Strapping device with motor-driven rocker

Abstract

Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide a strapping device having a rocker movable from a tension position to a strap insertion position to increase a distance between a tension wheel and a tension plate of the strapping device. The strapping device also includes a motor and a disconnect assembly. When the disconnect assembly is in the coupled configuration, the disconnect assembly operably connects the motor to the rocker such that operation of the motor moves the rocker from the tensioned position to the strap insertion position. When the disconnect assembly is in the released configuration, the disconnect assembly does not operably connect the motor to the rocker such that operation of the motor does not move the rocker from the tensioned position to the strap insertion position.

Description

[0001] priority

[0002] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 379,552, filed on October 14, 2022, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to strapping devices, and more particularly to strapping devices configured to tension a strap around a load and attach overlapping portions of the strap to each other to form a tensioned strap loop around the load. Background Art

[0004] A strapping device is configured to tension a strap around a load and attach overlapping portions of the strap to one another to form a tensioned strap loop around the load. A battery-powered strapping tool is one type of strapping device. To form a tensioned strap loop around a load using one of these strapping tools, an operator first pulls a leading end of the strap from a strap supply, wraps the strap around the load, and positions the leading end of the strap under another portion of the strap. The operator then introduces one or more of these overlapping strap portions (depending on the type of strapping tool) into the strapping tool and actuates one or more buttons to initiate: (1) a tensioning cycle, during which the tensioning assembly tensions the strap around the load; and (2) a locking cycle after the tensioning cycle is completed, during which the locking assembly attaches the overlapping strap portions to one another (thereby forming a tensioned strap loop around the load) and during which the strap is cut from the strap supply.

[0005] How the strapping tool attaches the overlapping portions of the strips to each other during the blocking cycle depends on the type of strapping tool and the type of strip. Certain strapping tools configured for plastic strips (such as polypropylene strips or polyester strips) include friction welders, heated blades, or ultrasonic welders, which are configured to attach the overlapping portions of the strips to each other. Some strapping tools configured for plastic strips or metal strips (such as steel strips) include jaws that are mechanically deformed (referred to as "crimping" in the strapping industry) or cut notches (referred to as "notching" in the strapping industry) in blocking elements positioned around the overlapping portions of the strips to attach the overlapping portions of the strips to each other. Other strapping tools configured for metal strips include punches and dies, which are configured to form a set of mechanical interlocking cuts in the overlapping portions of the strips to attach the overlapping portions of the strips to each other (referred to as "sealless" attachment in the strapping industry).

[0006] Because strapping tool operators may use handheld strapping tools hundreds of times per day, there is a continuing need to make strapping tools as easy to use as possible (without sacrificing performance) and to reduce operator fatigue. Summary of the invention

[0007] Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide a strapping device having a rocker that is movable from a tensioning position to a strap insertion position to increase the distance between the tensioning wheel and the tensioning plate of the strapping device. The strapping device also includes a motor and a disconnect coupling assembly. When the disconnect coupling assembly is in a coupled configuration, the disconnect coupling assembly operably connects the motor to the rocker so that operation of the motor moves the rocker from the tensioning position to the strap insertion position. When the disconnect coupling assembly is in a released configuration, the disconnect coupling assembly does not operably connect the motor to the rocker so that operation of the motor does not move the rocker from the tensioning position to the strap insertion position. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] Figure 1A and Figure 1B is a perspective view of an example embodiment of a strapping tool of the present disclosure.

[0009] Figure 1C yes Figure 1A and Figure 1B A block diagram of some components of a strapping tool.

[0010] FIG. 2A to FIG. 2C yes Figure 1A and Figure 1B Diagrammatic view of a lashing tool securing a load to a pallet.

[0011] Figure 2D Is Figure 1A A perspective view of a strapping tool formed to attach two overlapping portions of strapping to form a friction weld strap joint.

[0012] Figure 3A and Figure 3B yes Figure 1A and Figure 1B A perspective view of the working components of a strapping tool.

[0013] Figure 4A yes Figure 3A and Figure 3B A perspective view of the tensioning assembly of the working assembly.

[0014] Figure 4B yes Figure 4A Exploded perspective view of the tensioning assembly.

[0015] Figure 4C yes Figure 4A The tensioning assembly is along Figure 4A A cross-sectional stereogram taken along line 4C-4C.

[0016] Figure 5A and Figure 5B yes Figure 3A and Figure 3BA perspective view of the switching assembly of the working assembly.

[0017] Fig. 6A yes Figure 5A and Figure 5B A stereoscopic view of a first disconnect coupling assembly and a second disconnect coupling assembly of a switching assembly.

[0018] Figure 6B yes Fig. 6A An exploded perspective view of a first disconnect coupling assembly and a second disconnect coupling assembly.

[0019] Figure 6C yes Figure 5A and Figure 5B The part of the toggle component is along the lines of Figure 5A A cross-sectional perspective view taken along line 6C-6C extending through Fig. 6A A first disconnect coupling assembly and a second disconnect coupling assembly.

[0020] Fig. 7A and Figure 7B yes Figure 5A and Figure 5B A perspective view of a trigger assembly of a switching assembly.

[0021] Fig. 8A yes Figure 3A and Figure 3B A side view of a portion of a working assembly of a tensioning assembly wherein the tensioning assembly and the trigger assembly are in their respective original positions and the first disconnect coupling assembly is in its released configuration.

[0022] Figure 8B is corresponding to Fig. 8A , but with the trigger assembly in its actuated position and the first disconnect coupling assembly in its coupled configuration.

[0023] Figure 8C It is along Figure 4C The line 8C-8C of Figure 8B sectional view of .

[0024] Fig.8D is corresponding to Figure 8B , but with the tensioning assembly in its strap insertion position.

[0025] Fig. 8E It is along Figure 4C The line 8C-8C of Fig.8D sectional view of .

[0026] Figure 8F is corresponding to Fig. 8A sectional view of . DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0027] Although the systems, devices, and methods described herein may be implemented in various forms, the drawings illustrate and the specification describes certain exemplary and non-limiting embodiments. Not all of the components shown in the drawings and described in the specification may be required, and some implementations may include additional, different, or fewer components. The arrangement and type of components; the shape, size, and material of the components; and the manner in which the components are connected may vary without departing from the spirit or scope of the claims. Unless otherwise specified, any direction mentioned in the specification reflects the orientation of the components shown in the corresponding drawings and does not limit the scope of the present disclosure. Further, terms related to installation methods such as mounting, connecting, etc. are not intended to be limited to direct installation methods, but should be broadly interpreted to include indirect and operative installation methods, connections, etc. This specification is intended to be regarded as a whole and interpreted in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure and as understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art.

[0028] Figures 1A to 8F An exemplary embodiment of a strapping device and certain components and parts thereof of the present disclosure is shown in the form of a strapping tool 50 (sometimes referred to as a "tool" in the detailed description for the sake of brevity). FIG. 2A to FIG. 2C As shown, the strapping tool 50 is configured to perform a strapping cycle to tension and seal a strap S (a plastic strap in this example embodiment) around a load L on a pallet P to form a tensioned strap loop that secures the load L to the pallet P. An operator pulls the strap S from a strap supply (not shown) and wraps the strap around the load L and through an opening in the pallet P until a lower portion LP of the strap S (which includes a leading end of the strap S) is positioned below an upper portion UP of the strap S, as shown. Figure 2A The operator then introduces the overlapping upper and lower portions UP and LP of the strap S into the strapping tool 50 and actuates one or more buttons to start the strapping cycle. Figure 2B As shown, the motor drives the tensioning assembly to perform a tensioning cycle during which the strapping tool 50 tensions the strap S around the load L. Once the preset tension is reached in the strap S, as shown in FIG. Figure 2C As shown, the motor drives the blocking assembly to perform a blocking cycle, during which the strapping tool 50 connects the upper portion UP and the lower portion LP of the strip S to each other via friction welding to form a strip joint SJ, as shown in FIG. Figure 2D As shown, and a strip S is cut from the strip supply source.

