Light emitting circuit and method for hand-held tool

Abstract

The invention relates to a rotary tool having a light-emitting element and a control circuit for the light-emitting element. The light emitting element can include one or more light emitting diodes disposed at least partially within a hood of the rotary tool. The control of the lighting of the light-emitting element can be realized according to a method of operating the control circuit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a power tool and, more particularly, to a hand-held rotary tool. Background Art

[0002] Rotary tools provide an effective means for a user to perform detailed work. However, the working environment of such tools may not always be optimal for the visual conditions used to observe the work. For example, the lighting conditions may be less than ideal, or the work may need to be performed in areas where traditional and overhead lighting is difficult.

[0003] Desired is a rotary tool having work lighting mounted on an ergonomic tool to provide direct light on a workpiece under any desired conditions. Even more advantageous would be a rotary tool having a lamp with additional controllable features to provide the most desired conditions for the user of the rotary tool. Summary of the Invention

[0004] One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a lighting circuit for a hand-held tool, the circuit including at least three nodes. A first node provides a first input voltage reference. A second node provides a second input voltage reference, the second node being separated from the first node by a capacitor. A third node is separated from the first node by a diode that restricts current flow between the first node and the third node, and the third node is further separated from the second node by a capacitor in parallel with a lighting branch. The lighting branch includes a first sub-branch having a lighting element and a second sub-branch having a transistor array. The lighting element can include one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs). The transistor array can include one or more bipolar junction transistors (BJTs).

[0005] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a lighting circuit for a hand-held tool, the circuit having four nodes, namely a first input voltage reference, a second input voltage reference, a light-emitting diode (LED) array, and a transistor array. The first node is connected to the first input voltage reference. The second node is connected to the second input voltage reference and is separated from the first node by a first capacitor. The third node is separated from the first node by a zener diode that limits the current flow between the first node and the third node. The third node is further separated from the second node by a second capacitor and a lighting branch including the LED array and the transistor array. The capacitor and the lighting branch are in parallel. The fourth node is provided within the lighting branch, the fourth node is separated from the third node by the LED array and is separated from the second node by a sub-path of the transistor array. The transistor array includes a pair of bipolar junction transistors (BJTs), wherein the collector of the first BJT is connected to the fourth node, the base of the first BJT is connected to the collector of the second BJT, and the emitter of the first BJT is connected to the base of the second BJT and is separated from the second node by a resistor. The collector of the second BJT is separated from the third node by a resistor, and the emitter of the second BJT is connected to the second node.

[0006] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a rotary tool, which includes: a body, an electric motor at least partially disposed within the body, a rotary shaft coupled to the electric motor, a hood having electrical contacts and at least partially surrounding the rotary shaft during operation of the rotary tool, and a switch electrically connected to the electrical contacts of the hood. The electric motor is configured to rotationally drive the rotary shaft. The switch engages and disengages the electric motor. The hood further includes a light-emitting diode (LED) disposed thereon, the LED is lit when the electric motor is engaged, and the LED is arranged to project light toward the working end of the rotary shaft when lit.

[0007] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method for controlling a light-emitting diode (LED) disposed on a rotary tool. The method includes the steps of: applying a voltage to a control circuit in response to the engagement of the electric motor of the rotary tool; using the voltage to light the LED; and lighting the LED until a stop condition is detected by the control circuit after a start condition is detected by the control circuit. The engagement of the electric motor is controlled by the switch. The control circuit includes a transistor array. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] The above and other aspects of the present disclosure will be explained in more detail below with reference to the drawings.

[0009] Figure 1 is an illustration of a rotary tool.

[0010] Figure 2 is Figure 1 a close-up illustration of a specific element of the rotary tool.

[0011] Figure 3 It is a circuit diagram of an illumination control circuit for a rotary tool.

[0012] Figure 4 It is a circuit diagram of an illumination control circuit for a rotary tool, showing its specific features.

[0013] Figure 5 is Figure 4 a diagram of the physical layout of the circuit board on the circuit board for placement inside the hood of the rotary tool.

[0014] Figure 6 It is a flowchart illustrating a practical method for controlling the on-tool illumination features of a rotary tool.

[0015] Figure 7 It is a flowchart illustrating a practical method for controlling the on-tool illumination features of a rotary tool.

[0016] Figure 8 It is a first timing diagram illustrating the operating method of the on-tool illumination features for a rotary tool.

