Power tool powered by battery pack

Abstract

A method of switching between battery pack groups for supplying power to a power tool, the method comprising: connecting a first battery pack group and a second battery pack group to a battery pack interface; discharging the first group to supply power to the power tool; and determining, using an electronic controller, a first condition of the first group. The method further includes discharging the second group to supply power to the power tool based on the first condition; determining, via the electronic controller, a second condition of the second group; determining, via the electronic controller, whether the first group has reached an end of discharge; and discharging the first group based on the second condition in response to determining that the first group does not reach the end of discharge.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 438,926, filed on January 13, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The embodiments described herein relate to electric power tools. Background Art

[0004] Power tools powered by battery packs can be designed to be worn by users on their backs depending on the usage scenario. This type of power tool usually includes a back-mounted part. The present application relates to how to arrange the battery pack on the back-mounted part to reasonably position the center of gravity of the battery pack so that users can save more effort when wearing the power tool. The present application also relates to how to arrange handles, conduits and other components in the power tool to obtain the desired comfort. Utility Model Content

[0005] Methods described herein include switching between battery groups to supply power to a power tool including an electronic controller. The methods include: connecting a first battery group to a battery interface of the power tool; connecting a second battery group to the battery interface; discharging the first battery group to supply power to the power tool; determining a first condition of the first battery group via the electronic controller; and discharging the second battery group to supply power to the power tool based on the first condition of the first battery group. The methods also include: determining a second condition of the second battery group via the electronic controller; determining via the electronic controller whether the first battery group has reached end of discharge; and in response to determining that the first battery group has not reached end of discharge, discharging the first battery group based on the second condition of the second battery group. The methods also include discharging the second battery group in response to determining that the first battery group has reached end of discharge.

[0006] A battery-powered power tool includes a backpack portion configured to be supported by a user, the backpack portion including: a back plate; a first battery pack interface coupled to the back plate for receiving a first battery; and a second battery pack interface coupled to the back plate for receiving a second battery pack. The second battery pack interface is positioned below the first battery pack interface. The first battery pack interface is angled relative to the second battery pack interface at an angle between 45 degrees and 90 degrees. The battery-powered power tool also includes an arm portion including: a rigid conduit and a flexible conduit, the flexible conduit coupling the rigid conduit to the backpack portion; and a handle having a user input and interface configured to control the operation of the battery-powered power tool.

[0007] Before explaining any embodiment in detail, it should be understood that the embodiments are not limited to the configuration and arrangement details of the components set forth in the following description or shown in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments can be practiced or implemented in various ways. It is also understood that the words and terms used herein are for illustrative purposes and should not be considered restrictive. The use of "including", "comprising" or "having" and variations thereof is intended to cover the items listed thereafter and their equivalents, as well as additional items. Unless otherwise specified or limited, the terms "mount", "connect", "support" and "couple" and variations thereof are used broadly, and these terms cover both direct mounting, connection, support and coupling and indirect mounting, connection, support and coupling.

[0008] In addition, it should be understood that embodiments may include hardware, software, and electronic components or modules, which, for the purpose of discussion, may be shown and described as if most components are implemented only in hardware. However, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize, based on reading this detailed description, that in at least one embodiment, electronic-based aspects may be implemented in software (e.g., stored on a non-transient computer-readable medium) that may be executed by one or more processing units (e.g., microprocessors and / or application-specific integrated circuits ("ASICs")). Thus, it should be noted that embodiments may be implemented using a plurality of hardware- and software-based devices and a plurality of different structural components. For example, the "server," "computing device," "controller," "processor," etc. described in the specification may include one or more processing units, one or more computer-readable medium modules, one or more input / output interfaces, and different connectors (e.g., a system bus) connecting components.

[0009] Relative terms used in conjunction with quantities or conditions, such as "about", "approximately", "substantially", etc., will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art to include the stated value and have the meaning dictated by the context (e.g., the term includes at least the degree of error associated with measurement accuracy, the tolerance associated with a particular value [e.g., manufacturing, assembly, use, etc.], etc.). Such terms should also be considered to disclose a range defined by the absolute values ​​of the two endpoints. For example, the expression "about 2 to about 4" also discloses a range of "2 to 4". Relative terms can refer to plus or minus a percentage of the indicated value (e.g., 1%, 5%, 10%, or more).

[0010] It should be understood that although some drawings show the hardware and software in a particular device, these depictions are for illustrative purposes only. The function described herein as being performed by a component can be performed in a distributed manner by multiple components. Likewise, the function performed by multiple components can be merged and performed by a single component. In some embodiments, the components shown can be combined or divided into separate software, firmware and / or hardware. For example, logic and processing can be distributed between multiple electronic processors, rather than being located in a single electronic processor and performed by it. Regardless of how hardware components and software components are combined or divided, hardware components and software components can be located on the same computing device or can be distributed between different computing devices connected by one or more networks or other suitable communication links. Similarly, components described as performing specific functions can also perform additional functions not described herein. For example, a device or structure "configured" in a certain way is configured at least in this way, but can also be configured in a way that is not explicitly listed.

[0011] Other aspects of these embodiments will become apparent by consideration of the detailed description and accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] Figure 1 A control system for a power tool according to embodiments described herein is presented.

[0013] Figure 2A A method for connecting to a Figure 1 Circuit diagram of the control system of the battery pack.

[0014] Figure 2B A method for connecting to a Figure 1 Circuit diagram of the control system of the battery pack.

[0015] Figure 2C A method for connecting to a Figure 1 Circuit diagram of the control system of the battery pack.

[0016] Figure 3 A chart showing compatible and incompatible battery pack combinations for operation of a power tool according to embodiments described herein.

[0017] Figure 4A A system including a graphical user interface for a power tool and a battery pack combination according to embodiments described herein is presented.

[0018] Figure 4B A system including a graphical user interface for a power tool and a battery pack combination according to embodiments described herein is presented.

[0019] Figure 4C A system including a graphical user interface for a power tool and a battery pack combination according to embodiments described herein is presented.

[0020] Figure 4D A system including a graphical user interface for a power tool and a battery pack combination according to embodiments described herein is presented.

[0021] Figure 4E A system including a graphical user interface for a power tool and a battery pack combination according to embodiments described herein is presented.

[0022] Figure 5 A flow chart of a method for switching between battery pack groups to supply power to a power tool according to embodiments described herein is shown.

[0023] Figure 6 A perspective view of a power tool powered by a battery pack is shown.

[0024] Figure 7 Shown Figure 6 A first perspective view of a backpack portion of a battery pack powered power tool.

[0025] Figure 8 Shown Figure 6 A second perspective view of a backpack portion of a battery pack powered power tool.

[0026] Fig. 9 Shown Figure 6 A side view of a backpack portion of a power tool powered by a battery pack, wherein the battery is mounted to the backpack portion.

[0027] Fig.10 Shown Figure 6 A side view of a backpack portion of a battery pack powered power tool with the battery removed from the backpack portion.

[0028] Fig.11 Shown Figure 6 A third stereoscopic view of a backpack portion of a battery pack powered power tool.

[0029] Fig.12 Shown Figure 6 A cross-sectional perspective view of a backpack portion of a battery pack powered power tool.

[0030] Fig.13 Shown Figure 6 A first side view of a battery pack powered power tool.

