U.S. patent application number 12/367177 was filed with the patent office on 2009-08-06 for dust collection apparatus for demolition tool.
Invention is credited to Ken Barnette, Chad J. Bradley, Carl P. Moore.
Application Number | 20090193614 12/367177 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 40930219 |
Filed Date | 2009-08-06 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090193614 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Moore; Carl P. ; et
al. |
August 6, 2009 |
DUST COLLECTION APPARATUS FOR DEMOLITION TOOL
Abstract
A dust collection device for attaching to a demolition tool
includes a hollow first body, a hollow second body, and a suction
tube. The hollow first body can be configured to connect with an
associated demolition tool. The hollow second body can connect with
the first body and the two bodies can cooperate to define an
internal space. The second body can be at least one of (i)
selectively removable from and reattachable to the first body at or
adjacent a distal end of the first body without damaging the first
body or the second body and (ii) rotatable with respect to the
first body. The suction tube can connect to at least one of the
first body and the second body. The suction tube can define a
passage in fluid communication with the internal space.
Inventors: |
Moore; Carl P.; (Macedonia,
OH) ; Bradley; Chad J.; (Sagamore Hills, OH) ;
Barnette; Ken; (Hilliard, OH) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Fay Sharpe LLP
1228 Euclid Avenue, 5th Floor, The Halle Building
Cleveland
OH
44115
US
|
Family ID: |
40930219 |
Appl. No.: |
12/367177 |
Filed: |
February 6, 2009 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61063730 |
Feb 6, 2008 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
15/347 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B25D 17/20 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
15/347 |
International
Class: |
A47L 9/00 20060101
A47L009/00 |
Claims
1. A dust collection device for attaching to a demolition tool, the
device comprising: a hollow first body being configured to connect
with the associated demolition tool; a hollow second body connected
with the first body, the two bodies cooperating to define an
internal space, the second body being at least one of (i)
selectively removable from and reattachable to the first body at or
adjacent a distal end of the first body without damaging the first
body or the second body and (ii) rotatable with respect to the
first body; and a suction tube connected to at least one of the
first body and the second body, the suction tube defining a passage
in fluid communication the internal space.
2. The device of claim 1, wherein the second body is rotatable with
respect to the first body and the suction tube is joined to the
second body.
3. The device of claim 2, further comprising a third body, wherein
the third body is selectively removable from and reattachable to
the second body at or adjacent a distal end of the second body
without damaging the second body or the third body.
4. The device of claim 1, wherein the second body is selectively
removable from and reattachable to the first body at or adjacent a
distal end of the first body without damaging the first body or the
second body, and the second body is more flexible than the first
body.
5. The device of claim 4, wherein the second body includes a flange
and the first body includes a ridge, the flange engaging the ridge
to selectively attach the first body to the second body.
6. The device of claim 1, wherein the first body includes a section
adjacent a proximal end for receiving the associated demolition
tool.
7. The device of claim 6, further comprising an insert received in
the section adjacent the proximal end of the first body, the insert
including an opening for receiving the associated demolition
tool.
8. In combination: a demolition tool including a housing and a
movable working bit connected with a locking sleeve, the working
bit being selectively removable from the locking sleeve for
replacement thereof; and a dust collection guard mounted to the
housing of the demolition tool for removing at least a portion of
dust generated when the movable working bit works on a work
surface, the guard comprising: a hollow first body connected to the
housing of the demolition tool, a hollow second body connected at
or adjacent a distal end of the first body to define an internal
space, the second body being either (i) selectively removable from
and reattachable to the first body without damaging the first body
or the second body or (ii) rotatable with respect to the first
body, and a suction tube connected to the first body or the second
body and defining a passage in fluid communication with the
internal space.
9. The combination of claim 8, wherein the second body is
selectively removable from and reattachable to the first body at or
adjacent a distal end of the first body without damaging the first
body or the second body and the locking sleeve of the demolition
tool is accessible when the second body is removed from the first
body while the first body is still attached to the demolition tool,
such that the locking sleeve can be maneuvered to remove the bit
from the demolition tool.
