WO2013116303A1

WO2013116303A1 - Power tool

Info

Publication number: WO2013116303A1
Application number: PCT/US2013/023798
Authority: WO
Inventors: Steven J. Phillips; Oleksiy P. Sergyeyenko; Christopher W. SHOOK
Original assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
Priority date: 2012-01-30
Filing date: 2013-01-30
Publication date: 2013-08-08

Abstract

A power tool including a body having a handle and a housing containing a motor, the motor being drivably coupled to a rotary shaft. The power tool further comprises a controller and an input interface of a light sensitive receiver. The input interface is configured to receive an input and the controller controls an operating parameter of the power tool based on the input.

Description

POWER TOOL

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/592,127 filed on January 30, 2012. The entire disclosure of the above application is incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] This application relates to a power tools and the programming of power tools for various applications.

BACKGROUND

[0003] This section provides background information related to the present disclosure which is not necessarily prior art.

[0004] It is known to provide power tools with controllers to control various parameters of the power tool, such as a power drill. These controllers are programmed at the time the power tool is manufactured and provided with programming and data at that time. It may be useful to provide a simple way of updating the data and/or programming of the controller after manufacture of the power tool.

SUMMARY

[0005] According to one aspect, a power tool includes a body having a handle and a housing containing a motor, the motor being drivably coupled to a rotary shaft. The power tool further comprises a controller and an input interface of a light sensitive receiver. The input interface is configured to receive an input and the controller controls an operating parameter of the power tool based on the input.

[0006] The light sensitive receiver may include at least one of a photodiode and a phototransistor. [0007] The input interface may be configured to receive an input comprising at least one of a brightness and a color.

[0008] The power tool may be a power drill and include an electronic clutch and a torque limit of the electronic clutch may be set by the controller according to the input received at the input interface.

[0009] The input interface may receive data which is transferred to the programmable controller.

[0010] The power tool may comprise a tool base unit and a detachable tool head and may be configured to receive information related to the detachable tool head. [0011] The detachable tool head may be a sander head.

[0012] The detachable tool head may be an impact driver head.

[0013] According to another aspect, a power tool includes a body having a handle and a housing containing a motor, a controller, and an input interface. The input interface is configured to receive an input comprising an activation code and the controller controls an operating parameter of the power tool according to the activation code.

[0014] The input interface may be a light sensitive receiver.

[0015] The light sensitive receiver may be configured to receive an input comprising at least one of a brightness and a color.

[0016] The power tool may include a tool base unit and a detachable tool head; and the operating parameter may be related to the detachable tool head.

[0017] The power tool may include a tool base unit and a detachable tool head; and the input interface is configured to receive an input related to the identification of the detachable tool head.

[0018] According to another aspect, a power tool includes a body having a handle and a housing containing a motor; the motor drivably coupled to a rotary shaft. The power tool further includes a controller; andan input interface comprising a light sensitive receiver. The input interface is configured to receive an input comprising at least one of a wavelength, color or duration of light; and the input is provided to the controller.

[0019] The controller may controls an operating parameter of the power tool based on the input. [0020] Further areas of applicability will become apparent from the description provided herein. The description and specific examples in this summary are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only of selected embodiments and not all possible implementation, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0022] Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a power tool and smart phone according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention;

[0023] Fig. 2 is a another perspective view of a power tool and smart phone according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention;

[0024] Fig. 3 is a partially cut-away side view of a power tool according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention;

[0025] Fig. 4 is a side view of a power tool according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention; [0026] Fig. 5 is a side view of a power tool according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention including an interchangeable impact tool head; and

[0027] Fig. 6 is a side view of a power tool according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention including an interchangeable sander tool head.

[0028] Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0029] Exemplary embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. [0030] With reference to Figures 1-4, an exemplary tool in the form of a drill constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure is generally indicated by reference numeral 10. The drill 10 can include a housing assembly 12, a motor 14, a trigger 22, a transmission assembly 16, and an output spindle 18.

[0031] The motor 14 and the trigger 22 can be conventional in their construction and operation. In brief, the motor 14 can include an output shaft 92 that can provide a rotary input (torque) to the transmission assembly 16, while the trigger 22 can be mounted to the handle 20 and employed to selectively couple the motor 14 to a source of electrical power, such as a battery pack 24. In the example provided, the trigger assembly includes reversible variable speed controller, but it will be appreciated that various other types of trigger could be substituted for the particular trigger assembly that is shown in the drawings and described herein.

[0032] The drill 10 includes a programmable controller 100 that is capable of directing various functions of the tool. For instance, the controller 100 may control the torque or speed of a motor; the amount of power drawn by the motor 14; variability of the speed; direction of the motor 14; it could shut down the motor 14 and/or cut off a power source, such as the battery pack 24, if an error or other condition is detected, etc.

