CA1329700C - Cord retainer for a portable electric tool - Google Patents
Cord retainer for a portable electric toolInfo
- Publication number
- CA1329700C CA1329700C CA000599284A CA599284A CA1329700C CA 1329700 C CA1329700 C CA 1329700C CA 000599284 A CA000599284 A CA 000599284A CA 599284 A CA599284 A CA 599284A CA 1329700 C CA1329700 C CA 1329700C
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- cord
- loop
- retaining member
- retaining
- cavity
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired - Fee Related
Links
- 230000014759 maintenance of location Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 5
- 230000037361 pathway Effects 0.000 claims description 12
- 238000003780 insertion Methods 0.000 claims description 8
- 230000037431 insertion Effects 0.000 claims description 8
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 claims 6
- 230000001154 acute effect Effects 0.000 claims 2
- 102000011842 Serrate-Jagged Proteins Human genes 0.000 description 1
- 108010036039 Serrate-Jagged Proteins Proteins 0.000 description 1
- 230000008859 change Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000295 complement effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000002991 molded plastic Substances 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
- H01R13/00—Details of coupling devices of the kinds covered by groups H01R12/70 or H01R24/00 - H01R33/00
- H01R13/62—Means for facilitating engagement or disengagement of coupling parts or for holding them in engagement
- H01R13/639—Additional means for holding or locking coupling parts together, after engagement, e.g. separate keylock, retainer strap
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L9/00—Details or accessories of suction cleaners, e.g. mechanical means for controlling the suction or for effecting pulsating action; Storing devices specially adapted to suction cleaners or parts thereof; Carrying-vehicles specially adapted for suction cleaners
- A47L9/26—Incorporation of winding devices for electric cables
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
- H01R13/00—Details of coupling devices of the kinds covered by groups H01R12/70 or H01R24/00 - H01R33/00
- H01R13/72—Means for accommodating flexible lead within the holder
Abstract
ABSTRACT OF THE DISCLOSURE
A cord retention system for a portable electric power tool such as a string trimmer, hedge trimmer, or drill, that is adapted to releasably secure a loop of extension cord in a cavity formed in the handle of the tool. A retaining member pivotably mounted within the cavity in the handle is adapted to capture the loop of extension cord and secure it against withdrawal in its normally biased lock position.
To release the extension cord, the user actuates the retaining member causing it to pivot upwardly and free the loop of extension cord, thereby permitting withdrawal of the cord from the handle. The retaining member has a cam surface on its leading edge that is engaged by the loop of cord as it is inserted into the cavity in the handle so that the retaining member will automatically pivot upwardly into the release position to permit the loop of cord to be inserted beyond the retaining member, and thereafter pivot downwardly into the lock position under the bias of a spring.
A cord retention system for a portable electric power tool such as a string trimmer, hedge trimmer, or drill, that is adapted to releasably secure a loop of extension cord in a cavity formed in the handle of the tool. A retaining member pivotably mounted within the cavity in the handle is adapted to capture the loop of extension cord and secure it against withdrawal in its normally biased lock position.
To release the extension cord, the user actuates the retaining member causing it to pivot upwardly and free the loop of extension cord, thereby permitting withdrawal of the cord from the handle. The retaining member has a cam surface on its leading edge that is engaged by the loop of cord as it is inserted into the cavity in the handle so that the retaining member will automatically pivot upwardly into the release position to permit the loop of cord to be inserted beyond the retaining member, and thereafter pivot downwardly into the lock position under the bias of a spring.
Description
~3297~
CORD RETAINER FOR A PORI'ABLE EIECTRIC TOOL
Backsround and Summary The present invention relates to portable electric p~wer tools and in particular to a cord retainer for hold mg an extension cord that is plugged into a portable electric tool in a manner that permits the extension cord to be readily removed.
Many portable outdoor electric power tools, such as string tr;~mers and hedge trimmers, are typically provided with very short pcwer cords as these tools are intended to be used with lengthy extension cords. However, it is often a problem when operating such tools preventing the extension cord from becoming disconnected from the power tool. Even when the end of the extension cord is looped arDund and tied to the end of the power too:L cord, the plug ends can nonetheless work themselves apart sufficiently as the tool is beLng used to interrupt power to the tool~ MDreover, as it heco~es more common for pow~r tools to be equipped simply with a male electric receptacle, eliminating the integral power cord altogether, the need for a convenient m~ans of removably securing an extension cord to a power tool beccmes even more apparent.
Accordingly, it is the primary object of the present invention to provide an improved cord retaining system for a portable electric power tool.
In addition, it is an object of the present invention to provide a cord retaining system that is integral with the power *ool ~;'', ~
,., ,. , .. ;
~" ' i3~9~0 and provides a convenient means for removably securing the end of an extension cord to the pcwer tool, Furthermore, it is an object of the present invention to provide an improved cord retaining system that is convenient and simple to use, and yet is inexpensive to manufacture and does not detract from the overall external appearance of the power tool.
It is also an object of the present invention to pro~ide an improved cord retaining system for portable electric tools ~hat is adapted to securely retain cords of many different thicknesses or diameters.
Additional objects and advantages of the present invention wlll become apparent from a reading of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments which makes reference to the ~:
drawings in which:
Brief DescriEtion of the Drawings Figure 1 is a perspective view of a portable electric string trimmer incorporating the cord retaining system according to the ' present invention Figures 2~ - 2c are enlarged partial cu~away views of the handle portion of the tool shcwn in Figure 1 illustrating the insertion and capture of the loop of extension cord by the cord retaining system;
Figure 3 is a bottom view of the handle portion shcwn in Figure 2;
Figure 4 is an end view of the handle portion shown in Fig~re 2;
.~ :
, ., ..... , .. . . . : ~
13297~(3 Figure 5 is a perspective view of a portable electric hedge trimmer incorporating the cord retaining system of the present invention; and Figure 6 is a perspective view of a portable electric drill incorporating an alternative embodiment of the cord retaining system according to the present invention.
Detailed Description of the Preferred E~bcdiments With reference to Figure 1, there is depicted generally at 10 a portable electric string trimmer. m e trimmer lO shown generally comprises a housing element 12 having a motor housing p,ortion 14 and a housing extension 16. The housing extension 16 is adapted ta mount a wand 18 and handle 20 by which means the trimmer may be held during operation. The housing extension 16 and motor housing 14 are formed integrally and are generally hollow. m e hous,ing extension 16 further contains a hollow member or conduit for conducting a length of cutting filament 15 from a supply through the housing extension to the tor.
The motor housing 14 is an open bottomed structure and receives a conventional electric motor having a rotary power o~tput shaft that is drivingly coupled to a slinger head Inot shown) at the base of the motor housing 14. The slinger head is adapted to receive a length of filament for rotation therewith. A free end of the filament 15 extends out frcm the perimeter of the slinger head so that when the filam~nt is rotated with the slinger head, the free end of the filament will he whipped around very rapidly and will define a cutting element for engaging and cutting through vegetation.
