Voice-Controlled Electric Power Tool with Dynamic Microphone Activation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric power tools require users to manually attach and detach operation plates and switch modes, which is cumbersome, especially when working at heights, and there is a need for improved usability and efficient recording of work data.
Innovation Solution
An electric power tool with a user operation switch, a driving unit, and a control unit that allows operation control through sound input to a microphone, enabling users to manipulate the tool without physical button pressing, with features like sound recognition and parameter setting for torque management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual operation plate attachment and mode switching is used, then device functionality is achieved, but user operation complexity and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical operation plate attachment and physical button switching with a voice recognition system. The microphone captures user commands, the control unit processes voice signals, and executes corresponding functions without requiring physical attachment or manual switching, thereby simplifying operation and saving time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces voice signals as an intermediary between the user and the device functions. Instead of direct mechanical interaction, the user speaks commands that are transmitted through the voice recognition system (microphone + control unit) to execute operations, serving as a non-contact mediator that eliminates the need for physical mode switching.
2Ease of operation
If voice recognition function is always active, then hands-free operation is enabled, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic activation of the voice recognition function rather than continuous operation. The control unit activates the microphone and voice recognition processing only during specific periods or conditions (such as when a trigger switch is activated or during predetermined time windows), allowing the microphone to remain inactive during other periods to conserve battery power.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the voice recognition system dynamic by changing its operational state based on conditions. The microphone transitions between active and inactive states, and the voice recognition function is enabled or disabled dynamically according to user actions (like trigger switch activation) or system conditions, optimizing power usage while maintaining hands-free operation capability when needed.
3Ease of operation
If voice recognition is implemented, then operation convenience is improved, but false activation from environmental noise occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs feedback mechanisms where the control unit analyzes voice signals in real-time and provides feedback on whether the detected sound corresponds to a valid command. The system can confirm with the user (through display or additional voice prompt) before executing commands, and can distinguish between intentional commands and environmental noise based on signal characteristics, timing patterns, and contextual information.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adjusts recognition parameters dynamically based on environmental conditions. The control unit can modify sensitivity thresholds, activation keywords, or recognition criteria depending on the detected noise level and operational context, making the system more robust against false activation in noisy environments while maintaining responsiveness to legitimate voice commands.
Data Source
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AI summary
A control unit 10 is adapted to perform a process related to an electric power tool 1, based on sound input to a microphone 12. The control unit 10 performs a process related to the electric power tool 1, based on a result of subjecting input sound to a sound recognition process or a result of subjecting the sound to sound analysis. When a user operation switch 9 is in an on state, the control unit 10 does not perform a sound recognition process, and, when the user operation switch 9 is in an off state, the control unit 10 performs a sound recognition process. Further, when the electric power tool 1 is not in a state of being gripped by the user, the control unit 10 does not perform a sound recognition process, and, when the electric power tool 1 is in a state of being gripped by the user, the control unit performs a sound recognition process.