U.S. patent application number 10/997614 was filed with the patent office on 2005-05-26 for carbon dioxide power system and method.
Invention is credited to Everson, Rodney W..
Application Number | 20050111995 10/997614 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34636533 |
Filed Date | 2005-05-26 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050111995 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Everson, Rodney W. |
May 26, 2005 |
Carbon dioxide power system and method
Abstract
A system and method for driving a power tool or other implement
using pressurized gas delivered from a portable canister, a
business method for distributing canisters for use with such a
system and method, and a compact distribution block for regulating
pressure and delivering fluid from the canister to the tool.
Inventors: |
Everson, Rodney W.;
(Marietta, GA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
GARDNER GROFF, P.C.
2018 POWERS FERRY ROAD
SUITE 800
ATLANTA
GA
30339
US
|
Family ID: |
34636533 |
Appl. No.: |
10/997614 |
Filed: |
November 24, 2004 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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60525097 |
Nov 25, 2003 |
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60560422 |
Apr 8, 2004 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
417/313 ;
417/572 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F17C 2205/0142 20130101;
F17C 13/084 20130101; F17C 2223/033 20130101; F17C 2201/0109
20130101; F17C 2205/0376 20130101; F17C 2205/0332 20130101; F17C
2201/0119 20130101; F17C 2205/0126 20130101; F17C 2260/012
20130101; F17C 2270/0772 20130101; F17C 2270/0754 20130101; F17C
2201/058 20130101; B25F 5/00 20130101; F17C 2223/036 20130101; F17C
2205/0329 20130101; F17C 2205/0338 20130101; F17C 2205/013
20130101; F17C 2221/013 20130101; F17C 2250/043 20130101; F17C
2223/0153 20130101; F17C 2205/0157 20130101; F17C 2270/0545
20130101; F17C 2201/032 20130101; F17C 2223/0123 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
417/313 ;
417/572 |
International
Class: |
F04B 023/00 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A portable tool drive system comprising at least one canister
for containing a pressurized drive fluid, a distribution block
attached to said canister, and a regulator for regulating a fluid
delivery pressure; wherein said distribution block comprises a
refill port, and a discharge port for delivery of the drive
fluid.
2. The portable tool drive system of claim 1, wherein the discharge
port comprises a quick-release coupling.
3. The portable tool drive system of claim 1, further comprising at
least one gauge for indicating a fluid pressure.
4. The portable tool drive system of claim 3, comprising only a
single gauge for indicating a regulated fluid delivery
pressure.
5. The portable tool drive system of claim 1, wherein the
distribution block further comprises a pressure-relief safety valve
for venting excess fluid pressure.
6. The portable tool drive system of claim 1, wherein the
distribution block comprises a first coupling for attachment to the
canister, and a second coupling for attachment of a fluid delivery
conduit to the discharge port, and wherein the first and second
couplings are oriented at an oblique angle relative to one
another.
7. The portable tool drive system of claim 6, wherein the
distribution block further comprises a third coupling for
attachment of a gauge for indicating a fluid pressure, and wherein
the first and third couplings are oriented at an oblique angle
relative to one another.
8. The portable tool drive system of claim 1, wherein the regulator
and the distribution block are combined as an integral
component.
9. The portable tool drive system of claim 1, comprising two
canisters for containing a pressurized drive fluid, and a jumper
providing fluid communication between the two canisters.
10. The portable tool drive system of claim 1, further comprising
an emergency release allowing high-volume discharge of the
pressurized drive fluid for fire-suppression purposes.
11. An integral distribution block and pressure regulator for a
portable tool drive system, said integral distribution block and
pressure regulator comprising a first coupling for attachment to a
portable container of pressurized fluid, and a second coupling for
attachment to a fluid discharge conduit, wherein said first and
second couplings are oriented at an oblique angle relative to one
another.
12. The integral distribution block and pressure regulator of claim
11, further comprising a third coupling for attachment of a gauge
for indicating a fluid pressure, wherein the first and third
couplings are oriented at an oblique angle relative to one
another.
13. The integral distribution block and pressure regulator of claim
11, further comprising a refill port.
14. The integral distribution block and pressure regulator of claim
11, further comprising a pressure-relief safety valve for venting
excess fluid pressure.
