U.S. patent application number 17/644983 was filed with the patent office on 2022-07-14 for power tool with multiple modes of operation and ergonomic handgrip.
The applicant listed for this patent is Black & Decker Inc.. Invention is credited to Michael Allen, Ross A. Billings, Wesson Charles, Robert J. Cirincione, II, Paul J. Korick, Sona Mathew, Jason McKillican, Curtiss Morton, Madhur M. Purohit, Michael Sikora, BhanuPrakash Villuri.
Application Number | 20220219309 17/644983 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | |
Filed Date | 2022-07-14 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220219309 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Billings; Ross A. ; et
al. |
July 14, 2022 |
POWER TOOL WITH MULTIPLE MODES OF OPERATION AND ERGONOMIC
HANDGRIP
Abstract
A power tool includes a housing having a motor housing portion,
a transmission housing portion, and a handle portion. The motor
housing portion includes a top surface generally opposite a bottom
surface. A motor is disposed in the motor housing portion. A
transmission is disposed in the transmission housing portion. A
power switch is disposed on the handle portion. An electronic mode
select switch is disposed on a surface of the motor housing
portion. A first gripping region is on a top portion of the motor
housing portion, a second gripping region is on the handle portion,
and a third gripping region is on a bottom portion of the motor
housing portion. The first gripping region includes a first concave
recess on a first side of the motor housing portion and a second
concave recess on a second side of the motor housing portion.
Inventors: |
Billings; Ross A.;
(Reisterstown, MD) ; Charles; Wesson; (Rosedale,
MD) ; Allen; Michael; (Damascus, MD) ; Mathew;
Sona; (Towson, MD) ; Sikora; Michael;
(Baltimore, MD) ; Morton; Curtiss; (Baltimore,
MD) ; Cirincione, II; Robert J.; (Towson, MD)
; Villuri; BhanuPrakash; (Towson, MD) ; Korick;
Paul J.; (New Cumberland, PA) ; Purohit; Madhur
M.; (Ellicott City, MD) ; McKillican; Jason;
(Baltimore, MD) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Black & Decker Inc. |
New Britain |
CT |
US |
|
|
Appl. No.: |
17/644983 |
Filed: |
December 17, 2021 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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17456420 |
Nov 24, 2021 |
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17644983 |
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63199108 |
Dec 7, 2020 |
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International
Class: |
B25F 5/02 20060101
B25F005/02; B25G 1/10 20060101 B25G001/10; B25F 5/00 20060101
B25F005/00; B25D 16/00 20060101 B25D016/00 |
Claims
1. A power tool comprising: a housing including a motor housing
portion, a transmission housing portion coupled to the motor
housing portion, and a handle portion coupled to and extending
transverse to a bottom surface of the motor housing portion, the
motor housing portion including a top surface generally opposite
the bottom surface; a motor at least partially disposed in the
motor housing portion; a motor controller disposed in the housing
and in electrical communication with the motor; a transmission
disposed at least partially in the transmission housing portion; a
tool accessory holder configured to be driven by the motor via the
transmission and configured to receive a tool accessory for
performing an operation on a workpiece; a power switch actuatable
from outside the housing and in electrical communication with the
motor controller to control power delivery to the motor; and an
electronic mode select switch coupled to and actuatable from
outside the motor housing portion, the electronic mode select
switch in electrical communication with the motor controller,
wherein the power switch and the electronic mode select switch are
configured to be simultaneously actuatable by a user with one hand
while gripping the housing with the one hand in a position for
actuating the power switch to control power delivery to the motor
and actuating the electronic mode select switch to change a mode of
operation of the power tool.
2. The power tool of claim 1, wherein: the power switch is disposed
on the handle portion; and the electronic mode select switch is
disposed on the top surface of the motor housing portion.
3. The power tool of claim 2, wherein the power switch is disposed
along at least half of the handle portion.
4. The power tool of claim 2, wherein the handle portion includes a
finger rest recess as a gripping location by a finger of the one
hand of the user.
5. The power tool of claim 4, wherein the finger rest recess is
axially forward of the power switch on the bottom surface of the
motor housing portion.
6. The power tool of claim 1, wherein: the motor housing portion
defines a first concave recess on a first side of the motor housing
portion and a second concave recess on a second side of the motor
housing portion, the second side of the motor housing portion
opposite the first side of the motor housing portion; the first
concave recess provides a first grip area for a thumb of the one
hand of the user; and the second concave recess provides a second
grip area for a forefinger of the one hand of the user.
7. A power tool comprising: a housing defining a tool axis, the
housing including a motor housing portion, a transmission housing
portion coupled to the motor housing portion, and a handle portion
coupled to and extending transverse to a bottom surface of the
motor housing portion, the motor housing portion including a top
surface generally opposite the bottom surface; a motor at least
partially disposed in the motor housing portion; a motor controller
disposed in the housing and in electrical communication with the
motor; a transmission disposed at least partially in the
transmission housing portion; a tool accessory holder configured to
be rotatably driven by the motor via the transmission and
configured to receive a tool accessory; a power switch disposed on
the handle portion and in electrical communication with the motor
controller to control power delivery to the motor; an electronic
mode select switch disposed on a surface of the motor housing
portion, the electronic mode select switch in electrical
communication with the motor controller; a first gripping region on
a top portion of the motor housing portion; a second gripping
region on the handle portion; and a third gripping region on a
bottom portion of the motor housing portion, wherein the first
gripping region includes a first concave recess on a first side of
the motor housing portion and a second concave recess on a second
side of the motor housing portion, the second side of the motor
housing portion opposite the first side of the motor housing
portion.
8. The power tool of claim 7, wherein the third gripping region
includes a finger rest recess disposed axially forward of the power
switch on the bottom surface of the motor housing portion.
9. The power tool of claim 7, wherein the handle portion includes a
rear concave recess.
10. The power tool of claim 7, wherein the handle portion defines a
handle axis, the handle axis at an obtuse angle .alpha. to the tool
axis.
11. The power tool of claim 10, wherein the obtuse angle .alpha. is
approximately between 100 degrees and 115 degrees.
12. The power tool of claim 7, wherein the second gripping region
lies along a generally elliptical shape that is centered
approximately at the power switch, the elliptical shape having a
major axis generally perpendicular to the tool axis and extending
from a top surface of the motor housing portion to a distal end of
the handle portion, and a minor axis generally parallel to the tool
axis extending from a rear surface of the handle portion.
13. The power tool of claim 12, wherein the major axis has a length
of approximately 142 mm to approximately 147 mm and the minor axis
has a length of approximately 128 mm to approximately 132 mm.
14. The power tool of claim 7, wherein the power switch is disposed
along at least half of the handle portion.
15. The power tool of claim 7, wherein the power tool is configured
to be selectively grasped in a first grip position using the first
gripping region, the second gripping region, and the third gripping
region or a second grip position using only the second gripping
region and the third gripping region, the first grip position being
different than the second grip position; and wherein both the first
grip position and the second grip position enable simultaneous
actuation of the electronic mode select switch and the power
switch.
16. A power tool comprising: a housing defining a tool axis, the
housing including a motor housing portion, a transmission housing
portion coupled to the motor housing portion, and a handle portion
coupled to and extending transverse to a bottom surface of the
motor housing portion, the motor housing portion including a top
surface generally opposite the bottom surface; a motor at least
partially disposed in the motor housing portion; a motor controller
disposed in the housing and in electrical communication with the
motor; a transmission disposed at least partially in the
transmission housing portion; a tool accessory holder configured to
be rotatably driven by the motor via the transmission and
configured to receive a tool accessory; a battery receptacle
coupled to a distal portion of the handle portion; a power switch
disposed on the handle portion and in electrical communication with
the motor controller to control power delivery to the motor; and an
electronic mode select switch disposed on a surface of the motor
housing portion, the electronic mode select switch in electrical
communication with the motor controller, wherein the handle portion
includes a top portion adjacent the bottom surface of the motor
housing portion, a bottom portion adjacent the battery receptacle,
and an intermediate portion between the top portion and the bottom
portion, the top portion having a first depth and a first width,
the intermediate portion having a second depth and a second width,
and the bottom portion having a third depth and a third width, the
first depth greater than the second depth, the second depth greater
than the third depth, the first width greater than the second
width, and the second width greater than or equal to the third
width.
17. The power tool of claim 16, wherein the first width is
approximately 37 mm to 42 mm, the second width is approximately 31
mm to 36 mm, and the third width is approximately 28 mm to 35
mm.
18. The power tool of claim 17, wherein the first depth is
approximately 45 mm to 55 mm, the second depth is approximately 40
mm to 50 mm, and the third depth is approximately 38 mm to 48
mm.
19. The power tool of claim 16, wherein: the motor housing portion
includes a first concave recess on a first side surface of the
motor housing portion, a second concave recess on a second side
surface of the motor housing portion opposite the first side
surface of the motor housing portion, and a finger rest recess
axially forward of the power switch on the bottom surface of the
handle portion.
20. The power tool of claim 16, wherein: the power tool is
configured to be selectively grasped in a first grip position using
the top portion, the intermediate portion, and the bottom portion
of the handle portion or a second grip position using the motor
housing portion, the top portion of the handle portion, and the
intermediate portion of the handle portion, the first grip position
different than the second grip position; and wherein both the first
grip position and the second grip position enable simultaneous
actuation of the electronic mode select switch and the power
switch.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. Non-Provisional
application Ser. No. 17/456,420, filed on Nov. 24, 2021, and titled
"Power Tool With Multiple Modes Of Operation And Ergonomic
Handgrip," and claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application
No. 63/199,108, filed on Dec. 7, 2020, and titled "Power Tool With
Multiple Modes Of Operation And Ergonomic Handgrip," both of which
are incorporated by reference herein in their entireties.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] This description relates to a power tool with multiple modes
of operation and an ergonomic handgrip.
BACKGROUND
[0003] When performing fastening tasks such as fastening sheet
goods to interior or exterior walls, there are many variations in
the fastening tasks that present challenges to productivity. For
example, there are variations in material types and hardness,
variations in fastener quality and fastener type, variations in
wall type (e.g., wood vs. metal) and wall thickness, as well as
other variations. Many power tools for performing fastening tasks,
such as screwguns, have one speed and/or one mode for the varied
fastening tasks and situations. Having one speed and/or one mode to
cover all fastening variations can lead to damaged or broken
fasteners, which causes delays and lost productivity. Users may
also manually slow the screwgun down using partial trigger
actuation, which also reduces productivity and increases user
fatigue.
[0004] Additionally, power tools such as screwguns are a type of
"dead spindle" power tool where the motor and the output spindle
are separated from each other until the user applies pressure to
push the two component together. Once the corresponding clutches
engage, power is transmitted from the motor to the output spindle
and a fastener (e.g., screw) is driven into a work piece.
Generally, these power tools have an on/off trigger that a user
needs to pull to drive the fastener.
[0005] It is desirable to have a power tool for fastening and other
tasks, such as a screwgun, with technical improvements that address
these challenges.
SUMMARY
[0006] According to one general aspect, a power tool includes a
housing, a motor disposed in the housing, a motor controller
disposed in the housing and electrically coupled to the motor, a
transmission disposed in the housing and coupled to the motor, and
a tool bit holder configured to be rotatably driven by the motor
via the transmission and configured to receive a tool bit for
rotatably driving threaded fasteners. The power tool includes a
power switch actuatable from outside the housing and coupled to the
motor controller to control power delivery to the motor and an
electronic mode select switch actuatable from outside the housing
and electrically coupled to the motor controller. The electronic
mode select switch is configured to select between at least a first
mode of operation in which power delivery to the motor is
controlled by actuation of the power switch and an electronic lock
on mode in which continuous power is delivered to the motor upon a
single actuation and release of the power switch.
