Power tool system, power tool device, and camera device

Abstract

An object of the present application is to provide a power tool system in which each of a power tool device and a camera device can be replaced individually. The power tool system (1) includes a power tool device (2) and a camera device (3). The power tool device (2) includes a driving unit (21) and a power tool communication unit (22). The driving unit (21) performs a tightening work for tightening a tightening member to a work object. The power tool communication unit (22) communicates with an outside. The camera device (3) includes a fixing unit (31), an imaging unit (32), and a camera communication unit (33). The fixing unit (31) is detachably attached to the power tool device (2). The imaging unit (32) captures an image of at least the work object. The camera communication unit (33) communicates with the outside.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention generally relates to power tool systems, power tool assemblies, and camera devices. More particularly, this invention relates to power tool systems, power tool assemblies, and camera devices for tightening components to a workpiece. Background Technology

[0002] Patent document 1 discloses a tool system. This tool system includes a portable tool and a designation unit. The tool has a camera unit for generating captured images, and the designation unit designates the work object to which the tool is located in a non-contact manner based on the captured images.

[0003] The tool (power tool device) described in Patent Document 1 includes a camera unit (camera device). Typically, the lifespan of the tool is shorter than that of the camera unit. Therefore, when the tool reaches the end of its lifespan and can no longer be used, the following problem arises: the camera unit, although not yet at the end of its lifespan, cannot be used effectively.

[0004] Existing technical documents

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-108633 Summary of the Invention

[0007] The object of the present invention is to provide a power tool system that enables the efficient use of power tool devices and camera devices.

[0008] According to one aspect of the present invention, a power tool system includes a power tool device and a camera device. The power tool device has a drive unit and a power tool communication unit. The drive unit performs a tightening operation by using power from a power source to tighten a tightening assembly to a work object. The power tool communication unit communicates with an external source. The camera device has a fixing unit, an image capturing unit, and a camera communication unit. The fixing unit is removably attached to the power tool device. The image capturing unit captures an image of at least the work object. The camera communication unit communicates with an external source.

[0009] According to one aspect of the present invention, a power tool device includes a drive unit, a power tool communication unit, and an attachment unit. The drive unit uses power from a power source to tighten a tightening assembly to a work object. The power tool communication unit communicates with an external source. The attachment unit enables the removable attachment of a camera device for capturing images of at least the work object.

[0010] According to one aspect of the invention, a camera device captures an image of a workpiece being tightened by a tightening assembly using power from a power source via a drive unit of a power tool, and includes a fixing unit and a camera communication unit. The fixing unit is removably attached to the power tool. The camera communication unit communicates with the outside world. Attached Figure Description

[0011] Figure 1 This is a block diagram illustrating a schematic structure of a power tool system according to the first embodiment.

[0012] Figure 2 This is a block diagram illustrating another schematic structure of the same power tool system as described above.

[0013] Figure 3 A is a schematic diagram of a power tool assembly, while Figure 3 B is another schematic diagram of the power tool device.

[0014] Figure 4 This is a sequence diagram illustrating the operation of the same power tool system as described above.

[0015] Figure 5 This is a block diagram illustrating the schematic structure of a power tool system identical to the one described above, based on a variation.

[0016] Figure 6 This is a block diagram illustrating a schematic structure of a power tool system according to the second embodiment.

[0017] Figure 7 This is a sequence diagram illustrating the operation of the same power tool system as described above.

[0018] Figure 8 This is a block diagram illustrating the schematic structure of a power tool system according to the third embodiment.

[0019] Figure 9 This is a sequence diagram illustrating the operation of the same power tool system as described above.

[0020] Figure 10 This is a block diagram illustrating the schematic structure of a power tool system according to the fourth embodiment.

[0021] Figure 11 This is a sequence diagram illustrating the operation of a power tool system according to the fourth embodiment.

[0022] Figure 12 This is a timing diagram illustrating another operation of the same power tool system as described above.

[0023] Figure 13 This is a sequence diagram illustrating another operation of the same power tool system as described above. Detailed Implementation

[0024] (First Embodiment)

[0025] (1-1) Overview

[0026] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 A description of an overview of the power tool system 1 according to an embodiment will be given.

[0027] like Figure 1 As shown, the power tool system 1 according to this embodiment includes a power tool device 2 and a camera device 3. The power tool system 1 in this embodiment is used, for example, in an assembly line for product assembly operations in a factory. The use of the power tool system 1 is not limited to the assembly line described above, and may also be used for other purposes.

[0028] Examples of work objects to be worked on using the power tool device 2 include appliances and furniture. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the work object has multiple tightening points, and the operator uses the power tool device 2 to perform tightening operations by tightening each tightening component to the multiple tightening points. Specifically, the tightening device is a screw, bolt, or nut, etc., and each tightening point is a screw hole, etc., to which the tightening device is to be tightened. Figure 3 As shown, this embodiment will be described below assuming that the power tool device 2 has a cylindrical body portion 23 and a grip portion 24 that protrudes radially from the circumferential surface of the body portion 23.

[0029] The power tool device 2 includes a drive unit 21 and a power tool communication unit 22. The drive unit 21 responds to the operator's operation to perform a tightening operation by using power from a power source such as a motor to tighten the tightening components to the work object. The power tool communication unit 22 communicates with the outside to send the operating status of the drive unit 21 to the camera device 3.

[0030] The camera device 3 includes a fixing unit 31, an image capturing unit 32, and a camera communication unit 33. The fixing unit 31 detachably fixes the camera device 3 to the power tool device 2. The image capturing unit 32 captures images of at least the work object. In this embodiment, the image capturing unit 32 captures images of the work object surrounding the tightening area to be tightened. The camera communication unit 33 communicates with the outside to receive information related to the operating status of the drive unit 21 from the power tool communication unit 22.

