Wireless Power Tool Configuration via External User Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power tools lack efficient and user-friendly methods for programming and configuring their operational parameters, leading to suboptimal performance and maintenance challenges.
Innovation Solution
A communication system between power tools and external devices enables wireless configuration and programming through a user interface, allowing users to modify and save mode profiles, update firmware, and manage tool data, including a secure adaptive mode to prevent unauthorized changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If power tools use traditional programming methods, then device complexity is reduced, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an external computing device (smartphone, tablet, or computer) as an intermediary between the user and the power tool's programming interface. This external device runs a application that handles all complex programming tasks, while the power tool itself remains simple. The communication between the external device and power tool is established through wireless communication protocols, allowing users to configure operational parameters, update firmware, and manage tool settings without interacting with complex hardware interfaces on the tool itself.
2Adaptability or versatility
If power tools enable extensive customization options, then adaptability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the complexity of customization and configuration options from the power tool itself and places it in the external computing device's application. The power tool maintains a simple set of core functions, while the external application provides extensive customization capabilities including operational parameter adjustment, firmware updates, and diagnostic functions. This separation allows the tool to remain simple while offering unlimited adaptability through software-based configuration.
3Reliability
If power tools implement secure mode switching, then reliability improves, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic mode switching where the power tool can transition between different operational modes (normal mode and restricted mode) based on authentication status. In normal mode, users can access all features. When authentication is required, the system dynamically switches to restricted mode where only pre-approved parameters can be modified. This dynamic switching provides security while maintaining ease of operation for authorized users, as the security measures are only activated when needed.
Data Source
AI summary
A programmable power tool and method and systems of programming a power tool using wireless communication. An external device having a processor and a transceiver establishes a communication link with the power tool. The external device receives, with the transceiver, a first mode profile stored on the power tool. The first mode profile is defined by a profile type and a first value associated with a parameter for executing the profile type. The external device displays a control screen including the profile type and the parameter at the first value, and receives a user input. The external device generates, in response to the user input, a second mode profile by modifying the parameter to be at a second value. The external device transmits, with the transceiver, the second mode profile to the power tool.