[0007] According to another general aspect, a power tool includes a
housing including a motor housing portion, a transmission housing
portion coupled to the motor housing portion, and a handle portion
coupled to and extending transverse to the motor housing portion, a
motor disposed at least partially in the motor housing portion, a
motor controller disposed in the housing and electrically coupled
to the motor to control power delivery to the motor, a transmission
disposed at least partially in the transmission housing portion,
and a tool bit holder configured to be rotatably driven by the
motor via the transmission and configured to receive a tool bit for
rotatably driving threaded fasteners. The power tool includes a
power switch actuatable from outside the housing and coupled to the
motor controller to control power delivery to the motor and an
electronic mode select switch coupled to and actuatable from
outside the motor housing. The electronic mode select switch is
electrically coupled to the motor controller and is configured to
select among a plurality of modes of operation of the motor, where
the electronic mode select switch is configured to be actuatable by
a user with one hand while gripping the housing with the one hand
in a position for actuating the power switch and driving a threaded
fastener into a workpiece.
[0008] According to another general aspect, a power tool includes a
housing including a motor housing portion, a transmission housing
portion coupled to the motor housing portion, and a handle portion
coupled to and extending transverse to a bottom surface of the
motor housing portion, where the motor housing portion includes a
top surface generally opposite the bottom surface. The power tool
includes a motor at least partially disposed in the motor housing
portion, a motor controller disposed in the housing and
electrically coupled to the motor, a transmission disposed at least
partially in the transmission housing portion, a tool bit holder
configured to be rotatably driven by the motor via the transmission
and configured to receive a tool bit for rotatably driving treaded
fasteners, a power switch actuatable from outside the housing and
coupled to the motor controller to control power delivery to the
motor, and an electronic mode select switch coupled to and
actuatable from outside the motor housing portion. The electronic
mode select switch is electrically coupled to the motor controller
and configured to select among a plurality of modes of operation of
the motor. The electronic mode select switch is disposed on the top
surface of the motor housing portion. The power tool includes a
belt clip disposed on the top surface of the motor housing
portion.
[0009] According to another general aspect, a power tool includes a
housing, a motor disposed in the housing, a motor controller
disposed in the housing and electrically coupled to the motor, a
transmission and clutch assembly disposed in the housing and
coupled to the motor, where the transmission and clutch assembly
includes at least an output clutch and an input clutch, a tool bit
holder configured to be rotatably driven by the motor via the
transmission and clutch assembly and configured to receive a tool
bit for rotatably driving threaded fasteners, a power switch
actuatable from outside the housing and coupled to the motor
controller to control power delivery to the motor, an electronic
mode select switch actuatable from outside the housing and
electrically coupled to the motor controller and having one or more
modes of operation for controlling power to the motor, and a mode
change sensor for sensing changes in position of the output clutch,
where the mode change sensor is located forward of the input clutch
and is configured to send signals to the electronic mode select
switch responsive to sensing changes in the position of the output
clutch.
[0010] According to another general aspect, a power tool includes a
housing, a motor disposed in the housing, a motor controller
disposed in the housing and electrically coupled to the motor, and
a transmission and clutch assembly disposed in the housing and
coupled to the motor. The transmission and clutch assembly includes
a planetary gear assembly having a planet carrier, an output
clutch, an intermediate clutch coupled to one face of the planet
carrier, and an input clutch integrated with an opposite face of
the planet carrier. The power tool includes an electronic mode
select switch coupled to and actuatable from outside the motor
housing, where the electronic mode select switch is electrically
coupled to the motor controller and is configured to select among a
plurality of modes of operation of the motor, and a tool bit holder
configured to be rotatably driven by the motor via the transmission
and clutch assembly and configured to receive a tool bit for
rotatably driving threaded fasteners.
[0011] According to another general aspect, a power tool includes a
housing, a motor disposed in the housing, a motor controller
disposed in the housing and electrically coupled to the motor, a
transmission disposed in the housing and configured to be driven by
the motor, an output spindle extending from the housing and
configured to be moved axially relative to the housing when
depressed against a workpiece, a clutch disposed between the
transmission and the tool bit holder, the clutch having an input
clutch member coupled to the transmission and an output clutch
member coupled to the output spindle, the output clutch moveable
between a rearward position in which torque is transmitted from the
transmission to the output spindle via the clutch when the output
spindle is depressed against a workpiece, and a forward position in
which torque transmission from the transmission to the output shaft
is interrupted, a sensor assembly including a sensed member coupled
to the output spindle axially forward of the output clutch member
and configured to move axially with the output spindle and a
sensing member axially fixed relative to the housing to sense a
position of the sensed member, and a brake mechanism configured to
engage the output member the clutch when in the forward position to
inhibit rotation of the output member, the brake mechanism
including at least one leg extending from a point axially forward
of the sensed member and extending past at least a portion of the
sensed member to engage the output clutch member when in the
forward position.
[0012] The details of one or more implementations are set forth in
the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features
will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the
claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0013] FIG. 1A is a front perspective view of an example
screwgun.
[0014] FIG. 1B is a rear perspective view of the screwgun of FIG.
1A.
[0015] FIG. 1C is a right side view of the screwgun of FIG. 1A.
[0016] FIG. 1D is a front view of the screwgun of FIG. 1A.
[0017] FIG. 1E is a left side view of the screwgun of FIG. 1A.
[0018] FIG. 1F is a rear view of the screwgun of FIG. 1A.
[0019] FIG. 1G is a top view of the screwgun of FIG. 1A.
[0020] FIG. 1H is a bottom view of the screwgun of FIG. 1A.
[0021] FIG. 2 is left side cutaway view of an example screwgun.
[0022] FIG. 3A is a top rear perspective view of an example
screwgun with a removable clip.
[0023] FIG. 3B is a top rear perspective view of the screwgun of
FIG. 3A with an exploded view of the removable clip.
[0024] FIG. 4 is a partial rear perspective cutaway view of the
screwgun of FIG. 3A.
[0025] FIG. 5 is a partial top rear perspective view of the
screwgun of FIG. 3A with the removable clip removed.
[0026] FIG. 6 is a partial right side cutaway view of the screwgun
of FIG. 3A with the removable clip removed.
[0027] FIG. 7 is a side view of a mode change switch from the
screwgun of FIG. 3A.
[0028] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the mode change switch of
FIG. 7.
[0029] FIG. 9 is an example schematic of an example indicator for a
mode change switch.
[0030] FIG. 10A is a right side view of a screwgun being gripped in
a first position.
[0031] FIG. 10B is a left side view of the screwgun of FIG. 10A
being gripped in the first position.
[0032] FIG. 10C is a top view of the screwgun of FIG. 10A being
gripped in the first position.
[0033] FIG. 10D is a top view of the screwgun of FIG. 10A being
gripped in the first position with the thumb near the mode select
switch.
[0034] FIG. 11A is a right side view of the screwgun of FIG. 10A
being gripped in a second position.
[0035] FIG. 11B is a left side view of the screwgun of FIG. 10A
being gripped in the second position.
[0036] FIG. 12A is a left side view of the screwgun of FIG. 1A.
[0037] FIG. 12B is a rear view of the screwgun of FIG. 1A.
[0038] FIG. 13A is a rear portion perspective exploded view of an
example transmission and clutch assembly for a screwgun.
[0039] FIG. 13B is a front portion perspective exploded view of the
transmission and clutch assembly of FIG. 13A.
[0040] FIG. 13C is a rear portion perspective exploded view of an
example transmission and clutch assembly with a braking
mechanism.
[0041] FIG. 13D is a perspective view of the braking mechanism of
FIG. 13C.
[0042] FIG. 13E is a side view of the assembled transmission and
clutch assembly of FIG. 13C with the braking mechanism engaged.
[0043] FIG. 13F is a side view of the assembled transmission and
clutch assembly of FIG. 13C with the braking mechanism
disengaged.
[0044] FIG. 13G is a side view of the assembled transmission and
clutch assembly of FIG. 13C with the braking mechanism engaged.
[0045] FIG. 13H is a side view of the assembled transmission and
clutch assembly of FIG. 13G in a partial cutaway of the gear and
clutch case.
[0046] FIG. 13I is a side view of the assembled transmission and
clutch assembly of FIG. 13G in a partial cutaway of the gear and
clutch case.
[0047] FIG. 13J is a top view of the gear and clutch case of FIG.
13I.
[0048] FIG. 14 is a side view of an assembled transmission and
clutch assembly for a screwgun.
[0049] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of an example integrated
clutch input face.
[0050] FIG. 16A is a rear perspective exploded view of another
example input clutch.
[0051] FIG. 16B is a front perspective exploded view of the input
clutch of FIG. 16A.
[0052] FIG. 17A is a side assembled view of an example mode change
sensor.
[0053] FIG. 17B is a partial side assembled view of the mode change
sensor of FIG. 17A rotated 90 degrees.
[0054] FIG. 18 is a side view of the output shaft with magnet arm
assembly of FIG. 17A.
[0055] FIG. 19A is a partial side assembled view of the mode change
sensor of FIG. 17A in a first position.
[0056] FIG. 19B is a partial side assembled view of the mode change
sensor of FIG. 17A in a second position.
[0057] FIG. 19C is a partial side assembled view of the mode change
sensor of FIG. 17A in a third position.
[0058] FIG. 19D is a partial side assembled view of the mode change
sensor of FIG. 17A in a fourth position.
[0059] FIG. 20 is a partial side assembled view of another mode
change sensor using a Hall sensor with a concentrator.
[0060] FIG. 21A is a side assembled view of another mode change
sensor using an inductive sensor in a first position.
[0061] FIG. 21B is a side assembled view of the mode change sensor
of FIG. 21A in a second position.
[0062] FIG. 22A is a partial side assembled view of the mode change
sensor of FIG. 21A illustrating an inset view of inductive sensing
coils.
[0063] FIG. 22B a partial cutaway side assembled view of the mode
change sensor of FIG. 21A except the sensor is moved to the front
of the clutch face.
[0064] FIG. 23A is a top view of inductive sensor coils.
[0065] FIG. 23B is a side view of the inductive sensor coils of
FIG. 23A.
[0066] FIG. 24 is a top view of inductive sensor coils.
[0067] FIG. 25A is a partial cutaway side assembled view of an
inductive sensor in a first position.
[0068] FIG. 25B is a partial cutaway side assembled view of the
inductive sensor of FIG. 25A in a second position.
[0069] FIG. 26A is a partial side assembled view of a two coil
radial inductive sensor in a first position.
[0070] FIG. 26B is a partial side assembled view of the two coil
radial inductive sensor of FIG. 26A in a second position.
[0071] FIG. 27A is a partial side assembled view of a two coil
axial inductive sensor in a first position.
[0072] FIG. 27B is a partial side assembled view of the two coil
axial inductive sensor of FIG. 27A in a second position.
[0073] FIG. 27C is a front view of the two coil axial inductive
sensor of FIG. 27A.
[0074] FIG. 28A is a rear perspective exploded view of a depth
adjustment nosecone with a depth collar adjustment.
[0075] FIG. 28B is a front perspective exploded view of the depth
adjustment nosecone of FIG. 28A.
[0076] FIG. 29A is an example flowchart of the operations of the
screwgun of FIGS. 1A-1H.
[0077] FIG. 29B is an example flowchart of the trigger operated
modes of operation of the screwgun of FIGS. 1A-1H.