[0031] In addition, the camera device 3 also has a camera control unit 4, which controls at least one of the imaging unit 32 and the camera communication unit 33. In this embodiment, the camera control unit 4 controls the imaging unit 32 based on the operating state of the drive unit 21 received by the camera communication unit 33, so that the imaging unit 32 generates a captured image.

[0032] Based on the above, in this embodiment, if the power tool device 2 or the camera device 3 can no longer be used due to factors such as the end of its service life or malfunction, the power tool device 2 or the camera device 3 can be replaced respectively. Therefore, the power tool system 1 in this embodiment has the advantage of being able to effectively use the power tool device 2 and the camera device 3.

[0033] (1-2) Details

[0034] refer to Figures 1 to 4 The following is a detailed description of the structure of the power tool system 1 in this embodiment.

[0035] like Figure 1 As shown, the power tool system 1 in this embodiment includes a power tool device 2 and a camera device 3.

[0036] For example, the power tool device 2 is an electric impact wrench and is capable of performing a tightening operation by tightening the tightening components to the workpiece. In this embodiment, the power tool device 2 has a drive unit 21 and a power tool communication unit 22. Alternatively, such as Figure 2 As shown, the power tool device 2 may also have an attachment unit 25, which is used to enable the camera device 3 to be removably attached to capture images of the work object.

[0037] The drive unit 21 can perform tightening operations by using power from a power source to tighten the tightening assembly to the work object. In this embodiment, the drive unit 21 has a motor that serves as a power source and is configured to perform rotational operations using power from the motor. By performing rotational operations, the drive unit 21 can perform operations such as tightening or loosening the tightening assembly. The drive unit 21 outputs an operation status signal A1, indicating the operation status, to the power tool communication unit 22.

[0038] The power tool communication unit 22 is configured to communicate with an external device. The power tool communication unit 22 is a communication module capable of wireless communication via, for example, Bluetooth (registered trademark) or Wi-Fi (registered trademark). In this embodiment, it is assumed that the external device communicating with the power tool communication unit 22 is a device other than the power tool communication unit 22 itself. The power tool communication unit 22 communicates with the camera communication unit 33 and sends an operation status signal A1, indicating the operating state of the drive unit 21, to the camera communication unit 33. Specifically, when the drive unit 21 completes a tightening operation, an operation status signal A1 indicating tightening completion is sent to the camera communication unit 33.

[0039] The fixing unit 31 fixes the camera device 3 to the power tool device 2. In this embodiment, the fixing unit 31 has at least one of the following: an engagement structure for engaging with the power tool device 2, a mutual engagement structure for cooperating with the attachment unit 25 of the power tool device 2, and a holding structure for retaining the attachment unit 25.

[0040] The fixing unit 31 can fix the camera device 3 to the power tool device 2 at any position within the power tool device 2, as long as the camera unit 32 can capture an image of at least the work object. For example, Figure 3 As shown in Figure A, the fixing unit 31 can fix the camera device 3 to the upper part of the body 23 of the power tool device 2, or as shown in Figure A. Figure 3 As shown in B, the camera device 3 can be located below the body portion 23 of the power tool device 2 or on the front side of the body portion 23.

[0041] The power tool system 1 also includes a camera control unit 4, which controls at least one of the imaging unit 32 and the camera communication unit 33 based on the operating state of the drive unit 21. The camera control unit 4 preferably includes a computer system. In the computer system, a processor, such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or MPU (Microprocessor Unit), reads and executes a program stored in memory to implement some or all of the functions of the camera control unit 4. The computer system includes a processor operating according to a program as its main hardware structure. The processor can be of any type, as long as its functions can be implemented through the execution of the program. The processor includes one or more electronic circuits, each comprising a semiconductor integrated circuit (IC) or a large-scale integrated circuit (LSI). ICs or LSIs are referred to as ICs or LSIs in the text, but the terminology for the electronic circuits varies depending on the degree of integration, and the electronic circuits can also be referred to as system LSIs, very large-scale integrated circuits (VLSIs), or ultra-large-scale integrated circuits (ULSIs). Field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) programmed after the LSI is manufactured, or reconfigurable logic devices that can reconfigure the bonding relationships in the LSI or set the circuit partitions in the LSI, can also be used for the same purpose. These multiple electronic circuits can be integrated into a single chip, or they can be disposed across multiple chips. These multiple chips can be integrated into a single device, or they can be disposed across multiple devices.

[0042] In this embodiment, the camera device 3 has a camera control unit 4, and the camera control unit 4 controls at least one of the camera unit 32 and the camera communication unit 33 based on the operation status signal A1 received by the camera communication unit 33.

[0043] For example, the camera unit 32 is configured to include a camera with an imaging element and a lens. The camera unit 32 captures images of at least the work object. In this embodiment, the camera unit 32 captures images of the work object and each of the tightening components. Specifically, the camera unit 32 generates images that include the work object where the tightening operation has been completed and each of the tightening components within the camera's field of view, based on the control of the camera control unit 4. Based on the images generated by the camera unit 32, the person managing the tightening operation can check whether the drive unit 21 has properly attached the tightening equipment to the work object.

[0044] The camera communication unit 33 is configured to communicate with an external device and receive information related to the operating status of the drive unit 21 from the power tool communication unit 22. The camera communication unit 33 is a communication module capable of wireless communication via, for example, Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. In this embodiment, the external device communicating with the camera communication unit 33 is a device other than the camera communication unit 33, such as the power tool communication unit 22 or an information terminal owned by the operator. The camera communication unit 33 communicates with the power tool communication unit 22 to receive the operating status signal A1 from the power tool communication unit 22.