[0031] Fig.14 Shown Figure 6 A second side view of a battery pack powered power tool.

[0032] Fig.15 Shown Figure 6 A first perspective view of a handle of a battery pack powered power tool.

[0033] Fig.16 Shown Figure 6 A second perspective view of the handle of a battery pack powered power tool.

[0034] Fig.17 Shown Fig.15 The trigger mechanism of the handle.

[0035] Fig.18 Shown Figure 6 A third perspective view of the handle of a battery pack powered power tool and the graphical user interface located thereon. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0036] Embodiments described herein relate to a method for switching between battery groups to supply power to a power tool. The method for switching between battery groups allows for preventing a drop in power provided by a battery group until each battery pack of the battery group is fully discharged. Continuous switching between battery groups allows each battery pack of the battery group to be gradually discharged.

[0037] Figure 1A control system 100 for a power tool 1000 (e.g., a battery-powered power tool or battery-powered outdoor power equipment) is shown. The control system 100 can be part of a printed circuit board ("PCB") or otherwise connected to a printed circuit board, and can include a controller 101. The controller 101 is electrically connected and / or communicatively connected to various modules or components of the power tool 1000. For example, the controller 101 shown is electrically connected to a motor 105, a battery pack interface 110 (which can be connected to multiple battery packs 210A-D via multiple battery pack sockets or interfaces 1022), a trigger switch 115A (connected to a trigger 115B), one or more sensors or sensing circuits 125, one or more indicators 130, a user input module 135, a power input module 140, and a switch module or field effect transistor ("FET") switch module 150 (e.g., including multiple switch FETs). The controller 101 includes a combination of hardware and software that can be used to, among other things, control the operation of the power tool 1000, monitor the operation of the power tool 1000, control switching between multiple battery packs, monitor the operation of multiple battery packs, activate one or more indicators 130 (e.g., LEDs), etc.

[0038] In some embodiments, each battery pack in the plurality of battery packs includes any number of battery cells. The battery cells may be arranged in series, in parallel, or in a series-parallel combination. In some embodiments, each battery pack in the plurality of battery packs includes a plurality of battery cells (e.g., between 3 and 50 battery cells) connected in series, in parallel, or in a series-parallel combination to produce a battery pack having a desired combination of a nominal battery pack voltage and a battery capacity.

[0039] The battery cells are lithium-based battery cells having a chemistry such as lithium cobalt ("Li-Co"), lithium manganese ("Li-Mn"), or Li-Mn spinel. In some embodiments, the battery cells have other suitable lithium or lithium-based chemistries, such as lithium-based chemistries including manganese, etc. The battery cells within each battery pack of the plurality of battery packs provide operating power (e.g., voltage and current) to the power tool. In some embodiments, the nominal voltage of each battery cell is approximately 3.6V, so that the nominal voltage of the battery pack is approximately 18V. In other embodiments, the battery cells have different nominal voltages, such as between 3.6V and 4.2V, and the battery packs have different nominal voltages, such as 10.8V, 12V, 14.4V, 24V, 28V, 36V, 72V, 80V, 120V, 150V, between 10.8V and 150V, etc. The battery cells also have a capacity, such as between approximately 1.0 ampere-hour ("Ah") and 10.0Ah. In an exemplary embodiment, the battery cells have a capacity of approximately 1.5 Ah, 2.4 Ah, 3.0 Ah, 4.0 Ah, 5.0 Ah, 10.0 Ah, between 1.5 Ah and 10.0 Ah, or the like.

[0040] The controller 101 includes a plurality of electrical and electronic components that provide power, operational control, and protection to the components and modules within the controller 101 and / or the power tool 1000. For example, the controller 101 includes, among other things, a processing unit 155 (e.g., a microprocessor, a microcontroller, an electronic processor, an electronic controller, or another suitable programmable device), a memory 160, an input unit 165, and an output unit 170. The processing unit 155 includes, among other things, a control unit 175, an arithmetic logic unit ("ALU") 180, and a plurality of registers 185 (in Figure 1 101 is shown as a set of registers) and is implemented using a known computer architecture (e.g., a modified Harvard architecture, a von Neumann architecture, etc.). The processing unit 155, the memory 160, the input unit 165, and the output unit 170, as well as the various modules or circuits connected to the controller 101 are connected via one or more control buses and / or data buses (e.g., a common bus 190). For the purpose of illustration, the control and / or data buses are generally Figure 1 In view of the embodiments described herein, it will be known to those skilled in the art to use one or more control buses and / or data buses for interconnection and communication between various modules, circuits and components.

[0041] The memory 160 is a non-transitory computer-readable medium and includes, for example, a program storage area and a data storage area. The program storage area and the data storage area may include a combination of different types of memory, such as ROM, RAM (e.g., DRAM, SDRAM, etc.), EEPROM, flash memory, hard disk, SD card or other suitable magnetic storage device, optical storage device, physical storage device or electronic storage device. The processing unit 155 is connected to the memory 160 and executes software instructions, which can be stored in the RAM of the memory 160 (e.g., during execution), the ROM of the memory 160 (e.g., on a generally permanent basis) or another non-transitory computer-readable medium such as another memory or disk. The software included in the embodiment of the power tool 1000 can be stored in the memory 160 of the controller 101. The software includes, for example, firmware, one or more application programs, program data, filters, rules, one or more program modules and other executable instructions. The controller 101 is configured to obtain from the memory 160 and execute, among other things, instructions related to the control process and method described herein. In other configurations, the controller 101 includes additional components, fewer components or different components.

[0042] The battery pack interface 110 includes a combination of mechanical components (e.g., tracks, grooves, latches, etc.) and electrical components (e.g., one or more terminals) that are configured and operable to interface (e.g., mechanically, electrically, and communicatively) the power tool 1000 with one or more battery packs (e.g., multiple battery packs). For example, the power provided to the power tool 1000 by each of the multiple battery packs is provided to the power input module 140 and / or the switch module 150 via the battery pack interface 110. The power input module 140 includes a combination of active and passive components that are used to regulate or control the power received from each of the multiple battery packs before providing the power to the controller 101. The battery pack interface 110 also provides power to the FET switch module 150 that is switched by the switch FET to selectively provide power to the motor 105. The battery pack interface 110 also includes, for example, a communication line 195 that is used to provide a communication line or link between the controller 101 and each of the multiple battery packs.

[0043] The indicator 130 includes, for example, one or more light emitting diodes ("LEDs"). The indicator 130 can be configured to display the condition of the power tool 1000 or information associated with the power tool. For example, the indicator 130 is configured to indicate the measured electrical characteristics of the power tool 1000 and / or multiple battery packs, the status of multiple battery packs, etc. In some embodiments, the indicator 130 is located on a user interface (e.g., a graphical user interface) of the power tool 1000. The user input module 135 is operably connected to the controller 101 to, for example, select a forward operating mode or a reverse operating mode, a torque and / or speed setting of the power tool 1000, etc. (e.g., using a torque and / or speed switch). In some embodiments, the user input module 135 includes a combination of digital and analog input or output devices required to achieve the desired operating level of the power tool 1000, such as one or more knobs, one or more dials, one or more switches, one or more buttons, etc.

