Reciprocating Saw Blade Clamp Keyless Actuation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing reciprocating saws often require specialized tools like allen wrenches or keys for blade replacement and securing, which can be inconvenient and limit the versatility of blade mounting systems.

Innovation Solution

A keyless blade clamp system with pivotable actuators and movable locking members that allow for easy engagement and disengagement of saw blades without the need for tools, enabling secure coupling and removal of blades with different dimensions and features.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a tool-based blade mounting system (allen wrench or special key) is used, then the blade can be securely coupled to the spindle, but the blade replacement process becomes inconvenient and requires additional tools

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveblade coupling securityVSAvoidblade replacement convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The invention extracts and eliminates the need for external tools (allen wrenches or special keys) by integrating the locking function directly into the blade clamp mechanism. The locking members are built into the clamp assembly, allowing users to secure blades using only the hands, thus removing the dependency on separate tools while maintaining secure coupling.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The blade clamp mechanism is designed to be self-sufficient, with integrated locking members that perform the securing function without requiring external assistance. The actuator and locking members work together as a self-contained system that can independently engage and secure the blade to the spindle, making the tool unnecessary.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Ease of operation

If a keyless blade clamp is used, then blade replacement becomes tool-free and convenient, but the secure coupling of the blade to the spindle may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveblade replacement convenienceVSAvoidblade coupling security
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The blade clamp is divided into functional segments: an actuator for operation, locking members for security, and a clamping mechanism for retention. This segmentation allows each component to specialize in its function, with locking members specifically designed to engage with the blade and provide secure coupling through positive engagement features.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The locking members are designed with curved or rounded engagement surfaces that conform to the blade geometry, enabling smooth engagement and secure locking. The curved surfaces allow for gradual engagement and distribution of forces, ensuring reliable coupling while maintaining ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

3Device complexity

If a single locking member is used in the blade clamp, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to different blade types and dimensions is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveblade clamp structureVSAvoidcompatibility with different blade types
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The blade clamp incorporates multiple locking members that can engage with various blade configurations. Each locking member can independently adapt to different blade dimensions and features, allowing the same clamp mechanism to securely hold diverse blade types without requiring modification or additional components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The locking members are designed with movable and adjustable characteristics, allowing them to dynamically adapt to different blade geometries. The actuators can position the locking members to match various blade thicknesses and profiles, providing versatility while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS9156097B2Reciprocating saw blade clamp
Publication Date: 2015.10.13 MILWAUKEE ELECTRIC TOOL CORP
  • US9156097B2 patent drawing
  • US9156097B2 patent drawing
  • US9156097B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A reciprocating saw that includes a spindle including a blade slot configured to receive a saw blade. The saw further includes a blade clamp operable to removably couple the saw blade to the spindle, and the blade clamp includes a first actuator pivotable about the spindle between a locked position and an unlocked position, and a first locking member movable relative to the blade slot between an engaged position and a disengaged position in response to movement of the first actuator between the locked position and the unlocked position. The blade clamp further includes a second actuator pivotable about the spindle between a locked position and an unlocked position, and a second locking member movable relative to the blade slot between an engaged position and a disengaged position in response to movement of the second actuator between the locked position and the unlocked position.