[0029] The strapping tool 50 includes a housing 100 ( Figure 1A and Figure 1B )、Working component 200( Figure 3A and Figure 3B )、Display component 1300( Figure 1ATo FIG. 2), actuating assembly 1400 ( Figures 1A to 1C )、Power supply 1500、Controller 1600( Figure 1C ) and one or more sensors 1700 ( Figure 1C ).

[0030] exist Figure 1A and Figure 1B The housing 100 shown in FIG. 1 is formed of a plurality of components (not individually labeled) that collectively at least partially enclose and / or support some (or all) of the other components and parts of the strapping tool 50. In this example embodiment, the housing 100 includes a front housing section 110, a rear housing section 120, a motor housing section 130, and a handle section 150. The front housing section 110 at least partially encloses and / or supports at least some of the components of the working assembly 200 and the actuation assembly 1400. The rear housing section 120 at least partially encloses and / or supports at least some of the components of the display assembly 1300 and defines a receptacle that is sized, shaped, and otherwise configured to receive and at least partially enclose and / or support the power supply 1500 and the controller 1600. The motor housing section 130 extends between and connects the bottom of the front housing section 110 and the bottom of the rear housing section 120, and at least partially encloses and / or supports at least some of the components of the working assembly 200 (including the motor 1100). The handle housing section 150 extends between and connects the top of the front housing section 110 and the top of the rear housing section 120, and defines a handle used by an operator. This is merely an example, and in other embodiments, the components of the strapping tool may be supported and / or enclosed by any suitable portion of the housing 100. The housing 100 may be formed of any suitable number of components joined together in any suitable manner. In this example embodiment, the housing 100 is formed of plastic, but in other embodiments, the housing may be made of any other suitable material.

[0031] exist Figure 3A and Figure 3B The working assembly 200, best shown in FIG. 1 , includes most of the components of the strapping tool 50 that are configured to perform a strapping cycle to tension the strap around a load, attach overlapping portions of the strap to each other, and cut the strap from a supply of strap. The working assembly 200 includes: a support 300; a tensioning assembly 400; a switching assembly 500 including a first disconnect coupling assembly 600, a second disconnect coupling assembly 700, and a trigger assembly 800; a blocking assembly 900; a transmission 1000; and a motor 1100.

[0032] exist Figure 3A and Figure 3B The support 300 best shown in FIG. 1 is used as a common mounting member for the tensioning assembly 400, the switching assembly 500, the lockout assembly 900, the transmission 1000, and the motor 1100. The support 300 includes a base 310, a first tensioning and switching assembly mounting member 320 and a second tensioning and switching assembly mounting member 330 extending from the base 310, and a lockout and transmission assembly mounting member 340 extending from the base 310. The base 310 supports the tensioning plate 312 under the tensioning wheel 400w of the tensioning assembly 400 (described below) and supports the welding plate 314 under the welding shoe 912 of the lockout assembly 900 (described below).

[0033] exist FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C The tensioning assembly 400, best shown in FIG. 1 , is operable in the following modes: (1) a tensioning mode for tensioning the strap around a load during a tensioning cycle; and (2) a rocker movement mode for moving the tensioning assembly 400 relative to the support 300. The tensioning assembly 400 includes a rocker 400r, a tensioning assembly gear arrangement 400g, and a tensioning wheel 400w driven by the tensioning assembly gear arrangement 400g. The tensioning wheel 400w is supported by the tensioning assembly gear arrangement 400g, which in turn is supported by the rocker 400r.

[0034] The tensioning assembly gear device 400g includes: a driven shaft 410; a tensioning assembly flywheel 412; a first set of planetary gears 414a, 414b and 414c; a rocker moving ring gear 416; a rocker moving intermediate gear 418, a rollback ring gear 420; a rollback intermediate gear 422; a second set of planetary gears 424a, 424b, 424c and 424d; a second bracket 426; a bushing 428; a third bracket 430; a third set of planetary gears 432a, 432b and 432c; and bearings 405b1, 405b2 and 405b3. Certain components of the tensioning assembly gear device 400g are connected to the tensioning wheel rotation axis A. 400wThe tensioning assembly gear device 400g is centered, and certain components of the tensioning assembly gear device 400g can rotate around the tensioning wheel rotation axis. The driven shaft 410 includes a shaft portion 410a and a first sun gear 410b at one end of the shaft portion 410a. The first set of planetary gears 414a to 414c are rotatably mounted to the rocker 400r (for example, via corresponding bearings and mounting pins). The rocker moving ring gear 416 includes internal teeth 416it and external teeth 416ot. The rollback ring gear 420 includes internal teeth 420it and external teeth 420ot. The second seat 426 includes: a second planetary gear carrier 426a, a second set of planetary gears 424a to 424d are rotatably mounted to the second planetary gear carrier (for example, via corresponding bearings and mounting pins); and a second sun gear 426b, which can rotate together with the planetary gear carrier 426a (here formed integrally with the planetary gear carrier) around the tensioning wheel rotation axis A. 400w The third set of planetary gears 432a to 432c are rotatably mounted to the third mount 430 (eg, via corresponding bearings and mounting pins).

[0035] The shaft portion 410a of the driven shaft 410 extends through and engages with a tensioning assembly flywheel 412, which is itself supported by and positioned within a hole defined through the rocker 400r. The tensioning assembly flywheel 412 is configured to permit the driven shaft 410 to rotate in a tensioning rotational direction T (referred to as the tensioning direction T) relative to the rocker 400r, and to prevent the driven shaft 410 from rotating in a rolling direction T. REV The first sun gear 410b of the driven shaft 410 is meshed with the first set of planetary gears 414a to 414c. The first set of planetary gears 414a to 414c are meshed with the inner teeth 416it of the rocker moving ring gear 416. The bearing 405b1 rotatably supports the rocker moving ring gear 416 and separates it from the rocker 400r. The first sun gear 410b of the driven shaft 410 is also meshed with the second set of planetary gears 424a to 424d and drivingly engages the second set of planetary gears. The second set of planetary gears 424a to 424d are meshed with the inner teeth 420it of the rollback ring gear 420. The bushing 428 rotatably supports the rollback ring gear 420 and separates it from the third mount 430. The third mount 430 is fixedly mounted to the rocker 400r. The second sun gear 426b of the second mount 426 meshes with and drivingly engages the third set of planetary gears 532a to 532c. The tensioner 400w is rotatably mounted to the third mount 430 via bearings 405b2 and 405b3 so that the third set of planetary gears 432a to 432c mesh with the internal teeth (not labeled) of the tensioner 400w. The tensioner 400w is longitudinally (at the tensioner axis A) via suitable retainers and suitable fasteners (not shown for clarity) 400wdirection) to hold it in place.

[0036] The tensioning assembly 400 is movably mounted to the support 300 via the rocker 400r and the tensioning assembly mounting shaft 390, and is configured to pivot relative to the support 300 (particularly relative to the base 310 of the support 300) and about the rocker pivot axis A under the control of the motor 1100 (described below). 400r In the tensioned position ( FIG. 8A to FIG. 8C and Figure 8F ) and the stripe insertion position ( Fig.8D and Fig. 8E ). When the tensioning assembly 400 is in the tensioning position, the tensioning wheel 400w is adjacent to the tensioning plate 312 of the support 300 (or adjacent to the upper surface of the upper portion of the strap if the strap has been inserted into the strapping tool 50). When the tensioning assembly 400 is in the strap insertion position, the tensioning wheel 400w is spaced apart from the tensioning plate 312 to enable the overlapping upper and lower portions of the strap to be inserted between the tensioning wheel 400w and the tensioning plate 312. The weight of the tensioning assembly 400 and one or more springs or other biasing elements (not shown) bias the tensioning assembly 400 to the tensioning position.