10. The combination of claim 8, wherein the second body is (i)
selectively removable from and reattachable to the first body
without damaging the first body or the second body and (ii)
rotatable with respect to the first body, and wherein the locking
sleeve of the demolition tool is accessible when the second body is
removed from the first body while the first body is still attached
to the demolition tool, such that the locking sleeve can be
maneuvered to remove the bit from the demolition tool.
11. The combination of claim 8, wherein the second body is
rotatable with respect to the first body, and the combination
further comprising a third body connected with a distal end of the
second body.
12. The combination of claim 8, further comprising means for
removing and attaching the second body to the first body.
13. The combination of claim 12, wherein the means for removing and
attaching comprises at least one of a clamp, a bayonet connection,
a screw connection, a latch, and a friction fit.
14. The combination of claim 8, wherein the means for removing and
attaching comprises a connection that is made without the use of
hand tools.
15. A dust collection guard comprising: a hollow first body
configured to attach to an associated demolition tool; a hollow
second body rotatably connected to the first body at or adjacent a
distal end of the first body, the first body and the second body
together defining an enclosed space, wherein the second body is
rotatable with respect to the first body about an axis; and a
suction tube connected with the second body, the suction tube
defining a passage in fluid communication with the enclosed
space.
16. The guard of claim 15, wherein the second body is selectively
removable from and reattachable to the first body without damaging
the first body or the second body.
17. The guard of claim 15, wherein the second body defines an inlet
opening at a distal end and a suction opening leading from the
enclosed space to the passage, and the suction tube connects with
an associated vacuum source, the suction tube having a mass which
results in the second body rotating with respect to the first body
as the associated demolition tool is moved.
18. The guard of claim 15, further comprising a third hollow body
connected to a proximal end of the second body.
19. The guard of claim 18, wherein the third hollow body is more
flexible than the second hollow body.
20. The guard of claim 15, further comprising an adapter connected
at a proximal end of the first body, the adapter including a body
having an opening for accommodating a housing of the associated
demolition tool.
Description
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Ser. No.
61/063,730 filed Feb. 6, 2008, the entirety of which is
incorporated by reference herein.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] This application generally relates to a dust collecting
apparatus. More particularly, this application is generally
directed to a dust collecting apparatus for use with a demolition
tool.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Dust collection devices that attach to various types of
tools are known. Typically, the dust collection device includes a
shroud that surrounds a working member or bit of the tool. A
demolition tool with a dust collection device is known. It is
desirable to collect dust during building or other concrete or
brick demolition operations to reduce the amount of airborne
crystalline silica or quartz dust. The U.S. Department of Labor
Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) has placed
special emphasis on limiting worker exposure to airborne dust.
Accordingly, there have been many attempts to control airborne
dust.
[0004] One problem with previous attempts to control dust using a
device connected to a demolition tool is that many dust collection
devices obscure the working bit of the demolition tool, which makes
it difficult for the operator of the tool to see the area that he
is working with the bit. Another problem with prior attempts to
control dust using a dust collection device that is attached to a
demolition tool is that for known dust collection devices the
entire dust collection device must be removed from the tool, e.g.,
the entire shroud must be removed, in order to remove the bit from
the tool. If the working bit needs to be changed, for example, if
the working bit has worn out or another size bit needs to replace
the bit already attached to the tool, requiring the removal of the
entire dust separation device from the tool can be time
consuming.
[0005] Other known dust collection devices include very flexible
shrouds. These known dust collection devices which are employed on
machine tools and the like are very practical when used with a tool
where the working member is vertically oriented during use. Because
of the flexibility of the shroud, however, these dust collection
devices are not amenable for use with a tool that is used where the
bit is oriented diagonally or horizontally.
[0006] Other known dust collection devices include a shroud
connected with the percussive working bit. These devices result in
the shroud moving. Where the shroud connects with a vacuum hose,
the movement of the shroud results in movement of one end of the
hose. This can result in premature wear of the hose, as compared to
a hose that would remain relatively stationary. Moreover,
connecting the shroud directly to the bit can make removal of the
shroud from the bit difficult. Where the shroud is permanently
fixed to the bit a different shroud is required for each different
bit that is to be used with the tool.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] A dust collection device for attaching to a demolition tool
that can overcome the aforementioned shortcomings, along with other
shortcomings that may have not been mentioned, includes a hollow
first body, a hollow second body, and a suction tube. The hollow
first body can be configured to connect with an associated
demolition tool. The hollow second body can connect with the first
body and the two bodies can cooperate to define an internal space.
