Power tool status indicator

Abstract

The present disclosure teaches a power tool and a safety device for a power tool. The power tool comprises a working part, a motor and a power source. At least one sounding device and at least one sensor for detecting one or more operating parameters of the tool. The controller controls the at least one sound emitting device to emit: a first sound in a first mode of operation, if one or more operating parameters detected by the at least one sensor satisfy a first predetermined threshold of the parameter; and a second sound in a second mode of operation, the second sound being different from the first sound if one or more operating parameters detected by the at least one sensor satisfy a second and different predetermined threshold for that parameter.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to power tools and, in particular, to power tools that receive a removable power source. Background Art

[0002] Power tools can include an internal power source (such as an integrated rechargeable battery) or a removable power source (such as a removable battery pack or a removable power cable connected to an external DC or AC power source).

[0003] The current or voltage consumption requirements of a power tool (e.g., during peak consumption) may exceed the capacity of the power source being used, especially when using a removable power source; resulting in over-temperature or over-current events.

[0004] For example, a user may select a low-capacity battery pack with a small footprint and / or an external power source significantly below the necessary parameters to support peak operation of the attached tool. These events may shorten the operating life of the power tool or the battery; or may even potentially compromise the operator's safety, especially if the tool continues to operate in such a state for an extended period of time.

[0005] Typically, power tools operate in a variety of challenging operating environments, including bright, dark, noisy, dusty, and dirty environments, in which it may be difficult to determine the operating state of the power tool and / or the battery.

[0006] An object of the present disclosure is to solve or at least partially improve some of the above problems of current methods. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The features and advantages of the present disclosure will be set forth in the following description, and in part will be apparent from the description, or may be learned by practice of the principles disclosed herein. The features and advantages of the present disclosure may be realized and obtained by the instrumentalities and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims.

[0008] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a power tool that can include a working component, a motor for driving the working component, a power source, and at least one sensor coupled to a controller that is configured to detect one or more parameters of the power source of the tool or the motor of the power tool. The controller can be configured to generate an output signal, wherein the output signal includes an audible output.

[0009] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an apparatus for a power tool, in particular a safety device. The apparatus may include a controller configured to detect one or more parameters of a power supply of the tool or a motor of the power tool via at least one sensor coupled to the power supply of the power tool or the motor of the power tool. The controller may be configured to generate an output signal, wherein the output signal includes an audible output.

[0010] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a non-transitory computer-readable medium. The non-transitory computer-readable medium may contain instructions for controlling a power tool to emit an audible output, wherein the instructions may be configured such that at least one processor of the power tool may be configured to detect one or more parameters of a power supply of the tool or a motor of the power tool via at least one sensor coupled to the power supply of the power tool or the motor of the power tool; and generate an output signal, wherein the output signal includes an audible output.

[0011] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a power tool that may include a working component, a motor for driving the working component, a power supply; at least one sound-emitting device and at least one sensor, the at least one sound-emitting device being coupled to a controller configured to detect one or more operating parameters of the tool and control the at least one sound-emitting device to emit: a first sound in a first operating mode if one or more operating parameters detected by the at least one sensor meet a first predetermined threshold of the parameter; and a second sound in a second operating mode if one or more operating parameters detected by the at least one sensor meet a second and different predetermined threshold of the parameter, wherein the second sound may be different from the first sound.

[0012] In various embodiments of the present invention, the operating parameters of the tool detected by the at least one sensor may be selected from the group including: the voltage of the power supply; the current drawn by the motor; the current supplied by the power supply; the temperature of the motor, the temperature of the battery, the temperature of the controller, and the operating speed of the motor.

[0013] Advantageously, when one or more operating parameters meet the second predetermined threshold, the second sound may be emitted for a predetermined duration, and then if the one or more operating parameters still meet the second predetermined threshold, the controller may switch the tool to a non-operating state.

[0014] Moreover, if one or more operating parameters meet the first predetermined threshold but do not meet the second predetermined threshold, the sound-emitting device may emit the first sound for a first predetermined time.

[0015] Preferably, one or more of the timbre, frequency, loudness, or type of the first sound emitted by the sound - emitting device may be different from the corresponding timbre, frequency, pitch, volume, or type of the second sound emitted by the sound - emitting device.

[0016] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a safety device for a power tool is provided. The safety device may include: a controller configured to detect one or more operating parameters of the power source of the tool or the motor of the power tool via at least one sensor coupled to the power source of the tool or the motor of the power tool; the controller may be configured to activate at least one sound - emitting device to emit: a first sound in a first operating mode if one or more operating parameters detected by the at least one sensor meet a first predetermined threshold of the parameters; and a second sound in a second operating mode if one or more operating parameters detected by the at least one sensor meet a second predetermined threshold of the parameters, and the second sound may be different from the first sound.

[0017] The operating parameters of the tool detected by the at least one sensor may be selected from the group including: the voltage of the power source; the current drawn by the motor; the current supplied by the power source; the temperature of the motor, the temperature of the battery, the temperature of the controller, and the operating speed of the motor.