[0078] FIG. 29C is an example flowchart of the lock on mode of
operation of the screwgun of FIGS. 1A-1H.
[0079] FIG. 29D is an example flowchart of the auto start mode of
operation of the screwgun of FIGS. 1A-1H.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0080] This document describes and illustrates a power tool, such
as a screwgun (also referred to interchangeably as a screwdriver),
that is a battery powered, cordless power tool. The power tool is
generally configured to rotatably drive threaded fasteners into a
workpiece. More specifically, in some implementations, the power
tool may be used to drive drywall screws for affixing drywall to
studs. To assist with driving threaded fasteners into a workpiece,
the power tool includes an electronic mode select switch (also
referred to as a digital mode select switch), which enables the
power tool to be operated in one of multiple modes of operation.
The modes of operation enable a motor in the power tool to be
operated in various different drive modes. For example, the modes
of operation include one or more of manual high speed, manual low
speed, push start mode, lock on mode, and one or more rapid
sequential modes. More specifically, the manual high speed mode and
the manual low speed mode control the motor mode of operation and
power delivery to the motor in cooperation with the actuation of a
power switch (also referred to as a trigger) on the power tool. The
other modes of operation control the motor mode of operation
regardless of the actuation of the power switch.
[0081] In this manner, the electronic mode select switch provides
different modes of operation for the power tool, including modes at
different speeds, to address the technical needs and varied
situations for driving fasteners into workpieces. This provides the
user more options for operating the power tool in different
fastening situations compared to a power tool with fewer speeds and
fewer modes of operation. The user may select an appropriate mode
of operation for a given fastening situation. By using an
appropriate mode of operation for the given fastening situation,
fastening efficiency may be improved and re-work of fastening jobs
may be avoided because damage to fasteners and/or the workpiece can
be minimized because the mode of operation may be better matched to
the fastening situation. Furthermore, user fatigue caused by trying
to control the motor speed using the power switch may be reduced by
providing modes of operation that operate the power tool at
different speeds using the power switch and in different modes
without having to actuate the power switch. Also, the electronic
mode select switch enables more modes of operation and a smoother
transition between modes of operation when compared to a mechanical
mode select switch. A visual indicator on the electronic mode
select switch may be used to indicate the selected mode of
operation. Each of the modes of operation is described in more
detail below.
[0082] The power tool is ergonomically configured to enable
simultaneous one-handed operation of the power tool and one-handed
operation of both the power switch and the electronic mode select
switch using the same hand. The electronic mode select switch and
the power switch are both actuatable from outside the housing of
the power tool. For example, the power switch may be located on a
handle portion of the housing and the electronic mode select switch
may be located on a motor housing portion of the housing. More
specifically, for instance, the electronic mode select switch may
be located on a top surface of the motor housing portion. The
housing is ergonomically configured with multiple gripping regions
to enable multiple, different one-handed grip positions by the
user, while simultaneously providing access to the electronic mode
select switch on the motor housing portion and the power switch on
the handle portion. The ergonomic configuration of the power tool
provides comfort during operation of the power tool for extended
periods of time, which may reduce user fatigue during the extended
use periods. The ergonomic configuration also provides for
one-handed ease of operation using the various different modes of
operation. Additionally, a belt clip (also referred to as a clip or
tool clip) may be located in a same area on the motor housing
portion as the electronic mode select switch. The belt clip may
protect the electronic mode select switch from physical damage due
to unintended drops of the power tool and/or unintended banging of
the power tool against a foreign object and may provide a
convenient place to retain the power tool on a user's belt or other
stationary object when not in use.
[0083] As mentioned above, the power tool includes multiple
different modes of operation. For some of the modes of operation,
the power tool includes a sensing mechanism (also referred to as a
sensor or a mode change sensor) that is used to detect and trigger
one or more of the modes of operation. The sensor, which may be a
Hall sensor, an inductive sensor, or other type of sensor, senses a
position of the output clutch when the input clutch is engaged and
the sensor sends a signal that causes the motor to start. The
sensor may be located on or in front of the output clutch, as
illustrated and described below in more detail, which increases the
accuracy of sensing the position of the output clutch and reduces
the complexity of prior sensing linkages, which were at least
partially located behind the output clutch.
[0084] Furthermore, the power tool includes a multiple part clutch
arrangement in combination with a planetary gear transmission. In
one example arrangement, an input clutch face and corresponding
clutch surfaces are integrated as part of the output planet gear
carrier of the transmission. The integrated clutch and transmission
components provides for a more compact clutch and transmission
assembly and for an overall more compact and ergonomically
configured, quieter operating power tool. These features and other
features are described in more detail below with respect to the
figures.
[0085] Referring to FIGS. 1A-1H and 2, in one example
implementation, a power tool 10 is illustrated. In the illustrated
examples, the power tool 10 is a screwgun, which also may be
referred to as a screwdriver, that is configured to rotatably drive
threaded fasteners into a workpiece. FIG. 1A is a front perspective
view of the example screwgun. FIG. 1B is a rear perspective view of
the screwgun of FIG. 1A. FIG. 1C is a right side view of the
screwgun of FIG. 1A. FIG. 1D is a front view of the screwgun of
FIG. 1A. FIG. 1E is a left side view of the screwgun of FIG. 1A.
FIG. 1F is a rear view of the screwgun of FIG. 1A. FIG. 1G is a top
view of the screwgun of FIG. 1A. FIG. 1H is a bottom view of the
screwgun of FIG. 1A. FIG. 2 is left side cutaway view of an example
screwgun.
[0086] The power tool 10 has a housing 12 having a front end
portion 18, a rear end portion 22, and sidewalls defining a tool
axis X-X. The housing includes a motor housing portion 13 that
contains a motor 14 (e.g., a rotary motor) and a transmission
housing portion 15 that contains a planetary gear transmission that
transmits rotary motion from the motor 14 to an output spindle 26.
The motor housing portion 13 includes a bottom surface 17 and a top
surface 19, which is generally opposite the bottom surface 17. The
transmission housing portion 15 is coupled to the motor housing
portion 13. Coupled to the front end portion 18 of the transmission
housing portion 15 and mechanically connected to the output spindle
26 is a working end or tool bit holder 16 for retaining a tool bit
31 (e.g., a drill bit or screw driving bit), as shown in FIG. 2,
and defining a tool holder axis X-X. As shown, the tool bit holder
16 includes a hex bit retention mechanism. Further details
regarding example tool holders are set forth in commonly-owned U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 12/394,426 (now U.S. Pat. No.
8,622,401) and Ser. No. 14/186,088 (now U.S. Pat. No. 9,616,557),
which are incorporated herein by reference. The working end of the
tool bit holder 16 could encompass other elements, such as a
different hex bit holder, a chuck, a nosepiece of a nailer or
stapler, or a saw blade holder. As illustrated in FIG. 2, a
removable depth adjust nosecone assembly 32 is coupled to the front
end portion 18 of the housing 12. The motor 14 drives the working
end or tool bit holder 16 via the motor output shaft 51, the
transmission, and the output spindle 26. A nosepiece 33 or magazine
may optionally be coupled to the front end portion 18 of the
housing 12, as described and shown in the aforementioned U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 14/186,088 (now U.S. Pat. No.
9,616,557), which is incorporated by reference.
[0087] Extending downward and slightly rearward of the housing 12
is a handle portion 40 in a pistol grip formation. The handle
portion 40 has a proximal portion 42 coupled to the housing 12 and
a distal portion 44 coupled to a battery receptacle 28. The handle
portion 40 also has a first front wall portion 43 and a second
front wall portion 59 facing the tool bit holder 16 side of the
tool, a rear wall portion 41 facing away from the tool bit holder
16 side of the tool, and sidewalls 49. The handle portion 40
extends generally along a handle axis Y-Y that is at an obtuse
angle .alpha. to the tool bit holder axis X-X and that lies along a
midline of the handle portion 40. For example, the angle .alpha.
may be approximately 100-115 degrees, e.g., approximately 106
degrees, such that the distal portion 44 is located generally
rearward and downward of the rear end portion 22 of the housing 12.
It should be understood that this angle can be varied among a wide
range of angles. The handle portion 40 also includes a finger rest
recess 47 and a rear concave recess 48 for use when gripping the
power tool 10 in one-handed operation.
[0088] The motor 14 may be powered by an electrical power source,
e.g., a battery (not shown), which is coupled to the battery
receptacle 28. In some implementations, the motor 14 may be a
brushless motor. It is understood that the motor 14 may be
implemented as other types of motors. A trigger 30, also referred
to as a power switch, is coupled to the handle portion 40 adjacent
the motor housing portion 13 of the housing 12. The trigger 30
electrically connects the battery (or other source of power) to the
motor 14 via a motor controller 29 for controlling power delivery
to the motor 14. The motor controller 29 is in electrical
communication with the motor 14. The motor controller 29 may
include a memory module and a microcontroller. The trigger 30
defines a trigger axis Z-Z extending along the direction of trigger
travel, which is generally perpendicular to the handle axis Y-Y. A
light unit (e.g., an LED) 27 may be disposed on the battery
receptacle 28 and may be angled to illuminate an area in front of
the tool bit holder 16. Power delivery to the light unit 27 may be
controlled by the trigger 30 and the motor controller 29, or by a
separate switch on the tool. As shown in the drawings, the power
tool is a battery powered cordless screwgun, also referred to as a
screwdriver. However, it should be understood that the tool may be
any type of corded, cordless, pneumatic, or combustion powered
tool, such as a drill, an impact driver, a wrench, a hammer, a
hammer drill, a nailer, a stapler, a saw, a grinder, a sander, or a
router.
[0089] As mentioned above, the motor 14 drives the working end or
tool bit holder 16 via the motor output shaft 51, the transmission,
and the output spindle 26. The transmission may be a planetary gear
transmission that includes a sun gear 52 (also referred to as a
pinion), a planet carrier 53 for holding one or more (e.g., three)
planet gears 20, and a ring gear 54 that is fixed around the planet
gears. The sun gear 52 is operably coupled to the motor output
shaft 51, which rotatably drives the sun gear 52. The sun gear 52
is operably coupled to the planet gears 20 where the teeth of the
sun gear 52 rotatably drive the planet gears 20. The planet gears
20 rotate around axes that revolve around the sun gear 52. The ring
gear 54 binds and encases the planet gears 20 with the planet gears
20 rotating within the fixed ring gear 54.
[0090] The transmission is operably coupled to a clutch system that
includes an input clutch 55 integrated with the planet carrier 53,
an intermediate clutch 56, a clutch spring 57, and an output clutch
58. The output clutch 58 is operably coupled to the output spindle
26 and the tool bit holder 16. The output clutch 58 moves axially
with the with the output spindle 26 and the tool bit holder 16. In
general operation, the rotation of the motor output shaft 51
rotatably drives the sun gear 52 and the planet carrier 53 with the
integrated input clutch 55 and the intermediate clutch 56. An axial
gap between the intermediate clutch 56 and the output clutch 58
keeps the output clutch disengaged from the intermediate clutch 56
until an axial force is exerted on the tool bit holder 16, such as
by a user pressing the tool bit holder 16 into a workpiece. The
axial force exerted on the tool bit holder axially moves the tool
bit holder 16 and the output spindle 26, which is coupled to the
tool bit holder 16, and the output clutch 58, which is coupled to
the output spindle 26, and compresses the clutch spring 57 until
the output clutch 58 engages the rotating intermediate clutch 56.
The rotating intermediate clutch 56 imparts rotation to and
rotatably drives the output clutch 58, the output spindle 26, and
the tool bit holder 16. Additional details and description of the
transmission and clutch assemblies are provided below in more
detail with respect to FIGS. 13A-16B, including different
implementations.
