Sander Removable Platen Tool-Free Attachment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sanders with removable platens require tools to decouple the platen, and tool-less coupling systems are large and costly, failing to effectively support abrasive media.
Innovation Solution
A tool with a drive system, platen, and retaining knob where the platen and knob surfaces are co-planar, allowing for tool-free attachment and secure retention of abrasive media using a threaded mechanism and optional hook-and-loop fastener for enhanced stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If threaded fasteners requiring tools are used to attach the platen, then secure retention is achieved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to requiring tools for attachment and removal
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining knob enables the user to attach and detach the platen by hand without requiring external tools. The knob threads directly onto the output member, allowing self-service attachment and removal through simple rotational motion of the knob itself.
2Ease of operation
If tool-less coupling systems are used to improve ease of operation, then attachment convenience improves, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential fastening function from complex tool-less coupling systems and implements it through a simple threaded retaining knob. This removes unnecessary complexity while maintaining the benefit of tool-free operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The retaining knob is a simple, inexpensive threaded component that provides adequate retention for the intended application. Rather than using expensive complex coupling mechanisms, a basic threaded knob suffices for the sanding application.
3Ease of operation
If existing tool-less coupling systems are used, then ease of operation improves, but ability to support abrasive media deteriorates due to lack of proper support area
Solution Approach 1:
The solution extends the support surface vertically by making the retaining knob co-planar with the platen exterior surface. This creates an additional flat area that, when combined with the platen surface, provides adequate support area for abrasive media while maintaining tool-free attachment.
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 secure, tool-free attachment and retention of abrasive media, improving usability and resistance to loosening due to vibration, while reducing costs and complexity.
Implementation Method 1
The attachment member has a second threaded portion that is threadably coupled to the first threaded portion
Data Source
AI summary
A tool for moving an abrasive media. The tool includes a tool body, a platen, a drive system and a retaining knob. The platen has an exterior platen surface and a knob aperture that is formed through the exterior platen surface. The drive system is housed in the tool body and configured to move the platen. The drive system includes an output member with a first threaded portion. The retaining knob is received through the knob aperture in the exterior platen surface of the platen. The retaining knob has a knob portion, which has an exterior surface, and an attachment member with a second threaded portion that is threadably coupled to the first threaded portion. The platen surface and at least a portion of the knob surface are co-planar. A related method is also provided.