[0044] The controller 101 is configured to determine the condition of each battery pack in the plurality of battery packs and generate one or more control signals related to the condition. For example, the sensor 125 includes one or more current sensors, one or more voltage sensors, one or more temperature sensors, one or more timers, etc. For example, the temperature of each battery pack in the plurality of battery packs can be determined or calculated using a plurality of temperature sensors that sense the temperature of each battery pack in the plurality of battery packs. The controller 101 calculates or includes in the memory 160 predetermined operating thresholds and limits for the operation of the plurality of battery packs. For example, when a potential thermal failure (e.g., a thermal failure of one of the plurality of battery packs) is detected or predicted by the controller 101, the power received from the plurality of battery packs can be limited or interrupted until the possibility of thermal failure is reduced. If the controller 101 detects one or more such conditions of the plurality of battery packs, or determines that the condition of the plurality of battery packs no longer exists, the controller 101 is configured to provide information and / or control signals to another component of the plurality of battery packs (e.g., a battery pack interface 110, an indicator 130, etc.).

[0045] Figure 2AA schematic diagram of a circuit 200A according to some embodiments is shown. The circuit 200A includes a first battery group 205A and a second battery group 205B. In the embodiment shown, the second battery group 205B is electrically connected in parallel with the first battery group 205A. In other embodiments, the second battery group 205B is electrically connected in series or in series-parallel with the first battery group 205A. The first battery group 205A includes a first battery group 210A and a second battery group 210B. In the embodiment shown, the first battery group 210A is electrically connected in series with the second battery group 210B. In other embodiments, the first battery group 210A is electrically connected in parallel or in series-parallel with the second battery group 210B. The second battery group 205B includes a third battery group 210C and a fourth battery group 210D. In the embodiment shown, the third battery group 210C is electrically connected in series with the fourth battery group 210D. In other embodiments, the third battery pack 210C is electrically connected in parallel or in series-parallel with the fourth battery pack 210D. In some embodiments, the first battery pack 210A, the second battery pack 210B, the third battery pack 210C, and the fourth battery pack 210D form a 2-series 2-parallel ("2S2P") configuration. In other embodiments, the first battery pack group 205A is connected in parallel with the second battery pack group 205B, but the two groups are only electrically connected at the most positive and most negative voltage nodes (e.g., there is no intermediate connection between the battery pack groups).

[0046] Each battery pack 210A-210D is electrically connected in series with a diode in a plurality of diodes 215A-215D. In the example shown, a first diode 215A is electrically connected in series with a first battery pack 210A, a second diode 215B is electrically connected in series with a second battery pack 210B, a third diode 215C is electrically connected in series with a third battery pack 210C, and a fourth diode 215D is electrically connected in series with a fourth battery pack 210D. By including each diode 215A-215D in series with each battery pack 210A-210D, the circuit 200A prevents current from flowing back from each battery pack 210A-210D. As a benefit of the construction of the circuit 200A, no additional firmware is required to sequentially discharge each battery pack 210A-210D because each diode 215A-215D is in a "conducting" state at the same time. The first battery pack group 205A and the second battery pack group 205B are also connected to a load 220 (shown as a resistive load). In some embodiments, when the power tool 1000 receives operating power from the first battery pack group 205A or the second battery pack group 205B, the load 220 represents a mechanical and / or electrical connection to the battery pack interface 110. Additionally, components of the circuit 200A are electrically connected to a local ground 225 of the power tool 1000.

[0047] Figure 2B200B according to some embodiments. In the illustrated embodiment, for simplicity, circuit 200B includes components similar to those of circuit 200A, as described above with reference to FIG. Figure 2A In some embodiments, the circuit 200B includes a FET in a plurality of FETs 230A-230D electrically connected in series with each of the plurality of diodes 215A-215D. For example, the first FET 230A is connected in series between the first battery pack 210A and the first diode 215A, the second FET 230B is connected in series between the second battery pack 210B and the second diode 215B, the third FET 230C is connected in series between the third battery pack 210C and the third diode 215C, and the fourth FET 230D is connected in series between the fourth battery pack 210D and the fourth diode 215D. By including each FET 230A-230D connected in series with each diode 215A-215D, the circuit 200B controls the current supplied by each battery pack 210A-210D through each diode 215A-215D, respectively. For example, if the controller 101 determines that the temperature of the first battery pack 210A is too high based on one or more signals received from the sensor 125, the controller 101 generates a control signal and transmits the control signal to the circuit 200B to close the first FET 230A, thereby limiting the current supplied through the first diode 215A. In some embodiments, the circuit 200B includes one or more thermistors connected to or associated with each diode 215A-215D. The controller 101 determines when to open or close each FET 230A-230D based on one or more signals received from the one or more thermistors.

[0048] Figure 2C 200C according to some embodiments. In the illustrated embodiment, for simplicity, circuit 200C includes components similar to those of circuit 200B, as described above with reference to FIG. Figure 2BIn some embodiments, the circuit 200C does not include each diode 215A-215D. In such an embodiment, the circuit 200C may include a secondary FET in a plurality of secondary FETs 235A-235D electrically connected in series with each of the plurality of FETs 230A-230D. For example, the first secondary FET 235A is connected in series between the first battery pack 210A and the first FET 230A, the second secondary FET 235B is connected in series between the second battery pack 210B and the second FET 230B, the third secondary FET 235C is connected in series between the third battery pack 210C and the third FET 230C, and the fourth secondary FET 235D is connected in series between the fourth battery pack 210D and the fourth FET 230D. By including each secondary FET 235A-235D connected in series with each battery pack 210A-210D, the circuit 200C reduces leakage current and current loss. In some embodiments, each secondary FET 235A-235D has an inverted orientation compared to each FET 230A-230D, respectively. Thus, each secondary FET 235A-235D forms an inverted pair with each FET 230A-230D counterpart. The inverted pair of each secondary FET 235A-235D and each FET 230A-230D allows the circuit 200C to control the discharge of each battery pack 210A-210D, respectively.

[0049] Figure 3A diagram 300 of compatible and incompatible battery pack combinations for operation of a power tool 1000 according to some embodiments is shown. In some embodiments, the diagram 300 shows battery pack combinations connected to circuits 200A, 200B, 200C. The diagram 300 includes a first battery pack group 205A (e.g., battery pack compartment 1), a second battery pack group 205B (e.g., battery pack compartment 2), a first battery pack 210A, a second battery pack 210B, a third battery pack 210C, and a fourth battery pack 210D. In the illustrated embodiment, each battery pack 210A-210D fills a terminal point within the first battery pack group 205A or the second battery pack group 205B (e.g., each battery pack 210A-210D is connected to a terminal of the battery pack interface 110). The diagram 300 includes a keyword 305. The keyword 305 shows the color matching of each terminal point. For example, if the terminal point is green, the terminal point is filled by a battery pack (e.g., a battery pack is connected to a terminal of the battery pack interface 110). In another example, if the terminal point is red, the terminal point is not filled by a battery pack (e.g., a battery pack is not connected to a terminal of the battery pack interface 110). In some embodiments, if only one battery pack fills the terminal point, the power tool 1000 does not perform any operation. For example, when two, three, or four battery packs fill the corresponding number of terminal points, the power tool 1000 performs an operation.