[0045] The power tool system 1 also includes a history storage device 5, which stores historical information about tightening operations. The history storage device 5 stores the images captured by the camera unit 32 as historical information about tightening operations. In this embodiment, the history storage device 5 is assumed to be a server with both a storage device and a communication device. Examples of storage devices include magnetic core memory and semiconductor memory. The communication device only needs to communicate with the camera communication unit 33 via a wide area network such as the Internet. The communication method between the communication device and the camera communication unit 33 can be wireless communication using radio waves as a medium, based on communication standards such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark). Alternatively, the communication method between the communication device and the camera communication unit 33 can also be wired communication based on communication standards such as a wired LAN (local area network). In this embodiment, the camera communication unit 33 sends the images captured by the camera unit 32 to the history storage device 5 under the control of the camera control unit 4.

[0046] (1-3) Operations

[0047] use Figure 4 The sequence diagram will provide an explanation of the operation of the power tool system 1 in this embodiment.

[0048] First, the drive unit 21 begins the tightening operation (S11). After the drive unit 21 completes the tightening operation (S12), the power tool communication unit 22 sends an operation status signal A1 indicating that the tightening is complete to the camera communication unit 33 (S13).

[0049] Then, the camera communication unit 33 receives the operation status signal A1 from the power tool communication unit 22 (S14). The camera control unit 4 checks the completion of the tightening operation based on the operation status signal A1 received by the camera communication unit 33 and controls the camera unit 32 (S15). Then, the camera unit 32 captures an image of the work object whose tightening operation has been completed based on the control of the camera control unit 4, so as to generate a captured image (S16).

[0050] Then, based on the control of the camera control unit 4, the camera communication unit 33 sends the captured image generated by the camera unit 32 to the historical storage device 5 (S17). Therefore, the power tool system 1 can store the captured image generated by the camera unit 32 as historical information of the tightening operation in the historical storage device 5.

[0051] Figure 4 The sequence diagram is merely an example of the operation of the power tool system 1 in this embodiment, and the order of its processing may be changed or any processing may be omitted as appropriate.

[0052] (1-4) Variations

[0053] The above embodiments are merely one of many embodiments of the present invention. Various modifications can be made to the above embodiments based on design, etc., as long as the objective of the present invention is achieved.

[0054] In the above embodiments, such as Figure 5 As shown, the camera device 3 may not have a camera control unit 4, while the power tool device 2 may have a camera control unit 4. In this case, the drive unit 21 outputs an operation status signal A1 indicating the operation status to the camera control unit 4, and the camera control unit 4 generates a camera control signal A2 based on the operation status signal A1 indicating the operation status of the drive unit 21, controlling at least one of the imaging unit 32 and the camera communication unit 33. Then, the power tool communication unit 22 sends the camera control signal A2 to the camera communication unit 33. The imaging unit 32 captures images of the completed tightening operation and each of the tightening components based on the camera control signal A2, and the camera communication unit 33 sends the captured images generated by the imaging unit 32 to the history storage device 5.

[0055] According to one aspect, the camera unit 32 can generate images of the work object within the camera range after the tightening operation is completed by the drive unit 21, as well as images of the work object within the camera range before the tightening operation begins. In this case, the images, each with different shooting timing, are stored in the history storage device 5. This allows the person managing the tightening operation to more accurately check whether the drive unit 21 has properly attached the tightening device to the work object.

[0056] According to one aspect, the historical storage device 5 can also be provided in the camera device 3. In this case, the historical storage device 5 is assumed to be a semiconductor memory such as a flash memory. Alternatively, the historical storage device 5 can also be a memory card removable from the camera device 3. The camera communication unit 33 does not need to send the captured images generated by the imaging unit 32 to the historical storage device 5, and the historical storage device 5 can store the captured images generated by the imaging unit 32 without the intervention of the camera communication unit 33.

[0057] Alternatively, a historical storage device 5 can also be provided in the power tool device 2. The camera communication unit 33 sends the captured images generated by the camera unit 32 to the power tool communication unit 22. Then, the historical storage device 5 can store the captured images generated by the camera unit 32 via the power tool communication unit 22.

[0058] (Second Embodiment)

[0059] (2-1) Overview

[0060] The power tool system 1 according to the second embodiment includes an external communication device 6 having an external communication unit 61 and a camera control unit 4, and differs from the power tool system 1 according to the first embodiment in that the power tool device 2 and the camera device 3 communicate via the external communication device 6.

[0061] (2-2) Details

[0062] refer to Figure 6 A detailed description of the structure of the power tool system 1 according to the second embodiment will be given.

[0063] The power tool system 1 in this embodiment includes: a power tool device 2 having a drive unit 21 and a power tool communication unit 22; a camera device 3 having a fixing unit 31, an imaging unit 32, and a camera communication unit 33; and an external communication device 6 having an external communication unit 61 and a camera control unit 4. Note that the drive unit 21 and fixing unit 31 of the power tool system 1 in the second embodiment are the same as those in the first embodiment, therefore their description is omitted.

[0064] The power tool communication unit 22 communicates with the external communication unit 61 to send an operation status signal A1, indicating the operating speed of the drive unit 21, to the external communication unit 61. Specifically, when the drive unit 21 completes the tightening operation, the power tool communication unit 22 sends an operation status signal A1, indicating that tightening is complete, to the external communication unit 61.

[0065] The external communication unit 61 is a communication module capable of wireless communication via, for example, Bluetooth (registered trademark) or Wi-Fi (registered trademark). In this embodiment, the external communication unit 61 is configured to communicate with both the power tool communication unit 22 and the camera communication unit 33.

