Control method for an impact wrench

Abstract

The application discloses a control method of an impact wrench, and belongs to the technical field of electric tools. The method comprises the following steps: providing at least two impact gears, each of which is provided with a default impact frequency value and a default impact time; in response to a first operation, entering a frequency setting mode and storing a user-defined impact frequency value; in response to a second operation, activating a time mode, and entering a time setting mode after a setting operation, and storing a user-defined impact time; reading a corresponding impact frequency value and performing impact when the impact gear is switched; if the time mode is not activated, the impact is continuously performed until the trigger is released; and if the time mode is activated, the impact is automatically stopped after the user-defined or default impact time is reached. The application improves the personalization degree and operation convenience of the frequency and time adjustment of the impact wrench.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of power tool technology, and more specifically, to a control method for an impact wrench. Background Technology

[0002] Impact wrenches, as a common power tool, are widely used in mechanical assembly, automotive repair, and construction installation. They achieve rapid tightening or loosening of bolts or nuts through high-frequency impact. As users' requirements for operational precision and efficiency continue to increase, the functions of impact wrenches are becoming increasingly diverse, gradually evolving from simple impact output towards intelligent features such as adjustable impact frequency and settable impact time.

[0003] However, existing impact wrenches lack sufficient personalization in their impact frequency and time adjustments. The impact frequency values ​​for each setting are typically factory presets, making it difficult for users to flexibly adjust the frequency values ​​according to personal habits or specific working conditions. Simultaneously, the time control function is relatively simple, preventing users from flexibly setting the impact duration based on actual work requirements. Furthermore, the frequency and time adjustment functions are independent, requiring users to repeatedly adjust multiple parameters between different settings during operation, which is cumbersome and impacts work efficiency. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The problem this invention addresses is how to improve the personalization and ease of operation of impact wrenches in terms of impact frequency and impact time adjustment.

[0005] To solve the above problems, the present invention provides a control method for an impact wrench, characterized in that it includes:

[0006] It provides at least two preset impact levels, each impact level corresponding to an adjustable impact frequency range, and each impact level has a default impact frequency value and a default impact time.

[0007] In response to the user's first operation on any impact level, the system enters the frequency setting mode, obtains the impact frequency value set by the user, and stores it as the user-defined impact frequency value for that impact level.

[0008] In response to a second operation by the user on the same impact level, the time mode is activated. After the time mode is activated, in response to the user's setting operation, the time setting mode is entered to obtain the impact time set by the user and store it as the user-defined impact time for that impact level.

[0009] When switching to any impact level, the user-defined impact frequency value for that impact level is read. If it is not stored, the default impact frequency value is called, and the impact is performed with the read or called impact frequency value.

[0010] Determine if time mode is active:

[0011] If not activated, continue firing until the trigger is released;

[0012] If the user-defined impact time for that impact level has been activated and stored, it will automatically stop after the user-defined impact time is reached.

[0013] If a user-defined impact time for that impact level has been activated but not stored, it will automatically stop after the default impact time is reached.

[0014] Optionally, the impact wrench is provided with a gear switching button. The first operation includes pressing the gear switching button to switch and select an impact gear. Each time the gear switching button is pressed, the impact gear switches to the next impact gear based on the current impact gear. When the gear switching button is pressed again after switching to the last impact gear, it switches back to the first impact gear.

[0015] Optionally, obtaining the user-defined impact frequency value includes:

[0016] In response to the number of times the user presses the trigger after pressing the forward switch, the current impact frequency value is increased by a first preset step size by a certain number of times;

[0017] In response to the number of times the user presses the trigger after pressing the reverse switch, the current impact frequency value is reduced by a second preset step size.

[0018] Optionally, the impact wrench is equipped with a frequency adjustment button, and the step of obtaining the user-set impact frequency value includes:

[0019] In response to the number of times the user presses the frequency adjustment button after pressing the forward rotation switch, the current impact frequency value is increased by a first preset step size by several times.

[0020] In response to the number of times the user presses the frequency adjustment button after pressing the reverse switch, the current impact frequency value is reduced by a second preset step size.

[0021] Optionally, the impact wrench is provided with a time mode button. The second operation is to press the time mode button to activate the time mode. After the time mode is activated, in response to the user's setting operation, the time setting mode is entered to obtain the impact time set by the user.

[0022] Optionally, in response to the user's setting operation, entering the time setting mode to obtain the impact time set by the user specifically involves: obtaining the actual duration for which the user continuously presses the trigger after the time mode is activated, and using the actual duration as the user-defined impact time.

[0023] Optionally, the step of entering the time setting mode in response to the user's setting operation to obtain the impact time set by the user includes:

[0024] In response to the number of times the user presses the trigger after pressing the forward switch, the current impact time is increased by a third preset step by several times;

[0025] In response to the number of times the user presses the trigger after pressing the reverse switch, the current impact time is reduced by a fourth preset step.

[0026] Optionally, the impact wrench is equipped with time increment / decrement buttons, and the step of entering a time setting mode in response to a user's setting operation to obtain the user-set impact time includes:

[0027] In response to the number of times the user presses the time increment / decrease button after pressing the forward switch, the current impact time is increased by a third preset step by a certain number of times;

[0028] In response to the number of times the user presses the time increment / decrease button after pressing the reverse switch, the current impact time is reduced by a fourth preset step size.

[0029] Optionally, a memory step may also be included:

[0030] When the impact wrench is turned off, the current impact gear, the user-defined impact frequency value stored in the impact gear, and the user-defined impact time stored in the impact gear are recorded.