[0033] The drill 10 has an input interface (receiver/connection port) that receives an input and may be in the form of a light sensitive receiver 30 as shown in Figs. 1-3. The input can be the receipt of data from an electronic device which is shown in Figs. 1 and 2 as a smart phone 200. In the exemplary embodiment, the light sensitive receiver 30 includes a photodiode and/or a photo transistor which can receive and/or measure an input of light (or measure various features of the light). When the input interface is a light sensitive receiver 30, the input may be a coded signal based on the brightness (amplitude) or color (wavelength) modulation of light. [0034] As shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the input interface 30 may receive an input from an electronic device 20. In the exemplary embodiment shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the electronic device 200 is a smart phone which includes a screen 201. In the exemplary embodiment when the input port 30 is a light sensitive receiver, the user may provide an input by positioning the smart phone screen over the light sensitive receiver on the power tool 10, as shown in Fig. 2.

[0035] A light sensitive receiver may be a beneficial input interface for several reasons. Particularly, a light sensitive receiver can be implemented in a power tool in a cost effective manner. Additionally, the light sensitive receiver 30 can receive an input in an easy manner without the necessity for cords. Also, it allows for a variety of readily available input devices. Particularly, any input device which can produce light and changes in light, such as modifying the brightness and or color, or by flashing such light signal on and off for various periods, can be used as an input device. The example given above, a smart phone 200 with a screen 201 can modify the brightness and or color of light and can be programmed to provide an input based on these signals. However, it is readily understood that other input devices such as a notebook or tablet computer may be used.

[0036] A user can use an app or visit a website using the smart phone to choose the particulars of a task. When a user chooses a task, the smart phone can then provide information to the controller 100 so that the tool has the appropriate operating parameters for the chosen task. As noted above, the parameters may include the torque or speed of a motor for a given task or tasks; the amount of power drawn by the motor 14; variability of the speed; direction of the motor 14; it could shut down the motor 14 and/or cut off a power source, such as the battery pack 24, if an error or other condition is detected; and the like. The controller 100 may include a memory or there may be a separate memory 98 with which the controller 100 communicates.

[0037] Multiple algorithms may be already stored on the power tool 10 in the controller 100 or memory 98 and the smart phone 200 may transfer only an activation code for the selected algorithm. Alternatively, the smart phone 200 may download new or more detailed information or data to the power tool 10. [0038] A light sensitive receiver 30 is described above, but other possibilities are contemplated. For example, other electromagnetic communication may be used.

[0039] According to one exemplary embodiment, the power tool may be programmed to prevent accidental or non-authorized data transfer from stray electromagnetic noise by being programmed only to accept a predetermined sequence of signals. Additionally or alternatively, the controller 100 could be protected by a password set by the owner or another authorized user.

[0040] An example of using the present disclosure with electronic clutch will be described with respect to Fig. 4. In the exemplary embodiment of Fig. 4, the drill 10 includes an electronic clutch which serves to limit the torque of the output spindle 18. The electronic clutch may be of the type, for example, that senses current, motor speed, voltage or a combination thereof to determine when a set torque is reached. Then, the controller 100 can stop the motor 14 when a particular torque is reached (as determined by, for example, measuring the current which is related to torque). The motor 14 may be stopped by cutting power from the battery pack 24 to the motor 14. Alternatively, other methods may be used, such as applying a brake. The controller 100 may be used or a separate clutch controller may be added.

[0041] Different clutch settings (maximum torques) are helpful for different

applications. For example, when driving a screw into a wall, a user may want to set the torque such that the screw is driven enough that it will be set flush with the wall, but not beyond that point. However, the torque necessary for a flush setting will be dependent upon the screw and the material the screw is being driven into. For example, it will take more torque to drive the same screw into a harder piece of wood than a softer piece of wood.

[0042] According to an exemplary embodiment, the power tool equipped with a programmable controller may be downloaded with custom control algorithms to enhance the tool performance for particular tasks. For example, clutch settings may be downloaded to the programmable controller for a particular task. According to one embodiment, a user may use a website to choose the task they are going to perform. For example, the user may want to drive a 2 ½" screw flush into a pressure treated 2x4. On the website (or using an app), the user may use an application that allows them to input the particulars of the task including, for example, the size of the screw (2 ½"), the material the screw is being driven into (a pressure treated 2x4) and the desired application (driving the screw flush). The website (and/or app) can then communicate a clutch setting to the drill (via the programmable controller) so that the clutch is set to the required level to achieve flush setting of the tool.

