Compressed air storage device and storage system

Abstract

The invention relates to a compressed air storage device and a storage system. The power tool compressor is connected to the compressed air storage device. The compressed air storage device includes a flexible tubular air storage element and a container element (80) configured to receive and store a ring of the air storage element. The air storage element and the container element are both lightweight compared to some conventional compressed air storage tanks, whereby the compressed air storage device facilitates easy use, storage and transportation of the air storage element, resulting in a compact and lightweight compressed air storage solution.

Description

BACKGROUND

[0001] Air compressors are commonly used to power a variety of pneumatic or air-powered tools. Some power tools that can be operated using an air compressor include nail guns, impact wrenches, air ratchet wrenches, air hammers, drills, sanders and grinders, spray guns, staple guns, and the like. These are just a few examples of power tools that can be operated using an air compressor. Pneumatic tools are advantageous in that they generally provide high power and durability while being relatively lightweight and easy to maneuver. However, air compressors can include a tank to pressurize air and for storing the pressurized (e.g., compressed) air. Such compressors typically use large, bulky metal storage tanks. This makes them difficult to move and store. SUMMARY

[0002] In some aspects, a compressed air storage device includes an air storage element and a container element. The air storage element has a flexible, elongated tubular configuration, with a tube configured to store compressed air. The air storage element can be tightly coiled and / or stowed in the container element, which is a lightweight housing that is shaped and sized to receive the air storage element. The container element facilitates easy use, storage, and transport of the air storage element, resulting in a compact and lightweight compressed air storage solution.

[0003] The compressed air storage device replaces a conventional rigid compressed air storage tank in an air compressor system that also includes an air compressor. The flexible, tubular air storage element has an interior space that extends between opposite ends of the element and is in communication with couplers disposed at the opposite ends of the device. The interior space of the air storage element has a volume required to store compressed air for driving a power tool. To achieve the necessary volume, the air storage element includes a long length of flexible, relatively small diameter tubing to store the compressed air. Additionally, the air storage element can be tightly coiled and stowed in a lightweight container element for easy use, storage, and transport.

[0004] Flexible compressed air storage devices can be compared to some conventional compressed air storage tanks 601, 602 having simple curved three-dimensional shapes. Some exemplary conventional shapes are illustrated in FIGS. 8A-C and 9A-C, along with a diagram illustrating the force exerted on these tanks by the compressed air stored therein. FIGS. 8A-C illustrate a compressed air storage tank 601 having a shape sometimes referred to as a "hot dog," e.g., an elongated large diameter cylinder having rounded ends. FIGS. 9A-C illustrate a compressed air storage tank 602 having a shape sometimes referred to as a "puck," e.g., a flattened sphere. Such conventional storage tanks are relatively large in size, as hand-held pneumatic power tools can require eight liters or more of compressed air to operate. The force on the interior surface of these tanks is equal to the pressure of the compressed air multiplied by the area of the interior surface. Typical storage tank pressures for air compressors range from 80 to 120 pounds per square inch (psi), while some industrial applications can require higher pressures, up to 200 psi or more. As the tanks are large to accommodate the required storage volume, the internal forces are also large. For this reason, some conventional compressed air storage tanks are formed of metal and include welded joints. Unfortunately, such tanks are rigid and heavy, ranging from 20 pounds (9 kilograms) to over 100 pounds (45 kilograms), and due to their size and weight, can be difficult to move from one place to another.

[0005] In contrast, the tubular compressed air storage element has a relatively small diameter, e.g., ranging from 0.25 inches to 1.0 inch in the mid-region, and ranging from 1.0 inch to 10 inches in the large diameter region, whereby the internal pressure of the air storage element is relatively small compared to some conventional storage tanks. In the air storage element, the required volume is achieved by increasing the length of the element. As the internal forces are relatively low (due to the smaller area), the air storage element can be made of a flexible and relatively lighter weight material compared to those used to make conventional rigid metal storage tanks. The container element can also be made of a flexible, lightweight material, as the stored compressed air is retained within the air storage element.