The second body can be at least one of (i) selectively removable
from and reattachable to the first body at or adjacent a distal end
of the first body without damaging the first body or the second
body and (ii) rotatable with respect to the first body. The suction
tube can connect to at least one of the first body and the second
body. The suction tube can define a passage in fluid communication
with the internal space.
[0008] Another example of an assembly that can overcome the
aforementioned shortcomings, along with other shortcomings that may
not have been mentioned above, includes a demolition tool and a
dust collection guard mounted to the demolition tool. The
demolition tool includes a housing and a movable working bit
connected with a locking sleeve. The working bit can be selectively
removable from the locking sleeve for replacement thereof. The dust
collection guard can mount to the housing of the demolition tool
for removing at least a portion of dust generated when the movable
working bit works on a work surface. The guard can comprise a
hollow first body, a hollow second body, and a suction tube. The
hollow first body can connect to the housing of the demolition
tool. The hollow second body can connect at or adjacent a distal
end of the first body to define an internal space. The second body
can be either (i) selectively removable from and reattachable to
the first body without damaging the first body or the second body
or (ii) rotatable with respect to the first body. The suction tube
can connect to the first body or the second body and can define a
passage in fluid communication with the internal space.
[0009] Another example of a dust collection guard includes a hollow
first body, a hollow second body and a suction tube. The hollow
first body is configured to attach to an associated demolition
tool. The hollow second body can rotatably connect to the first
body at or adjacent a distal end of the first body. The first body
and the second body together can define an enclosed space. The
second body can be rotatable with respect to the first body about
an axis. The suction tube can connect with the second body. The
suction tube can define a passage in fluid communication with the
enclosed space.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a demolition tool having a
dust collection device, shown in longitudinal cross section,
attached to the demolition tool. A suction source is schematically
depicted in FIG. 1.
[0011] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the dust collection device
depicted in FIG. 1 and an adapter for the dust collection
device.
[0012] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of an alternative
embodiment of a dust collection device similar to the device
depicted in FIG. 1.
[0013] FIGS. 4A-4D depict alternative manners in which a first body
of a dust collection device can attach to a second body of a dust
collection device.
[0014] FIG. 5 is a side elevation view of another embodiment of a
dust collection device. Components of the device are shown
disconnected from one another.
[0015] FIG. 6 is a side elevation view of yet another embodiment of
a dust collection device. Components of the device are shown
disconnected from one another.
DETAILED DESRIPTION
[0016] With reference to FIG. 1, a demolition tool 10 and a dust
collection device 12 are shown. The demolition tool 10 depicted in
FIG. 1 is also known in the art as a demolition hammer. Even though
a particular demolition tool is depicted in FIG. 1 with the dust
collection device 12, the dust collection device can be used with
other demolition tools. The particular demolition tool 10 shown in
FIG. 1 can be used where the tool is used in what is referred to as
a generally horizontal orientation, which will be described in more
detail below. Nevertheless, the demolition tool 10 can be used
diagonally as well as vertically and the dust collection device 12
is amenable for use in these orientations as well.
[0017] The demolition tool 10 in the depicted embodiment includes a
housing 14 that houses internal components to drive a bit 16. These
internal components can be conventional, therefore further
description thereof is not provided. The bit 16 shown in the
depicted embodiment generally reciprocates along an axis 20 such
that a working (distal) end 18 of the bit contacts the structure
that is to be demolished using the demolition tool 10. Other
demolition tools may have the working bit rotate about a central
axis, and the dust collection device 12 shown in FIG. 1 can also be
used with these demolition tools. With reference back to the
embodiment depicted in FIG. 1, the bit 16 connects with a locking
sleeve 22. In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 1, the working bit 16
is selectively removable from and reattachable with the locking
sleeve for replacement of the bit 16. In other words, other bits
having different distal ends can fit with the locking sleeve 22.
The locking sleeve 22 extends from the housing 14. More particular
to the design shown in FIG. 1, the locking sleeve 22 extends from a
substantially cylindrical section 24 of the housing 14.
[0018] The demolition tool 10 also includes a handle 26, which in
the depicted embodiment extends from a rear wall of the housing 14.