[0050] If three battery packs fill three terminal points (e.g., the first battery pack 210A, the second battery pack 210B, and the third battery pack 210C are connected to the battery pack interface 110), the power tool 1000 will only utilize the first battery pack group 205A (e.g., the first battery pack 210A and the second battery pack 210B). In some embodiments, if two battery packs fill two terminal points, the power tool 1000 performs an operation if the two battery packs fill terminal points of the same battery pack group (e.g., the first battery pack 210A and the second battery pack 210B). In some embodiments, if four battery packs fill four terminal points (e.g., all terminal points are filled), the controller 101 switches between the first battery pack group 205A and the second battery pack group 205B to supply power to the power tool 1000. In some embodiments, the controller 101 determines the state of charge (“SOC”) of the first battery pack group 205A and the SOC of the second battery pack group 205B based on one or more signals received from the sensor 125. In some embodiments, the controller 101 switches between battery groups based on the SOC of the battery groups. For example, if the SOC of the first battery group 205A drops below a SOC threshold, the controller 101 switches to the second battery group 205B to supply power to the power tool 1000. In some embodiments, the switching between the first battery group 205A and the second battery group 205B is based on elapsed time.

[0051] Figure 4AA system 400A including a graphical user interface ("GUI") 405A and a battery pack combination of a power tool 1000 according to some embodiments is shown. In some embodiments, the GUI 405A is any type of suitable user interface or display. In some embodiments, the GUI 405A is disposed on the handle 1236 of the power tool 1000 for display to a user. The GUI 405A includes a first battery group indicator 410A and a second battery group indicator 410B. In some embodiments, the first battery group indicator 410A and the second battery group indicator 410B include components similar to one or more indicators 130. In some embodiments, the controller 101 determines whether the first battery group 205A is connected to the battery pack interface 110. In response to determining that the first battery group 205A is connected to the battery pack interface, the first battery group indicator 410A displays the SOC of the first battery group 205A. In some embodiments, the first battery group indicator 410A illuminates when the controller 101 selects the first battery group 205A to release power to the power tool 1000. In some embodiments, the first battery group indicator 410A lights up a color LED or a white LED. In some embodiments, the controller 101 determines whether the second battery group 205B is connected to the battery pack interface 110. In response to determining that the second battery group 205B is connected to the battery pack interface, the second battery group indicator 410B displays the SOC of the second battery group 205B. In some embodiments, when the controller 101 selects the second battery group 205B to release power to the power tool 1000, the second battery group indicator 410B lights up. In some embodiments, the second battery group indicator 410B lights up a color LED or a white LED.

[0052] In some embodiments, the GUI 405A also includes a first battery group gauge 415A and a second battery group gauge 415B for indicating the SOC of each battery group. In the illustrated embodiment, the first battery group gauge 415A and the second battery group gauge 415B each include four indicators 130. In some embodiments, the controller 101 determines the SOC of the first battery group 205A and the SOC of the second battery group 205B based on the remaining battery capacity of each of the plurality of battery groups 210A-210D. In some embodiments, the first battery group gauge 415A provides an indication of the SOC of the first battery group 205A. In such an embodiment, the indication of the SOC of the first battery group 205A is the lowest SOC battery group between the first battery group 210A (illustrated as the first battery group gauge 420A) and the second battery group 210B (illustrated as the second battery group gauge 420B). In some embodiments, the second battery group gauge 415B provides an indication of the SOC of the second battery group 205B. In such an embodiment, the indication of the SOC of the second battery group 205B is the lowest SOC battery between the third battery 210C (shown as the third battery fuel gauge 420C) and the fourth battery 210D (shown as the second battery fuel gauge 420D).

[0053] Figure 4B A system 400B including a GUI 405B and a battery pack combination of a power tool 1000 according to some embodiments is shown. In some embodiments, the GUI 405B is any type of suitable user interface or display. In some embodiments, the GUI 405B is provided on the handle 1236 of the power tool 1000 for display to the user. The GUI 405B includes a battery connection indicator 425. In some embodiments, the battery connection indicator 425 includes four of the indicators 130, each indicator 130 corresponding to a corresponding battery pack 210A-210D. When each battery pack 210A-210D is connected to the battery pack interface 110, the battery connection indicator 425 provides an indication. For example, if the first battery pack 210A and the second battery pack 210B are connected to the battery pack interface 110, the indicator corresponding to the battery connection indicator 425 of the first battery pack 210A and the indicator corresponding to the battery connection indicator 425 of the second battery pack 210B light up an LED (e.g., a green LED).

[0054] In some embodiments, the GUI 405B includes a total battery gauge 430. In the illustrated embodiment, the total battery gauge 430 includes four indicators 130. In some embodiments, the total battery gauge 430 provides an indication of the total SOC (e.g., a combination of the SOC) of the first battery group 205A and the second battery group 205B. In such embodiments, the indication of the total SOC includes an indication of the lowest SOC battery group between the first battery group 210A (illustrated as the first battery group gauge 420A) and the second battery group 210B (illustrated as the second battery group gauge 420B), and an indication of the lowest SOC battery group between the third battery group 210C (illustrated as the third battery group gauge 420C) and the fourth battery group 210D (illustrated as the second battery group gauge 420D). In some embodiments, when only two battery groups (e.g., the first battery group 210A and the second battery group 210B) are attached to the power tool 1000, the gauge 430 indicates the lowest SOC between the first battery group 210A and the second battery group 210B. However, if more than two battery packs are attached to the power tool 1000, the total capacity or average capacity can be indicated using the fuel gauge 430. For example, the first battery pack 210A has a capacity of 100%, the second battery pack 210B has a capacity of 50%, the third battery pack 210C has a capacity of 50%, and the fourth battery pack 210D has a capacity of 100%. The total capacity then corresponds to 75% (e.g., three bars are illuminated). In some embodiments, the total number of LED segments can be used to indicate the state of charge percentage. For example, based on a four LED fuel gauge for each battery pack, the number of LED segments for the lowest SOC battery pack in the first battery pack group 205A is added to the number of LED segments for the lowest SOC battery pack in the second battery pack group 205B. The sum of the LED segments is then divided by 8 to determine the SOC percentage. For example, if the two lowest SOC battery packs in each battery pack group include three LED segments, the SOC percentage will be 75% and three LED segments in the fuel gauge 430 will be illuminated.

[0055] Figure 4C A system 400C including a GUI 405C and a battery pack combination of a power tool 1000 is shown according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, the GUI 405C is any type of suitable user interface or display. In some embodiments, the GUI 405C is disposed on the handle 1236 of the power tool 1000 for display to a user. The GUI 405C includes a battery connection indicator 435 and a total battery charge gauge 430. The battery connection indicator 435 performs the same as the reference Figure 4BAdditionally, when the electronic controller 101 determines that a battery pack among the plurality of battery packs 210A-210D is not connected to the battery pack interface 110 (e.g., shown as the fourth battery pack 210D), the battery connection indicator 435 provides an indication through an indicator corresponding to the fourth battery pack 210D in a different color (e.g., a red LED) than the indicator corresponding to each battery pack 210A-210C.