[0037] Specifically, the tensioning assembly mounting shaft 390 extends through the opening defined by the first tensioning and switching assembly mounting member 320 and the second tensioning and switching assembly mounting member 330 through the support member 300 and through the opening defined by the first mounting ear 400r1 and the second mounting ear 400r2 of the rocker 400r. The mounting ears 400r1 and 400r2 of the rocker 400r are positioned between the mounting members 320 and 330 of the support member 300. The rocker moving intermediate gear 418 and the rolling intermediate gear 422 are rotatably mounted to the tensioning assembly mounting shaft 390 and positioned between the mounting ears 400r1 and 400r2 of the rocker 400r, so that the teeth of the rocker moving intermediate gear 418 mesh with the outer teeth 416ot of the rocker moving ring gear 416, and the teeth of the rolling intermediate gear 422 mesh with the outer teeth 422ot of the rolling ring gear 422.

[0038] exist Figure 5A and Figure 5B The switch assembly 500, best shown in FIG. 1 , is configured to interact with the tensioning assembly 400 to control whether the tensioning assembly is in the tensioning mode or the rocker movement mode. The switch assembly 500 includes a switch assembly mount 505, a first disconnect coupling assembly 600, a second disconnect coupling assembly 700, and a trigger assembly 800. The switch assembly mount 505 is attached to the tensioning and switch assembly mounts 320 and 330 of the support 300 above the tensioning assembly 400 and serves as a common mount for the first disconnect coupling assembly 600 and the second disconnect coupling assembly 700 and the trigger assembly 800.

[0039] exist FIG. 6A to FIG. 6C The first disconnect coupling assembly 600, best shown in FIG. 1 , controls whether the rocker lever moves the intermediate gear 418 about the rocker lever axis A. 400r This in turn controls whether the tensioning assembly 400 is in tensioning mode or rocker movement mode. Typically, when the first disconnect coupling assembly 600 is in the coupled configuration, the first disconnect coupling assembly 600 prevents the rocker from moving the intermediate gear 418 about the rocker axis A. 400r Rotation, and the operation of the motor 1100 moves the tensioning assembly 400 from the tensioning position to the strap insertion position. Conversely, when the first disconnect coupling assembly 600 is in the release configuration, the rocker moves the intermediate gear 418 around the rocker axis A 400r Rotation and operation of the motor 1100 does not move the tensioning assembly 400 from the tensioning position to the strap insertion position. The first disconnect assembly 600 includes a disconnect assembly shaft 610, a first engageable element 620, a second engageable element 630, an expandable element 640, a sleeve 650, and a threaded fastener 660.

[0040] The disconnect coupling assembly shaft 610 includes a body 612 having a first end 612a with an irregular cross section and a second end 612b with teeth extending radially around its circumference. A first support 614 extends from the first end 612a. The first engageable element 620 includes a tubular bushing having a cylindrical outer surface and an inner surface having a periphery matching the periphery of the first end 612a of the body 612 of the disconnect coupling assembly shaft 610. The second engageable element 630 includes a tubular body 632 and an annular flange 634 at one end of the body 632. An opening 634o is defined through the flange 634. The expandable element 640 includes a torsion spring having a first end 640a and a second end 640b. The sleeve 650 includes a tubular body 652 having teeth 654 extending around its periphery. The body 652 defines an opening 652o.

[0041] As in Figure 6C As best shown in FIG. 1 , the first engageable element 620 is mounted on the first end 612a of the body 612 of the disconnect coupling assembly shaft 610 so as to rotate therewith about the disconnect coupling assembly axis A. 600,700Rotation. The second engageable element 630 surrounds the first support 614 of the body 612 of the disconnect coupling assembly shaft 610 and is positioned so that the body 632 is adjacent to and coaxial with the first engageable element 620. The expandable element 640 surrounds the first engageable element 620 and the body 632 of the second engageable element 630. The outer diameter of the first engageable element 620 is substantially the same as the outer diameter of the body 632 of the second engageable element 630 and is equal to or greater than the static inner diameter of the expandable element 640. This means that when the first disconnect coupling assembly is in the coupled configuration (described below), the expandable element 640 applies a compressive force to the body 632 of the first engageable element 620 and the second engageable element 630 that prevents those components (and the disconnect coupling assembly shaft 610) from rotating about the disconnect coupling assembly rotation axis A. 600,700 The first and second engagable elements 630 are rotated relative to each other. The second end 640b of the expandable element 640 is received in an opening 634o defined through the flange 634 of the second engageable element 630. The disconnect assembly shaft 610, the first engageable element 620, the second engageable element 630, and at least a portion of the expandable element 640 are contained within and surrounded by the sleeve 650. The first end 640a of the expandable element is received in an opening 652o defined through the body 652 of the sleeve 650.

[0042] As in Figure 6C As best shown in FIG. 5 , the first disconnect coupling assembly 600 is mounted to the switch assembly support 505 and is operatively connected to the tensioning assembly gear arrangement 400g. More specifically, the first disconnect coupling assembly 600 is mounted to the switch assembly support 505 via a bearing 600b and a fastener 660 that fixes the second engageable element 630 in rotation relative to the switch assembly support 505 so that the second engageable element 630 (and the second end 640b of the expandable element 640 received in the opening 634o of the flange 634 of the second engageable element 630) cannot rotate relative to the switch assembly support 505 about the disconnect coupling assembly rotation axis A. 600,700 The intermediate gear 510 mounted to the switching assembly support 505 (and freely rotatable relative to the switching assembly support) operably connects the body 612 of the disconnect coupling assembly shaft 610 to the rocker moving intermediate gear 418 of the tensioning assembly gear device 400g. Specifically, the teeth on the second end 612b of the body 612 of the disconnect coupling assembly shaft 610 mesh with the teeth of the intermediate gear 510, which meshes with the teeth of the rocker moving intermediate gear 418.

[0043] The first decoupling assembly 600 has a coupled configuration and a released configuration. Figure 6CThe first disconnect coupling assembly 600 is shown in a coupled configuration. When the first disconnect coupling assembly 600 is in the coupled configuration, the expandable element 640 applies a compressive force to the bodies 632 of the first and second engageable elements 620, 630 that prevents them from rotating about the disconnect coupling assembly axis A. 600,700 Since the body 632 of the second engageable element 630 is fixed in rotation relative to the switch assembly support 505 and the disconnect coupling assembly shaft 610 is fixed in rotation relative to the first engageable element 620, the disconnect coupling assembly shaft 610 (and therefore the intermediate gear 510) is fixed in rotation relative to the switch assembly support 505. Since the intermediate gear 510 is engaged with the rocker moving intermediate gear 418, the first disconnect coupling assembly 600 prevents the rocker moving intermediate gear 418 from rotating about the rocker axis A when in the coupled configuration. 400r Rotate.

[0044] The first disconnect coupling assembly 600 can be switched from a coupled configuration to a released configuration (e.g., by a trigger assembly 800 as described below) to enable the first engageable element 620 and the disconnect coupling assembly shaft 610 to rotate about the disconnect coupling assembly rotation axis A relative to the second engageable element 630. 600,700 As explained above, the second end 640b of the second engageable element 630 and the expandable element 640 (i.e., received in the opening 634o of the flange 634 of the second engageable element 630) is fixed in rotation relative to the switching assembly support 505. In order to switch the first disconnect coupling assembly 600 from the coupled configuration to the released configuration, the sleeve 650 is rotated about the disconnect coupling assembly rotation axis A. 600,700 With respect to the switch assembly support 505, the second end 640b of the expandable element 640 and the second engageable element 630 are in the release direction R 650 Since the first end 640a of the expandable element 640 is received in the opening 652o defined in the body 652 of the sleeve 650, the first end 640a rotates with the sleeve 650. When this occurs, the inner diameter of the expandable element 640 near its first end 640a begins to expand and eventually expands sufficiently (thereby reducing the compressive force or completely eliminating the compressive force) to enable the first engageable element 620 and the disconnect assembly axis 610 to rotate relative to the second engageable element 630 (and the expandable element 640) about the disconnect assembly rotation axis A. 600,700 When the sleeve 650 is released, the first end 640a of the expandable element 640 biases the sleeve 650 to rotate in the release direction R 650 Opposite connection direction C 650The sleeve 650 is rotated upward until it reaches the coupled position (meaning that the first disconnect coupling assembly 600 returns to its coupled configuration).