The handle 26 shown in FIG. 1 is oriented generally perpendicular
to the bit 16 and the axis 20 about which or along which the bit 16
generally moves.
[0019] With continued reference to FIG. 1, the dust collection
device 12, which can also be referred to as a dust collection
guard, generally includes a hollow first body 30, a hollow second
body 32, and a suction tube 34. The dust collection device 12
attaches to the housing 14 of the demolition tool 10 using a band
clamp 36 in the embodiment depicted in FIG. 1; however, the dust
collection device can attach to the demolition tool in other
conventional manners, e.g. other conventional connectors. The dust
collection device 12 is made from a rigid enough material, e.g.,
metal, plastic or a composite material, such that when the
demolition tool is used in a generally horizontal and/or diagonal
configuration, the dust collection device 12 remains vertically
spaced from the locking sleeve 22 and the bit 16 so that these
components can move without contacting the dust collection
device.
[0020] In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 1, the hollow first body
30, which can also be referred to as a main body, includes a
relatively rigid section 38 configured to be gripped by an operator
of the demolition tool 10. Since the dust collection device 12, and
more particularly, the main body 30, connects with the housing 14
of the demolition tool 12, the rigid section 38 does not move with
the bit 16. More particular to the embodiment disclosed in FIG. 1,
the entire hollow main body 30 can be relatively rigid; however, it
can also be desirable for the main body to be flexible enough so
that the band clamp 36 can compress the main body to attach the
dust collection device 12 to the housing 14 of the demolition tool
10. The rigid section 38 of the main body 30 can provide a hand
grip section 38 of the main body 30 so that an operator of the
demolition tool 10 can grip the handle 26 of the demolition tool
with one hand and the relatively rigid hand grip section 38 with
the other hand to support the demolition tool during a demolition
operation. Also, a portion of the section 38 can be indented or
otherwise configured to better accommodate the fingers of the
operator.
[0021] With continued reference to FIG. 1, the hollow main body 30
includes a distal end 40, which is adjacent the bit 16 when the
dust collection device 12 is attached to the demolition tool 10.
The hollow main body 30 also includes a proximal end 42, which is
adjacent the housing 14 of the demolition tool when the dust
collection device 12 is attached to the demolition tool. The hollow
main body 30 also includes an enlarged section 50 adjacent the
proximal end 42 for receiving the demolition tool 10. A tapered
(transition) section 52 extends forwardly from the enlarged section
toward the proximal end 40 of the main body 30. A reduced section
54 extends forwardly from the tapered section 52 toward the
proximal end 40. In the depicted embodiment, the reduced section 54
has a circular cross section taken normal to a central elongate
axis, which is coaxial with the axis 20 along which the bit 16
generally reciprocates. The reduced section 54 can take other
configurations in cross section, such as rectangular or elliptical.
In the depicted embodiment, the enlarged section 50 has a
rectangular (square) cross section taken normal to the axis 20
along which the bit 16 generally reciprocates. Where the housing 14
of the demolition tool 10 has an alternative configuration, the
enlarged section 50 may have a complementary cross-sectional shape
such that the dust collection device 12 fits snugly onto the
housing 14. The enlarged section 50 needs to be limited in length
in order that it not cover the air vents 48 on the housing of the
demolition tool 14. The air vents 48 are provided to cool the drive
mechanism (not shown) in the housing 14 of the tool. Thus, the
length of the section 50 is generally around 11/2 to 2 inches. The
tapered section 52 transitions from the rectangular (square)
cross-sectional shape of the enlarged section 50 into the circular
cross-sectional shape of the reduced section 54.
[0022] With continued reference to FIG. 1, in the depicted
embodiment the clearance between the reduced section 54 and the
cylindrical housing portion 24 of the demolition tool 12 can be
minimal, and if desired, an internal surface of the reduced section
54 can contact an outer surface of the cylindrical housing portion
24 of the demolition tool 10. In the depicted embodiment, the
reduced section 54 is longer in axial length than the enlarged
section 50. The distal end 40 of the main body 30 terminates near
the locking sleeve 22 of the demolition tool 10 so that the locking
sleeve of the demolition tool is accessible when the distal member
32 of the dust collection device 12 is removed from the main body
30, while the main body remains attached to the demolition tool.
