Spindle Lock Actuator for Power Tool Torque Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Power tools lack the ability to allow users to manually apply a load to the spindle beyond the tool's capability without requiring manual engagement and disengagement of a lock, limiting user control and torque application.
Innovation Solution
A power tool with an actuator that automatically engages and disengages a spindle lock along the axis of rotation, using a solenoid or pneumatic actuator, allowing manual torque application by converting handle force into spindle torque.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a manual lock engagement mechanism is used, then the spindle can be locked to allow manual torque application, but the operation complexity increases and productivity decreases due to manual engagement and disengagement steps
Solution Approach 1:
The lock mechanism automatically engages and disengages based on trigger input without requiring separate manual operations. When the trigger is released, the lock automatically engages to enable manual torque application. When the trigger is pressed, the lock automatically disengages to restore powered operation. This self-service behavior eliminates the need for separate manual lock engagement/disengagement steps, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock mechanism transitions from a static manual engagement system to a dynamic automated system that responds to trigger input. The lock state changes automatically based on operational mode (powered vs. manual), allowing the system to adapt its locking behavior dynamically. This dynamic behavior enables the spindle to be locked only when needed for manual torque application, improving both adaptability and operational efficiency.
2Ease of operation
If the spindle is free to rotate when not driven, then the power tool can operate in powered mode, but the user cannot manually apply load to the spindle
Solution Approach 1:
The spindle rotation control transitions from a static free-rotation state to a dynamic controlled state based on trigger input. When the trigger is released, the lock automatically engages to prevent rotation, enabling manual load application. When the trigger is pressed, the lock disengages to allow rotation for powered operation. This dynamic control mechanism resolves the contradiction by providing both manual load application capability and reliable rotation control in different operational modes.
3Productivity
If an automated actuator is used to engage and disengage the lock, then productivity increases, but the device complexity increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The trigger input serves multiple functions: it controls the power source operation and simultaneously controls the lock mechanism engagement/disengagement. The actuator mechanism is integrated with the existing trigger and power source control system, allowing a single user input to control both powered operation and locking behavior. This multi-functionality approach increases productivity while minimizing the addition of separate control mechanisms, thereby reducing overall device complexity.
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 users to manually apply greater torque to fasteners without manual lock engagement, enhancing user control and operational efficiency by automatically managing the spindle lock's engagement and disengagement based on trigger input.
Implementation Method 1
the actuator may be a solenoid actuator
Implementation Method 2
the actuator may be a pneumatic actuator
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
Illustrative embodiments of power tools with spindle locks are disclosed. In one illustrative embodiment, a power tool (10) may include a drive train (12) including an output assembly (22), the output assembly including a spindle (24) configured to support a tool element (26), a power source (14) configured to selectively supply energy to the drive train to cause the output assembly including the spindle to rotate, a switch (16) movable between a first position in which the power source does not supply energy to the drive train and a second position in which the power source supplies energy to the drive train, and a spindle lock (20) configured to automatically engage the output assembly including the spindle when the switch is in the first position and to automatically disengage the output assembly including the spindle when the switch is in the second position, the spindle lock preventing rotation of the output assembly including the spindle when engaged.