[0091] The power tool 10 includes an electronic mode select switch
60. The electronic mode select switch 60 provides an interface for
a user to change the power tool modes of operation using an
electronic switch instead of a mechanical switch. The electronic
mode select switch 60 is actuatable from outside the housing 12.
The electronic mode select switch 60 is disposed on the motor
housing portion 13. While the electronic mode select switch 60 is
illustrated as being disposed on a top surface 19 of the motor
housing portion 13, it is understood that the electronic mode
select switch 60 may be disposed in other locations on the motor
housing portion 13 such as, for example, on either side of the
motor housing portion 13 or on a back of the motor housing portion
13 above the proximal portion 42 of the handle portion 40. As
illustrated in FIG. 2, the electronic mode select switch 60
includes a printed circuit board (PCB) 61 that has a
microcontroller and a memory module. Additional details, including
the details of the various modes of operation, are provided below
with respect to FIGS. 3A-9.
[0092] Furthermore, a sensor (also referred to interchangeably as a
mode change sensor) may be used to detect movement of the output
spindle 26 for use in one or more of the modes of operation. When
the sensor detects axial movement of the output spindle 26, such as
when the tool bit 31 engages a workpiece, the sensor sends a signal
that causes the power tool 10 to operate and drive the fastener
into the workpiece. When the sensor detects the axial movement of
the output spindle 26 returning to its original position, then the
sensor sends a signal that causes the power tool to stop driving
the fastener into the workpiece. The sensor assembly includes a
sensed member that moves together with the output spindle 26 and a
sensing member that remains stationary relative to the sensed
member and that senses movement of the sensed member relative to
the sensing member. Alternatively, the sensing member could move
together with the output spindle 26, while the sensed member
remains stationary relative to the sensing member. For example, in
the implementation of FIG. 2, a sensor assembly 78 is illustrated
as including a sensing member 79 with a Hall sensor 92 and a sensed
member 89 including a magnet arm assembly 80. Additional details,
including details of various other sensor implementations, are
provided below with respect to FIGS. 17A-27C.
[0093] The power tool 10 includes a clip 70, which also may be
referred to interchangeably as a tool belt clip, a belt clip, a
tool clip, a removable clip, and a hook. The clip 70 is disposed on
the top surface 19 of the motor housing portion 13 and is secured
to the motor housing portion 13 using removable fasteners. In this
manner, the clip 70 is removable from the power tool 10. In some
implementations, the clip 70 may be integral with the power tool.
The clip 70 enables the power tool 10 to hang from various
surfaces, hooks, hangars, tool belt, and other objects. In some
implementations, a portion of the clip 70 at least partially
surrounds the electronic mode select switch 60 and, since the clip
70 is raised above top surface 19 of the motor housing portion 13,
provides physical protection for the electronic mode select switch
60, which is recessed in the top surface 19. The clip 70 is
illustrated and described in more detail below with respect to
FIGS. 3A-4.
[0094] Referring to FIGS. 3A-9, the electronic mode select switch
60 and the clip 70 are illustrated in more detail. The power tool
10 illustrated in FIGS. 3A-9 may be the same power tool 10 and
include the same features and functions as power tool 10 of FIGS.
1A-2, where the example implementation illustrated is a screwgun.
FIG. 3A is a top rear perspective view of an example screwgun
(i.e., power tool 10) with a removable clip 70. FIG. 3B is a top
rear perspective view of the screwgun (i.e., power tool 10) of FIG.
3A with an exploded view of the removable clip 70. FIG. 4 is a
partial rear perspective cutaway view of the screwgun (i.e., power
tool 10) of FIG. 3A. FIG. 5 is a partial top rear perspective view
of the screwgun (i.e., power tool 10) of FIG. 3A with the removable
clip 70 removed. FIG. 6 is a partial right side cutaway view of the
screwgun (i.e., power tool 10) of FIG. 3A with the removable clip
70 removed. FIG. 7 is a side view of the electronic mode select
switch 60 from the screwgun (i.e., power tool 10) of FIG. 3A. FIG.
8 is a perspective view of the electronic mode select switch 60 of
FIG. 7. FIG. 9 is an example schematic of an example indicator for
the electronic mode select switch 60.
[0095] As mentioned above, in some implementations, the electronic
mode select switch 60 and the clip 70 are disposed on the top
surface 19 of the motor housing portion 13 of the power tool 10. In
this manner, the electronic mode select switch 60 and the clip 70
are located in a same area on the motor housing portion 13. The
clip 70 is a removable clip that is secured to the top surface 19
using fasteners 71 that are received through slots 72 of the clip
70 and received into a fastener receiver 73 on the top surface 19
of the power tool 10. The fasteners 71 are removable to enable the
clip 70 to be removed and re-assembled as desired. The clip 70 also
includes two feet 75 that hook into the motor housing portion 13
for additional support.
[0096] The clip 70 is raised above the top surface 19, while the
electronic mode select switch 60 is recessed into the top surface
19. In this manner, the clip 70 provides physical protection to the
electronic mode select switch 60 and may prevent unintended
selection of the electronic mode select switch 60 and may prevent
damage to the electronic mode select switch 60 due to a drop of the
power tool 10 or knocking the power tool 10 into another object.
The top surface 19 also includes a rib 76 that is disposed around
and encircles or at least partially surrounds the electronic mode
select switch 60. The rib 76 is raised above the top surface 19 and
may provide protection to the electronic mode select switch 60
against drops or other accidents when the clip 70 is removed.
[0097] The top surface 19 also may include multiple air vents 77
that aid in cooling the power tool 10 and, specifically, the motor
and electrical and electronic components. The air vents 77 are air
intake vents that receive air external to the power tool 10 and use
the air for cooling. In some implementations, the air vents 77 are
disposed on the top surface 19 on either side of the electronic
mode select switch 60 adjacent to the fastener receiver 73. It is
understood that the air vents 77 may be located at other points on
the top surface 19 and/or at other points on the motor housing
portion 13.
[0098] The electronic mode select switch 60 provides an interface
for user selection of multiple different modes of operation of the
power tool 10. The electronic mode select switch 60 is electrically
coupled to (i.e., in electrical communication with) the motor
controller 29 and may be used to electronically control the mode of
operation of the power tool 10 and the motor. The modes of
operation may include manual high speed, manual low speed, push
start mode, lock on mode, and multiple, different rapid sequential
modes. The modes of operation are selected by the user depressing
the electronic mode select switch 60. The modes of operation may be
programmed in a particular order and the user may cycle through the
modes of operation by depressing the electronic mode select switch
60. The electronic mode select switch 60 may include the PCB 61,
which includes a microcontroller 62, a memory module 63, and an
indicator 64. The memory module 63 may store the instructions for
the different modes of operation, including the sequential order
for activating the modes. The microcontroller 62 may perform the
instructions stored in the memory module 63 and communicates the
instructions to the motor controller 29. The indicator 64 is
configured to provide a visual indication to the user of the
selected mode of operation.
[0099] For the manual high speed mode and the manual low speed
mode, the electronic mode select switch 60 is used in conjunction
with the trigger (trigger 30 of FIG. 2). First the electronic mode
select switch is selected to place the mode of operation in the
manual high speed mode or the manual low speed mode and then the
trigger 30 is used to turn the motor and the power tool on and off.
In some implementations, the trigger 30 is a variable speed trigger
that is used to control the amount of power delivered to the motor
(and thus its operating speed) to be variable based on the travel
distance of the trigger 30 or the amount of user pull of the
trigger 30. In some implementations, the trigger 30 functions as an
on-off switch so that the amount of the power delivered to the
motor (and thus the operating speed of the motor) remains
substantially constant regardless of the travel distance of the
trigger so long as it has been actuated.
[0100] In manual high speed mode, the trigger 30 is used to actuate
the motor by the user pulling the trigger 30. When the trigger 30
is pulled by the user, the motor turns ON at the highest or maximum
power and/or operating speed of the power tool 10 or has a variable
speed up to the highest or maximum power and/or operating speed
based on the amount of pull on the variable speed trigger. When the
trigger 30 is released, the motor turns OFF and the power tool 10
turns OFF.
[0101] In the manual low speed mode, the trigger 30 is used to
actuate the motor by the user pulling on the trigger 30. When the
trigger 30 is pulled by the user, the motor turns ON at a reduced
percentage of the highest or maximum operating speed of the power
tool or has a variable power or speed up to a reduced percentage of
the full operating speed of the power tool 10 based on the amount
of pull on the variable speed trigger. In either case, the
percentage of the full operating speed may be configurable by a
user. In some implementations, the percentage of the full operating
speed may be preset. For example, the percentage of the full
operating speed may be set to 75% of the full operating speed. In
operation, when the mode is set to the manual low speed and the
trigger is fully pulled all the way, the motor turns ON and
operates at 75% of the full power and/or operating speed. In this
manner, a full trigger pull operates at this set lower speed. In
some implementations, the variable trigger may be pulled less and
the motor and power tool operate at an even lower percentage of the
full power and/or operating speed depending on how far the trigger
is pulled. In some implementations, the motor remains at a
substantially constant reduced percentage of power and/or motor
speed regardless of the amount of trigger travel, so long as the
trigger has been actuated. When the trigger is released, the motor
and the power tool turn OFF.
[0102] The use of the manual low speed mode may assist in
maximizing user productivity and reducing user fatigue. The manual
low speed mode also may reduce and/or eliminate fasteners that
break and/or burn up from too high of an operating speed. The
manual low speed mode also may reduce and/or eliminate broken
fastener threads from thin wall sheet metal applications.
[0103] The push start mode is another mode of operation that is
actuated by using the electronic mode select switch 60 to select
the push start mode. The push start mode also may be referred to as
auto start mode. In the push start mode, the trigger 30 is not used
to actuate the motor and the power tool 10. In the push start mode,
the initial motor state is that the motor is not running. The
sensor assembly 78, which may include a nosepiece switch, detects
movement of the output spindle towards the clutch, for example,
when the user pushes the power tool 10 against a workpiece to drive
a fastener into the workpiece. When the sensor assembly 78 detects
the movement, the sensor assembly sends a signal to the motor
controller to turn the motor ON. The motor turns ON, the clutch is
engaged by the pushing movement of the power tool 10 against the
workpiece, and the fastener is driven into the workpiece. After the
fastener is driven into the workpiece, the output spindle 26
returns to its initial position. The sensor assembly 78 detects the
movement of the output spindle 26 to its original position and the
sensor assembly sends a signal to the motor controller to turn the
motor OFF.
[0104] In some implementations, the push start mode may include
only one speed option. For example, the motor may only operate at
full operating speed in push start mode that has only one speed
option. In some implementations, the push start mode may include a
high speed option and a low speed option. In a push start high
speed mode, the engagement of the workpiece by pushing the power
tool 10 against the workpiece, automatically turns the motor on at
full operating speed based on the sensor assembly detecting the
movement of the output spindle 26. In a push start low speed mode,
when the sensor assembly detects the movement of the output spindle
26, the motor is turned ON to a percentage of the full operating
speed, which may be a configurable percentage of the full operating
speed or a preset percentage of the full operating speed, similar
to the manual low speed mode.
[0105] Another mode of operation is the lock on mode of operation.