This allows the locking sleeve 22 to be maneuvered to remove the
bit 16 from the demolition tool 10 while the main body 30 is still
attached to the demolition tool. In the embodiment depicted in FIG.
1, the hollow main body 30 also includes an annular ridge 56
adjacent the distal end 40 that is contacted by the hollow distal
member 32 when the hollow distal member is attached to the main
body 30. As more clearly seen in FIG. 2, the main body 30 also
includes a channel 58 near the proximal end 42 for receiving the
band clamp 36 that attaches the main body 30 to the housing 14 of
the demolition tool 10.
[0023] With continued reference to FIG. 2, an adapter 70 can be
provided to allow the dust collection device 12 to be more easily
accommodated on demolition tools having different configurations.
With reference to the embodiment depicted in FIG. 2, the adapter 70
can include a block-shaped body 72 having an opening 74 extending
therethrough. The block-shaped body 72 is shaped to be snuggly
received in the enlarged section 50 of the hollow main body 30
adjacent the proximal end. In view of this, if the enlarged section
50 of the hollow main body 30 were to take an alternative
configuration, the body 72 of the adapter 70 would also take an
alternative configuration. The opening 74 through the hollow main
body 72 in the depicted embodiment is circular in cross section
taken normal to an axial direction of the opening 74. Such a
configuration would be desirable where the housing of the
demolition tool to which the dust collection device is meant to be
attached would have a similar cylindrical configuration. In view of
this, the opening 74 can also take alternative configurations to
match the configuration of the housing of the demolition tool to
which the dust collection device 12 is to attach. Alternatively,
the adapter 70 can connect with the main body 30 by another
connection rather than being inserted into the main body. For
example, the adapter could receive the main body or another
conventional connector (not shown) could be used to attach the main
body to the adapter.
[0024] With reference back to FIG. 1, the hollow second body 32,
which can also be referred to as a boss or a hollow distal member,
is selectively removable from and reattachable to the main body 30
at or adjacent the distal end 40 of the main body. In the depicted
embodiment, the distal member 32 and the main body 30 together
define an internal space 80. With continued reference to the
depicted embodiment in FIG. 1, the distal member 32 has a shorter
axial dimension than the main body 30. Because of this, the locking
sleeve 22 of the demolition tool 10 is accessible when the distal
member, or boss, 32 is removed from the main body 30 while the main
body is still attached to the demolition tool. This allows the
locking sleeve 22 to be maneuvered to remove the bit 16 from the
demolition tool 10 when the distal member 32 is removed from the
main body 30 while the main body is still attached to the
demolition tool.
[0025] In the depicted embodiment, the distal member 32 is made
from a more flexible material than the relatively rigid section 38
of the main body 30. The distal member 32, however, can still be
rigid enough so that a clearance remains between the distal member
and the working bit 16 when the working bit is held horizontal. The
internal diameter of the distal member 32 is spaced further from
the bit 16 (shown in FIG. 1) than the internal diameter of the main
body 30 is spaced from the cylindrical housing portion 24. The
distal member 32 is made from a more flexible material than the
main body 30 so that when the demolition tool 10 is laid on the
ground, the distal member 30 can bend or flex to contact the bit 16
without breaking. If the distal member 32 were made from a material
as rigid as the main body 30, when the demolition tool 10 is laid
on the ground with the dust collection device 12 attached thereto,
the weight of the bit 16 and the tool 10 may result in the dust
collection device coming loose from the demolition tool, which
would be undesirable.
[0026] In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 1, the distal member 32
has a circular configuration in a cross section taken normal to an
axial dimension of the distal member 32. The configuration of the
distal member 32 can also be altered so that the cross-sectional
shape of the distal member is rectangular, elliptical or some or
polygonal shape. The distal member includes a proximal end 82
adjacent where the distal member 32 connects with the main body 30
and a free (distal) end 84. A portion of the bit 16, which in the
depicted embodiment is the distal end 18, extends past the distal
end 84 of the distal member 32. A portion of the bit 16 is also
disposed in the internal space 80 and is surrounded by the distal
member 32. Since the distal end 18 of the bit 16 extends past the
free end 84 of the distal member 32, the operator of the demolition
tool 10 can see the distal end 18 of the bit 16, which is very
advantageous for the operator. With the disclosed device, the
operator of the demolition tool can see the area worked by the bit.
