Power Tools

Abstract

A power tool includes a housing containing an electric motor, a working element, a shaft extending between the housing and the working element, and a clamp coupled to the shaft and extending along a longitudinal axis between a first end and a second end. The shaft includes an outer shaft and an inner shaft. The clamp is actuatable between a locked position and an unlocked position. The inner shaft is configured to slide longitudinally within the outer shaft when the clamp is in the unlocked position. When the clamp is in the locked position, the outer shaft and the inner shaft are fixed in a desired position.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application is a nonprovisional application claiming priority under 35 USC §119(e) to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 461,736 filed on April 25, 2023 and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 621,277 filed on January 16, 2024, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure generally relates to outdoor power tools, such as pole saws and telescopic pole saws, having improved clamping capabilities. Background Art

[0004] Telescopic pole tools, such as telescopic pole saws, allow the length of the pole tool to be adjusted to meet specific needs. For example, telescopic pole tools generally include an inner shaft that can slide longitudinally within an outer shaft, and a clamp for locking or securing the inner shaft and the outer shaft in place. Clamps for telescopic pole tools may present several problems. For example, the clamp may require multiple rotations to loosen and tighten the clamp. This may be time consuming and difficult for some operators. In addition, the clamp may become stuck and become difficult to loosen.

[0005] Therefore, there is a need in the art for an improved clamp and a telescopic pole tool having the improved clamp. In particular, a telescopic pole tool having a clamp with improved clamping and adjustment capabilities would be advantageous. Utility Model Content

[0006] According to the present disclosure, various aspects and advantages of the present invention will be partially set forth in the following description, or may be apparent from the description, or may be understood through technical practice.

[0007] According to one embodiment, a power tool is provided. The power tool includes: a housing containing an electric motor, a working element, a shaft extending between the housing and the working element, and a clamp coupled to the shaft and extending along a longitudinal axis between a first end and a second end. The shaft includes an outer shaft and an inner shaft. The clamp can be actuated between a locked position and an unlocked position. The inner shaft is configured to slide longitudinally within the outer shaft when the clamp is in the unlocked position. When the clamp is in the locked position, the outer shaft and the inner shaft are fixed in a desired position. The clamp includes an inner collar coupled to the outer shaft, an outer collar rotatable about the inner collar between a locked position and an unlocked position, and a chuck adjacent to the first end within the outer collar and configured to engage the inner collar in the locked position.

[0008] According to another embodiment, a power tool is provided. The power tool includes a housing containing an electric motor, a working element, a shaft extending between the housing and the working element, and a clamp coupled to the shaft and extending between a first end and a second end along a longitudinal axis. The shaft includes an outer shaft and an inner shaft. The clamp can be actuated between a locked position and an unlocked position. The inner shaft is configured to slide longitudinally in the outer shaft when the clamp is in the unlocked position. When the clamp is in the locked position, the outer shaft and the inner shaft are fixed in a desired position. The clamp includes an inner collar coupled to the outer shaft, an outer collar that can rotate around the inner collar between the locked position and the unlocked position, a biasing member between the inner collar and the outer collar, and a release button coupled to the inner collar. The outer collar includes a plurality of protrusions extending from the inner surface of the outer collar adjacent to the second end. The release button defines one or more grooves, and the one or more grooves are used to receive one or more of the plurality of protrusions of the outer collar.

[0009] According to another embodiment, a method for using an electric tool is provided. The method includes providing a long-handled tool. The long-handled tool includes a housing containing an electric motor, a working element, a shaft extending between the housing and the working element, and a clamp extending along a longitudinal axis between a first end and a second end. The shaft includes an outer shaft and an inner shaft, and the inner shaft is configured to slide longitudinally within the outer shaft. The clamp is configured to fix the outer shaft and the inner shaft in a desired position. The clamp includes an inner collar and an outer collar configured to engage with the inner collar. The method also includes rotating the outer collar of the clamp around the inner collar in a first direction so that the outer collar moves toward the first end to an unlocked position, translating the inner shaft to a desired position within the outer shaft, and rotating the outer collar of the clamp around the inner collar in a second direction so that the outer collar moves toward the second end to a locked position.