15. The integral distribution block and pressure regulator of claim
11, wherein the first and second couplings comprise threaded bores
in a lower housing portion of the integral distribution block and
pressure regulator, and wherein the integral distribution block and
pressure regulator further comprises an upper bell cover mountable
onto the lower housing portion to enclose a variable pressure
regulation mechanism.
16. A method of driving a power tool, said method comprising:
installing a distribution block and pressure regulator onto a
canister; substantially filling the canister with a pressurized
drive fluid via a fill port in the distribution block; and coupling
a power tool to a discharge port in the distribution block to
deliver the pressurized drive fluid to drive the power tool.
17. The method of claim 16, wherein the step of substantially
filling the canister comprises delivering compressed CO.sub.2 into
the canister through the fill port.
18. The method of claim 16, further comprising refilling the
canister after discharging at least a portion of the pressurized
drive fluid.
19. The method of claim 16, further comprising: uncoupling the
power tool from the discharge port after discharging at least a
portion of the pressurized drive fluid; exchanging a first
canister, distribution block and pressure regulator for a second
canister, distribution block and pressure regulator; and
re-coupling the power tool to a discharge port in the second
distribution block.
20. The method of claim 19, wherein the second canister is of a
different size than the first canister.
21. The method of claim 16, further comprising mounting the
canister, distribution block and pressure regulator to a
user-wearable carrier.
22. The method of claim 16, further comprising activating an
emergency release to trigger a high-volume discharge of the
pressurized drive fluid from the canister for fire-suppression
purposes.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Patent Application Ser. No. 60/525,097 filed Nov. 25, 2003, and
U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/560,422 filed Apr.
8, 2004, which applications are incorporated herein by reference in
their entireties for all purposes.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present invention relates generally to a portable power
system and method for driving tools or other implements; and more
particularly to a pressurized fluid drive system and method for
power tools and the like, preferably utilizing carbon dioxide
(CO.sub.2) or other fluid dispensed from a self-contained portable
canister as the pressurized drive fluid.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Power tools and other implements are commonly used in
various industrial, residential, automotive and other applications.
For example, power nail-guns and staplers are commonly used in the
construction trades, power impact wrenches and lifts are used in
automotive repair and maintenance, and power paint sprayers and
rollers are used in various paint and finish applications. Various
other tasks are or can be performed with the assistance of power
tools and implements.
[0004] Known power tools and implements commonly utilize
pressurized air (pneumatic-drive) or pressurized liquid
(hydraulic-drive) as their fluid power sources. In other known
systems and methods, a controlled explosion of butane or other
hydrocarbon fuel source is utilized as a power source for nail-guns
and the like.
[0005] Such previously known systems and methods for driving power
tools and implements have been found to have a number of
disadvantages. For example, pneumatic and hydraulic drive systems
generally require that the tool be connected, typically by a length
of hose, to a stationary compressor or the like. This limits the
applicability of such systems to applications requiring ease of
portability, and presents safety risks and inconveniences resulting
from the hoses being stretched through the workplace, often
becoming entangled with other equipment and creating tripping
hazards. Butane cartridges, compressors, and other equipment
associated with previously known systems and methods also tend to
be quite expensive, and/or to require frequent maintenance, adding
further expense and inconvenience.
[0006] Thus it can be seen that needs exist for improved systems
and methods for driving power tools and other implements. It is to
the provision of improved systems and methods meeting these and
other needs that the present invention is primarily directed.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] In example forms, the present invention is an improved
system and method for driving power tools and other implements. The
system and method of the present invention preferably utilize
self-contained tanks or canisters of pressurized fluid, most
preferably carbon dioxide (CO.sub.2), as the power source to drive
various power tools and implements. Such tanks and canisters are
commercially available in various sizes, typically at a pressure of
about 720-810 p.s.i. (nominal 800 p.s.i.).
[0008] In one aspect, the present invention is an inexpensive
disposable tank or canister containing pressurized liquid CO.sub.2
or other pressurized drive fluid, for use as a power source to
drive various power tools and implements. The tank or canister
optionally comprises an attached or integral fitting and/or adapter
for coupling to a regulator, a hose, a coupling element of a power
tool or implement, a fill attachment, a pressure-relief safety
valve, and/or a quick-release coupling for attachment to a tool or
to a connection hose in communication with the tool.