[0045] exist FIG. 6A to FIG. 6C The second disconnect coupling assembly 700, best shown in FIG. 1 , controls whether the rollback ring gear 422 can be moved around the tensioner axis A. 400w Rotation. Generally, when the second disconnect coupling assembly 700 is in the coupled configuration, the second disconnect coupling assembly 600 prevents the ring gear 422 from rolling back around the tensioner axis A. 400w Rotation, which enables the motor to drive the tensioning wheel 400w to tension the strap, and enables the tensioning wheel 400w to maintain tension in the strap after the tensioning cycle is completed. Conversely, when the second disconnect coupling assembly 700 is in the released configuration, the rolling ring gear 422 can rotate around the tensioning wheel axis A 400w The rotation allows the tensioning wheel 400w to release the tension. The second disconnection assembly 700 includes a disconnection assembly shaft 710 , a first engageable element 720 , a second engageable element 730 , an expandable element 740 , a sleeve 750 , a threaded fastener 760 , and a gear 780 .

[0046] The disconnect coupling assembly shaft 710 includes a body 712 having a first end 712a with an irregular cross section and a second end 712b with teeth extending radially around its circumference. A first support 714 extends from the first end 712a. The first engageable element 720 includes a tubular bushing having a cylindrical outer surface and an inner surface having a periphery matching the periphery of the first end 712a of the body 712 of the disconnect coupling assembly shaft 710. The second engageable element 730 includes a tubular body 732 and an annular flange 734 at one end of the body 732. An opening 734o is defined through the flange 734. The expandable element 740 includes a torsion spring having a first end 740a and a second end 740b. The sleeve 750 includes a tubular body 752 having teeth 754 extending around its periphery. The body 752 defines an opening 752o.

[0047] As in Figure 6C As best shown in FIG. 1 , the first engageable element 720 is mounted on the first end 712a of the body 712 of the disconnect coupling assembly shaft 710 so as to rotate therewith about the disconnect coupling assembly axis A. 600,700Rotation. The second engageable element 730 surrounds the first support 714 of the body 712 of the disconnect coupling assembly shaft 710 and is positioned so that the body 732 is adjacent to and coaxial with the first engageable element 720. The expandable element 740 surrounds the first engageable element 720 and the body 732 of the second engageable element 730. The outer diameter of the first engageable element 720 is substantially the same as the outer diameter of the body 732 of the second engageable element 730 and is equal to or greater than the static inner diameter of the expandable element 740. This means that when the second disconnect coupling assembly is in the coupled configuration (described below), the expandable element 740 applies a compressive force to the body 732 of the first engageable element 720 and the second engageable element 730, which prevents those components (and the disconnect coupling assembly shaft 710) from rotating about the disconnect coupling assembly rotation axis A. 600,700 The first and second engageable elements 730 and 740 are connected to the first and second engageable elements 730 and 740, respectively. The first and second engageable elements 730 and 740 are connected to the first and second engageable elements 730 and 740, respectively. The first and second engageable elements 730 and 740 are connected to the first and second engageable elements 730 and 740, respectively. The first and second engageable elements 730 and 740 are connected to the first and second engageable elements 730 and 740, respectively. The second and second engageable elements 730 and 740 are connected to the first and second engageable elements 730 and 740, respectively. The first ...

[0048] As in Figure 6C As best shown in FIG. 5 , the second disconnect coupling assembly 700 is mounted to the switch assembly support 505 and is operatively connected to the tensioning assembly gear arrangement 400g. More specifically, the second disconnect coupling assembly 700 is mounted to the switch assembly support 505 via a bearing 700b and a fastener 760 that fixes the second engageable element 730 in rotation relative to the switch assembly support 505 so that the second engageable element 730 (and the second end 740b of the expandable element 740 received in the opening 734o of the flange 734 of the second engageable element 730) cannot rotate relative to the switch assembly support 505 about the disconnect coupling assembly rotation axis A. 600,700 The gear 780 operably connects the body 712 of the disconnect coupling assembly shaft 710 to the rollback ring gear 422 of the tensioning assembly gear device 400g. Specifically, the teeth on the gear 780 mesh with the outer teeth 422ot of the rollback ring gear 422.

[0049] The second decoupling assembly 700 has a coupled configuration and a released configuration. Figure 6CThe second disconnect coupling assembly 700 is shown in a coupled configuration. When the second disconnect coupling assembly 700 is in the coupled configuration, the expandable element 740 applies a compressive force to the body 732 of the first engageable element 720 and the second engageable element 730, which prevents them from rotating about the disconnect coupling assembly axis A. 600,700 Since the body 732 of the second engageable element 730 is fixed in rotation relative to the switch assembly support 505 and the disconnect coupling assembly shaft 710 is fixed in rotation with the first engageable element 720, the disconnect coupling assembly shaft 710 (and therefore the gear 780) is fixed in rotation relative to the switch assembly support 505. Since the gear 780 is meshed with the rollback annular gear 422, the second disconnect coupling assembly 700 prevents the rollback annular gear 422 from rotating about the tensioner axis A when in the coupled configuration. 400w Rotate.

[0050] The second disconnect coupling assembly 700 can be switched from a coupled configuration to a released configuration (e.g., by a trigger assembly 800 as described below) to enable the first engageable element 720 and the disconnect coupling assembly shaft 710 to rotate about the disconnect coupling assembly axis A relative to the second engageable element 730. 600,700 As explained above, the second end 740b of the second engageable element 730 and the expandable element 740 (i.e., received in the opening 734o of the flange 734 of the second engageable element 730) is fixed in rotation relative to the switching assembly support 505. In order to switch the second disconnect coupling assembly 700 from the coupled configuration to the released configuration, the sleeve 750 is rotated about the disconnect coupling assembly rotation axis A. 600,700 With respect to the switch assembly support 505, the second end 740b of the expandable element 740 and the second engageable element 730 are in the release direction R 750 Since the first end 740a of the expandable element 740 is received in the opening 752o defined in the body 752 of the sleeve 750, the first end 740a rotates with the sleeve 750. When this occurs, the inner diameter of the expandable element 740 near its first end 740a begins to expand, and eventually expands sufficiently (thereby reducing the compressive force or completely eliminating the compressive force) to enable the first engageable element 720 and the disconnect assembly axis 710 to rotate relative to the second engageable element 730 (and the expandable element 740) about the disconnect assembly rotation axis A. 600,700 When the sleeve 750 is released, the first end 740a of the expandable element 740 biases the sleeve 750 to rotate in the release direction R 750 Opposite connection direction C 750 The second disconnect coupling assembly is rotated upward until the sleeve 750 reaches the coupled position (meaning that the second disconnect coupling assembly returns to its coupled configuration).

[0051] exist Fig. 7A and Figure 7B The trigger assembly 800 best shown in FIG is operably connected to the first disconnect coupling assembly 600 and the second disconnect coupling assembly 700 to switch them between their coupled configuration and released configuration. The trigger assembly 800 includes a trigger assembly body 810, a first disconnect coupling assembly actuator 820 and a second disconnect coupling assembly actuator 830.

[0052] The trigger assembly body 810 includes a trigger 812, a first mounting ear 814 and a second mounting ear 816 extending from the trigger 812, and an actuating rod 818 extending between the mounting ears 814 and 816. The first mounting ear 814 and the second mounting ear 816 define aligned openings 814o and 816o therethrough, respectively. The first disconnect coupling assembly actuator 820 includes an L-shaped actuating arm 822, a gear arm 824 connected to the actuating arm 822, and a gear 826 at a free end of the gear arm 824. Similarly, the second disconnect coupling assembly actuator 830 includes an L-shaped actuating arm 832, a gear arm 834 connected to the actuating arm 832, and a gear 836 at a free end of the gear arm 834.