[0056] Figure 4D A system 400D including a GUI 405D and a battery pack combination of a power tool 1000 is shown according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, the GUI 405D is any type of suitable user interface or display. In some embodiments, the GUI 405D is disposed on the handle 1236 of the power tool 1000 for display to a user. The GUI 405D includes a battery connection indicator 440 and a total battery charge gauge 430. The battery connection indicator 440 performs the same as the reference FIG. 4B to FIG. 4C The battery connection indicators 425, 435 of the electronic controller 101 have similar functions. Additionally, when the electronic controller 101 determines that a battery pack among the multiple battery packs 210A-210D is connected to the battery pack interface, the battery connection indicator 440 provides an indication of the connected battery pack. For example, if the first battery pack 210A and the second battery pack 210B are connected to the battery pack interface 110, the indicator of the battery connection indicator 440 corresponding to the first battery pack 210A and the indicator of the battery connection indicator 440 corresponding to the second battery pack 210B light up the white LED. In some embodiments, the total battery fuel gauge 430 provides an indication of the total SOC only when the trigger 115B is pulled. In other embodiments, when a depleted battery pack is connected to the battery pack interface 110, the total battery fuel gauge 430 provides an indication of a reduction in the total SOC.

[0057] Figure 4EA system 400E including a GUI 405E and a battery pack combination of a power tool 1000 according to some embodiments is shown. In some embodiments, the GUI 405E is any type of suitable user interface or display. In some embodiments, the GUI 405E is provided on the handle 1236 of the power tool 1000 for display to the user. In the illustrated embodiment, the GUI 405E includes a total battery fuel gauge 430. In some embodiments, the total battery fuel gauge 430 provides an indication of the total SOC, including an indication of the lowest SOC battery pack between the first battery pack 210A (shown as the first battery pack fuel gauge 420A) and the second battery pack 210B (shown as the second battery pack fuel gauge 420B), and an indication of the lowest SOC battery pack between the third battery pack 210C (shown as the third battery pack fuel gauge 420C) and the fourth battery pack 210D (shown as the second battery pack fuel gauge 420D). In some embodiments, when only two battery packs (e.g., a first battery pack 210A and a second battery pack 210B) are attached to the power tool 1000, the fuel gauge 430 indicates the lowest SOC between the first battery pack 210A and the second battery pack 210B. However, if more than two battery packs are attached to the power tool 1000, the total capacity or average capacity can be indicated using the fuel gauge 430. For example, the first battery pack 210A has a capacity of 100%, the second battery pack 210B has a capacity of 50%, the third battery pack 210C has a capacity of 50%, and the fourth battery pack 210D has a capacity of 100%. The total capacity then corresponds to 75% (e.g., three bars are illuminated). In some embodiments, the total number of LED segments can be used to indicate the state of charge percentage. For example, based on four LED fuel gauges for each battery pack, the number of LED segments for the lowest SOC battery pack in the first battery pack group 205A is added to the number of LED segments for the lowest SOC battery pack in the second battery pack group 205B. The sum of the LED segments is then divided by 8 to determine the SOC percentage. For example, if the two lowest SOC battery packs in each battery pack group include three LED segments, the SOC percentage will be 75% and three LED segments in the fuel gauge 430 will be illuminated.

[0058] Figure 5A flow chart of a method 500 for switching between battery groups to supply power to a power tool 1000 is shown. The method 500 begins by connecting a first battery group 205A to a battery interface 110 (block 505). The method 500 includes connecting a second battery group 205B to the battery interface 110 (block 510). The method 500 also includes discharging the first battery group 205A (block 515). The method 500 also includes the controller 101 determining a first condition (e.g., a predetermined time that has passed, a voltage state, an over-temperature condition, etc.) of the first battery group 205A while discharging (block 520). The method 500 also includes discharging the second battery group 205B based on the determination of the first condition (block 525). For example, when the controller 101 determines the first condition, the controller 101 generates and transmits a switch control signal that stops discharging the first battery group 205A and starts discharging the second battery group 205B. In some embodiments, the controller 101 switches the discharge between the first battery group 205A and the second battery group 205B at a predetermined time period. For example, the predetermined time period is in the range of every 5 seconds to 30 seconds. In some examples, the predetermined time period is less than 5 seconds or greater than 30 seconds. In some embodiments, the predetermined time period is 100 milliseconds or less. In some embodiments, the controller 101 switches the discharge between the first battery group 205A and the second battery group 205B at a drop point (e.g., when the SOC of the first battery group 205A or the SOC of the second battery group 205B reaches a low voltage SOC threshold or a low voltage cutoff value). In some embodiments, after the first battery group 205A is fully discharged or has otherwise reached the end of discharge (e.g., 0%-20% SOC), the controller 101 switches the discharge between the first battery group 205A and the second battery group 205B. The method 500 also includes: the controller 101 determines a second condition of the second battery group 205B while discharging (e.g., a predetermined time that has passed, a voltage state, an over-temperature condition, etc.) (block 530). The method 500 also includes determining whether the first battery group 205A has reached the end of discharge (e.g., whether the SOC of the first battery group 205A is below the SOC threshold) (block 535). If it is not determined that the first battery group 205A has reached the end of discharge, the method 500 returns to continue discharging the first battery group 205A based on the determination of the second condition. If it is determined that the first battery group 205A has reached the end of discharge, the method 500 further includes continuing to discharge the second battery group 205B (block 540).

[0059] Figures 6 to 18A battery-powered power tool 1000 is shown. As shown, the power tool 1000 is implemented as a blower, but in other embodiments, it can be another battery-powered power tool (e.g., outdoor power equipment for lawn maintenance, snow or other weather maintenance, spraying, conditioning, etc.). The power tool 1000 includes a backpack portion 1010 worn by an operator, and an arm portion 1014 connected to the backpack portion 1010. The backpack portion 1010 includes a back plate 1018, a plurality of battery sockets 1022, and a blower 1026. The arm portion 1014 includes a flexible conduit 1208 and a rigid conduit 1212, and a handle 1236, which is mounted on the rigid conduit 1212 for controlling the operation of the power tool 1000.

[0060] refer to Figures 6 to 12 , the backpack portion 1010 is sized to be worn and supported by a user / operator (i.e., a person). In the illustrated embodiment, the backpack portion 1010 is supported on the back of the user, with the back plate 1018 resting against the back of the user. In other embodiments, the backpack portion 1010 can be supported on the user in other ways (e.g., worn on the front / chest of the user). A strap (such as a shoulder strap and / or a waist belt) is coupled to the back plate 1018 for securing the back plate 1018 to the user.

[0061] The back plate 1018 is a thin-walled plate having a thickness that is substantially less than the width or height of the back plate 1018. The thickness of the back plate 1018 is at the first surface 1042 ( Figure 8 ) and a second surface 1046 ( Figure 7 ). The height of the back panel 1018 generally corresponds to the distance between the user's shoulders and lower back or waist. The width of the back panel 1018 generally corresponds to the width of the user's torso. Figure 8 As shown, the first surface 1042 has a thin-walled diamond pattern for increased strength and reduced weight. The battery receptacle 1022 is located at a second surface 1046 opposite the first surface 1042. The handles 1030 for carrying the backpack portion 1010 are mounted to the back plate 1018 on opposite sides of the lateral sides and are each connected to the back plate at two different vertically spaced points along the height of the back plate 1018.

[0062] like Fig.11 As shown, the plurality of battery sockets 1022 include four sockets 1022, but in other embodiments, more (e.g., five, six, seven, eight) or fewer (e.g., two, three) battery sockets 1022 may be utilized. Each battery socket 1022 is configured to receive a single battery pack 210A-D, so that the power tool 1000 is configured to receive four battery packs 210A-D at the same time (e.g., Figure 7 1000 ). Each socket 1022 includes a mechanical interface 1050 for mechanically receiving the battery pack interface 110 of the corresponding battery pack 210A-D and an electrical interface 1054 for electrically receiving the battery pack interface 110 of the corresponding battery pack 210A-D. Each mechanical interface physically couples the battery pack 210A-D to the backpack portion 1010. As shown, the mechanical interface 1050 is implemented as a track that engages with a mating track of the battery pack 120A-D, although other mechanical interfaces may also be utilized. In some embodiments, the mechanical interface 1050 includes a lock or latch so that the battery pack 210A-D is mechanically fixed to the backpack portion 1010 until the user presses one or more inputs (e.g., button 1058) to disengage the latch and allow the corresponding battery 210A-D to be removed. The electrical interface 1054 includes terminals that engage the terminals of the corresponding battery pack 210A-D to electrically couple the battery 210A-D to the power tool 1000.

[0063] refer to Figure 7 , the battery sockets 1022 are arranged in pairs, wherein the first (upper) pair of battery sockets 1022A are positioned adjacent to each other in the lateral direction, and the second (lower) pair of battery sockets 1022B are positioned adjacent to each other in the lateral direction at a height below the first pair of battery sockets 1022A. These pairs of battery sockets 1022A, 1022B are generally aligned with each other, wherein the first pair of sockets 1022A are positioned at a vertical position above the second pair of sockets, thereby forming a rectangular array of four battery sockets 1022.

[0064] refer to Figures 9 and 10, the first pair of battery receptacles 1022A (e.g., the mechanical interface 1050 and the electrical interface 1054 of the first pair of battery receptacles 1022A) are arranged at a certain angle relative to the second pair of battery receptacles 1022B (e.g., the mechanical interface 1050 and the electrical interface 1054 of the second pair of battery receptacles 1022B). In other words, the battery packs 210A, 210B installed in the first pair of battery receptacles 1022A are angled relative to the battery packs 210C, 210D installed in the second pair of battery receptacles 1022B. The second pair of battery receptacles 1022B receive the respective batteries 210C, 210D in a substantially horizontal position, such that the base or bottom surface of the batteries 210C, 210D is perpendicular to the height of the back plate 1018 and is generally parallel to the ground surface when the backpack portion 1010 is worn by the user. The first pair of battery sockets 1022A are angled relative to the second pair of battery sockets 1022B at an angle θ of approximately 80 degrees (e.g., 75-85 degrees, 70-90 degrees, 45-90 degrees, less than 90 degrees). This arrangement positions the center of gravity of the first (upper) pair of batteries 210A, 210B closer to the user's back, thereby reducing the moment of force generated by the weight of the upper batteries 210A, 210B on the user.

[0065] Continue to refer Fig. 9 and Fig.10 , connecting the battery pack interface 110 of the battery 210A, 210B to the mechanical interface 1050 and the electrical interface 1054 of the first pair of sockets 1022A includes placing the battery downward and rightward along the mechanical interface 1050 (along Fig. 9 and Fig.10 Slide the battery pack interface 110 of the battery 210C, 210D with the mechanical interface 1050 and the electrical interface 1054 of the second pair of sockets 1022B by sliding the battery along the mechanical interface 1050 only to the right (along the Fig. 9 and Fig.10 The arrow 1070 in the stereogram slides.

[0066] The battery receptacle 1022 is formed by an L-shaped protrusion 1074 extending rearwardly from the second surface 1046 of the back plate 1018. The mechanical interface 1050 and the electrical interface 1054 for receiving the first pair of batteries 210A, 210B are formed in the upper (substantially vertical) leg of the L-shaped protrusion 1074, and the mechanical interface 1050 and the electrical interface 1054 for receiving the second pair of batteries 210C, 210D are formed in the lower (substantially horizontal) leg of the L-shaped protrusion 1074.

[0067] The batteries 210A-D are configured to function as a power source for the blower 1026. The blower 1026 is installed below the battery socket 1022 (in the height direction), and includes an inlet 1082 through which air is sucked, an outlet 1086 through which air is discharged, and an air mover 1090 positioned between the inlet 1082 and the outlet 1086 for sucking air through the inlet 1082 and discharging the air from the inlet 1082 through the outlet 1086. Fig.12 As shown, the inlet 1082 includes a grill 1114 to prevent large debris from being drawn into the inlet 1082. The outlet 1086 is coupled to the arm portion 1014 to direct airflow from the inlet 1082, through the outlet 1086, and to the arm portion 1014.

[0068] Continue to refer Fig.12 , the blower 1026 includes a tubular body 1094 extending between an inlet 1082 and an outlet 1086. In the illustrated embodiment, the body 1094 is generally J-shaped with a smooth bend therein so that the central axis of the outlet 1086 is arranged at a certain angle (e.g., 70-110 degrees, 80-100 degrees, 85-95 degrees, approximately vertical) relative to the central axis of the inlet. The air mover 1090 is positioned within the body 1094 and, in this embodiment, includes an impeller 1098 driven by the motor 105. The impeller 1098 includes a plurality of blades 1106 extending radially outward from a central hub 1110. Each blade 1106 is defined by a curved plane extending radially outward and axially along the hub 1110. The impeller 1098 rotates around an axis of rotation. In the illustrated embodiment, the axis of rotation of the impeller 1098 is colinear with the central axis of the inlet 1082. The motor 105 includes an output shaft that rotates the impeller, the output shaft having a rotation axis that is colinear with the rotation axis of the impeller. In other embodiments, the motor 105 can be coupled to the impeller 1098 via a gear train so that the rotation axis of the motor 105 and the rotation axis of the impeller 1098 are offset from each other. The airflow is drawn in by the motor-driven impeller 1098 through the inlet 1082, through the outlet 1086, and to the arm portion 1014, so that the user can direct the airflow by manipulating the position and orientation of the arm portion 1014.

[0069] refer to Figure 6 , Fig.13 and Fig.14 , the arm portion 1014 is a hollow tube extending between an inlet 1200 at a first end and an outlet 1204 at a second end opposite the first end. The arm portion 1014 is coupled to the backpack portion 1010 such that the inlet 1200 of the arm portion 1014 is coupled to the outlet 1086 of the backpack portion 1010 to receive the airflow generated by the air mover 1090.

[0070] The arm portion 1014 includes a flexible conduit 1208 and a rigid conduit 1212. The flexible conduit 1208 defines an inlet 1200 and extends from the inlet 1200 to the rigid conduit 1212. The rigid conduit 1212 defines an outlet 1204 and extends from the outlet 1204 toward the inlet 1200 and to the flexible conduit 1208. The flexible conduit 1208 allows the rigid conduit 1212 to move relative to the piggyback portion 1010 so that the outlet 1204 of the arm portion 1014 can be directed in different directions by the user. As shown, the flexible conduit 1208 is a corrugated tube (e.g., a corrugated plastic tube) to allow flexure and deviation from a linear path.

[0071] The flexible duct 1208 is coupled to the body 1094 of the blower 1026 via a clamp 1216 (e.g., a worm gear clamp). Further, the flexible duct 1208 is coupled to the rigid duct 1212 by a similar clamp 1220. In some embodiments, the clamps 1216, 1220 not only secure the flexible duct 1208 to the blower 1026 and the rigid duct 1212, respectively, but also provide a seal between the respective components to limit airflow losses between the air mover 1090 and the outlet 1204 of the arm portion 1014. In other embodiments, the seal is provided by a separate component (e.g., a foam or rubber seal / gasket).

[0072] The rigid conduit 1212 includes a first portion 1224 adjacent to the flexible conduit 1208, and a second portion 1228 extending between the first portion 1224 and the outlet 1204. The first portion 1220 includes a handle holding mechanism 1232 extending axially along the radially opposite sides of the first portion 1224 for fixing a handle 1236 at different positions along the axial length of the first portion 1224. Different users of different heights and different arm lengths can find a preferred position for the handle 1236 along the handle holding mechanism 1232 to obtain a desired comfort. As shown, the handle holding mechanism 1232 includes discrete positions formed by a plurality of evenly spaced and axially offset protrusions around which the handle 1236 can be tightened or clamped. When the handle 1224 is tightened, the protrusions prevent the handle 1236 from moving axially relative to the first portion 1224 (and optionally prevent the handle 1236 from rotating). In some embodiments, the diameter of the second portion 1228 may be smaller than the diameter of the first portion 1224 so that the velocity of the airflow increases as it approaches the outlet 1204 .

[0073] The handle 1236 is mounted to the rigid conduit 1212 and is Figures 15 to 1812. The handle 1236 includes a mounting member 1240, a grip 1244, and a user input and interface 1248. The mounting member 1240 is generally cylindrical and defines a central opening 1252 that surrounds the first portion 1224 of the rigid conduit 1212. The central opening 1252 is offset from the cylindrical opening (e.g., protrusion, recess) that engages the handle retaining mechanism 1232. In some embodiments, the mounting member 1240 includes a latch 1256 that is movable between an open position and a closed position. In the closed position, the latch 1256 locks the axial and rotational position of the handle 1236 relative to the rigid conduit 1212. In the open position, the latch 1256 allows the handle 1236 to move axially along the rigid conduit 1212. In some embodiments, when the latch 1256 is in the open position, the handle 1236 can rotate relative to the rigid conduit 1212. In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting member 1240 is not seamless, but is peripherally openable by moving the latch 1256 between open and closed positions. The mounting member is openable so that the diameter of the central opening 1252 is larger in the open position than in the closed position to allow the handle 1236 to move axially along the catheter 1212 in the open position and engage the catheter 1212 in the closed position.

[0074] A grip 1244 extends upwardly from the mount 1240 and is defined by an ergonomic grip portion around which a user places their hand to engage the handle 1236. A user input and interface 1248 is coupled to the distal end of the grip 1244 so that the user's hand engages the handle 1236 at the grip 1244 between the mount 1240 and the user input and interface 1248.

[0075] like Figure 17 to Figure 18 As shown, the user input and interface 1248 includes trigger 115B (previously Figure 1 ), the powered hold actuator 1260, and the graphical user interface 405A (previously described with respect to Figure 4B The trigger 115B is rotatable about the rotation axis 1264 between a disengaged position and a fully engaged position. Fig.171014. The embodiment shown in FIG. 1014 shows a disengaged position, wherein the trigger 115B is positioned outward (forward). In the illustrated embodiment, the trigger 115B is biased to the disengaged position so that when the trigger 115B is not actuated by the user, it rests in the disengaged position. In the disengaged position, the trigger switch 115A is not engaged, so that the air mover 1090 does not generate airflow. By pressing the trigger 115B (moving the trigger toward the grip 1244), the trigger 115B can be moved from the disengaged position toward the fully engaged position. In the fully engaged position, the trigger 115B engages the trigger switch 115A, so that the air mover 1090 generates airflow. The trigger 115B engages the trigger switch 115A at a position between the disengaged position and the fully engaged position, so that the rotation rate of the air mover 1090 and the airflow rate obtained by the arm portion 1014 increase from the disengaged position to the maximum rate at the fully engaged position. The rotation rate of the air mover 1090 can be proportional to the displacement of the trigger from the disengaged position.

[0076] As shown, the trigger 115B includes a user engagement surface 1268 positioned below the rotation axis 1264. A rotation stop 1276 is coupled to the trigger 115B (e.g., formed integrally therewith) and engages the housing of the grip 1244A to prevent rotation beyond a disengaged position (away from a fully engaged position). A cam surface or trigger switch engagement surface 1272 is coupled to the trigger 115B (e.g., formed integrally therewith) and is positioned above the rotation axis 1264 such that the trigger 115B is rotated in a counterclockwise direction (from Fig.17 Rotation on the trigger switch 115A (from an angle) moves the user engagement surface to the right while moving the trigger switch engagement surface 1272 to the left to engage with the trigger switch 115A.

[0077] The power hold actuator 1260 is mounted to one side of the grip 1244 and is rotatable about a rotation axis 1280 that is parallel to and offset from the rotation axis 1264 of the trigger 115B. The power hold actuator 1260 includes a locking cam 1292 that selectively engages a rear surface 1284 of the trigger 115B (the rear surface 1284 is positioned opposite to the user engagement surface 1268 of the trigger 115B) to prevent the trigger 115B from moving. The power hold actuator 1260 also includes a user input 1288 (e.g., a lever, a switch, a rotating handle) for rotating the locking cam 1292 between a locked position and an unlocked position. In the unlocked position, the locking cam 1292 does not restrict the movement of the trigger 115B. In the locked position, the locking cam 1292 engages the rear surface 1284 of the trigger 115B to maintain the current position of the trigger 115B. If the power hold actuator 1260 is in the locked position when the trigger 115B is in the disengaged position, the trigger 115B is locked in the disengaged position and cannot be actuated. If the power hold actuator 1260 is in the locked position when the trigger 115B is in the fully engaged position, the trigger 115B is locked in the fully engaged position, and the air mover 1090 maintains the rotation rate associated with the fully engaged position, even when the user removes the finger from the trigger 115B. If the power hold actuator 1260 is in the locked position when the trigger 115B is in the intermediate position (similar to the fully engaged position), the trigger 115B is locked in the current position, and the air mover 1090 maintains the rotation rate associated with the position of the trigger 115B, even when the user removes the finger from the trigger 115B. The locking position of the locking cam 1292 can be different depending on the rotational position of the trigger 115B, and is defined as such a position in which the locking cam 1292 holds the trigger in its current position.