[0010] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following description and appended claims.The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the present technology and, together with the description, are used to explain the principles of the present technology. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] The specification provides a comprehensive and achievable disclosure of the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings, which is directed to a person skilled in the art and includes the best mode for making and using the present system and method, in which:

[0012] Figure 1A is a perspective view of a pole saw in an extended position according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0013] Figure 1B According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the Figure 1A A perspective view of a pole saw;

[0014] Figure 2AAccording to an embodiment of the present disclosure, Figure 1A-1B A perspective view of a fixture for a pole saw;

[0015] Figure 2B According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, Figure 2A A detailed perspective view of the end of the clamp;

[0016] Figure 2C According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, Figure 2A An exploded view of the fixture;

[0017] Figure 2D According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, Figure 2A A cross-sectional view of a fixture;

[0018] Figure 2E According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, Figure 2A A detailed internal view of the fixture;

[0019] Figure 3A According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the Figure 1A-1B A perspective view of the fixture;

[0020] Figure 3B According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the Figure 3A A perspective view of the fixture;

[0021] Figure 4A is a detailed perspective view of a clamp according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0022] Figure 4B According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, Figure 4A A perspective view of the outer sleeve ring of the clamp;

[0023] Figure 4C According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, Figure 4B An internal perspective view of the outer sleeve ring;

[0024] Figure 4D According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, Figure 4A A perspective view of an inner collar of a clamp; and

[0025] Figure 5 According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, operation Figure 1A-1B Flow chart of a method of using a long pole saw. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to embodiments of the present invention, one or more examples of which are shown in the accompanying drawings. The word "exemplary" is used herein to mean "used as an example, instance or illustration". Any implementation described herein as "exemplary" is not necessarily interpreted as being more preferred or more advantageous than other implementations. In addition, each example is provided by way of explanation rather than limitation of the technology. In fact, it is obvious to those skilled in the art that modifications and changes may be made to the present technology without departing from the scope or spirit of the claimed technology. For example, a feature shown or described as part of one embodiment may be used together with another embodiment to produce yet another embodiment. Therefore, the present disclosure is intended to cover such modifications and changes within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents. Numerical and letter marks are used in the specific implementation to represent features in the drawings. Similar or similar marks in the drawings and the specification are used to refer to similar or similar parts in the present invention.

[0027] As used herein, the terms "first", "second" and "third" can be used interchangeably to distinguish one component from another, rather than to indicate the position or importance of a single component. The singular expressions "one", "an" and "the" also include plural cases, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Terms such as "coupled", "fixed", "connected to" refer to direct coupling, fixing or connection, as well as indirect coupling, fixing, or connection through one or more intermediate components or features, unless otherwise specified in the text. The terms "include", "comprise", "compose", "have" or any other variants thereof herein are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, article or device including a set of features is not necessarily limited to these features, but may include features that are not explicitly listed or other features inherent to such a process, method, article or device. In addition, unless there is a clear statement to the contrary, "or" is inclusive rather than exclusive. For example, any of the following satisfies conditions A or B: A is true (or exists) and B is false (or does not exist), A is false (or does not exist) and B is true (or exists), and both A and B are true (or exist).

[0028] Terms indicating approximation, such as "about," "approximately," "approximately," or "substantially," include values ​​within 10% greater or less than the value being described. When used in the context of an angle or direction, these terms include values ​​within 10 degrees greater or less than the angle or direction being described. For example, "approximately perpendicular" includes directions that deviate from perpendicular within 10 degrees in any direction (e.g., clockwise or counterclockwise).

[0029] The benefits, other advantages and solutions to the problems are described below in conjunction with specific embodiments. However, the benefits, advantages, solutions to the problems and any features that may cause any benefit, advantage or solution to occur or become more obvious should not be construed as key, required or essential features of any or all claims.