[0053] The first mounting ear 814 and the second mounting ear 816 of the trigger assembly body 810 are pivotally mounted to the switch assembly mount 505 via a pivot pin (not labeled). The first disconnect assembly actuator 820 and the second disconnect assembly actuator 830 are pivotally mounted to an actuator mounting pin 890 that extends through openings 814o and 816o defined through the first mounting ear 814 and the second mounting ear 816 of the trigger assembly body 810 and is secured (such as via a retaining ring) to the switch assembly mount 505. The actuating arms 822 and 832 of the first disconnect assembly actuator 820 and the second disconnect assembly actuator 830 are above the actuating rod 818.

[0054] The trigger assembly body 810 can be circumferentially axially spaced relative to the switch assembly mounting member 505. 810 In the original position ( Fig. 8A and Figure 8F ) and actuation position ( FIG. 8B to FIG. 8E). A biasing element (not shown) (such as a compression spring) biases the trigger assembly body 810 to the home position. When the trigger assembly body 810 is in the home position, the actuator mounting pin 890 is positioned at the top of the openings 814o and 816o defined by the first mounting ear 814 and the second mounting ear 816 through the trigger assembly body 810. Conversely, when the trigger assembly body 810 is in the actuated position, the actuator mounting pin 890 is positioned at the bottom of the openings 814o and 816o.

[0055] The first disconnect coupling assembly actuator 820 and the second disconnect coupling assembly actuator 830 can be moved relative to the switching assembly mounting member 505 about the actuator axis A. 820,830 At the corresponding original position ( Fig. 8A and Figure 8F ) and the corresponding actuation position ( FIG. 8B to FIG. 8E ) are pivoted between the first disconnect coupling assembly actuator 820 and the second disconnect coupling assembly actuator 830. A biasing element (not shown) (such as a compression spring) biases the first disconnect coupling assembly actuator 820 and the second disconnect coupling assembly actuator 830 to their respective original positions. When the trigger assembly body 810 is in its original position, the first disconnect coupling assembly actuator 820 and the second disconnect coupling assembly actuator 830 are in their respective original positions. The trigger assembly body 810 is operably connected to the first disconnect coupling assembly actuator 820 and the second disconnect coupling assembly actuator 830 to move the first disconnect coupling assembly actuator 820 and the second disconnect coupling assembly actuator 830 from their respective original positions to their respective actuation positions. Specifically, when the trigger assembly body 810 moves from its original position toward its actuation position, the actuation rod 818 engages the actuation arms 822 and 832 of the first disconnect coupling assembly actuator 820 and the second disconnect coupling assembly actuator 830 and forces them to move around the actuator axis A. 820,830 Pivot until they (and the trigger assembly body 810) reach their respective actuated positions.

[0056] The first disconnect coupling assembly actuator 820 and the second disconnect coupling assembly actuator 830 are positioned, oriented, and otherwise configured to control which configuration the first disconnect coupling assembly 600 and the second disconnect coupling assembly 700 are respectively in. As described in detail below, the use of the first disconnect coupling assembly actuator 820 and the second disconnect coupling assembly actuator 830 and the first disconnect coupling assembly 600 and the second disconnect coupling assembly 700 enables the tensioning assembly 400 to switch between the tensioning mode and the rocker movement mode, and thus enables the motor 1100 to perform two different functions depending on which disconnect coupling assembly is in the coupled configuration and which is in the released configuration when rotating the driven shaft 410 in the tensioning direction T.

[0057] Turning to the first disconnect coupling assembly actuator 820, when the first disconnect coupling assembly actuator 820 is in its original position, as shown in FIG. Figure 8F As shown, the first disconnect coupling assembly 600 is in its released configuration. The teeth of the gear 826 mesh with the teeth 654 of the sleeve 650 to hold the sleeve 650 in its released position and prevent the sleeve 650 from rotating back to its coupled position. When the first disconnect coupling assembly actuator 820 moves from its original position to its actuated position, as shown in FIG. Figure 8C As shown, the gear 826 moves to enable the sleeve 650 to move in the coupling direction C 650 The first disconnect assembly 600 is rotated back to its coupled position so that the first disconnect assembly 600 is in its coupled configuration. In this embodiment, the gear 826 disengages from the teeth 654 of the sleeve 650 near the end of its movement. When the first disconnect assembly actuator 820 moves from its actuated position back to its original position, the gear 826 again engages with the teeth 654 of the sleeve 650 and causes the sleeve 650 to move in the release direction R. 650 The sleeve 650 is rotated upward until the sleeve 650 reaches its release position and the first disconnect coupling assembly 600 is in its released configuration.

[0058] Turning to the second disconnect coupling assembly actuator 830, when the second disconnect coupling assembly actuator 830 is in its original position, as shown in FIG. Fig. 8A As shown, the second disconnect coupling assembly 700 is in its coupled configuration. The teeth of the gear 836 are disengaged from the teeth 754 of the sleeve 750, and the sleeve 750 is in its coupled position. When the second disconnect coupling assembly actuator 830 moves from its original position to its actuated position, as shown in FIG. Figure 8B As shown, the gear 836 meshes with the teeth 754 of the sleeve 750 and causes the sleeve 750 to move in the release direction R 750 The sleeve 750 is rotated on the coupling direction C until the sleeve 750 reaches its release position and the second disconnect coupling assembly 700 is in its release configuration. When the second disconnect coupling assembly actuator 830 moves from its actuation position back to its original position, the gear 836 moves to enable the sleeve 750 to move in the coupling direction C. 750 The second disconnection assembly 700 is in its coupled configuration. In this embodiment, the gear 836 is disengaged from the teeth 754 of the sleeve 750 near the end of its movement.

[0059] exist Figure 3AThe lockout assembly 900, best shown in FIG. 1 , is configured to attach overlapping portions of the straps to each other via friction welding to form a tensioned strap loop around a load during a lockout cycle. The lockout assembly 900 includes a welding arm 910, a welding shoe 912, a cutter 914, a linkage 916, and an eccentric shaft (not shown). The welding shoe 912 is slidably mounted to the welding arm 910 so that the welding shoe 912 can slide relative to the welding arm 910. The cutter 914 is mounted to the welding arm 910. The welding arm 910 is pivotally mounted to the lockout and transmission assembly mounting 340 of the support 300 and can be pivotally mounted relative to the support 300 and the welding plate 314 about the welding arm axis A. 910 In the original position ( Figure 3A ) and a welding position (not shown) in which the welding shoe 912 is spaced apart from the welding plate 314 and in which the welding shoe 912 is adjacent to the welding plate 314 and positioned to weld the strip. The linkage 916 operably connects the transmission 1000 to the welding arm 910 so that the transmission 1000 can move the welding arm 910 from the released home position to the welding position (and vice versa in some embodiments). The eccentric is operably connected to the welding shoe 912 and is configured to cause the welding shoe 912 to oscillate when rotated. The toothed belt 990 operably connects the transmission 1000 to the eccentric to cause the eccentric to rotate.

[0060] exist Figure 3A and Figure 3B The transmission 1000, best shown in FIG. 1 , is driven by a motor 1100, operably connected to the tensioning assembly 400 and configured to rotate the tensioning wheel 400w in a tensioning direction T to tension the strap and pivot the tensioning assembly 400 to its strap insertion position, and operably connected to the blocking assembly 900 and configured to cause the blocking assembly 900 to attach overlapping portions of the strap to each other. The transmission 1000 includes a transmission gear arrangement 1010 including a drive gear 1012 (a pinion bevel gear in this example embodiment) and an offset coupling 1020 including a driven gear 1022 (a bevel gear in this example embodiment). The transmission gear arrangement 1010 and the offset coupling 1020 are mounted to the blocking and transmission assembly mounting 340 of the support so that the drive gear 1012 meshes with the driven gear 1022.

[0061] The transmission gear arrangement 1010 includes suitable components (such as gears, bearings, and flywheels) that transmit the rotational movement of the output shaft of the motor 1100 in a first drive direction to the drive gear 1012 to rotate the drive gear 1012 (but do not drive any components of the lockout assembly 900 in this example embodiment). The drive gear 1012 drives the driven gear 1022 to rotate in the tensioning direction T, and other components of the offset coupling transmit the rotational movement of the driven gear 1022 to the driven shaft 410 of the tensioning assembly 400 to rotate the driven shaft 410 in the tensioning direction T. The components of the transmission gear arrangement 1010 transmit the rotational movement of the output shaft of the motor 1100 in a second drive direction opposite to the first drive direction to: (1) the linkage 916 of the lockout assembly 900 to move the welding arm 910 from its home position to its welding position; and (2) the toothed belt 990 to rotate the eccentric and oscillate the welding shoe 912 (but do not drive the drive gear 912 in this example embodiment).