The lock on mode is actuated by using the electronic mode select
switch to select the lock on mode. When the user fully pulls and
releases the trigger 30, the motor turns on full operating speed
and the motor remains ON until the user fully pulls and releases
the trigger 30 again. For instance, a partial trigger pull will not
turn ON the motor in this mode and a partial trigger pull will not
turn OFF the motor in this mode. In lock on mode, continuous power
is delivered to the motor upon a single actuation and release of
the power switch. With the lock on mode of operation, the motor
remains turned ON as the user engages and disengages from a
workpiece to drive fasteners. The clutch engages and disengages
with the depressing and release of the power tool 10 against the
workpiece. This mode of operation enables a faster pace of driving
fasteners because the motor remains fully ON resulting in no lag
time between driving fasteners.
[0106] In some implementations, the modes of operation include one
or more rapid sequential modes. The rapid sequential modes are
similar to the push start mode except that the motor remains
running for a period of time after the sensor assembly detects the
output spindle has returned to its initial position instead of the
motor turning OFF. In a rapid sequential mode, the electronic mode
select switch 60 is used to select the mode. When the user pushes
the power tool 10 against the workpiece, the sensor assembly
detects the movement of the output spindle 26 and sends a signal to
start the motor. The user then drives a fastener into the
workpiece. When the sensor assembly detects the output spindle 26
has returned to its initial position, the sensor assembly sends a
signal to turn OFF the motor. The motor remains on for a period of
time, which may be a preset time or may be a time adjustable by a
user. For example, the motor may remain on for 3 seconds. The motor
may be set to remain on for other periods of time. This enables
another fastener to be driven within the period of time that the
motor is still at full operating speed. If another fastener is
driven, the period of time resets when the output spindle 26
returns to its initial position and the sensor assembly sends a
signal to turn off the motor. If no drive event occurs during the
period of time, the motor turns off and waits for the next sensed
movement of the output spindle 26 to turn on again.
[0107] In some implementations of the rapid sequential mode, the
motor speed may drop to a percentage of the full operating speed
(e.g., 75% of the full operating speed) during the period of time
instead of staying on at full operating speed. If the sensor
assembly detects movement of the output spindle 26 to drive another
fastener, the motor increases to full operating speed and then
returns to the percentage of the full operating speed after the
fastener is driven for the period of time. If no drive event occurs
during the period of time, the motor turns off and waits for the
next sensed movement of the output spindle 26 to turn on again.
[0108] Referring to FIG. 9, the indicator 64 provides a visual
indication to the user of the current mode of operation. In this
example, three lights 65-67 (e.g., light emitting diodes (LEDs))
may be used to indicate the current mode of operation. The lights
65-67 may be used alone and in combination to indicate a particular
mode. The user may cycle through the modes of operation by
depressing the electronic mode select switch, which causes the
indicator 64 and the lights 65-67 to change with each selection of
the electronic mode select switch. For example, when only light 65
is illuminated, the mode of operation may be manual low speed. When
only light 66 is illuminated, the mode of operation may be manual
high speed. When lights 66 and 67 are illuminated together, the
mode of operation may be push start mode. When lights 65, 66, and
67 are illuminated, the mode of operation may be lock on mode. The
fixed symbol 68 also provides an indication to the user that the
lock on mode is functional when all three lights 65-67 are
illuminated. It is understood that this is merely one example of
how the indicator 64 may be used to indicate the particular modes
of operation to the user and that the lights 65-67 may be assigned
to indicate other modes.
[0109] Referring to FIGS. 10A-12B, various different user hand
positions for gripping the power tool 10 are illustrated. The power
tool 10 may be the same power tool 10 as illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1H
and include the same reference numbers to refer to the same
components. For example, FIGS. 10A-10D illustrate different views
of a power tool 10 being gripped in a first position. FIG. 10A is a
right side view of a screwgun being gripped in a first position.
FIG. 10B is a left side view of the screwgun of FIG. 10A being
gripped in the first position. FIG. 10C is a top view of the
screwgun of FIG. 10A being gripped in the first position. FIG. 10D
is a top view of the screwgun of FIG. 10A being gripped in the
first position with the thumb near the electronic mode select
switch.
[0110] FIGS. 11A-11B illustrate different views of the power tool
10 being gripped in a second position. FIG. 11A is a right side
view of the screwgun of FIG. 10A being gripped in a second
position. FIG. 11B is a left side view of the screwgun of FIG. 10A
being gripped in the second position.
[0111] As shown in FIGS. 10A-11B, the power tool 10 is
ergonomically configured to enable simultaneous one-handed
operation of the power tool and one-handed operation of both the
trigger 30 (also referred to as a power switch) and the electronic
mode select switch 60 using the same hand. The electronic mode
select switch 60 and the trigger 30 are both actuatable from
outside the housing of the power tool. For example, the trigger 30
may be located on a handle portion 40 of the housing 12 and the
electronic mode select switch 60 may be located on a motor housing
portion 13 of the housing 12. More specifically, for instance, the
electronic mode select switch 60 may be located on a top surface 19
of the motor housing portion 13. The housing 12 is ergonomically
configured with multiple gripping regions to enable multiple,
different one-handed grip positions by the user, while
simultaneously providing access to the electronic mode select
switch 60 on the motor housing portion 13 and the trigger 30 on the
handle portion 40. The ergonomic configuration of the power tool 10
provides comfort during operation of the power tool for extended
periods of time, which may reduce user fatigue during the extended
use periods. The ergonomic configuration also provides for
one-handed ease of operation using the various different modes of
operation.
[0112] Referring also back to FIG. 1E, the power tool 10 includes a
housing 12, also referred to as an ergonomic housing, designed to
be contoured to a user's hand. The housing 12 includes a first
gripping region 34 on a top portion of the motor housing portion
13, a second gripping region 36 on the rear wall portion 41 of the
proximal portion 42 of the handle portion 40, a third gripping
region 35 on a bottom portion of the motor housing portion 13 below
the first gripping region 34, a fourth gripping region 38 on the
rear wall portion 41 of the distal portion 44 of the handle portion
40, a fifth gripping region 45 on a front wall portion 43 of the
proximal portion 46 of the handle portion 40 adjacent to the
trigger 30, and a sixth gripping region 37 on the front wall
portion 43 of the proximal portion 46 of the handle portion 40
distal of the fifth gripping region 45 and adjacent the battery
receptacle 28. One or more of the gripping regions 34, 35, 36, 38,
45, 37 may be formed or covered with an elastomeric material, such
as rubber or a resilient plastic material, and may include one or
more ridges or recesses to facilitate gripping of these regions.
For ease of illustration the gripping regions 34, 35, 36, 38, 45,
37 are not illustrated in the other FIGS. 10A-11B.
[0113] The ergonomic grip facilitates ergonomic gripping of the
tool by a user's hand in two different grip positions during
operation of the tool. FIGS. 10A-11B illustrate the anatomical
parts of a user's hand. Generally, a user's hand includes a palm
101 to which is connected a thumb 102, a forefinger 104, a middle
finger 106, a ring finger 108, and a pinky finger 110. A web 112 of
muscles connects the base of the thumb 102 and forefinger 104. In
addition, the palm 101 includes a center region flanked by two
fleshy pads in the form of a thenar eminence on the thumb side of
the palm and the hypothenar eminence on the pinky side of the palm.
Further, there are fleshy pads on the palm 101 at the base of the
thumb 102 and each finger 104, 106, 108, and 110.
[0114] In the first gripping position illustrated in FIGS. 10A-10D,
the thumb 102 grips the power tool 10 on the concave recess on one
side of the motor housing portion 13 and the forefinger 104 grips
the power tool 10 on the concave recess on the opposite side of the
motor housing portion 13. The middle finger 106 grips the power
tool 10 on the finger rest recess 47, which is located on the
handle portion 40 near the bottom surface of the motor housing
portion 13. The ring finger 108 and the pinky finger 110 grip the
trigger 30 on the handle portion 40. In this manner, the finger
rest recess 47 provides a gripping location for the middle finger
106 to provide leverage to enable the thumb 102 to move easily from
the concave recess on the motor housing portion (FIG. 10C) to the
electronic mode select switch on the top surface of the motor
housing portion (FIG. 10D). Of course, the user may just as easily
move the thumb 102 back from the electronic mode select switch to
the concave recess, all while maintaining a steady, reliable, and
comfortable grip on the power tool 10. In this manner, the user may
operate the power tool with one hand and simultaneously change
modes of operation with the same hand by moving the thumb 102 from
the side of the power tool to the top of the power tool 10.
[0115] In the second gripping position illustrated in FIGS.
11A-11B, the thumb 102 is wrapped around the handle portion 40. The
forefinger 104 grips the power tool 10 on the concave recess on the
motor housing portion 13. The middle finger 106 grips the trigger
30 on the handle portion 40 and the ring finger 108 and the pinky
finger 110 grip the handle portion 40 below the trigger 30. In this
manner, FIGS. 11A-11B illustrate a second gripping position that is
different than the first gripping position illustrated in FIGS.
10A-10D. Both gripping positions enable one-handed operation of the
power tool 10 that enables the user to maintain a comfortable and
steady grip for periods of time while using the power tool 10 on a
workpiece(s).
[0116] Referring to FIGS. 12A and 12B, features are illustrated,
including example dimensions, that provide for a housing 12 with
superior ergonomics. FIG. 12A is a left side view of the screwgun
of FIG. 1A. FIG. 12B is a rear view of the screwgun of FIG. 1A. The
handle portion 40 has a first depth D1 and a first width W1 at the
trigger 30, a second depth D2 and a second width W2, and a third
depth D3 and a third width W3 at the base of the handle portion 40.
The first depth D1 is slightly greater than the second depth D2,
which is greater than the third depth D3. For example, the first
depth D1 is approximately 45 mm to 55 mm (e.g., approximately 50
mm), the second depth D2 is approximately 40 mm to 50 mm (e.g.,
approximately 48 mm), and the third depth D3 is approximately 38 mm
to 48 mm (e.g., approximately 45 mm). The first width W1 is greater
than the second width W2, which is approximately equal to the third
width W3. For example, the first width W1 is approximately 37 mm to
42 mm (e.g., approximately 39 mm), the second width W2 is
approximately 31 mm to 36 mm (e.g., approximately 34 mm), and the
third width W3 is approximately 28 mm to 35 mm (e.g., approximately
33 mm). The concave recesses on either side of the motor housing
portion 13 have a height H1, which is approximately 14 mm to 20 mm
(e.g., approximately 16 mm).
[0117] The housing 12 further includes a fourth depth D4 measured
from the trigger 30 to the rear concave recess 48 of approximately
80 mm to 85 mm (e.g., approximately 82 mm). The ergonomics of the
housing 12 also form an ellipse-shape centered on the trigger 30
with a major axis MA1 extending from the top surface of the motor
housing to the battery receptacle and having dimensions of
approximately of 142 mm to 147 mm (e.g., approximately 145 mm) and
a minor axis MI1 extending from the rear of the handle to the front
of the motor housing and having dimensions of approximately of 128
mm to 132 mm (e.g., approximately 130 mm).
[0118] Referring to FIGS. 13A-15, an example transmission and
clutch assembly for the power tool 10 is illustrated. FIG. 13A is a
rear portion perspective exploded view of an example transmission
and clutch assembly for a screwgun. FIG. 13B is a front portion
perspective exploded view of the transmission and clutch assembly
of FIG. 13A. FIG. 14 is a side view of an assembled transmission
and clutch assembly for a screwgun. FIG. 15 is a perspective view
of an example planet carrier 53 with an integrated input clutch
55.
[0119] As mentioned above, the motor (not shown) drives the working
end or tool bit holder 16 via the motor output shaft (not shown),
the output spindle 26, and the transmission and clutch assembly.
