Wireless Power Tool Programming for Rapid Jobsite Setting Changes

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing power tool systems lack the ability to rapidly and efficiently modify attributes such as blade speed to match specific job site applications, requiring manual adjustments that are time-consuming and inefficient.

Innovation Solution

A wireless communication system integrated into power tool battery packs and computing devices allows for remote modification of power tool attributes, enabling users to adjust settings via a mobile app, including motor speed, power output, and accessory compatibility, using Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or other wireless protocols, and includes features like data monitoring and customizable trigger profiles.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If manual adjustments are used to modify power tool attributes, then the system structure remains simple, but the productivity and time efficiency deteriorate due to time-consuming adjustments

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespeed of modifying power tool attributesVSAvoidcomplexity of adjustment system
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual mechanical adjustments with electronic control systems. A microprocessor-based controller receives input from user interfaces (buttons, touch screens) and automatically adjusts power tool attributes like blade speed and power output through electronic signals, eliminating the need for manual mechanical modification while significantly improving adjustment speed and productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an electronic control system as an intermediary between the user and the power tool's mechanical components. This intermediary layer includes microprocessors, sensors, and actuators that translate user inputs into precise control of tool attributes, enabling rapid modification without direct manual intervention on mechanical parts.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If fixed power tool settings are used, then the device complexity remains low, but the adaptability to different job site applications deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to match job site applicationsVSAvoidcomplexity of control system
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic adjustability in power tools through electronic control systems that allow real-time modification of operating parameters. Users can change blade speed, power output, and other attributes during operation to match different materials and tasks, transforming fixed tools into adaptable systems without requiring complete redesign of the mechanical structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent enables modification of key operating parameters (speed, power, torque) through electronic controls. The microprocessor-based system accepts user inputs and adjusts electrical parameters delivered to the motor, which in turn modifies mechanical output characteristics, allowing the same tool to perform multiple functions across different applications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Ease of operation

If wireless communication systems are integrated into power tools, then the ease of operation improves through remote adjustment, but the device complexity and weight increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconvenience of adjusting settingsVSAvoidweight of power tool
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates wireless communication capabilities into the existing electronic control system of the power tool. The same microprocessor and communication modules that enable basic electronic control also provide wireless connectivity for remote adjustment via mobile devices. This multi-functionality approach adds convenience without requiring separate dedicated wireless hardware, minimizing additional weight.

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

Data Source

PatentUS20240402665A1System, device and process for programming power tools
Publication Date: 2024.12.05 BLACK & DECKER CORP
  • US20240402665A1 patent drawing
  • US20240402665A1 patent drawing
  • US20240402665A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A computing device including a display, a wireless communication circuit, and a processor. The device is configured to: wirelessly contact a set of power tools; display a listing of the power tools; wirelessly receive a user selection of a first power tool from the listing; receive at least one performance data associated with a performance of the first power tool; display attributes including the performance data and identity data of the first power tool in response to the user selection; receive a user modification input modifying the at least one performance data; and transmit instructions to the first power tool to modify the performance data in accordance with the user modification input. The computing device may implement this process with a set of battery packs or non-rotary devices.