[0017] Figure 9 It is a second timing diagram illustrating the operating method of the on-tool illumination features for a rotary tool. Detailed Description

[0018] The illustrated embodiments are disclosed with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, it should be understood that the disclosed embodiments are only intended as examples that can be implemented in various and alternative forms. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, and some features may be enlarged or minimized to show details of specific components. The specific structural and functional details disclosed should not be construed as limiting, but rather as a representative basis for teaching those skilled in the art how to practice the disclosed concepts.

[0019] Figure 1 It is a diagram of a rotary tool 100 according to an embodiment of the teachings disclosed herein. The rotary tool 100 includes a body 101 that houses an electric motor 103. The electric motor 103 facilitates the primary operation of the rotary tool 100 by utilizing power from a power source 105. In the depicted embodiment, the power source 105 includes a cable connected to an external power source, such as a power outlet or a power transformer, but other embodiments can include other configurations without departing from the teachings disclosed herein. Without departing from the teachings disclosed herein, other embodiments can include a wireless configuration with a battery. In the depicted embodiment, the user can grasp the rotary tool 100 along the body 101 or can grasp it along the neck 111 (using the so-called "pencil grip") for more precise motor control during operation.

[0020] Figure 2 A close-up illustration of additional features of the operating element of the rotary tool 100 is provided. In this depiction, the tool attachment 201 is rotated by a rotary shaft 203 that is rotationally driven by an electric motor 103 (not shown; see Figure 1 ). In the depicted embodiment, the tool attachment 201 includes a cutting disc, but other embodiments can include any other rotary tool attachment known to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the teachings disclosed herein. The tool attachment 201 is held in position relative to the rotary shaft 203 by a retainer 211. The rotary shaft 203 and the retainer 211 project from the body 100 through a cowl 213 that defines the end of the body 101 closest to the tool attachment 201 during operation of the rotary tool 100.

[0021] In the depicted embodiment, the power of the electric motor 103 is controlled using a switch 215. Without departing from the teachings disclosed herein, other functions can be controlled by utilizing the switch 215 of the rotary tool 100 or other switches or control devices (not shown).

[0022] In the depicted embodiment, the cowl 213 further includes a plurality of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) 223 disposed at least partially thereon. The LEDs 223 are configured to be illuminated using power provided by a power source 105 (see Figure 1 ). The illumination of the LEDs 223 is directed towards the tool attachment 201 to provide light to the user when operating the rotary tool 100. In the depicted embodiment, the LEDs 223 are spaced apart on the cowl 213 at regular angular intervals relative to the rotary shaft 203, but other embodiments can include different arrangements without departing from the teachings disclosed herein. In the depicted embodiment, the rotary tool 100 includes a plurality of 4 LEDs 223, but other embodiments can include a different number of LEDs 223 without departing from the teachings disclosed herein.

[0023] Although the depicted embodiment includes a plurality of light-emitting diodes, other embodiments can include other light-emitting elements without departing from the teachings disclosed herein. In such embodiments, the rotary tool 100 can include an incandescent lamp, a point laser, a scanning laser, a compact fluorescent lamp, a compact neon lamp, or any other light-emitting element known to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the teachings disclosed herein.

[0024] In the depicted embodiment, each of the LEDs 223 is controlled by a control circuit (not shown; see Figures 3 - 5) controlled and capable of lighting up in response to detecting a start condition until a stop condition is detected. By way of example and not limitation, the start condition can include the engagement of the electric motor 103, and the stop condition can include the disengagement of the electric motor 103. In such embodiments, one or more of the LEDs 223 can go out (i.e., interrupt light emission) in response to the disengagement of the electric motor 103.

[0025] Some users may prefer discrete control over the operation of the rotary tool 100 and also over the lighting state of one or more of the LEDs 223. In the depicted embodiment, the lighting state of the LEDs 223 can be controlled based on the behavior of the user toggle switch 215. By way of example and not limitation, the switch 215 can include a pressure switch, and the LEDs 223 can light up only if the electric motor 103 is engaged by a "long press" of the switch 215, such as when the user presses the switch 215 for a minimum time threshold. In such embodiments, a "short press" activation of the electric motor 103 will include engagement of the switch 215 for less than a predetermined time period. In response to a short press, the electric motor 103 can engage, but the LEDs 223 will not light up. In such embodiments, a "long press" activation of the electric motor 103 will cause activation of one or more of the electric motor 103 and the LEDs 223.