[0018] Advantageously, once one or more operating parameters meet the second predetermined threshold, the second sound may be emitted for a predetermined duration, and then if one or more operating parameters still meet the second predetermined threshold at the end of this predetermined duration, the controller may switch the tool to a non - operating state.

[0019] In addition, if one or more operating parameters meet the first predetermined threshold but do not meet the second predetermined threshold, the sound - emitting device may emit the first sound for a first predetermined duration.

[0020] Preferably, one or more of the timbre, frequency, loudness, or type of the first sound emitted by the sound - emitting device may be different from the corresponding timbre, frequency, pitch, volume, or type of the second sound emitted by the sound - emitting device.

[0021] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising instructions for controlling an electric power tool to emit a first sound and at least a second sound, the instructions being configurable such that at least one processor of the power tool can be configured to: detect, via at least one sensor coupled to a power source of the tool or a motor of the power tool, one or more operating parameters of the power source of the tool or the motor of the power tool; activate at least one sound-emitting device of the tool to emit: the first sound in a first operating mode if one or more operating parameters detected by the at least one sensor meet a first predetermined threshold of the parameter; and the second sound in a second operating mode if one or more operating parameters detected by the at least one sensor meet a second predetermined threshold of the parameter, wherein the second sound may be different from the first sound.

[0022] The operating parameters of the tool detected by the at least one sensor may be selected from the group comprising: voltage of the power source; current drawn by the motor; current supplied by the power source; temperature of the motor, temperature of the battery, temperature of the controller, and operating speed of the motor.

[0023] Advantageously, once one or more operating parameters meet the second predetermined threshold, the second sound may be emitted for a predetermined duration, and subsequently, if one or more operating parameters still meet the second predetermined threshold at the end of this predetermined duration, the tool may be switched to a non-operating state.

[0024] However, if one or more operating parameters meet the first predetermined threshold but do not meet the second predetermined threshold, the sound-emitting device may emit the first sound for a first predetermined duration.

[0025] Preferably, one or more of the timbre, frequency, loudness, or type of the first sound emitted by the sound-emitting device may be different from the corresponding timbre, frequency, pitch, volume, or type of the second sound emitted by the sound-emitting device.

[0026] As understood herein, the term "or" may be understood as an exclusive "or". In other embodiments, the term "or" may be understood to mean "and / or". BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] In order to describe the manner in which the above and other advantages and features of the present disclosure can be obtained, the above briefly described principles will be described in more detail by reference to specific embodiments of the present disclosure shown in the drawings. It should be understood that these drawings only depict exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure and should not be considered as limiting the scope of the present disclosure, and the principles herein are described and explained more specifically and in detail by using the drawings.

[0028] The preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be further explained in detail below by way of examples and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:-

[0029] Figure 1A An exemplary schematic diagram of a power tool according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is depicted.

[0030] Figure 1B An exemplary drill including a safety device of the present disclosure, which operates as described herein, is depicted.

[0031] Figure 1C An exemplary chainsaw including a safety device of the present disclosure, which operates as described herein, is depicted.

[0032] Figure 2 An exemplary image depicting various detachable power sources is depicted.

[0033] Figure 3A A table having information regarding a detachable power source in an embodiment is depicted.

[0034] Figure 3B A table having information regarding a detachable power source according to an embodiment is depicted.

[0035] Figure 4A Is an exemplary representation of a first detected threshold and a second detected threshold for certain parameter values in an embodiment that satisfies a first condition and a second condition.

[0036] Figure 4B Is an alternative representation of a first detected threshold and a second detected threshold for certain parameter values in an embodiment that satisfies a first condition and a second condition.

[0037] Figure 5A Is an exemplary flowchart depicting the operating steps of a safety device / power tool according to an embodiment.

[0038] Figure 5B Is an exemplary operating mode of a sound generating device. Detailed Description

[0039] Various different embodiments of the present disclosure are discussed in detail below. Although specific implementations are discussed, it should be understood that this is for illustrative purposes only. Those skilled in the relevant art will recognize that other components and configurations may be used without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

[0040] The disclosed technology addresses the need in the art for an effective way to provide a notification to an operator of a power tool that one or more monitored parameters have met one or more threshold conditions indicating that a change in operation may be required.

[0041] It should be understood that, as used herein, a signal that "meets" a threshold can refer to a signal that drops below the threshold (e.g., relative to a detected voltage emitted from a power source such as a battery), or exceeds the threshold (e.g., relative to a detected temperature of a motor or battery, or a measured current consumed by a motor). A person of ordinary skill in the art can determine the specific value of a predetermined threshold of a detected parameter and whether meeting the threshold means that the parameter drops above or below the relevant threshold of the detected parameter based on the parameters and detection devices used.

