US20030228833A1 - Power tool and method of operating same - Google Patents
Power tool and method of operating same Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20030228833A1 US20030228833A1 US10/336,878 US33687803A US2003228833A1 US 20030228833 A1 US20030228833 A1 US 20030228833A1 US 33687803 A US33687803 A US 33687803A US 2003228833 A1 US2003228833 A1 US 2003228833A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- power tool
- handle
- housing
- tool according
- motor
- 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.)
- Abandoned
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Classifications
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B25—HAND TOOLS; PORTABLE POWER-DRIVEN TOOLS; MANIPULATORS
- B25F—COMBINATION OR MULTI-PURPOSE TOOLS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; DETAILS OR COMPONENTS OF PORTABLE POWER-DRIVEN TOOLS NOT PARTICULARLY RELATED TO THE OPERATIONS PERFORMED AND NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B25F5/00—Details or components of portable power-driven tools not particularly related to the operations performed and not otherwise provided for
- B25F5/006—Vibration damping means
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B24—GRINDING; POLISHING
- B24B—MACHINES, DEVICES, OR PROCESSES FOR GRINDING OR POLISHING; DRESSING OR CONDITIONING OF ABRADING SURFACES; FEEDING OF GRINDING, POLISHING, OR LAPPING AGENTS
- B24B23/00—Portable grinding machines, e.g. hand-guided; Accessories therefor
- B24B23/04—Portable grinding machines, e.g. hand-guided; Accessories therefor with oscillating grinding tools; Accessories therefor
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B25—HAND TOOLS; PORTABLE POWER-DRIVEN TOOLS; MANIPULATORS
- B25F—COMBINATION OR MULTI-PURPOSE TOOLS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; DETAILS OR COMPONENTS OF PORTABLE POWER-DRIVEN TOOLS NOT PARTICULARLY RELATED TO THE OPERATIONS PERFORMED AND NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B25F5/00—Details or components of portable power-driven tools not particularly related to the operations performed and not otherwise provided for
- B25F5/02—Construction of casings, bodies or handles
- B25F5/029—Construction of casings, bodies or handles with storage compartments
Definitions
- This invention relates generally to a power tool and, more particularly, to an electrically-powered polisher capable of rotating a pad to polish a workpiece.
- the tool industry offers a variety of power tools for performing work on various types of workpieces.
- One common shortcoming, however, is that the power tools do not offer handles with enhanced gripping surfaces for an operator to use to grip the tool.
- many power tools, such as polishers are used outdoors in hot climates where operation of the tool often causes the operator to sweat, and possibly even involve operation of the tool in damp environments, such as, for example, near a recently washed vehicle. This often results in the operator having a difficult time in gripping and/or controlling the power tool due to a lack of enhanced gripping surfaces.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a power tool embodying features of the present invention
- FIG. 2 is a front elevational view of the power tool of FIG. 1;
- FIG. 3 is a left side elevational view of the power tool of FIG. 1;
- FIG. 4 is a plan view of the power tool of FIG. 1;
- FIG. 5 is a bottom view of the power tool of FIG. 1;
- FIG. 6 is an exploded view of the power tool of FIG. 1;
- FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the power tool of FIG. 1 taken along line 7 - 7 in FIG. 2;
- FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the power tool of FIG. 1 taken along line 8 - 8 in FIG. 3;
- FIG. 9 is a partial perspective view of an alternate power tool embodying features of the present invention.
- FIG. 10 is a partial exploded view of the power tool of FIG. 9.
- FIGS. 1 - 8 there is illustrated a power tool 20 embodying features of the present invention for working (e.g., waxing, buffing, polishing, etc.) on a workpiece.
- the power tool 20 includes a housing 22 , first and second handles 24 and 26 , respectively, connected to the housing 22 , and a work element, such as a pad 28 , for working on a desired workpiece, such as the body of an automobile or hull of a boat.
- the power tool 20 includes a symmetrical design about a vertical reference plane (not shown) extending centrally from the forward end of the tool 20 a to a rearward end 20 b (see FIGS. 3 and 4). The cross-section illustrated in FIG. 7 is taken along the vertical reference plane.
- the tool 20 has a clamshell design with a first clamshell member 20 c and a second clamshell member 20 d which, when connected to each other, define a parting line 20 e which extends in the vertical reference plane about which the tool 20 is generally symmetrical, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 6.
- the clamshell members 20 c and 20 d are secured together by a number of screws 21 which are recessed into bores defined by second clamshell member 20 d and thread into internally threaded bores or post members 21 a defined by first clamshell member 20 c .
- the clamshell members 20 c and 20 d can be made of any suitably lightweight material and, in a preferred embodiment, are molded plastic parts.
- the housing 22 is generally cylindrical in shape and includes a front portion 22 a , rear portion 22 b , top portion 22 c , bottom portion 22 d (FIG. 7), and first and second side portions 22 e - f , respectively.
- the housing portions 22 a - f define an internal cavity 30 within which at least a portion of motor 32 is disposed (see FIG. 7).
- the first handle 24 extends from the upper rear portion 22 b of housing 22 and the second handle 26 extends from the upper front portion 22 a of housing 22 .
- the bottom portion 22 d of housing 22 is generally flat and the upper portion 22 c forms a slightly convex arcuate surface.
- the edges of the housing 20 are generally arcuate to facilitate a generally smooth transition from one housing portion to another. For example, the edge between rear portion 22 b and bottom portion 22 d is rounded as illustrated in FIG. 7.
- the upper portion 22 c of housing 22 also includes a raised arcuate rim or wall portion 22 g near the rear of the housing which defines a vent or passage to the cavity 30 , such as the elongated slot opening 22 h illustrated in FIG. 1.
- the wall portion 22 g curves along the periphery of the top surface 22 c so that it remains flush with the rear housing portion 22 b (see FIG. 3) and has gusset members 22 i and 22 j extending forward from the ends of the wall portion 22 g .
- the gusset members 22 i and 22 j each have two parallel gusset walls which taper downward to the top surface 22 c of housing 22 as they extend toward the front 20 a of the tool 20 .
- the housing portions 22 a - f define a cavity within which motor 32 is disposed.
- the motor 32 is secured to the housing 22 using a mounting plate 34 and is supported and/or aligned laterally by ribs 22 k which extend from the inner surface of at least one of the housing portions 22 a - g .
- several of the ribs 22 k include an arcuate edge that compliments the body of the motor 32 .
- the mounting plate 34 includes a generally flat and rectangular plate structure 34 a having a circular upstanding wall 34 b , a centrally located hub portion 34 c (FIG. 7) and tabs 34 d and 34 e which extend outward from opposing side portions of the plate 34 a.
- the circular wall 34 b of mounting plate 34 extends upward from the plate structure 34 a and forms an annular wall about a fan (not shown) which is positioned therein and driven by the motor shaft 32 a in order to circulate air through, and cool, the motor 32 .
- the annular wall 34 b includes notches 34 f to assist in the circulation of air through the tool 20 .
- FIGS. 1-10 For example, in the embodiment illustrated in FIGS.
- the motor 32 rests on the upper edge of the circular wall 34 b and rotates the fan located therein in order to draw air through the vent 22 h located in upper housing portion 22 c , down through holes in the top of the motor 32 , out the notches 34 f of the mounting plate 34 , and eventually out of the cavity 30 via passages 22 n located in the lower half of first and second side portions 22 e and 22 f (see FIGS. 1 - 3 ).
- the circulation of air cools the motor 32 during operation, which aids in preventing the overheating of motor 32 .
- the hub portion 34 c of mounting plate 34 extends upward and downward from the center of the plate structure 34 a and defines a bore through which the motor shaft 32 a is disposed and a socket within which bearing 36 is nested. As illustrated in FIG. 8, the motor output shaft 32 a passes through the bearing 36 and bore of the hub portion 34 c .
- the bearing 36 assists the motor in operating more efficiently by aligning and guiding the rotational operation of the output shaft 32 a and reducing the frictional forces encountered thereby.
- a portion of the hub 34 c extending below the plate structure 34 a helps to align the motor 32 with the bottom 22 d of housing 22 and helps mount the plate 34 within cavity 30 .
- the tabs 34 d and 34 e of mounting plate 34 define bores into which elongate screws or bolts (not shown) are thread in order to mount and secure the motor 32 to the mounting plate 34 . More particularly, the threaded bolts are fed through tab structures 32 b and 32 c (see FIGS. 6 - 7 ), which are located adjacent the top of the motor 32 and aligned with the mounting plate tabs 34 d and 34 e , and are thread into the mounting plate tabs 34 d - e .
- the motor tab structures 32 b and 32 c have recessed portions into which the bolt heads are nested
- the mounting plate tabs 34 d and 34 e have recessed portions into which nuts are nested.
- the recesses of the mounting plate tabs 34 d and 34 e will be complimentary in shape to the nuts in order to prevent the nuts from rotating while nested therein to assist in tightening the elongate bolts.