[0026] Without departing from the teachings disclosed herein, other embodiments can exhibit opposite characteristics. In such embodiments, a user "short press" can light up one or more of the LEDs 223, while a "long press" can activate the electric motor 103 without lighting up any of the LEDs 223. In some such embodiments, one or more of the LEDs 223 can light up in response to the initial engagement of a "long press" and then go out when the long press is completed (i.e., when the time threshold for continuous engagement of the switch 215 is reached).

[0027] The time threshold defined between a "short press" and a "long press" can be predetermined by design. In the depicted embodiment, a threshold of 3 seconds is used, but without departing from the teachings disclosed herein, other embodiments can include other thresholds. By way of example and not limitation, without departing from the teachings disclosed herein, the time threshold can be preselected to be any value between 1 - 5 seconds.

[0028] Without departing from the teachings disclosed herein, other embodiments can include other configurations of the LED 223. By way of example and not limitation, without departing from the teachings disclosed herein, additional behaviors of the LED 223 can be implemented, such as changing the brightness level, activating only a portion of the plurality of LEDs, a blink or flash mode, or other known lighting behaviors. In some embodiments, different behaviors can be implemented in response to a predetermined number of presses of the switch 215 according to a pre-programmed sequence. In such embodiments, the behavior of each LED can be determined based on how many times the user toggles the switch 215, and the behaviors can rotate according to a pre-programmed sequence. In such embodiments, all of the LEDs 223 can behave independently in response to the same number of toggles of the switch 215, or, without departing from the teachings disclosed herein, two or more of the LEDs 223 can behave similarly.

[0029] Without departing from the teachings disclosed herein, the switch 215 can include a toggle switch, potentiometer, stepper potentiometer, or encoder for a microcontroller. Importantly, although the switch 215 selectively controls the behavior of the LED 223, the electric motor 103 of the rotary tool 100 should operate independently of the state of the LED 223. In some embodiments, such as those utilizing a passive toggle switch configuration of the switch 215, without departing from the teachings disclosed herein, the illumination of one or more of the LEDs 223 can depend on the engagement state of the electric motor 103. In some embodiments, without departing from the teachings disclosed herein, a control mechanism other than the switch 215, such as a second switch, button, body heat-activated thermostatic switch, or any other known mechanism, can be used to control the LED 223. In some embodiments having a second control mechanism for the LEDs, without departing from the teachings disclosed herein, the second control mechanism can be disposed at least partially within the hood 213.

[0030] Control of the behavior of the LED 223 depends on a control circuit (not shown). Figure 3 There is provided for a hand-held tool, such as the rotary tool 100; see Figure 1 , Figure 2Illustration of a specific embodiment of the control circuit for the LED in (). The control circuit includes a first input voltage reference 301 and a second input voltage reference 303. The first input voltage reference 301 can also be referred to as the "high input voltage reference" or simply the "high input voltage" for short. The second input voltage reference 303 can also be referred to as the "low input voltage reference" or simply the "low input voltage" for short. In the depicted embodiment, the circuit includes a first node 305, a second node 307, a third node 309, and a fourth node 311. Each of the nodes provides a reference point for a specific voltage value for the electrical connection points connected to the node, and these nodes are introduced herein for the purpose of facilitating the discussion of the circuit.

[0031] Functionally, the light-emitting function of the circuit is achieved by the components of the light-emitting branch 321, which includes a first sub-branch 323 composed of light-emitting elements (hereinafter referred to as the "light-emitting" (LE) array 323) and a second sub-branch 325 composed of a transistor array (hereinafter referred to as the "transistor array 325") suitable for controlling the light-emitting behavior of the LE array 323. The LE array 323 includes a first high pin 333 (hereinafter referred to as the "LE high pin" 333) connected to the third node 309 and a first low pin 335 (hereinafter referred to as the "LE low pin 335") connected to the fourth node 311. The transistor array 325 includes a second low pin 337 (hereinafter referred to as the "TA low pin" 341) connected to the second node 307. The transistor array 325 further includes a plurality of second high pins (hereinafter referred to as "TA high pins"). In the depicted embodiment, these include the TA high pin 339 and the TA high pin 341. The TA high pin 339 is connected to the third node 309 and the TA high pin 341 is connected to the fourth node 311.