[0009] In another aspect, the invention is a universal distribution
block or adapter for connection to CO.sub.2 tanks or canisters of
different sizes. For example, a common distribution block can be
provided to couple both 20-ounce and 2-pound CO.sub.2 canisters to
a tool or implement. In other embodiments, a common distribution
block couples to two or more of a 20-ounce CO.sub.2 canister, a
2-pound CO.sub.2 canister, a 5-pound CO.sub.2 tank, a 20-pound
CO.sub.2 tank, and/or a 50-pound CO.sub.2 tank. Optionally, the
distribution block includes attachment couplings or integral mounts
for a pressure regulator, a fill attachment, a pressure-relief
safety valve, and/or a quick-release coupling for attachment to the
tool or to a connection hose in communication with the tool. In
still other embodiments, the distribution block may be fitted with
an adaptor that allows recharging of a CO.sub.2 tank without
removing the distribution valve or regulator.
[0010] In still another aspect, the invention is a system including
a CO.sub.2 power source and one or more tools or implements driven
by that source. For example, in one example system according to the
present invention, a hand-portable canister or tank of pressurized
liquid CO.sub.2 is connected via a flexible hose to a power tool
such as a nail gun or stapler. In other embodiments, the flexible
hose is fitted with an in-line pneumatic oiler to provide
lubrication or antifreeze to the tool. In still other embodiments,
the system utilizes CO.sub.2 as the drive source for one or more
other tools or implements, such as for example a stapler, a paint
gun or roller, an impact wrench, a jack or automotive lift, a
pressurization fitting for leak-testing plumbing or other conduits
or vessels, and/or a spray applicator for pesticides or other
fluids.
[0011] In still another aspect, the invention is a method for
driving a power tool or other implement using pressurized CO.sub.2
or another compressed fluid.
[0012] In another aspect, the invention is a system for driving a
power tool or other implement using pressurized CO.sub.2 as the
power source, which system also functions as a fire extinguishing
or suppression system. For example, a canister or tank of CO.sub.2
can be connected via a first coupling of a distribution block to a
power tool or implement such as an impact wrench and/or vehicle
jack, and connected via a second coupling of the distribution block
to a release mechanism for discharging CO.sub.2 through a hose or
nozzle in the fashion of a CO.sub.2 fire extinguisher. This system
is of particular advantage in automotive racing or other
applications of potential fire risk.
[0013] In another aspect, the invention is a system including a
CO.sub.2 power source and one or more tools or implements driven by
that source including a system of one or more gauges and/or scales
used to monitor the CO.sub.2 power source. For example, in one
embodiment a gauge is used to measure the pressure inside both the
regulator and the line, while a calibrated scale is used to
determine the amount of CO.sub.2 remaining in the tank.
[0014] In another aspect, the invention is a CO.sub.2 powered
system used to drive one or more tools or implements that utilizes
ergonomically designed connections, regulator and gauge suitable
for portable, hip-mounted use. For example, the regulator, gauge
and line connector can be positioned at acute angles relative to
the tank in order to minimize user interference and discomfort
while using the CO.sub.2 powered system. A harness or belt can be
provided, having mounting loops or other releasable fastening
means, for carrying the fluid canister, the tool, and related
implements, in a safe and convenient manner. The components of the
tool and drive system can be provided as a kit, and/or as separate
components.
[0015] In still another aspect, the invention is a business method
for distributing, selling and exchanging replacement CO.sub.2 tanks
for driving power tools and the like. For example, the CO.sub.2
tanks can be sold with both a distributor valve and a universal
fitting for bottles and tools already affixed to the tank. In this
manner, the tanks are ready to use as bought. Upon emptying the
tank, the end user can exchange the empty tank for a full tank with
a licensed retailer. In other embodiments, the user may return an
empty tank to a retailer and have the tank refilled.
[0016] In another aspect, the invention is a portable tool drive
system including at least one canister for containing a pressurized
drive fluid, a distribution block attached to the canister, and a
regulator for regulating a fluid delivery pressure. The
distribution block preferably includes a refill port, and a
discharge port for delivery of the drive fluid.
[0017] In another aspect, the invention is an integral distribution
block and pressure regulator for a portable tool drive system. The
integral distribution block and pressure regulator preferably
include a first coupling for attachment to a portable container of
pressurized fluid, and a second coupling for attachment to a fluid
discharge conduit, and the first and second couplings are oriented
at an oblique angle relative to one another.