[0066] The camera control unit 4 generates a camera control signal A2 to control at least one of the camera unit 32 and the camera communication unit 33 based on the operation status signal A1 received by the external communication unit 61 from the power tool communication unit 22. In this embodiment, the camera control unit 4 generates the camera control signal A2 to control the camera unit 32 based on the operation status signal A1. Then, the external communication unit 61 sends the camera control signal A2 to the camera communication unit 33.

[0067] The camera unit 32 captures images of the completed tightening operation object and each of the tightening components based on the camera control signal A2 received by the camera communication unit 33.

[0068] The camera communication unit 33 sends the captured images generated by the camera unit 32 to the historical storage device 5.

[0069] The power tool system 1 in this embodiment also includes a history storage device 5, which stores the images generated by the camera unit 32 as historical information of the tightening operation performed by the drive unit 21. The camera communication unit 33 sends the images generated by the camera unit 32 to the history storage device 5.

[0070] The structure of the power tool system 1 according to the second embodiment can be appropriately combined with the structure of the first embodiment (including variations).

[0071] (2-3) Operation

[0072] use Figure 7 The sequence diagram will provide an explanation of the operation of the power tool system 1 in this embodiment.

[0073] First, the drive unit 21 begins the tightening operation (S21). After the drive unit 21 completes the tightening operation (S22), the power tool communication unit 22 sends an operation status signal A1 indicating that the tightening is complete to the external communication unit 61 (S23).

[0074] Then, the external communication unit 61 receives the operation status signal A1 from the power tool communication unit 22 (S24). The camera control unit 4 checks the completion of the tightening operation based on the operation status signal A1 received from the external communication unit 61 and generates a camera control signal A2 to control the camera unit 32 (S25). Then, the external communication unit 61 sends the camera control signal A2 to the camera communication unit 33 (S26).

[0075] After the camera communication unit 33 receives the camera control signal A2 (S27), the camera unit 32 captures images of the completed tightening operation and each of the tightening components based on the camera control signal A2 (S28). Then, the camera communication unit 33 sends the captured images generated by the camera unit 32 to the history storage device 5 (S29). This allows the captured images generated by the camera unit 32 of the camera device 3, which is detachable from the power tool device 2, to be stored in the history storage device 5 as historical information of the tightening operation performed by the drive unit 21.

[0076] Figure 7 The sequence diagram is merely an example of the operation of the power tool system 1 in this embodiment, and the order of its processing may be changed or any processing may be omitted as appropriate.

[0077] (Third Embodiment)

[0078] (3-1) Overview

[0079] The power tool system 1 according to the third embodiment differs from the power tool system 1 according to the first embodiment in that the camera device 3 has at least one of a sound sensor 34 and a vibration sensor 35 for sensing the operating state of the drive unit 21.

[0080] (3-2) Details

[0081] refer to Figure 8 A detailed description of the structure of the power tool system 1 according to the third embodiment will be given.

[0082] The power tool system 1 of this embodiment includes: a power tool device 2 having a drive unit 21; and a camera device 3 having at least one of a fixing unit 31, an imaging unit 32, a camera communication unit 33, a sound sensor 34, and a vibration sensor 35, and a camera control unit 4. Note that in this embodiment, both the sound sensor 34 and the vibration sensor 35 are included. The drive unit 21 and the fixing unit 31 of the power tool system 1 in the third embodiment are the same as those in the first embodiment, and therefore their description is omitted.

[0083] The sound sensor 34 and the vibration sensor 35 sense the operating status of the drive unit 21.

[0084] The sound sensor 34 is configured to sense the sound generated during the tightening operation of the drive unit 21. The sound sensor 34 only needs to be a device that converts sound into an electrical signal, and can also be, for example, a microphone. When sound is sensed, the sound sensor 34 sends a sound detection signal A3 to the camera control unit 4. Specifically, the sound sensor 34 continues to send the sound detection signal A3 while sound is still being sensed, and stops sending the sound detection signal A3 when sound is no longer sensed.

[0085] Vibration sensor 35 is configured to sense vibrations generated during tightening operations performed by drive unit 21. Vibration sensor 35 only needs to be a device that converts vibration into an electrical signal, and can also be, for example, a velocity sensor, an accelerometer, or a gyroscope sensor. When vibration is sensed, vibration sensor 35 sends a vibration detection signal A4 to camera control unit 4. Specifically, vibration sensor 35 continues to send vibration detection signal A4 while vibration is still being sensed, and stops sending vibration detection signal A4 when vibration is no longer sensed.

[0086] In this embodiment, the camera control unit 4 controls the camera unit 32 when the output sound detection signal A3 and vibration detection signal A4 transition from a state to a stop state. Then, the camera unit 32 captures images of the work object where the tightening operation has been completed, as well as each of the tightening components.

[0087] The power tool system 1 in this embodiment also includes a history storage device 5, which stores the images generated by the camera unit 32 as historical information of the tightening operation performed by the drive unit 21. The camera control unit 4 controls the camera communication unit 33 to send the images generated by the camera unit 32 to the history storage device 5.

[0088] The structure of the power tool system 1 according to the third embodiment can be appropriately combined with the structure of the first embodiment (including variations).

[0089] (3-3) Operation

[0090] use Figure 9 The sequence diagram will provide an explanation of the operation of the power tool system 1 in this embodiment.

[0091] First, the drive unit 21 begins the tightening operation and generates sound and vibration (S31). The sound sensor 34 senses the sound of the tightening operation and sends a sound detection signal A3 to the camera control unit 4. Similarly, the vibration sensor 35 senses the vibration of the tightening operation and sends a vibration detection signal A4 to the camera control unit 4 (S32).

