Sliding Dust Collector Lock for Precise Tool Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dust collecting systems for power tools lack a convenient mechanism to adjust the position of the dust collector's cover part relative to the tool accessory, limiting user flexibility in positioning the tool accessory on a workpiece before starting a processing operation.
Innovation Solution
A dust collecting system with a sliding part that can be locked in an intermediate position using a solenoid-actuated lock member, allowing the user to position the tool accessory accurately before unlocking it to resume the default covering position when the power tool is started.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the cover part is biased forward to hold the sliding part in a specified position, then the tool accessory is automatically covered for safety and dust collection, but the user cannot position the tool accessory accurately on the workpiece before starting operation
Solution Approach 1:
The lock member is configured to lock the sliding part in a second position (rearward) before the power tool is activated, allowing the user to preliminarily position the tool accessory accurately on the workpiece. The locking mechanism enables this preliminary positioning action to be maintained until the motor-starting operation occurs, at which point the cover part automatically moves forward to cover the tool accessory.
2Measurement precision
If a lock member and lock-release member are added to enable positioning at different positions, then the user can accurately position the tool accessory, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lock-release member is integrated with the existing trigger mechanism of the power tool. When the user operates the trigger to start the motor, the lock-release member is automatically actuated to release the lock member. This merging of functions allows the positioning and locking mechanism to be controlled through the existing operational interface, avoiding the need for separate control mechanisms and reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock member is configured to automatically lock the sliding part in the second position when the power tool is not in operation, and automatically unlock when the motor-starting operation is performed. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for manual locking and unlocking operations by the user, simplifying the interface while maintaining precise positioning capability.
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 precise positioning of the tool accessory and efficient dust collection by allowing the user to visually align the tool accessory during setup and automatically covering it when the power tool is activated, enhancing user convenience and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
an actuator configured to unlock the sliding part locked by the lock member, by operating in response to a motor-starting operation for the power tool by a user
Implementation Method 2
The biasing member is configured to bias the sliding part forward to hold the sliding part in a first position
Data Source
AI summary
A dust collecting system includes a power tool and a dust collector. The dust collector includes a body, a sliding part, a biasing member, a lock member and an actuator. The body is configured to be removably attached to the power tool. The sliding part is held by the body so as to be slidable along a sliding axis. The biasing member is configured to bias the sliding part forward to hold the sliding part in a first position. The lock member is configured to lock the sliding part relative to the body in a second position. The actuator is configured to unlock the sliding part locked by the lock member, by operating in response to a motor-starting operation for the power tool by a user.