The transmission and clutch assembly includes a gear and clutch
case front portion 83 and a gear and clutch case rear portion 84,
in which the transmission and clutch components are at least
partially disposed. A bearing 81 is disposed in the gear and clutch
case front portion 83. In some implementations, and as illustrated,
the transmission may be a planetary gear transmission that includes
a sun gear 52 (also referred to as a pinion), a planet carrier 53
for holding three planet gears 20, and a ring gear 54 that is fixed
around the planet gears. Pins 82 (also referred to as carrier pins)
are configured to secure and hold the planet gears 20 in the planet
carrier 53. The sun gear 52 is operably coupled to the motor output
shaft 51, which rotatably drives the sun gear 52. The sun gear 52
is operably coupled to the planet gears 20 where the teeth of the
sun gear 52 rotatably drive the planet gears 20. The planet gears
20 rotate around axes that revolve around the sun gear 52. The ring
gear 54 binds and encases the planet gears 20. A bearing 39 (also
referred to as an output spindle bearing) supports the output
spindle 26. As shown in FIG. 14, a planet carrier bearing 85
support the planet carrier 53.
[0120] The transmission is operably coupled to a clutch system that
includes an input clutch 55 integrated with the planet carrier 53,
an intermediate clutch 56, a clutch spring 57, and an output clutch
58. The output clutch 58 is operably coupled to the output spindle
26 and the tool bit holder 16. The output clutch 58 moves axially
with the with the output spindle 26 and the tool bit holder 16. In
general operation, the rotation of the motor output shaft rotatably
drives the sun gear 52 and the planet carrier 53 with the
integrated input clutch 55 and the intermediate clutch 56. An axial
gap between the intermediate clutch 56 and the output clutch 58
keeps the output clutch disengaged from the intermediate clutch 56
until an axial force is exerted on the tool bit holder 16, such as
by a user pressing the tool bit holder 16 into a workpiece. The
axial force exerted on the tool bit holder axially moves the tool
bit holder 16 and the output spindle 26, which is coupled to the
tool bit holder 16, and the output clutch 58, which is coupled to
the output spindle 26, and compresses the clutch spring 57 until
the output clutch 58 engages the rotating intermediate clutch 56.
The rotating intermediate clutch 56 imparts rotation to and
rotatably drives the output clutch 58, the output spindle 26, and
the tool bit holder 16.
[0121] Referring more specifically to FIG. 15, the input clutch 55
is integrated with the planet carrier 53. With the input clutch 55
integrated with the planet carrier 53, the overall transmission and
clutch assembly is more compact and enables users to use the power
tool in tighter and more confined spaces, where manoeuvrability may
be challenging. The input clutch 55 includes multiple clutch faces
551, 552, and 553. The clutch faces 551, 552, and 553 mesh and
interact with corresponding clutch faces on the intermediate clutch
56. In general, the input clutch 55 and the intermediate clutch 56
remain axially stationary, while the output clutch 58 is a movable
clutch that moves in an axial direction to engage the intermediate
clutch 56 when the spring force of the clutch spring 57 is overcome
and to disengage the intermediate clutch 56 when the spring force
of the clutch spring 57 is released.
[0122] Referring also to FIG. 17A, the sensor assembly 78 comprises
a sensed member 89 including a magnet arm assembly 80 and a sensing
member 79 including a Hall sensor 92. The magnet arm assembly 89
includes a radial arm portion 89a that extends radially outward
from the output spindle to a radius that is greater than a radius
of the output clutch 58, an axial arm portion 89b that extends
axially rearward across at least a portion of the output clutch 58,
and, a magnet 86 that is coupled to the axial arm portion 89b
approximately even with the output clutch 58. The magnet arm 80 is
coupled to the output clutch 58. The magnet arm assembly 80 and
magnet 86 move axially when the output clutch 58 moves axially. In
this manner, the axial position of the magnet arm assembly 80 and
magnet 86 may be sensed by the Hall sensor 92 to detect the
movement of the tool bit holder 16, the output spindle 26, and the
output clutch 58 when the tool bit holder 16 is pressed against a
workpiece. The detection of the movement of these components may be
used to one or more of the modes of operation discussed above such
as, for example, the push start mode(s) and the rapid sequential
mode(s). At least a portion of the magnet arm assembly 80 is
located forward of the output clutch 58 on the side closer to the
gear and clutch case front portion 83. The magnet arm assembly 80
and the Hall sensor 92 are discussed in more detail below with
respect to FIGS. 17A-19D.
[0123] Referring to FIGS. 13C-13J, the transmission and clutch
assembly also may include a braking mechanism 88, also referred to
as a clutch stop. FIG. 13C illustrates an exploded view of the
clutch and transmission assembly with the braking mechanism 88 and
FIG. 13D illustrates the braking mechanism component by itself. The
braking mechanism may include a ring 90 and multiple legs 91. As
illustrated in FIGS. 13E, 13G, 13H, and 13I the legs 91 of the
braking mechanism 88 extend from a point axially forward of the
sensed member 89 of the sensor assembly 78 to a point axially
rearward of the radial arm portion 89a of the sensor assembly 78 to
engage stops 93 on the output clutch 58 when the output clutch 58
is in its forward position to prevent rotation of the output clutch
58 and the tool bit holder 16 when the output clutch 58 is
disengaged from the intermediate clutch 56 and the input clutch 55.
This is also referred to as a "dead spindle" position. In this
example, the braking mechanism 88 includes multiple legs 91 that
engage stops 93 on the output clutch 58 when the output clutch 58
is in its forward position to prevent rotation of the output clutch
58 and the tool bit holder 16 when the output clutch 58 is
disengaged from the intermediate clutch 56 and the input clutch
55.
[0124] In FIG. 13F, the stops 93 on the output clutch 58 are
disengaged from the legs 91 on the braking mechanism 88. For
instance, as the output clutch 58 re-engages the intermediate
clutch 56, the stops 93 on the output clutch 58 disengage from the
legs 91 on the braking mechanism 88 so that the output clutch 58
and the output spindle 26 may rotate. In FIGS. 13H-13J, the braking
mechanism 88 is illustrated as being integrated as part of the gear
and clutch case 83. For example, the braking mechanism 88 may be
insert molded into the gear and clutch case 83.
[0125] Referring to FIGS. 16A and 16B, another example
implementation of a transmission and clutch assembly is
illustrated. FIG. 16A is a front perspective exploded view of
another example input clutch. FIG. 16B is a rear perspective
exploded view of the input clutch of FIG. 16A. In this example, the
input clutch 155 is not integrated with the planet carrier 153 and
instead is a separate component. The pins 182 function as a
securing mechanism to secure and hold the planets 120 in the planet
carrier 153 and to hold the input clutch 155 to the planet carrier
153.
[0126] In some implementations, the transmission may include a
parallel axis transmission, similar to the one described in U.S.
Pat. No. 7,469,753, which is incorporated herein by reference.
[0127] Referring to FIGS. 17A-19D, an example sensor assembly 78 is
illustrated. The sensor assembly 78 includes the magnet arm
assembly 80 coupled to the output spindle 26, the magnet 86, and
the Hall sensor 92 electrically connected to the electronic mode
select switch 60. FIG. 17A is a side assembled view of an example
mode change sensor. FIG. 17B is a partial side assembled view of
the mode change sensor of FIG. 17A rotated 90 degrees. FIG. 18 is a
side view of the mode change sensor of FIG. 17A.
[0128] The magnet arm assembly 80 is coupled to the tool bit holder
16 side of the output clutch 58, which is forward of the clutch
spring 57 and the intermediate clutch 56. In operation, the Hall
sensor 92 senses the movement of the magnet 86 by detecting a
change in polarity as the magnet moves axially. The Hall sensor 92
may be a bi-latching Hall sensor that uses the detected change in
polarity of the magnet, due to the axial movement of the magnet 86,
to send signals to the electronic mode select switch 60, which may
be relayed to the motor controller. In some implementations, the
Hall sensor may be an ordinary Hall sensor that detects the
proximity of the magnet.
[0129] When the user applies pressure to the tool bit holder 16
against a workpiece, the tool bit holder 16, the output spindle 26,
and the output clutch 58 with the attached magnet arm assembly 80
move axially to compress the clutch spring 57 towards the
intermediate clutch 56. The magnet 86 is fixed to the magnet arm
assembly 80 and moves axially with the magnet arm assembly 80 and
the output clutch 58. As the magnet 86 moves across the Hall sensor
92 and the change of polarity is sensed, the Hall sensor 92 sends a
signal to the electronic mode select switch 60. If the current mode
of operation is the push start mode or rapid sequential mode, the
motor will turn ON responsive to the detected axial movement and
the signal initiated by the Hall sensor 92.
[0130] When the user releases the pressure of the tool bit holder
16 from the workpiece, the tool bit holder 16, the output spindle
26, and the output clutch 58 with the attached magnet arm assembly
80 move axially away from the intermediate clutch 56. The magnet 86
is fixed to the magnet arm assembly 80 and moves axially with the
magnet arm assembly 80 and the output clutch 58. As the magnet 86
moves back across the Hall sensor 92 and the change of polarity is
sensed, the Hall sensor 92 sends a signal to the electronic mode
select switch 60. If the electronic mode select switch 60 is in the
push mode, the motor will turn OFF responsive to the detected axial
movement and the signal initiated by the Hall sensor 92. If the
electronic mode select switch 60 is in the rapid sequential mode,
the motor remains ON for the period of time responsive to the
detected axial movement and the signal initiated by the Hall sensor
92.
[0131] FIGS. 19A-19D illustrate the operation of the magnet arm
assembly 80 and the Hall sensor 92. FIG. 19A is a partial side
assembled view of the mode change sensor of FIG. 17A in a first
position. In FIG. 19A, the tool state is the motor is OFF and the
push start mode is selected on the electronic mode select switch
and in a standby state. The output clutch 58 is disengaged from the
intermediate clutch 56. The Hall sensor is looking for a magnetic
pole change, where the "S" magnetic pole of the magnet 86 is
positioned below the Hall sensor 92.
[0132] FIG. 19B is a partial side assembled view of the mode change
sensor of FIG. 17A in a second position. In FIG. 19B, output
spindle 26, the magnet arm assembly 80, and the magnet 86 move
axially from a home position and travel the distance marked by
"distance traveled." The axial movement moves the magnet 86 past
the Hall sensor 92 such that the "N" pole of the magnet is
positioned below the Hall sensor 92 and the Hall sensor 92 senses
the magnetic pole change from "S" to "N". The Hall sensor 92 sends
a signal to turn the Motor ON. The Motor turns ON even though the
output clutch 58 has not yet engaged the intermediate clutch
56.
[0133] FIG. 19C is a partial side assembled view of the mode change
sensor of FIG. 17A in a third position. In FIG. 19C, the axial
movement of the output spindle 26, the magnet arm assembly 80, the
magnet 86, and the output clutch 58 continues to engage the
rotating intermediate clutch 56. The output clutch 58 engages the
intermediate clutch 56 causing the output spindle 26 and the tool
bit holder to rotate and drive a fastener into the workpiece. The
tool state is the Motor is ON, the clutches are engaged and driving
a fastener. The Hall sensor 92 is waiting for another change in
polarity of the magnet.
[0134] FIG. 19D is a partial side assembled view of the mode change
sensor of FIG. 17A in a fourth position. In FIG. 19D, the output
clutch 58 disengages from the intermediate clutch 56 and the output
clutch 58, along with the magnet arm assembly 80 and the magnet 86,
move axially back to the home position. The output clutch 58 and
the output spindle 26 stop rotating when the clutches disengage. As
the magnet 86 moves axially, the Hall sensor 92 senses the change
in polarity from "N" back to "S". The Hall sensor 92 sends a signal
to turn the Motor Off. If the electronic mode select switch 60 is
in the push mode, the motor will turn OFF responsive to the
detected axial movement and the signal initiated by the Hall sensor
92. If the electronic mode select switch 60 is in the rapid
sequential mode, the motor remains ON for the period of time
responsive to the detected axial movement and the signal initiated
by the Hall sensor 92.