1 .
132970~
As shown in Figure 1, a shield 17 is provided and supported below the motor housing 14. The shield serves to protect against stones or other debris being thrown back toward the operator.
The cutting filament 15 ccmprises a stationary supply of continuous filament line which is stored in a spool 21 which may be supported on the housing 12 or wand 18. In the preferred embodiment, an auxiliary handle 19 is mounted on the wand 18 to facilitate guidance of the tri~mer during use. The spcol 21 of cutting filament may be conveniently mounted on this auxiliary handle for convenient access thereto.
Further details of the construction and operation of the string trImmer 10 may be found in U.S. Patent No. 4,338,719 to Bur~holder, assigned to the assignee of the present invention.
Referring to Figure 2, an en],arged partial cutaway view of the upper handle portion of the string trimmer 10 incorporating the cord retaining system of the present invention is shown. The handle 20 is constructed of a molded plastic material and is formed frcm tw~
complementary clamshell half sections that are joined together and sec~red by bolts to the upper end of metal wand 18. m e handle 20 includes a trigger guard 24 and a trigger 26 that is pivotably mounted within the handle so that it projects fr~m an opening in the underside ' of the handle 20. The trigger 26 is adapted to actuate an on/off -' switch 28 mounted within the handle when the trigger is pivoted upwardly in a clockwise direction against the bias of a trigger spring ,-30. m e on/off switch 28 is also biased into the normally off '' position. ...
.. .
., ;
~.,, ,~ . .. .... . . . .
.
,, ' ', `
,, ' ' ' ' ' . ' ~ , ' '' , :, ~32970~
The on/off switch 28 is electrically connected between the tor and a ~ale receptacle 32 mounted at the rear of the handle 20 to control the application of electric power to the motor. The male receptacle 32 illustrated in the drawings is a conventional tw~-prong receptacle that is mounted within a recessed opening 34 formed in the rear of the handle 20. Preferably, the receptacle 32 is sufficiently recessed as shown so that the prongs 36 of the receptacle do not project beyond the end face 38 of the handle 20. The recessed opening 34 formed in the rear of the handle 20 is config~red so as to easily accommsdate the enlarged female connector end 42 of a conventional 12- or 14-qauge outdoor extension cord 40.
Once connected to the male receptacle 32, the present invention provides a unique means of securing the extension cord to the handle 20 of the string trimmer so as to prev~nt it from becom mg accidentall~ disconnected from the tool. In particular, the cord retaining system according to the present invention is integrally designed with the handle 20 of the tool and includes a cord retention member 45 that is pivotably mounted at 48 within a cavity 58 formed in the handle 20. Retaining member 45 comprises a trigger portion 44 that projects from a second opening 47 in the underside of the handle, and a hook portion 46 that defines a semicircular recess 54 in the retaining member 45. As best illustrated in Figure 2a, the diameter of the semicircular recess 54 in the retaining member 45 is greater than the diameter of a conventional 12-gauge outdoor extension cord--the largest sized extension cord that would typicallv be used with the product. The recess 54 in the retaining member 45, together with the bottom wall 64 of the handle 20, defines a captuxe zone or ~32~700 area into which a loop of the extension cord 40 is to be inserted. In addition, retaining member 45 has an integrally formed spring arm 50 extending forward of pivot 48 that acts upon a boss 52 formed in a wall of the handle 20 to bias the member 45 counterclockwise into its extended position.
m e present cord retaining system functions in the foll~ing manner. After the female end 42 of the extension coxd 40 is plugged into the male receptacle 32, the user forms a loop in the extension cord, m e loop of cord is then inserted into the openiny 60 at the rear of the tool handle 20 below the male receptacle 32 along a pathway to a first position where it c~ntacts a cam surface 56 formed on the rear face of the cord retaining member 45 (Figure 2b). Further insertion of the loop of cord against the cam surface 56 causes the retaining member 45 to pivot upwardly in a clockwise direction against the bias of spring arm 50 (Figure 2c) until the apex 41 of the loop of cord clears the hook portion 46 of the retaining me~ber 45. A stop surface 62 defined by the upwardly projecting portion of the bottom wall 64 of the handle 20 immediately helow the opening 47 establishes the base of the ca~rity 58 and is provided to prevent insertion of the cord 40 beyond the appropriate capture zone. Once the loop of cord is in this second position wherein the apex 41 of the loop has cleared ~he hook portion 46, the retaining member 45 snaps back downward to its original position under the force of spring arm 50, thereby capturing the loop of cord 40 within the recess 54 (Figure 2a).
With particular reference to Figure 4, it will be appreciated that when captured by the retaining me~er 45, the loop of cord is completely encircled on four sides by the walls of the handle : .
,, ~ , ~ 3297~0 20, thereb~v insuring that the cord 40 is secured against accidental withdrawal. In particular, the opening 60 and accompanying pathway into which the cord 40 is inserted is defined by bottom wall 64, side walls 68 and 70, and upper wall 66, which also separates the cord opening 60 frcm the receptacle opening 34. The vertical spacing between the upper wall 66 and bottcm wall 64 is such that the loop of cord is confined to a substantially horizontal plane when inserted into handle 20. By confining the loop of cord on all four sides as described, the cord 40 is prevented from twisting and pulling at odd angles during use of the tcol, which could result in the cord working itself free frQm the retaining member 45.
In addition, as best shown in Figure 2, it will be noted that the pivot point 48 for the retaining member 45 is positioned as close as possible to the plane of the loop of cord. Thus, tension on the cord 40 will result in a pulling force that is directed along a line that defines a relatively shallcw angle relati.ve to the orientation of the retaining member 45. In this manner, tension on the cord 40 will only cause the cord loop to more tightly grip the hook portion 46 of the retaining member 45, rather than tending to pivot the retaining member upwardly out of engagement with the cord loop.
To release the loop of cord 40, the trigger portion 44 is en~aged b~ the user and retracted into the handle, caus.ing the retaining member 45 to pivot upwardly freeing the loop of cord and thereby permitting the cord to be withdrawn from the handle 20.
Optionally, as shown in Figure 6, a release lever 72 may be provided which is integrally connected to the retaining member 45 and is , 132~
accessible to the user through a slot 74 formed in the side of the handle 20. In this embodiment, the loop of cord is released by lifting the lever 72 to pivot the retaining member 45 upwardly out of engagement with the loop of cord 40.