[0006] In some aspects, a compressed air storage device is configured to connect to an air output of an air compressor. The compressed air storage device includes an air storage element and a container element. The air storage element includes a tubular body having a first end and a second end opposite the first end of the tube. The tubular body has a diameter and a length, wherein the length is equal to a distance between the first end and the second end of the tube when the tubular body is disposed parallel to a straight line. The length is at least twenty times the diameter, fifty times the diameter, or 100 times the diameter. The tubular body includes a reinforced tube wall. The container element includes a container housing shaped and sized to receive the air storage element therein.

[0007] In some embodiments, the container element includes a side wall surrounding the air storage element and a closed end at one end of the side wall. At least one of the side wall and the closed end includes perforations.

[0008] In some embodiments, at least one of the side wall and the closed end is formed of a woven material.

[0009] In some embodiments, the container element includes a side wall surrounding the air storage element and a closed end at one end of the side wall. At least one of the side wall and the closed end is formed of plastic.

[0010] In some embodiments, the container element includes a side wall surrounding the air storage element and a closed end at one end of the side wall, and at least one of the side wall and the closed end is formed of a pliable material.

[0011] In some embodiments, the container element includes a structural support frame and a woven fabric covering that encloses the support frame.

[0012] In some embodiments, the container housing is configured to be selectively opened and closed to allow access to the interior space of the container element.

[0013] In some embodiments, the container housing includes a lid configured to allow access to the interior space of the container element.

[0014] In some aspects, an air compressor system includes an air compressor having an air output, and a compressed air storage device. The compressed air storage device includes an air storage element and a container element. The air storage element includes a tubular body having a tube first end operably connected to the air output and configured to store compressed air, and a tube second end opposite the tube first end. The tubular body has a diameter and a length, wherein the length is equal to a distance between the tube first end and the tube second end when the tubular body is arranged parallel to a straight line, the length being at least fifty times the diameter. The tubular body includes a reinforced tube wall. The container element includes a container housing shaped and dimensioned to receive the air storage element therein.

[0015] In some embodiments, the air compressor system includes an air driven power tool, the power tool including a tool coupler, wherein the tube second end is operably connected to the tool coupler.

[0016] In some embodiments, the container element includes a side wall surrounding the air storage element and a closed end at one end of the side wall, and at least one of the side wall and the closed end includes perforations.

[0017] In some embodiments, at least one of the side wall and the closed end is formed of a woven material.

[0018] In some embodiments, the container element includes a side wall surrounding the air storage element and a closed end at one end of the side wall, and at least one of the side wall and the closed end is formed of a plastic.

[0019] In some embodiments, the container element includes a side wall surrounding the air storage element and a closed end at one end of the side wall, and at least one of the side wall and the closed end is formed of a flexible material.

[0020] In some embodiments, the container element includes a structural support frame and a woven fabric covering surrounding the support frame. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0021] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a system for supplying compressed air to a hand-held power tool, where single lines represent electrical connections and double lines represent fluid connections.

[0022] Figure 2 is a schematic perspective view of a compressed air storage device illustrating an air storage element disposed within a container element.

[0023] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of a tube of the air storage element taken along line 3-3 of Figure 1

[0024] Figure 4 is a schematic perspective view of a compressed air storage device illustrating an air storage element disposed within a container element of one alternative embodiment.

[0025] Figure 5 is a schematic perspective view of a compressed air storage device illustrating an air storage element disposed within a container element of another alternative embodiment.

[0026] Figure 6 is a schematic perspective view of a compressed air storage device illustrating an air storage element disposed within a container element of yet another alternative embodiment.

[0027] Figure 7 is a schematic side cross-sectional view of the compressed air storage device of Figure 6

[0028] ​​Figure 8A is a perspective view of a conventional air compressor including a "hot dog" shaped conventional compressed air storage tank, Figure 8B is a schematic view of the general shape of the tank of Figure 8A, and Figure 8C is a cross-sectional view of the tank taken along lines 8C-8C, Figure 8B wherein the arrows are used to represent the lines of force on the inner surface of the tank.