[0062] This is merely one example transmission assembly, and the strapping tool may include any suitable transmission assembly or assemblies that operably connect one or more motors to the tensioning assembly and the locking assembly to drive these assemblies.

[0063] exist Figure 3A and Figure 3B The motor 1100 best shown in FIG. 1 is operably connected to the tensioning assembly 400 and the locking assembly 900 (via the transmission 1000) and is configured to drive those components as explained herein. The motor 1100 includes the output shaft (not shown) mentioned above. In this example embodiment, the motor 1100 is an electric motor, but can be any suitable motor.

[0064] exist Figures 1A to 1C The display assembly 1300 shown in FIG. 1 includes a suitable display screen 1310 having a touch panel 1320. The display screen 1310 is configured to display information about the strapping tool 50 (at least in this embodiment), and the touch screen 1320 is configured to receive operator input, such as a desired strap tension and a desired weld cooling time. A display controller (not shown) can control the display screen 1310 and the touch panel 1320, and in these embodiments, the display controller is communicatively connected to the controller 1600 to send signals to the controller 1600 and receive signals from the controller 1600. Other embodiments of the strapping tool do not include a touch panel. Still other embodiments of the strapping tool do not include a display assembly. Certain embodiments of the strapping tool include a separate button panel rather than a touch panel located below or integrated with the display screen.

[0065] exist Figures 1A to 1CThe actuation assembly 1400 shown in FIG. 1 is configured to receive operator input to initiate operation of a tensioning cycle and a locking cycle. In this example embodiment, the actuation assembly 1400 includes a first button actuator 1410 and a second button actuator 1420 that initiate a tensioning cycle and / or a locking cycle depending on the operating mode of the strapping tool 50, as described below. Other embodiments of the strapping tool 50 do not have the actuation assembly 1400, but instead incorporate the functionality of the actuation assembly into the display assembly 1300. For example, in one of these embodiments, two areas of the touch panel define virtual buttons that have the same functionality as mechanical button actuators.

[0066] exist Figure 1C The controller 1600 shown in the figure includes (one or more) processing devices that are communicatively connected to (one or more) memory devices. For example, the controller can be a programmable logic controller. The processing device can include any suitable processing device, such as but not limited to a general-purpose processor, a special-purpose processor, a digital signal processor, one or more microprocessors, one or more microprocessors associated with a digital signal processor core, one or more application-specific integrated circuits, one or more field programmable gate array circuits, one or more integrated circuits, and / or a state machine. The memory device can include any suitable memory device, such as but not limited to a read-only memory, a random access memory, one or more digital registers, a cache memory, one or more semiconductor memory devices, magnetic media such as an integrated hard disk and / or a removable memory, magneto-optical media, and / or optical media. The memory device stores instructions that can be executed by the processing device to control the operation of the strapping tool 50. The controller 1600 is communicatively and operably connected to the motor 1100, the display assembly 1300, the actuation assembly 1400, and (one or more) sensors 1700, and is configured to receive signals from these components and control these components. Controller 1600 may also be communicatively connected to an external device, such as a computing device (eg, via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, near field communication, or other suitable wireless communication protocol) to send and receive information to and from the external device.

[0067] The controller 1600 is configured to operate the strapping tool in one of three operating modes to perform a strapping cycle: (1) a manual operating mode; (2) a semi-automatic operating mode; and (3) an automatic operating mode. In the manual operating mode, the controller 1600 operates the motor 1100 to rotate the tensioning wheel 400w in response to the first button actuator 1410 being actuated and maintained in its actuated state. The controller 1600 operates the motor 1100 to cause the locking assembly 900 to perform a locking cycle in response to the second button actuator 1420 being actuated. In the semi-automatic operating mode, the controller 1600 operates the motor 1100 to rotate the tensioning wheel 400w in response to the first button actuator 1410 being actuated and maintained in its actuated state. Once the controller 1600 determines that the tension in the strap reaches the (predetermined) desired strap tension, the controller 1600 automatically operates the motor 1100 to cause the locking assembly 900 to perform a locking cycle (without requiring additional input from the operator). In the automatic operating mode, the controller 1600 operates the motor 1100 to rotate the tensioning wheel 400w in response to the first button actuator 1410 being actuated. Once the controller 1600 determines that the tension in the strap reaches the (predetermined) desired strap tension, the controller 1600 automatically operates the motor 1100 to cause the locking assembly 900 to perform a locking cycle (without requiring additional input from the operator).

[0068] The sensor 1700 includes any suitable sensors, such as microswitches, optical sensors, ultrasonic sensors, magnetic position sensors, etc., which are configured to detect the position of certain components of the strapping tool 50 and send appropriate signals to the controller 1600. The sensor 1700 may include, for example: one or more tensioning assembly position sensors configured to detect when the tensioning assembly 400 is in its tensioned position and / or its strap insertion position; one or more trigger position sensors configured to detect when the trigger assembly body 810 is in its original position and / or its actuated position; and one or more actuator sensors configured to detect the actuation of the first button actuator 1410 and the second button actuator 1420.

[0069] The power supply 1500 is electrically connected (via suitable wiring and other components) to several components of the strapping tool 50 and is configured to supply power to several components of the strapping tool, including the motor 910, the display assembly 1300, the actuation assembly 1400, the controller 1600, and the sensor(s) 1700. In this exemplary embodiment, the power supply 1500 includes a rechargeable battery (such as a lithium-ion or nickel-cadmium battery), although in other embodiments the power supply may be any other suitable power supply. The size and shape of the power supply 1500 are designed and otherwise configured to be received in a receiving seat defined by the rear housing section 120 of the housing 100. The strapping tool 50 includes one or more power supply fixing devices (not shown) to releasably lock the power supply 1500 in place when the power supply 1500 is received in the receiving seat. Actuation of the release device of the strapping tool 50 or the power supply 1500 unlocks the power supply 1500 from the housing 100 and enables the operator to remove the power supply 1500 from the receiving seat.

[0070] The formation of a tensioned strap loop around a load using the strapping tool 50 is described below. Initially, the tensioning assembly 400 is in its tensioned position, the trigger body 810 is in its original position (meaning the first disconnect assembly 600 is in its release configuration and the second disconnect assembly 700 is in its coupled configuration), and the welding arm 910 is in its original position, as Fig. 8A shown. For the purposes of this example, the strapping tool 50 is in the automatic mode.

[0071] The operator first pulls the front end of the strap from a strap supply source (not shown), wraps the strap around the load, and positions the front end of the strap S below another part of the strap to form an upper part and a lower part of the strap. Then, the operator pulls the trigger 812, and in doing so moves the trigger body 810 from its original position to the actuated position, as Figure 8B and Figure 8C shown. When this occurs, and as described above, the first disconnect assembly actuator 820 switches the first disconnect assembly 600 from the release configuration to the coupled configuration, and the second disconnect assembly actuator 830 switches the second disconnect assembly 700 from the coupled configuration to the release configuration. Once one of the sensors 1700 detects that the trigger body 810 has reached the actuated position, the controller 1600 controls the motor 1100 to rotate the output shaft in a first driving direction.