As previously noted, the size of the semicircular recess 54 in the retaining member 4S is preferably larger than necessary to accommcdate the diameter of the extension cord 40. m e purpose of this oversized dimension is to provide a means of freeiny the loop of cord 40 in the event it becomes stuck to the hook portion 46 of the retaining member 45. Specifically, under certain circumstances, particularly with a large extension cord that is relatively stiff, the loop of cord may become fairly tightly wrapped æound the hook portion 46 o the retaining member 45. Under such circumstances, the loop of cord 40 may not freely drop out of the recess 54 when the retaining me~ber 45 is raised. When this occurs, the oversized recess 54 allows the user of the tool to push the loop of cord 40 further into the handle a short distan~e and thereby free the loop of cord from the hook portion 46 of the retaining member 45.
Additionally, in applications where the use of relatively small-sized extensiorl cords is contemplated, it may be found desirable to serrate or otherwise roughen the semicircular recessed surface 54 of the hook portion 46 of the retaining member 45 to lmprove the holdin~ force of the retaining member 45. -Referring to Figures 5 and 6, the application of the present invention to other t~pes of portable electric power tcols, including hedge trimmers 76 and drills 78, is also shown. These examples are intended to be illustrative of the adaptability of the present cord : . :
:. . .
.
:: -: , . ' . : . .
.
.
retaining system only and are not intended to suggest or imply that the present invention is not equally applicable to other types of portable electric power tools not specifically illustrated herein.
Thus, it will be appreciated that the present invention provides an improved cord retention system for releasably securing to a portable electric power tool the end of an extension cord that is electrically connected to the tool. In addition, the present cord retention system is integrally designed into the handle of the power tool and is therefore convenient and simple to operate. Moreover, the present invention i9 adapted to operate efectively with cords of various sizes and can be readily and inexpensively incorporated into a wide variety of existing power tool designs.
While the above description constitutes the preferred embodiments o the invention, it will be appreciated that the invention is susceptible to modification, variation, and change without departing fram the proper scope or fair meaning of the acccmpanying claims.
CORD RETAINER FOR A PORI'ABLE EIECTRIC TOOL
Backsround and Summary The present invention relates to portable electric p~wer tools and in particular to a cord retainer for hold mg an extension cord that is plugged into a portable electric tool in a manner that permits the extension cord to be readily removed.
Many portable outdoor electric power tools, such as string tr;~mers and hedge trimmers, are typically provided with very short pcwer cords as these tools are intended to be used with lengthy extension cords. However, it is often a problem when operating such tools preventing the extension cord from becoming disconnected from the power tool. Even when the end of the extension cord is looped arDund and tied to the end of the power too:L cord, the plug ends can nonetheless work themselves apart sufficiently as the tool is beLng used to interrupt power to the tool~ MDreover, as it heco~es more common for pow~r tools to be equipped simply with a male electric receptacle, eliminating the integral power cord altogether, the need for a convenient m~ans of removably securing an extension cord to a power tool beccmes even more apparent.
Accordingly, it is the primary object of the present invention to provide an improved cord retaining system for a portable electric power tool.
In addition, it is an object of the present invention to provide a cord retaining system that is integral with the power *ool ~;'', ~
,., ,. , .. ;
~" ' i3~9~0 and provides a convenient means for removably securing the end of an extension cord to the pcwer tool, Furthermore, it is an object of the present invention to provide an improved cord retaining system that is convenient and simple to use, and yet is inexpensive to manufacture and does not detract from the overall external appearance of the power tool.
It is also an object of the present invention to pro~ide an improved cord retaining system for portable electric tools ~hat is adapted to securely retain cords of many different thicknesses or diameters.
Additional objects and advantages of the present invention wlll become apparent from a reading of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments which makes reference to the ~:
drawings in which:
Brief DescriEtion of the Drawings Figure 1 is a perspective view of a portable electric string trimmer incorporating the cord retaining system according to the ' present invention Figures 2~ - 2c are enlarged partial cu~away views of the handle portion of the tool shcwn in Figure 1 illustrating the insertion and capture of the loop of extension cord by the cord retaining system;
Figure 3 is a bottom view of the handle portion shcwn in Figure 2;
Figure 4 is an end view of the handle portion shown in Fig~re 2;
.~ :
, ., ..... , .. . . . : ~
13297~(3 Figure 5 is a perspective view of a portable electric hedge trimmer incorporating the cord retaining system of the present invention; and Figure 6 is a perspective view of a portable electric drill incorporating an alternative embodiment of the cord retaining system according to the present invention.
Detailed Description of the Preferred E~bcdiments With reference to Figure 1, there is depicted generally at 10 a portable electric string trimmer. m e trimmer lO shown generally comprises a housing element 12 having a motor housing p,ortion 14 and a housing extension 16. The housing extension 16 is adapted ta mount a wand 18 and handle 20 by which means the trimmer may be held during operation. The housing extension 16 and motor housing 14 are formed integrally and are generally hollow. m e hous,ing extension 16 further contains a hollow member or conduit for conducting a length of cutting filament 15 from a supply through the housing extension to the tor.
The motor housing 14 is an open bottomed structure and receives a conventional electric motor having a rotary power o~tput shaft that is drivingly coupled to a slinger head Inot shown) at the base of the motor housing 14. The slinger head is adapted to receive a length of filament for rotation therewith. A free end of the filament 15 extends out frcm the perimeter of the slinger head so that when the filam~nt is rotated with the slinger head, the free end of the filament will he whipped around very rapidly and will define a cutting element for engaging and cutting through vegetation.
1 .
132970~
As shown in Figure 1, a shield 17 is provided and supported below the motor housing 14. The shield serves to protect against stones or other debris being thrown back toward the operator.
The cutting filament 15 ccmprises a stationary supply of continuous filament line which is stored in a spool 21 which may be supported on the housing 12 or wand 18. In the preferred embodiment, an auxiliary handle 19 is mounted on the wand 18 to facilitate guidance of the tri~mer during use. The spcol 21 of cutting filament may be conveniently mounted on this auxiliary handle for convenient access thereto.
Further details of the construction and operation of the string trImmer 10 may be found in U.S. Patent No. 4,338,719 to Bur~holder, assigned to the assignee of the present invention.
Referring to Figure 2, an en],arged partial cutaway view of the upper handle portion of the string trimmer 10 incorporating the cord retaining system of the present invention is shown. The handle 20 is constructed of a molded plastic material and is formed frcm tw~
complementary clamshell half sections that are joined together and sec~red by bolts to the upper end of metal wand 18. m e handle 20 includes a trigger guard 24 and a trigger 26 that is pivotably mounted within the handle so that it projects fr~m an opening in the underside ' of the handle 20. The trigger 26 is adapted to actuate an on/off -' switch 28 mounted within the handle when the trigger is pivoted upwardly in a clockwise direction against the bias of a trigger spring ,-30. m e on/off switch 28 is also biased into the normally off '' position. ...
.. .
., ;
~.,, ,~ . .. .... . . . .
.