[0018] In yet another aspect, the invention is a method of driving
a power tool, the method including the steps of installing a
distribution block and pressure regulator onto a canister;
substantially filling the canister with a pressurized drive fluid
via a fill port in the distribution block; and coupling a power
tool to a discharge port in the distribution block to deliver the
pressurized drive fluid to drive the power tool.
[0019] These and other aspects, features and advantages of the
invention will be understood with reference to the drawing figures
and detailed description herein, and will be realized by means of
the various elements and combinations particularly pointed out in
the appended claims. It is to be understood that both the foregoing
general description and the following brief description of the
drawings and detailed description of the invention are exemplary
and explanatory of preferred embodiments of the invention, and are
not restrictive of the invention, as claimed.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0020] FIG. 1 is a side view of a tool and drive system according
to an example embodiment of the present invention.
[0021] FIG. 2 is an elevational view of a distribution block or
adapter according to an example embodiment of the invention.
[0022] FIG. 3 is an assembly view of a dual-canister drive system
according to an example embodiment of the invention.
[0023] FIGS. 4 and 5 are perspective and top views of pack-mounted
drive systems according to two alternate embodiments of the
invention.
[0024] FIGS. 6 and 7 show distribution block and regulator valve
assemblies according to alternate forms of the invention.
[0025] FIG. 8 shows a portable fluid drive canister fitted with a
universal distribution block incorporating a pressure gauge, quick
release connector, pressure regulator, and fill attachment,
according to another example embodiment of the present
invention.
[0026] FIG. 9 shows an exploded view of the distributor block
component of FIG. 8.
[0027] FIG. 10 shows an example embodiment of the system of the
present invention, including a portable fluid drive canister
powering a pneumatic nail gun.
[0028] FIG. 11 shows another example embodiment of the system of
the present invention, including a portable fluid drive canister
powering an air brush paint or finish applicator.
[0029] FIG. 12 shows another example embodiment of the system of
the present invention, including a portable fluid drive canister
powering an air inflation system.
[0030] FIG. 13 shows another example embodiment of the system of
the present invention, including a portable fluid drive canister
powering an impact wrench.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS
[0031] The present invention may be understood more readily by
reference to the following detailed description of the invention
taken in connection with the accompanying drawing figures, which
form a part of this disclosure. It is to be understood that this
invention is not limited to the specific devices, methods,
conditions or parameters described and/or shown herein, and that
the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing
particular embodiments by way of example only and is not intended
to be limiting of the claimed invention. Also, as used in the
specification including the appended claims, the singular forms
"a," "an," and "the" include the plural, and reference to a
particular numerical value includes at least that particular value,
unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Ranges may be
expressed herein as from "about" or "approximately" one particular
value and/or to "about" or "approximately" another particular
value. When such a range is expressed, another embodiment includes
from the one particular value and/or to the other particular value.
Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of
the antecedent "about," it will be understood that the particular
value forms another embodiment.
[0032] With reference now to the drawing figures, example
embodiments of various aspects of the present invention are shown
and described. FIG. 1 shows a system 10, including a canister 20
containing a pressurized gas or liquid, for example pressurized
liquid CO.sub.2. The canister 20 may be for example a 20-ounce
CO.sub.2 tank, a 2-pound CO.sub.2 tank, a 5-pound CO.sub.2 tank, a
20-pound CO.sub.2 tank, or a 50-pound CO.sub.2 tank. A is mounted
to the canister 20, and includes fittings or couplings for a fill
attachment 32, a pressure-relief safety valve 34, a pressure
regulator valve and gauges 36, and/or a quick-release and
attachment coupling 38 for attachment to a hose 40 or fitting for
delivery of pressurized CO.sub.2 to drive a power tool or implement
42. FIG. 2 shows the internal boring of an example form of the
distribution block 30 in broken lines. The tool 42 is depicted as a
nail gun, but in other embodiments may take the form of, for
example, a stapler, a paint gun or roller, an impact wrench, a jack
or automotive lift, a pressurization fitting for leak-testing
plumbing or other conduits or vessels, and/or a spray applicator
for pesticides or other fluids, or other power-driven tool or
implement.