[0031] When the impact wrench is turned on again, it automatically enters the impact gear recorded before shutdown, reads the user-defined impact frequency value stored in the impact gear, and performs the impact; the time mode is inactive by default.

[0032] Optionally, the impact wrench is equipped with an indicator light and a display screen;

[0033] The indicator lights include a gear indicator light group for indicating the current impact gear and a mode indicator light for indicating whether the time mode is activated. The gear indicator light group includes several indicator lights that correspond one-to-one with the at least two impact gears. The indicator light corresponding to the currently selected impact gear is lit.

[0034] The display screen is used to display the impact frequency value and impact time corresponding to the current impact level.

[0035] The beneficial effects of the control method for the impact wrench of the present invention are as follows: By independently configuring a frequency setting mode and a time setting mode for each impact gear, users can individually adjust and store the impact frequency and impact time for each impact gear in the corresponding impact gear. When switching impact gears, the user automatically calls the stored custom impact frequency and custom impact time for that impact gear to perform the impact operation, thereby effectively improving the personalized adjustment capability and ease of operation of the impact wrench, simplifying the parameter adjustment steps when switching impact gears, and meeting the diverse needs of different working conditions and different users for impact frequency and impact time. Attached Figure Description

[0036] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the control panel of an impact wrench according to one embodiment of the present invention;

[0037] Figure 2 This is a flowchart illustrating a control method for an impact wrench according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0039] 1. Gear shift button; 2. Time mode button; 3. Frequency adjustment button; 4. Time increment / decrease button; 5. Gear indicator light group; 6. Mode indicator light; 7. Display screen. Detailed Implementation

[0040] To make the above-mentioned objects, features, and advantages of the present invention more apparent and understandable, specific embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Although some embodiments of the present invention are shown in the drawings, it should be understood that the present invention can be implemented in various forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided to provide a more thorough and complete understanding of the present invention. It should be understood that the accompanying drawings and embodiments of the present invention are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0041] The term "comprising" and its variations as used herein are open-ended, meaning "including but not limited to"; the term "based on" means "at least partially based on"; the term "one embodiment" means "at least one embodiment"; the term "another embodiment" means "at least one additional embodiment"; the term "some embodiments" means "at least some embodiments"; and the term "optionally" means "optional embodiments". Definitions of other terms will be given in the following description. It should be noted that the concepts of "first," "second," etc., mentioned in this invention are used only to distinguish different devices, modules, or units, and are not intended to limit the order of functions performed by these devices, modules, or units or their interdependencies.

[0042] It should be noted that the terms "a" and "a plurality of" used in this invention are illustrative rather than restrictive. Those skilled in the art should understand that, unless otherwise expressly indicated in the context, they should be understood as "one or more".

[0043] like Figure 1 As shown, the impact wrench is equipped with a control panel, which includes a gear shift button 1, a time mode button 2, and a display screen 7.

[0044] Each time the gear shift button 1 is pressed, the impact gear shifts to the next impact gear based on the current impact gear. After shifting to the last impact gear, pressing the gear shift button 1 again will shift back to the first impact gear.

[0045] The control panel also has a gear indicator light group 5, which includes a first gear indicator light, a second gear indicator light, and a third gear indicator light that correspond one-to-one with the three impact gears. The indicator light corresponding to the currently selected impact gear is lit, and the other indicator lights are off.

[0046] The control panel also features a mode indicator light 6 to indicate whether the time mode is active. When the time mode is active, the mode indicator light 6 will illuminate or flash. The display screen 7 shows the impact frequency and impact time corresponding to the current impact level.

[0047] The control panel 2 is also equipped with a frequency adjustment button 3 and a time increment / decrement button 4, which are used to adjust the impact frequency and impact time of the current impact gear in stepwise manner in frequency setting mode and time setting mode, respectively.

[0048] like Figure 2 As shown in the figure, an embodiment of the present invention provides a control method for an impact wrench, comprising:

[0049] It provides at least two preset impact levels, each impact level corresponding to an adjustable impact frequency range, and each impact level has a default impact frequency value and a default impact time.

[0050] In response to the user's first operation on any impact level, the system enters the frequency setting mode, obtains the impact frequency value set by the user, and stores it as the user-defined impact frequency value for that impact level.

[0051] In response to a second user operation on the same impact level, the time mode is activated. After the time mode is activated, in response to the user's setting operation, the time setting mode is entered to obtain the user-set impact time and store it as the user-defined impact time for that impact level.

[0052] When switching to any impact level, the user-defined impact frequency value for that impact level is read. If it is not stored, the default impact frequency value is called, and the impact is performed with the read or called impact frequency value.

[0053] Determine if time mode is active:

[0054] If not activated, continue firing until the trigger is released;

[0055] If the user-defined impact time for that impact level has been activated and stored, it will automatically stop after the user-defined impact time is reached.

[0056] If a user-defined impact time for that impact level has been activated but not saved, it will automatically stop after the default impact time is reached.

[0057] Specifically, in this embodiment of the invention, the impact wrench has at least two preset impact levels (e.g., level one, level two, and level three), each corresponding to an adjustable impact frequency range. This range can be preset according to the design parameters of the impact wrench and the performance of the motor, for example, from 100 to 5000 times per minute. Simultaneously, each impact level is factory-set with a default impact frequency value (e.g., 500 times / minute, 2000 times / minute, 4000 times / minute) and a default impact time (e.g., 1 second, 3 seconds, 5 seconds) to ensure normal operation even without user-defined settings. In practical applications, the default impact frequency value and default impact time for each impact level can be the same or different, specifically configured differently according to the design positioning of each level (e.g., low levels are suitable for low-torque bolts, and high levels are suitable for high-torque bolts).