[0032] The control circuit is characterized by additional components for controlling unwanted characteristics of the voltage and current within the circuit. The second node 307 is separated from the first node 305 and the third node 309 by a capacitor 351. The capacitor 351 helps to divert high-frequency current away from the light-emitting branch 321, which can reduce unwanted flicker or flashing of the LE array 323. Without departing from the teachings disclosed herein, the capacitor 351 can include different capacitance values or the same value.

[0033] In addition, the first node 305 is separated from the third node 309 by a diode 353 to protect the light-emitting branch 321 from undesired current flow. In the depicted embodiment, the diode 353 includes a zener diode that allows current to flow only from the first node 305 to the third node 309, which in turn protects the components of the LE array 323 and the transistor array 325 and prevents undesired characteristics in the sub-branches of the light-emitting branch 321 that may be caused by current flowing in an undesired direction. In the depicted embodiment, the diode 353 can include a zener diode, but in other embodiments that do not depart from the teachings disclosed herein, other configurations can be included.

[0034] Figure 3 The circuit provides a general layout for the light control function. Figure 4 is a circuit diagram of a similar control circuit that has a specific arrangement for the LE array 323 and the transistor array 325.

[0035] In the depicted embodiment, the LE array 323 includes a plurality of LEDs 223 (see also Figure 2 ). In this embodiment, the LE array 323 includes four LEDs 223 that are arranged such that a pair of LEDs 223 in series wiring includes an array sub-path that is parallel to another identical sub-path. In other embodiments that do not depart from the teachings disclosed herein, other arrangements can be included, including arrangements characterized by a different number of LEDs 223. In other embodiments that do not depart from the teachings disclosed herein, other embodiments can include additional or different light-emitting elements relative to the LEDs 223. In such embodiments that do not depart from the teachings disclosed herein, such embodiments can include incandescent lamps, dot lasers, scanning lasers, compact fluorescent lamps, compact neon lamps, or any other light-emitting element known to those of ordinary skill in the art instead of or in addition to light-emitting diodes.

[0036] In Figure 4 the depicted embodiment, the transistor array 325 includes a plurality of transistors 425. In the depicted embodiment, each of the transistors 425 includes a bipolar junction transistor (BJT), but in other embodiments that do not depart from the teachings disclosed herein, other configurations can be included. The transistor array 325 further includes a plurality of impedance loads 427 to provide control over the voltage drops across the respective elements of the transistors 425. In the depicted embodiment, the impedance loads 427 include resistors, but in other embodiments that do not depart from the teachings disclosed herein, other impedance loads that exhibit reactance can be utilized.

[0037] In the depicted embodiment, the first BJT 425a is connected to the fourth node 311 via the TA high pin 341 at the collector terminal. The base terminal of the first BJT 425a is connected to the collector terminal of the second BJT 425b and is separated from the third node 309 via the resistor 427a. The emitter terminal of the first BJT 425a is connected to the base terminal of the second BJT 425b and is separated from the second node 307 by the resistor 427b. The emitter terminal of the BJT 425b is connected to the second node 307 via the TA low pin 337. This configuration of the transistor array 325 causes a controlled and continuous current consumption through the transistor array 325. Due to this continuous current consumption, a consistent voltage is applied across the LED array 323, and a continuous current consumption is generated across the entire light-emitting branch 321. This continuous current consumption advantageously causes a stable illumination of the LED 223, providing an ergonomic and reliable light emission.

[0038] Figure 3 and Figure 4 The circuit diagrams are illustrated for a clear understanding of the electrical connections, node voltage analysis, and current flow analysis, but do not limit the circuit arrangement or topology. Figure 5 A diagram of a circuit board 501 is presented that is adapted to be implemented in a rotary tool such as rotary tool 100; see Figure 1 ). The circuit board 501 includes the same electrical connection topology as illustrated in the diagram of Figure 4 but is laid out in a manner suitable for use within an associated rotary tool. Figure 5 The view of Figure 2 includes a top view of the layout of the circuit board 501 on which components are mounted. In the depicted embodiment, the circuit board 501 includes a printed circuit board (PCB) where the electrical connections are routed on either side of the circuit board (not shown), but other embodiments can include other configurations without departing from the teachings disclosed herein. In the depicted embodiment, the circuit board 501 is configured to be disposed within the housing of a rotary tool such as housing 213; see Figure 2 ). In such embodiments, the associated housing can include retaining elements (not shown) to hold the placement of the circuit board 501 in a secure position within the housing. This retention advantageously protects the internal components of the rotary tool 501, including the circuit elements of the circuit board 501. The circuit board 501 is further designed with a clearance 503 configured to accommodate the rotary shaft of the rotary tool such as rotary shaft 203; see Figure 1 ). The clearance 503 accommodates the mechanical connection between the rotary shaft of the rotary tool and a drive element such as electric motor 103; see

