Trigger Lock and Mode Selector Mechanism for Fastener Driver

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Fastener driving devices lack a convenient and secure method for switching between operational modes, such as sequential and bump drive modes, which can lead to accidental actuation or inefficient operation.

Innovation Solution

A fastener driving device with a trigger assembly that includes a mode selector and a trigger lock, allowing users to lock and unlock the trigger lever while engaging or disengaging the mode selector, enabling seamless switching between operational modes by moving the trigger lock and mode selector through specific sequences.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a mode selector is added to allow switching between operational modes, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemode selection capabilityVSAvoidtrigger assembly complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The mode selector and trigger lock are merged into a single integrated assembly that works together with the trigger lever. The mode selector includes a lock portion that engages with the trigger lever, combining mode selection and trigger locking functions into one mechanism, thereby adding adaptability without proportionally increasing complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The mode selector serves multiple functions: it selects the operational mode (sequential or bump drive), locks the trigger in the selected mode, and prevents accidental actuation. This multi-functionality allows a single component to address multiple needs, improving adaptability while managing complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If the trigger is made remotely controllable, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to accidental actuation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetrigger control convenienceVSAvoidaccidental actuation prevention
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The trigger lock is engaged in a locked position by default, preventing accidental actuation before it can occur. The lock must be deliberately disengaged by the user through a specific mechanism (pressing the mode selector or trigger lock release) to allow trigger operation, thereby preventing accidental activation while maintaining ease of intentional operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #9Preliminary anti-action

3Reliability

If a trigger lock mechanism is implemented to prevent accidental actuation, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation worsens

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetrigger actuation controlVSAvoidmode switching convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The mode selector and trigger lock are designed to be self-servicing through intuitive mechanical interaction. The user simply presses or moves the mode selector to the desired position, and the lock automatically engages or disengages without requiring separate actions. This self-service design maintains ease of operation while ensuring reliable trigger control

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS8800835B2Fastener driving device with mode selector and trigger interlock
Publication Date: 2014.08.12 STANLEY FASTENING SYSTEMS LP
  • US8800835B2 patent drawing
  • US8800835B2 patent drawing
  • US8800835B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A fastener driving device includes a frame, a fastener driver reciprocally mounted in the frame, and a trigger assembly. The trigger assembly includes a trigger lever configured to be moved to an actuated position to actuate the fastener driving device, a mode selector rotatably mounted to the frame, the mode selector being configured to move to select a mode of operation of the fastener driving device, and a trigger lock mounted to the frame, the trigger lock being movable between a first position wherein actuation of the trigger lever is permitted and a second position wherein actuation of the trigger lever is prevented. In the first position, the trigger lock engages the mode selector to prevent the mode selector from moving. In the second position, the trigger lock disengages the mode selector to permit movement of the mode selector to select the mode of operation of the fastener driving device.