Static-Dissipative Connector for Dust Collection Discharge

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing sanders suffer from unpleasant electric discharges due to static electricity accumulation in the dust collection system, which is not adequately discharged, especially when the dust collection device is not floor-mounted, leading to user discomfort.

Innovation Solution

A connector made of static dissipative material with a conductive rubber sleeve and insulating cover, or a twist lock and press-fit engagement structure, allows for efficient static electricity discharge and easy connection to the dust collection device, reducing the risk of electric discharge to the user.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a connector made of conductive material is used to discharge static electricity, then static electricity discharge performance is improved, but the risk of electric discharge to user's hand increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestatic electricity discharge performanceVSAvoidelectric discharge to user

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The connector applies local quality by using conductive material only in specific areas where static electricity discharge is needed (inner surface contacting dust, conductive components), while the outer surface accessible to users remains insulating. This localized application of conductivity resolves the contradiction by providing discharge performance where needed while preventing user exposure to electric discharge risks.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The connector acts as an intermediary between the charged dust collection system and the user environment. It provides a controlled discharge path through its conductive internal structure while its insulating external surface prevents direct electric discharge to users, effectively mediating between the charged system and safe user interaction.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Object-affected harmful factors

If a connector made of insulating material is used, then user safety is improved, but static electricity discharge performance deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveuser safetyVSAvoidstatic electricity discharge performance

Core Design Contradiction:

Object-affected harmful factorsVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The connector uses composite materials combining both conductive and insulating properties within a single component. The inner portions use conductive materials for effective static electricity discharge, while outer portions use insulating materials for user safety. This composite structure resolves the contradiction by integrating both required functions into one element.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

3Ease of operation

If a simple fit structure is used for connecting dust collection device, then ease of connection is improved, but connection stability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection easeVSAvoidconnection stability

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The connection structure is segmented into multiple functional elements: a fit portion for easy initial connection, and engagement portions (protrusions and recesses) for stable locking. This segmentation allows the connection process to occur in stages - easy insertion followed by secure engagement - resolving the contradiction between ease of connection and connection stability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The engagement portions are nested within the overall fit structure. The protrusions and recesses are integrated into the connector body, creating a nested configuration where the simple fit structure contains the more complex engagement features. This nested design maintains ease of initial connection while providing stable locking through the integrated engagement elements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

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

The connector effectively dissipates static electricity, preventing unpleasant discharges and enhancing connection convenience by allowing multiple attachment options, while simplifying the apparatus configuration and reducing the need for additional discharge components.

Implementation Method 1

the outer surface of the connector is made of the static dissipative material, and therefore static electricity accumulated at a portion closer to the dust collection device than the connector can be released to the machining apparatus via the connector

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectStatic electricity dissipation: Conduction (electrical)

Implementation Method 2

a rubber sleeve made of a conductive material and including an inner circumferential surface with a circumferentially extending recessed portion and/or protrusion portion defined thereon

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectrical conduction: Conduction (electrical)

Data Source

PatentUS20250262718A1Connector and machining apparatus

Publication Date: 2025.08.21 MAKITA CORP

AI summary

A connector configured to connect a machining apparatus and a dust collection device includes a through-hole configured to establish communication between the machining apparatus and the dust collection device, and an outer surface made of a static dissipative material.