[0072] As explained above, the transmission 1000 transfers this rotational movement of the output shaft to the drive shaft 410 of the tensioning assembly 400 and causes the drive shaft to rotate in the tensioning direction T. This causes the first sun gear 410b to rotate about the tensioning wheel axis of rotation A in the tensioning direction T400w The first sun gear 410b drives the first set of planetary gears 414a to 414c. Since the first set of planetary gears 414a to 414c rotates around the tensioner axis A 400w The rotational aspect is fixed, so they drive the rocker to move the ring gear 416 in the tensioning direction about the tensioning wheel rotation axis A. 400w Since the first disconnect coupling assembly 600 is in its coupled configuration, the rocker moving intermediate gear 418 is fixed in rotation. This causes the rocker moving ring gear 416 to "climb" the rocker moving intermediate gear 418, as shown in FIG. Fig.8D and Fig. 8E As shown, the tensioning assembly 400 is lifted toward its strap insertion position. When this occurs, the first sun gear 410b also drives the second set of planetary gears 424a to 424d. Since the second disconnect coupling assembly 700 is in its released configuration, the rollback ring gear 420 can rotate about the tensioning wheel axis A. 400w The rotation of the second set of planetary gears 424a to 424d causes the return ring gear 420 to rotate around the tensioning wheel rotation axis A in the tensioning direction. 400w The controller 1600 controls the motor 1100 to stop rotating the output shaft 410, rather than rotating the second mount 426 (and the tensioning wheel 400w) (although there may be a small amount of rotation due to the drag torque). Once one of the sensors 1700 detects that the tensioning assembly 400 has reached its strap insertion position, the controller 1600 controls the motor 1100 to stop rotating the output shaft. The tensioning assembly flywheel 412 prevents the driven shaft 410 from reversing, thereby ensuring that the tensioning assembly 400 remains in the strap insertion position as long as the trigger assembly body 810 remains in the actuated position. Accordingly, the tensioning assembly gear arrangement 400g operatively connects the motor 1100 and the transmission 1000 to the tensioning assembly 400 to move the tensioning assembly 400 from its tensioning position to its strap insertion position.

[0073] While holding the trigger assembly body 810 in its actuated position, the operator introduces the overlapping upper and lower portions of the strap between the tensioning wheel 400w and the tensioning plate 312 and between the welding shoe 912 and the welding plate 314. The operator then releases the trigger assembly body 810, which causes the various biasing elements to force the trigger assembly body 810 back to its original position. When this occurs, and as described above, the first disconnect coupling assembly actuator 820 switches the first disconnect coupling assembly 600 from the coupled configuration to the released configuration, and the second disconnect coupling assembly actuator 830 switches the second disconnect coupling assembly 700 from the released configuration to the coupled configuration. When the first disconnect assembly actuator 820 switches to the released configuration, it enables the rocker movement intermediate gear 418 to rotate freely, which (via the weight and biasing elements of the tensioning assembly 400) enables the tensioning assembly 400 to move back to its tensioning position, so that the tensioning wheel 400w engages the top surface of the upper portion of the strip and forces the bottom surface of the lower portion of the strip against the tensioning plate 312.

[0074] The operator then actuates the first button actuator 1410 to start the strapping cycle. In response, the controller 1600 starts the tensioning cycle by controlling the motor 1100 to rotate the output shaft in the first rotational direction. As explained above, the transmission 1000 transmits this rotational movement of the output shaft to the drive shaft 410 of the tensioning assembly 400 and rotates the drive shaft in the tensioning direction T. This causes the first sun gear 410b to rotate in the tensioning direction around the tensioning wheel rotation axis A. 400w The first sun gear 410b drives the first set of planetary gears 414a to 414c. Since the first set of planetary gears 414a to 414c rotates around the tensioner axis A 400w The rotational aspect is fixed, so they drive the rocker to move the ring gear 416 in the tensioning direction about the tensioning wheel rotation axis A. 400w Since the first disconnect coupling assembly 600 is in its released configuration, the rocker moving intermediate gear 418 is freely rotatable, and the rocker moving ring gear 416 drives the rocker moving intermediate gear 418 to rotate, as shown in FIG. Figure 8F shown.

[0075] When this happens, the first sun gear 410b also drives the second set of planetary gears 424a to 424d. Since the second disconnect coupling assembly 700 is in its coupled configuration, it prevents the ring gear 420 from rolling back about the tensioner rotation axis A. 400w The rotation of the second set of planetary gears 424a to 424d causes the second carrier 426 (including the second sun gear 426b) to rotate around the tensioning wheel rotation axis A in the tensioning direction. 400wThe second sun gear 426b drives the third set of planetary gears 432a to 432c. Since the third mount 430 cannot rotate around the tensioning wheel axis A 400w Rotation, therefore, the rotation of the third set of planetary gears 432a to 432c causes the tensioning wheel 400w to rotate in the tensioning direction around the tensioning wheel rotation axis A 400w Accordingly, the tensioning assembly gear device 400g operatively connects the motor 1100 and the transmission device 1000 to the tensioning wheel 400w so that the tensioning wheel 400w rotates around the tensioning wheel rotation axis A in the tensioning direction. 400w Rotate.

[0076] As the tensioning wheel 400w rotates in the tensioning direction, it pulls the upper portion of the strap over the lower portion of the strap, thereby tensioning the strap around the load. Throughout the tensioning cycle, the controller 1600 monitors the current drawn by the motor 1100. When the current reaches a preset value associated with the (preset) desired strap tension for the strapping cycle, the controller 1600 stops the motor 1100, thereby terminating the tensioning cycle. At this point, the strap is in the rolling direction T REV The tensioning wheel 400w is applied with torque. The tensioning wheel 400w transmits this torque to the third set of planetary gears 432a to 432c, which transmit this torque to the second sun gear 426b of the second carrier 426. The second set of planetary gears 424a to 424d transmits this torque to the first sun gear 410b of the driven shaft 410 and the rollback ring gear 420. The tensioning assembly flywheel 412 prevents the driven shaft 410 from rolling in the rollback direction T REV The second disconnect coupling assembly 700 is in its coupled configuration and prevents the rollback ring gear 420 from rotating in the rollback direction T REV Therefore, the torque applied by the belt to the tensioning wheel 400w is absorbed by the components of the tensioning assembly 400 and the second disconnection coupling assembly 700, so that the tensioning wheel 400w can maintain the tension in the belt without rotating in the rolling direction T REV Rotate upward.

[0077] After completing the tensioning cycle, the controller 1600 automatically starts the blocking cycle by controlling the motor 1100 to start rotating the output shaft in the second drive direction. This causes the transmission 1000 to drive the toothed belt 990 to start rotating the eccentric and oscillating the welding shoe 912, and pivoting the welding arm 910 to its welding position. When the welding arm 910 reaches the welding position, the welding shoe 912 forces the overlapping upper and lower layers of the strip against the welding plate 314, while the cutter 916 cuts off the upper layer of the strip from the strip supply source. The oscillating movement of the welding shoe 912 locally melts parts of the upper layer of the strip and the lower layer of the strip together. After a preset period of time, the controller 1600 controls the motor 1100 to stop rotating the output shaft, thereby completing the blocking cycle.

[0078] After the blocking cycle is complete, the operator again pulls the trigger 812 and in doing so moves the trigger body 810 from the original position to the actuated position, as shown. When this occurs, and as described above, the first disconnect assembly actuator 820 switches the first disconnect assembly 600 from the released configuration to the coupled configuration, and the second disconnect assembly actuator 830 switches the second disconnect assembly 700 from the coupled configuration to the released configuration. After the blocking cycle is complete, the strap continues to act on the tensioning wheel 400w in the rollback direction T REV Switching the second disconnection assembly 700 from the connection configuration to the release configuration enables the tensioning wheel 400w to rotate in the rolling direction T REV The torque is released in a controlled manner.