[0092] Then, the drive unit 21 completes the tightening operation, and the sound and vibration stop (S33). The sound sensor 34 no longer detects the sound of the tightening operation and stops the sound detection signal A3. Similarly, the vibration sensor 35 no longer detects the vibration of the tightening operation and stops the vibration detection signal A4 (S34).

[0093] Then, the camera control unit 4 controls the camera unit 32 when both the output sound detection signal A3 and the vibration detection signal A4 transition from a state to a stop state. Based on the control of the camera control unit 4, the camera unit 32 then captures images of the completed tightening operation and each of the tightening components (S35). The camera communication unit 33 sends the captured images generated by the camera unit 32 to the history storage device 5 (S36). This allows the captured images generated by the camera unit 32 of the camera device 3, which is detachable from the power tool device 2, to be stored in the history storage device 5 as historical information of the tightening operation performed by the drive unit 21.

[0094] Figure 9 The sequence diagram is merely an example of the operation of the power tool system 1 in this embodiment, and the order of its processing may be changed or any processing may be omitted as appropriate.

[0095] (Fourth Embodiment)

[0096] (4-1) Overview

[0097] The power tool system 1 according to the fourth embodiment differs from the power tool system 1 according to the first embodiment in that the camera device 3 has at least one of a sound sensor 34 and a vibration sensor 35 for sensing the operating state of the drive unit 21, and a camera storage unit 37.

[0098] Furthermore, the power tool system 1 according to the fourth embodiment differs from the power tool system 1 according to the first embodiment in that it includes an external communication device 6 having an external communication unit 61 and a camera control unit 4, and the power tool device 2 and the camera device 3 communicate with each other via the external communication device 6.

[0099] (4-2) Details

[0100] refer to Figure 10A detailed description of the structure of the power tool system 1 according to the fourth embodiment will be given.

[0101] The power tool system 1 in this embodiment includes a power tool device 2, a camera device 3, and an external communication device 6. The power tool device 2 has a drive unit 21 and a power tool communication unit 22. The camera device 3 has a fixing unit 31, an image capturing unit 32, a camera communication unit 33, at least one of a sound sensor 34 and a vibration sensor 35, an image control unit 36, and a camera storage unit 37. Note that in this embodiment, the power tool system 1 includes both the sound sensor 34 and the vibration sensor 35. The drive unit 21 and fixing unit 31 of the power tool system 1 in the fourth embodiment are the same as those in the first embodiment, therefore their description is omitted.

[0102] The sound sensor 34 or the vibration sensor 35 senses the operating state of the drive unit 21. In this embodiment, both the sound sensor 34 and the vibration sensor 35 sense the operating state of the drive unit 21.

[0103] The sound sensor 34 is configured to sense the sound generated during the tightening operation of the drive unit 21. The sound sensor 34 only needs to be a device that converts sound into an electrical signal, and can also be, for example, a microphone. When sound is sensed, the sound sensor 34 sends a sound detection signal A3 to the camera control unit 36. Specifically, the sound sensor 34 continues to send the sound detection signal A3 while sound is still being sensed, and stops sending the sound detection signal A3 when sound is no longer sensed.

[0104] Vibration sensor 35 is configured to sense vibrations generated during tightening operations performed by drive unit 21. Vibration sensor 35 only needs to be a device that converts vibration into an electrical signal, and can also be, for example, a velocity sensor, an accelerometer, or a gyroscope sensor. When vibration is sensed, vibration sensor 35 sends a vibration detection signal A4 to camera control unit 36. Specifically, vibration sensor 35 continues to send vibration detection signal A4 while vibration is still being sensed, and stops sending vibration detection signal A4 when vibration is no longer sensed.

[0105] The camera control unit 36 ​​controls the camera unit 32 based on at least one of the sensing results from the sound sensor 34 and the vibration sensor 35 to capture an image of at least the work object after the tightening operation. Note that the power tool system 1 of this embodiment includes both the sound sensor 34 and the vibration sensor 35; therefore, the camera control unit 36 ​​controls the camera unit 32 when the output states of both the sound detection signal A3 and the vibration detection signal A4 transition to a stop state. Then, the camera unit 32 generates an image of the work object after the tightening operation has been completed, as well as each of the tightening components, based on the control of the camera control unit 36. On the other hand, if the camera control unit 36 ​​does not receive the sound detection signal A3 or the vibration detection signal A4, the camera control unit 36 ​​does not control the camera unit 32, and the camera unit 32 does not capture an image.

[0106] The camera control unit 36 ​​preferably includes a computer system. In this computer system, a processor, such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or MPU (Microprocessor Unit), reads and executes a program stored in memory to implement some or all of the functions of the camera control unit 36. The computer system includes a processor that operates according to a program as its main hardware structure. The processor can be of any type, as long as its functions can be implemented through program execution. The processor includes one or more electronic circuits, each containing a semiconductor integrated circuit (IC) or a low-scale integrated circuit (LSI). ICs or LSIs are referred to as ICs or LSIs in the text, but the terminology for the electronic circuits varies depending on the degree of integration, and the electronic circuits can also be referred to as system LSIs, very large-scale integrated circuits (VLSIs), or ultra-large-scale integrated circuits (ULSIs). Field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) that are programmed after LSI fabrication, or reconfigurable logic devices that can reconfigure the bonding relationships in an LSI or set the circuit partitions in an LSI, can also be used for the same purpose. These multiple electronic circuits can be integrated into a single chip or disposed across multiple chips. These multiple chips can be integrated into a single device or disposed across multiple devices.