- the motor 32 and mounting plate 34 are secured to the housing 22 by sliding at least a portion of the mounting plate 34 into a slot defined by the inner surface of at least one of the housing portions 22 a - g .
- the corners of plate structure 34 a are inserted into slots 22 m defined by the lower most rib 22 k extending from the inner surfaces of first and second side portions 22 e - f and the inner surface of bottom portion 22 d .
- the bottom portion 22 d further defines a circular opening within which the portion of hub 34 c extending down below the plate structure 34 a is disposed.
- this portion of hub 34 c and the opening in the bottom portion 22 d help align and maintain the motor 32 and mounting plate 34 in their desired location within the cavity 30 of the housing 22 .
- the slot and insert configuration between the housing 22 and the mounting plate 34 help prevent the motor 32 from rotating once in position so that maximum torque may be supplied to a work element, such as pad 28 .
- the plate structure 34 a and bottom portion 22 d may have additional openings aligned with one another for assisting in the circulation of air over the motor 32 .
- an arcuate shield or skirt member 40 Extending downward below the housing 22 is an arcuate shield or skirt member 40 , which forms an annular wall about the exposed end of the motor shaft 32 a and at least a portion of counterweight 38 (see FIG. 8).
- the shield 40 is connected to the lower portion 22 d of housing 22 and, in a preferred embodiment, is made integral therewith.
- the motor 32 is mechanically connected to the pad assembly 28 to drive it in an orbital path below the housing 22 . More particularly, the motor output shaft 32 a extends through the bottom portion 22 d of housing 22 and is threaded into a first threaded bore 38 a defined by the counterweight 38 . As illustrated in FIGS. 6 - 8 , the counterweight 38 is connected to the pad assembly 28 by a bolt, such as left handed bolt 42 , which threads into a second threaded bore 38 b in the counterweight 38 . The second counterweight bore 38 b is parallel to, and located generally adjacent to, the first counterweight bore 38 a . Thus, rotation of the output shaft 32 a results in a corresponding rotation in the counterweight 38 and the pad assembly 28 connected thereto.
- the pad assembly 28 preferably consists of a pad support 44 , a first pad 28 a , a second pad 28 b , and a third pad 28 c .
- the pads 28 a - c are overlaid and connected to one another and to the pad support 44 by an adhesive (not shown) and, preferably, include a closed polyethylene pad, an ether foam pad, and a closed micro-cell polyethylene pad, respectively.
- the preferred pads 28 a - c have a thickness of 1 ⁇ 4′′, 5 ⁇ 8′′ and 1 ⁇ 8′′ respectively. In alternate embodiments, however, various types and sizes of pads may be used. For example, varying combinations of the above mentioned pads may be used in either a two pad configuration or in a single pad configuration, rather than a three pad coil figuration.
- the pad support 44 has a generally planar disc portion 44 a supporting a circular hub portion 44 b extending upward from the center of the disc and an annular wall 44 c extending upward from the disc portion 44 a intermediate the edge of the disc portion 44 a and hub portion 44 b .
- a plurality of gusset members extend along the sides of the hub portion 44 b down to the disc portion 44 a (see FIG. 6).
- the annular wall 44 c is positioned intermediate the outer perimeter of the disc 44 a and the hub portion 44 b and is preferably located about two-thirds of the radial distance from the center of the disc 44 a toward the perimeter of the disc 44 a .
- the counterweight 38 rotates within the annular wall 44 c of the pad support 44 , and the annular wall 44 c remains under cover of the shield 40 .
- the skirt member 40 and the annular wall 44 c of the pad support 44 combine to prevent, or at least hinder, direct access to the counterweight 38 .
- the hub portion 44 b of pad support 44 defines a hollow center region that houses bearings 46 a - b and spacer 48 .
- the bolt 42 extends through the central openings in the bearings 46 a - b and the spacer 48 and is threaded into the second bore 38 b of the counterweight 38 .
- the first pad 28 a , the second pad 28 b and the third pad 28 c also have central openings or passageways through which the bolt 42 passes in order to be threaded into the counterweight 38 .
- the end of bolt 42 includes an enlarged head to secure the pad support 44 , bearings 46 a - b and spacer 48 , to the tool 20 .
- the pad assembly 28 will orbitally rotate about the z-axis of the tool (defined by output shaft 32 a ) when the motor 32 drives the shaft 32 a and the counterweight 38 .
- At least one small opening or notch 44 d may be defined by the annular wall 44 c of the pad support 44 so that a hand tool or other instrument can be inserted into the interior region between the pad support 44 and the skirt member 40 to prevent the counterweight 38 from rotating while the bolt 42 is being unscrewed and removed film the counterweight 38 .
- This enables the pad assembly 28 to be removed from the tool 20 for access to the counterweight 38 and other internal components (e.g., the motor shaft 32 a , bearing 46 a , etc.). Such access may be required to repair or replace parts, including the counterweight 38 and pad assembly 28 or those parts internal thereto.
- the counterweight 38 includes a first horizontal portion 38 c , which defines bores 38 a and 38 b of the counterweight 38 . More particularly, the first horizontal portion 38 c is generally rectangular in shape and cross-section and has bores 38 a - b disposed therein between first and second ends of the structure.
- the first bore 38 a is internally threaded for receiving the motor output shaft 32 a and has a sleeve or collar extending upward from the top surface of the horizontal portion 38 c in order to increase the length of the bore 38 a .
- the second bore 38 b is internally threaded for receiving the bolt 42 connecting the pad assembly 28 to the tool 20 and has a sleeve or collar extending downward from the bottom surface of the horizontal portion 38 c in order to increase the length of the bore 38 b .
- the lengthened bores 38 a and 38 b increase the amount of the shaft 32 a and bolt 42 disposed therein, which subsequently strengthens the mechanical connection made between the counterweight 38 and shaft 32 a and between counterweight 38 and bolt 42 .
- a second horizontal portion 38 e is connected to the first horizontal portion 38 c via a generally vertical interconnecting portion 38 d . More particularly, the interconnecting portion 38 d connects the second horizontal portion 38 e such that it is generally parallel to the first horizontal portion 38 c .
- the connecting portion 38 d and second horizontal portion 38 e form a generally L shaped structure having a central opening 38 f (FIG. 6) that generally divides the connecting portion 38 d and second horizontal portion 38 e into two parallel legs which allows for a desired reduction in counterweight mass.
- a first end member 38 g extends from the second horizontal portion 38 e on the end opposite the interconnecting portion 38 d .
- the first end member 38 g is arcuately shaped about the end of the second horizontal portion 38 e , with the end of the second horizontal portion 38 e being connected to the inner curved surface of the end member 38 g and the end member 38 g having a generally rectangular cross-section at any given point there along.
- the radius of curvature of the end portion 38 g preferably corresponds to that of the annular wall 44 c of pad support 44 so that the end member 38 g can rotate within the annular wall 44 c without interference by the wall 44 c.
- a second end member 38 h is connected to the first horizontal portion 38 c on the side opposite the interconnecting member 38 d .
- the first and second end members 38 g and 38 h are located on opposite sides of the counterweight 38 .
- the second end member 38 h is generally rectangular in shape and is generally centered off of the end of the first horizontal portion 38 c . This configuration allows the counterweight 38 to be made out of less material, but yet supply a sufficient amount of revolutions per minute (RPMs) to orbit the pad assembly 28 as desired.
- RPMs revolutions per minute
- the first handle 24 includes a pair of elongated members 24 a and 24 b which project outward from the rear portion 22 d of the housing 22 near the top thereof. This shape provides an operator with a plurality of locations to facilitate an effective grip to maintain control over the tool 20 . More particularly, the first and second side members 24 a and 24 b connect along the parting line 20 e to form the handle 24 . The side portions 24 a and 24 b are secured together by screws 21 or other fasteners which are inserted into recessed bores located in the right side portion 24 b of handle 24 .
- the first handle 24 has a longitudinal axis that is generally perpendicular to the z-axis and within the vertical reference plane discussed above.
- the handle 24 has a generally oval-shaped cross-section at any given point and a distal end 24 c which is enlarged with respect to the remainder of the handle 24 .
- the upper surface of the handle 24 d is generally flat compared to the remainder of the contour, which, as shown by the lower surface 24 e is generally arcuate to provide an operator with a more comfortable grip and to account for the differing hand sizes of operators.
- the enlarged end 24 c allows the operator to “feel” the end of the handle without the need to visually locate it. This allows the operator to focus more on the workpiece rather than requiring the operator to break visual contact with the workpiece to determine the location of the end of the handle 24 .
- the enlarged end 24 c provides the handle with a structural end stop for an operator to feel.
- the enlarged end 24 c can also assist an operator in drawing the tool 20 backward when working on a workpiece.