[0033] FIG. 3 shows an alternate embodiment of a drive system for
power tools or implements according to the invention. This
embodiment includes a plurality (two are shown) of CO.sub.2 tanks
or canisters 20, and one or more valved jumper(s) 60 connected
between successive tanks to permit the user to select either one of
the tanks, or both of the tanks in tandem, as the drive source for
a power tool. This embodiment provides a greater volume of
pressurized drive fluid, as for increased duration of use and/or
for applications requiring increased volumetric flow. The
dual-canister system also allows for weight balancing, for example
by allowing one canister 20a to be mounted on a belt or harness on
the left-hand side of a wearer's body, and the other canister 20b
to be mounted on the wearer's right-hand side.
[0034] FIG. 4 shows an alternate embodiment of the invention, for
example directed to a portable spray applicator for dispensing
pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers, or other fluid or fluidized
material. A first tank 20 contains the pressurized drive fluid,
which pressurizes a product tank 80 containing the material to be
dispensed, to permit the user to dispense product through a wand
and hose assembly 82. A fill coupling 84 extends from adjacent the
regulator 86, for allowing refilling of the pressurization tank 20.
One or more gauges 88, such as tank pressure gauge 88a and line
pressure gauge 88b are optionally provided to allow the user to
monitor tank pressure and working pressure delivered to the product
tank. The tanks 20, 80 are optionally contained in a shell 90 for
ease of portability. In example embodiments, the shell 90 takes the
form of a backpack having one or more shoulder straps 92, or other
user-wearable or hand-carried device. In another embodiment, shown
in example form in FIG. 5, the pressurization tank 20' is removably
installed in fluid communication with a pressurizable bladder or
reservoir 100 within the shell 90', which serves as the product
tank to contain the material to be dispensed.
[0035] FIGS. 6 and 7 show alternate forms of quick-disconnect
regulator and distribution block components for use with the
portable pressurized fluid drive system 110 of the present
invention. The distribution block 130 is preferably releasably
mounted to a canister 120 containing pressurized drive fluid,
substantially as disclosed above, for example by means of a
threaded coupling. Alternatively, the distribution block 130 is
permanently affixed to or integrally formed with the pressurization
canister 120. The distribution block 130 preferably comprises a
gate valve 132 for opening and closing fluid discharge from the
canister 120, a fill port coupling 134 for refilling the canister
when spent, a safety-release valve 136 for venting excess pressure
from the canister, and a quick-disconnect coupling 138 for
connection of the regulator assembly 140. The regulator assembly
140 preferably includes a high-pressure gauge 142 for displaying
the tank pressure within the canister 120 when valve 132 is open,
and a low-pressure gauge 144 for displaying the regulator discharge
pressure delivered to the tool. An adjustment knob 146 allows the
user to selectively control the regulator discharge pressure within
a range. A second quick-disconnect coupling 150 is preferably
provided for connection of the hose delivering drive fluid at the
regulated pressure to the tool.
[0036] FIGS. 8-13 depict a portable pressurized fluid drive system
210 according to another example embodiment of the invention. A
CO.sub.2 tank or canister 220 is preferably coupled via a length of
pneumatic hose 222 to drive a power tool such as a nail gun 224
(FIG. 10), a paint sprayer 226 (FIG. 11), an inflation hose 228
(FIG. 12), or an impact wrench 230 (FIG. 13). Of course in other
embodiments, the tool may take the form of, for example, a stapler,
a paint roller, an impact wrench, a jack or automotive lift, a
blower nozzle for cleaning, a pressurization fitting for
leak-testing plumbing or other conduits or vessels, a spray
applicator for pesticides or other fluids, and/or another
power-driven tool or implement. The hose 222 is preferably
connected to the pressurized drive system and/or the tool via
quick-connect and swivel couplings 234 for ease of use and to
resist tangling and kinking of the hose. The system can optionally
also include a tool belt or harness for holding the CO.sub.2
canister, the driven tool, and/or various associated implements
about the user's waist, and for hose management for safety and
convenience of use.