[0058] In actual use, when it is necessary to personalize the impact frequency value of a certain impact gear, the user can trigger the frequency setting mode through a first operation. The specific implementation of this first operation is not limited; for example, it can be achieved by long-pressing the gear switching button 1 or by selecting via a touchscreen. In one specific embodiment, the impact wrench is equipped with a gear switching button 1. By pressing this button, the user can sequentially switch and select different impact gears and simultaneously enter the frequency setting mode. After entering the frequency setting mode, the user can adjust the current impact frequency value of the impact gear to the desired value through frequency adjustment operations (such as pressing the forward switch and then pressing the trigger to increase the frequency value, or pressing the reverse switch and then pressing the trigger to decrease the frequency value). After adjustment, the impact frequency value is saved as the user-defined impact frequency value for that impact gear and stored in the non-volatile memory of the impact wrench for continued effectiveness in subsequent use.

[0059] Users can also personalize the impact time for the same impact level. When setting the time, the user first activates the time mode through a second operation. This second operation can be a separate operation from the first, such as pressing the time mode button 2, to avoid confusion with the frequency setting operation. After the time mode is activated, the impact wrench has a timed stop function in subsequent impact operations—if the user does not further set a custom impact time, it will automatically stop at the default impact time for that impact level; if the user wishes to customize the impact time, they can enter the time setting mode through the setting operation after the time mode is activated, and store the user-defined impact time as the user-defined impact time for that impact level.

[0060] Users can set the impact time in two ways, including but not limited to: One is "learning mode," where the user continuously presses the trigger, and the system records the actual duration of the trigger press, using this time as the user-defined impact time for that impact level; the other is "button adjustment mode," where the user adjusts the impact time incrementally using the time increment / decrement buttons (4), and the adjusted impact time becomes the user-defined impact time. Through these methods, users can flexibly set the impact time for each impact level according to actual operational needs, and the impact frequency and impact time are stored together under the same impact level, forming a complete custom parameter configuration for each impact level.

[0061] It should be noted that activating the time mode and entering the time setting mode are two separate operations. Pressing the time mode button 2 activates the time mode, enabling the timer stop function (which can stop at the default time). Further setting operations (such as continuously pressing the trigger or using the time increment / decrement buttons 4) enter the time setting mode, where users can customize specific time values. Users can choose to activate the time mode and use the default time, or they can further set custom times; both methods are within the scope of this invention.

[0062] When the user switches to any impact gear and starts the impact wrench, the controller first reads the user-defined impact frequency value stored for that impact gear. If the impact gear has been adjusted by the user and a user-defined impact frequency value is stored, the controller directly uses that user-defined value to control the impact frequency output. If the impact gear has never been adjusted by the user (i.e., no user-defined impact frequency value is stored), the controller automatically uses the factory-preset default impact frequency value for that impact gear. The above judgment and recall process is completed automatically by the controller without manual intervention from the user, ensuring that the impact wrench can perform impact operations at an effective impact frequency value under any circumstances.

[0063] During the aforementioned impact execution process, the controller also needs to determine whether the time mode has been activated by the user. Activating the time mode is different from entering the time setting mode mentioned earlier: the time mode is the function-enabled state during the impact operation, which the user can activate by pressing the time mode button 2; while the time setting mode is an operational state entered by the user through a setting operation, provided the time mode is already activated, used to set or store the impact time. Both work together to complete the time setting and subsequent automatic stop function, but the time mode focuses on "execution" (determining whether to enable timed stop), while the time setting mode focuses on "setting" (determining the specific time threshold for stopping), and activating the time mode is a prerequisite for entering the time setting mode. Users can independently control the time mode to be turned on or off, giving them the flexibility to choose whether to enable the timed stop function.

[0064] Specifically: If the time mode is not activated, the impact wrench continuously outputs impact in the traditional way until the user releases the trigger. This method is suitable for work scenarios that do not require precise control of the impact time (such as continuous tightening operations), thus preserving the user experience of traditional wrenches. If the time mode is activated, the controller further reads the user-defined impact time stored for that impact setting: if the impact setting has been set by the user and a user-defined impact time is stored, the user-defined impact time is used as the timing threshold for automatic stop, and the impact output automatically stops after the impact duration reaches the threshold; if the impact setting has not been set by the user (i.e., no user-defined impact time is stored), the default impact time preset at the factory for that impact setting is used as the timing threshold, and the output automatically stops after the default time is reached. Through the above control process of "activation judgment - time reading - threshold comparison - automatic stop", precise control of the impact operation time is achieved.

[0065] In summary, the control method for the impact wrench provided in this embodiment of the invention, by independently configuring custom storage spaces for frequency and time parameters for each impact gear, enables frequency and time adjustments to no longer be independent operations, but rather to be associated and coordinated within the same impact gear framework. Simultaneously, by setting an independent time mode activation judgment mechanism—pressing the time mode button 2 activates the timed stop function; after activation, if no custom time is set, it automatically stops at the default time; if a custom time is set, it stops at the custom time—providing flexible time control options while retaining traditional operating habits. The entire control process is automatically executed by the controller inside the impact wrench. Users only need to complete parameter settings and function switching through simple button or trigger operations, making operation intuitive and convenient, effectively improving the intelligence level and user experience of the impact wrench.

