Single Switch Control for Electric Power Tool Modes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electric power tools with multiple switches and display units for operation modes and lighting settings require a larger mounting area, increasing size and cost, making it difficult to dispose components in a limited space effectively.
Innovation Solution
A single setting switch is used to change both operation modes and lighting settings, with duration time determining which setting to change, reducing the space required for switches and improving user convenience by prioritizing frequently changed settings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple switches and display units are provided for operation modes and lighting settings, then the functionality and ease of operation are improved, but the mounting area increases making the tool larger and more expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The single setting switch is designed to perform multiple functions: it can change operation modes, adjust lighting settings, and cycle through different parameters. By making the switch universal and multi-functional, the patent eliminates the need for separate switches and display units for each function, thereby reducing the mounting area while maintaining full operational capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple control functions into a single integrated setting switch. Instead of having separate switches for operation modes and lighting settings, both functions are merged into one switch that can be operated in different ways (e.g., different pressing durations or sequences) to achieve different settings, thus consolidating the control interface and reducing space requirements
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple switches and display units are provided for operation modes and lighting settings, then the functionality is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The setting switch is designed as a universal control element that can access and change multiple parameters including operation modes and lighting settings. This multi-functionality allows the system to maintain high adaptability and versatility while using a single switch component, thereby reducing device complexity and associated costs
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes different operational parameters of the single setting switch (such as pressing duration, number of presses, or pressing sequences) to differentiate between changing operation modes versus adjusting lighting settings. By encoding different functions through parameter variations rather than requiring separate physical switches, the system achieves high functionality with reduced complexity
3Ease of operation
If multiple switches and display units are provided for operation modes and lighting settings, then the ease of operation is improved, but the cost of the tool increases
Solution Approach 1:
By designing the setting switch to handle multiple functions (operation mode changes, lighting adjustments, parameter cycling), the patent reduces the total number of components that need to be manufactured and assembled. This universality lowers manufacturing costs while preserving ease of operation through a streamlined control interface
Solution Approach 2:
The consolidation of multiple switches and display units into a single setting switch reduces the bill of materials and assembly complexity. Fewer components mean lower manufacturing costs, while the intelligent design of the single switch maintains user-friendly operation through clear feedback mechanisms and intuitive control logic
Data Source
AI summary
An electric power tool of the present invention includes: a lighting unit; a motor that drives a tool element; a setting switch that is turned ON/OFF to change an operation mode setting and a lighting mode setting; a setting switching unit that changes the operation mode setting and the lighting mode setting corresponding to a manner of operation provided to the setting switch; a motor control unit that controls the motor according to a control method for one of the operation modes currently set by the setting switching unit; and a lighting control unit that controls the lighting unit corresponding to one of the lighting modes currently set by the setting switching unit. When the setting switch is turned on, the setting switching unit changes one of the operation mode setting and the lighting mode setting corresponding to a duration time of an ON state of the setting switch.