Trimmer Lock-Off Assembly With Pivoting Trigger Block
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing trimmers face issues with accidental or unintended activation of the trigger, which can lead to undesirable operation, and existing mechanisms to prevent this can cause the trigger to get stuck in an unwanted position.
Innovation Solution
A lock off assembly with a switch and a pivotable extension that blocks the trigger when in a safe position, allowing a two-step actuation process to prevent unintended operation, while minimizing the risk of the trigger getting stuck.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a lock off assembly is added to prevent accidental trigger activation, then safety is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pivotable extension is nested within the trigger guard structure, utilizing the existing spatial envelope of the handle assembly. The extension pivots within the confines of the trigger guard, eliminating the need for separate housing structures and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining the safety function.
Solution Approach 2:
The pivotable extension serves multiple functions: it acts as a physical barrier to prevent trigger activation, serves as a visual indicator of lock-off status, and integrates with the existing trigger guard structure. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components, thereby managing device complexity.
2Reliability
If existing lock off mechanisms are used to prevent accidental activation, then safety is improved, but the trigger may get stuck in an undesirable position
Solution Approach 1:
The pivotable extension is designed to be dynamically adjustable rather than fixed. It can pivot between different positions to accommodate trigger movement, ensuring that the trigger remains responsive and can be easily released when needed. This dynamic design prevents the trigger from getting stuck while maintaining the safety lock-off function.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock-off mechanism is segmented into movable components rather than a single rigid structure. The pivotable extension can independently adjust its position, allowing the trigger to move freely in certain ranges while being blocked in others. This segmentation prevents sticking issues that would occur with a fixed rigid barrier.
Data Source
AI summary
Lock off assemblies for trimmers are provided. A trimmer includes a working head; a handle assembly connected to the working head by a connecting member; a trigger connected to the handle assembly and movable between an off position and an on position, wherein the trigger being in the on position causes actuation of the working head; and a lock off assembly. The lock off assembly includes a switch connected to the handle assembly and movable between a safe position and an operate position; and a pivotable extension pivotably connected to the switch, wherein the pivotable extension contacts and blocks the trigger when the switch is in the safe position and the trigger is moved from the off position towards the on position, and wherein the trigger is free to move between the off position and the on position when the switch is in the operate position.