[0030] Generally, a telescopic pole saw includes an outer shaft and an inner shaft, the inner shaft being configured to slide within the outer shaft so that the length of the telescopic pole saw can be customized. The telescopic pole saw includes a clamp for securing the inner shaft and the outer shaft in a locked position during operation. The clamp can provide sufficient force to hold the inner shaft and the outer shaft in the locked position while requiring minimal rotation of the clamp to loosen and tighten the clamp.

[0031] Now referring to the accompanying drawings, Figure 1A A perspective view of a pole saw in an extended position is shown according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 1B The embodiment of the present disclosure is shown in a retracted position. Figure 1A Perspective view of a pole saw.

[0032] In at least one example embodiment, the long pole tool 100 generally includes a working element 102, a housing 104, and an axis, such as a long pole 106, which extends between and connects the working element 102 and the housing 104. The housing 104 can be located at a first end of the long pole tool 100, such as a rear end 134, and the working element 102 can be located at a second end of the long pole tool 100 opposite the first end, such as a front end 135.

[0033] In at least one example embodiment, the length of the long shaft 106 is adjustable. For example, the long shaft 106 can be telescopic, including one or more segments that can be telescopically moved relative to each other. The long shaft tool 100 can include an outer shaft 106A and an inner shaft 106B. The inner shaft 106B can be configured to be in an extended position (e.g., Figure 1A ) and the retracted position (as shown in Figure 1B 106A and the inner shaft 106B are longitudinally slidable between the outer shaft 106A and the inner shaft 106B. The operator can adjust the distance between the working element 102 and the housing 104 by adjusting the relative position of the outer shaft 106A and the inner shaft 106B relative to each other. For example, the operator can move the outer shaft 106A and the inner shaft 106B between the retracted position and the extended position. In at least one example embodiment, the clamp 108 can be used to hold the outer shaft 106A and the inner shaft 106B in a relatively fixed position relative to each other.

[0034] In at least one example embodiment, the working element 102 of the long pole tool 100 is a sawing tool configured to cut material. The sawing tool includes a rod 110 extending from a working element housing 112. A chain 114 extends in an infinite loop around the rod 110 and is driven to move along the track of the rod 110. When holding the long pole tool 100 at the housing 104 and the long pole 106, the operator can manipulate the sawing tool to a position adjacent to an object (e.g., a branch) and push the chain 114 into the object to cut the object while the chain 114 is moving. The operator can repeat this process as needed. An optional shoulder strap or body strap 116 can be coupled to at least a portion of the long pole tool 100. For example, the optional shoulder strap or body strap 116 can be coupled to a portion of the long pole 106 adjacent to the housing 104. The optional shoulder strap or body strap 116 can be used to reduce fatigue when using the long pole tool 100 for a long time.

[0035] In at least one example embodiment, the chain 114 is driven by a motor (not shown). For example, the motor may be housed in the housing 104. A drive shaft may extend through the long rod 106 to transfer power from the motor to the chain 114 via a sprocket. In other example embodiments, the motor may be housed in the working element housing 112 and drive the chain 114 via a sprocket.

[0036] In at least one example embodiment, the motor can be an electric motor, such as a direct current (DC) brushless motor. The motor includes an output shaft rotatably pinned to a sprocket, such as by a drive shaft. When the output shaft rotates, the chain 114 is driven within the track of the rod 110. In an example embodiment, the motor receives power from a power source 118. For example, the power source 118 may include one or more batteries.

[0037] In at least one example embodiment, the long pole tool 100 includes a receiving area 120 configured to receive a power source 118. For example, the receiving area 120 can be configured to receive one or more batteries, such as at least two batteries, at least three batteries, or even at least four batteries. In at least one example embodiment, the power source 118 can be installed in the receiving area 120 by a translational movement oriented in the direction indicated by arrow A. In other example embodiments, the power source 118 can be installed in the receiving area 120 by a translational movement oriented in another direction, a rotational movement, or a translation-rotational movement.