- the first and second side portions 24 a - b of handle 24 include a plurality of ribs 24 f which both strengthen the handle 24 and support the recesses and threaded posts into which screws 21 are inserted and thread.
- the handle 24 and the rear portion 22 b of housing 22 define a socket within which actuator 50 is disposed.
- the actuator 50 includes a trigger member 52 , which is generally rectangular in shape and cross-section and has a generally hollow interior.
- the trigger 52 has an inward concave lower surface 52 a which is to be engaged for actuation by at least one of an operator's fingers.
- gudgeons 52 b Located on opposite side walls of the trigger 52 are gudgeons 52 b (FIG. 6) which are inserted into complimentary bores defined by posts 22 p extending inward from the inner surfaces of the clamshell members 20 c and 20 d of tool 20 .
- the trigger 52 is able to pivot about the axis defined by the gudgeons 52 b .
- a pedestal 52 c having a recessed upper surface within which an end of spring 54 is nested.
- the pedestal 52 c further includes a centrally located post 52 d which extends upward from the center region of the recessed upper surface of pedestal 52 c and is used to actuate pushbutton 56 . More particularly, the other end of spring 54 is positioned over the button of pushbutton switch 56 like a sleeve.
- the pushbutton switch is mounted in the first handle 24 above the end of the trigger 52 having post member 52 d , with the spring 54 biasing the trigger 52 (and post 52 d ) out of engagement with the switch 56 .
- switch 56 consists of a pushbutton switch which is a push on-push off type switch, such as pushbutton switch model No. J188B manufactured by Judco Manufacturing Inc. of Harbor City, Calif.
- the switch 56 regulates power supplied to the motor 32 and is movable between an active position, or “on” state, to allow power to the motor 32 and a de-active position, or “off” state, to prohibit power to the motor 32 .
- the switch 56 is actuated between active and de-active positions via the post 52 d of trigger 52 . More particularly, when the trigger 52 is squeezed by the operator, it pivots about the axis defined by the gudgeons 52 b . This drives the post 52 d towards the pushbutton 56 and compresses the spring 54 between the body of the pushbutton 56 and the pedestal 52 c . As a result, the post 52 d is pressed into contact with the pushbutton 56 . Thus, the operator may activate or deactivate the tool 20 by pivoting or squeezing the trigger 52 . Once released, the spring 54 returns the trigger 52 to its biased position out of engagement with the switch 56 .
- the actuator 50 may include a momentary on switch and/or a locking momentary on switch which can be temporarily locked in the “on” position.
- a locking momentary on pushbutton such as pushbutton switch HELI KP-D1 manufactured by Changzhou Create Electric Appliance Co. Ltd. of Changzhou, China, may be used.
- one of the side portions 24 a - b of first handle 24 may define an opening, such as aperture 24 g illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 3- 4 , through a lock member is disposed for selectively locking the momentary on switch into the “on” position.
- the operator may lock the actuator into the “on” position by pivoting the trigger 52 into the “on” position, depressing a locking pushbutton disposed in aperture 24 g to lock the trigger in the “on” position, and releasing the trigger 52 .
- the locking pushbutton prevents the trigger 52 from being fully returned to its biased “off” position, thereby temporarily locking the actuator 50 in the “on” state.
- the tool 20 may then be deactivated by pivoting (or squeezing) the trigger again toward the “on” position until the spring activated lock pushbutton disengages the trigger so that the trigger may be returned to its biased “off” position.
- other actuators and actuator features may be incorporated into the tool 20 as are known in the art.
- the rear portion 24 c of handle 24 includes a power cord 58 for supplying power to the tool 20 (i.e., for supplying power to the apparatus from a power supply external to the power tool).
- the power cord 58 has two conductive and shielded wires 58 a and 58 b and an outer insulator jacket 58 c (e.g., a double insulation wiring configuration).
- the rear handle portion 24 c made up of side portions 24 a and 24 b includes two semi-circular notches 60 located on each side portion 24 a - b which cooperate to form a strain relief 61 for the power cord 58 .
- the preferred strain relief 61 also includes a clamp mechanism, such as block 60 c , which has a curved bottom surface and bores located on opposite ends.
- the power cord 58 rests ill a curved cradle 60 d and the block 60 c is fastened down over the power cord 58 via screws 60 e to clamp the power cord 58 in the cradle 60 d , with the curved surface of the block 60 c engaging and compressing the outer jacket 58 c in order to provide additional strain relief for the power cord 58 .
- One end of the power cord 58 includes an electrical connector, such as male plug member 58 e , which can be connected to various types of power supplies, either directly or via an extension cord (not shown).
- wire 58 a is connected to electronic circuitry located within the tool 20 , such as a terminal of full wave rectifier 62 , which is fastened to the inner surface of clamshell member 20 c via screw 62 a .
- the other wire, wire 58 b is connected to a terminal of the pushbutton switch 56 .
- a second terminal of the pushbutton 56 is electrically connected by a wire to a second terminal on the rectifier 62 , and additional wiring electrically connects third and fourth terminals on the rectifier 62 to first and second terminals on motor 32 in order to complete the electrical circuit between the power supply, rectifier 62 , motor 32 and actuator 50 .
- both wires 58 a - b may be connected to input terminals of the switch and output wires from the switch may be connected to the rectifier 62 . Additional wires from the rectifier would then be electrically connected to the motor 32 in order to complete the electrical circuit between the power supply, rectifier 62 , motor 32 and actuator 50 .
- the tool 20 to be operated with a momentary on pushbutton switch rather than a push on-push off type switch.
- alternate actuators and wiring schemes may be used in order to operate the power tool 20 .
- the second handle 26 has a generally block-shaped configuration which projects outward from the front portion 22 a of the housing 22 near the top thereof in order to provide the operator with a forward handle to facilitate an effective grip to help maintain control over the tool 20 .
- the first and second side portion is 26 a and 26 b (see FIG. 6) connect along the parting line 20 e to form the second handle 26 .
- the side portions 26 a - b are secured together by at least one of the screws 21 connecting the clamshell members 20 c - d , which again are inserted into recessed bores located in the right side portion 26 b of handle 26 and thread into threaded post members extending from the left side portion 26 a of handle 26 .
- the second handle 26 has a longitudinal axis that is generally perpendicular to both the z-axis and the longitudinal axis of the first handle 24 .
- the handle 24 has a generally rectangular cross-section and a distal end portion 26 c which is enlarged with respect to the remainder of the handle 26 .
- the upper surface of the handle 26 d is generally flat or planer (see FIGS.
- the second handle 26 is wider and shorter than the first handle 24 and is most often gripped with an operator's palm and/or fingers wrapped around the front or distal end portion 26 c of the handle 26 rather than around the sides of the handle, as is the case with respect to the rear handle 24 .
- the enlarged end portion 26 c of handle 26 is wider and thicker than the remainder of handle, which provides the operator with more surface area to grip the tool 20 .
- the enlarged end 26 c helps facilitate a stronger grip and control over the tool 20 .
- the enlarged end 26 c can also assist the operator in directing the tool 20 forward and backwards, as well as side-to-side, when working on a workpiece.
- the interior of the first and second side portions 26 a and 26 b of handle 26 include a plurality of ribs 26 f , which both strengthen the handle 26 and support the recesses and threaded posts into which at least one of the screws 21 is thread.
- both the first and second handles 24 and 26 have outer elastomer surfaced grips 64 to facilitate enhanced gripping for control over the tool 20 .
- the elastomer grips 64 are provided on the upper surfaces 24 d and 26 d of handles 24 and 26 to facilitate enhanced gripping control over the power tool 20 .
- the elastomer grip is preferably added by way of an injection overmolding process. More particularly, the handles 24 and 26 are preferably formed by a plastic injection molding process, which is later followed by injection of a grip layer material to form grip 64 .
- a preferred material for the elastomer grip 64 is an elastomer/plastic blend, such as, for example, SANTOPRENE, which is a product of Advanced Elastomer Systems, L.P. of Akron, Ohio.
- the overmolded grip may be formed with a smooth outer surface or with a textured outer surface and provides a non-slip rubber (or rubber-like) gripping surface for the operator's hand to grasp.
- the operator will grip the top surface 24 d of the first handle 24 with his or her palm and wrap his or her thumb off to one side of the handle 24 and fingers off to the other side of the handle 24 .
- the operator will preferably grip the top surface 26 d of the second handle 26 with his or her palm and wrap his or her fingers around the forward end 26 c of the handle 26 , leaving his or her thumb off to the side of the handle 26 .
- additional portions of the handles 24 and 26 may be covered with an elastomer overmolding.
- an overmolded grip portion may be included on the lower surface 24 e of first handle 24 .
- only one of the handles 24 or 26 may include the elastomer grip 64 .
- overmolding portions may be used for the overmolding portions.