[0066] In this embodiment, by independently setting frequency and time setting modes for each impact gear, users can personalize and store the impact frequency and impact time for each gear according to their personal usage habits or specific working conditions. This significantly improves the personalized adaptability of the impact wrench and overcomes the shortcomings of existing products where the parameters for each gear are fixed at the factory and cannot be flexibly adjusted by users. Furthermore, by storing the impact frequency and impact time together under the same impact gear, and automatically calling the corresponding custom parameters for that impact gear when switching gears, the tedious operation of repeatedly adjusting multiple parameters between different functional modes is avoided, simplifying the work process and improving work efficiency. Moreover, by setting an independent time mode activation judgment mechanism—the time mode is activated through a second operation (pressing the time mode button 2)—users can flexibly choose whether to enable the timed stop function according to actual work needs; when not activated, it continues to impact in the traditional way, and when activated, it automatically stops at the custom or default impact time—preserving the operating habits of traditional wrenches while providing precise time control capabilities, meeting the different requirements for impact duration in diverse work scenarios. Meanwhile, by adding a customizable storage function for impact frequency and impact time, the impact wrench can "remember" the user's personalized settings, avoiding repeated settings and further improving ease of use and user experience.

[0067] Optionally, the impact wrench is provided with a gear switching button 1. The first operation includes pressing the gear switching button 1 to switch and select the impact gear. Each time the gear switching button 1 is pressed, the impact gear is switched to the next impact gear based on the current impact gear. After switching to the last impact gear, pressing the gear switching button 1 again switches back to the first impact gear.

[0068] Specifically, the impact wrench has a dedicated gear switching button 1, which the user presses to select the desired impact gear. This button uses a cyclic switching logic: with each press, the impact gear sequentially switches to the next gear, specifically: first gear → second gear → third gear → ... → Nth gear. When the impact gear is at the last gear, pressing the button again does not leave it at the last gear or result in an error; instead, it cycles back to the first gear, forming a continuous circular switching sequence. This switching process is executed by the controller in response to each button press. Each press advances the impact gear, allowing the user to directly select the new gear without further confirmation. Through this cyclic switching mechanism, the user can quickly traverse all impact gears and select the target gear, providing a basis for subsequent frequency and time customization for specific impact gears.

[0069] In this optional embodiment, by using a single gear switching button 1 in conjunction with a cyclic switching logic, the user only needs to press once with one hand to complete the impact gear switching operation. This eliminates the need to visually search for multiple buttons or perform complex button combinations, significantly simplifying the human-computer interaction steps for impact gear selection and reducing the user's operational burden and learning cost. This is particularly suitable for handheld operation scenarios where the user's attention is focused on the workpiece. Furthermore, by adopting a cyclic switching method where the beginning and end are connected, regardless of the current impact gear, the user can continuously press the button to traverse all impact gears in the same direction and eventually return to the initial impact gear. The switching path is clear and predictable, ensuring the unidirectional continuity and efficiency of the impact gear switching operation. Furthermore, this cyclic switching logic works in conjunction with the entry methods for frequency setting mode and time setting mode. After the user selects the impact gear, if the frequency needs to be adjusted, the user can enter the frequency setting mode through the first operation. If the user needs to activate the time mode and subsequently set the time, the user can do so through the second operation and the setting operation. After selecting the impact gear, the user can immediately customize the frequency or time of the impact gear without any additional confirmation steps, providing a fast and intuitive operation entry for the personalized adjustment of the impact gear parameters.

[0070] Optionally, the user-defined impact frequency value is obtained, including:

[0071] In response to the number of times the user presses the trigger after pressing the forward switch, the current impact frequency value is increased by a first preset step size by a certain number of times;

[0072] In response to the number of times the user presses the trigger after pressing the reverse switch, the current impact frequency value is reduced by a second preset step size.

[0073] Specifically, the impact wrench is equipped with a forward switch and a reverse switch, which are usually a reversing lever or electronic switch upstream of the trigger, used to control the output rotation direction of the impact wrench. When the user enters the frequency setting mode through the first operation and needs to personalize the impact frequency value of the currently selected impact gear, they first operate the forward or reverse switch to inform the controller that the impact frequency will be increased or decreased. Then, the adjustment amount is controlled by pressing the trigger a certain number of times.

[0074] Specifically, the user first toggles the forward switch (setting the reversing switch to the forward position). Then, each time the trigger is pressed, the controller increases the current impact frequency value by a first preset step; pressing the trigger n times increases it by n times the first preset step. Similarly, the user first toggles the reverse switch (setting the reversing switch to the reverse position). Then, each time the trigger is pressed, the controller decreases the current impact frequency value by a second preset step; pressing the trigger m times decreases it by m times the second preset step. In this operation, the trigger no longer merely acts as the actuator to initiate the impact, but in frequency setting mode, it is reused as an incremental / decrease input confirmation component for impact frequency adjustment. The forward and reverse switches act as switching control components for the adjustment direction. Together, these three components form a frequency adjustment mechanism of "direction selection + step input." Responding to the user's series of operations, the controller ultimately stores the adjusted impact frequency value as the user-defined impact frequency value for that gear.

[0075] In this optional embodiment, the existing forward switch, reverse switch, and trigger on the impact wrench are reused as frequency adjustment operation components. This eliminates the need for separate increase and decrease buttons for frequency adjustment, saving physical space on the control panel while achieving personalized frequency adjustment. This reduces hardware costs and structural complexity, making it particularly suitable for portable handheld tools with limited control panel space. Furthermore, the mapping between the forward switch and increasing frequency, and between the reverse switch and decreasing frequency, aligns with the user's intuitive understanding of "forward = forward = increase, reverse = backward = decrease." The operating logic is consistent with the user's natural thinking habits, requiring no additional learning or memorization, significantly reducing the user's learning cost and the probability of misoperation.

[0076] Optionally, the impact wrench is equipped with a frequency adjustment button 3 to obtain the user-set impact frequency value, including:

[0077] In response to the number of times the user presses the frequency adjustment button 3 after pressing the forward rotation switch, the current impact frequency value is increased by a first preset step by several times;

[0078] In response to the number of times the user presses the frequency adjustment button 3 after pressing the reverse switch, the current impact frequency value is reduced by a second preset step size.

[0079] Specifically, in addition to forward and reverse switches, the impact wrench also has a dedicated frequency adjustment button 3, which is a separate frequency adjustment component from the trigger. When the user enters the frequency setting mode through the first operation and needs to personalize the impact frequency value of the currently selected gear, they first select the adjustment direction using the forward or reverse switch, and then control the adjustment amount by pressing the frequency adjustment button 3 a certain number of times.

[0080] Specifically, the user first operates the forward switch, and then each press of the frequency adjustment button 3 increases the current impact frequency value by a first preset step; pressing it n times increases the value by n times the first preset step. Similarly, the user first operates the reverse switch, and then each press of the frequency adjustment button 3 decreases the current impact frequency value by a second preset step; pressing it m times decreases the value by m times the second preset step. In this operation, the frequency adjustment button 3 serves as a dedicated input component for frequency adjustment, specifically used to output step adjustment commands; the forward and reverse switches act as control components for switching the adjustment direction, determining whether the frequency value increases or decreases. The controller responds to the user's combined operation of the direction switch and the frequency adjustment button 3, ultimately storing the adjusted frequency value as the user-defined frequency value for that gear.

[0081] In this optional embodiment, by setting an independent frequency adjustment button 3, the frequency adjustment operation has a clearly defined dedicated operating component, making the operation direction clearer and more definite. The independent button facilitates the setting of better tactile feedback (such as button travel, pressing feel, click sound, etc.), allowing users to obtain clearer confirmation through touch and hearing when counting the number of presses, further reducing the probability of counting errors and improving adjustment accuracy.

[0082] Optionally, the impact wrench is equipped with a time mode button 2. The second operation is to press the time mode button 2 to activate the time mode. After the time mode is activated, in response to the user's setting operation, it enters the time setting mode to obtain the impact time set by the user.

[0083] Specifically, the impact wrench has a time mode button 2, which the user can press to activate the time mode. This time mode button 2 is a dedicated physical button, separate from the gear shift button 1, and serves as the activation entry point for the time mode. In the normal standby or operating state of the impact wrench, the time mode is inactive, and the impact wrench continues to impact in the traditional manner until the trigger is released. When the user needs to enable the timed stop function for the currently selected impact gear, simply press the time mode button 2, and the controller will respond to the press operation, activating the time mode. After the time mode is activated, the impact wrench has a timed stop function—if the user does not further set a custom time, it will automatically stop after the default impact time for that gear is reached; if the user wishes to customize the impact time, they can enter the time setting mode after the time mode is activated, and the set impact time will be stored as the user-defined impact time for the current gear.

[0084] Pressing the time mode button 2 acts as a trigger switch for the time function. Its purpose is to switch the time mode from an inactive state to an active state, allowing the controller to recognize the activation of the time mode during impact execution and execute the timed stop judgment logic accordingly. Entering the time setting mode is a further optional operation after activating the time mode. Logically, there is a hierarchical order to these two operations—pressing the time mode button 2 activates the time mode, while entering the time setting mode requires the user to perform additional setting operations (such as continuously pressing the trigger or operating the time increment / decrement button 4) after the time mode is activated, to customize specific time values. This hierarchical distinction allows users to flexibly choose: simply activate the time mode to use the default time, or activate it and further set a custom time.

[0085] In this optional embodiment, by setting a dedicated time mode button 2, users can directly activate the time mode by pressing a single button. This minimizes the operation path and steps, eliminating the need to memorize complex key combinations or navigate through multi-level menus, significantly reducing the learning curve and operational threshold for users. Furthermore, the dedicated button clearly distinguishes the activation of the time mode from the entry of the frequency setting mode at the physical button level. Users can trigger different functional modes using different buttons, effectively avoiding the operational complexity and memory burden associated with switching modes using different operation methods such as long presses, short presses, and double-clicks on the same button. This improves the efficiency and accuracy of user operations in scenarios with multiple parameter settings.

[0086] Optionally, in response to the user's setting operation, the system enters a time setting mode to obtain the user-defined impact time. Specifically, it obtains the actual duration for which the user continuously presses the trigger after the time mode is activated, and uses this actual duration as the user-defined impact time.

[0087] Specifically, after activating the time mode by pressing the time mode button 2, the user expresses their desired impact duration by continuously pressing the trigger. The controller detects and records the actual duration from when the user starts pressing the trigger to when they release it, and then stores this actual duration as the user-defined impact time for the current gear. During this operation, the trigger's function is reused from impact start / stop control in the regular impact operation mode to time input and learning components in the time setting mode.

[0088] Specifically, the length of time a user presses and holds the trigger represents the desired impact duration, and releasing the trigger indicates that the impact time has been recorded. The controller uses a built-in timer or timer module to accurately measure the duration the trigger is continuously pressed (e.g., starting the timer from the moment the trigger is pressed until the moment it is released), and converts this measured duration into a time parameter stored in the current impact level as the user-defined impact time for that level. This allows users to set the time simply by simulating the target impact duration with their actual pressing action, without having to manually add or subtract values ​​using buttons or input specific values.

[0089] In this optional embodiment, the user only needs to press the time mode button 2 to activate the time mode, and then press and hold the trigger for the required duration, just like performing an actual impact operation, to complete the time setting. There's no need to understand the conversion relationship between abstract time units such as "seconds" and "milliseconds" and the number of button presses, nor is there a need for repeated button presses to approach the target value. Instead, the user expresses their time requirements through the most natural and intuitive "simulation demonstration," making the operation intuitive and easy to understand. This is especially suitable for users unfamiliar with digital parameter settings, significantly reducing learning costs and operational barriers. Furthermore, the press-to-learn method ensures that the impact time set by the user has a high degree of scenario relevance—when setting the time, the user can perceive the correspondence between the pressing duration and the actual impact duration in real time, thereby setting an impact time that more closely matches the actual operation requirements. This avoids the problem of the set value deviating from the actual requirement due to time unit perception deviations in the button adjustment method.

[0090] Optionally, in response to a user's setting operation, a time setting mode is entered to obtain the user-set impact time, including:

[0091] In response to the number of times the user presses the trigger after pressing the forward switch, the current impact time is increased by a third preset step by several times;

[0092] In response to the number of times the user presses the trigger after pressing the reverse switch, the current impact time is reduced by a fourth preset step.

[0093] Specifically, after the user activates the time mode by pressing the time mode button 2, they can enter the time setting mode by performing a setting operation (i.e., pressing the forward switch and then the trigger, or pressing the reverse switch and then the trigger). The impact wrench reuses the forward switch, reverse switch, and trigger as operating components for time adjustment. The forward and reverse switches are used to select the direction of time adjustment, and the trigger is used to input the number of steps for adjustment.

[0094] Specifically, if the user wishes to increase the current impact time, they first operate the forward switch. Then, each time the trigger is pressed, the controller increases the current impact time by a third preset step. Pressing the trigger n times increases the impact time by n times. If the user wishes to decrease the current impact time, they first operate the reverse switch. Then, each time the trigger is pressed, the controller decreases the current impact time by a fourth preset step. Pressing the trigger m times decreases the impact time by m times.

[0095] During the above operation, the forward switch corresponds to "increasing time" and the reverse switch corresponds to "decreasing time," which aligns with the user's intuitive understanding that forward rotation represents increasing time and reverse rotation represents decreasing time. The controller responds to the user's combined operation of the direction switch and trigger, gradually adjusting the current impact time. After adjustment, this value is stored as the user-defined impact time for the current gear.

[0096] In this optional embodiment, the user first needs to press the time mode button 2 to activate the time mode, and then use the combination of the forward or reverse switch and the trigger to complete the step adjustment of the impact time. The operation logic is clear and the steps are distinct. By reusing the existing forward switch, reverse switch and trigger on the impact wrench as the operating components for time adjustment, there is no need to add an additional independent time increment / decrease button 4 for the time adjustment function. While realizing the personalized time adjustment function, it minimizes the number of buttons on the control panel, saves physical space and reduces hardware costs. It is especially suitable for miniaturized handheld tools with limited control panel space.

[0097] Optionally, the impact wrench is equipped with time increment / decrement buttons 4, which, in response to user setting operations, enter time setting mode to obtain the user-defined impact time, including:

[0098] In response to the number of times the user presses the forward switch and then presses the button 4 to adjust the pressing time, the current impact time will be increased by a third preset step by several times.

[0099] In response to the number of times the user presses the reverse switch and then presses the button 4 to adjust the pressing time, the current impact time is reduced by a fourth preset step.

[0100] Specifically, in addition to forward and reverse switches, the impact wrench also has a dedicated time adjustment button 4, which is a separate time adjustment component from the trigger. The user first activates the time mode by pressing the time mode button 2, and then enters the time setting mode by setting the time (i.e., the combination of forward or reverse switch and time adjustment button 4) to adjust the current impact time.

[0101] Specifically, if the user wishes to increase the current impact time, they first operate the forward switch, and then press the time increment / decrease button 4 once. Each press increases the current impact time by a third preset step; pressing it n times increases the time by n times the third preset step. If the user wishes to decrease the current impact time, they first operate the reverse switch, and then press the time increment / decrease button 4 once. Each press decreases the current impact time by a fourth preset step; pressing it m times decreases the time by m times the fourth preset step. In this operation, the time increment / decrease button 4 serves as a dedicated input for time adjustment, specifically for outputting step adjustment commands; the forward and reverse switches act as control components for switching the adjustment direction, determining whether the impact time is increased or decreased. The controller responds to the user's combined operation of the direction switch and the time increment / decrease button 4, gradually adjusting the current impact time. After adjustment, this impact time is stored as the user-defined impact time for the current gear.

[0102] In this optional embodiment, the user first needs to press the time mode button 2 to activate the time mode, and then enter the time setting mode by using the forward or reverse switch in combination with the time increment / decrease buttons 4 to complete the step adjustment of the impact time. The operation logic is clear and the levels are distinct. By setting an independent time increment / decrease button 4, the time adjustment operation has a clear and dedicated operating component, making the operation direction clearer and more definite.

[0103] Furthermore, this embodiment, together with the press-to-learn method and trigger adjustment method specified in the above embodiments, constitutes three parallel selectable implementation methods for time setting in this invention. This enables the impact wrench to simultaneously support three time setting methods: "press-to-learn", "trigger step adjustment", and "dedicated button step adjustment". Users can freely choose the most suitable setting method according to specific usage scenarios, personal operating habits, and different requirements for time accuracy, which greatly improves the product's user adaptability and market competitiveness.

[0104] Optionally, a memory step may also be included:

[0105] When the impact wrench is turned off, record the current impact gear, the user-defined impact frequency value stored in that impact gear, and the user-defined impact time stored in that impact gear.

[0106] When the impact wrench is turned on again, it automatically enters the impact gear recorded before it was turned off, reads the user-defined impact frequency value stored in that impact gear, and performs the impact; the time mode is inactive by default.

[0107] Specifically, when the impact wrench is turned off, it is not simply a matter of powering off and resetting to zero. Instead, the controller records and saves the key parameters of the current operating state—the current impact gear, the user-defined frequency value stored for that gear, and the user-defined impact time stored for that gear—in non-volatile memory. When the user turns the wrench back on, the controller automatically reads the recorded information, restores the impact wrench to the impact gear it was in before powering off, and executes the impact using the user-defined frequency value for that gear. This achieves "power-off memory" and "power-on recovery" of the gear and frequency parameters.

[0108] Meanwhile, the time mode is inactive by default upon power-on. This means that although the user-defined impact time is recorded and saved, it does not automatically take effect after power-on. The user needs to press the time mode button 2 again to activate the time mode before the customized impact time will be used as the timing threshold for automatic stop. This memory strategy of recording the impact time but not automatically activating the time mode preserves the user-defined time parameters while preventing unexpected shutdowns that might occur if the time mode automatically took effect upon power-on, thus balancing the convenience of parameter memory with the safety of impact operations.

[0109] In this optional embodiment, by recording the current gear and its custom frequency value when the machine is powered off, and automatically restoring it upon power-on, the user does not need to reset the frequency value of frequently used gears each time the machine is powered on, nor does the user need to repeatedly press the gear shift button 1 to move from the initial gear to the target gear. This significantly reduces repetitive setting operations and is especially suitable for usage scenarios that require frequent power-on and power-off or repeated use of the same parameter settings between different work batches, effectively improving work efficiency and user experience. By automatically reading and executing the custom frequency value upon power-on, the impact wrench ensures that it has the impact output characteristics expected by the user at the moment of power-on, avoiding invalid impacts or workpiece damage caused by the default frequency value not matching the actual work requirements. Furthermore, by setting the time mode to be inactive by default after power-on, the user-defined impact time is saved but does not automatically take effect. Users can decide whether to enable the timed stop function according to their actual work needs. If time control is required, press the time mode button 2 to activate the time mode (after activation, if no further custom time is set, it will automatically stop at the default impact time; if a custom time has been stored, it will automatically stop at the custom time). If not, the operation can proceed directly. This preserves the user's historically set impact time and avoids the impact operation from unexpectedly stopping before the user is ready due to the time mode automatically taking effect after power-on, thus balancing the convenience and safety of operation.

[0110] Optionally, the impact wrench is equipped with an indicator light and a display screen 7;

[0111] The indicator lights include a gear indicator light group 5 for indicating the current impact gear and a mode indicator light 6 for indicating whether the time mode is activated. The gear indicator light group 5 includes several indicator lights that correspond one-to-one with at least two impact gears. The indicator light corresponding to the currently selected impact gear is lit.

[0112] Display screen 7 is used to display the impact frequency value and impact time corresponding to the current impact level.

[0113] Specifically, the impact wrench is equipped with an indicator light group and a display screen 7. The indicator light group includes two types of indicator lights with different functions: the gear indicator light group 5 is used to indicate to the user the current impact gear, which includes several indicator lights (such as the first gear indicator light, the second gear indicator light, and the third gear indicator light) that correspond one-to-one with at least two impact gears. The controller controls the corresponding indicator light to light up according to the currently selected impact gear, while the other indicator lights are turned off, thereby providing the user with visual feedback on the gear status in the form of light signals; the mode indicator light 6 is used to indicate to the user whether the time mode has been activated. When the user presses the time mode button 2 to activate the time mode, this indicator light lights up or indicates that the time mode is active in a specific way (such as constantly lit or flashing). When the time mode is not activated, the indicator light is off.

[0114] Meanwhile, the impact wrench is also equipped with a display screen 7, which is used to intuitively display the impact frequency value and impact time corresponding to the current impact gear in the form of numbers or characters, including default values ​​or user-defined values, so that the user can accurately read the current parameter values.

[0115] The aforementioned indicator lights and display screen 7 provide users with the current working status and parameter information of the impact wrench through two different information presentation methods: "status indication" and "numerical display". The indicator lights provide immediate and overview status identification, while the display screen 7 provides accurate and detailed data reading.

[0116] In this optional embodiment, by setting multiple indicator lights that correspond one-to-one with the impact gear, the user does not need to get close to observe or memorize the current gear number. They can quickly identify the current impact gear by simply looking at it from the corner of their eye. This is especially suitable for scenarios where the user's attention is focused on the workpiece during operation and they cannot look at the control panel for a long time, which significantly improves the convenience and safety of gear identification.

[0117] By setting up a separate mode indicator light 6 to specifically indicate whether the time mode is activated, users can clearly see at a glance whether the timed stop function is currently enabled—that is, whether the time mode has been activated by pressing the time mode button 2—thus clearly distinguishing between the two different impact stop logics of "time mode activated (will automatically stop at a custom or default time)" and "time mode not activated (will continue to impact until the trigger is released)," avoiding misjudgments caused by unclear time mode status and ensuring the controllability and safety of impact operations.

[0118] By setting the display screen 7 to digitally display the impact frequency and impact time of the current gear in real time, users can accurately read the current parameter values. In frequency setting mode and time setting mode, users can observe the step-by-step changes of the values ​​in real time during the adjustment process, realizing the visualization of the adjustment operation and the precise control of the parameter values, avoiding the vague operation of "not being able to see or touch" the current parameter values.

[0119] The coordinated operation of the indicator lights and the display screen 7 forms a complete information acquisition chain from overview recognition to precise reading. Users can quickly confirm key switching information such as gear position and time mode status through the indicator lights, and accurately read continuous numerical information such as frequency and time through the display screen 7. The two information presentation methods complement each other and jointly build a complete, efficient and intuitive human-machine interface, which significantly improves the user's comprehensive perception of the working status of the impact wrench and the efficiency of parameter adjustment.

[0120] An embodiment of the present invention provides an impact wrench, including a controller and a memory, wherein the controller is used to execute the control method of the impact wrench described above.

[0121] The beneficial effects of the impact wrench in this embodiment compared to the prior art are the same as the control method of the impact wrench described above, and will not be repeated here.

[0122] While the present invention has been disclosed above, its scope of protection is not limited thereto. Those skilled in the art can make various changes and modifications without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention, and all such changes and modifications will fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A control method for an impact wrench, characterized in that, include: It provides at least two preset impact levels, each impact level corresponding to an adjustable impact frequency range, and each impact level has a default impact frequency value and a default impact time. In response to the user's first operation on any impact level, the system enters the frequency setting mode, obtains the impact frequency value set by the user, and stores it as the user-defined impact frequency value for that impact level. In response to a second operation by the user on the same impact level, the time mode is activated. After the time mode is activated, in response to the user's setting operation, the time setting mode is entered to obtain the impact time set by the user and store it as the user-defined impact time for that impact level. When switching to any impact level, the user-defined impact frequency value for that impact level is read. If it is not stored, the default impact frequency value is called, and the impact is performed with the read or called impact frequency value. Determine if time mode is active: If not activated, continue firing until the trigger is released; If the user-defined impact time for that impact level has been activated and stored, it will automatically stop after the user-defined impact time is reached. If a user-defined impact time for that impact level has been activated but not stored, it will automatically stop after the default impact time is reached.

2. The control method for the impact wrench according to claim 1, characterized in that, The impact wrench is equipped with a gear switching button. The first operation includes pressing the gear switching button to switch and select an impact gear. Each time the gear switching button is pressed, the impact gear switches to the next impact gear based on the current impact gear. When the gear switching button is pressed again after switching to the last impact gear, it switches back to the first impact gear.

3. The control method for the impact wrench according to claim 2, characterized in that, The process of obtaining the user-defined impact frequency value includes: In response to the number of times the user presses the trigger after pressing the forward switch, the current impact frequency value is increased by a first preset step size by a certain number of times; In response to the number of times the user presses the trigger after pressing the reverse switch, the current impact frequency value is reduced by a second preset step size.

4. The control method for the impact wrench according to claim 2, characterized in that, The impact wrench is equipped with a frequency adjustment button, and the process of obtaining the user-set impact frequency value includes: In response to the number of times the user presses the frequency adjustment button after pressing the forward rotation switch, the current impact frequency value is increased by a first preset step size by several times. In response to the number of times the user presses the frequency adjustment button after pressing the reverse switch, the current impact frequency value is reduced by a second preset step size.

5. The control method for the impact wrench according to claim 1, characterized in that, The impact wrench is equipped with a time mode button. The second operation is to press the time mode button to activate the time mode. After the time mode is activated, in response to the user's setting operation, it enters the time setting mode to obtain the impact time set by the user.

6. The control method for the impact wrench according to claim 5, characterized in that, In response to the user's setting operation, the system enters a time setting mode to obtain the impact time set by the user. Specifically, it obtains the actual duration for which the user continuously presses the trigger after the time mode is activated, and uses this actual duration as the user-defined impact time.

7. The control method for the impact wrench according to claim 5, characterized in that, The process of responding to a user's setting operation and entering a time setting mode to obtain the user-defined impact time includes: In response to the number of times the user presses the trigger after pressing the forward switch, the current impact time is increased by a third preset step by several times; In response to the number of times the user presses the trigger after pressing the reverse switch, the current impact time is reduced by a fourth preset step.

8. The control method for the impact wrench according to claim 5, characterized in that, The impact wrench is equipped with time increment / decrement buttons. Responding to user input, it enters a time setting mode to obtain the user-defined impact time, including: In response to the number of times the user presses the time increment / decrease button after pressing the forward switch, the current impact time is increased by a third preset step by a certain number of times; In response to the number of times the user presses the time increment / decrease button after pressing the reverse switch, the current impact time is reduced by a fourth preset step size.

9. The control method for the impact wrench according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes the memorization steps: When the impact wrench is turned off, the current impact gear, the user-defined impact frequency value stored in the impact gear, and the user-defined impact time stored in the impact gear are recorded. When the impact wrench is turned on again, it automatically enters the impact gear recorded before shutdown, reads the user-defined impact frequency value stored in the impact gear, and performs the impact; the time mode is inactive by default.

10. The control method for the impact wrench according to claim 1, characterized in that, The impact wrench is equipped with indicator lights and a display screen; The indicator lights include a gear indicator light group for indicating the current impact gear and a mode indicator light for indicating whether the time mode is activated. The gear indicator light group includes several indicator lights that correspond one-to-one with the at least two impact gears. The indicator light corresponding to the currently selected impact gear is lit. The display screen is used to display the impact frequency value and impact time corresponding to the current impact level.

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