[0037] FIG. 8 shows an integral distribution block and pressure
regulator 250 in greater detail, according to an example form of
the invention. The integral distribution block and pressure
regulator 250 preferably comprises a lower housing 252 having
internal threads or other connection means for releasably coupling
with the canister 220, a fill coupling 254 for attachment to an
external fluid refill source for refilling the canister when spent,
a pressure-relief valve 256 for venting excess pressure from the
canister, a coupling for attachment of a line pressure indicating
gauge 258, a coupling for attachment of the quick disconnect
fitting 234, an upper housing or bell cover 260 for containing the
internal regulator components, and an adjustment knob 262 for
selectively controlling the line pressure output. The incorporation
of the pressure regulator, fill connection, safety release valve,
gauge coupling, and tool hose coupling into a compact integral
unitary distribution block assembly advantageously reduces the size
and weight of the system, improving portability and ease of use,
reducing manufacturing cost, and increasing durability. The
provision of a universal distribution block as shown, suitable for
attachment to various sizes of CO.sub.2 canisters, advantageously
permits the user to interchange canisters of different sizes with
the same tools and implements, depending on the scope of the
intended project and/or canister availability.
[0038] In preferred form, the integral distribution block and
pressure regulator 250 provides for connection of only a single
indicator gauge, namely line pressure display gauge 258; and no
gauge is provided for indicating the tank pressure or fill level of
the canister. It has been found that a tank pressure gauge provides
less accuracy than is generally desirable for indicating the level
of fluid fill remaining in the canister. Also, providing a tank
pressure gauge increases cost, decreases durability, and makes the
overall device bulkier and more cumbersome to use. Accordingly, the
system of the present invention preferably comprises a calibrated
digital or spring-based scale (such as are commonly used by
fishermen to weigh fish, for example), for measuring the weight of
the CO.sub.2 tank to indicate how much CO.sub.2 remains in the
tank. The scale may, for example, be mounted between the canister
220 and the canister bracket or carrier portion of the belt or
harness worn by the user, to provide an accurate indication of the
total weight of the canister and its contents. Also, the gauge 258
and line connector 234 preferably extend at acute angles relative
to the housing of the integral distribution block and pressure
regulator 250, in order to reduce the profile of the system and
minimize user interference and discomfort.
[0039] FIG. 9 is an exploded view of an integral distribution block
and pressure regulator 250 similar to that of FIG. 8, showing the
internal regulator components. Manual actuation of the adjustment
knob 262 allows a user to variably control the pressure and
volumetric flow rate of the compressed gas from within tank 220. As
the distal end of the screw 270 extending from the adjustment knob
262 presses on washer 272, the spring 274 is compressed. Pressure
is thereby exerted on the safety release valve 276. Safety release
valve 276 is concentrically surrounded by a rubber washer 278 and
forms a seal with the distributor block face 280. A second washer
282 rests on top of rubber washer 278 to help maintain a tight
seal. Safety release valve 276 presses on release pin 284, which
releases compressed gas from the tank. Release pin 284 is engaged
within bolt 286, which is screwed into the lower housing 252 of the
distributor block 250. A pressure distribution chamber is defined
between rubber washer 278 and the base of cavity 290. The base of
cavity 290 communicates compressed fluid at the regulated pressure
through ports 292 and 294 to the line pressure gauge 258 and to the
quick release coupling 234. A first threaded bore 296 in the lower
housing 252 receives the pressure gauge 258 for connection to the
distributor block 250, and a second threaded bore 298 receives the
quick-release coupling 234 for connection to the distributor block
to form the fluid discharge port for delivering regulated pressure
fluid to the tool, either directly or via a delivery conduit such
as a flexible hose. The threaded bores 296, 298 that receive the
pressure gauge and the discharge coupling are both preferably
oriented at an acute angle relative to the threaded bore in the
bottom of the lower housing 252 that engages the distribution block
to the canister 220, so that the installed gauge and coupling will
extend at a downward angle (See FIG. 8) toward the canister, to
minimize the system's overall profile. A threaded bore 300 receives
the fill coupling 254. In order to prevent the over-pressurization
of the distributor block, safety release mechanism 276 has a
release valve 302 that releases and discharges fluid if the
pressure exceeds a predetermined maximum. The over-pressurized
fluid is released to the surrounding environment by bleeding
through the threads of bell cover 260, and/or through one or more
relief holes drilled through the bell cover. In an alternate
embodiment, the pressure gauge 258 is optionally omitted, and a
slot is provided in the bell cover 260. An indicator finger
projecting from the washer 272 extends through the slot in the bell
cover, and moves up and down with the washer as the pressure is
adjusted. Numerical pressure indicia are engraved or imprinted on
the bell cover along the slot to indicate the pressure by alignment
with the indicator finger of the washer 272.