- thermal plastic elastomers or elastomer/plastic blends such as rubber, nylon, butyl, EPDM, poly-trans-pentenarmer, natural rubber, butadiene rubber, SBR, ethylene-vinyl acetate rubber, acrylate rubber, chlorinated polyethylene, neoprene and nitrile rubber, may also be used for the overmolded grip 64 .
- HERCUPRENE Another material which may be used for the overmolding is HERCUPRENE, which is manufactured by the J-Von Company of Leominster, Mass.
- the apparatus 20 may be provided with no elastomer overmolding whatsoever.
- the tool 20 may be provided with a simple smooth plastic handle, or a textured plastic handle, created from a plastic injection molding process.
- the overmolding may be replaced with a textured surface, such as Rawal #MT-11605, a mold texturization process provided by Mold-Tech/Rawal of Carol Stream, Ill.
- other mold texturization processes may be used to create a variety of textured surfaces.
- FIGS. 9 - 10 there is illustrated an alternate embodiment of tool 20 embodying features in accordance with the present invention.
- the tool 20 includes an accessory 66 , which can be stored on the tool 20 and used in conjunction therewith.
- an accessory 66 can be stored on the tool 20 and used in conjunction therewith.
- FIGS. 9 - 10 features of alternate embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 9 - 10 that correspond to features already discussed with respect to the embodiments of FIGS. 1 - 8 are identified using the same reference numeral in combination with an apostrophe (′) merely to distinguish one embodiment from the other, but otherwise such features are similar.
- the tool in FIGS. 9 - 10 includes a recess, such as elongated slot 68 defined by handle 24 ′, for receiving and maintaining an accessory, such as a brush like tool 66 illustrated therein.
- the slot 68 is preferably rectangular in shape and is deep enough to allow at least a majority of the brush 66 to be inserted therein. In the embodiment illustrated, the slot 68 is deep enough to allow the brush 66 to be fully inserted therein so that the top of the brush 66 is flush with, or recessed below, the upper handle surface 24 d ′ of tool 20 ′.
- the slot 68 may also include recessed groove portions 68 a and 68 b , which provide access to a portion of the brush 66 so that the operator may more easily remove the brush 66 from slot 68 .
- the brush 66 is preferably of a shape that corresponds in a complimentary fashion to the slot 68 and includes a grippable feature, such as a groove 66 a along its upper surface to further assist the operator in removing the brush 66 from slot 68 . Extending out from the lower surface of the brush 66 are bristles 66 b which may be used to sweep up or away residual particles of the workpiece or materials used on the workpiece, such as dry wax.
- the brush 66 may also be provided with a releasable locking mechanism, such as resilient shoulder portions 66 c and 66 d , which may secure the brush 66 into slot 68 by filling the space created below corresponding ridge members 68 c and 68 d located in the slot 68 .
- a releasable locking mechanism such as resilient shoulder portions 66 c and 66 d , which may secure the brush 66 into slot 68 by filling the space created below corresponding ridge members 68 c and 68 d located in the slot 68 .
- the accessory may be moved between a locked location on the tool 20 ′ (see FIG. 9) and an unlocked position remote from the tool 20 ′ (see FIG. 10) so that the accessory may be used in conjunction therewith.
- an accessory item may be located in the second handle 26 ′ instead of, or in addition to, being located in the first handle 24 ′.
Abstract
There is provided with a power tool a housing having a motor mounted therein for driving a work element mounted below the bottom of the housing for working on a workpiece. The power tool has first and second handles extending from opposite sides thereof, with at least one handle having either or both an enlarged portion and an enhanced gripping portion to facilitate control over the tool. The gripping portion may have an enhanced texture surface, such as an elastomer surface, for an operator to grip the tool. In another form, the power tool may include a switch movable between a first position wherein the power tool is in active state and a second position wherein the power tool is in a de-active state. A lock may be connected to the power tool and movable between a release position wherein the switch is freely movable between its first and second positions and a lock position wherein the switch is locked in the second position so that the power tool can remain in the active state without assistance from an operator. The power tool may also include a recess for retaining an accessory to be used in connection therewith.
Description
- This application is a continuation-in-part of pending application No. 29/162,046, filed Jun. 7, 2002, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
- This invention relates generally to a power tool and, more particularly, to an electrically-powered polisher capable of rotating a pad to polish a workpiece.
- The tool industry offers a variety of power tools for performing work on various types of workpieces. One common shortcoming, however, is that the power tools do not offer handles with enhanced gripping surfaces for an operator to use to grip the tool. For example, many power tools, such as polishers, are used outdoors in hot climates where operation of the tool often causes the operator to sweat, and possibly even involve operation of the tool in damp environments, such as, for example, near a recently washed vehicle. This often results in the operator having a difficult time in gripping and/or controlling the power tool due to a lack of enhanced gripping surfaces.
- In addition, current power tool configurations may force the operator to continually hold a trigger in the “on” position in order to actuate the power tool. This forces the operator to expend more energy while operating the tool and can result in making the operator sweat more, thereby, complicating the already difficult task of maintaining a firm grip on the power tool.
- Furthermore, the use of accessories in conjunction with the operation of the power tool may also be necessary. For example, power tools tend to leave residual particles from the workpiece or from substances used on the workpiece that could be picked up at the time of operation. It would be advantageous if the accessories were readily available or proximate to the power tool itself. This would promote maintaining a clean and obstacle free work environment.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a power tool embodying features of the present invention;
- FIG. 2 is a front elevational view of the power tool of FIG. 1;
- FIG. 3 is a left side elevational view of the power tool of FIG. 1;
- FIG. 4 is a plan view of the power tool of FIG. 1;
- FIG. 5 is a bottom view of the power tool of FIG. 1;
- FIG. 6 is an exploded view of the power tool of FIG. 1;
- FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the power tool of FIG. 1 taken along line7-7 in FIG. 2;
- FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the power tool of FIG. 1 taken along line8-8 in FIG. 3;
- FIG. 9 is a partial perspective view of an alternate power tool embodying features of the present invention; and
- FIG. 10 is a partial exploded view of the power tool of FIG. 9.
- In FIGS.1-8, there is illustrated a
power tool 20 embodying features of the present invention for working (e.g., waxing, buffing, polishing, etc.) on a workpiece. Thepower tool 20 includes ahousing 22, first andsecond handles housing 22, and a work element, such as apad 28, for working on a desired workpiece, such as the body of an automobile or hull of a boat. Thepower tool 20 includes a symmetrical design about a vertical reference plane (not shown) extending centrally from the forward end of thetool 20 a to a rearward end 20 b (see FIGS. 3 and 4). The cross-section illustrated in FIG. 7 is taken along the vertical reference plane. - In a preferred embodiment, the
tool 20 has a clamshell design with a first clamshell member 20 c and asecond clamshell member 20 d which, when connected to each other, define aparting line 20 e which extends in the vertical reference plane about which thetool 20 is generally symmetrical, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 6. As further illustrated in FIG. 6, theclamshell members 20 c and 20 d are secured together by a number ofscrews 21 which are recessed into bores defined bysecond clamshell member 20 d and thread into internally threaded bores or postmembers 21 a defined by first clamshell member 20 c. Theclamshell members 20 c and 20 d can be made of any suitably lightweight material and, in a preferred embodiment, are molded plastic parts. - As illustrated in FIGS.1-4, the
housing 22 is generally cylindrical in shape and includes afront portion 22 a, rear portion 22 b,top portion 22 c,bottom portion 22 d (FIG. 7), and first andsecond side portions 22 e-f, respectively. Collectively thehousing portions 22 a-f define aninternal cavity 30 within which at least a portion ofmotor 32 is disposed (see FIG. 7). Thefirst handle 24 extends from the upper rear portion 22 b ofhousing 22 and thesecond handle 26 extends from theupper front portion 22 a ofhousing 22. In addition, thebottom portion 22 d ofhousing 22 is generally flat and theupper portion 22 c forms a slightly convex arcuate surface. Furthermore, the edges of thehousing 20 are generally arcuate to facilitate a generally smooth transition from one housing portion to another. For example, the edge between rear portion 22 b andbottom portion 22 d is rounded as illustrated in FIG. 7. - The
upper portion 22 c ofhousing 22 also includes a raised arcuate rim or wall portion 22 g near the rear of the housing which defines a vent or passage to thecavity 30, such as the elongated slot opening 22 h illustrated in FIG. 1. The wall portion 22 g curves along the periphery of thetop surface 22 c so that it remains flush with the rear housing portion 22 b (see FIG. 3) and has gussetmembers gusset members top surface 22 c ofhousing 22 as they extend toward thefront 20 a of thetool 20. - As mentioned above, and illustrated in FIGS. 6, 7 and8, the