In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 1, the proximal end 82 of the
distal member 32 contacts the flange 56 of the main body 30 when
the distal member 32 is attached to the main body. The distal
member 32 can be attached to the main body 30 via a friction fit,
as in FIG. 1. Alternative ways for attaching the distal member 32
to the main body 30 will be described in more detail below.
[0027] With continued reference to FIG. 1, the suction tube 34
connects to at least one of the main body 30 and the distal member
32. More specific to the embodiment depicted in FIG. 1, the suction
tube 34 connects to and extends from the main body 30. The main
body 30 includes a suction opening 88. In the embodiment depicted
in FIG. 1, the suction tube 34 is integrally formed with the main
body 30. In alternative embodiments, the suction tube can join or
unite with the main body 30 using a conventional connector. As
another example, the suction tube could be inserted into the
suction opening 88 formed in the main body 30. The suction tube 34
extends from the main body 30 at a location spaced from the distal
end 40 of the main body moving towards the proximal end 42. The
suction tube 34 shown in FIG. 1 is made from a rigid material;
however, the suction tube can also be made to be flexible.
[0028] The suction tube 34 in the embodiment depicted in FIG. 1
defines a passage 90 that is in fluid communication with the
internal space 80 and is also in fluid communication with a suction
source 92 via a hose 94 (depicted schematically in FIG. 1), which
can be considered an extension of the suction tube. In the
embodiment depicted in FIG. 1, the suction tube 34 is angled with
respect to the main body 30 and the distal body 32 to form an
obtuse angle measured from the distal end 40 of the main body to
the suction tube 34. Of course, other angles of the suction tube in
relation to the main body or the distal member are also
contemplated.
[0029] In use, an operator operates the demolition tool 10 to
demolish a structure, such as a concrete or block wall, whereby the
distal end 18 of the bit 16 percussively hammers against the work
surface. The suction source 92 draws airborne dust through an inlet
96 defined by the hollow distal member 32 and into the internal
space 80. The airborne dust travels from the internal space 80 into
the passage 90 defined by the suction tube 34 and through the hose
94 towards the suction source 92, where the dust is collected.
[0030] FIG. 3 depicts another embodiment of a dust collection
device 112. Since most of the structure and function of the dust
collection device 112 depicted in FIG. 3 is quite similar to the
embodiment depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2, only the differences between
the embodiments will be discussed in detail. With reference to FIG.
3, the dust collection device 112 includes a hollow first body 130,
which is similar to the hollow main body 30 depicted in FIGS. 1 and
2. The dust collection device 112 depicted in FIG. 3 also includes
a hollow second body 132, which is similar to the hollow distal
member 32 depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2. The dust collection device 112
in FIG. 3 also includes a suction tube 134 which is similar to the
suction tube 34 depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2. If desired, the tube 134
can have a flexible section 136 so that its orientation can be
adjusted. The embodiment depicted in FIG. 3 also differs from the
embodiment depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2 because of a handle 138 that
extends from and is connected with the main body 130. A similar
handle configuration could be employed with the embodiment depicted
in FIGS. 1 and 2.
[0031] The main body 130 in the embodiment depicted in FIG. 3
includes a distal end 142. The main body 130 also includes a first
annular ridge 144 spaced from a second annular ridge 146 to define
a channel 148. The annular ridges 144 and 146 extend radially
outward from an external surface of the main body 130 near the
distal end 142 of the main body. The hollow distal member 132 also
includes a proximal end 150.
[0032] Similar to the embodiment described with reference to FIGS.
1 and 2, the hollow distal member 132 is selectively removable from
and reattachable to the main body 130 at or adjacent the distal end
142 of the main body. The distal member 132 includes a radially
inwardly extending flange 152, which is annular in the depicted
embodiment. The flange 152 fits into the channel 148 to connect the
hollow distal member 132 to the hollow main body 130. The proximal
end 150 of the distal member 132 can be referred to as a relatively
flexible section of the distal member and at least one of the first
ridge 144 and the second ridge 146 can be referred to as a
relatively rigid portion of the main body 130. The relatively
flexible section of the hollow distal member engages the relatively
rigid portion of the main body to attach the distal member 132 to
the main body. More particular to the embodiment shown in FIG. 3,
the distal member 132 is more flexible than the main body 130 (at
least at the ends that engage one another) such that the flange 152
rides over the distal-most ridge 144 and seats in the channel 148
to connect the hollow distal member 132 to the main body 130.
