Wireless Extender for Tool Signal Range Extension
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing work tools require operators to be physically close to the workpiece, posing safety risks and accessibility issues, especially when cutting live wires or working in confined spaces, as they rely on direct communication for functionality implementation.
Innovation Solution
A tool system with a wireless extender that uses Bluetooth protocol to increase communication range, allowing remote control of the tool from a safer distance, featuring a power source and antennas for extended signal transmission and reception, and optional wired communication via an electrical cable for further range extension.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If direct wireless communication is used between the tool and remote device, then communication simplicity is maintained, but communication range is limited requiring operator proximity to workpiece
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a wireless extender as an intermediary device that receives wireless signals from the remote device and retransmits them to the tool, thereby extending the communication range without requiring the operator to be physically close to the workpiece. This mediator approach resolves the contradiction by enabling long-range communication while maintaining relative system simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The communication system is segmented into multiple independent components: the tool, the remote device, and the wireless extender. This segmentation allows each component to operate within its optimal range while collectively achieving extended communication coverage, resolving the range limitation without requiring complex long-range communication hardware in the tool itself.
2Reliability
If operator works close to workpiece for direct control, then control precision is improved, but safety risks increase when cutting live wires or in confined spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The wireless extender acts as a mediator that decouples the operator's physical position from the tool's location. The operator can control the tool remotely from a safe distance while the extender bridges the communication gap, thereby improving safety without sacrificing control accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical requirement of physical proximity with wireless communication. Instead of needing to be mechanically close to the workpiece for control, the operator uses wireless signals transmitted through the extender, substituting physical presence with electromagnetic signal transmission.
3Adaptability or versatility
If wireless extender is added to extend communication range, then operator safety and flexibility are improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The wireless extender is designed as a standalone intermediary device that simplifies the overall system architecture. Rather than integrating complex long-range communication into the tool, a separate extender handles the range extension, improving operational flexibility while keeping the tool design simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The wireless extender serves multiple functions: it extends communication range, enables remote operation for safety, and can potentially support multiple tools or devices. This multi-functionality justifies the added component by providing versatility across different operational scenarios.
Data Source
AI summary
A tool system is provided that can include a tool body, a controller, and an actuator that is configured to implement a functionality. The tool system can include an extender in communication with the controller and a remote device in communication with the extender. The remote device can transmit a first signal to the extender. The extender can, in response to the first signal, transmit a second signal to the controller to cause the actuator to implement the functionality.