housing portions 22 a-f define a cavity within whichmotor 32 is disposed. Themotor 32 is secured to thehousing 22 using amounting plate 34 and is supported and/or aligned laterally byribs 22 k which extend from the inner surface of at least one of thehousing portions 22 a-g. As illustrated, several of theribs 22 k include an arcuate edge that compliments the body of themotor 32. Themounting plate 34 includes a generally flat andrectangular plate structure 34 a having a circular upstanding wall 34 b, a centrally located hub portion 34 c (FIG. 7) and tabs 34 d and 34 e which extend outward from opposing side portions of theplate 34 a. - The circular wall34 b of
mounting plate 34 extends upward from theplate structure 34 a and forms an annular wall about a fan (not shown) which is positioned therein and driven by themotor shaft 32 a in order to circulate air through, and cool, themotor 32. The annular wall 34 b includesnotches 34 f to assist in the circulation of air through thetool 20. For example, in the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7, themotor 32 rests on the upper edge of the circular wall 34 b and rotates the fan located therein in order to draw air through thevent 22 h located inupper housing portion 22 c, down through holes in the top of themotor 32, out thenotches 34 f of themounting plate 34, and eventually out of thecavity 30 viapassages 22 n located in the lower half of first andsecond side portions 22 e and 22 f (see FIGS. 1-3). The circulation of air cools themotor 32 during operation, which aids in preventing the overheating ofmotor 32. - The hub portion34 c of
mounting plate 34 extends upward and downward from the center of theplate structure 34 a and defines a bore through which themotor shaft 32 a is disposed and a socket within which bearing 36 is nested. As illustrated in FIG. 8, themotor output shaft 32 a passes through thebearing 36 and bore of the hub portion 34 c. The bearing 36 assists the motor in operating more efficiently by aligning and guiding the rotational operation of theoutput shaft 32 a and reducing the frictional forces encountered thereby. As will be discussed in further detail below, a portion of the hub 34 c extending below theplate structure 34 a helps to align themotor 32 with thebottom 22 d ofhousing 22 and helps mount theplate 34 withincavity 30. - The tabs34 d and 34 e of
mounting plate 34 define bores into which elongate screws or bolts (not shown) are thread in order to mount and secure themotor 32 to themounting plate 34. More particularly, the threaded bolts are fed through tab structures 32 b and 32 c (see FIGS. 6-7), which are located adjacent the top of themotor 32 and aligned with the mounting plate tabs 34 d and 34 e, and are thread into the mounting plate tabs 34 d-e. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 7, the motor tab structures 32 b and 32 c have recessed portions into which the bolt heads are nested, and the mounting plate tabs 34 d and 34 e have recessed portions into which nuts are nested. Preferably, the recesses of the mounting plate tabs 34 d and 34 e will be complimentary in shape to the nuts in order to prevent the nuts from rotating while nested therein to assist in tightening the elongate bolts. - The
motor 32 andmounting plate 34 are secured to thehousing 22 by sliding at least a portion of themounting plate 34 into a slot defined by the inner surface of at least one of thehousing portions 22 a-g. As illustrated in FIG. 6, and in a preferred embodiment, the corners ofplate structure 34 a are inserted intoslots 22 m defined by the lowermost rib 22 k extending from the inner surfaces of first andsecond side portions 22 e-f and the inner surface ofbottom portion 22 d. Thebottom portion 22 d further defines a circular opening within which the portion of hub 34 c extending down below theplate structure 34 a is disposed. Thus, this portion of hub 34 c and the opening in thebottom portion 22 d help align and maintain themotor 32 and mountingplate 34 in their desired location within thecavity 30 of thehousing 22. In addition, the slot and insert configuration between thehousing 22 and themounting plate 34 help prevent themotor 32 from rotating once in position so that maximum torque may be supplied to a work element, such aspad 28. In alternate embodiments, theplate structure 34 a andbottom portion 22 d may have additional openings aligned with one another for assisting in the circulation of air over themotor 32. - Extending downward below the
housing 22 is an arcuate shield orskirt member 40, which forms an annular wall about the exposed end of themotor shaft 32 a and at least a portion of counterweight 38 (see FIG. 8). Theshield 40 is connected to thelower portion 22 d ofhousing 22 and, in a preferred embodiment, is made integral therewith. - The
motor 32 is mechanically connected to thepad assembly 28 to drive it in an orbital path below thehousing 22. More particularly, themotor output shaft 32 a extends through thebottom portion 22 d ofhousing 22 and is threaded into a first threaded bore 38 a defined by thecounterweight 38. As illustrated in FIGS. 6-8, thecounterweight 38 is connected to thepad assembly 28 by a bolt, such as lefthanded bolt 42, which threads into a second threaded bore 38 b in thecounterweight 38. The second counterweight bore 38 b is parallel to, and located generally adjacent to, the first counterweight bore 38 a. Thus, rotation of theoutput shaft 32 a results in a corresponding rotation in thecounterweight 38 and thepad assembly 28 connected thereto. - As further illustrated in FIGS.6-8, the
pad assembly 28 preferably consists of apad support 44, afirst pad 28 a, asecond pad 28 b, and athird pad 28 c. Thepads 28 a-c are overlaid and connected to one another and to thepad support 44 by an adhesive (not shown) and, preferably, include a closed polyethylene pad, an ether foam pad, and a closed micro-cell polyethylene pad, respectively. Thepreferred pads 28 a-c have a thickness of ¼″, ⅝″ and ⅛″ respectively. In alternate embodiments, however, various types and sizes of pads may be used. For example, varying combinations of the above mentioned pads may be used in either a two pad configuration or in a single pad configuration, rather than a three pad coil figuration. - The
pad support 44 has a generallyplanar disc portion 44 a supporting a circular hub portion 44 b extending upward from the center of the disc and anannular wall 44 c extending upward from thedisc portion 44 a intermediate the edge of thedisc portion 44 a and hub portion 44 b. A plurality of gusset members extend along the sides of the hub portion 44 b down to thedisc portion 44 a (see FIG. 6). As mentioned above, theannular wall 44 c is positioned intermediate the outer perimeter of thedisc 44 a and the hub portion 44 b and is preferably located about two-thirds of the radial distance from the center of thedisc 44 a toward the perimeter of thedisc 44 a. Thus, thecounterweight 38 rotates within theannular wall 44 c of thepad support 44, and theannular wall 44 c remains under cover of theshield 40. With such a configuration, theskirt member 40 and theannular wall 44 c of thepad support 44 combine to prevent, or at least hinder, direct access to thecounterweight 38. - The hub portion44 b of
pad support 44 defines a hollow center region that housesbearings 46 a-b andspacer 48. Thebolt 42 extends through the central openings in thebearings 46 a-b and thespacer 48 and is threaded into the second bore 38 b of thecounterweight 38. Thefirst pad 28 a, thesecond pad 28 b and thethird pad 28 c also have central openings or passageways through which thebolt 42 passes in order to be threaded into thecounterweight 38. The end ofbolt 42 includes an enlarged head to secure thepad support 44,bearings 46 a-b andspacer 48, to thetool 20. During operation, thepad assembly 28 will orbitally rotate about the z-axis of the tool (defined byoutput shaft 32 a) when themotor 32 drives theshaft 32 a and thecounterweight 38. - For maintenance purposes, at least one small opening or notch44 d may be defined by the
annular wall 44 c of thepad support 44 so that a hand tool or other instrument can be inserted into the interior region between thepad support 44 and theskirt member 40 to prevent thecounterweight 38 from rotating while thebolt 42 is being unscrewed and removed film thecounterweight 38. This enables thepad assembly 28 to be removed from thetool 20 for access to thecounterweight 38 and other internal components (e.g., themotor shaft 32 a, bearing 46 a, etc.). Such access may be required to repair or replace parts, including thecounterweight 38 andpad assembly 28 or those parts internal thereto. - The
counterweight 38 includes a first horizontal portion 38 c, which defines bores 38 a and 38 b of thecounterweight 38. More particularly, the first horizontal portion 38 c is generally rectangular in shape and cross-section and hasbores 38 a-b disposed therein between first and second ends of the structure. The first bore 38 a is internally threaded for receiving themotor output shaft 32 a and has a sleeve or collar extending upward from the top surface of the horizontal portion 38 c in order to increase the length of thebore 38 a. The second bore 38 b is internally threaded for receiving thebolt 42 connecting thepad assembly 28 to thetool 20 and has a sleeve or collar extending downward from the bottom surface of the horizontal portion 38 c in order to increase the length of the bore 38 b. The lengthened bores 38 a and 38 b increase the amount of theshaft 32 a andbolt 42 disposed therein, which subsequently strengthens the mechanical connection made between thecounterweight 38 andshaft 32 a and betweencounterweight 38 andbolt 42. - A second
horizontal portion 38 e is connected to the first horizontal portion 38 c via a generally vertical interconnecting portion 38 d. More particularly, the interconnecting portion 38 d connects the secondhorizontal portion 38 e such that it is generally parallel to the first horizontal portion 38 c. Collectively, the connecting portion 38 d and secondhorizontal portion 38 e form a generally L shaped structure having a central opening 38 f (FIG. 6) that generally divides the connecting portion 38 d and secondhorizontal portion 38 e into two parallel legs which allows for a desired reduction in counterweight mass. - A first end member38 g extends from the second