[0039] Figure 6 is a flowchart illustrating a method of utilizing the lighting function of a rotary tool (such as rotary tool 100; see Figure 3 ) having a control circuit (such as the circuit of Figure 1 ). The method begins at step 600 where a start condition is detected. In the depicted embodiment, the start condition can include activation of the motor of the rotary tool, engagement of a switch, or a combination of both. In the depicted embodiment, the motor of the associated rotary tool can be an electric motor powered by a power source, and the power source can additionally provide the necessary electrical signals to the control circuit of the rotary tool. Once the start condition is detected, the lighting branch of the control circuit is activated and the associated lighting element is illuminated. In this embodiment, the lighting element includes a light emitting diode (LED), but other embodiments can include other configurations without departing from the teachings disclosed herein.

[0040] After illumination, the method proceeds to step 604 where the circuit monitors for a stop condition. In the depicted embodiment, the stop condition can include de - engagement of the electric motor or the switch. The stop condition can additionally include a "long press" of the switch, which will be interpreted as extinguishing the LED without de - engaging the electric motor of the rotary tool. The "long press" is achieved by continuously engaging the associated switch for more than a predetermined time threshold. In the depicted embodiment, the predetermined time threshold can be 3 seconds, but other embodiments can include other configurations without departing from the teachings disclosed herein. This characteristic of the control circuit can be implemented by a transistor array, such as transistor array 325 (see Figure 3 ; Figure 4 ), but other embodiments can include other configurations without departing from the teachings disclosed herein.

[0041] Once the stop condition is detected, the method proceeds to step 606 where the LED is extinguished and the method ends. In some embodiments, the method can loop back to step 600 to detect the start condition again after ending, such as when the user continues to actively use the rotary tool without illumination.

[0042] Figure 6 Illustrates a first embodiment of the lighting behavior, but more complex functions can be desired. Figure 7 Provides an illustration of a lighting method with additional features.

[0043] The method begins at step 700 where a start condition is detected. In the depicted embodiment, the start condition includes a voltage applied to the circuit in sub-step 700a and a switch that is engaged in sub-step 700b. Other embodiments can include a different set of start conditions or an alternative configuration of start conditions. By way of example and not limitation, alternative embodiments can initiate the method in response to only one of sub-step 700a or sub-step 700b without departing from the teachings disclosed herein.

[0044] After the start condition is detected, a timer is started at step 702 and the method waits at step 704 for a first time threshold to be reached. If the threshold has not been reached, then the method proceeds to step 706 to determine whether the switch is still engaged. If the switch is not engaged, then the method ends, but if the switch remains engaged, then the method returns to step 704 to measure the timer again. Once the first threshold is reached, the method proceeds to step 708 to illuminate a light-emitting element of a rotary tool, a light-emitting diode (LED) in this embodiment. Other embodiments can include other light-emitting elements without departing from the teachings disclosed herein. In the depicted embodiment, the first threshold can include a time window of 1 - 5 seconds, such as 3 seconds, but other embodiments can include other values for the first threshold without departing from the teachings disclosed herein.

[0045] After the LED is illuminated, an "intensity cycle" sub-process 710 is initiated to adjust the intensity or visual brightness of the illumination. The sub-process first checks in sub-step 711 whether the switch is still engaged, and if not, then sub-process 710 ends and proceeds to the next step of the method. However, as long as the switch remains engaged, the sub-process continues to sub-step 713 to check whether the timer has exceeded the next threshold. In the depicted embodiment, the threshold can be passed at regular time intervals, such as every 1 - 5 seconds. By way of example and not limitation, each next threshold beyond the first threshold (of step 704) can include a time window of 1 second, but other embodiments can include other configurations without departing from the teachings disclosed herein. If the switch remains engaged beyond the next threshold, then the sub-process continues to sub-step 715 where it is determined whether the LED has been illuminated at maximum intensity. If not, then the illumination intensity is increased in sub-step 717. If maximum intensity has been reached, then the sub-process instead turns off the LED in sub-step 719.

[0046] After the intensity change in sub-step 717 or 719, the sub-process returns to sub-step 711. As long as the user engages the switch, this sub-process 710 advantageously iteratively cycles through these steps, thereby producing a continuous sequence of intensity changes, including minimum intensity, maximum intensity, and "off". As long as the switch is engaged, the intensity changes are advantageously made at regular intervals.

[0047] In the depicted embodiment, each increase in intensity can correspond to a percentage increase in the light energy output. By way of example and not limitation, in a rotary tool that includes 4 different LEDs, there can be 4 intensity intervals, where each intensity interval corresponds to an additional one of the 4 LEDs being lit. In another embodiment, without departing from the teachings disclosed herein, each intensity interval can correspond to a 10% increase in the light energy output. In such embodiments, there can be 10 intensity levels in sequence. In some embodiments, each intensity interval can correspond to a different output pattern among a plurality of LEDs. By way of example and not limitation, some such embodiments can rotate the illumination of a single LED in an array of 4 LEDs before illuminating different pairs of the 4 LEDs and before finally illuminating all 4 LEDs simultaneously. This configuration can advantageously provide different desired light distributions that better illuminate the workpiece during the operation of the rotary tool. Without departing from the teachings disclosed herein, some embodiments can include programmable intensity settings. In such embodiments, without departing from the teachings disclosed herein, the number of intensity levels, the order of the intensity levels, or the threshold times for selecting the corresponding intensity levels can be virtually arbitrary and selected by the user or the manufacturer.

[0048] Once it is detected in sub-step 711 that the switch is no longer engaged, the method exits the intensity loop sub-process 710 and proceeds to step 720 where the tool waits to detect a stop condition. In the depicted embodiment, the stop condition includes an interruption of the voltage applied to the circuit (such as deactivation of the power source of the rotary tool) or re-engagement of the switch. In some alternative embodiments, without departing from the teachings disclosed herein, re-engagement of the switch can return to one of the sub-steps of the intensity loop 710. Once the stop condition is detected, the method extinguishes the LED in step 722. If the LED has already been extinguished (such as during sub-step 719), then this step acts as a placeholder step to ensure that the LED is extinguished under other conditions. After step 722, the method ends in step 724. However, in the depicted embodiment, after the method ends, it can return to step 700 to detect the start condition again, such as continuing to use the motor of the rotary tool in the extinguished state. Without departing from the teachings disclosed herein, other embodiments can not return to the initialization step 700.

[0049] Figure 8 A timing diagram is shown that illustrates the behavior of a rotary tool (such as rotary tool 100; see Figure 1 ) according to one embodiment of the invention disclosed herein. The timing diagram includes a first graph 801 that illustrates the condition of a switch (such as switch 215, see Figure 2 ). The timing diagram further includes a second graph 803 that illustrates the condition of a motor (such as electric motor 103; seeFigure 1 ) operating conditions. The timing diagram persistently includes a third graph 805 that illustrates the luminosity of an associated LED of the rotary tool (such as LED 223; see Figure 2 ). In the depicted embodiment, the motor of the rotary tool engages immediately in response to activation of the switch being pressed. If the switch remains pressed during a first time window 809, the LED remains in an "off state" 813 until the first time window 809 expires. In the depicted embodiment, the first time window 809 can include a predetermined threshold of 1-5 seconds, but other embodiments can include other configurations without departing from the teachings disclosed herein. In the depicted embodiment, the first time window 809 can include 3 seconds, but other embodiments can include other configurations without departing from the teachings disclosed herein. After reaching the first time window 809, the timer is then monitored for additional time within a span corresponding to a second time window 811. Once the first time window 809 is reached while the switch is still pressed, the state of the LED moves from the off condition 813 to maximum luminosity 815. It is noted that with respect to the continued pressing of the switch, the state of the motor does not change any further because a different input is required to disengage the motor of the rotary tool.

[0050] While the switch remains pressed, the lit state of the LED changes after each duration corresponding to the second time window 811. The change in lighting occurs according to a cycle that is offset at regular intervals of the second time window 811. In the depicted embodiment, the LED cycles through 5 lit states starting from maximum luminosity 815. The additional states correspond to an illumination offset of 20% luminosity after each successive second time window 811 has passed: a second luminosity 817 corresponding to 80% of the maximum brightness, a third luminosity 819 corresponding to 60% of the maximum brightness, a fourth luminosity 821 corresponding to 40% of the maximum brightness, and a fifth luminosity 823 corresponding to 20% of the maximum brightness.

[0051] Without departing from the teachings disclosed herein, other embodiments can exhibit different luminosity cycles, such as 10% increments, 5% increments, or even non-uniform incremental changes (such as maximum, 80%, 50%, and 10%). In the depicted embodiment, the second time window 811 is shorter than the first time window 809, but other embodiments can include other configurations with different or equivalent time windows. In the depicted embodiment, the second time window 811 can include a 1-second threshold, but other embodiments can include other values. Without departing from the teachings disclosed herein, some embodiments can include a second time window 811 in the range of 0.25 - 5 seconds.

[0052] Without departing from the teachings disclosed herein, some embodiments can include cycles having irregular time windows between luminosity levels. By way of example and not limitation, without departing from the teachings disclosed herein, the time window associated with 80% luminosity can be shorter than the time window associated with 20% luminosity.

[0053] In the depicted embodiment, if the switch remains pressed after cycling through all available luminosity values 815 - 823, the next iteration of the cycle returns to the maximum luminosity 815, but without departing from the teachings disclosed herein, other embodiments can include returning to the off condition 813 or other values. In the depicted embodiment, after 5 iterations of the second time window 811, the switch is released and the luminosity setting of the LED remains at the maximum luminosity 815 until another input is received at the switch. It is noted that the motor continues to operate regardless of the behavior of the LED.

[0054] Figure 9 A timing diagram is shown illustrating the behavior of a rotary tool (such as rotary tool 100; see Figure 1 ). The timing diagram includes a first graph 901 that illustrates the condition of a switch (such as switch 215, see Figure 2 ). The timing diagram additionally includes a second graph 903 that illustrates the operating condition of a motor (such as electric motor 103; see Figure 1 ). The timing diagram persistently includes a third graph 905 that illustrates the luminosity of an associated LED of the rotary tool (such as LED 223; see Figure 2 ). In this embodiment, similar to the embodiment of Figure 8 , the first time window 809 and the second time window 811 are used as time thresholds, but contrastingly illustrate different functions of the LED.

[0055] In the depicted embodiment, the motor of the rotary tool engages immediately in response to activation of the switch being pressed. If the switch remains pressed during a first time window 809, the LED remains in an "off state" 813 until the first time window 809 expires. In the depicted embodiment, the first time window 809 can include a predetermined threshold of 1 - 5 seconds, but other embodiments can include other configurations without departing from the teachings disclosed herein. In the depicted embodiment, the first time window 809 can include 3 seconds, but other embodiments can include other configurations without departing from the teachings disclosed herein. After the first time window 809 has elapsed, a timer is then monitored for additional time over a span corresponding to a second time window 811. When the switch remains pressed, once the first time window 809 has been reached, the state of the LED moves from the off condition 813 to a first luminance 915, which corresponds to a brightness of 20% of the maximum luminance. It is noted that with respect to the switch remaining pressed, the state of the motor does not change any further, as a different input is required to disengage the motor of the rotary tool.

[0056] When the switch remains pressed, the illuminated state of the LED changes after each duration corresponding to the second time window 811. The change in illumination occurs according to a cycle that is offset at regular intervals of the second time window 811. In the depicted embodiment, the LED cycles through 5 illuminated states starting from 20% luminance 915. The additional states correspond to an illumination offset of 20% luminance after each successive second time window 811 has passed: a second luminance 917 corresponding to 40% of the maximum brightness, a third luminance 919 corresponding to 60% of the maximum brightness, a fourth luminance 921 corresponding to 80% of the maximum brightness, and a fifth luminance 923 corresponding to the maximum brightness.

[0057] Without departing from the teachings disclosed herein, other embodiments can exhibit different luminance cycles, such as 10% increments, 5% increments, or even non-uniform incremental changes (such as maximum, 80%, 50%, and 10%). In the depicted embodiment, the second time window 811 is shorter than the first time window 809, but other embodiments can include other configurations with different or equivalent time windows. In the depicted embodiment, the second time window 811 can include a 1 - second threshold, but other embodiments can include other values. Without departing from the teachings disclosed herein, some embodiments can include a second time window 811 in the range of 0.25 - 5 seconds.

[0058] Without departing from the teachings disclosed herein, some embodiments can include cycles having irregular time windows between luminosity levels. By way of example and not limitation, without departing from the teachings disclosed herein, the time window associated with 80% luminosity can be shorter than the time window associated with 20% luminosity.

[0059] In the depicted embodiment, if the switch remains pressed after cycling through all available luminosity values 915 - 923, the next iteration of the cycle returns to the off condition 813 as the next interval. When the switch remains pressed for another duration of the second time window 811, the cycle will iterate again, returning to the first luminosity 915 and continuing through the established cycle as before. Without departing from the teachings disclosed herein, other embodiments can include other values. In the depicted embodiment, after 5 iterations of the second time window 811, the switch is released and the luminosity setting of the LED remains in the off condition 813 until another input is received at the switch. It is noted that the motor continues to operate regardless of the behavior of the LED.

[0060] While exemplary embodiments have been described above, these embodiments are not intended to describe all possible forms of the disclosed apparatus and methods. Rather, the words used in the specification are words of description rather than limitation, and it is understood that various changes can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the claimed disclosure. Features of various implementing embodiments can be combined to form additional embodiments of the disclosed inventive concept.

Claims

1. A rotary tool comprising: main body; an electric motor disposed at least partially within the body; a rotating shaft coupled to the electric motor; a head cover having electrical contacts and at least partially surrounding the rotating shaft during operation of the rotating tool; as well as a switch in electrical communication with the electrical contact of the hood, in, The electric motor is configured to rotationally drive the rotating shaft, the switch engages and disengages the electric motor, The hood further includes a light emitting diode (LED) disposed thereon, the LED illuminating when the electric motor is engaged, the LED being arranged to project light toward the working end of the rotating shaft when illuminated.

2. The rotary tool according to claim 1, wherein: The hood further comprises a plurality of LEDs, each of the plurality of LEDs being disposed on the hood and arranged to project light towards the working end of the rotating shaft when illuminated.

3. The rotary tool according to claim 2, wherein: The plurality of LEDs are arranged at regular intervals along an angular measurement relative to the rotation axis.

4. The rotary tool according to claim 2, wherein: The plurality of LEDs includes 4 LEDs.

5. The rotary tool according to claim 1, wherein: The switch is configured to extinguish the LED without disengaging the electric motor.

6. The rotary tool according to claim 1, wherein: The hood further includes a control circuit in electrical communication with the LED, the control circuit governing the behavior of the LED.

7. The rotary tool according to claim 6, wherein: The control circuit manages the speed at which the LEDs are turned on and off.

8. The rotary tool according to claim 7, wherein: The control circuit selectively illuminates one or more of the plurality of LEDs in response to the toggle of the switch.

9. A method for controlling a light emitting diode (LED) disposed on a rotating tool, the method comprising: applying voltage to a control circuit in response to engagement of an electric motor of the rotary tool; Utilizing the voltage to illuminate the LED; as well as lighting the LED after a start condition is detected by the control circuit until a stop condition is detected by the control circuit, in, The engagement of the electric motor is controlled by a switch, and The control circuit includes a transistor array.

10. The method according to claim 9, wherein: The stop condition includes disengagement of the electric motor.

11. The method according to claim 10, wherein: The starting condition includes engagement of the electric motor.

12. The method according to claim 9, wherein: The rotary tool further comprises a switch, and wherein the start condition comprises engaging the switch for less than a time threshold.

13. The method according to claim 12, wherein: The stop condition includes engaging the switch for at least the time threshold.

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein: The time threshold is 3 seconds.

15. A method for controlling a light emitting diode (LED) disposed on a rotating tool, the method comprising: applying a first voltage to a control circuit in response to engagement of an electric motor of the rotary tool; applying a second voltage to the LED in response to engagement of the switch; as well as regulating the second voltage in response to continued engagement of the switch, in, adjusting the second voltage applied to the LED according to a predetermined set of voltage values, and The adjustment of the second voltage is based on a timer to cycle through the predetermined set of voltage values ​​at regular intervals.

16. The method according to claim 15, wherein: One of the predetermined voltage value groups includes a value corresponding to a maximum illumination level of the LED.

17. The method according to claim 15, wherein: The predetermined voltage value set includes values ​​corresponding to a luminance increase of 20% compared to a maximum illumination.

18. The method according to claim 15, wherein: The predetermined voltage group includes voltage groups corresponding to maximum luminance, 80% luminance, 60% luminance, 40% luminance, and 20% luminance.

19. The method according to claim 18, wherein: The predetermined voltage set includes an additional voltage corresponding to a turn-off condition of the LED.

20. The method according to claim 15, wherein: The regular interval is a specified time in the range of 1-5 seconds.

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