cells, or piezo elements, to supply the engine control unit and ignition circuit before engine start, utilizing a rechargeable energy storage device like capacitors or batteries.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a battery is used to provide power during starting phase, then the engine control unit and ignition can function immediately, but the battery requires frequent exchange and regular charging
Solution Approach 1:
The system generates its own charging energy through the rope starter mechanism itself. During the starting process, the generator is driven by the crankshaft to produce electricity that automatically charges the energy storage device, eliminating the need for external charging and reducing maintenance requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static battery that requires periodic replacement to a dynamic energy storage system that is continuously recharged during operation. The energy storage device capacity is adjusted based on the number of rope starter pulls, creating a flexible power supply that adapts to usage patterns
2Reliability
If a battery is installed for starting phase power supply, then the engine control unit receives sufficient voltage, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system combines the starting mechanism and power generation into a single integrated system. The rope starter not only cranks the engine but also drives the generator to charge the energy storage device, merging two functions into one mechanical action and reducing overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The generator serves multiple functions: it drives the crankshaft during starting and simultaneously charges the energy storage device. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate charging systems and reduces the overall component count
3Reliability
If components for energy generation and storage are added, then independent energy supply is achieved, but the space occupied increases
Solution Approach 1:
The energy storage device is integrated into the existing engine structure, with components nested within available spaces. The generator, energy storage device, and control units are arranged to utilize the compact engine bay space efficiently, minimizing the overall volume increase
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
Enables independent energy generation and storage within the power tool, reducing maintenance needs and ensuring reliable starting with stored energy for multiple ignitions, while components occupy minimal space.
Implementation Method 1
the voltage source generates electric energy electro-dynamically or photovoltaically
Implementation Method 2
the voltage source generates electric energy electro-dynamically or photovoltaically
Implementation Method 3
hand-operated dynamos, solar cells, or piezo elements
Data Source
AI summary
In a method for providing in a hand-held power tool electric energy for an engine control unit before start of an internal combustion engine of the power tool that is to be started by a rope starter, a voltage source is provided that generates electric energy electro-dynamically or photovoltaically before starting the internal combustion engine. The thus generated electric energy is stored in a rechargeable energy storage device arranged within the power tool. The electric energy stored in the energy storage device is supplied to the engine control unit upon first rope starter pull for start of the internal combustion engine. The device for performing the method has an electro-dynamic or photovoltaic voltage source and an energy storage device electrically conductingly connected to the voltage source, wherein the energy storage device has an output that is electrically conductingly connected to the engine control unit.