[0029] Figure 9A is a perspective view of a conventional air compressor including a "waffle" shaped conventional compressed air storage tank, Figure 9B is a schematic view of the general shape of the tank of Figure 9A, and Figure 9C is a cross-sectional view of the tank taken along lines 9C-9C, Figure 9B wherein the arrows are used to represent the lines of force on the inner surface of the tank. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] Referring to Figure 1 and Figure 2 , the power tool system 15 includes a compressed air driven power tool 100, an air compressor 1, and a compressed air storage device 60. The power tool 100 can be a hand-held tool such as a nail gun, impact wrench, air ratchet wrench, air hammer, air drill, air sander, air grinder, spray gun, staple gun, or any other air driven power tool. The power tool 100 is directly connected to the air compressor 1 via the compressed air storage device 60. In the illustrated embodiment, the compressed air storage device 60 includes an elongated flexible air storage element 61 configured to store air that has been compressed to a pressure of 50 to 300 pounds per square inch (PSI) or more, and to provide a reservoir to stably supply pressurized air to the power tool 100 during tool operation. Additionally, the compressed air storage device 60 includes a lightweight container element 80 that receives and stores the air storage element 61 therein. The air compressor 1 includes a compressor housing 20 that includes a fluid coupling that allows for a fluid tight connection with the air storage device 60. The air storage element 61 is sufficiently flexible to allow for bending, including coiling, whereby the long air storage element 61 can be compactly stored in the container element 80 and transported with the air compressor 1. The compressed air storage device 60 can be used when the air storage element 61 is in a fully coiled and stowed configuration. Alternatively, the compressed air storage device 60 can be used when the air storage element 61 is in a partially stowed configuration, or when the air storage element 61 has been fully removed from the container element 80. The air compressor 1 and the compressed air storage device 60 will now be described in detail.

[0031] The air compressor 1 can be a positive displacement compressor, such as one provided by a reciprocating piston pump, but is not limited to this type of pump. The air compressor 1 includes a compressor housing 20, which is described in detail below. The compressor housing 20 encloses and / or supports other components of the air compressor 1, including the compressor pump 2, the motor 5, the controller 10, the human machine interface (HMI) 11, the battery 12, the pressure regulating device 13, and other ancillary components required for operation of the air compressor 1.

[0032] In the illustrated embodiment, the compressor pump 2 is a reciprocating piston pump, but can be another type of positive displacement pump. The compressor pump 2 uses one or more reciprocating pistons (not shown) to compress air. The compressor pump 2 includes an air inlet 3 and an air outlet 4.

[0033] The air inlet 3 is connected to a compressor intake valve 6 via a first fluid line 7. The intake valve 6 is supported on the compressor housing 20. When the intake valve 6 is in an open position, air in the environment of the compressor 1 (e.g., air at atmospheric pressure) is allowed to enter the first fluid line 7. When the intake valve 6 is in a closed position, air in the environment of the compressor 1 is prevented from entering the first fluid line 7. An air filter 14 can be provided at a location in the first fluid line 7 between the intake valve 6 and the pump air inlet 3.

[0034] The air outlet 4 is connected to a compressor discharge valve 8 via a second fluid line 9. The discharge valve 8 is supported on the compressor housing 20 and includes an integral fluid coupling 28. When the discharge valve 8 is in an open position, air that has been compressed by the compressor pump 2 is allowed to exit the compressor housing 20. If a compressed air storage device 60 is coupled to the discharge valve fluid coupling, air that has been compressed by the compressor pump 2 is allowed to enter the compressed air storage device 60. When the discharge valve 8 is in a closed position, compressed air is prevented from exiting the compressor housing 20.

[0035] The pressure regulating device 13 is configured to monitor the output pressure of the air compressor 1. In the illustrated embodiment, the pressure regulating device 13 can be a pressure switch that monitors the pressure of the fluid discharged from the compressor pump 2 and outputs a signal to the controller indicative of the detected pressure. For example, the pressure switch can detect the pressure of the second fluid line 9 at a location between the compressor pump 2 and the compressor discharge valve 8.

[0036] The motor 5 is an electric motor. In some embodiments, the motor 5 can be an induction motor, but is not limited to this type of motor. An output shaft (not shown) of the motor 5 is connected to the compressor pump 2, and the motor 5 drives the pump 2 to compress air.

[0037] In the illustrated embodiment, a battery 12 is contained in the compressor housing 20 and supplies power to the controller 10, which in turn supplies power to the motor 5. The battery 12 can be a rechargeable battery, which is charged via a separable wired connection to a utility power source. In some embodiments, the air compressor 1 can omit the battery 12 and obtain power via a direct wired connection to a utility power source. In still other embodiments, the air compressor 1 can include the battery 12 and be capable of being powered by either the battery 12 or a direct connection to a utility power source.

