Rotatable Power Tool Head with Integrated Gear Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power tools with rotatable working heads, such as hedge trimmers, have complex and costly angle-adjusting structures that are inconvenient for users to operate, especially when dealing with tall trees, as they require users to hold a latch in one hand and rotate the power head with another, which can be cumbersome due to the weight and complexity of the mechanism.
Innovation Solution
A power tool design featuring a working head mounted on a first shaft that can be rotated about its axis, with a gripping part and an adjusting mechanism comprising a first and second transmission element, such as conical gears, allowing for angular adjustment by rotating the gripping part, and a locking mechanism to secure the position, simplifying the structure and operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a hedge trimmer with an extension pole and rotatable power head is designed to trim tall trees, then the ability to trim top and bottom surfaces is improved, but the angle adjusting structure becomes complicated and manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The angle adjusting mechanism is divided into independent modular components: a movable support structure with guide rails, adjustable angle stops at different positions, and a separate locking mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, simplifying the overall structure while maintaining the ability to trim top and bottom surfaces of tall trees
Solution Approach 2:
The power head is designed with a movable support that can dynamically adjust between multiple fixed angular positions rather than being continuously adjustable. The guide rails and angle stops create discrete positioning options, making the structure simpler while still providing the versatility needed for different trimming scenarios
2Adaptability or versatility
If a hedge trimmer with an extension pole and rotatable power head is designed to trim tall trees, then the ability to trim top and bottom surfaces is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The angle adjusting mechanism is divided into independent modular components: a movable support structure with guide rails, adjustable angle stops at different positions, and a separate locking mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, simplifying the overall structure while maintaining the ability to trim top and bottom surfaces of tall trees
Solution Approach 2:
The angle stops are designed as simple, inexpensive components that can be easily manufactured and replaced if needed. Rather than using complex mechanical systems, the patent employs straightforward positioning elements that reduce manufacturing costs while achieving the desired functionality
3Power
If the power head is made heavy with motor and transmission components, then the trimming function is effective, but it becomes difficult for the user to rotate the power head with one hand
Solution Approach 1:
The movable support structure acts as an intermediary between the heavy power head and the user's hand. By providing guide rails and positional supports, it reduces the effort needed to rotate and position the power head, making it easier to operate one-handed despite the weight of the motor and transmission components
Solution Approach 2:
The guide rail system and angle stops provide self-aligning and self-positioning features that reduce the manual effort required. The structure guides the power head into the correct position automatically, lessening the burden on the user to manually rotate and position the heavy component
4Manufacturing precision
If the user must hold a latch in the disengagement position while rotating the power head, then the power head can be adjusted to the desired angular position, but the adjusting operation becomes inconvenient and troublesome
Solution Approach 1:
The locking function is extracted as a separate, independent mechanism from the rotation operation. The locking means can be engaged or disengaged independently of the power head's angular position, allowing the user to first rotate the power head to the desired position and then lock it, rather than having to coordinate both actions simultaneously
Solution Approach 2:
The guide rails and angle stops are pre-configured to guide the power head into the correct angular positions before locking occurs. This preliminary positioning ensures accuracy is achieved through the mechanical guide structure rather than requiring precise manual control during the locking operation
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 design simplifies the power tool's structure, reduces manufacturing costs, and makes angle adjustments more convenient for users by allowing them to rotate the gripping part to change the trimming angle without repositioning, enhancing user comfort and reducing the weight of the tool.
Implementation Method 1
the adjusting mechanism comprises a first transmission element and a second transmission element which are engaged with each other, the first transmission element is connected fixedly to the working head and mounted on the first shaft, the second transmission element is mounted on a hollow rod
Implementation Method 2
a locking means for collectively locking the angular position of the working head mounted on the hollow rod
Data Source
AI summary
A power tool according to the present invention comprising a working head including a working element, the working head is mounted on a first shaft with a first axis and can be rotated about the first axis, a gripping part, an adjusting mechanism connected between the working head and the gripping part, wherein the adjusting mechanism comprises at least a first transmission element and a second transmission element which are engaged with each other, the first transmission element is connected fixedly to the working head and mounted on the first shaft, the second transmission element is mounted on a hollow rod with an axis, the hollow rod can be rotated relative to the gripping part, a lock for collectively locking the angular position of the working head mounted on the hollow rod. The arrangement simplifies the structure of the power tool, while facilitating the adjusting operation. The user only needs to rotate the gripping part to adjust the trimming angular position without changing the original operation posture.