[0033] With continued reference to FIG. 3, the distal member 132
has an accordion configuration. An innermost (closest to the axial
centerline of the distal member 132) internal diameter of the
distal member is smaller than or about equal to the internal
diameter of the main body 130. An outermost internal diameter of
the distal member 132 is slightly larger than or about equal to the
inner diameter of the main body 130.
[0034] Two manners of attaching and removing the distal member 32,
132 to the main body 30, 132 have been described. Other means for
removing and reattaching the distal member (second body) to the
main body (first body) without damaging the distal member or the
main body are shown in FIGS. 4A-4D. Some of the means for removing
and reattaching the distal member 32, 132 to the main body 30, 130
do not require the use of tools. This enables the operator of the
demolition tool 10 to easily change the bit 16, which may be
performed very frequently during a demolition operation, without
requiring the operator to locate a tool to remove the distal member
from the main body.
[0035] FIG. 4A depicts an example of a means for removing and
reattaching the distal member 32 to the main body 30 without
damaging the distal member or the main body. A connector 200, such
as a band clamp, can be used to provide a means for removing and
reattaching the distal member 32 to the main body 30.
[0036] FIG. 4B depicts an alternative means for removing and
reattaching a distal member 232 to a main body 230. The distal
member 232 is similar in construction and configuration to the
distal member 32 shown in FIG. 1. The main body 230 shown in FIG.
4B is similar in construction and configuration to the main body 30
shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 4B shows an example of a connector such as a
bayonet connection. In this example, the main body 230 includes
L-shaped channels 236 that cooperate with protrusions 238 to
connect the distal member 232 to the main body 230. Alternatively,
the channels could be formed in the distal member 232 and the
protrusions could be provided on the main body 230 to provide a
means for removing and reattaching the distal member 232 to the
main body 230 without damaging the distal member 232 or the main
body 230.
[0037] FIG. 4C depicts yet another example of means for removing
and reattaching a distal member 332 to a main body 330 without
damaging the distal member or the main body. In this example, the
main body includes external threads 336 that cooperate with
internal threads 338 formed on an internal surface of the distal
member 332. The distal member 332 is similar to the distal member
32 shown in FIG. 1 and the main body 330 is similar to the main
body 30 shown in FIG. 1. If desired, external threads can be
provided on the distal member 332 and internal threads can be
provided on the main body 330.
[0038] FIG. 4D depicts yet another example of means for removing
and reattaching a distal member 432 to a main body 430 without
damaging the distal member or the main body. In this example, the
distal member 432 includes a connector such as latches 434 that
cooperate with an annular ridge 436 formed on the main body to
connect the distal member to the main body. Alternatively, the main
body could be provided with latches and the distal member could be
provided with a ridge that cooperates with the latches. Other
connectors that allow for removing and reattaching the distal
member from the main body without damaging the distal member or the
main body can also be provided.
[0039] FIG. 5 depicts another embodiment of a dust collection
device 512. Since most of the structure and function of the dust
collection device 512 depicted in FIG. 5 is quite similar to the
embodiment depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2, only the differences between
the embodiments will be discussed in detail. With reference to FIG.
5, a dust collection device 512 includes a hollow first body 530,
which is similar to the hollow main body 30 depicted in FIGS. 1 and
2. The dust collection device 512 depicted in FIG. 5 also includes
a hollow second body 532, which is similar to the hollow distal
member 32 depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2. More particular to the
embodiment depicted in FIG. 5, the second body can include a
restriction 536 adjacent a distal portion 538, which can have a
flexible accordion configuration. The dust collection device 512 in
FIG. 5 also includes a suction tube 534, which is similar to the
suction tube 34 depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2. More particular to the
embodiment depicted in FIG. 5, the suction tube 534 is joined to
the second body 532.