,, ' ', `
,, ' ' ' ' ' . ' ~ , ' '' , :, ~32970~
The on/off switch 28 is electrically connected between the tor and a ~ale receptacle 32 mounted at the rear of the handle 20 to control the application of electric power to the motor. The male receptacle 32 illustrated in the drawings is a conventional tw~-prong receptacle that is mounted within a recessed opening 34 formed in the rear of the handle 20. Preferably, the receptacle 32 is sufficiently recessed as shown so that the prongs 36 of the receptacle do not project beyond the end face 38 of the handle 20. The recessed opening 34 formed in the rear of the handle 20 is config~red so as to easily accommsdate the enlarged female connector end 42 of a conventional 12- or 14-qauge outdoor extension cord 40.
Once connected to the male receptacle 32, the present invention provides a unique means of securing the extension cord to the handle 20 of the string trimmer so as to prev~nt it from becom mg accidentall~ disconnected from the tool. In particular, the cord retaining system according to the present invention is integrally designed with the handle 20 of the tool and includes a cord retention member 45 that is pivotably mounted at 48 within a cavity 58 formed in the handle 20. Retaining member 45 comprises a trigger portion 44 that projects from a second opening 47 in the underside of the handle, and a hook portion 46 that defines a semicircular recess 54 in the retaining member 45. As best illustrated in Figure 2a, the diameter of the semicircular recess 54 in the retaining member 45 is greater than the diameter of a conventional 12-gauge outdoor extension cord--the largest sized extension cord that would typicallv be used with the product. The recess 54 in the retaining member 45, together with the bottom wall 64 of the handle 20, defines a captuxe zone or ~32~700 area into which a loop of the extension cord 40 is to be inserted. In addition, retaining member 45 has an integrally formed spring arm 50 extending forward of pivot 48 that acts upon a boss 52 formed in a wall of the handle 20 to bias the member 45 counterclockwise into its extended position.
m e present cord retaining system functions in the foll~ing manner. After the female end 42 of the extension coxd 40 is plugged into the male receptacle 32, the user forms a loop in the extension cord, m e loop of cord is then inserted into the openiny 60 at the rear of the tool handle 20 below the male receptacle 32 along a pathway to a first position where it c~ntacts a cam surface 56 formed on the rear face of the cord retaining member 45 (Figure 2b). Further insertion of the loop of cord against the cam surface 56 causes the retaining member 45 to pivot upwardly in a clockwise direction against the bias of spring arm 50 (Figure 2c) until the apex 41 of the loop of cord clears the hook portion 46 of the retaining me~ber 45. A stop surface 62 defined by the upwardly projecting portion of the bottom wall 64 of the handle 20 immediately helow the opening 47 establishes the base of the ca~rity 58 and is provided to prevent insertion of the cord 40 beyond the appropriate capture zone. Once the loop of cord is in this second position wherein the apex 41 of the loop has cleared ~he hook portion 46, the retaining member 45 snaps back downward to its original position under the force of spring arm 50, thereby capturing the loop of cord 40 within the recess 54 (Figure 2a).
With particular reference to Figure 4, it will be appreciated that when captured by the retaining me~er 45, the loop of cord is completely encircled on four sides by the walls of the handle : .
,, ~ , ~ 3297~0 20, thereb~v insuring that the cord 40 is secured against accidental withdrawal. In particular, the opening 60 and accompanying pathway into which the cord 40 is inserted is defined by bottom wall 64, side walls 68 and 70, and upper wall 66, which also separates the cord opening 60 frcm the receptacle opening 34. The vertical spacing between the upper wall 66 and bottcm wall 64 is such that the loop of cord is confined to a substantially horizontal plane when inserted into handle 20. By confining the loop of cord on all four sides as described, the cord 40 is prevented from twisting and pulling at odd angles during use of the tcol, which could result in the cord working itself free frQm the retaining member 45.
In addition, as best shown in Figure 2, it will be noted that the pivot point 48 for the retaining member 45 is positioned as close as possible to the plane of the loop of cord. Thus, tension on the cord 40 will result in a pulling force that is directed along a line that defines a relatively shallcw angle relati.ve to the orientation of the retaining member 45. In this manner, tension on the cord 40 will only cause the cord loop to more tightly grip the hook portion 46 of the retaining member 45, rather than tending to pivot the retaining member upwardly out of engagement with the cord loop.
To release the loop of cord 40, the trigger portion 44 is en~aged b~ the user and retracted into the handle, caus.ing the retaining member 45 to pivot upwardly freeing the loop of cord and thereby permitting the cord to be withdrawn from the handle 20.
Optionally, as shown in Figure 6, a release lever 72 may be provided which is integrally connected to the retaining member 45 and is , 132~
accessible to the user through a slot 74 formed in the side of the handle 20. In this embodiment, the loop of cord is released by lifting the lever 72 to pivot the retaining member 45 upwardly out of engagement with the loop of cord 40.
As previously noted, the size of the semicircular recess 54 in the retaining member 4S is preferably larger than necessary to accommcdate the diameter of the extension cord 40. m e purpose of this oversized dimension is to provide a means of freeiny the loop of cord 40 in the event it becomes stuck to the hook portion 46 of the retaining member 45. Specifically, under certain circumstances, particularly with a large extension cord that is relatively stiff, the loop of cord may become fairly tightly wrapped æound the hook portion 46 o the retaining member 45. Under such circumstances, the loop of cord 40 may not freely drop out of the recess 54 when the retaining me~ber 45 is raised. When this occurs, the oversized recess 54 allows the user of the tool to push the loop of cord 40 further into the handle a short distan~e and thereby free the loop of cord from the hook portion 46 of the retaining member 45.
Additionally, in applications where the use of relatively small-sized extensiorl cords is contemplated, it may be found desirable to serrate or otherwise roughen the semicircular recessed surface 54 of the hook portion 46 of the retaining member 45 to lmprove the holdin~ force of the retaining member 45. -Referring to Figures 5 and 6, the application of the present invention to other t~pes of portable electric power tcols, including hedge trimmers 76 and drills 78, is also shown. These examples are intended to be illustrative of the adaptability of the present cord : . :
:. . .
.
:: -: , . ' . : . .
.
.
retaining system only and are not intended to suggest or imply that the present invention is not equally applicable to other types of portable electric power tools not specifically illustrated herein.
Thus, it will be appreciated that the present invention provides an improved cord retention system for releasably securing to a portable electric power tool the end of an extension cord that is electrically connected to the tool. In addition, the present cord retention system is integrally designed into the handle of the power tool and is therefore convenient and simple to operate. Moreover, the present invention i9 adapted to operate efectively with cords of various sizes and can be readily and inexpensively incorporated into a wide variety of existing power tool designs.
While the above description constitutes the preferred embodiments o the invention, it will be appreciated that the invention is susceptible to modification, variation, and change without departing fram the proper scope or fair meaning of the acccmpanying claims.