[0135] Referring to FIG. 20, another example implementation of a
mode change sensor is illustrated. FIG. 20 is a partial side
assembled view of another mode change sensor using a Hall sensor
2092 with a concentrator 2094. In some implementations, a Hall
sensor 2092 may be used with a concentrator 2094 and a fixed
permanent magnet 2096. The concentrator 2094 directs or focuses a
magnetic field on the output clutch. When the output clutch moves
axially, the magnetic field passing through the Hall sensor 2092
changes and the Hall sensor 2092 sends a signal to turn the motor
ON. When the output clutch moves axially again, the magnetic field
passing through the Hall sensor 2092 reverses and the Hall sensor
2092 sends a signal to turn the motor OFF.
[0136] Referring to FIGS. 21A-23B, other example implementations
illustrate mode change sensor using an inductive sensor. FIG. 21A
is a side assembled view of another mode change sensor using an
inductive sensor in a first position. FIG. 21B is a side assembled
view of the mode change sensor of FIG. 21A in a second position.
FIG. 22A is a partial side assembled view of the mode change sensor
of FIG. 21A illustrating an inset view of inductive sensing coils.
FIG. 22B a partial cutaway side assembled view of the mode change
sensor of FIG. 21A. FIG. 23A is a top view of inductive sensor
coils. FIG. 23B is a side view of the inductive sensor coils of
FIG. 23A.
[0137] In FIGS. 21A and 21B, an inductive sensor board 2102 is used
to detect a change in position/axial movement of the output clutch
2104. The inductive sensor board 2102 is positioned above the
output clutch 2104. FIG. 21A shows the output clutch 2104 is a
first disengaged position, where the output clutch 2104 is
disengaged from the intermediate clutch 2106. In FIG. 21B, the
inductive sensor board 2102 no longer senses the ferrous metal of
the output clutch 2104 as the output clutch 2104 moves axially
towards the intermediate clutch 2106. Responsive to sensing this
change, the inductive sensor board 2102 sends a signal to turn the
motor ON. When the output clutch 2104 disengages from the
intermediate clutch 2106, the inductive sensor board 2102 senses
the ferrous metal of the output clutch 2104 and sends a signal to
turn the motor OFF.
[0138] In some implementations, the scheme can also be reversed and
the inductive sensor board 2102 can look at the gap between the
output clutch 2104 and the intermediate clutch 2106. Then, when the
output clutch 2104 moves into view, the inductive sensor board 2102
would detect the movement and turn the motor ON and OFF, as
appropriate.
[0139] FIG. 22A illustrates the details of the inductive sensor
2202 with a receiving coil 2220 on the top side of the printed
circuit board and the sensing coil 2224 on the bottom (clutch) side
of the printed circuit board, where the output clutch is in a
forward position.
[0140] FIGS. 22B, 23A, and 23B illustrate a two coil inductive
sensor implementation. The printed circuit board 2302, also
referred to as an Auto Start Module, includes an inductive sensor
using a side by side coil design to achieve the furthest sensing
range with a first coil 2330 and a second coil 2340. The switching
distance S.sub.D is a fixed distance from the sensor's surface
where a conductive target will switch the sensor output signal from
Low to High. The switching distance S.sub.D is approximately 40% of
the coil diameter with an approximate coil diameter of between 5 mm
and 9 mm (e.g., approximately 7 mm) and an approximate switching
distance S.sub.D of between 2 mm and 3.6 mm (e.g., approximately
2.8 mm). The target for the inductive sensor is the output clutch
2304 and the distance from the inductive sensor to the target is
the Target Distance or T.sub.D.
[0141] Referring to FIG. 24, the location of the inductive sensor
coils is illustrated. The auto start module 2402 is housed inside
the gear case behind the output clutch 2404. The sense coil 2430 is
positioned so the output clutch 2404 covers 100% of the coil
diameter.
[0142] Referring to FIGS. 25A and 25B, the output clutch 2504 is
shown in a position at rest (or home position) (FIG. 25A) and
during actuation (FIG. 25B). When the output clutch 2504
displacement is greater than the switching distance
(T.sub.D>S.sub.D), the auto start module 2502 will send a HIGH
signal to the motor. As the output clutch 2504 disengages from the
motor, the T.sub.D<S.sub.D and the auto start module 2502 will
send a LOW signal to stop the motor.
[0143] Referring to FIGS. 26A and 26B, another example
implementation of a mode change sensor that uses a two coil radial
inductive sensor 2602 (also referred to as inductive sensor or
inductive sensor board) is illustrated. FIG. 26A illustrates a
partial side assembled view of a two coil radial inductive sensor
2602 in a first position with the output clutch 2604 disengaged
from the intermediate clutch 2606 (i.e., the output clutch 2604 in
rest position meaning no pressure is being applied by the user to a
workpiece). The inductive sensor board 2602 is fixed in position in
the gearcase disposed below the output clutch 2604. The inductive
sensor 2602 is positioned to detect movement of the output clutch
2604 towards the intermediate clutch 2606 by watching for a gap
between the gear case 2608 and the output clutch 2604 when pressure
is applied by the user against a workpiece.
[0144] FIG. 26B illustrates a partial side assembled view of the
two coil radial inductive sensor 2602 of FIG. 26A in a second
position when the output clutch 2604 has moved towards to the
intermediate clutch 2606 (i.e., the output clutch 2604 has moved
into driving position to drive a fastener). The inductive sensor
2602 senses the gap 2610 between the gear case 2608 and the output
clutch 2604 as the output clutch 2604 moves axially toward the
intermediate clutch 2606. Responsive to sensing the gap 2610, the
inductive sensor 2602 sends a signal to turn the motor ON and the
output clutch 2604, output spindle, and tool bit holder rotate to
drive a fastener. When the output clutch 2604 disengages from the
intermediate clutch 2606, the output clutch 2604 returns to the
rest position and the gap 2610 is closed. The inductive sensor 2602
senses the gap 2610 is closed and sends a signal to turn the motor
OFF.
[0145] Referring to FIGS. 27A-27C, another example implementation
of a mode change sensor using an axial inductive sensor is
illustrated. A donut-shaped induction sensor 2702 is used that is
concentric with the output shaft axis of rotation. This allows the
induction sensor 2702 to nest in the assembly and use less space.
The induction sensor 2702 works by looking at the outside face of
the output clutch 2704 and senses a change in the distance of the
output clutch 2704 when the power tool is in use. FIG. 27A
illustrates a partial side assembled view of a two coil axial
inductive sensor 2702 in a first position with the output clutch
2704 engaged with the intermediate clutch 2706 is a drive mode. A
gap 2710 is created when the output clutch 2704 is in the drive
mode and the donut-shaped inductive sensor 2702 senses the gap 2710
and sends a signal via the wire to turn the motor ON. FIG. 27B
illustrates a partial side assembled view of the two coil axial
inductive sensor 2702 of FIG. 27A in a second position when the
output clutch 2704 is disengaged from the intermediate clutch 2706
in the rest position. The gap 2710 is closed in this position and
the inductive sensor 2702 senses the closed gap 2710 and sends a
signal to turn the motor OFF. FIG. 27C illustrates a front view of
the two coil axial inductive sensor 2702 of FIG. 27A showing its
donut shape and location concentric with the output shaft.
[0146] In one or more of the mode change sensor implementations
described above, a duty cycle method to "pulse" the sensor at a %
duty cycle may be used to reduce electromagnetic interference
(EMI). For example, at a 20% duty cycle, the sensor is on for 2 ms
and off for 8 ms. This duty cycle is fast enough to detect the
output clutch movement faster than a user can perceive the
movement. Operating the inductive sensor on a duty cycle provides
the advantage of much lower EMI emissions than if no duty cycle is
used and the sensor is on for 100% of the time.
[0147] Referring to FIGS. 28A and 28B, a depth adjustment nosecone
2800 with a depth adjustment collar 2802 is illustrated. FIG. 28A
is a rear perspective exploded view of a depth adjustment nosecone
2800 with a depth adjustment collar 2802. FIG. 28B is a front
perspective exploded view of the depth adjustment nosecone 2800 of
FIG. 28A. The depth adjustment nosecone 2800 is removeable and is
used to adjust the depth to which a screw can be driven. An example
depth adjustment nosecone is described in commonly assigned U.S.
Pat. No. 10,406,661 at col. 6, line 12 to col. 7, line 14, which is
herein incorporated by reference.
[0148] In FIGS. 28A and 28B, the depth adjust nosecone 2800
includes differences from the incorporated patent such as the depth
adjustment collar 2802 has concave indexing recesses 2803 that are
used to hold the depth adjustment collar 2802 in a fixed position.
The spring holder assembly 2804 includes leaf springs 2806 that
engage the concave indexing recesses 2803 as the depth adjustment
collar 2802 rotates.
[0149] FIG. 29A is an example flowchart of a process 2900 for
controlling the operation of a power tool such as, for example, the
power tool 10 of FIGS. 1A-1H. FIG. 29B is an example flowchart of
the trigger operated modes of operation of the screwgun of FIGS.
1A-1H. FIG. 29C is an example flowchart of the lock on mode of
operation of the screwgun of FIGS. 1A-1H. FIG. 29D is an example
flowchart of the auto start mode of operation of the screwgun of
FIGS. 1A-1H. Process 2900 is performed by the power tool 10. More
specifically, process 2900 may be performed using the components of
the motor controller, which may include a memory module and a
microcontroller, and/or the electronic mode select switch 60, which
includes a memory module 63 and a microcontroller 62, as
illustrated in FIG. 7. In some implementations, the motor
controller may be a component separate from the power switch 30 and
the electronic mode select switch 60 or the motor controller may be
incorporated as a component of the power switch 30 or the
electronic mode select switch 60.
[0150] Referring to FIG. 29A, process 2900 includes receiving a
default operation mode (2902). In some implementations, the default
operation mode includes the last operation mode of the power tool
as stored in the memory module 63 of the electronic mode select
switch 60, as illustrated in FIG. 7. The last operation mode may be
stored as an operation mode state in the memory module 63. The
memory module 63 may retain the operation mode state for a period
of time. In some implementations, the operation mode state is
retained for the period of time, but may be erased upon certain
events such as, for example, the removal of the battery pack from
the power tool. If there is no operation mode state stored in the
memory module 63, then a default operation mode is entered, where
the default operation mode may be a triggered operated mode such
as, for example, the manual high speed operation mode.
[0151] In some implementations, the memory module 63 retains state
information for the operation mode. In some implementations, the
memory module in the motor controller may maintain state
information for the operation mode.
[0152] In some implementations, process 2900 may not default to the
last operation mode as stored in the memory module 63 and instead
may use a default operation mode, where the default operation mode
may be one of the trigger operated modes such as, for example, the
manual high speed mode or the manual low speed mode.
[0153] Process 2900 determines whether an input was received from
the electronic mode select switch (2904). For example, the power
tool 10 determines if the user has selected the electronic mode
select switch 60. If an input from the electronic mode select
switch 60 is received, then the operation mode of the power tool 10
is changed (2906). The selected mode may be stored in the memory
module 63 and/or in a memory module in the motor controller. Then,
process 2900 loops back and determines again if an input from the
electronic mode select switch has been received (2904). In this
manner, a user may cycle through and select a desired operation
mode for the power tool 10, as described above in more detail.