[0078] Fig.184 shows a graphical user interface (GUI) 405A. In some embodiments, the GUI 405A includes a first set of indicators 1300 (e.g., lights, such as light emitting diodes) associated with the first pair of batteries 210A, 210B, a second set of indicators 1304 (e.g., lights, such as light emitting diodes) associated with the second pair of batteries 210C, 210D, and a third set of indicators 1308 (e.g., lights, such as light emitting diodes) associated with a mode selection input 1312 (e.g., a button, a switch). The first set of indicators 1300 identifies the charge level or other battery status identifier (e.g., damaged or faulty) of the first pair of batteries 210A, 210B received in the upper battery socket 1022A. The second set of indicators 1304 identifies the charge level or other battery status identifier (e.g., damaged or faulty) of the second pair of batteries 210C, 210D received in the lower battery socket 1022B. The mode selection input 1312 allows the user to switch between different modes associated with different fan speeds. The first operating mode is a power saving, low power consumption, low fan speed mode, wherein a first maximum rotation rate of the air mover 1090 is achieved by moving the trigger 115B to a fully engaged position. The second operating mode is a standard operating mode or normal speed mode, wherein a second maximum rotation rate of the air mover 1090 (greater than the first maximum rotation rate of the air mover 1090) is achieved by moving the trigger 115B to a fully engaged position. The third operating mode is a high speed mode, wherein a third maximum rotation rate of the air mover 1090 (greater than the second maximum rotation rate of the air mover 1090) is achieved by moving the trigger 115B to a fully engaged position. In some embodiments, the third operating mode can only be achieved when the required number of batteries 210A-210D are connected to the corresponding interface 1022.

[0079] The third group of indicators 1308 identifies which operation mode is currently selected among the first operation mode, the second operation mode, and the third operation mode. In some embodiments, each of the three indicators 1308 is illuminated in response to the selection of the first operation mode, the second operation mode, and the third operation mode. In other embodiments, the first indicator in the third group of indicators 1308 is illuminated in the first operation mode, the first indicator and the second indicator in the third group of indicators 1308 are illuminated in the second operation mode, and all three indicators in the third group of indicators 1308 are illuminated simultaneously in the third operation mode.

[0080] like Figures 14 to 16As shown, the handle 1236 is electrically coupled to the backpack portion 1010 (and more specifically, to the controller 101 mounted within the backpack portion 1010) via a cable 1320 extending from the handle 1236 to the controller 101. The cable 1320 is external to the flexible conduit 1208 and the rigid conduit 1212 and extends into the mount 1240, through the grip 1244, and to the trigger switch 115A and the GUI 405A. The controller 101 is also electrically coupled to the air mover 1090 and the battery 205A-D so that the signals provided by the trigger switch 115A and the GUI 405A generate signals for controlling the air mover 1090.

[0081] In operation, the batteries 210A-D of the power tool 1000 powered by the battery pack are as described above with reference to Figures 1 to 5 The power tool 1000 operates based on user control provided by user input and interface 1248. In order to actuate the power tool 1000 to generate airflow, the user moves the trigger 115B from the disengaged position toward the engaged position. The movement of the trigger 115A from the disengaged position engages the trigger switch 115B, which sends an electrical signal to the controller 101. The controller 101 provides a signal indicating the position of the trigger 115B to the motor 105 to control the rotation rate of the motor 105. The motor 105 is actuated to rotate the impeller 1098 to draw air through the inlet 1082 and discharge the air to the outlet 1204 of the arm 1014. Modifying the position of the trigger modifies the rotation speed of the motor 105 to generate more or less airflow through the outlet 1204. The user can maintain the current position of the trigger 115B by rotating the power hold actuator 1260 from the unlocked position to the locked position without continuing to manually press the trigger 115B. Further, the user may modify the operating mode of the power tool 1000 by selecting a different operating mode via the mode selection input 1312 to modify the maximum airflow rate.

[0082] Although the disclosure has been described in detail with reference to certain preferred embodiments, variations and modifications exist within the scope and spirit of one or more independent aspects of the disclosure described. Various features and advantages are set forth in the following claims.

Claims

1. A power tool powered by a battery pack, characterized in that: Power tools powered by this battery pack include: a backpack portion configured to be supported by a user, the backpack portion comprising: a back plate; a first battery pack interface coupled to the back plate for receiving a first battery; and a second battery pack interface coupled to the back plate for receiving a second battery pack, the second battery pack interface being positioned below the first battery pack interface, wherein the first battery pack interface is angled relative to the second battery pack interface at an angle between 45 degrees and 90 degrees; and An arm portion includes a rigid conduit and a flexible conduit coupling the rigid conduit to the backpack portion, and a handle having a user input and interface configured to control operation of the power tool powered by the battery pack.

2. The battery-powered power tool according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first battery pack interface extends away from the back plate by a first distance measured perpendicular to the back plate, wherein the second battery pack interface extends away from the back plate by a second distance measured perpendicular to the back plate, wherein the first distance is less than the second distance.

3. The battery-powered power tool according to claim 1, characterized in that: The power tool further includes an L-shaped protrusion having a substantially vertical leg and a substantially horizontal leg, the L-shaped protrusion extending rearwardly from the back plate, wherein the first battery pack interface is formed in the substantially vertical leg and the second battery pack interface is formed in the substantially horizontal leg.

4. The battery-powered power tool according to claim 1, characterized in that: The backpack portion further includes an air mover, a motor configured to drive the air mover, an inlet through which the air mover is configured to draw air, and an outlet in communication with the arm portion.

5. The battery-powered power tool according to claim 4, characterized in that: The flexible duct is coupled to the outlet of the backpack portion to receive the airflow from the air mover, wherein the rigid duct is coupled to the flexible duct to receive the airflow from the flexible duct, and wherein the rigid duct includes an outlet for exhausting the airflow from the rigid duct.

6. The battery-powered power tool according to claim 5, characterized in that: The handle includes a trigger configured to move from a disengaged position toward a fully engaged position to actuate the air mover.

7. The battery-powered power tool according to claim 6, characterized in that: The handle includes a powered hold actuator having a locking cam configured to selectively engage the trigger so that in an unlocked position, the locking cam does not restrict movement of the trigger, and in a locked position, the locking cam engages the trigger to maintain the current position of the trigger.

8. The battery-powered power tool according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first battery pack interface is one of a plurality of first battery pack interfaces spaced apart from one another along the back panel, and wherein the second battery pack interface is one of a plurality of second battery pack interfaces spaced apart from one another along the back panel, wherein the plurality of first battery pack interfaces and the second battery pack interfaces form a rectangular array.

9. The battery-powered power tool according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first battery pack interface is angled relative to the second battery pack interface at an angle less than 90 degrees.

10. The battery-powered power tool according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first battery pack interface is angled relative to the second battery pack interface at an angle between 75 degrees and 85 degrees.

11. The battery-powered power tool according to claim 1, characterized in that: The battery-powered power tool further comprises a controller programmed to switch between the battery groups for supplying power to the power tool comprising an electronic controller programmed to: Connecting a first battery pack group to the first battery pack interface and the second battery pack interface of the power tool; Connecting a second battery pack group to the first battery pack interface of the power tool; Discharging the first battery group to supply power to the power tool; determining a first condition of the first battery group using the electronic controller; Based on the first condition of the first battery group, discharging the second battery group to supply power to the power tool; determining, using the electronic controller, a second condition of the second battery group; determining, using the electronic controller, whether the first battery group has reached end of discharge; as well as In response to determining that the first battery group has not reached end of discharge, the first battery group is discharged based on the second condition.

12. The battery-powered power tool according to claim 1, characterized in that: The battery-powered power tool further includes a controller mounted to the backpack portion and programmed to receive signals from the user input and interface via a cable, wherein the cable is external to the rigid conduit and the flexible conduit.

13. The battery-powered power tool according to claim 1, characterized in that: The handle is repositionable between a plurality of positions along the length of the rigid catheter.

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