[0042] Figure 1A FIG. shows a schematic diagram illustrating a power tool 100 according to an embodiment. The power tool 100 includes a working component 104, a motor 102, a power connector 108, and a controller 106. The power tool 100 can be any power tool 100, including but not limited to handheld, portable, or push / drive tools. Examples include line trimmers, chain saws, power drills, lawn mowers, post drills, leaf blowers, snow blowers, etc.

[0043] The working component 104 can be configured to perform a work task when driven by the motor 102. For example, the working component 104 can include a spool and line for a line trimmer, a chain for a chain saw, a chuck and drill bit for a power drill, etc.

[0044] The motor 102 is configured to drive the working component 104. The motor 102 can be a DC or AC, brushed or brushless motor. The motor 102 can be configured to operate at any suitable input voltage, e.g., 9V, 12V, 18V, 20V, or 40V DC, 110V or 240V AC, or any other suitable rated voltage.

[0045] The power connector 108 is configured to receive a detachable power source. The detachable power source can be an independent electrical storage device, such as a cell, battery, power pack, voltaic pile, capacitor, or supercapacitor. A battery with any suitable chemistry can be used, such as lithium-ion, nickel-cadmium, alkaline, mercury, silver oxide, lead-acid, etc. Alternatively, the detachable power source can be an external power source, such as a 110V or 240V mains AC power source, e.g., a DC transformer power source from an external power pack or mains connection, or an external DC power source from a power generation source (e.g., a solar panel).

[0046] The detachable power source can include an internal data memory for holding information about the detachable power source. For example, the internal data storage can include information related to the parameters, characteristics, or use of the detachable power source, as will be described in more detail below.

[0047] The sensor 112 can be any one or more of a variety of different types of sensors for measuring operating parameters of the power tool. For example, the sensor can be a current sensor connected to the motor or power supply, a voltage sensor connected to the power supply, a temperature sensor positioned to monitor the temperature of the battery, a motor or transistor (such as a MOSFET connected to the controller), or a speed sensor connected to detect the speed during motor operation.

[0048] The sound - generating device 114 can be a buzzer, a speaker, or the like, or some other sound - generating device, or even the motor itself. The sound - generating device can be controlled to emit two or more sounds that sound different, and these two or more sounds that sound different can be distinguished from each other audibly by the operator. Alternatively, those skilled in the art will understand that, without departing from the scope of this disclosure, the controller can control separate sound - generating devices to emit sounds.

[0049] The first sound and the second sound can differ in one or more of the timbre, frequency, loudness, or type of the first sound emitted by the sound - generating device, such that such a distinction is possible.

[0050] As depicted, the controller 106 is configured to control the operation of the motor and / or the sound - generating device. Alternatively, separate controllers can control the operation of the motor and the operation of the sound - generating device.

[0051] As depicted, the controller 106 is coupled to at least one sensor and controls the sound - generating device such that if one or more operating parameters detected by the at least one sensor meet a first predetermined threshold of the parameter; and

[0052] If one or more operating parameters detected by the at least one sensor meet a second predetermined threshold of the parameter, a second sound in a second operating mode, where the second sound is different from the first sound.

[0053] Figure 1B is a schematic diagram showing a power tool 120 according to an embodiment. The power tool 120 is a handheld power drill that includes a chuck 124 as a working part, a motor 126, a detachable power supply 130 received at a power connector (not shown), and a controller 128. The controller 128 can be connected to a current sensor across the battery 132a, a temperature sensor of the battery 132b, a temperature sensor of the motor 132c, a current sensor of the motor 132d, and other sensors.

[0054] In an exemplary scenario, a drill, which is attached with a small-capacity battery, can be used to drill large holes in concrete. In such a scenario, the user may be a bit impatient; and squeeze the trigger to try to perform the work faster. This type of operation will cause the battery to discharge quickly, and the current consumed by the motor may exceed the ability of the battery to supply the required current. In this way; the current consumed by the motor exceeds the first threshold current that the battery can supply, and this threshold parameter is stored by the controller (potentially based on the battery identified by the controller).

[0055] Since the current usage meets (in this case exceeds) the first threshold, the sound-emitting device 134 can be triggered to emit a first sound, that is, a beep sound (for example) with a tone of 15 Hz and a decibel level of 60 dB for 5 seconds, to indicate to the user that the operation mode (battery usage) is not sustainable. This current consumption can be reduced (for example, by the user reducing the force on the drill or the trigger pressure). However, after a predetermined period of time of emitting the sound; the controller can be configured to switch the tool to a non-operating state. Advantageously, the predetermined period of time can be the same as or greater than the period of time of emitting the first sound. It should be understood that the above parameters are only exemplary, and other durations and sound levels can be used.

[0056] The same operator using the drill on another hole in a concrete block can operate the motor with such a hammering force / speed that the current consumed by the motor meets the second threshold of the battery power / drill combination. This second threshold can be less than the first threshold and indicates a state where the current usage is harmful to the ongoing battery life. When the sensor detects that the current meets (exceeds) the second threshold, the controller can trigger the same or another sound-emitting device 134 to emit a second sound, and the sound of this second sound is different from the first sound.