horizontal portion 38 e on the end opposite the interconnecting portion 38 d. The first end member 38 g is arcuately shaped about the end of the secondhorizontal portion 38 e, with the end of the secondhorizontal portion 38 e being connected to the inner curved surface of the end member 38 g and the end member 38 g having a generally rectangular cross-section at any given point there along. The radius of curvature of the end portion 38 g preferably corresponds to that of theannular wall 44 c ofpad support 44 so that the end member 38 g can rotate within theannular wall 44 c without interference by thewall 44 c. - A
second end member 38 h is connected to the first horizontal portion 38 c on the side opposite the interconnecting member 38 d. Thus, the first andsecond end members 38 g and 38 h are located on opposite sides of thecounterweight 38. Thesecond end member 38 h is generally rectangular in shape and is generally centered off of the end of the first horizontal portion 38 c. This configuration allows thecounterweight 38 to be made out of less material, but yet supply a sufficient amount of revolutions per minute (RPMs) to orbit thepad assembly 28 as desired. - As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 3-6, the
first handle 24 includes a pair ofelongated members 24 a and 24 b which project outward from therear portion 22 d of thehousing 22 near the top thereof. This shape provides an operator with a plurality of locations to facilitate an effective grip to maintain control over thetool 20. More particularly, the first andsecond side members 24 a and 24 b connect along theparting line 20 e to form thehandle 24. Theside portions 24 a and 24 b are secured together byscrews 21 or other fasteners which are inserted into recessed bores located in the right side portion 24 b ofhandle 24. Thefirst handle 24 has a longitudinal axis that is generally perpendicular to the z-axis and within the vertical reference plane discussed above. In a preferred embodiment, thehandle 24 has a generally oval-shaped cross-section at any given point and adistal end 24 c which is enlarged with respect to the remainder of thehandle 24. In addition, the upper surface of the handle 24 d is generally flat compared to the remainder of the contour, which, as shown by thelower surface 24 e is generally arcuate to provide an operator with a more comfortable grip and to account for the differing hand sizes of operators. - The
enlarged end 24 c allows the operator to “feel” the end of the handle without the need to visually locate it. This allows the operator to focus more on the workpiece rather than requiring the operator to break visual contact with the workpiece to determine the location of the end of thehandle 24. For example, theenlarged end 24 c provides the handle with a structural end stop for an operator to feel. Furthermore, theenlarged end 24 c can also assist an operator in drawing thetool 20 backward when working on a workpiece. - Internally, the first and
second side portions 24 a-b ofhandle 24 include a plurality of ribs 24 f which both strengthen thehandle 24 and support the recesses and threaded posts into which screws 21 are inserted and thread. Furthermore, thehandle 24 and the rear portion 22 b ofhousing 22 define a socket within which actuator 50 is disposed. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7, theactuator 50 includes a trigger member 52, which is generally rectangular in shape and cross-section and has a generally hollow interior. - The trigger52 has an inward concave
lower surface 52 a which is to be engaged for actuation by at least one of an operator's fingers. Located on opposite side walls of the trigger 52 are gudgeons 52 b (FIG. 6) which are inserted into complimentary bores defined by posts 22 p extending inward from the inner surfaces of theclamshell members 20 c and 20 d oftool 20. Thus, the trigger 52 is able to pivot about the axis defined by the gudgeons 52 b. Furthermore, located within the trigger 52 is a pedestal 52 c having a recessed upper surface within which an end ofspring 54 is nested. The pedestal 52 c further includes a centrally located post 52 d which extends upward from the center region of the recessed upper surface of pedestal 52 c and is used to actuatepushbutton 56. More particularly, the other end ofspring 54 is positioned over the button ofpushbutton switch 56 like a sleeve. The pushbutton switch is mounted in thefirst handle 24 above the end of the trigger 52 having post member 52 d, with thespring 54 biasing the trigger 52 (and post 52 d) out of engagement with theswitch 56. In the embodiment illustrated,switch 56 consists of a pushbutton switch which is a push on-push off type switch, such as pushbutton switch model No. J188B manufactured by Judco Manufacturing Inc. of Harbor City, Calif. Theswitch 56 regulates power supplied to themotor 32 and is movable between an active position, or “on” state, to allow power to themotor 32 and a de-active position, or “off” state, to prohibit power to themotor 32. - The
switch 56 is actuated between active and de-active positions via the post 52 d of trigger 52. More particularly, when the trigger 52 is squeezed by the operator, it pivots about the axis defined by the gudgeons 52 b. This drives the post 52 d towards thepushbutton 56 and compresses thespring 54 between the body of thepushbutton 56 and the pedestal 52 c. As a result, the post 52 d is pressed into contact with thepushbutton 56. Thus, the operator may activate or deactivate thetool 20 by pivoting or squeezing the trigger 52. Once released, thespring 54 returns the trigger 52 to its biased position out of engagement with theswitch 56. - In alternate embodiments, however, other types of
actuators 50, with alternate features, may be used. For example, theactuator 50 may include a momentary on switch and/or a locking momentary on switch which can be temporarily locked in the “on” position. In one embodiment, a locking momentary on pushbutton, such as pushbutton switch HELI KP-D1 manufactured by Changzhou Create Electric Appliance Co. Ltd. of Changzhou, China, may be used. To accommodate such an actuator, one of theside portions 24 a-b offirst handle 24 may define an opening, such as aperture 24 g illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 3-4, through a lock member is disposed for selectively locking the momentary on switch into the “on” position. In a preferred embodiment, the operator may lock the actuator into the “on” position by pivoting the trigger 52 into the “on” position, depressing a locking pushbutton disposed in aperture 24 g to lock the trigger in the “on” position, and releasing the trigger 52. The locking pushbutton prevents the trigger 52 from being fully returned to its biased “off” position, thereby temporarily locking theactuator 50 in the “on” state. Thetool 20 may then be deactivated by pivoting (or squeezing) the trigger again toward the “on” position until the spring activated lock pushbutton disengages the trigger so that the trigger may be returned to its biased “off” position. In yet other embodiments, other actuators and actuator features may be incorporated into thetool 20 as are known in the art. - As illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7, the
rear portion 24 c ofhandle 24 includes apower cord 58 for supplying power to the tool 20 (i.e., for supplying power to the apparatus from a power supply external to the power tool). Preferably, thepower cord 58 has two conductive and shieldedwires 58 a and 58 b and anouter insulator jacket 58 c (e.g., a double insulation wiring configuration). Therear handle portion 24 c made up ofside portions 24 a and 24 b includes twosemi-circular notches 60 located on eachside portion 24 a-b which cooperate to form astrain relief 61 for thepower cord 58. More particularly, thenotches 60 form a rounded collar about aflange portion 58 d of theinsulator jacket 58 c (see FIG. 7). This helps to prevent thepower cord 58 from being separated from thehandle 24 andpower tool 20. Thepreferred strain relief 61 also includes a clamp mechanism, such as block 60 c, which has a curved bottom surface and bores located on opposite ends. Thepower cord 58 rests ill acurved cradle 60 d and the block 60 c is fastened down over thepower cord 58 viascrews 60 e to clamp thepower cord 58 in thecradle 60 d, with the curved surface of the block 60 c engaging and compressing theouter jacket 58 c in order to provide additional strain relief for thepower cord 58. - One end of the
power cord 58 includes an electrical connector, such asmale plug member 58 e, which can be connected to various types of power supplies, either directly or via an extension cord (not shown). On the other end of thepower cord 58,wire 58 a is connected to electronic circuitry located within thetool 20, such as a terminal offull wave rectifier 62, which is fastened to the inner surface of clamshell member 20 c via screw 62 a. The other wire, wire 58 b, is connected to a terminal of thepushbutton switch 56. A second terminal of thepushbutton 56 is electrically connected by a wire to a second terminal on therectifier 62, and additional wiring electrically connects third and fourth terminals on therectifier 62 to first and second terminals onmotor 32 in order to complete the electrical circuit between the power supply,rectifier 62,motor 32 andactuator 50. Thus, when thetool 20 is connected to a power supply andactuator 50 is placed into the “on” position, power will be supplied to themotor 32 in order to drive thework element 28 connected to thetool 20. When theactuator 50 is placed into the “off” position, no power will be supplied to themotor 32, and theapparatus 20 will remain in an inoperative or de-active state. - In the alternate embodiment discussed above using the HELI KP-D1 switch, both
wires 58 a-b may be connected to input terminals of the switch and output wires from the switch may be connected to therectifier 62. Additional wires from the rectifier would then be electrically connected to themotor 32 in order to complete the electrical circuit between the power supply,rectifier 62,motor 32 andactuator 50. Thus allowing thetool 20 to be operated with a momentary on pushbutton switch rather than a push on-push off type switch. As mentioned above, it should be understood that alternate actuators and wiring schemes may be used in order to operate thepower tool 20. - As illustrated in FIGS.1-7, the