[0079] Specifically, when the strapping process is completed, the second disconnect coupling assembly 700 continues to prevent the rollback ring gear 420 of the tensioning assembly gear device 400g from rolling in the rollback direction T REV As explained above, this prevents the tensioning wheel 400w from rotating in the rolling direction T after tensioning. REV 80, and the tensioning wheel 400w can maintain tension in the strap. When the operator moves the trigger assembly body 810 to its actuated position, the second disconnect assembly actuator 830 begins to rotate the sleeve 750 of the second disconnect assembly 700 to its released position, and the inner diameter of the expandable element 740 of the second disconnect assembly 700 begins to expand. Eventually, the torque applied by the rollback ring gear 420 (via the rollback intermediate gear 422 and the gear 780 of the second disconnect assembly 700) to the disconnect assembly shaft 710 of the second disconnect assembly 700 exceeds the compressive force applied by the expandable element 740 to the first engageable element 720. When this occurs, the rollback ring gear 420 begins to rotate about the tensioning wheel axis A. 400w In the rolling direction T REV The second set of planetary gears 424a to 424d and the second carrier 426 are rotated around the tensioning wheel rotation axis A. 400w In the rolling direction T REV This causes the tensioning wheel 400w to rotate around the tensioning wheel rotation axis A 400w In the rolling direction T REV Rotate upward to release the torque applied by the tensioning strap.

[0080] Once one of the sensors 1700 detects that the trigger body 810 has reached the actuated position, the controller 1600 controls the motor 1100 to rotate the output shaft in the first drive direction to raise the tensioning assembly 400 to its strap insertion position, as explained above. The operator then removes the strapping tool 50 from the tensioning strap loop.

[0081] Although the locking assembly of the above-described example embodiments of the strapping tool is configured to form a friction welded strip joint, the locking assembly may include other locking mechanisms (such as a notched jaw assembly, a crimped jaw assembly, a seamless joint assembly, an ultrasonic welding assembly, or a hot knife assembly) configured to lock any suitable type of strip (such as a metal strip, a plastic strip, or a paper strip) in other embodiments.

[0082] The above example embodiments of the strapping tool include a single motor configured to drive both the tensioning assembly and the blocking assembly. In other embodiments, the strapping tool includes separate motors configured to drive respective tensioning assemblies and blocking assemblies, and may include separate transmissions for each motor.

[0083] Other embodiments of strapping tools may include fewer components, parts, and / or features than those included in the strapping tool 50 described above and shown in the figures. In other words, although the strapping tool 50 includes all of the components, parts, and features described above, they are independent of each other and can be independently included in other strapping tools. For example, some embodiments of the strapping tool include a first disconnect coupling assembly but not a second disconnect coupling assembly, or include a disconnect coupling assembly that is different from the second disconnect coupling assembly that includes an expandable element.

[0084] Although the strapping device described above is a handheld strapping tool, in other embodiments, the strapping device may be any other suitable strapping device, such as a stand-alone automatic or semi-automatic strapping machine.

Claims

1. A strapping device, include: Supports; a tensioning assembly including a rocker, a tensioning assembly gear arrangement supported by the rocker, and a tensioning wheel drivable by the tensioning assembly gear arrangement, wherein the tensioning assembly gear arrangement includes a driven shaft and a first gear, wherein the tensioning assembly is pivotable relative to the support between a tensioning position and a strap insertion position; a disconnect coupling assembly switchable between a coupled configuration and a released configuration; a second gear connecting the first gear to the disconnect coupling assembly, wherein the disconnect coupling assembly prevents the second gear from rotating when in the coupled configuration and enables the second gear to rotate when in the released configuration; and a motor operatively connected to the driven shaft to rotate the driven shaft, Wherein, when the disconnect coupling assembly is in the coupled configuration, rotation of the driven shaft causes the first gear to rotate and climb the second gear to pivot the tensioning assembly to the strap insertion position.

2. The strapping device according to claim 1, in, When the decoupling assembly is in the released configuration, rotation of the driven shaft rotates the first gear and drives the second gear to rotate.

3. The strapping device according to claim 1, in, The first gear includes a ring gear.

4. The strapping device according to claim 1, in, The tensioner assembly gear arrangement includes a first set of planetary gears driven by the driven shaft and drivingly engaged to the first gear such that rotation of the driven shaft causes the first set of planetary gears to rotate the first gear.

5. The strapping device according to claim 1, in, The disconnect assembly includes a disconnect assembly shaft connected to the second gear, wherein the disconnect assembly shaft is rotatable when the disconnect assembly is in the released configuration and is prevented from rotating when the disconnect assembly is in the coupled configuration.

6. The strapping device according to claim 5, in, The disconnect coupling assembly further comprises: a first engageable element connected to and rotatable with the disconnect assembly shaft; and an expandable element surrounding at least a portion of the first engageable element, wherein when the disconnect assembly is in the coupled configuration, the expandable element frictionally engages the first engageable element such that the first engageable element and the disconnect assembly shaft are prevented from rotating, Wherein, when the disconnect assembly is in the released configuration, frictional engagement between the expandable element and the first engageable element is at least partially eliminated such that the first engageable element and the disconnect assembly shaft are rotatable.

7. The strapping device according to claim 6, in, The expandable element includes a first end, a second end, and a plurality of windings between the first end and the second end, wherein rotation of the first end relative to the second end expands the diameter of one or more of the windings to at least partially eliminate frictional engagement between the expandable element and the first engageable element.

8. The strapping device of claim 7, further comprising a trigger assembly operably connected to the disconnect assembly to switch the disconnect assembly from the coupled configuration to the released configuration by rotating the first end of the expandable element relative to the second end of the expandable element.

9. The strapping device according to claim 8, in, The trigger assembly includes a disconnect assembly actuator movable to rotate the first end of the expandable element relative to the second end of the expandable element.

10. The strapping device according to claim 9, in, The disconnect coupling assembly further includes a sleeve having a body defining an opening and including external teeth, wherein the first end of the expandable element is received in the opening.

11. The strapping device according to claim 10, in, The decoupling assembly actuator includes a gear, wherein movement of the gear engages the gear with external teeth of the sleeve and drives the sleeve to rotate to rotate the first end of the expandable element relative to the second end of the expandable element.

12. The strapping device according to claim 6, in, The first engageable element is part of the disconnect coupling assembly shaft.

13. The strapping device according to claim 6, in, The second gear is mounted to the disconnect assembly shaft and is rotatable therewith.

14. The strapping device according to claim 1, in, The decoupling assembly is a first decoupling assembly, the coupling configuration is a first coupling configuration, and the release configuration is a first release configuration, wherein the tensioning assembly gear arrangement further comprises a third gear, and the strapping device further comprises: a second disconnect coupling assembly switchable between a second coupled configuration and a second released configuration; and A fourth gear connects the third gear to the second disconnect coupling assembly, wherein the second disconnect coupling assembly prevents the fourth gear from rotating when in the second coupled configuration and enables the fourth gear to rotate when in the second released configuration.

15. The strapping device according to claim 14, in, The third gear includes a ring gear.

16. The strapping device of claim 14, further comprising a trigger assembly, the trigger assembly comprising a first disconnect coupling assembly actuator and a second disconnect coupling assembly actuator, the first disconnect coupling assembly actuator being configured to switch the first disconnect coupling assembly between the first coupled configuration and the first released configuration, the second disconnect coupling assembly actuator being configured to switch the second disconnect coupling assembly between the second coupled configuration and the second released configuration.

17. The strapping device according to claim 16, in, The trigger assembly is capable of moving from an original position to an actuated position to cause the first disconnect coupling assembly actuator to switch the first disconnect coupling assembly from the first released configuration to the first coupled configuration, and to cause the second disconnect coupling assembly actuator to switch the second disconnect coupling assembly from the second coupled configuration to the second released configuration.

18. The strapping device according to claim 17, in, The trigger assembly is capable of moving from the actuated position to the original position to cause the first disconnect coupling assembly actuator to switch the first disconnect coupling assembly from the first connected configuration to the first released configuration, and to cause the second disconnect coupling assembly actuator to switch the second disconnect coupling assembly from the second released configuration to the second connected configuration.

19. The strapping device of claim 18, further comprising a controller operably connected to the motor and a first sensor configured to detect that the trigger assembly has reached the actuated position, in, The controller is configured to activate the motor to rotate the driven shaft in response to the first sensor detecting that the trigger assembly has reached the actuated position.

20. The strapping device of claim 19, further comprising a second sensor configured to detect that the tensioning assembly has reached the strap insertion position, in, The controller is further configured to deactivate the motor to stop rotating the driven shaft in response to the second sensor detecting that the tensioning assembly has reached the strap insertion position.

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