Claims (68)
1. A portable electric power tool comprising a motor, electrical connector means electrically connected to the motor and adapted for electrical connection to one end of a power cord, a housing having a first opening which communicates with a cavity formed in said housing that is adapted to receive a loop of said cord when inserted through said first opening, and a cord retaining member mounted within said cavity and movable between a first position wherein a portion of said retaining member is positioned between the apex of said loop of cord and said first opening whereby said cord is secured against withdrawal from said housing, and a second position wherein said portion of said cord retaining member is removed from between the apex of said loop of cord and said first opening thereby permitting said loop of cord to be withdrawn from said housing.
2. The portable electric power tool of claim 1 wherein said housing includes a handle for said tool and further wherein said first opening and said cavity are located in said handle.
3. The portable electric power tool of claim 2 further including bias means for biasing said cord retaining member into said first position.
4. The portable electric power tool of claim 1 further including a release member connected to said cord retaining member and accessible to a user of the tool through a second opening formed in said housing for permitting the user to move said cord retaining member from said first position to said second position.
5. The portable electric power tool of claim 3 wherein said cord retaining member includes camming means operatively associated with said loop for moving said cord retaining member against the bias of said bias means from said first position into said second position until the apex of said loop of cord is inserted beyond said portion of said cord remaining member.
6. The portable electric power tool of claim 5 wherein said camming means comprises a cam surface on said cord retaining member facing said first opening that is adapted to be contacted by said loop of cord as it is inserted into said cavity.
7. The portable electric power tool of claim 5 wherein said bias means is adapted to return said retaining member to said first position after said loop of cord is inserted beyond said portion of said retaining member.
8. The portable electric power tool of claim 1 wherein said first opening in said housing is defined by four walls of said housing which confine the loop of cord substantially to a single plane when inserted therein.
9. The portable electric power tool of claim 8 wherein said cord retaining member is adapted to move between said first and second positions along a path substantially perpendicular to said plane.
10. The portable electric power tool of claim 2 wherein said portion of said retaining member includes a hook and a recess in said retaining member which defines a capture zone for securing said loop of cord.
11. The portable electric power tool of claim 10 wherein the size of said recess is greater than the diameter of said cord.
12. A cord retaining system for securing a loop of cord in a housing of a portable electric power tool in which said housing of the tool includes a first opening which communicates with a cavity formed in said housing that is adapted to receive said loop of cord when inserted through said first opening;
said cord retaining system comprising a retaining member mounted within said cavity of said housing and movable between a first position wherein a portion of said retaining member is positioned between said loop of cord and said first opening whereby said cord is secured against withdrawal from said housing, and a second position wherein said portion of said retaining member is removed from between said loop of cord and said first opening thereby permitting said cord to be withdrawn from said housing.
said cord retaining system comprising a retaining member mounted within said cavity of said housing and movable between a first position wherein a portion of said retaining member is positioned between said loop of cord and said first opening whereby said cord is secured against withdrawal from said housing, and a second position wherein said portion of said retaining member is removed from between said loop of cord and said first opening thereby permitting said cord to be withdrawn from said housing.
13. The cord retaining system of claim 12 wherein said housing includes a handle for the tool and further wherein said first opening and cavity are located in said handle.
14. The cord retaining system of claim 13 further including bias means for biasing said retaining member into said first position.
15. The cord retaining system of claim 12 further including a release member connected to said retaining member and accessible to the user of a tool through a second opening formed in said housing for permitting the user to move said retaining member from said first position to said second position.
16. The cord retaining system of claim 14 wherein said retaining member includes camming means operatively associated with said loop for moving said retaining member against the bias of said bias means from said first position into said second position until the apex of said loop of cord is inserted beyond said portion of said retaining member.
17. The cord retaining system of claim 16 wherein said camming means comprises a cam surface on said retaining member facing said first opening that is adapted to be contacted by said loop of cord as it is inserted into said cavity.
18. The cord retaining system of claim 16 wherein said bias means is adapted to return said retaining member to said first position after said loop of cord is inserted beyond said portion of said retaining member.
19. The cord retaining system of claim 12 wherein said first opening in said housing is defined by four walls of said housing which confine the loop of cord substantially to a single plane when inserted therein.
20. The cord retaining system of claim 19 wherein said retaining member is adapted to move between said first and second positions along a path substantially perpendicular to said plane.
21. The cord retaining system of claim 13 wherein said portion of said retaining member includes a hook and a recess in said retaining member which defines a capture zone for securing said loop of cord.
22. The cord retaining system of claim 21 wherein the size of said recess is greater than the diameter of said cord.
23. A cord retaining system for securing a loop of extension cord in a handle of a portable electric power tool in which the handle of the tool includes a first opening which communicates with a cavity formed in said handle that is adapted to receive said loop of extension cord when inserted through said first opening;
said cord retaining system comprising:
a retaining member pivotably mounted within said cavity of said handle, said retaining member having a hook portion and a recess formed therein adjacent said hook portion that defines a capture zone for said loop of extension cord; and spring means for biasing said retaining member into a first position wherein said hook portion obstructs the passage of said loop of extension cord between said first opening and said capture zone;
said retaining member further having a cam surface facing said first opening that is adapted to be contacted by the loop of extension cord as it is inserted through said first opening into said cavity for causing said retaining member to pivot against the bias of said spring means from said first position to a second position wherein said loop of cord is permitted to pass said hook portion into said capture zone whereby said spring means causes said retaining member to pivot back to said first position and capture said loop of extension cord in said recess;
said retaining member still further having manually actuable means accessible to a user of the tool through a second opening in said handle for pivoting said retaining member against the bias of said spring means from said first position to said second position to release said hook portion from said loop of extension cord and permit withdrawal of said loop of extension cord from said handle.
said cord retaining system comprising:
a retaining member pivotably mounted within said cavity of said handle, said retaining member having a hook portion and a recess formed therein adjacent said hook portion that defines a capture zone for said loop of extension cord; and spring means for biasing said retaining member into a first position wherein said hook portion obstructs the passage of said loop of extension cord between said first opening and said capture zone;
said retaining member further having a cam surface facing said first opening that is adapted to be contacted by the loop of extension cord as it is inserted through said first opening into said cavity for causing said retaining member to pivot against the bias of said spring means from said first position to a second position wherein said loop of cord is permitted to pass said hook portion into said capture zone whereby said spring means causes said retaining member to pivot back to said first position and capture said loop of extension cord in said recess;
said retaining member still further having manually actuable means accessible to a user of the tool through a second opening in said handle for pivoting said retaining member against the bias of said spring means from said first position to said second position to release said hook portion from said loop of extension cord and permit withdrawal of said loop of extension cord from said handle.