second handle 26 has a generally block-shaped configuration which projects outward from thefront portion 22 a of thehousing 22 near the top thereof in order to provide the operator with a forward handle to facilitate an effective grip to help maintain control over thetool 20. More particularly, the first and second side portion is 26 a and 26 b (see FIG. 6) connect along theparting line 20 e to form thesecond handle 26. Theside portions 26 a-b are secured together by at least one of thescrews 21 connecting the clamshell members 20 c-d, which again are inserted into recessed bores located in the right side portion 26 b ofhandle 26 and thread into threaded post members extending from theleft side portion 26 a ofhandle 26. Thesecond handle 26 has a longitudinal axis that is generally perpendicular to both the z-axis and the longitudinal axis of thefirst handle 24. In a preferred embodiment, thehandle 24 has a generally rectangular cross-section and a distal end portion 26 c which is enlarged with respect to the remainder of thehandle 26. In addition, the upper surface of the handle 26 d is generally flat or planer (see FIGS. 3 and 7) while thelower surface 26 e is convexly curved to provide an operator with a more comfortable grip. Thesecond handle 26 is wider and shorter than thefirst handle 24 and is most often gripped with an operator's palm and/or fingers wrapped around the front or distal end portion 26 c of thehandle 26 rather than around the sides of the handle, as is the case with respect to therear handle 24. - In addition, the enlarged end portion26 c of
handle 26 is wider and thicker than the remainder of handle, which provides the operator with more surface area to grip thetool 20. Thus, the enlarged end 26 c helps facilitate a stronger grip and control over thetool 20. Furthermore, the enlarged end 26 c can also assist the operator in directing thetool 20 forward and backwards, as well as side-to-side, when working on a workpiece. Like thefirst handle 24, the interior of the first andsecond side portions 26 a and 26 b ofhandle 26 include a plurality ofribs 26 f, which both strengthen thehandle 26 and support the recesses and threaded posts into which at least one of thescrews 21 is thread. - As illustrated in FIGS.1-6, both the first and
second handles grips 64 to facilitate enhanced gripping for control over thetool 20. In a preferred embodiment, the elastomer grips 64 are provided on the upper surfaces 24 d and 26 d ofhandles power tool 20. The elastomer grip is preferably added by way of an injection overmolding process. More particularly, thehandles grip 64. A preferred material for theelastomer grip 64 is an elastomer/plastic blend, such as, for example, SANTOPRENE, which is a product of Advanced Elastomer Systems, L.P. of Akron, Ohio. The overmolded grip may be formed with a smooth outer surface or with a textured outer surface and provides a non-slip rubber (or rubber-like) gripping surface for the operator's hand to grasp. Preferably, the operator will grip the top surface 24 d of thefirst handle 24 with his or her palm and wrap his or her thumb off to one side of thehandle 24 and fingers off to the other side of thehandle 24. In contrast, the operator will preferably grip the top surface 26 d of thesecond handle 26 with his or her palm and wrap his or her fingers around the forward end 26 c of thehandle 26, leaving his or her thumb off to the side of thehandle 26. In alternate embodiments, additional portions of thehandles 24 and 26 (or the entire surface of the handles) may be covered with an elastomer overmolding. For example, an overmolded grip portion may be included on thelower surface 24 e offirst handle 24. Furthermore, in yet other embodiments, only one of thehandles elastomer grip 64. - It should be understood that other materials may be used for the overmolding portions. For example, other thermal plastic elastomers or elastomer/plastic blends, such as rubber, nylon, butyl, EPDM, poly-trans-pentenarmer, natural rubber, butadiene rubber, SBR, ethylene-vinyl acetate rubber, acrylate rubber, chlorinated polyethylene, neoprene and nitrile rubber, may also be used for the
overmolded grip 64. Another material which may be used for the overmolding is HERCUPRENE, which is manufactured by the J-Von Company of Leominster, Mass. - It should also be understood that alternate embodiments of the
apparatus 20 may be provided with no elastomer overmolding whatsoever. For example, thetool 20 may be provided with a simple smooth plastic handle, or a textured plastic handle, created from a plastic injection molding process. More particularly, the overmolding may be replaced with a textured surface, such as Rawal #MT-11605, a mold texturization process provided by Mold-Tech/Rawal of Carol Stream, Ill. Similarly, other mold texturization processes may be used to create a variety of textured surfaces. - Turning now to FIGS.9-10, there is illustrated an alternate embodiment of
tool 20 embodying features in accordance with the present invention. In this embodiment, thetool 20 includes anaccessory 66, which can be stored on thetool 20 and used in conjunction therewith. For convenience, features of alternate embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 9-10 that correspond to features already discussed with respect to the embodiments of FIGS. 1-8 are identified using the same reference numeral in combination with an apostrophe (′) merely to distinguish one embodiment from the other, but otherwise such features are similar. - More particularly, the tool in FIGS.9-10, hereinafter 20′, includes a recess, such as
elongated slot 68 defined byhandle 24′, for receiving and maintaining an accessory, such as a brush liketool 66 illustrated therein. Theslot 68 is preferably rectangular in shape and is deep enough to allow at least a majority of thebrush 66 to be inserted therein. In the embodiment illustrated, theslot 68 is deep enough to allow thebrush 66 to be fully inserted therein so that the top of thebrush 66 is flush with, or recessed below, the upper handle surface 24 d′ oftool 20′. Theslot 68 may also include recessed groove portions 68 a and 68 b, which provide access to a portion of thebrush 66 so that the operator may more easily remove thebrush 66 fromslot 68. Thebrush 66 is preferably of a shape that corresponds in a complimentary fashion to theslot 68 and includes a grippable feature, such as agroove 66 a along its upper surface to further assist the operator in removing thebrush 66 fromslot 68. Extending out from the lower surface of thebrush 66 are bristles 66 b which may be used to sweep up or away residual particles of the workpiece or materials used on the workpiece, such as dry wax. Thebrush 66 may also be provided with a releasable locking mechanism, such as resilient shoulder portions 66 c and 66 d, which may secure thebrush 66 intoslot 68 by filling the space created below corresponding ridge members 68 c and 68 d located in theslot 68. With such a configuration, the accessory may be moved between a locked location on thetool 20′ (see FIG. 9) and an unlocked position remote from thetool 20′ (see FIG. 10) so that the accessory may be used in conjunction therewith. In alternate embodiments, an accessory item, may be located in thesecond handle 26′ instead of, or in addition to, being located in thefirst handle 24′. - Although certain example methods and apparatus have been described herein, the scope of coverage of this patent is not limited thereto. On the contrary, this patent covers all methods, apparatus, and articles of manufacture fairly falling within the scope of the appended claims either literally or under the doctrine of equivalents.
Claims (17)
1. A power tool for working on a workpiece comprising:
a housing having front, rear and first and second side portions and top and bottom portions;
a motor mounted in the housing;
a work element for working on a workpiece being mounted below the bottom of the housing and being driven by the motor;
a first handle being connected to the housing, extending from the rear portion of the housing and having a first gripping portion;
a second handle being connected to the housing, extending from the front portion of the housing and have a second gripping portion; and
one or both of the first and second gripping portions having an enhanced texture surface for an operator to grip the tool.
2. A power tool according to claim 1 wherein at least one of the first and second handles includes an enlarged portion to facilitate enhanced gripping.
3. A power tool according to claim 1 wherein the enhanced textured surface is an elastomer surface.
4. A power tool according to claim 3 herein the elastomer surface is an elastomer injected overmolding.
5. A power tool according to claim 3 wherein the first handle includes an upper and lower surface, the lower surface being contoured to enhance gripping by an operator's hand.
6. A power tool according to claim 1 wherein the first and second handle have an upper and lower surface, the enhanced textured surface is located on the upper surface of at least one of the first and second handles.
7. A power tool according to claim 5 wherein the enhanced textured surface is an elastomer surface.
8. A power tool according to claim 6 wherein the elastomer surface is an elastomer injected overmolding.
9. A power tool according to claim 1 further comprising:
a switch positioned adjacent the first handle and electrically connected to the motor, wherein the switch is movable between a first position wherein the power tool is in active state and a second position wherein the power tool is in a de-active state; and
a lock connected to the power tool and movable between a release position wherein the switch is freely movable between its first and second positions and a lock position wherein the switch is locked in the second position so that the power tool can remain in the active state without assistance from an operator.
10. A power tool according to claim 8 further comprising a power cord for electrically connecting the power tool to a power supply, wherein the power cord extends from a distal end of the first handle and is electrically connected to the motor.
