Tool Signal Extender With Antenna for Remote Hazardous Operation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing work tools, such as cutting tools, require operators to be physically present near the work piece, which can be risky, especially when dealing with live wires or tools situated in hard-to-reach locations.

Innovation Solution

A tool system that includes a tool with an actuator, a connector, and a controller, which can be electrically connected to an extender with an antenna, allowing for remote control and extended communication range through Bluetooth protocol.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the operator is positioned near the work piece to operate the tool, then the operator can directly control the tool, but the operator is exposed to safety risks and cannot reach hard-to-access locations

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoperator accessibilityVSAvoidoperator safety risk

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an extender device with an antenna as an intermediary between the tool and the operator. The extender wirelessly transmits control signals and data between the tool at the work location and the operator's device, allowing the operator to control the tool from a safe distance without direct physical proximity to hazardous areas or hard-to-reach locations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the traditional mechanical control system requiring physical presence with a wireless communication system. The tool and operator's device communicate via wireless signals (e.g., Bluetooth, Wi-Fi), eliminating the need for the operator to be physically near the tool, thus substituting mechanical proximity-based control with electromagnetic signal-based control.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Length of moving object

If the tool is equipped with wireless communication capability, then the communication range is extended, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecommunication rangeVSAvoidtool structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Length of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates the antenna into a multi-functional extender device that serves both as a communication interface and as a signal transmission medium. The extender combines wireless communication capabilities with the existing tool structure, allowing the same hardware to fulfill multiple functions (communication, signal relay, and physical connection), thereby extending communication range without proportionally increasing complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS20250118885A1Systems and methods for tool signal extension

Publication Date: 2025.04.10 MILWAUKEE ELECTRIC TOOL CORP

AI summary

A tool is provided with a connector that can be configured to removably receive a corresponding connector of an extender having an antenna to electrically connect the extender to the tool. With the connector of the tool electrically connected to the connector of the extender, the controller can be configured to utilize the antenna.