24. The cord retaining system of claim 23 wherein said first opening in said housing is defined by four walls of said housing which confine the loop of extension cord substantially to a single plane when inserted therein.
25. The cord retaining system of claim 24 wherein said retaining member is adapted to pivot between said first and second positions along a path substantially perpendicular to said plane.
26. The cord retaining system of claim 25 wherein the pivot point of said retaining member is located relatively close to said plane and the orientation of said retaining member in said first position relative to said plane defines a relatively small acute angle.
27. A portable electric power tool comprising a motor, electrical connector means electrically connected to the motor and adapted for electrical connection to one end of an extension cord, and a cord retaining system for securing a loop of the extension cord in a handle of the tool, said handle having a first opening which communicates with a cavity formed in said handle that is adapted to receive said loop of extension cord when inserted through said first opening; said cord retaining system including:
a retaining member pivotably mounted within said cavity of said handle, said retaining member having a hook portion and a recess formed therein adjacent said hook portion that defines a capture zone for said loop of extension cord; and spring means for biasing said retaining member into a first position wherein said hook portion obstructs the passage of said loop of extension cord between said first opening and said capture zone;
said retaining member further having a cam surface facing said first opening that is adapted to be contacted by the loop of extension cord as it is inserted through said first opening into said cavity for causing said retaining member to pivot against the bias of said spring means from said first position to a second position wherein said loop of cord is permitted to pass said hook portion into said capture zone whereby said spring means causes said retaining member to pivot back to said first position and capture said loop of extension cord in said recess;
said retaining member still further having manually actuable means accessible to a user of the tool through a second opening in said handle for pivoting said retaining member against the bias of said spring means from said first position to said second position to release said hook portion from said loop of extension cord and permit withdrawal of said loop of extension cord from said handle.
a retaining member pivotably mounted within said cavity of said handle, said retaining member having a hook portion and a recess formed therein adjacent said hook portion that defines a capture zone for said loop of extension cord; and spring means for biasing said retaining member into a first position wherein said hook portion obstructs the passage of said loop of extension cord between said first opening and said capture zone;
said retaining member further having a cam surface facing said first opening that is adapted to be contacted by the loop of extension cord as it is inserted through said first opening into said cavity for causing said retaining member to pivot against the bias of said spring means from said first position to a second position wherein said loop of cord is permitted to pass said hook portion into said capture zone whereby said spring means causes said retaining member to pivot back to said first position and capture said loop of extension cord in said recess;
said retaining member still further having manually actuable means accessible to a user of the tool through a second opening in said handle for pivoting said retaining member against the bias of said spring means from said first position to said second position to release said hook portion from said loop of extension cord and permit withdrawal of said loop of extension cord from said handle.
28. The portable electric power tool of claim 27 wherein said first opening in said housing is defined by four walls of said housing which confine the loop of extension cord substantially to a single plane when inserted therein.
29. The portable electric power tool of claim 28 wherein said retaining member is adapted to pivot between said first and second positions along a path substantially perpendicular to said plane.
30. The portable electric power tool of claim 29 wherein the pivot point of said retaining member is located relatively close to said plane and the orientation of said retaining member in said first position relative to saidplane defines a relatively small acute angle.
31. A portable electric power tool comprising a motor, electrical connector means electrically connected to the motor and adapted for electrical connection to one end of an extension cord, a handle, and a cord retaining system for securing a loop of the extension cord in a capture area within said handle, including a first opening in said handle communicates via a pathway to said capture area for permitting said loop of extension cord to be inserted thereinto, a retaining member mounted within said handle adjacent said capture area and movable between a first position wherein said retaining member obstructs said pathway and thereby prevents the withdrawal of said loop of extension cord from said capture area and a second position wherein said retaining member does not obstruct said pathway and thereby permits said loop of extension cord to be inserted into or withdrawn from said capture area, and actuator means connected to said retaining member and accessible to a user of the tool through a second opening in said handle for moving said retaining member from said first to said second positions.
32. The portable electric power tool of claim 31 further including spring means for biasing said retaining member into said first position.
33. The portable electric power tool of claim 32 further including means for automatically moving said retaining member from said first position to said second position as said loop of extension cord is inserted intosaid first opening along said pathway to said capture area.
34. The portable electric power tool of claim 33 wherein said retaining member includes a cam surface facing said first opening and adapted to engage said loop of extension cord as it is inserted into said first opening toward said capture area to cam said retaining member from said first position to said second position.
35. The portable electric power tool of claim 31 wherein said first opening in said handle is defined by four walls of said handle which form said pathway and confine the loop of extension cord substantially to a single plane when inserted therein.
36. The portable electric power tool of claim 35 wherein said retaining member is adapted to move between said first and second positions along a path substantially perpendicular to said plane.
37. A cord retaining system for securing a loop of extension cord in a capture area within a handle of a portable electric power tool, including a first opening in said handle that communicates via a pathway to said capture area for permitting said loop of extension cord to be inserted thereinto, a retaining member mounted within said handle adjacent said capture area and movable between a first position wherein said retaining member obstructs said pathway and thereby prevents the withdrawal of said loop of extension cord from said capture area and a second position wherein said retaining member does not obstruct said pathway and thereby permits said loop of extension cord to be inserted into or withdrawn from said capture area, and actuator means connected to said retaining member and accessible to the user of the tool through a second opening in said handle for moving said retaining member from said first to said second positions.
38. The cord retaining system of claim 37 further including spring means for biasing said retaining member into said first position.
39. The cord retaining system of claim 38 further including means for automatically moving said retaining member from said first position to said second position as said loop of extension cord is inserted into said first opening along said pathway to said capture area.
40. The cord retaining system of claim 39 wherein said retaining member includes a cam surface facing said first opening and adapted to engage said loop of extension cord as it is inserted into said first opening toward said capture area to cam said retaining member from said first position to said second position.
41. The cord retaining system of claim 40 wherein said first opening in said handle is defined by four walls of said handle which form said pathway and confine the loop of extension cord substantially to a single plane when inserted therein.
42. The cord retaining system of claim 41 wherein said retaining member is adapted to move between said first and second positions along a path substantially perpendicular to said plane.
43. A portable electric power tool comprising a motor, electrical connector means electrically connected to the motor and adapted for electrical connection to one end of an extension cord, a housing having a first opening which communicates with a cavity formed in said housing that is adapted to receive a loop of said extension cord when inserted through said first opening, and cord retaining means responsive to the insertion of said loop of extension cord into said cavity for causing said cord retaining means to move and capture said loop of extension cord to thereby automatically retain said loop of extension cord in said cavity.
44. The portable electric power tool of claim 43 wherein said cord retaining means captures said loop when said loop is moved from a first position to a second position.
45. The portable electric power tool of claim 43 wherein said tool includes a handle and said cavity is located within said handle.