[0038] Figure 2A According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, Figure 1A-1B A perspective view of the fixture of a pole saw. Figure 2B According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, Figure 2A A detailed perspective view of the end of the fixture. Figure 2C According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, Figure 2AExploded view of the fixture. Figure 2D According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, Figure 2A A cross-sectional view of the fixture. Figure 2E According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, Figure 2A Detailed internal view of the fixture.

[0039] In at least one example embodiment, the clamp 108 includes an outer collar 200, an inner collar 205, and a collet 210. The outer collar 200 extends from a first end 201 to a second end 202 of the clamp 108 along a longitudinal axis 215. Additionally, the inner collar 205 and the collet 210 extend along the longitudinal axis 215 such that a central axis extending through each of the outer collar 200, the inner collar 205, and the collet 210 is aligned with the longitudinal axis 215.

[0040] In at least one example embodiment, the outer collar 200 is configured to receive at least a portion of the inner collar 205 and the collet 210. For example, the outer collar 200 defines a first opening 230 that is configured to receive at least a portion of the inner collar 205 and the collet 210. Additionally, the outer collar 200 includes a first plurality of threads 220 that extend from an inner surface into the first opening 230 of the outer collar 200 adjacent the first end 201.

[0041] In at least one example embodiment, outer collar 200 includes a base portion 240 adjacent to second end 202 and an end portion 245 adjacent to first end 201. For example, end portion 245 can extend from base portion 240 toward first end 201. In at least one example embodiment, base portion 240 and end portion have a substantially cylindrical shape. Additionally, a diameter of end portion 245 can decrease from base portion 240 toward first end 201. In other example embodiments, the diameters of end portion 245 and base portion 240 are substantially equal.

[0042] In at least one example embodiment, the outer collar 200 includes at least one protrusion 250 extending from the inner surface of the outer collar 200 adjacent to the first end 201. For example, the at least one protrusion 250 may extend from the inner surface of the end portion 245. The at least one protrusion 250 may include an inclined surface such that the diameter of the first opening 230 in the end portion 245 decreases from the first end 201 toward the second end 202. In at least one example embodiment, the at least one protrusion 250 includes a plurality of protrusions extending from the inner surface of the end portion 245 of the outer collar 200, such as Figure 2C In other example embodiments, the at least one protrusion 250 may be a single continuous protrusion extending around the inner circumference of the end portion 245 of the outer ferrule 200 .

[0043] In at least one example embodiment, the collet 210 includes a collet base 255 and a flange 260 extending from the collet base 255 adjacent to the first end 201. The end of the collet 210 adjacent to the second end 202 may also define an inclined surface whose width increases from the second end 202 toward the first end 201. For example, the collet 210 includes at least one collet protrusion 265 extending from the outer surface of the collet base 255 opposite the flange 260. The collet 210 may have a generally cylindrical shape. The collet 210 defines a second opening 263, which is configured to receive at least a portion of the inner shaft 106B. In addition, the collet base 255 of the collet 210 may be discontinuous. For example, the collet base 255 may define a plurality of notches or gaps 270, and each of the plurality of gaps 270 has a plurality of deformable members 275 therebetween. Each of the plurality of deformable members 275 may include at least one collet protrusion 265. In other exemplary embodiments, the clamp base 255 is continuous.

[0044] In at least one example embodiment, the inner collar 205 includes a base portion 280 extending along the longitudinal axis 215 and a flange 285 extending from the base portion 280 adjacent to the second end 202. The base portion 280 and the flange 285 may have a substantially cylindrical shape and define a third opening 235 through the inner collar 205. The third opening 235 is configured to receive at least a portion of the outer shaft 106A. The third opening 235 may also receive at least a portion of the inner shaft 106B. In addition, an end portion of the inner collar 205 adjacent to the first end 201 defines an inclined surface whose width increases from the first end 201 to the second end 202. For example, the inner surface of the inner collar 205 includes a tapered surface 283 adjacent to the first end 201. In addition, the tapered surface 283 tapers or narrows toward the first end 201 so that the diameter of the third opening 223 increases toward the first end 201.