[0043] The present disclosure is also applicable to power tools of the type with a power tool base unit and interchangeable tool heads, as shown in Figs. 5 and 6. This general type of power tool is known from patents such as U.S. Patent Nos. 6,153,838, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. As shown in Figs. 5 and 6, the tool comprises a tool base unit 100 and a removably attached tool head 250. In Fig. 5, an impact driver 261 is attached as the tool head 250 and in Fig. 6 a sander head 260 is attached as the tool head. The tool base unit 100 includes a housing 12, a handle 20 extending from the housing 12 and a battery 24 at the far end of the handle 20. A trigger 22 is used to activate the motor 14.

[0044] In the embodiment of Figs. 5 and 6, the input interface 30 may be placed on the housing 12 that is part of the tool base unit 100 or, alternatively or additionally, an input interface 30' may be placed on the removable tool head 250. In either event, an input can be provided at the input interface 30/30' as previously described to affect operation of the power tool.

[0045] When used with a sanding head 260, as shown in Fig. 6, there may be different programming features to provide. For example, a user may use the website or app as described above and enter the task of sanding a particular type of wood. As described above, the electronic device 200 can then download a control algorithm into the power tool. In this example, the control algorithm may control the speed of sanding, the pressure allowed, the direction of the sanding, etc. Additionally, the control algorithm may prevent operation of the tool if it has the wrong tool head 250.

[0046] ID information identifying the type of tool head 250 attached to the base unit 100 may also be downloaded according to the method described in this disclosure. For example, a smart phone 200 may communicate the ID information and/or control information associated with a sander tool head to the power tool. Alternatively or additionally, the smart phone may communicate updated ID or control information as new control schemes are discovered. The smart phone 200 may be provided with this information from a website, app or other various means. [0047] The specific examples of a sanding tool head 260 and an impact tool head 261 are provided in Figs. 5 and 6. However, the disclosure is not limited thereto, and the tool head 250 may be any of a variety of tool heads of known power tools, such as, but not limited to, various saws, an oscillating tool, an inflator, and a hedge trimmer.

[0048] Exemplary embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will convey the scope to those who are skilled in the art. Numerous specific details are set forth such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details need not be employed, that example embodiments may be embodied in many different forms and that neither should be construed to limit the scope of the disclosure. In some example embodiments, well-known processes, well- known device structures, and well-known technologies are not described in detail. For example, in the exemplary embodiment shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the power tool is a cordless drill. However, other types of power tools may be used. Similarly, the electronic device shown is a smart phone, but other electronic devices, such as a computer or tablet, are contemplated.

[0049] Numerous modifications may be made to the exemplary implementations described above and are within the scope and spirit of the application. Furthermore, the various features described above may be used either alone or in combination with one another, even if not specifically shown or described.

Claims

1. A power tool comprising:

a body having a handle and a housing containing a motor;

the motor drivably coupled to a rotary shaft;

a controller; and

an input interface comprising a light sensitive receiver;

wherein the input interface is configured to receive an input; and wherein the controller controls an operating parameter of the power tool based on the input.

2. The power tool of claim 1, wherein the light sensitive receiver comprises at least one of a photodiode and a phototransistor.

3. The power tool of claim 1, wherein the input interface is configured to receive an input comprising at least one of a brightness and a color.

4. The power tool of claim 1, wherein the power tool is a power drill and includes an electronic clutch; and

wherein a torque limit of the electronic clutch is set by the controller according to the input received at the input interface.

5. The power tool of claim 1, wherein the input interface receives data which is transferred to the programmable controller.

6. The power tool of claim 1, wherein the power tool comprises a tool base unit and a detachable tool head; and

wherein the configured to receive information related to the detachable tool head.

7. The power tool of claim 1, wherein the detachable tool head comprises a sander head.

8. The power tool of claim 1, wherein the detachable tool head comprises an impact driver head.

9. A power tool comprising:

a body having a handle and a housing containing a motor;

the motor drivably coupled to a rotary shaft;

a controller; and

an input interface;

wherein the input interface is configured to receive an input comprising an activation code; and

wherein the controller controls an operating parameter of the power tool according to the activation code.

10. The power tool of claim 9, wherein input interface comprises a light sensitive receiver.

11. The power tool of claim 10, wherein the light sensitive receiver is configured to receive an input comprising at least one of a brightness and a color.

12. The power tool of claim 9, wherein the power tool comprises a tool base unit and a detachable tool head; and

the operating parameter is related to the detachable tool head.

13. The power tool of claim 9, wherein the power tool comprises a tool base unit and a detachable tool head; and

the input interface is configured to receive an input related to the identification of the detachable tool head.

14. A power tool comprising:

a body having a handle and a housing containing a motor;

the motor drivably coupled to a rotary shaft;

a controller; and

an input interface comprising a light sensitive receiver; wherein the input interface is configured to receive an input comprising at least one of a wavelength, color or duration of light; and

wherein the input is provided to the controller.

15. The power tool according to claim 14, wherein the controller controls an operating parameter of the power tool based on the input.