[0040] In its various embodiments, the system of the present
invention is compact and lightweight, and is particularly
well-suited for hand-portable applications. For example, as
described above, the system can be incorporated into a backpack or
other user-wearable or hand-carried device. Alternatively, the
replaceable CO.sub.2 tank may include a hook, clip or other
feature(s) to permit a user to carry the tank on his or her belt,
tool apron, or the like. Quick-release couplings are preferably
provided to permit the user to quickly and easily replace spent
CO.sub.2 cartridges, and/or to permit quick and easy
interchangeability of tools. A convenient length of hose preferably
couples the tank and the tool, to permit the user a full range of
motion in use, but to prevent tangling and/or tripping hazards.
Optionally, the hose is a self-coiling or self-retracting hose for
easier handling and all hose connections are fitted with a swivel
connector to prevent the hose from tangling.
[0041] In alternate embodiments of the invention, the system of the
present invention comprises a kit for provision as original
equipment or retrofit equipment for an automobile or other vehicle.
For example, a portable carrying case houses one or more
replaceable CO.sub.2 canisters or tanks; a hose, regulator and
coupling assembly; an impact wrench and socket for removing lug
nuts; and a CO.sub.2-powered jack adapted to raise the weight of
the vehicle. To change a tire, the user places the jack under the
vehicle, connects a CO.sub.2 tank to the jack, and actuates a valve
to direct CO.sub.2 to the jack to raise the vehicle. A CO.sub.2
tank is then connected to drive the impact wrench, which is used to
remove the lug nuts. The wheel is then removed and replaced with
the spare, and the lug nuts are replaced using the impact wrench.
The jack is then lowered by releasing the pressurized fluid.
[0042] In order to reduce the likelihood of freezing up of
equipment due to temperature drop from expansion of the CO.sub.2 as
the system is operated, it is preferred that the distribution block
be formed of a heat-conductive material such as aluminum, copper,
brass or other metal(s) or heat-conductive material(s), and have
sufficient mass to promote heat transfer to the working fluid. It
is further preferred that the hose extending between the CO.sub.2
tank and the tool be heat-conductive, and/or have a relatively high
length to diameter ratio (for example on the order of 60:1 or more)
to promote heat transfer to the working fluid. In addition, an in
line oiler 225 may be positioned between the distribution block and
the tool, as seen in FIG. 10, in order to provide lubrication or
antifreeze to the tool.
[0043] A further advantage to the system and method of the present
invention is that the use of CO.sub.2 as the drive fluid permits
the system to also serve dual purpose as a fire suppression device.
For example, the distribution block mounted to the CO.sub.2 tank
can include an emergency release mechanism to permit high-volume
discharge of CO.sub.2 through a hose and nozzle coupled thereto, in
similar fashion to the operation of a CO.sub.2 fire
extinguisher.
[0044] The present invention also encompasses a method of
distribution and use of a pressurized fluid drive system
substantially as disclosed. In example form, the method of the
present invention preferably comprises providing one or more
refillable canisters for containing a pressurized fluid for driving
a power tool, the canisters having a distribution block connected
thereto. The distribution block preferably includes a refill
coupling for attachment to an external source of pressurized fluid,
for refilling the canister when spent; and a coupling for
attachment of a power tool to receive the pressurized drive fluid
from the canister, for example via a hose or other fluid delivery
conduit. The canisters are preferably sold to users from various
supply locations in a pre-charged state, filled with pressurized
fluid and ready to use. In one embodiment, upon emptying the
canister, the end user can return the spent canister to a licensed
supplier, and exchange it for a full canister. The supplier then
inspects, tests, cleans, repairs (if necessary), and refills the
canister for resale and reuse. In alternate embodiments, the user
may return an empty canister to a supplier and have the tank
refilled for further use.
[0045] While the invention has been described with reference to
preferred and example embodiments, it will be understood by those
skilled in the art that a variety of modifications, additions and
deletions are within the scope of the invention, as defined by the
following claims. For example, although the drive fluid has been
described herein as utilizing CO.sub.2 as the drive fluid, it will
be understood that the invention also includes systems, equipment
and methods substantially as described, but utilizing compressed
air, compressed nitrogen, other compressed gasses, and/or mixtures
thereof, as the drive fluid(s).
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