[0057] This difference can be in terms of the timbre, frequency, tone, volume or type of the second sound emitted by the sound-emitting device, so that even in a noisy environment, the operator can acoustically distinguish the second sound.

[0058] It has been found that changes in the length, period, timbre (such as frequency, tone) or interval of the sound are particularly effective in notifying the operator that the operating parameters of the power tool have exceeded the normal operating conditions and that some modification to the operation of the tool is required.

[0059] This type of modification can be releasing the trigger to reduce the speed, reducing the force pushing the drill tip into the hole, or withdrawing the drill tip from the hole more frequently, or similar operations. Alternatively, the operator can change the small-capacity power supply to a power supply with a larger capacity or a mains power supply; both of which may increase the relative thresholds discussed.

[0060] Figure 1C FIG. is a schematic view showing a power tool 140 according to another embodiment. In this case, the power tool 140 is a hand-held chain saw, which includes a saw blade and a chain 144 as a working part, a motor 146, a detachable power supply 150 received at a power connector (not shown), and a controller 148.

[0061] The controller 148 can be connected to a current sensor 152a across the power supply 150, a temperature sensor 152b for the power supply 150, a temperature sensor 152c for the motor 146, a current sensor 152d for the motor 146, and other sensors.

[0062] In an exemplary arrangement, the chain saw 140 can be used to saw a very hard vertical tree; and due to the poor cutting design of the operator; the tree may be forced to close on the chain saw blade. When the operator continues to operate the motor 146 to make a cut; there is a higher resistance to the rotation of the chain; which means the motor temperature increases. Under these conditions, the temperature of the motor can increase until it exceeds a first threshold temperature, which is stored by the controller 148.

[0063] Since the temperature in this case meets the first threshold (i.e., it exceeds this threshold), the sound-emitting device 154 can be triggered to emit a first sound, which can include, for example, a 3-second beep with a tone of 15 Hz and a decibel level of 60 dB, to indicate to the user that they should not continue their ongoing use due to an overload situation caused by their usage pattern.

[0064] This is schematically depicted in Figure 4A ; where the graph 180 shows that the temperature meets (exceeds) the first threshold 182 in the time interval t1; continues to increase from the time interval t2; and the first sound is emitted from t2 to t3. (Alternatively, without departing from the present disclosure, the first sound can be configured to be emitted from t1 to t3).

[0065] If the user continues to operate the chain saw in this way, the temperature can meet a second temperature threshold ( Figure 4A 184 above), and after a predetermined time period has elapsed (e.g., 5 seconds), and the user has not modified the operation mode of the saw to reduce the temperature; the controller can be configured to switch the tool to a non-operating state.

[0066] This is also shown in Figure 4Ais schematically depicted, where graph 180 depicts how the temperature meets (exceeds) a second threshold 184 during time interval t3, after which a second sound is emitted. If this usage pattern continues beyond time interval t4; the tool is turned off. Due to the powered-off state of the tool, the current drops to zero during time interval t4, the temperature rises for a short time from time interval t4, and then gradually drops to the normal temperature. XXZ_Change Figure 4.

[0067] This difference can be in terms of the timbre, frequency, pitch, volume, or type of the second sound emitted by the sound-emitting device, such that even in a noisy environment, the operator can acoustically distinguish the second sound.

[0068] It has been found that changes in the length, period, timbre (such as frequency, pitch), or intervals of the sound are particularly effective in notifying the operator that one or more operating parameters of the power tool have exceeded the threshold of normal operating conditions and that some modification to the mode of operation of the tool is required. This type of modification can be releasing the trigger to reduce the speed, reducing the force by changing the cutting design, or withdrawing the saw from the cut more frequently, or similar operations.

[0069] Similarly, if a (e.g., 18V) lithium-ion battery is used for a chainsaw, if the chainsaw is continuously used, the voltage level provided by the battery can meet (i.e., drop below) a certain threshold (e.g., 17.2V). Once this threshold is met, a second sound can be triggered for a certain duration. If the chainsaw is further used beyond this second threshold and drops below the second threshold voltage, this usage may be transitioning to the point where the battery will stop operating. Therefore, after the second threshold is met; a second sound is generated; and optionally, the controller switches the tool to a non-operating state after a predetermined time period (which can be the same as or different from the time period for normal sound generation) has elapsed.

[0070] Figure 4B An example of such an arrangement is depicted, where, in scenario 1, the first sound is triggered because a parameter (e.g., voltage) meets (drops below) a first threshold 194 during time interval t1. The first sound can be appropriately emitted from t1 or t2 until t3 or a similar time.

[0071] If the voltage meets (drops below) a second voltage threshold 192 at t3, as depicted; the second sound is triggered. If this voltage remains below the second threshold 192 until time period t4, the tool can be switched to a non-operating state.

[0072] In an exemplary scenario, a first sound is emitted when the voltage drops to a first voltage threshold 194 (e.g., 18V at t1). When the voltage continues to drop until a second voltage threshold 192 (e.g., 12.5V) is met at t3, a second sound is triggered. If the measured voltage is the battery voltage; it should be understood that the battery voltage can then remain relatively constant, as Figure 4B shown.

[0073] Alternatively; as depicted, the voltage of another component being measured can drop to zero after t4. However, it can be understood that the voltage of the detected battery pack will remain in a constant state after t4. For example, the voltage of the battery pack will be higher than the second voltage threshold 192 (e.g., 12.5V) and preferably lower than the first voltage threshold 194 (e.g., 18V).

[0074] In addition to Figure 1B and Figure 1C the examples shown, the power tool can be embodied as, for example, a hedge trimmer, a cord trimmer, a lawn mower, a blower, a washer, a vacuum cleaner, or any other suitable tool or appliance. Similar thresholds can be determined for various parameters in these devices, and corresponding actions can also be implemented once the thresholds are met.

[0075] Figure 2 is an image showing different types of detachable power sources. As shown, the detachable power source can be a detachable battery pack. The detachable power source can be an 18V battery pack. The capacity of the battery pack and, in some cases, the physical size of the battery pack housing can depend on the number of battery cells in the battery pack. As shown, battery packs of various sizes and capacities can be equipped with a common connector. In this way, the power tool 100 can be equipped with a detachable power source having one of a variety of possible sizes and capacities. Thus, the battery pack can be selected by the user based on any of a number of factors (e.g., intended use, size / weight, cost, availability, etc.). As an example, the three 18V battery packs shown have capacities of 2Ah, 4Ah, and 12Ah from the smallest to the largest battery pack. In other examples, the battery pack can have a lower capacity (e.g., 1.5Ah), an intermediate capacity in the range of, for example, 5Ah or 9Ah, or a higher capacity (e.g., 20Ah or higher).

[0076] The power connector 108 can include one or more electrical contacts that are arranged to be adjacent to corresponding contacts on the received detachable power source. The power connector 108 can be configured to supply power from the detachable power source to one or more components (e.g., the motor 102) of the power tool 100.

[0077] The power connector 108 may include one or more data contacts arranged to be adjacent to corresponding contacts on the received removable power supply. In this way, the power connector 108 can receive information stored on the internal data memory of the removable power supply.

[0078] The controller 106 can receive inputs from the sensor 112 and can also be configured to control the motor 102.

[0079] Optionally, the power controller 106 can be configured to retrieve information about the removable power supply connected to the power connector 108. The controller 106 can retrieve information stored on the internal data memory of the removable power supply via one or more data contacts of the power connector 108.

[0080] Alternatively, the controller 106 can use other devices to determine information about the removable power supply. Such devices can be associated with the power connector 108 or can be provided separately. The controller 106 can use optical devices (e.g., image sensors) to read barcodes, QR codes, text, or characters or any other markings printed or otherwise provided on the removable power supply. The controller 106 can use tactile devices, such as one or more contact switches arranged to sense patterns or protrusions or other tactile indicators formed on the housing of the removable power supply. The controller 106 can use electromagnetic devices, such as RFID tags or short-range / scope communication connections to an internal data memory (such as NFC or Bluetooth). Alternatively, the controller 106 can use the electrical sensor 112 to directly measure one or more parameters of the removable power supply, such as measuring voltage load, capacity, etc.

[0081] Figure 3A is a table showing information about the removable power supply according to an embodiment. The shown table can be an example of the information stored on the internal data memory of the removable power supply. The information stored on the internal data can be retrieved via one or more data contacts of the power connector 108.

[0082] The retrieved information about the removable power supply can include the number of cells of the removable power supply. As shown, the battery capacity can be provided directly. In some examples, only the number of cells and / or cell type can be provided, allowing the power controller 106 to indirectly determine the battery capacity.

[0083] The retrieved information about the removable power supply can include the type, model, or serial number of the removable power supply.

[0084] The power tool 100 can include a memory configured to store a look-up table.

[0085] Figure 3BIt is a table showing information about a detachable power source according to an embodiment. The shown table may be an example of a look-up table stored in the memory of the power tool 100. The table may include a specific number of battery types or models. The table may be limited by the battery types / models physically compatible with the power connector 108. The information in the look-up table may be used to determine a first threshold and a second threshold, and thus determine when a first sound and a second sound are emitted by the sound-emitting device.

[0086] Figure 4A and Figure 4B Depicts an exemplary representation of the detected first threshold and second threshold for certain parameter values in embodiments where the (respectively exceeding the threshold and dropping below the threshold) first threshold and second threshold as described herein are met.

[0087] Figure 5A Depicts an overload function warning operation diagram 200, which is used to indicate the basic exemplary logic of the safety devices and systems of the present disclosure. Advantageously, the instructions of the processor of the controller of the power tool may be configured to perform the steps outlined below.

[0088] As depicted in the figure, if the trigger switch is pressed at 200 and if the tool is in the protection state 204 as depicted in the figure, the sound-emitting device depicted as a buzzer (but not limited to this) may be configured to operate at a first frequency (2 Hz) until the protection state is resolved.

[0089] This may be a situation where there is some kind of fault, such as overheating, overcurrent, overvoltage, etc.

[0090] Alternatively, if the tool is not in the protection state 206, the indication sensor at 208 may detect the sample current.

[0091] If the current exceeds (meets) the threshold of 55 A in this case; as depicted in Figure 210, the sound-emitting device working flag may be set to a value of one, as depicted in 212.

[0092] Conversely, if the detected current is less than the threshold of 50 A; as depicted in 214, the working flag of the sound-emitting device may be set to a zero value; as depicted in 216. Finally, if the current is greater than 50 A (but of course less than 55 A), the working flag of the sound-emitting device may not be set as depicted in branch 218.

[0093] If the flag of the sound-emitting device is set to 1, as depicted in 220, the sound-emitting device may be configured to operate at a frequency of 10 Hz, as depicted in branch 222. However, if the flag is not one, the sound-emitting device may be configured to stop working, as depicted in branch 224.

[0094] It should be understood that the sound - emitting device used in the safety device or power tool of the present disclosure can be customized to provide alternative sounds for different thresholds; indicating that the tool enters different operating modes, such as protection states caused by overload, insufficient battery power, different battery capacities; low voltage, low power, etc.

[0095] It should be understood that in addition to or in place of the above - mentioned states, other states can be selected. The sound - emitting device can be a simple buzzer; capable of operating at different frequencies to produce at least a first sound and a second sound. Alternatively, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure, the sound - emitting device can be a more complex speaker and memory; configured to emit at least a first sound and a second sound that are acoustically distinguishable from each other.

[0096] Figure 5B An exemplary schematic diagram depicting how to operate the same sound - emitting device is shown; different stop - time - period lengths are used for exemplary frequencies of 10 Hz and 2 Hz emitted. As depicted, the 10 - Hz frequency uses a 100 - ms stop - time period; the 2 - Hz frequency sound uses a 500 - ms stop - time period; however, it should be understood that neither the frequency nor the stop - time period is limited to this; and alternative time periods / frequencies can also be used.

[0097] It can be understood that sounds with frequencies below 2 Hz (such as 0.5 Hz or 1 Hz) and above 10 Hz (such as 15 Hz) are also applicable to the above examples. However, the frequencies for distinguishing the two different sounds should be implemented. For example, for a sound with a shorter interval (i.e., a fast sound), the frequency is in the range between 8 Hz and 15 Hz. In contrast, a sound with a longer interval (i.e., a slower sound) has a frequency that is at least 4 times lower than that of the fast sound. In this way, the operator can clearly distinguish the two sounds by means of different sound intervals and / or sufficiently differentiated frequencies as elaborated above.

[0098] In this way, the power tool and safety device of the present disclosure can operate the same sound - emitting device (such as a speaker, buzzer, or similar device) in different ways to produce different sounds to notify the operator of the presence of a predetermined state.

[0099] This state can be a state or operating mode in which the tool can be turned off and the operator is prevented from continuing to operate the power tool in the way they are currently operating the tool; or it can be an operating state or mode in which the operator is acoustically warned that the operating mode or manner of the tool may be inappropriate. Compared with an indicator light, using sound can better notify the operator because the indicator light may not be visible during outdoor / daytime operation.

[0100] Advantageously, the tool can be configured such that even when the tool is turned off and remains in an inactive operating state, the user can still feel the vibration of the tool generated by the emitted sound. The user's sensing of this vibration can also be used as a further indication to enhance the performance indicated by the emitted sound.

[0101] The above embodiments are described by way of example only. Many variations are possible without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as defined in the appended claims.

[0102] For clarity of explanation, in some instances, the present technology may be presented as including separate functional blocks that include functional blocks containing devices, device components, steps or routines in a method embodied in software or a combination of hardware and software.

[0103] The methods according to the above examples can be implemented using computer-executable instructions stored in or otherwise obtained from a computer-readable medium. Such instructions can include, for example, instructions and data that cause or otherwise configure a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, or a special-purpose processor to perform a certain function or group of functions. Portions of the computer resources used can be accessed via a network. The computer-executable instructions can be, for example, binary instructions, intermediate format instructions (such as assembly language), firmware, or source code. Examples of computer-readable media that can be used to store instructions, information used, and / or information generated during the methods according to the described examples include magnetic or optical disks, flash memory, universal serial bus (USB) devices provided with non-volatile memory, networked storage devices, and the like.

[0104] Devices implementing the methods according to these disclosures can include hardware, firmware, and / or software, and can take any of a variety of form factors. The functions described herein can also be embodied in a controller or add-on card. By way of additional example, such functions can also be implemented on a circuit board between different chips in a single device or different processes being executed.

[0105] Instructions, the media for transmitting such instructions, the computing resources for executing these instructions, and other structures for supporting these computing resources are all means for providing the functions described in the present disclosure.

[0106] Furthermore, some specific aspects of the present invention are further summarized in the following numbered embodiments:

[0107] 1. A power tool, the power tool including a working component, a motor for driving the working component, a power source, at least one sound generating device, and at least one sensor, the at least one sensor being coupled to a controller that is configured to detect one or more operating parameters of the tool and control the at least one sound generating device to emit:

[0108] A first sound in a first operating mode if one or more operating parameters detected by the at least one sensor meet a first predetermined threshold of the parameter; and

[0109] A second sound in a second operating mode if one or more operating parameters detected by the at least one sensor meet a second and different predetermined threshold of the parameter, wherein the second sound is different from the first sound.

[0110] 2. The power tool according to Embodiment 1, wherein the operating parameters of the tool detected by the at least one sensor are selected from the group including the following: the voltage of the power source; the current drawn by the motor; the current supplied by the power source; the temperature of the motor, the temperature of the battery, the temperature of the controller, and the operating speed of the motor.

[0111] 3. The power tool according to Embodiment 1 or Embodiment 2, wherein once one or more operating parameters meet the second predetermined threshold, the second sound is emitted for a predetermined duration, and then if one or more operating parameters still meet the second predetermined threshold, the controller switches the tool to a non-operating state.

[0112] 4. The power tool according to Embodiment 1 or Embodiment 2, wherein if one or more operating parameters meet the first predetermined threshold but do not meet the second predetermined threshold, the sound generating device emits the first sound for a first predetermined time.

[0113] 5. The power tool according to Embodiment 1 or Embodiment 2, wherein one or more of the timbre, frequency, loudness, or type of the first sound emitted by the sound generating device is different from the corresponding timbre, frequency, pitch, volume, or type of the second sound emitted by the sound generating device.

[0114] 6. A safety device for an electric power tool, comprising:

[0115] A controller configured to detect one or more operating parameters of the power source of the tool or the motor of the power tool via at least one sensor coupled to the power source of the tool or the motor of the power tool;

[0116] wherein the controller is configured to activate at least one sound generating device to emit:

[0117] A first sound in a first operating mode if one or more operating parameters detected by at least one sensor meet a first predetermined threshold of the parameter; and

[0118] A second sound in a second operating mode if one or more operating parameters detected by at least one sensor meet a second predetermined threshold of the parameter, wherein the second sound is different from the first sound.

[0119] 7. The safety device for a power tool according to embodiment 6, wherein the operating parameters of the tool detected by at least one sensor are selected from the group including the following: the voltage of the power supply; the current drawn by the motor; the current supplied by the power supply; the temperature of the motor, the temperature of the battery, the temperature of the controller, and the operating speed of the motor.

[0120] 8. The safety device for a power tool according to embodiment 6 or embodiment 7, wherein once one or more operating parameters meet the second predetermined threshold, the second sound is emitted for a predetermined duration, and then if one or more operating parameters still meet the second predetermined threshold at the end of the predetermined duration herein, the controller switches the tool to a non-operating state.

[0121] 9. The safety device for a power tool according to embodiment 6 or embodiment 7, wherein if one or more operating parameters meet the first predetermined threshold but do not meet the second predetermined threshold, the sound-emitting device emits the first sound for a first predetermined duration.

[0122] 10. The safety device for a power tool according to embodiment 6 or embodiment 7, wherein one or more of the timbre, frequency, loudness, or type of the first sound emitted by the sound-emitting device is different from the corresponding timbre, frequency, pitch, volume, or type of the second sound emitted by the sound-emitting device.

[0123] 11. A non-transitory computer-readable medium that contains instructions for controlling a power tool to emit a first sound and at least a second sound, wherein the instructions are configured such that at least one processor of the power tool is configured to:

[0124] Detect one or more operating parameters of the power supply of the tool or the motor of the power tool via at least one sensor coupled to the power supply of the tool or the motor of the power tool;

[0125] Activate at least one sound-emitting device of the tool to emit:

[0126] The first sound in the first operating mode if one or more operating parameters detected by at least one sensor meet the first predetermined threshold of the parameter; and

[0127] The second sound in the second operation mode, if one or more operation parameters detected by at least one sensor satisfy a second predetermined threshold of the parameter, wherein the second sound is different from the first sound.

[0128] 12. The non-transitory computer-readable medium according to embodiment 11, wherein the operation parameters of the tool detected by at least one sensor are selected from the group including the following: the voltage of the power supply; the current drawn by the motor; the current supplied by the power supply; the temperature of the motor, the temperature of the battery, the temperature of the controller, and the operating speed of the motor.

[0129] 13. The non-transitory computer-readable medium according to embodiment 11 or embodiment 12, wherein once one or more operation parameters satisfy the second predetermined threshold, the second sound is emitted for a predetermined duration, and subsequently, if one or more operation parameters still satisfy the second predetermined threshold at the end of this predetermined duration, the tool is switched to a non-operating state.

[0130] 14. The non-transitory computer-readable medium according to embodiment 11 or embodiment 12, wherein if one or more operation parameters satisfy the first predetermined threshold but do not satisfy the second predetermined threshold, the sound-emitting device emits the first sound for a first predetermined duration.

[0131] 15. The non-transitory computer-readable medium according to embodiment 11 or embodiment 12, wherein one or more of the timbre, frequency, loudness, or type of the first sound emitted by the sound-emitting device is different from the corresponding timbre, frequency, pitch, volume, or type of the second sound emitted by the sound-emitting device.

[0132] Although various examples and other information are used to explain aspects within the scope of the appended claims, in such examples, no limitation on the claims should be implied based on a particular feature or arrangement, because those of ordinary skill in the art will be able to use these examples to derive a wide variety of implementations. Further, although some subject matter may have been described in language specific to examples of structural features and / or method steps, it should be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to these described features or actions. For example, such functionality may be distributed differently or performed in components other than those identified herein. Rather, the described features and steps are disclosed as examples of components of systems and methods within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A power tool, the power tool comprising a working part, a motor for driving the working part, a power source, and at least one sensor, the at least one sensor being coupled to a controller for detecting one or more parameters of the power source of the tool or the motor of the power tool, the controller being configured to generate an output signal, Among them, the output signal including an audible output.

2. A device for an electric power tool, the device comprising: a controller for detecting one or more parameters of the power source of the tool or the motor of the power tool via at least one sensor coupled to the power source of the power tool or the motor of the power tool; wherein the controller is configured to generate an output signal, wherein the output signal includes an audible output.

3. The device according to claim 2, wherein, The device is a safety device.

4. A non-transitory computer-readable medium that includes instructions for controlling an electric power tool to emit an audible output, wherein, These instructions are configured to cause at least one processor of the power tool to be configured for: detecting one or more parameters of the power source of the power tool or the motor of the power tool via at least one sensor coupled to the power source of the power tool or the motor of the power tool; generating an output signal, wherein the output signal includes an audible output.

5. The power tool according to claim 1, or the device according to claim 2 or 3, or the non-transitory computer-readable medium according to claim 4, wherein, The one or more parameters are operating parameters of the power source or the power tool.

6. The power tool according to claim 1 or 5, or the device according to claim 2, 3 or 5, or the non-transitory computer-readable medium according to claim 4 or 5, wherein, The power tool includes at least one sound-emitting device, and wherein the controller is configured to generate an output signal by controlling the at least one sound-emitting device to emit the audible output.

7. The power tool according to any one of claims 1, 5 or 6, or the device according to any one of claims 2, 3, 5 or 6, or the non-transitory computer-readable medium according to any one of claims 4, 5 or 6, wherein, The audible output includes: a first sound in a first operating mode if one or more operating parameters detected by at least one sensor satisfy a first predetermined threshold of the parameter; and a second sound in a second operating mode if one or more operating parameters detected by the at least one sensor satisfy a second, preferably different, predetermined threshold of the parameter, wherein the second sound is different from the first sound.

8. The power tool according to any one of claims 1 and 5 to 7, or the device according to any one of claims 2, 3 and 5 to 7, or the non-transitory computer-readable medium according to any one of claims 4 to 7, wherein, The controller is configured to activate the output signal to emit the audible output by activating at least one sound-emitting device.

9. The power tool according to any one of claims 1 and 5 to 8, or the device according to any one of claims 2, 3 and 5 to 8, or the non-transitory computer-readable medium according to any one of claims 4 to 8, wherein, The operating parameters of the tool detected by the at least one sensor are selected from the group including: the voltage of the power source; the current drawn by the motor; the current supplied by the power source; the temperature of the motor, the temperature of the battery, the temperature of the controller, and the operating speed of the motor.

10. The power tool, device, or non-transitory computer-readable medium according to any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein, Once the one or more operating parameters satisfy the second predetermined threshold, the second sound is emitted for a predetermined duration, and then, if the one or more operating parameters still satisfy the second predetermined threshold, the controller switches the tool to a non-operating state.

11. The power tool, device, or non-transitory computer-readable medium according to any one of claims 7 to 10, wherein, If the one or more operating parameters satisfy the first predetermined threshold but do not satisfy the second predetermined threshold, the first sound is emitted by the sound-emitting device for a first predetermined time.

12. The power tool, device or non-transitory computer-readable medium according to any one of claims 7 to 11, wherein, One or more of the timbre, frequency, loudness, or type of the first sound emitted by the sound-emitting device is different from the corresponding timbre, frequency, pitch, volume, or type of the second sound emitted by the sound-emitting device.

Images