Ring-Shaped Lighting Module for Handheld Power Tool Workspace Illumination

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Solution Overview

Problem

Handheld power tools lack effective illumination of the tool component and workpiece interaction area, hindering precise manufacturing processes due to inadequate visibility.

Innovation Solution

A ring-shaped lighting module with adjustable light sources, including LEDs, is integrated into the handheld power tool, providing direct and multi-angled illumination while being transparent or translucent to minimize obstruction, and optionally incorporating a particle guiding surface for cleanliness.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Illumination intensity

If a lighting module with a ring-shaped main body and light sources is integrated close to the tool component, then illumination intensity and visibility of the workpiece interaction area is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevisibility of workpiece interaction areaVSAvoidstructure of handheld power tool
Core Design Contradiction:
Illumination intensityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The lighting module is integrated into the existing handheld power tool structure by combining it with the base plate or tool housing. The ring-shaped main body merges with the tool's structural elements, and the light sources are incorporated into existing mounting locations, thereby reducing overall device complexity while achieving improved illumination of the workpiece interaction area.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The ring-shaped main body of the lighting module serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for the light sources, acts as a mounting interface for integration with the handheld power tool, and potentially serves as a protective barrier or guide for particles. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby managing device complexity while maintaining illumination effectiveness.

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

2Loss of information

If the main body is made transparent or translucent to reduce obstruction, then visibility through the main body is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevisibility through main bodyVSAvoidmaterial selection and processing
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The main body is manufactured from materials with specific optical parameters (transparent or translucent properties) that allow light transmission while maintaining structural integrity. By selecting materials such as transparent plastics or translucent polymers, the design achieves visibility through the main body without requiring complex manufacturing processes, as these materials can be formed using standard injection molding or similar techniques.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Illumination intensity

If multiple light sources are disposed at different locations on the main body to illuminate from multiple angles, then illumination quality and shadow reduction is improved, but device complexity and energy consumption increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveillumination quality and shadow reductionVSAvoidnumber of light sources and mounting structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Illumination intensityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The illumination system is segmented into multiple discrete light sources positioned at different locations on the ring-shaped main body. Each light source independently illuminates a specific sector of the workpiece interaction area, collectively providing comprehensive coverage from multiple angles. This segmentation allows for targeted illumination while maintaining manageable device complexity through modular arrangement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Different regions of the workpiece interaction area receive tailored illumination from light sources positioned at optimal locations on the main body. Each light source is strategically placed to illuminate specific zones where shadows would otherwise form, creating locally optimized illumination quality across the entire workspace without requiring excessive numbers of light sources.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

4Illumination intensity

If the lighting module is integrated close to the tool component for direct illumination, then visibility of the tool component is improved, but the risk of obstruction by the main body increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevisibility of tool componentVSAvoidobstruction of illumination and view
Core Design Contradiction:
Illumination intensityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The main body of the lighting module is constructed as a thin, transparent or translucent structure that minimizes light obstruction while maintaining its structural function. This thin-film approach allows light to pass through the main body with minimal interference, enabling the lighting module to be positioned close to the tool component for direct illumination without significantly obstructing the view or light paths.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

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

Enhances visibility of the tool component and workpiece interaction area, improving precision and cleanliness by providing efficient and adjustable illumination without obstructing the view or hindering tool operation.

Implementation Method 1

the at least one light source comprises one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight Emitting Diode: Light Emitting Diode

Data Source

PatentEP4454824A1Lighting module for a handheld power tool, power module, lighting assembly, handheld power tool, and method for mounting a lighting module on a handheld power tool
Publication Date: 2024.10.30 FESTOOL GMBH
  • EP4454824A1 patent drawingFigure 1~4
  • EP4454824A1 patent drawingFigure 5~6
  • EP4454824A1 patent drawingFigure 7~8

AI summary

A lighting module (30) for a handheld power tool is disclosed. The lighting module (30) comprises a ring-shaped main body (34) forming a workspace (36) configured for disposing a tool component of the handheld power tool. The main body (34) is at least partially transparent or translucent and comprises at least one light source (38), wherein the at least one light source (38) is configured for illuminating the workspace (36). Also a power module (32) for supplying electricity to the lighting module (30) is presented. Moreover, a lighting assembly (28) for a handheld power tool is shown. The lighting assembly (28) comprises the lighting module (30) and the power module (32). Furthermore, a handheld power tool comprising a movable tool is explained. The handheld power tool comprises a base plate and an opening provided therein. A lighting module (30) is arranged on the base plate and the workspace (36) is positioned coaxially to the opening. Moreover, a method for mounting a lighting module (30) on a handheld power tool is described.