11. A power tool according to claim 9 further comprising a strain relief connected to the distal end of the handle and the power cord, wherein the strain relief assists the power cord in retaining its electrical connection to the motor when pulled on from a location on the cord remote from the power tool.
12. A power tool according to claim 8 wherein at least one of the first and second handles define a recess for retaining an accessory to be used in conjunction with the power tool.
13. A power tool according to claim 1 further comprising an accessory which is movable between a first position wherein the accessory is retained in the recess defined by the at least one of said first and second handles and a second position remote from the recess so that the accessory may be used to perform work on a workpiece.
14. A power tool according to claim 12 wherein the recess has a slot-like configuration.
15. A power tool according to claim 13 wherein the accessory is a brush-type tool which is capable of being moved between a retained position in the slot and a released position remote from the slot so that an operator may utilize the brush-type tool apart from the power tool to perform work on a workpiece.
16. An electrically-powered polisher having a pad and a motor to drive the pad, the polisher comprising:
a housing for containing a motor to drive a pad located below the housing; and
a handle connected to the housing defining a recess for retaining an accessory to be used in conjunction with the polisher.
17. An electrically-powered polisher according to claim 16 further comprising an accessory brush which is movable between a first position wherein the brush is retained in the recess defined by the handle and a second position remote from the opening so that the brush may be used to perform work on a workpiece.
Priority Applications (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10/336,878 US20030228833A1 (en) | 2002-06-07 | 2003-01-06 | Power tool and method of operating same |
CA 2416413 CA2416413A1 (en) | 2003-01-06 | 2003-01-14 | Power tool and method of operating same |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US29/162,046 USD475908S1 (en) | 2002-06-07 | 2002-06-07 | Power tool |
US10/336,878 US20030228833A1 (en) | 2002-06-07 | 2003-01-06 | Power tool and method of operating same |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US29/162,046 Continuation USD475908S1 (en) | 2002-06-07 | 2002-06-07 | Power tool |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20030228833A1 true US20030228833A1 (en) | 2003-12-11 |
Family
ID=22583929
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US29/162,046 Expired - Lifetime USD475908S1 (en) | 2002-06-07 | 2002-06-07 | Power tool |
US10/336,878 Abandoned US20030228833A1 (en) | 2002-06-07 | 2003-01-06 | Power tool and method of operating same |
Family Applications Before (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US29/162,046 Expired - Lifetime USD475908S1 (en) | 2002-06-07 | 2002-06-07 | Power tool |
Country Status (2)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (2) | USD475908S1 (en) |
CA (1) | CA100100S (en) |
Cited By (22)
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US20040058632A1 (en) * | 2002-09-19 | 2004-03-25 | Boyer Christopher T. | Power tool with portable power source |
US20050153637A1 (en) * | 2003-11-03 | 2005-07-14 | John Clayton Janson | Power tool adjustable handle assembly |
US7047585B2 (en) | 2002-04-02 | 2006-05-23 | Wmh Tool Group, Inc. | Power tool |
US20070114051A1 (en) * | 2005-11-21 | 2007-05-24 | Manfred Ege | Hand-held power tool with foamed cabling |
JP2008284657A (en) * | 2007-05-18 | 2008-11-27 | Makita Corp | Sander |
US20080318500A1 (en) * | 2007-06-25 | 2008-12-25 | Chervon Limited | Electric sanding machine |
US20090204061A1 (en) * | 2008-02-12 | 2009-08-13 | Bellecore, Llc | Method and apparatus for treating cellulite |
US20090209182A1 (en) * | 2006-09-05 | 2009-08-20 | Dynabrade, Inc. | Locking random orbital dual-action head assembly |
US7713110B2 (en) | 2006-09-05 | 2010-05-11 | Dynabrade, Inc. | Locking random orbital dual-action head assembly |
US20100151775A1 (en) * | 2006-09-05 | 2010-06-17 | Dynabrade, Inc. | Locking random orbital dual-action head assembly with centering |
US20110014856A1 (en) * | 2009-07-14 | 2011-01-20 | Tai-Her Yang | Direct motor-drive portable angle grinder |
US8057285B2 (en) | 2006-08-21 | 2011-11-15 | Dynabrade, Inc. | Comfort grip for an orbital abrasive hand tool |
US20120302143A1 (en) * | 2011-05-25 | 2012-11-29 | Oy Kwh Mirka Ab | Handheld machine |
US20130165027A1 (en) * | 2011-12-21 | 2013-06-27 | Makita Corporation | Sander |
US20150118945A1 (en) * | 2013-10-28 | 2015-04-30 | Black & Decker Inc. | Handle arrangement for sander |
CN107398823A (en) * | 2016-05-19 | 2017-11-28 | 正峰新能源股份有限公司 | Grinder |
US9868199B2 (en) | 2014-01-29 | 2018-01-16 | Black & Decker Inc. | Paddle assembly on a compact sander |
DE102019006574A1 (en) * | 2019-09-18 | 2021-03-18 | Metabowerke Gmbh | Hand machine tool and method of making a hand machine tool |
US20210196322A1 (en) * | 2019-12-27 | 2021-07-01 | Candace Fletcher | Foot Sander Assembly |
US20220362919A1 (en) * | 2021-05-12 | 2022-11-17 | Andreas Stihl Ag & Co. Kg | Handheld Power Tool |
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US11897114B1 (en) | 2022-08-16 | 2024-02-13 | Techtronic Cordless Gp | Accessory storage location for power tool |
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Cited By (32)
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US7047585B2 (en) | 2002-04-02 | 2006-05-23 | Wmh Tool Group, Inc. | Power tool |
US6971951B2 (en) | 2002-09-19 | 2005-12-06 | Wmh Tool Group, Inc. | Power tool with portable power source |
US20040058632A1 (en) * | 2002-09-19 | 2004-03-25 | Boyer Christopher T. | Power tool with portable power source |
US20050153637A1 (en) * | 2003-11-03 | 2005-07-14 | John Clayton Janson | Power tool adjustable handle assembly |
US7108593B2 (en) * | 2003-11-03 | 2006-09-19 | Wmh Tool Group, Inc. | Power tool adjustable handle assembly |
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JP2008284657A (en) * | 2007-05-18 | 2008-11-27 | Makita Corp | Sander |
US7731571B2 (en) | 2007-06-25 | 2010-06-08 | Chervon Limited | Electric sanding machine |
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US20090204061A1 (en) * | 2008-02-12 | 2009-08-13 | Bellecore, Llc | Method and apparatus for treating cellulite |
US8986076B2 (en) | 2009-07-14 | 2015-03-24 | Tai-Her Yang | Direct motor-drive portable angle grinder |
US20110014856A1 (en) * | 2009-07-14 | 2011-01-20 | Tai-Her Yang | Direct motor-drive portable angle grinder |
US8628380B2 (en) * | 2009-07-14 | 2014-01-14 | Tai-Her Yang | Direct motor-drive portable angle grinder |
US20120302143A1 (en) * | 2011-05-25 | 2012-11-29 | Oy Kwh Mirka Ab | Handheld machine |
US8926409B2 (en) * | 2011-05-25 | 2015-01-06 | Oy Kwh Mirka Ab | Handheld machine |
US20130165027A1 (en) * | 2011-12-21 | 2013-06-27 | Makita Corporation | Sander |
US9061393B2 (en) * | 2011-12-21 | 2015-06-23 | Makita Corporation | Sander |
US20150118945A1 (en) * | 2013-10-28 | 2015-04-30 | Black & Decker Inc. | Handle arrangement for sander |
US9387578B2 (en) * | 2013-10-28 | 2016-07-12 | Black & Decker Inc. | Handle arrangement for sander |
US10046433B2 (en) | 2013-10-28 | 2018-08-14 | Black & Decker Inc. | Handle arrangement for sander |
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CN107398823A (en) * | 2016-05-19 | 2017-11-28 | 正峰新能源股份有限公司 | Grinder |
DE102019006574A1 (en) * | 2019-09-18 | 2021-03-18 | Metabowerke Gmbh | Hand machine tool and method of making a hand machine tool |
EP3795305A1 (en) | 2019-09-18 | 2021-03-24 | Metabowerke GmbH | Handheld machine tool |
US20210196322A1 (en) * | 2019-12-27 | 2021-07-01 | Candace Fletcher | Foot Sander Assembly |
US20220362919A1 (en) * | 2021-05-12 | 2022-11-17 | Andreas Stihl Ag & Co. Kg | Handheld Power Tool |
USD1004236S1 (en) | 2021-07-13 | 2023-11-07 | Techtronic Cordless Gp | Buffer |
US11897114B1 (en) | 2022-08-16 | 2024-02-13 | Techtronic Cordless Gp | Accessory storage location for power tool |
Also Published As
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USD475908S1 (en) | 2003-06-17 |
CA100100S (en) | 2004-05-14 |
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Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
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STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |