Electric appliance device, electric appliance, and method for identifying the presence of a battery pack

Abstract

The invention relates to an electric tool device, in particular an electric machine tool device, for detecting the presence of a battery pack (14a; 14b; 14c; 14d; 14e), comprising at least one detection unit (26a; 26b; 26c; 26d; 26e) for detecting the battery pack (14a; 14b; 14c; 14d; 14e) in an interface area (28a, 28b, 28c, 28d, 28e) and activating an external circuit (30a; 30b; 30c; 30d; 30e) in response to the presence of the battery pack (14a; 14b; 14c; 14d; 14e). The present invention proposes that the detection unit (26a; 26b; 26c; 26d; 26e) includes at least one switching element (34a; 34b; 34c; 34d; 34e), in particular an electromechanical one, and a reset unit (36a; 36b; 36c; 36d; 36e) coupled to the switching element (34a; 34b; 34c; 34d; 34e), the reset unit being constructed to reset at least one function of the detection unit (26a; 26b; 26c; 26d; 26e).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an electric device device, in particular an electric machine tool device, and an electric device, in particular an electric machine tool, having the electric device device. Furthermore, the present invention relates to an electric device system, in particular an electric tool system, having the electric device, and a method for detecting the presence of a battery pack using the electric device device. Background Art

[0002] An electric appliance device for detecting the presence of a battery pack has been proposed, which device has at least one detection unit for detecting the battery pack in the interface region and activating an external circuit in dependence on the presence of the battery pack. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The present invention is based on an electric device device, in particular an electric machine tool device, for detecting the presence of a battery pack, which device has at least one detection unit for detecting the battery pack in the interface region and activating an external circuit depending on the presence of the battery pack.

[0004] The invention proposes that the detection unit comprises at least one, in particular electromechanical, switching element and a reset unit coupled to the switching element, which is designed to reset at least one function of the detection unit.

[0005] "Configured for" should be understood, in particular, to mean specifically programmed, specifically designed, and / or specifically equipped. "An object configured for a specific function" should be understood, in particular, to mean that the object fulfills and / or performs the specific function in at least one usage and / or operating state. The electric appliance device is preferably configured to detect the presence of a battery pack by detecting the battery pack in an interface area. Preferably, the electric appliance device is configured as part of the electric appliance. The electric appliance particularly includes at least one interface for electrical and / or mechanical connection to the battery pack. Preferably, the electric appliance is configured as an electric machine tool, a lighting fixture, a measuring instrument, a vacuum cleaner, etc. Preferably, the battery pack is configured to be connected to the electric appliance, in particular for supplying power to at least one function of the electric appliance. Preferably, the interface area is configured as an area at least partially enclosed by the interface, in which the battery pack is disposed when connected to the interface. The interface particularly includes at least one electrical contact element for electrically connecting the battery pack to the electric appliance. Preferably, the external circuit is configured as part of the electric appliance. However, it is also conceivable for the external circuit to be disposed, in particular, at least partially spaced apart from the electric appliance. For example, the external circuit is designed as a wake-up circuit, which is designed to prepare the electric appliance for operation with a battery pack. It is conceivable that the external circuit is designed as a communication unit, such as, in particular, a W-LAN interface, a Bluetooth interface, and / or an RFID interface, which is particularly designed to be activated by the electric appliance device when a battery pack is present. "A detection unit is configured to activate the external circuit based on the presence of a battery pack" should be understood to mean that the detection unit is configured to activate the external circuit based on detection of a battery pack in the interface area, detection of the absence of a battery pack, detection of insertion or connection of a battery pack in the interface area, and / or detection of removal or disconnection of a battery pack from the interface area.

[0006] Preferably, the switching element is arranged at an interface, in particular at the interface area. The switching element is particularly designed to interact with the battery pack, in particular when the battery pack is inserted into and / or removed from the interface area. Particularly preferably, the switching element is designed to switch in interaction with the battery pack for detecting the battery pack. Preferably, the detection unit is designed to detect the battery pack independently of the configuration, in particular electrical and / or electronic, of the battery pack in the interface area. "The reset unit is coupled to the switching element" should be understood to mean that the reset unit and the switching element interact, in particular mechanically or electrically, in at least one operating state of the electric appliance device. Preferably, the switching element is electrically connected to the reset unit. The switching element particularly has at least two switching states, wherein in exactly one switching state, the switching element connects its switching contact to the reset unit. The switching element particularly has two switching contacts, each of which is particularly connected to at least one signal output of the switching element. However, it is also conceivable for the switching element to have only one switching contact, for example, when the switching element is configured as a one-way switch. The detection unit, in particular the switching element, is preferably designed such that the battery pack is detected, in particular by means of the switching element, independently of the electrical connection between the battery pack and the electric appliance, in particular the interface.

[0007] Preferably, the detection unit has at least one ready state and at least one triggered state, wherein the detection unit is configured to activate, in particular at least temporarily, the external circuit at least when transitioning from the ready state to the triggered state. For example, the detection unit's function is configured to activate the external circuit. The reset unit is configured to reset the detection unit from the triggered state to the ready state, in particular to further activate the external circuit when the battery pack is detected again. The reset unit is configured to reset the detection unit's function when or after the battery pack is removed from the interface area. Particularly preferably, the switching element is configured to be actuated or switched when the battery pack is connected or interacting with the battery pack, in particular to activate the external circuit, in particular, in which case the detection unit transitions from the ready state to the triggered state. The switching element is configured to be actuated or switched when the battery pack is removed or released from the switching element, in particular to reset the detection unit with the help of the reset unit, in particular, in which case the detection unit transitions from the triggered state to the ready state. Preferably, the switching element is designed to be switched during connection and disconnection of the battery pack to the electric appliance, in particular to the interface, independently of individual and / or direct actuation of the switching element by a user. Particularly preferably, the switching element is arranged on the interface such that the switching element is actuated when the battery pack is removed when the electrical connection to the battery pack, in particular to the interface of the battery pack, is completely disconnected.

[0008] The embodiment of the electric appliance device according to the present invention allows for an advantageously quick and simple resetting of the detection unit, in particular for further testing of the battery pack or activation of an external unit. The detection unit can be advantageously reset directly upon detection of the battery pack or the presence of a battery pack in the interface area. This advantageously allows for a quick resetting of the detection unit. This advantageously enables reliable activation of the external circuit during rapid battery pack replacement.

[0009] It is further proposed that the reset unit include a base potential. This advantageously enables safe and rapid discharge of the detection unit. This advantageously enables a simple and cost-effective design of the reset unit. "Base potential" is to be understood in particular as a reference potential of a component or appliance, which is used for all signal voltages and / or operating voltages of said component or appliance. The base potential is in particular designed as part of the electric appliance. It is conceivable that the base potential of the electronic appliance is designed as ground. Preferably, the base potential is electrically connected to the switching element.

[0010] Furthermore, it is proposed that the switching element, in particular an electromechanical switching element, is designed to mechanically interact with the battery pack for detecting the battery pack and resetting the functionality of the detection unit. This advantageously allows the electric appliance to have a high degree of flexibility with respect to compatibility with different types of battery packs, in particular old battery packs, because the battery pack can be detected by actuating the switching element independently of the battery pack configuration. This allows for an advantageously simple and cost-effective design of the detection unit, in particular the switching element. This advantageously enables the presence of the battery pack to be detected even when the battery pack is not discharged and / or when the battery pack is discharged at an advantageously low or short rate. Preferably, the switching element is at least partially configured within the interface region, in particular when the battery pack is not present. Preferably, the switching element is at least partially movably mounted. In particular, the switching element is configured to be at least partially moved out of the interface region when interacting with the battery pack, wherein the switching element is in particular switched. Preferably, the interface has at least one connection direction, wherein the battery pack is in particular configured to be connected to the interface by movement along the connection direction. Preferably, the switching element, in particular an electromechanical switching element, includes at least one contact surface configured to interact with a battery pack. The contact surface is preferably arranged in the interface region, in particular when no battery pack is present. In particular, the contact surface is at least partially oriented at an angle relative to the connection direction of the interface. In particular, the contact surface is configured as a flat or at least partially curved surface. The contact surface is preferably oriented such that the angle between the contact surface and the connection direction corresponds to a value within a range of values, in particular, between 8° and 82°, advantageously between 15° and 75°, preferably between 20° and 65°, and particularly preferably between 25° and 55°. The switching element is preferably configured to be mechanically actuated by the battery pack for testing, in particular when the battery pack is connected to the interface. The switching element is preferably configured to be actuated when the battery pack is removed, in particular when the battery pack is disconnected from the interface. It is conceivable that the switching element, in particular a movably mounted portion of the switching element, is spring-loaded, wherein in particular a restoring force causes the switching element to switch when the battery pack is removed. In particular, the shift element rests against the housing of the battery pack, in particular via the contact surface, due to the restoring force when the battery pack is removed.

[0011] It is further proposed that the detection unit is configured to activate an external circuit by means of an electrical signal, in particular a current or voltage, via a switching element, in particular an electromechanical element. This allows for an advantageously simple and cost-effective design of the detection unit, in particular independent of electronic signal processing. Advantageously, this allows for direct and rapid activation of the external circuit. The detection unit is in particular configured to transmit an electrical signal from at least one energy storage cell of the battery pack to the external circuit. However, it is also conceivable for the detection unit to include the energy storage cell. Preferably, the detection unit, in particular its electrical circuit, is directly electrically connected to the external circuit. Preferably, the switching element is configured to conduct the electrical signal to the external circuit. Particularly preferably, the electrical circuit includes at least one activation element, in particular directly electrically connected to the external circuit. Preferably, the activation element is configured to be switched in response to the electrical signal to activate the external circuit. For example, the activation element is configured as a transistor, in particular a bipolar transistor, a field-effect transistor, or the like, or as another electrically controllable activation element.

[0012] Furthermore, it is proposed that the switching element be designed as a microswitch. This allows for an advantageously simple and cost-effective design, in particular because serial components can be used as the switching element. This allows for an advantageously high level of reliability during battery pack testing, in particular because an advantageously short switching path can be achieved. Preferably, the switching element is designed as a changeover switch, wherein a movably mounted region of the switching element switches one of two different connection paths, in particular depending on its position.

[0013] It is further proposed that the switching element be configured as a reed switch. This advantageously reduces wear on the switching element, particularly because the switching element can be configured independently of mechanical contact with the battery pack. This advantageously allows for rapid detection of the battery pack. This advantageously allows for low sensitivity of the switching element to dirt and dust. Preferably, the switching element is configured to detect at least one magnetic field of a component of the battery pack when the battery pack is connected to the interface and to switch when a limit value of the magnetic field is exceeded. It is conceivable that the battery pack has at least one magnetic element on an outer wall of the battery pack housing, which is configured to interact with the switching element configured as a reed switch. The magnetic element is particularly configured to switch the switching element configured as a reed switch by means of a magnetic field when the battery pack is connected to the interface. Preferably, the switching element configured as a reed switch is configured to switch when the magnetic field decays, particularly when the battery pack, particularly the magnetic element, is removed from the interface area.

[0014] It is further proposed that the detection unit is designed so that current flows through the, in particular, electromechanical switching element only when a battery pack is connected and / or removed. This can advantageously prevent the energy storage device from being constantly discharged by the detection unit. This can achieve advantageously low energy consumption of the electric appliance device. In particular, the switching element is designed to be at least essentially currentless in a static switching state, in particular in an operating state that differs from a switching state transition. "Essentially currentless" is to be understood in particular as meaning that no directional current flows through the component, in particular the switching element. Preferably, the switching element is designed to apply a potential to at least one component of the detection unit during the switching process, in particular when a battery pack is connected and / or removed, the potential being applied or transmitted to the switching element in particular via the battery pack or an energy storage unit external to the battery pack.

[0015] Furthermore, it is proposed that the detection unit includes at least one circuit, in particular the aforementioned circuit, having at least one capacitor element, wherein the in particular electromechanical switching element is configured to connect the capacitor element to a reset unit during at least one switching process in order to reset the function of the detection unit. This allows for an advantageously simple and cost-effective design of the detection unit, in particular the circuit. This allows for advantageously low operating current, standby current, and / or leakage current, in particular from the battery pack. This enables advantageously low current consumption. This allows for advantageously simple and rapid resetting of the detection unit, in particular within a time period of less than 100 ms. The capacitor element is in particular configured as an electrical component having capacitance. Particularly preferably, the capacitor element acts as a capacitor in the circuit of the electric appliance device. The circuit of the detection unit is preferably configured to activate an external circuit depending on the switching state of the switching element. The switching element is in particular configured as part of the circuit. The switching element is preferably configured to connect the capacitor element in at least one switching state, in particular during another switching process, to an energy storage unit, in particular a battery pack, or the detection unit, in order to activate the external circuit, in particular charging the capacitor element. Particularly preferably, the reset unit is designed to discharge the capacitor element via the switching element during a switching process, wherein in particular the functionality of the detection unit is reset.

[0016] Furthermore, it is proposed that the detection unit include at least one microcontroller configured to control activation of the external circuit and / or resetting of the detection unit based on the switching state of the switching element, in particular one of the aforementioned switching states. This enables advantageously precise control of functions, in particular activation of the external unit and / or resetting of the detection unit. This advantageously allows the integration of the electric appliance device into the electronic circuit. It also advantageously enables monitoring of at least one function of the detection unit. The detection unit can advantageously be controlled externally from the circuit. It is conceivable that the microcontroller is configured as part of the electronic unit of the electric appliance. Preferably, the microcontroller is electrically connected, preferably directly connected, to the circuit and / or switching elements of the detection unit.

[0017] It is further proposed that the detection unit include at least one energy storage cell designed independently of the battery pack, and that the electromechanical switching element, in particular, be designed to connect the external circuit to the energy storage cell for activation upon detection of the battery pack and / or upon detection of the absence of a battery. This enables the functionality of the electric appliance device to be independent of the charge state of the battery pack. This advantageously enables activation of the external circuit or detection of the battery pack independently of the electrical connection between the battery pack and the interface. This advantageously prevents discharge of the battery pack through the electric appliance device. The switching element is particularly designed to connect the external circuit to the energy storage cell for activation based on the presence of the battery pack. The detection unit is preferably designed such that activation of the external circuit occurs independently of the energy storage of the battery pack via the energy storage cell. The detection unit is preferably designed to be electrically isolated from the electrical contact elements of the interface. The switching element is preferably arranged spaced apart from the electrical contact elements. The electric appliance device, in particular the detection unit, is preferably designed to be decoupled from the electrical contact elements of the interface. It is conceivable that the switching element is configured to connect the external circuit to the energy storage unit to activate the external unit upon detection of a battery pack, in particular upon connection of the battery pack to the electric appliance, in particular an interface. The reset unit is particularly configured to reset the detection unit, in particular the functionality of the detection unit, upon removal of the battery pack from the electric appliance, in particular an interface or an interface region. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the switching element is configured to connect the external circuit to the energy storage unit to activate the external unit upon detection of the absence of a battery pack, in particular upon separation of the battery pack from the electric appliance, in particular an interface. In particular, in this alternative embodiment, the reset unit is configured to reset the detection unit, in particular the functionality of the detection unit, upon detection of a battery pack at the electric appliance, in particular an interface or an interface region, for example upon insertion, in particular reinsertion, of the battery pack.

[0018] Furthermore, an electric device, in particular an electric machine tool, as described above, is proposed, which comprises at least one electric device arrangement according to the invention.

[0019] The embodiment of the electric appliance according to the invention allows for an advantageously quick and simple resetting of the test unit, in particular for further testing of the battery pack or activation of the external unit. This advantageously enables reliable activation of the external circuit during a rapid replacement of the battery pack.

[0020] Additionally, an electric device system, in particular an electric machine tool system, is proposed, which comprises at least one, in particular the above-described electric device according to the invention, in particular an electric machine tool, and at least one, in particular the above-described battery pack for electrical connection at least to the electric device.

[0021] The embodiment of the electric appliance system according to the invention allows for an advantageously quick and simple resetting of the test unit, in particular for further testing of the battery pack or activation of the external unit. This advantageously enables reliable activation of the external circuit during a rapid replacement of the battery pack.

[0022] Furthermore, a method is proposed for detecting the presence of a battery pack using at least one electric appliance device according to the invention.

[0023] The embodiment of the method according to the invention allows an advantageously quick and simple resetting of the test unit, in particular for further testing of the battery pack or activation of the external unit. This advantageously enables reliable activation of the external circuit during a rapid replacement of the battery pack.

[0024] The electric device arrangement according to the present invention, the electric device according to the present invention, and / or the method according to the present invention are not limited to the applications and embodiments described above. In particular, the electric device arrangement according to the present invention, the electric device according to the present invention, and / or the method according to the present invention may have a number of elements, components, units, and method steps that differs from the number mentioned herein in order to fulfill the operating mode described herein. Furthermore, within the numerical ranges given in this disclosure, values ​​within the stated limits are also to be considered disclosed and freely usable. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0025] Further advantages are apparent from the following description of the drawings. The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the invention. The drawings, the description, and the claims contain features that are combined in many ways. A person skilled in the art can also expediently consider these features individually and combine them into other meaningful combinations.

[0026] The accompanying drawings show:

[0027] Figure 1 Schematic diagram of an electric appliance system according to the invention comprising an electric appliance according to the invention and a battery pack, wherein the electric appliance comprises an electric appliance device according to the invention for detecting the presence of a battery pack,

[0028] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of an electric appliance device according to the invention having an electromechanical switching element designed as a microswitch,

[0029] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of an exemplary sequence of the method according to the invention for detecting the presence of a battery pack by means of an electric appliance device according to the invention,

[0030] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of an electric appliance device according to the invention with an alternative embodiment of an electromechanical switching element,

[0031] Figure 5 Schematic diagram of an alternative embodiment of the electric appliance device according to the invention with a switching element designed as a reed switch,

[0032] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of another alternative embodiment of an electric appliance device according to the present invention, comprising a microprocessor of a detection unit of the electric appliance device for activating an external circuit or resetting the detection unit, and

[0033] Figure 7 According to a circuit diagram of another alternative embodiment of the electric device device according to the invention, the electric device device has a switching element with switching contacts. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] exist Figure 1, an electric device system 10a is shown having an electric device 12a configured as a handheld electric power tool and a battery pack 14a. The electric device 12a is configured as a screwdriver. The electric device system 10a is particularly configured as an electric tool system. However, other configurations of the electric device system 10a and / or the electric device 12a are also conceivable, such as a lamp, a vacuum device, a measuring instrument, etc. The battery pack 14a is configured for electrical and mechanical connection to the electric device 12a. The electric device 12a includes an interface 16a for electrical and mechanical connection to the battery pack 14a. The electric device 12a particularly includes at least one fastening element 18a for a non-positive and positive connection to the battery pack 14a. The interface 16a is preferably configured as an insertion system having at least one guide 19a and at least two electrical contact elements 20a, wherein the battery pack 14a is partially inserted into the guide 19a, particularly by movement in a connection direction 22a. However, other configurations of the interface 16a are also contemplated. The battery pack 14a is configured to be electrically connected to the electric appliance 12a via an electrical contact element 20a. The electric appliance 12a includes an electric appliance device 24a for detecting the presence of the battery pack 14a. The electric appliance device 24a includes a detection unit 26a for detecting the battery pack 14a in an interface region 28a of the interface 16a and activating an external circuit 30a of the electric appliance 12a based on the presence of the battery pack 14a. The electric appliance device 24a is configured to determine the presence of the battery pack 14a by detecting the battery pack 14a in the interface region 28a. The external circuit 30a is configured as a wake-up circuit for preparing at least one function of the electric appliance 12a for operation with the battery pack 14a, wherein the function is configured as a wireless radio connection to at least one external unit 32a, such as a server or another electric appliance 12a.

[0035] exist Figure 2, a schematic diagram of an electric device device 24a is shown, wherein the components of the electric device device 24a are shown, in particular, as a circuit diagram. A detection unit 26a includes an electromechanical switching element 34a configured as a microswitch and a reset unit 36a coupled to the switching element 34a. The reset unit 36a is configured to reset at least one function of the detection unit 26a. The switching element 34a has two switching contacts, each of which is connected to a signal output 38a of the switching element 34a. The detection unit 26a is configured to activate the external circuit 30a via the switching element 34a using an electrical signal, in particular a voltage or a current. The detection unit 26a has at least one ready state and at least one triggered state, wherein the detection unit 26a is configured to activate the external circuit 30a, in particular at least temporarily, at least when transitioning from the ready state to the triggered state. The function of the detection unit 26a with respect to resetting by the reset unit 36a is configured as activation of the external circuit 30a. Preferably, further, in particular future, activation of the external circuit 30a by the detection unit 26a can be achieved, in particular immediately, by means of the reset unit 36a when the detection unit 26a is reset. The reset unit 36a is designed to reset the detection unit 26a from the triggered state to the ready state for further activation of the external circuit 30a, in particular for further testing of the battery pack 14a. The switching element 34a is designed to be actuated or switched when the battery pack 14a is connected or when interacting with the battery pack 14a, in particular for activating the external circuit 30a, wherein the detection unit 26a is switched from the ready state to the triggered state. The switching element 34a is designed to be actuated or switched when the battery pack 14a is removed or released from the switching element 34a, in particular for resetting the detection unit 26a by means of the reset unit 36a, wherein the detection unit 26a is switched from the triggered state to the ready state.

[0036] Alternatively, it is also conceivable that the switching element 34a is constructed to be actuated when the battery pack 14a is removed, in order to activate the external circuit 30a, and to be switched by the battery pack 14a when the battery pack 14a or another battery pack 14a is detected or inserted, in order to reset the detection unit 26a by means of the reset unit 36a, wherein the detection unit 26a is switched in particular from the triggered state to the ready state.

[0037] Switching element 34a is arranged at interface 16a, in particular at interface region 28a. Switching element 34a is designed to interact with battery pack 14a, in particular when battery pack 14a is inserted into interface region 28a. Switching element 34a is designed to be switched by mechanical interaction with battery pack 14a for detecting battery pack 14a. Detection unit 26a is preferably designed to detect battery pack 14a independently of its configuration, in particular its electrical and / or electronic configuration, in interface region 28a. Switching element 34a is designed to interact mechanically with battery pack 14a for detecting battery pack 14a and for resetting the functionality of detection unit 26a.

[0038] In particular, when the battery pack 14a is not present, the switching element 34a is at least partially configured within the interface region 28a. The switching element 34a is at least partially movably mounted and configured to at least partially move out of the interface region 28a when interacting with the battery pack 14a, wherein in particular, the switching element 34a is switched. The switching element 34a includes a contact surface 40a, which is configured to interact with the battery pack 14a. The contact surface 40a is arranged within the interface region 28a, in particular when the battery pack 14a is not present. The contact surface 40a is at least partially oriented at an angle relative to the connection direction 22a of the interface 16a. The contact surface 40a is configured as a curved surface. However, other configurations of the contact surface 40a are also conceivable, such as a flat surface. The contact surface 40a is at least partially oriented such that an angle 42a between the contact surface 40a and the connection direction 22a corresponds to a value within a range of values, in particular, between 8° and 82°, advantageously between 15° and 75°, preferably between 20° and 65°, and particularly preferably between 25° and 55°. The switching element 34a is configured to detect the battery pack 14a, is mechanically actuated by the battery pack 14a, in particular when the battery pack 14a is connected to the interface 16a, and is actuated when the battery pack 14a is removed, in particular when the battery pack 14a is disconnected from the interface 16a. The switching element 34a, in particular the movably mounted portion 44a of the switching element 34a, is spring-loaded, wherein a restoring force, in particular, causes the switching element 34a to switch when the battery pack 14a is removed. The movably mounted portion 44a of the switching element 34a is configured as a lever that is at least partially, in particular, at least predominantly, constructed from an elastic material, in particular, metal. In particular, the switching element 34a rests against the housing 46a of the battery pack 14a due to a restoring force, in particular via the contact surface 40a , during the connected state of the battery pack 14a and / or when the battery pack 14a is removed.

[0039] Detection unit 26a includes a circuit 48a having a capacitor element 50a and two resistor elements 52a, 54a. Resistor elements 52a, 54a each have a resistor. Other configurations of circuit 48a are also conceivable, in particular, one having a different number of resistor elements 52a, 54a. Switching element 34a is configured to connect capacitor element 50a to reset unit 36a during at least one switching process to reset the function of detection unit 26a. Reset unit 36a includes a base potential 56a, which is in particular configured as part of electric device 12a. Switching element 34a is electrically connected to reset unit 36a, in particular to base potential 56a. Resistor elements 52a, 54a and capacitor element 50a are connected in series and to switching element 34a, in particular, signal output 38a of switching element 34a. Of the two resistor elements 52a, 54a, resistor element 52a, particularly the one situated between capacitor element 50a and switching element 34a, has a lower resistance than the other resistor element 54a, particularly the one situated downstream of capacitor element 50a. A configuration of circuit 48a having only one resistor element 52a, 54a is preferred, for example, only resistor element 52a, situated particularly between capacitor element 50a and switching element 34a. Switching element 34a has two switching states, wherein in precisely one switching state, switching element 34a connects signal output 38a of switching element 34a to reset unit 36a, particularly base potential 56a. Detection unit 26a, particularly switching element 34a, is designed such that detection of battery pack 14a can be performed, particularly by means of switching element 34a, independently of the electrical connection between battery pack 14a and electric appliance 12a, particularly interface 16a. At least one signal output 38a of switching element 34a is electrically connected to electrical contact element 20a, in particular, interface 16a, which is configured to electrically connect to energy storage cell 58a of battery pack 14a. Detection unit 26a, in particular, circuit 48a of detection unit 26a, is directly electrically connected to external circuit 30a. Switching element 34a is configured to conduct an electrical signal to external circuit 30a. Circuit 48a of detection unit 26a includes an activation element 60a configured as a bipolar transistor, in particular, which is directly electrically connected to external circuit 30a. Activation element 60a is configured to be switched in response to an electrical signal to activate external circuit 30a. Other configurations of activation element 60a are also contemplated, such as a field-effect transistor or other electrically controllable activation element, in particular, other than a transistor. Activation element 60a is directly electrically connected to one of the two resistor elements 52a, 54a. The detection unit 26a is designed in such a way that current flows through the, in particular, electromechanical switching element 34a only when the battery pack 14a is connected and removed.

[0040] If the switching element 34a is actuated when the battery pack 14a is connected to the electric device 12a, in particular the interface 16a, the switching element 34a is switched from one switching state, in particular Figure 2 The switching state shown in is switched to another switching state, in which the capacitor element 50a is connected to the energy storage unit 58a via the switching element 34a. The capacitor element 50a is charged with the energy storage unit 58a when the switching element 34a is switched or shortly after the switching element 34a is switched. By charging the capacitor element 50a, the activation element 60a is switched and is in particular conductive within the external circuit 30a. The external circuit 30a is activated by switching the activation element 60a. If the switching element 34a is actuated when the battery pack 14a is separated from the electric appliance 12a, in particular the interface 16a, the switching element 34a is switched back to the state in which the battery pack 14a is disconnected from the electric appliance 12a, in particular the interface 16a. Figure 2 . During the transition to the switching state, capacitor element 50a is connected to reset unit 36a, in particular base potential 56a, and discharges. While capacitor element 50a is discharging, activation element 60a is impermeably connected within external circuit 30a. Capacitor element 50a is discharged by reset unit 36a, preferably in less than 100 ms. The discharge of capacitor element 50a resets detection unit 26a for further testing of battery pack 14a or for further activation of external circuit 30a.

[0041] Alternatively, it is also conceivable that the detection unit 26a includes at least one energy storage unit 58a that is designed independently of the battery pack 14a, wherein the switching element 34a is designed to connect the external circuit 30a to the energy storage unit 58a for activation upon detection of the battery pack 14a. It is conceivable that the energy storage unit 58a, which is designed independently of the battery pack 14a, is designed as part of the electric device 12a, in particular the electric device arrangement 24a, for example as a battery as an integrated battery, and / or as a capacitor, in particular with a capacitance dimensioned sufficiently large for multiple activations of the external circuit 30a. In this alternative embodiment, the detection unit 26a is preferably designed to be electrically isolated from the electrical contact element 20a of the interface 16a. In this alternative embodiment, the switching element 34a is preferably arranged spaced apart from the electrical contact element 20a. For example, the switching element 34a is arranged at an input opening of the guide 19a of the interface 16a, in particular to activate the external circuit 30a before the battery pack 14a is electrically connected to the electrical contact element 20a. In this alternative embodiment, the electric device device 24a , in particular the detection unit 26a , is preferably designed to be decoupled from the electrical contact element 20a of the interface 16a .

[0042] exist Figure 31 shows an exemplary sequence of a method 100a for detecting the presence of a battery pack 14a using an electric appliance device 24a. In at least one method step 102a of method 100a, when battery pack 14a is connected to interface 16a, switching element 34a is mechanically actuated by battery pack 14a and switched from one switching state to another switching state. In at least one further method step 104a of method 100a, capacitor element 50a is charged via switching element 34a using energy storage unit 58a, and activation element 60a is activated to activate external circuit 30a. In at least one further method step 106a of method 100a, when battery pack 14a is removed, switching element 34a is actuated and switched from another, in particular, actuated, switching state back to an in particular non-actuated switching state, wherein capacitor element 50a is connected in particular to reset unit 36a, in particular to base potential 56a. Capacitor element 50a is discharged, in particular, via switching element 34a and reset unit 36a, in particular base potential 56a, wherein detection unit 26a is reset for further detection of battery pack 14a and further activation of external circuit 30a.

[0043] exist Figures 4 to 6 The following description and drawings are essentially limited to the differences between the embodiments, wherein, with respect to identically labeled components, in particular with respect to components having the same reference numerals, reference can in principle also be made to the drawings and / or description of the other embodiments, in particular Figures 1 to 3 To distinguish these embodiments, the letter a is placed in Figures 1 to 3 After the reference numerals of the embodiments in FIG. Figures 4 to 6 In the embodiment of FIG. 1 , the letter a is replaced by letters b to e.

[0044] exist Figure 4 shows an alternative embodiment of the electric appliance device 24b in the region of the switching element 34b of the detection unit 26b of the electric appliance device 24b. The electric appliance device 24b comprises a detection unit 26b for detecting the battery pack 14b in the interface region 28b of the interface 16b and activating the external circuit 30b in dependence on the presence of the battery pack 14b. The detection unit 26b comprises an electromechanical switching element 34b and a reset unit 36b coupled to the switching element 34b, which is configured to reset at least one function of the detection unit 26b. Figure 4 The electric appliance device 24b shown in FIG has the same Figures 1 to 3 The electric appliance device 24a described in the description of FIG. 2 is at least substantially similar in configuration, so that Figure 4 The configuration of the electric appliance device 24b shown in FIG can be at least substantially referred to Figures 1 to 3 Instructions. Figures 1 to 3Unlike the electric appliance device 24a described in the description of Figure 4 The electromechanical switching element 34b of the electric tool device 24b shown in FIG is preferably designed as an at least partially movable button, which is particularly designed to be spring-loaded. The switching element 34b includes a contact surface 40b designed as a flat surface for mechanical interaction with the battery pack 14b, particularly the housing 46b of the battery pack 14b. The switching element 34b is designed to be moved at least partially out of the interface region 28b via the contact surface 40b when interacting with the battery pack 14b, wherein the switching element 34b is switched, in particular, from one switching state to at least one other switching state for detecting the battery pack 14b or for activating the external circuit 30b.

[0045] exist Figure 5 shows an alternative embodiment of an electric appliance device 24c in the region of a switching element 34c of a detection unit 26c of the electric appliance device 24c. The electric appliance device 24c comprises a detection unit 26c for detecting a battery pack 14c in an interface region 28c of an interface 16c and activating an external circuit 30c in dependence on the presence of the battery pack 14c. The detection unit 26c comprises a switching element 34c and a reset unit 36c coupled to the switching element 34c and configured to reset at least one function of the detection unit 26c. Figure 5 The electric appliance device 24c shown in FIG has the same Figures 1 to 3 The electric appliance device 24a described in the description of FIG. 2 is at least substantially similar in configuration, so that Figure 5 The configuration of the electric appliance device 24c shown in FIG can be at least substantially referred to Figures 1 to 3 Instructions. Figures 1 to 3 Unlike the electric appliance device 24a described in the description of Figure 5The switching element 34c of the electric tool device 24c shown in FIG is preferably configured as a reed switch. The switching element 34c is configured to detect at least one magnetic field of a magnetic component or magnetizable component 62c of the battery pack 14c when the battery pack 14c is connected to the interface 16c and to switch when a limit value of the magnetic field is exceeded. Preferably, the component 62c is arranged on an outer wall of the housing 46c of the battery pack 14c and is configured to interact with the switching element 34c configured as a reed switch. The component 62c is configured to switch the switching element 34c configured as a reed switch by means of a magnetic field when the battery pack 14c is connected to the interface 16c. The switching element 34c configured as a reed switch is preferably configured to switch when the magnetic field decays, in particular when the battery pack 14c, in particular the component 62c, is removed, to reset the detection unit 26c. Particularly preferably, the switching element 34 c embodied as a reed switch is designed to be switched at least substantially contactlessly or without contact, in particular with regard to the mechanical interaction of the switching element 34 c with the battery pack 14 c .

[0046] exist Figure 6 shows another alternative embodiment of an electric appliance device 24d. The electric appliance device 24d includes a detection unit 26d for detecting a battery pack 14d in an interface region 28d of an interface 16d and activating an external circuit 30d based on the presence of the battery pack 14d. The detection unit 26d includes an electromechanical switching element 34d configured as a microswitch and a reset unit 36d coupled to the switching element 34d, which is configured to reset at least one function of the detection unit 26d. Figure 6 The electric appliance device 24d shown in FIG has the same Figures 1 to 3 The electric appliance device 24a described in the description of FIG. 2 is at least substantially similar in configuration, so that Figure 6 The configuration of the electric appliance device 24d shown in FIG can be at least substantially referred to Figures 1 to 3 Instructions. Figures 1 to 3 Unlike the electric appliance device 24a described in the description of Figure 6 The detection unit 26d of the electric appliance device 24d shown in the figure preferably has at least one microcontroller 64d. The microcontroller 64d is configured to control the activation of the external circuit 30d according to the switching state of the switching element 34d. The microcontroller 64d is directly electrically connected to the switching element 34d. The microcontroller 64d is connected to the circuit 48d of the detection unit 26d, in particular the capacitor element 50d of the detection unit 26d, via a further switching element 66d configured as a bipolar transistor. If the switching element 34d is operated when the battery pack 14d is inserted, the microcontroller 64d sends an output signal to the further switching element 66d, whereby the capacitor element 50d of the circuit 48d is charged via the battery pack 14d. By charging the capacitor element 50d, in particular similar to Figures 1 to 3 In the electric appliance device 24d described in FIG, activation element 60d of detection unit 26d, which is configured as a bipolar transistor, is switched to activate external circuit 30d. Other configurations of activation element 60d are also conceivable, such as a field-effect transistor or other electrically controllable activation element, particularly different from a transistor. If switching element 34d is switched when battery pack 14d is removed, microcontroller 64d applies an output signal to another switching element 66d, thereby switching on the bipolar transistor, particularly in a transparent manner. Another switching element 66d is electrically connected to reset unit 36d, which includes base potential 56d. Another switching element 66d is configured to connect capacitor element 50d to reset unit 36d, particularly base potential 56d, in a transparent state, thereby discharging capacitor element 50d. Detection unit 26d particularly includes a supply element 68d for supplying power to microcontroller 64d. Supply element 68d may be configured, for example, as a battery. It is conceivable that the detection unit 26d includes an energy storage unit 58d that is designed independently of the battery pack 14d, wherein the energy storage unit 58d is particularly designed to supply power to the microcontroller 64d. It is conceivable that the energy storage unit 58d that is designed independently of the battery pack 14d is designed as part of the electric device 12d, particularly the electric device arrangement 24d, for example as a battery as an integrated battery and / or as a capacitor, particularly having a capacitance dimensioned to be sufficiently large for multiple activations of the external circuit 30d. The circuit 48d of the detection unit 26d includes two resistor elements 52d, 54d connected in series with a capacitor element 50d. Of the two resistor elements 52d, 54d, resistor element 52d, which is particularly arranged for switching purposes between the capacitor element 50d and the line 70d to the energy storage unit 58d or the battery pack 14d, has a lower resistance than the other resistor element 54d, which is particularly arranged for switching purposes between the activation element 60d and the capacitor element 50d. A configuration of the circuit 48d having only one resistor element 52d, 54d is conceivable, for example only having a resistor element 52d which is arranged, in particular in terms of circuit technology, between the capacitor element 50d and the line 70d to the energy storage unit 58d or the battery pack 14d. The control signal can preferably be configured as a high level (H-level) or a low level (L-level), by means of which the microcontroller 64d is controlled by means of the switching element 34d. Only one switching contact of the switching element 34d is used in the electric tool device 24d. It is also conceivable that the switching element 34d is configured as a one-way switch. In Figure 6In the embodiment, the switching element 34d is designed as a normally open contact, wherein the switching element 34d switches to a switching contact connected to the microcontroller 64d, in particular when the battery pack 14d is connected. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the switching element 34d is designed as a normally closed contact. In particular, switching element 34d switches to a switching contact that is separate from microcontroller 64d when battery pack 14d is connected. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that microcontroller 64d outputs an electrical signal for switching further switching element 66d only when battery pack 14d is detected and when battery pack 14d is removed. In particular, the electrical signal is output only temporarily when battery pack 14d is detected and when battery pack 14d is removed by microcontroller 64d.

[0047] exist Figure 7 shows another alternative embodiment of an electric appliance device 24e. The electric appliance device 24e includes a detection unit 26e for detecting a battery pack 14e in an interface region 28e of an interface 16e and activating an external circuit 30e based on the presence of the battery pack 14e. The detection unit 26e includes a switching element 34e and a reset unit 36e coupled to the switching element 34e, the reset unit being configured to reset at least one function of the detection unit 26e. Figure 7 The electric appliance device 24e shown in FIG has the same Figures 1 to 3 The electric appliance device 24a described in the description of FIG. 2 is at least substantially similar in configuration, so that Figure 7 The configuration of the electric appliance device 24e shown in FIG can be at least substantially referred to Figures 1 to 3 Instructions. Figures 1 to 3 Unlike the electric appliance device 24a described in the description of Figure 7The switching element 34e of the detection unit 26e of the electric tool device 24e shown in FIG preferably has only one switching contact, which is connected to the signal output 38e of the switching element 34e. The switching element 34e is particularly designed as a one-way switch. The switching element 34e is particularly arranged, in terms of circuit technology, between the capacitor element 50e of the circuit 48e of the detection unit 26e and the reset unit 36e, and between the resistor elements 52e, 54e of the circuit 48e and the reset unit 36e. Of the resistor elements 52e, 54e of the circuit 48e, the resistor element 52e is particularly arranged, in terms of switching technology, between the capacitor element 50e or the switching element 34e and the line 70e to the energy storage unit 58e and / or the battery pack 14e. Of the resistor elements 52e, 54e of the circuit 48e, the other resistor element 54e is particularly arranged, in terms of circuit technology, between the capacitor element 50e and the activation element 60e. However, other configurations of circuit 48e are also conceivable, in particular, including one of the two different numbers of resistor elements 52e, 54e, or no resistor elements 52e, 54e. For example, it is conceivable that circuit 48e includes an additional resistor element, which is arranged, in particular, in terms of switching technology, between switching element 34e and capacitor element 50e or resistor element 52e. Energy storage unit 58e is particularly embodied as part of battery pack 14e. However, it is also conceivable that detection unit 26e includes at least one energy storage unit 58e that is separate from battery pack 14e. Switching element 34e is configured to be switched to a disconnected state when battery pack 14e is connected or detected, in particular by mechanical interaction with battery pack 14e, in particular, the housing of battery pack 14e. In particular, in the disconnected state, when circuit 48e is electrically connected to energy storage unit 58e, capacitor element 50e is charged by energy storage unit 58e, in order to activate external circuit 30e, in particular, via activation element 60e of detection unit 26e. Preferably, switching element 34e switches to its closed state when battery pack 14e is removed. Switching element 34e is designed to connect capacitor element 50e of circuit 48e of detection unit 26e to reset unit 36e, in particular to base potential 56e of reset unit 36e, in the closed state of switching element 34e, in order to discharge capacitor element 50e, wherein detection unit 26e is reset in particular.

Claims

1. An electric appliance device for detecting the presence of a battery pack (14a; 14b; 14c; 14d; 14e), the electric appliance device comprising at least one detection unit (26a; 26b; 26c; 26d; 26e) for detecting the battery pack (14a; 14b; 14c; 14d; 14e) in an interface region (28a; 28b; 28c; 28d; 28e) and activating an external circuit (30a; 30b; 30c; 30d; 30e) in dependence on the presence of the battery pack (14a; 14b; 14c; 14d; 14e), characterized in that The detection unit (26a; 26b; 26c; 26d; 26e) has at least one switching element (34a; 34b; 34c; 34d; 34e) and a reset unit (36a; 36b; 36c; 36d; 36e) coupled to the switching element (34a; 34b; 34c; 34d; 34e), and the reset unit is constructed to reset at least one function of the detection unit (26a; 26b; 26c; 26d; 26e).

2. The electric device according to claim 1, wherein: The reset unit (36a; 36b; 36c; 36d; 36e) includes a base potential (56a; 56b; 56c; 56d; 56e).

3. The electric device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The switching element (34a; 34b; 34d; 34e) is designed to mechanically interact with the battery pack (14a; 14b; 14d; 14e) for detecting the battery pack (14a; 14b; 14d; 14e) and for resetting the function of the detection unit (26a; 26b; 26d; 26e).

4. The electric device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The detection unit (26a; 26b; 26c; 26d; 26e) is configured to activate the external circuit (30a; 30b; 30c; 30d; 30e) by means of an electrical signal via the switching element (34a; 34b; 34c; 34d; 34e).

5. The electric device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The switching element (34a; 34b; 34d) is designed as a microswitch.

6. The electric device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The switching element (34c) is designed as a reed switch.

7. The electric device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The detection unit (26a; 26b; 26c; 26d; 26e) is designed so that current flows through the switching element (34a; 34b; 34c; 34d; 34e) only when the battery pack (14a; 14b; 14c; 14d; 14e) is connected and / or when the battery pack (14a; 14b; 14c; 14d; 14e) is removed.

8. The electric device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The detection unit (26a; 26b; 26c; 26d; 26e) includes at least one circuit (48a; 48b; 48c; 48d; 48e), which has at least one capacitor element (50a; 50b; 50c; 50d; 50e), wherein the switching element (34a; 34b; 34c; 34d; 34e) is constructed to connect the capacitor element (50a; 50b; 50c; 50d; 50e) to the reset unit (36a; 36b; 36c; 36d; 36e) during at least one switching process, so as to reset the function of the detection unit (26a; 26b; 26c; 26d; 26e).

9. The electric device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The detection unit (26d) has at least one microcontroller (64d) which is designed to control activation of the external circuit (30d) and / or resetting of the detection unit (26d) as a function of the switching state of the switching element (34d).

10. The electric device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The detection unit (26a; 26b; 26c; 26d; 26e) includes at least one energy storage unit (58a; 58b; 58c; 58d; 58e) configured independently of the battery pack (14a; 14b; 14c; 14d; 14e), and the switching element (34a; 34b; 34c; 34d; 34e) is configured to connect the external circuit (30a; 30b; 30c; 30d; 30e) to the energy storage unit (58a; 58b; 58c; 58d; 58e) for activation when the battery pack (14a; 14b; 14c; 14d; 14e) is detected and / or when the battery pack (14a; 14b; 14c; 14d; 14e) is detected to be absent.

11. The electric device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The electric tool device is designed as an electric machine tool device.

12. The electric device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The shift element is an electromechanical shift element.

13. An electrically powered appliance comprising at least one electrically powered appliance arrangement (24a; 24b; 24c; 24d; 24e) according to any one of the preceding claims.

14. The electric device according to claim 13, wherein: The electric appliance is an electric machine tool.

15. An electric appliance system comprising at least one electric appliance (12a; 12b; 12c; 12d; 12e) according to claim 13 or 14, and comprising at least one battery pack (14a; 14b; 14c; 14d; 14e) for being electrically connected to at least the electric appliance (12a; 12b; 12c; 12d; 12e).

16. The electric appliance system according to claim 15, wherein: The electric appliance system is an electric tool system.

17. Method for detecting the presence of a battery pack (14a; 14b; 14c; 14d; 14e) by means of at least one electric appliance device (24a; 24b; 24c; 24d; 24e) according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

Images