[0040] In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 5, the second body 532
connects to the first body to define an internal space 580. More
specific to the embodiment depicted in FIG. 5, the second body 532
connects with the first body 530 and the second body is rotatable
with respect to the first body. One example of a rotatable-type
connection is shown in FIG. 5; however other connections that would
allow the second body to rotate with respect to the first body
could be employed.
[0041] In FIG. 5, the first body 530 includes a channel 540 formed
on an inner surface adjacent a distal end 542 of the first body
530. The first body 530 is configured to connect to a demolition
tool, such as the demolition tool 10 shown in FIG. 1, adjacent a
proximal end 544. The second body 532 includes an annular
protuberance 546 (or plurality of protuberances) which fits into
the channel 540 formed in the first body 530. The protuberance 546
fits in the channel 540 in such a manner to allow the second body
532 to rotate with respect to the first body. When the first body
530 is fixably attached to a demolition tool, i.e. the first body
is unable to rotate with respect to the demolition tool, and the
suction tube 534 is connected with a vacuum source, the second body
532 can rotate with respect to the first body 530 about an axis
548, which is generally a central axis for the dust suppression
device 512 and the axis in which the working bit moves. Such a
connection is desirable since the vacuum source will typically
remain stationary during much of a demolition process while the
operator of the demolition tool moves the demolition tool along a
work surface. The rotatable portion of the dust collection device
512 being connected with the suction tube allows this portion to
move so that the operator of the demolition tool is less likely to
have to maneuver the demolition tool to avoid the long suction tube
that is attached to the vacuum source. As mentioned above, other
manners for providing a rotatable connection between the first body
530 and the second body 532 can also be utilized. Moreover, the
first body 530 can be received in the second body 532 to make the
connection between the two bodies while allowing the second body to
rotate with respect to the first body about the axis.
[0042] FIG. 6 depicts another embodiment of a dust collection
device 612. Since most of the structure and function of the dust
collection device 612 depicted in FIG. 6 is quite similar to the
embodiment depicted in FIG. 5, only the differences between the
embodiments will be discussed in detail. With reference to FIG. 6,
the dust collection device 612 includes a hollow first body 630, a
hollow second body 632, a suction tube 634, and a hollow third body
636. The first body 630 includes a distal end 642 and a proximal
end 644. The first body 630 also includes a channel 640, which is
similar to the channel 540 shown in FIG. 5. The second body 632
includes a protuberance 646 disposed adjacent a proximal end 648.
The protuberance 646 could be an annular ridge. Additionally, a
plurality of protuberances could surround the circumference of the
second body 632 adjacent the proximal end 648.
[0043] The suction tube 634 is depicted schematically in FIG. 6.
The second body 632 can include a suction opening 652 and the
suction tube 634 could be inserted into the suction opening 652.
This configuration could also be used with the embodiments
disclosed above.
[0044] The third body 636 can be selectively removable from and
reattachable to the second body 632 at or adjacent the distal end
654 of the second body without damaging the second body or the
third body. In the depicted embodiment, the third body 636 includes
a counter bore 662 adjacent a proximal end 664 of the third body
636. When the dust collecting device 612 is attached to a
demolition tool, the locking sleeve of the demolition tool can be
situated near where the second body 632 connects with the third
body 636. This is useful so that when the first body 630 and the
second body 632 are connected with the demolition tool, and the
operator wishes to change the bit connected with the demolition
tool, the operator removes the third body 636 from the second body
632 and can maneuver the locking sleeve. The second body 632 and
the third body 636 can rotate with respect to the first body 630
via the connection that is shown about an axis 648.
[0045] The disclosure is particularly adapted for a hand-held
demolition tool which needs to be moved from place to place and
oriented at various angles during use, and in which the tool bit
needs to be replaced during use of the tool. However, the tip of
the tool bit needs to be visible past the dust collection device so
that the tool can be used as intended.
[0046] Several embodiments of a dust collection device and a dust
collection guard have been described herein. Modifications and
alterations will occur to those upon reading and understanding the
preceding detailed description. Moreover, aspects of each
embodiment could be employed or integrated into other embodiments.
It is intended that the illustrated embodiments be construed as
including all such modifications and alterations, in so far as they
come within the scope of the appended claims or the equivalents
thereof.
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