46. The portable electric power tool of claim 43 wherein said cord retaining means includes camming means operatively associated with said loop of extension cord for causing said cord retaining means to move from a retaining position to a release position upon insertion of said loop of extension cord into said cavity.
47. The portable electric power tool of claim 46 further including bias means for normally biasing said cord retaining means into said retaining position.
48. The portable electric power tool of claim 47 wherein said bias is adapted to return said cord retaining means to said retaining position after said loop of extension cord has been completely inserted into said cavity.
49. The portable electric power tool of claim 43 further including release means connected to said cord retaining means and accessible to a user of the tool through a second opening in said housing for causing said cord retaining means to release said loop of extension cord and permit withdrawal thereof from said cavity.
50. A cord retaining system for securing a loop of an extension cord within a cavity formed in the housing of a portable electric power tool including retaining means located within said cavity and responsive to the insertion of said loop of extension cord into said cavity for causing said retaining means to move from a release position to a capture position to thereby automatically retain said loop of extension cord in said cavity.
51. The cord retaining system of claim 50 wherein said retaining means captures said loop when said loop is moved from a first position to a second position.
52. The cord retaining system of claim 50 wherein said tool includes a handle and said cavity is located within said handle.
53. The cord retaining system of claim 50 wherein said retaining means includes a cord retaining member and camming means operatively associated with said loop of extension cord for causing said cord retaining member to move from a retaining position to a release position upon insertion of said loop of extension cord into said cavity.
54. The cord retaining system of claim 53 wherein said retaining means further includes bias means for normally biasing said cord retaining member into said retaining position.
55. The cord retaining system of claim 54 wherein said bias means is adapted to return said cord retaining member to said retaining position after said loop of extension cord has been completely inserted into said cavity.
56. The cord retaining system of claim 50 further including second means connected to said retaining means and accessible to a user of the tool through an opening in said housing for causing said retaining means to release said loop of extension cord and permit withdrawal thereof from said cavity.
57. A portable electric power tool comprising a motor, electrical connector means electrically connected to the motor and adapted for electrical connection to one end of an extension cord, a housing having a first opening which communicates with a cavity formed in said housing that is adapted to receive a loop of said extension cord when inserted through said first opening, retaining means for releasably securing said loop of extension cord in said cavity, and means for maintaining said loop of extension cord substantially in a single plane within said cavity.
58. The portable electric power tool of claim 57 wherein said last-mentioned means is operatively associated with said retaining means.
59. The portable electric power tool of claim 57 wherein said tool includes a handle and said cavity is located within said handle.
60. A cord retention system for securing a loop of an extension cord within a cavity formed in a housing of a portable electric power tool including first means for releasably securing said loop of extension cord in said cavity, and second means for maintaining said loop of extension cord substantially in a single plane within said cavity.
61. The cord retaining system of claim 60 wherein said second means is operatively associated with said first means.
62. The cord retaining system of claim 60 wherein said tool includes a handle and said cavity is located within said handle.
63. A method of releasably securing a loop of extension cord having male and female connector ends within a cavity formed in a housing of a portable electric power tool having a motor and male connector means electrically connected to the motor, wherein the cavity within the housing has a capture area at the base thereof, and further wherein there is movably mounted in said cavity adjacent said capture area a retaining member;
including the steps of:
connecting the female connector end of the extension cord to said male connector means;
forming a loop in the extension cord adjacent said female connector end;
inserting said loop of extension cord into said cavity in said housing;
moving said retaining member to a first position providing unobstructed access to said capture area;
inserting said loop of extension cord into said capture area at the base of said cavity; and moving said retaining member from said first position to a second position obstructing access to said capture area to confine said loop of extension cord to said capture area and thereby secure said loop of extension cord against withdrawal from said cavity.
including the steps of:
connecting the female connector end of the extension cord to said male connector means;
forming a loop in the extension cord adjacent said female connector end;
inserting said loop of extension cord into said cavity in said housing;
moving said retaining member to a first position providing unobstructed access to said capture area;
inserting said loop of extension cord into said capture area at the base of said cavity; and moving said retaining member from said first position to a second position obstructing access to said capture area to confine said loop of extension cord to said capture area and thereby secure said loop of extension cord against withdrawal from said cavity.
64. The method of claim 63 wherein the steps of inserting said loop of extension cord into said cavity to said capture area is effective to automatically move said retaining member from said second position to said first position.
65. The method of claim 63 further including the steps of moving said retaining member from said second position to said first position to release said loop of extension cord from said capture area, and withdrawing said loop of extension cord from said cavity.
66. The method of claim 65 wherein said retaining member is normally biased into said second position and said retaining member must be held in said first position to release said loop of extension cord.
67. A method of releasably securing a loop of extension cord having male and female connector ends within a cavity formed in a housing of a portable electric power tool having a motor, male connector means electrically connected to the motor, and moveable cord retaining means for automatically securing a loop of extension cord within said cavity upon insertion of said loop of extension cord into said cavity; including the steps of:
correcting the female connector end of the extension cord to said male connector means;
forming a loop in the extension cord adjacent said female connector end; and inserting said loop extension cord into said cavity and thereby causing said cord retaining means to move from release position to a capture position so that said loop is secured by said retaining means.
correcting the female connector end of the extension cord to said male connector means;
forming a loop in the extension cord adjacent said female connector end; and inserting said loop extension cord into said cavity and thereby causing said cord retaining means to move from release position to a capture position so that said loop is secured by said retaining means.