[0107] The camera storage unit 37 stores images captured by the imaging unit 32 based on at least one of the sensing results from the sound sensor 34 and the vibration sensor 35. In this embodiment, the camera storage unit 37 is configured to store images captured by the imaging unit 32. Examples of the camera storage unit 37 include storage devices such as magnetic core memory or semiconductor memory. Alternatively, the camera storage unit 37 may also be an auxiliary storage device such as an SSD (Solid State Drive) or an HDD (Hard Disk Drive).

[0108] The power tool system 1 in this embodiment also includes a history storage device 5, which stores the captured images generated by the camera unit 32 as historical information of the tightening operation performed by the drive unit 21. The camera control unit 4 controls the camera communication unit 33 based on the operation status signal A1 to enable transmission from the camera communication unit 33 to the history storage device 5. Note that in this embodiment, the camera control unit 4 determines whether the captured images stored in the camera storage unit 37 will be transmitted from the camera communication unit 33 to the history storage device 5 based on the operation status signal A1, and generates a camera control signal A2 to control the camera communication unit 33.

[0109] The structure of the power tool system 1 according to the fourth embodiment can be appropriately combined with the structure of the first embodiment (including variations).

[0110] (4-3) Operation

[0111] In this embodiment, the sound sensor 34 is configured to sense the sound generated when the drive unit 21 performs a tightening operation, and the vibration sensor 35 is configured to sense the vibration generated when the drive unit 21 performs a tightening operation. However, it is also possible for the sound sensor 34 or the vibration sensor 35 to mis-sensitize. Therefore, the operation of the power tool system 1 in this embodiment will be described in the following cases: when both the sound sensor 34 and the vibration sensor 35 are sensing normally; when either the sound sensor 34 or the vibration sensor 35 mis-sensits; and when both the sound sensor and the vibration sensor mis-sensitize.

[0112] (4-3-1) The case where both the sound sensor and the vibration sensor are performing normal sensing.

[0113] use Figure 11 The sequence diagram will provide an explanation of the operation of the power tool system 1 in this embodiment when the sound sensor 34 and the vibration sensor 35 sense the sound and vibration generated during the tightening operation.

[0114] First, the drive unit 21 begins the tightening operation and generates sound and vibration (S41). The sound sensor 34 senses the sound of the tightening operation and sends a sound detection signal A3 to the camera control unit 4. Similarly, the vibration sensor 35 senses the vibration of the tightening operation and sends a vibration detection signal A4 to the camera control unit 4 (S42).

[0115] Then, the drive unit 21 completes the tightening operation, and the sound and vibration stop (S43). The sound sensor 34 no longer detects the sound of the tightening operation and stops sending the sound detection signal A3 to the camera control unit 4. Similarly, the vibration sensor 35 no longer detects the vibration of the tightening operation and stops sending the vibration detection signal A4 to the camera control unit 4 (S44).

[0116] Then, when the output sound detection signal A3 and vibration detection signal A4 transition from a state to a stop state, the camera control unit 36 ​​controls the camera unit 32. The camera unit 32 then captures images of the work object to which the tightening assembly has been tightened, as well as images of each member of the tightening assembly, based on the control of the camera control unit 36 ​​(S45). The camera storage unit 37 stores the captured images generated by the camera unit 32 as captured image A (S46).

[0117] Then, the power tool communication unit 22 sends an operation status signal A1, indicating that the tightening operation is complete, to the external communication unit 61 (S47). After the external communication unit 61 receives the operation status signal A1 (S48), the camera control unit 4 generates a camera control signal A2 based on the operation status signal A1 to control the camera communication unit 33 to send the captured image A to the history storage device 5 (S49). Then, the external communication unit 61 sends the camera control signal A2 to the camera communication unit 33 (S4A).

[0118] After receiving the camera control signal A2 (S4B), the camera communication unit 33 sends the captured image A stored in the camera storage unit 37 to the history storage device 5 based on the camera control signal A2 (S4C). This allows the captured image generated by the imaging unit 32 of the camera device 3 to be stored in the history storage device 5 more quickly and accurately as historical information of the tightening operation performed by the drive unit 21.

[0119] Figure 11 The sequence diagram is merely an example of the operation of the power tool system 1 in this embodiment, and the order of its processing may be changed or any processing may be omitted as appropriate.

[0120] (4-3-2) Cases of false sensing by sound or vibration sensors

[0121] use Figure 12 The timing diagram will provide an explanation of the operation of the power tool system 1 in this embodiment in the event of a false sensing by the sound sensor 34 or the vibration sensor 35. First, let's assume the case where the sound sensor 34 falsely senses the vibration.

[0122] First, the sound sensor 34 detects a sound other than the sound of tightening (e.g., a sound generated when the power tool device 2 is moved or when performing a task other than tightening), and sends a sound detection signal A3 to the camera control unit 4. However, the vibration sensor 35 does not detect any vibration, and therefore does not send a vibration detection signal A4 (S51). Then, the sound sensor 34 stops detecting any sound other than the sound of tightening and stops sending the sound detection signal A3 to the camera control unit 4. The vibration sensor 35 continues to not detect any vibration (S52).

[0123] Then, the camera control unit 36 ​​only receives the sound detection signal A3 and does not receive the vibration detection signal A4. Therefore, the camera control unit 36 ​​does not control the camera unit 32, and the camera unit 32 does not capture images (S53).

[0124] Similarly, if the vibration sensor 35 also falsely senses the vibration, the camera control unit 36 ​​will only receive the vibration detection signal A4 and will not receive the sound detection signal A3. Therefore, the camera control unit 36 ​​will not control the camera unit 32, and the camera unit 32 will not capture images.

[0125] Figure 12 The sequence diagram is merely an example of the operation of the power tool system 1 in this embodiment, and the order of its processing may be changed or any processing may be omitted as appropriate.