[0154] If an input from the electronic mode select switch 60 is not
received or is not received again, then the power tool 10
determines if an input is received from the nosepiece switch
(2908). As discussed above, the nosepiece switch may be a part of
the sensor assembly 78, which is activated when the user presses
the power tool 10 against a workpiece. If there is an input from
the nosepiece switch and the auto start mode is selected (2910),
then the auto start mode operation is performed (2912).
[0155] If there is no input received from the nosepiece switch
(2908) or the auto start mode is not detected (2910), then process
2900 determines whether an input has been received from the power
switch 30 (2914). If no input is received from the power switch 30,
then process 2900 goes back to determine whether an input is
received from the electronic mode select switch 60 (2904). If an
input is received from the power switch 30, then the power tool 10
determines which operation mode is selected (2916). The
microcontroller 62 in the electronic mode select switch 60 may be
programmed to determine the operation mode (2916) and retrieve the
selected mode from storage in the memory module 63 and/or the motor
controller.
[0156] Depending on the selected operation mode 2916, power is
delivered to the motor in one of the trigger operated mode (2918),
the lock on mode (2020), or the auto start mode (2012).
[0157] Referring to FIG. 29B, the trigger operated mode routine
2918 is illustrated. When the power switch 30 is activated and the
power tool 10 is in the trigger operated mode, then power is
delivered to the motor (2930). As long as the power switch 30 is
activated (2932), power is delivered to the motor (2930). When the
power switch 30 is released or deactivated, then power is
discontinued to the motor (2934) and the process returns (2936) to
FIG. 29A at step 2904 to determine whether an input is received
from the electronic mode select switch 60.
[0158] The tiggered operated mode may include a manual high speed
mode, a manual low speed mode, or a variable speed mode. In the
manual high speed mode, the motor is controlled to rotate at a
substantially constant high speed (or substantially constant high
target speed) regardless of the travel distance of the power
switch. In the manual low speed mode, the motor is controlled to
rotate at a substantially constant low speed (or substantially
constant low target speed) regardless of the travel distance of the
power switch. In the variable speed mode, the speed of the motor
depends on the travel distance of the power switch. Additional
details for these modes of operation are described above.
[0159] Referring to FIG. 29C, the lock on mode routine 2920 is
illustrated. When the lock on mode has been selected, continuous
power is delivered to the motor (2940) starting when the power
switch is activated. At the same time a timer is started if a timer
is not currently running. Continuous power continues to be
delivered to the motor without interruption, even if the power
switch is subsequently released. Power continues to be delivered to
the motor (2940) until the power switch is subsequently actuated
and released a second time (step 2942) or until a timer expires
(step 2943), whichever comes first. Once the power switch is
activated and released a second time (2942) or the timer expires
(2943), then power to the motor is discontinued (2944) and the
process returns (2946) to FIG. 29A at step 2904 to determine
whether an input is received from the electronic mode select
switch.
[0160] Referring to FIG. 29D, the auto start mode routine 2912 is
illustrated. When the auto start mode has been selected, power is
delivered to the motor (2950). As long as the motor start switch is
activated (2952), power is delivered to the motor (2950). The motor
start switch may be one or both of the power switch 30 and the
nosepiece switch, which is part of the sensor assembly 78. That is,
power may be delivered to the motor in the auto start mode using
one or both of the power switch 30 and the nosepiece switch. Once
the motor start switch is released or no longer activated (2953),
then power to the motor is discontinued (2954) and the process
returns (2956) to FIG. 29A at step 2904 to determine whether an
input is received from the electronic mode select switch.
[0161] It is understood that the elements of process 2900 may be
performed in a different order than the order illustrated in FIG.
29A.
[0162] In the following some examples are described.
[0163] Example 1: A power tool comprising:
[0164] a housing;
[0165] a motor disposed in the housing;
[0166] a motor controller disposed in the housing and electrically
coupled to the motor;
[0167] a transmission disposed in the housing and coupled to the
motor;
[0168] a tool bit holder configured to be rotatably driven by the
motor via the transmission and configured to receive a tool bit for
rotatably driving threaded fasteners;
[0169] a power switch actuatable from outside the housing and
coupled to the motor controller to control power delivery to the
motor; and
[0170] an electronic mode select switch actuatable from outside the
housing and electrically coupled to the motor controller, the
electronic mode select switch configured to select between at least
a first mode of operation in which power delivery to the motor is
controlled by actuation of the power switch and an electronic lock
on mode in which continuous power is delivered to the motor upon a
single actuation and release of the power switch.
[0171] Example 2: A power tool comprising:
[0172] a housing including a motor housing portion, a transmission
housing portion coupled to the motor housing portion, and a handle
portion coupled to and extending transverse to the motor housing
portion;
[0173] a motor disposed at least partially in the motor housing
portion;
[0174] a motor controller disposed in the housing and electrically
coupled to the motor to control power delivery to the motor;
[0175] a transmission disposed at least partially in the
transmission housing portion;
[0176] a tool bit holder configured to be rotatably driven by the
motor via the transmission and configured to receive a tool bit for
rotatably driving threaded fasteners;
[0177] a power switch actuatable from outside the housing and
coupled to the motor controller to control power delivery to the
motor; and
[0178] an electronic mode select switch coupled to and actuatable
from outside the motor housing, the electronic mode select switch
electrically coupled to the motor controller and configured to
select among a plurality of modes of operation of the motor,
[0179] wherein the electronic mode select switch is configured to
be actuatable by a user with one hand while gripping the housing
with the one hand in a position for actuating the power switch and
driving a threaded fastener into a workpiece.
[0180] Example 3: A power tool comprising:
[0181] a housing including a motor housing portion, a transmission
housing portion coupled to the motor housing portion, and a handle
portion coupled to and extending transverse to a bottom surface of
the motor housing portion, the motor housing portion including a
top surface generally opposite the bottom surface;
[0182] a motor at least partially disposed in the motor housing
portion;
[0183] a motor controller disposed in the housing and electrically
coupled to the motor;
[0184] a transmission disposed at least partially in the
transmission housing portion;
[0185] a tool bit holder configured to be rotatably driven by the
motor via the transmission and configured to receive a tool bit for
rotatably driving treaded fasteners;
[0186] a power switch actuatable from outside the housing and
coupled to the motor controller to control power delivery to the
motor;
[0187] an electronic mode select switch coupled to and actuatable
from outside the motor housing portion, the electronic mode select
switch electrically coupled to the motor controller and configured
to select among a plurality of modes of operation of the motor, the
electronic mode select switch disposed on the top surface of the
motor housing portion; and
[0188] a belt clip disposed on the top surface of the motor housing
portion.
[0189] Example 4: A power tool comprising:
[0190] a housing;
[0191] a motor disposed in the housing;
[0192] a motor controller disposed in the housing and electrically
coupled to the motor;
[0193] a transmission and clutch assembly disposed in the housing
and coupled to the motor, the transmission and clutch assembly
including at least an output clutch and an input clutch;
[0194] a tool bit holder configured to be rotatably driven by the
motor via the transmission and clutch assembly and configured to
receive a tool bit for rotatably driving threaded fasteners;
[0195] a power switch actuatable from outside the housing and
coupled to the motor controller to control power delivery to the
motor;
[0196] an electronic mode select switch actuatable from outside the
housing and electrically coupled to the motor controller and having
one or more modes of operation for controlling power to the motor;
and
[0197] a mode change sensor for sensing changes in position of the
output clutch, the mode change sensor located forward of the input
clutch and configured to send signals to the electronic mode select
switch responsive to sensing changes in the position of the output
clutch.
[0198] Example 5: A power tool comprising:
[0199] a housing;
[0200] a motor disposed in the housing;
[0201] a motor controller disposed in the housing and electrically
coupled to the motor;
[0202] a transmission and clutch assembly disposed in the housing
and coupled to the motor, the transmission and clutch assembly
including a planetary gear assembly having a planet carrier, an
output clutch, an intermediate clutch coupled to one face of the
planet carrier, and an input clutch integrated with an opposite
face of the planet carrier;
[0203] an electronic mode select switch coupled to and actuatable
from outside the motor housing, the electronic mode select switch
electrically coupled to the motor controller and configured to
select among a plurality of modes of operation of the motor;
and
[0204] a tool bit holder configured to be rotatably driven by the
motor via the transmission and clutch assembly and configured to
receive a tool bit for rotatably driving threaded fasteners.
[0205] Example 6: A power tool comprising:
[0206] a housing;
[0207] a motor disposed in the housing;
[0208] a motor controller disposed in the housing and electrically
coupled to the motor;
[0209] a transmission disposed in the housing and configured to be
driven by the motor;
[0210] an output spindle extending from the housing and configured
to be moved axially relative to the housing when depressed against
a workpiece;
[0211] a clutch disposed between the transmission and the tool bit
holder, the clutch having an input clutch member coupled to the
transmission and an output clutch member coupled to the output
spindle, the output clutch moveable between a rearward position in
which torque is transmitted from the transmission to the output
spindle via the clutch when the output spindle is depressed against
a workpiece, and a forward position in which torque transmission
from the transmission to the output shaft is interrupted;
[0212] a sensor assembly including a sensed member coupled to the
output spindle axially forward of the output clutch member and
configured to move axially with the output spindle and a sensing
member axially fixed relative to the housing to sense a position of
the sensed member; and
[0213] a brake mechanism configured to engage the output member the
clutch when in the forward position to inhibit rotation of the
output member, the brake mechanism including at least one leg
extending from a point axially forward of the sensed member and
extending past at least a portion of the sensed member to engage
the output clutch member when in the forward position.
[0214] Example 7: The power tool as in any of the preceding
examples, wherein the power tool is a screwgun.
[0215] As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" may
be intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context
clearly indicates otherwise. The terms "comprises," "comprising,"
"including," and "having," are inclusive and therefore specify the
presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements,
and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of
one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements,
components, and/or groups thereof. The method steps, processes, and
operations described herein are not to be construed as necessarily
requiring their performance in the particular order discussed or
illustrated, unless specifically identified as an order of
performance. It is also to be understood that additional or
alternative steps may be employed.
[0216] When an element or layer is referred to as being "on,"
"engaged to," "connected to," or "coupled to" another element or
layer, it may be directly on, engaged, connected or coupled to the
other element or layer, or intervening elements or layers may be
present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being
"directly on," "directly engaged to," "directly connected to," or
"directly coupled to" another element or layer, there may be no
intervening elements or layers present. Other words used to
describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in
a like fashion (e.g., "between" versus "directly between,"
"adjacent" versus "directly adjacent," etc.). As used herein, the
term "and/or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of
the associated listed items.
[0217] Although the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used
herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers
and/or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and/or
sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be
only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or
section from another region, layer or section. Terms such as
"first," "second," and other numerical terms when used herein do
not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the
context. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section
discussed below could be termed a second element, component,
region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of
the example embodiments.
[0218] Terms of degree such as "generally," "substantially,"
"approximately," and "about" may be used herein when describing the
relative positions, sizes, dimensions, or values of various
elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections. These terms
mean that such relative positions, sizes, dimensions, or values are
within the defined range or comparison (e.g., equal or close to
equal) with sufficient precision as would be understood by one of
ordinary skill in the art in the context of the various elements,
components, regions, layers and/or sections being described.
[0219] While certain features of the described implementations have
been illustrated as described herein, many modifications,
substitutions, changes and equivalents will now occur to those
skilled in the art. It is, therefore, to be understood that the
appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and
changes as fall within the scope of the embodiments.
* * * * *