68. The method of claim 67 further including the steps of actuating said cord retaining means into said release position and withdrawing said loop of extension cord from said cavity.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US07/193,028 US4875879A (en) | 1988-05-11 | 1988-05-11 | Cord retainer for a portable electric tool |
| US193,028 | 1988-05-11 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA1329700C true CA1329700C (en) | 1994-05-24 |
Family
ID=22711996
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000599284A Expired - Fee Related CA1329700C (en) | 1988-05-11 | 1989-05-10 | Cord retainer for a portable electric tool |
Country Status (2)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| US (1) | US4875879A (en) |
| CA (1) | CA1329700C (en) |
Families Citing this family (27)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US5318158A (en) * | 1992-04-09 | 1994-06-07 | Mcculloch Corporation | Cord retainer for electric power cord |
| US5398567A (en) * | 1993-04-01 | 1995-03-21 | The Hoover Company | Trigger lever arrangement |
| US5581891A (en) * | 1994-08-12 | 1996-12-10 | Black & Decker Inc. | Hedge trimmer with combination shearing and sawing blade assembly |
| GB9423005D0 (en) * | 1994-11-15 | 1995-01-04 | Black & Decker Inc | Cable retainer for electric power cable |
| US5573422A (en) * | 1995-08-21 | 1996-11-12 | Ryan J. Lawliss | Electrical cord retaining and protection system |
| US5642008A (en) * | 1995-10-20 | 1997-06-24 | Waxing Corporation Of America, Inc. | Power tool motor assembly |
| US6290587B1 (en) | 1995-10-20 | 2001-09-18 | Wilton Tool Company, Llc | Electrically-powered polisher |
| US5595532A (en) * | 1995-10-20 | 1997-01-21 | Waxing Corporation Of America, Inc. | Electrically-powered polisher |
| US5678272A (en) * | 1995-10-20 | 1997-10-21 | Waxing Corporation Of America, Inc. | Power tool having a quick release system for attaching a working element |
| US5792044A (en) * | 1996-03-22 | 1998-08-11 | Danek Medical, Inc. | Devices and methods for percutaneous surgery |
| US5713758A (en) * | 1996-04-15 | 1998-02-03 | Black & Decker Inc. | Cordlock retention |
| US5957721A (en) * | 1997-07-23 | 1999-09-28 | Mcculloch Corporation | Cord retainer |
| US6439088B1 (en) | 2000-04-25 | 2002-08-27 | The Toro Company | Reconfigurable vegetation trimmer and method of use |
| US6443762B1 (en) | 2001-06-04 | 2002-09-03 | Black & Decker Inc. | Power tool cord retainer |
| US6443753B1 (en) * | 2001-06-04 | 2002-09-03 | Black & Decker Inc. | Power tool cord retainer |
| US6640384B2 (en) * | 2001-10-10 | 2003-11-04 | Electrolux Home Products, Inc. | Convertible blower and vacuum |
| US20030120327A1 (en) * | 2001-12-20 | 2003-06-26 | Mark Tobritzhofer | Medical lead adaptor assembly with retainer |
| US7125277B2 (en) * | 2002-03-12 | 2006-10-24 | Credo Technology Corporation | plug retention system |
| US20030173446A1 (en) * | 2002-03-12 | 2003-09-18 | S-B Power Tool Company | Extension cord retention system |
| US7004785B2 (en) * | 2003-07-22 | 2006-02-28 | Wahl Clipper Corporation | Cord wrap for clippers |
| DE102008011461A1 (en) * | 2008-02-27 | 2009-09-10 | Andreas Stihl Ag & Co. Kg | Implement with a strain relief for a connection cable |
| US7997593B2 (en) * | 2008-08-14 | 2011-08-16 | Black & Decker, Inc. | Blower cart |
| USD617603S1 (en) | 2009-10-05 | 2010-06-15 | Hamilton Beach Brands, Inc. | Coffee grinder with integrally stored brush |
| US10709305B2 (en) | 2017-06-12 | 2020-07-14 | Emerson Electric Co. | Vacuum cleaning system including an electrical connection interface |
| DE102018117948A1 (en) * | 2018-07-25 | 2020-01-30 | Alfred Kärcher SE & Co. KG | Electrical device and handle unit |
| US11664624B2 (en) * | 2020-12-11 | 2023-05-30 | Ford Global Technologies, Llc | Electrical connectors with disconnection blocking features |
| CN117120212A (en) * | 2020-12-18 | 2023-11-24 | D·L·亚拉基 | Extension handle system for hand-held power tool |
Family Cites Families (11)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US1719766A (en) * | 1926-09-04 | 1929-07-02 | Hopkins Tull Machinery Co | Cord holder |
| GB651504A (en) * | 1948-11-23 | 1951-04-04 | Electrolux Ab | Improvements in manipulating handles of electrical household apparatus |
| US3593950A (en) * | 1968-10-15 | 1971-07-20 | Toro Mfg Corp | Cord strain relief device |
| US3611265A (en) * | 1969-01-21 | 1971-10-05 | Lloyd L Shurtz | Cord holder |
| US3843224A (en) * | 1972-12-21 | 1974-10-22 | Black & Decker Mfg Co | Detachable cord set for electric device |
| US3883929A (en) * | 1973-09-10 | 1975-05-20 | Thomas & Betts Corp | Cable clamp assembly |
| US4047299A (en) * | 1976-01-30 | 1977-09-13 | Garden Pro, Inc. | Apparatus for trimming vegetation |
| US4167301A (en) * | 1978-08-24 | 1979-09-11 | General Electric Company | Power cord strain relief |
| DE8010197U1 (en) * | 1980-04-15 | 1980-07-10 | Gardena Kress + Kastner Gmbh, 7900 Ulm | HANDLE FOR GARDEN EQUIPMENT |
| FR2539436B1 (en) * | 1983-01-19 | 1986-02-07 | Seb Sa | RETRACTABLE REEL FOR STORING THE POWER CORD OF AN ELECTRIC IRON AND IRON COMPRISING SUCH A REEL |
| US4719379A (en) * | 1987-03-20 | 1988-01-12 | Emerson Electric Co. | Strain relief for electric motor power cord |
-
1988
- 1988-05-11 US US07/193,028 patent/US4875879A/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
-
1989
- 1989-05-10 CA CA000599284A patent/CA1329700C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| US4875879A (en) | 1989-10-24 |
Similar Documents
| Publication | Publication Date | Title |
|---|---|---|
| CA1329700C (en) | Cord retainer for a portable electric tool | |
| US4639978A (en) | Cord lock device | |
| US5778649A (en) | Power-driven hedge trimmer | |
| US5330138A (en) | Cable support for an electrically-operated portable handheld work apparatus | |
| US5988381A (en) | Tool display pack with a security device | |
| US4362228A (en) | Control lever mounting | |
| EP1570958B1 (en) | Extension cord retention and plug retention system | |
| US20020115353A1 (en) | Quick lock power cord | |
| CA1055083A (en) | Two-motion switch for cordless lawnmower | |
| US20030074803A1 (en) | Holder assembly for hand-held device | |
| CA2103527A1 (en) | Quick-release connector | |
| CA2077864A1 (en) | Quick release mechanism for tools such as socket wrenches | |
| US6712637B2 (en) | Power tool cord retainer | |
| KR20000070364A (en) | Impact/no-impact punchdown tool for use with cut/no-cut or wire insertion blade assembly | |
| CA2388726C (en) | Power tool cord retainer | |
| US4673230A (en) | Security device for electrical plug | |
| US5666829A (en) | Plug lock | |
| JP3046883B2 (en) | Quick connection terminal device | |
| JP6225131B2 (en) | Portable work machine | |
| EP0118433B1 (en) | Control lever mounting | |
| JP3583576B2 (en) | Holder for remote control of rechargeable power tools | |
| CN210298609U (en) | Starting device for garden electric tool and mower | |
| EP0505835A2 (en) | Threading apparatus for a lower looper of an overlock sewing machine | |
| CA1174862A (en) | Control lever mounting | |
| CN219679993U (en) | Nail clipper with push lock |
Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| MKLA | Lapsed |