[0126] (4-3-3) Cases where both sound and vibration sensors mis-sensitize.

[0127] use Figure 13 The timing diagram will provide an explanation of the operation of the power tool system 1 in this embodiment in the event of false sensing by both the sound sensor 34 and the vibration sensor 35.

[0128] First, the sound sensor 34 detects sounds other than those from tightening operations (e.g., sounds generated when the power tool 2 is moved or when performing operations other than tightening), and sends a sound detection signal A3 to the camera control unit 4. Similarly, the vibration sensor 35 detects vibrations other than those from tightening operations (e.g., vibrations generated when the power tool 2 is moved or when performing operations other than tightening), and sends a vibration detection signal A4 to the camera control unit 4 (S61).

[0129] Then, the sound sensor 34 stops detecting sounds other than the sound of the tightening operation and stops sending the sound detection signal A3 to the camera control unit 4. Similarly, the vibration sensor 35 stops detecting vibrations other than the vibration of the tightening operation and stops sending the vibration detection signal A4 to the camera control unit 4 (S62).

[0130] Then, when the output sound detection signal A3 and vibration detection signal A4 transition from the state to the stop state, the camera control unit 36 ​​controls the camera unit 32. Then, based on the control of the camera control unit 36, the camera unit 32 captures an image of the work object where the tightening assembly has been tightened (S63). Then, the camera storage unit 37 stores the captured image generated by the camera unit 32 as captured image B (S64).

[0131] However, since no tightening operation was performed, the camera communication unit 33 did not receive the camera control signal A2 (S65) and did not send the captured image B stored in the camera storage unit 37 to the history storage device 5 (S66).

[0132] Then, if a preset given time has elapsed since the time the captured image B was stored in the camera storage unit 37, the camera storage unit 37 discards the captured image B (S67). For example, the preset given time can be 30 seconds, or less or more than 30 seconds.

[0133] This makes it possible to remove images captured due to malfunctions from the images to be sent to the historical storage device 5.

[0134] Figure 13 The sequence diagram is merely an example of the operation of the power tool system 1 in this embodiment, and the order of its processing may be changed or any processing may be omitted as appropriate.

[0135] (4-4) Variation Example

[0136] In the above embodiments, the external communication device 6 may not have a camera control unit 4, and the camera device 3 may have a camera control unit 4. In this case, the camera control unit 4 may also be used as the video recording control unit 36.

[0137] In the above embodiments, the external communication device 6 may not have a camera control unit 4, and the power tool device 2 may have a camera control unit 4.

[0138] (Summarize)

[0139] As described above, the power tool system (1) according to the first aspect includes a power tool device (2) and a camera device (3). The power tool device (2) has a drive unit (21) and a power tool communication unit (22). The drive unit (21) performs a tightening operation by using power from a power source to tighten the tightening assembly to the work object. The power tool communication unit (22) communicates with the outside. The camera device (3) has a fixing unit (31), an image capturing unit (32), and a camera communication unit (33). The fixing unit (31) is removably attached to the power tool device (2). The image capturing unit (32) captures an image of at least the work object. The camera communication unit (33) communicates with the outside.

[0140] According to this, there are the following advantages: each of the power tool device (2) and the camera device (3) can be replaced individually.

[0141] In the power tool system (1) according to the second aspect, in the first aspect, the camera unit (32) captures images of the work object and each of the tightening components.

[0142] In this respect, there are the following advantages: the tightening components can be checked to see if they have been properly attached to the work object based on the captured images generated by the camera unit (32).

[0143] In the power tool system (1) according to the third aspect, in the first or second aspect, it further includes a camera control unit (4) that controls at least one of the camera unit (32) and the camera communication unit (33) based on the operating state of the drive unit (21).

[0144] Based on this, there are advantages such as being able to control at least one of the camera unit (32) and the camera control unit (33) based on the operating state of the drive unit (21).

[0145] In the power tool system (1) according to the fourth aspect, in the third aspect, the camera device (3) has at least one of a sound sensor (34) and a vibration sensor (35) for sensing the operating state of the drive unit (21).

[0146] According to this, there are the following advantages: since the operating status of the drive unit (21) can be sensed without communication, the power tool device (2) can be easily adapted when the power tool device (2) is replaced, regardless of whether the power tool device (2) has a communication component.

[0147] In the power tool system (1) according to the fifth aspect, in the third aspect, the camera device (3) has a camera control unit (4). The power tool communication unit (22) sends an operation status signal (A1) indicating the operation status of the drive unit (21) to the camera control unit (33). The camera control unit (4) controls at least one of the camera unit (32) and the camera communication unit (33) based on the operation status signal (A1) received by the camera communication unit (33).

[0148] According to this, there are the following advantages: the power tool system (1) does not require the addition of an external communication device (6), and the structure of the power tool system (1) can be simplified.

[0149] In the power tool system (1) according to the sixth aspect, in the third aspect, the power tool device (2) has a camera control unit (4). The camera control unit (4) generates a camera control signal (A2) to control at least one of the camera unit (32) and the camera communication unit (33) based on an operation status signal (A1) indicating the operation status of the drive unit (21). The power tool communication unit (22) sends the camera control signal (A2) to the camera communication unit (33).

[0150] According to this, there are the following advantages: the power tool system (1) does not require the addition of an external communication device (6), and the structure of the power tool system (1) can be simplified.

[0151] In the power tool system (1) according to the seventh aspect, the third aspect further includes an external communication device (6) having a camera control unit (4) and an external communication unit (61). The power tool communication unit (22) sends an operation status signal (A1) indicating the operation status of the drive unit (21) to the external communication unit (61). The camera control unit (4) generates a camera control signal (A2) controlling at least one of the camera unit (32) and the camera communication unit (33) based on the operation status signal (A1) received by the external communication unit (61). The external communication unit (61) sends the camera control signal (A2) to the camera communication unit (33).

