Trigger Switch Tactile Feedback Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing trigger switches for power tools lack a clear tactile sensation of the inflection point during a depressing operation, which can make it difficult for operators to discern changes in motor rotational speed effectively.
Innovation Solution
A trigger switch design incorporating a shaft, first and second movable members, and elastic urging members that provide distinct operation loads before and after the inflection point, allowing for a tactile sensation of the inflection point through a change in operation load, with a controller outputting drive signals corresponding to the depressed amount.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a trigger switch has an inflection point during depressing operation to change motor rotational speed, then the motor speed control is improved, but the tactile sensation of the inflection point is not clearly provided to the operator
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a tactile sensation transmission mechanism as an intermediary between the inflection point mechanism and the operator's finger. This mechanism includes a tactile sensation transmission portion that physically transmits the load change at the inflection point to the operator's finger, making the inflection point perceptible. The intermediary component bridges the gap between the internal mechanical change and the external sensory perception.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements tactile feedback by designing the trigger mechanism to provide real-time force feedback to the operator's finger during the depressing operation. When the trigger passes through the inflection point, the change in operational load is transmitted back to the operator's finger through the tactile sensation transmission portion, providing immediate feedback about the speed change point without requiring visual attention.
2Device complexity
If the trigger switch structure is simplified without urging members, then the device complexity is reduced, but the tactile feedback and operational control are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the trigger mechanism into distinct functional portions: a trigger portion for manual operation, an operational load generation portion for creating resistance, and a tactile sensation transmission portion for providing feedback. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall simplicity. The modular structure enables clear separation of concerns without requiring complex integrated mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The trigger switch is designed to be self-sufficient in providing tactile feedback without requiring external power sources or complex electronic components. The operational load generation portion automatically creates the necessary resistance, and the tactile sensation transmission portion automatically transmits the feedback to the operator's finger based on the mechanical state of the trigger, making the system self-regulating and simple in structure.
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 design enhances the operator's tactile feedback of the inflection point, enabling a more intuitive control of motor speed changes, improving the operational experience by providing distinct load changes corresponding to the depressed amount.
Implementation Method 1
The first urging member and the second urging member include elastic members
Data Source
AI summary
A trigger switch may include a first urging member urging a trigger, a shaft including a first end attached to the trigger, a first movable member connected to a second end of the shaft, a second movable member, a second urging member located between the first movable member and the second movable member, and a contact portion to be in contact with the second movable member moved in a depressing direction. In response to a depressing operation on the trigger, the first movable member, the second movable member, and the second urging member move in the depressing direction until the second movable member comes in contact with the contact portion. In response to an additional depressing operation on the trigger with the second movable member in contact with the contact portion, the first movable member moves in the depressing direction, and the second urging member urges the first movable member.