[0038] The controller 10 is communicatively coupled with the HMI 11, the battery 12, and the pressure regulating device 13, and is structured to control the motor 5 based on these inputs. As used herein, the term "communicatively coupled" can refer to a direct wired connection, for example, via conductive signal wires, a shared communication bus, or alternatively can refer to a wireless connection. Thus, the controller 10 can receive information from these devices and selectively activate and operate various operational components.

[0039] In some embodiments, the controller 10 includes one or more memory devices 10a and one or more processors 10b. The processor 10b can be any combination of general or special purpose processors, CPUs, etc., that can execute programmed instructions or control code associated with operation of the air compressor 1. The memory device (i.e., memory) 10a can represent random access memory, such as DRAM, or read only memory, such as ROM or FLASH. In some embodiments, the processor 10b executes programmed instructions stored in the memory 10a. The memory 10a can be a separate component from the processor 10b, or can be contained on board within the processor 10b. Alternatively, the controller 10 can be constructed without using a processor 10b, for example, using a combination of discrete analog or digital logic circuits (such as switches, amplifiers, integrators, comparators, flip-flops, AND gates, etc.) to perform control functions, rather than relying on software.

[0040] In some embodiments, the controller 10 includes a network interface, such that the controller 10 can connect to and communicate over one or more networks (not shown). The controller 10 can also include one or more transmitting, receiving, or transceiving components for transmitting and / or receiving communications with other devices that are communicatively coupled with the air compressor 1. Additionally or alternatively, the transmitting, receiving, or transceiving components can be located off board the controller 10. In general, the controller 10 can be positioned at any suitable location throughout the compressor housing 20.

[0041] The various functions performed by controller 10 can be implemented or supported by one or more computer programs, where each computer program is formed from computer readable program code and embodied in a computer readable medium. The terms "application" and "program" refer to one or more computer programs, software components, sets of instructions, procedures, functions, objects, classes, instances, related data, or portions thereof identifiable as a separate work, which are adapted for implementation in a suitable computer readable program code. The phrase "computer readable program code" includes any type of computer code, including source code, object code, and executable code. The phrase "computer readable medium" includes any type of medium capable of being accessed by a computer, such as read only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), a hard disk drive, a compact disc (CD), a digital video disc (DVD), or any other type of memory. A "non-transitory" computer readable medium excludes wired, wireless, optical, or other communication links that transport transitory electrical or other signals. A non-transitory computer readable medium includes media where data can be permanently stored and media where data can be stored and subsequently overwritten, such as a rewritable optical disc or an erasable memory device.

[0042] Compressor housing 20 includes an interior void that receives and supports compressor pump 2, motor 5, air filter 14, pressure regulating device 13, HMI 11, controller 10, intake valve 6 and discharge valve 8, and any ancillary components required for compressor operation.

[0043] HMI 11 is mounted on an exterior surface of compressor housing 20 and can include switches or other input devices and / or a display. HMI 11 is configured to allow a user to operate air compressor 1 and receive information about air compressor performance. In some embodiments, the display can be color, monochrome (e.g., grayscale), or a combination of both. The display can be implemented as any type of display, including a liquid crystal display (LCD), light emitting diode (LED), organic light emitting diode (OLED), or any other alternative configuration known to one of ordinary skill in the art. The display can provide touch screen functionality, and a pressure level selector can be integrated into HMI 11.

[0044] In the illustrated embodiment, discharge valve 8 terminates in a hose coupler 28 that protrudes from compressor housing 20 at a location adjacent to HMI 11, although not limited to this location. Hose coupler 28 is configured to provide a fluid-tight mechanical connection with a first coupler 64 of air storage device 60. Additionally, in some embodiments, hose coupler 28 can include a 360 degree bi-directional rotation function, enabling air storage device 60 to be rotated relative to compressor housing 20.

[0045] Reference is also made to Figure 3The compressed air storage device 60 includes an elongated flexible air storage element (or "tube") 61 and a container element 80. The air storage element 61 is usable in and / or stored in the container element 80 and also usable when partially contained within the container element 80 or fully withdrawn from the container element 80. The air storage element 61 is configured to store compressed air and provide a reservoir to stably supply pressurized air to the power tool 100 during tool operation.

[0046] The air storage element 61 includes an elongated tube having an element first end 62 that is detachably coupled to the hose coupler 28 of the exhaust valve 8 via an element first coupler 64. The air storage element 61 includes an element second end 63 opposite the element first end 62. The element second end 63 includes a device second coupler 65.

[0047] The element first coupler 64 is configured to detachably connect to the hose coupler 28 of the air compressor 1 in a fluid-tight manner, such as using a quick-connect fitting suitable for high pressure applications. Similarly, the element second coupler 65 is configured to detachably connect to the tool coupler 102 in a fluid-tight manner, such as using a quick-connect fitting suitable for high pressure applications. Alternatively, other fitting types can be employed as appropriate, such as threaded fittings or barbed fittings.

[0048] The air storage element 61 is elongated. In particular, the tube of the air storage element has a diameter d that is much smaller than the length (not shown) of the tube, where the length of the air storage element 61 corresponds to the distance between the element first end 62 and the element second end 63. The air storage element length is at least 10 times the diameter d of the air storage element 61. In some embodiments, the air storage element length is greater than 50 times the diameter d of the air storage element 61.

[0049] The size and capacity of the air storage element 61 can depend on factors such as the output capacity of the air compressor 1, the desired air pressure, and the air requirements of the particular application (e.g., the pressure required by the power tool 100). In some embodiments, the air storage device 60 has sufficient capacity to handle the required tool operation (including priming) pressure and provide sufficient storage capacity to meet the needs of the compressed air system. More specifically, the air storage element 61 has an internal volume that can require eight liters or more of storage capacity to maintain high air flow applications. However, most pneumatic tools are capable of operating with lower capacities. For example, a nail gun can operate using a one liter capacity. Increasing the internal volume of the air storage element by providing an air storage element 61 with increased length is one way to achieve increased storage capacity.

[0050] The tubular air storage element 61 is constructed using multiple layers of material to ensure durability, flexibility, and resistance to high-pressure air. In the illustrated embodiment, the air storage element 61 includes an inner tube 66, at least one reinforcement layer 68, and an outer tube 69. The innermost layer of the air storage element 61 is the inner tube 66, which is responsible for carrying the compressed air. The inner tube 66 can be made of a synthetic rubber or similar material that can withstand high-pressure air and resist degradation caused by oil or moisture. The reinforcement layers 68 surround the inner tube 66 and provide strength and stability to the air storage element 61. In the illustrated embodiment, there are four reinforcement layers 68. Each reinforcement layer can be made of a braided or spiral metal fiber or synthetic fiber (e.g., polyester or nylon). The reinforcement layers 68 help the air storage element 61 withstand the internal pressure caused by the compressed air and prevent the air storage element 61 from expanding or bursting. The outermost layer of the air storage element 61 is the outer tube 69, or cover, which protects the inner layers 66 and 68 from external damage, wear, and exposure to the elements. The outer tube 69 can be made of synthetic rubber or a mixture of rubber and other materials. The outer tube 69 is designed to be resistant to oil, chemicals, UV rays, and general wear and tear.The configuration of the air storage element 61 may vary depending on the specific application and the desired flexibility.

[0051] The compressed air storage device first and second couplers 64, 65 are connectors or fittings that allow for easy attachment to compressors and other pneumatic tools or equipment. The fittings of the device first and second couplers 64, 65 can be made of brass, steel, or other durable materials and are typically threaded or equipped with a quick-connect mechanism for a secure and leak-free connection.

[0052] Additionally, the compressed air storage device 60 includes a lightweight container element 80 that receives and stores the air storage element 61 therein. The container element 80 is shaped and sized to accommodate the air storage element 61 when in a folded, wrapped, coiled, randomly stacked, or other storage configuration. Figure 2 In the embodiment shown in , the container element 80 is a hollow cylindrical structure comprising a container sidewall 81, a container first end 82 and a container second end 83. The container first end 82 is a circular plate that is fixed to the sidewall first end 81 (1) and closes the sidewall first end 81 (1). The container first end 82 serves as a support base. The container second end 83 is a circular plate that is disposed at the sidewall second end 81 (2) opposite to the sidewall first end 81 (1). The container second end 83 serves as a lid. In some embodiments, the container second end 83 is detachably connected to the sidewall second end 81 (2), for example, by a press-fit connection, while in other embodiments, the container second end 83 is connected to the sidewall second end 81 (2) via a hinge and latch or other known connection methods.

[0053] Because the container element 80 is used as a storage device, the interior surface of the container element is subjected to atmospheric pressure. For this reason, the container element 80 can be formed of a thin, lightweight material, such as a sheet or injection molded plastic (shown), a plastic mesh, a woven fabric formed of natural or synthetic fibers, a plastic or wire fence, nylon webbing, or other suitable material. Although the container first end 82 can rest directly on a support surface, such as a floor or table, the container first end 82 can also be supported above the ground by feet (not shown), wheels (not shown), or casters (not shown).

[0054] In some embodiments, the container element 80 can include an opening 84 through which a portion of the air storage element 61 can extend to allow connection to an external device, such as the compressor 1. The location of the opening 84 can depend on the requirements of the application. In the illustrated embodiment, the opening 84 is located near the periphery of the container second end 83. Although only one opening 84 is shown, the container element can include multiple openings 84 for convenient access to the air storage element 61 and / or for weight reduction of the container element 80.

[0055] Reference is made to Figure 4 , the air storage device 160 of the alternative embodiment is similar to the air storage device 60 of Figures 1-3 , and common elements are referred to using common reference numerals. Figure 4 The air storage device 160 shown in Figure 4 , the container element 180 includes a three-dimensional support frame 182 that is covered in a coarse mesh fabric that provides the perforated side walls 81 of the container element 180. The mesh fabric can be natural fiber, plastic, or metal. The support frame 182 is not limited to being covered by a mesh. Other suitable materials can also be used, including but not limited to a sheet or injection molded plastic, a tightly woven fabric formed of natural or synthetic fibers, a plastic or wire fence, nylon webbing, etc. In the illustrated embodiment, the support frame 182 defines a rectangular enclosure. However, the support frame 182 is not limited to this configuration and can be formed in other shapes.

[0056] Although a lid or cover is not shown, the container element 180 can include a lid or cover if the particular application requires. Although the container first end 82 can rest directly on a support surface, such as a floor or table, the container first end 82 can also be supported above the ground by feet (not shown), wheels (not shown), or casters (not shown).

[0057] Reference is made to Figure 5The air storage device 260 of the alternative embodiment is similar to the air storage device 60 of Figures 1-3 and common reference numerals are used to refer to common elements. Figure 5 The air storage device 260 shown in Figure 5 is distinguished from the previous embodiments in that the air storage device 260 includes a container element 280 shaped and sized to contain the air storage element 61 when in a folded, wound, coiled, randomly stacked, or other storage configuration. In the illustrated embodiment, the container element 280 is a mesh bag without a support frame. In the illustrated embodiment, the container second end 82 is closed by a drawstring 285. The container element 280 can be carried by the drawstring 285. Alternatively, the container element 280 can include a soft handle or other suitable structure that facilitates lifting and carrying the container element 280.

[0058] Referring to Figure 6 and Figure 7 , the air storage device 360 of another alternative embodiment is similar to the air storage device 260 of Figure 5 and common reference numerals are used to refer to common elements. Figure 6 and Figure 7 The air storage device 360 shown in is distinguished from the previous embodiments in that the air storage device 360 includes a container element 380 shaped and sized to contain the air storage element 61 when in a folded, wound, coiled, randomly stacked, or other storage configuration. The container element 380 is a cloth or plastic bag having a backpack configuration. The container element 380 can optionally include a minimal internal support structure 385, as is sometimes provided in conventional backpacks. The container second end 82 can be selectively opened and closed by a zipper 384. The container second end 82 can also include a handle 388, and the container side wall 81 can be provided with adjustable shoulder straps. The backpack-style container element 380 can include a large external storage pocket 390 shaped and sized to support the air compressor 1, and the compressed air system 15 can be worn by the user during operation of the system.

[0059] In the power tool system 15, the power tool 100 is directly connected to the air compressor 1 via the compressed air storage device 60, 160, 260, 360. That is, the element first coupler 64 is directly connected to the coupler of the air compressor 1 discharge valve 8 without an intervening structure or device. In addition, the element second coupler 65 is directly connected to the tool coupler 102 of the power tool 100 without an intervening structure or device. Further, the air storage element 61 stores compressed air for driving the power tool 100 during use.

[0060] Although Figure 1 andFigure 2 An air storage device 60 is shown in which element first coupler 64 is connected to the hose coupler 28 of the air compressor 1 and in which element second coupler 65 is connected to the tool coupler 102, but the air storage device 60 is not limited to this configuration. For example, the air storage device 60 can be used in the reverse orientation.

[0061] The foregoing detailed description of the selected illustrative embodiment of a compressed air supply system including an air compressor and an air storage device has been presented. It is to be understood that only the structures deemed necessary to clarify the compressed air supply system have been described herein. Other conventional structures, as well as those of ancillary and subsidiary components of the compressed air supply system, are assumed to be known and understood by those having skill in the art. Moreover, while the foregoing description has been made of working examples of the compressed air supply system, the system is not limited to the working examples described above, but can be variously designed without departing from the system and / or its components as set forth in the claims.

Claims

1. A compressed air storage device configured to be connected to an air output of an air compressor, the compressed air storage device comprising an air storage element and a container element, wherein, the air storage element comprises a tubular body having a first end and a second end opposite the first end of the tube, the tubular body having a diameter and a length, wherein the length is equal to a distance between the first end of the tube and the second end of the tube when the tubular body is arranged parallel to a straight line, the length being at least fifty times the diameter, the tubular body comprises a reinforced tube wall, the container element comprises a container housing shaped and dimensioned to receive the air storage element therein.

2. The compressed air storage apparatus of claim 1, wherein, the container element comprises a side wall surrounding the air storage element and a closed end at one end of the side wall, and at least one of the side wall and the closed end comprises perforations.

3. The compressed air storage apparatus of claim 2, wherein, at least one of the side wall and the closed end is formed of a woven material.

4. The compressed air storage apparatus of claim 1, wherein, the container element comprises a side wall surrounding the air storage element and a closed end at one end of the side wall, and at least one of the side wall and the closed end is formed of a plastic.

5. The compressed air storage apparatus of claim 1, wherein, the container element comprises a side wall surrounding the air storage element and a closed end at one end of the side wall, and at least one of the side wall and the closed end is formed of a pliable material.

6. The compressed air storage apparatus of claim 1, wherein, the container element comprises a structural support frame and a woven fabric covering surrounding the support frame.

7. The compressed air storage apparatus of claim 1, wherein, the container housing is configured to be selectively opened and closed to allow access to an interior space of the container element.

8. The compressed air storage apparatus of claim 1, wherein, the container housing comprises a lid configured to allow access to an interior space of the container element.

9. An air compressor system comprising: an air compressor having an air output, and a compressed air storage device, the compressed air storage device comprising an air storage element and a container element, wherein, the air storage element comprises a tubular body having a first end operably connected to the air output and configured to store compressed air, and a second end opposite the first end of the tube, the tubular body having a diameter and a length, wherein the length is equal to a distance between the first end of the tube and the second end of the tube when the tubular body is arranged parallel to a straight line, the length being at least fifty times the diameter, the tubular body comprises a reinforced tube wall, the container element comprises a container housing shaped and dimensioned to receive the air storage element therein.

10. The air compressor system of claim 9, comprising an air drive tool, the air drive tool comprising a tool coupler, wherein, the second end of the tube is operably connected to the tool coupler.

11. The air compressor system of claim 9, wherein, the container element comprises a side wall surrounding the air storage element and a closed end at one end of the side wall, and at least one of the side wall and the closed end comprises perforations.

12. The air compressor system of claim 11, wherein, at least one of the side wall and the closed end is formed of a woven material.

13. The air compressor system of claim 9, wherein, the container element comprises a side wall surrounding the air storage element and a closed end at one end of the side wall, and at least one of the side wall and the closed end is formed of a plastic.

14. The air compressor system of claim 9, wherein, The container element includes a side wall surrounding the air storage element and a closed end at one end of the side wall, and at least one of the side wall and the closed end is formed of a pliable material.

15. The air compressor system of claim 9, wherein, The container element includes a structural support frame and a woven fabric covering that surrounds the support frame.

16. The air compressor system of claim 9, wherein, The container housing is configured to be selectively opened and closed to allow access to the interior space of the container element.

17. The air compressor system of claim 9, wherein, The container housing includes a lid that is configured to allow access to the interior space of the container element.

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