[0152] According to this, there is an advantage that when replacing either the power tool device (2) or the camera device (3), the power tool device (2) or the camera device (3) can be easily adapted by simply changing the setting of the external communication unit (61) included in the external communication device (6).

[0153] In the power tool system (1) according to the eighth aspect, in any one of the fifth to seventh aspects, a history storage device (5) is also included, which stores historical information of tightening operations. The camera device (3) also has at least one of a sound sensor (34) and a vibration sensor (35), and a camera storage unit (37). The sound sensor (34) or the vibration sensor (35) senses the operating state of the drive unit (21). The camera storage unit (37) stores the captured image generated by the imaging unit (32) based on the sensing results from at least one of the sound sensor (34) and the vibration sensor (35). The camera control unit (4) controls the camera communication unit (33) based on the operating state signal (A1) so that the captured image is sent from the camera communication unit (33) to the history storage device (5).

[0154] According to this, there is an advantage that the captured images generated by the camera unit (32) due to the failure of the sound sensor (34) or vibration sensor (35) can be deleted and sent to the historical storage device (5).

[0155] The power tool device (2) according to the ninth aspect includes a drive unit (21), a power tool communication unit (22) for communicating with the outside, and an attachment unit (25) for removably attaching a camera device (3) to capture images of at least the work object. The drive unit (21) uses power from a power source to tighten a tightening assembly to the work object. The power tool communication unit (22) communicates with the outside. The attachment unit (25) allows the camera device (3) to be removably attached to capture images of at least the work object.

[0156] According to this, there are the following advantages: a camera device (3) can be provided, and a power tool device (2) can be removably attached.

[0157] According to the tenth aspect, the camera device (3) captures an image of the work object by the drive unit (21) of the power tool device (2) using power from a power source to tighten the tightening assembly, and has a fixing unit (31) and a camera communication unit (33). The fixing unit (31) is removably attached to the power tool device (2). The camera communication unit (33) communicates with the outside.

[0158] According to this, there are the following advantages: a camera device (3) that can be removably attached to a power tool device (2) can be provided.

[0159] According to the eleventh aspect, the camera device (3) includes at least one of a sound sensor (34) and a vibration sensor (35) in the tenth aspect. The sound sensor (34) or the vibration sensor (35) senses the operating state of the drive unit (21).

[0160] In this respect, there is an advantage that since the operating status of the drive unit (21) can be sensed without communication, a camera device (3) that can be easily adapted can be provided when replacing the power tool device (2), regardless of whether the power tool device (2) has a communication component.

[0161] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0162] 1 Power tool system

[0163] 2 Power tool devices

[0164] 21 Drive Units

[0165] 22 Power Tool Communication Unit

[0166] 25 Attachment Units

[0167] 3 Camera device

[0168] 31 Fixed Unit

[0169] 32 camera units

[0170] 33 Camera Communication Unit

[0171] 34 sound sensors

[0172] 35 Vibration Sensor

[0173] 37 Camera storage unit

[0174] 4 Camera control unit

[0175] 5 historical storage devices

[0176] 6External communication devices

[0177] 61 External Communication Unit

[0178] A1 Operation Status Signal

[0179] A2 Camera Control Signals

Claims

1. An electric tool system, comprising: An electric tool device having a drive unit and an electric tool communication unit, the drive unit being used to perform a tightening operation by using power from a power source to tighten a tightening assembly to a work object, and the electric tool communication unit being used to communicate with the outside. A camera device comprising a fixing unit, an image capturing unit, a camera communication unit, at least one of a sound sensor and a vibration sensor, and a camera storage unit, wherein the fixing unit is removably attached to the power tool device, the image capturing unit is used to capture images of at least the work object, the camera communication unit is used to communicate with the outside, at least one of the sound sensor and the vibration sensor is used to sense the operating state of the drive unit, and the camera storage unit is used to store captured images generated by the image capturing unit based on sensing results from at least one of the sound sensor and the vibration sensor; A camera control unit for controlling at least one of the camera unit and the camera communication unit; as well as A historical storage device is used to store historical information about the tightening operation. When the drive unit completes the tightening operation, it outputs an operation status signal indicating that the tightening operation is complete. The camera control unit controls the camera communication unit based on the operation status signal, so that the captured images stored in the camera storage unit are sent from the camera communication unit to the history storage device. If a predetermined time has elapsed since the time the captured image was stored in the camera storage unit, the camera storage unit discards the captured image.

2. The power tool system of claim 1, wherein, The camera unit captures images of the work object and each of the tightening components.

3. The power tool system according to claim 1, wherein, The camera device includes the camera control unit. The power tool communication unit sends the operation status signal output from the drive unit to the camera communication unit, and The camera control unit controls at least one of the camera unit and the camera communication unit based on the operation status signal received by the camera communication unit.

4. The power tool system according to claim 1, wherein, The power tool device includes the camera control unit. The camera control unit generates camera control signals to control at least one of the imaging unit and the camera communication unit based on the operation status signal output from the drive unit. The power tool communication unit sends the camera control signal to the camera communication unit.

5. The power tool system according to claim 1, further comprising: An external communication device, comprising an external communication unit and the camera control unit, The power tool communication unit sends the operation status signal output from the drive unit to the external communication unit. The camera control unit generates camera control signals to control at least one of the imaging unit and the camera communication unit based on the operation status signals received from the external communication unit. The external communication unit sends the camera control signals to the camera communication unit.

Images