[0045] In at least one example embodiment, the inner collar 205 includes a second plurality of threads 225 extending from an outer surface of the inner collar 205 adjacent the first end 201. For example, the second plurality of threads 225 may extend from an outer surface of the base portion 280. The second plurality of threads 225 of the inner collar 205 is configured to engage the first plurality of threads 220 of the outer collar 200.

[0046] In at least one example embodiment, the first end 201 of the outer collar 200 is configured to receive the collet 210. For example, the collet 210 is inserted into the first opening 230 at the end portion 245 of the outer collar 200. The at least one collet protrusion 265 is configured to engage the at least one protrusion 250 of the outer collar. For example, when the collet 210 is inserted into the end portion 245 of the outer collar 200, the at least one collet protrusion 265 slides over the at least one protrusion 250. The plurality of deformable members 275 of the collet 210 may be pushed inwardly by the at least one protrusion 250 until the at least one collet protrusion 265 seats on or engages with the at least one protrusion 250, as shown in FIG. Figure 2E Once the collet 210 is seated in the outer sleeve 200, as shown in Figure 2D-2E As shown in , the collet 210 will not move axially relative to the outer collar 200 along the longitudinal axis 215. In at least one example embodiment, when the collet 210 is fully seated within the outer collar 200, the flange 260 of the collet 210 is flush with the end of the outer collar 200 (e.g., the end of the end portion 245).

[0047] In at least one example embodiment, the outer collar 200 is rotatable about the inner collar 205 between an unlocked position and a locked position (eg, Figure 2D ). In the unlocked position, the inner shaft 106B can slide axially within the outer shaft 106A along the longitudinal axis 215. For example, an operator of the long shaft tool 100 can slide the inner shaft 106B to a desired position within the outer shaft 106A so that the long shaft tool 100 has a desired length for operation.

[0048] In at least one example embodiment, rotation of the outer collar 200 about the inner collar 205 in a first direction moves the outer collar 200 toward the second end 202 to a locked position (eg, Figure 2D ). The rotation of the outer collar 200 about the inner collar 205 in the second direction moves the outer collar 200 toward the first end 201 to the unlocked position. The second direction is opposite to the first direction. For example, the first direction may be a counterclockwise direction about the longitudinal axis 215, and the second direction may be a clockwise direction about the longitudinal axis 215. In other example embodiments, the first direction may be a clockwise direction about the longitudinal axis 215, and the second direction may be a counterclockwise direction about the longitudinal axis 215.

[0049] In at least one example embodiment, rotation of the outer collar 200 about the inner collar 205 in a first direction moves both the outer collar 200 and the collet 210 toward the second end 202 to an unlocked position, while rotation of the outer collar 200 about the inner collar 205 in a second direction moves both the outer collar 200 and the collet 210 toward the first end 201 to a locked position. The outer collar 200 rotates about the inner collar 205 via the threaded engagement between the first plurality of threads 220 and the second plurality of threads 225. In at least one example embodiment, the outer collar 200 is configured to rotate less than or equal to about 90° in the first direction and less than or equal to about 90° in the second direction. In other example embodiments, the outer collar 200 can freely rotate more than 90° about the inner collar 205, as will be described below with reference to Figures 4A-4D As discussed.

[0050] In at least one example embodiment, the collet 210 is rotationally isolated from the rotation of the outer collar 200. For example, when the outer collar 200 rotates, the collet 210 does not rotate. However, movement of the outer collar 200 toward the first end 201 and the second end 202 also moves the collet 210 along the longitudinal axis 215 toward the first end 201 and the second end 202.

[0051] In at least one example embodiment, movement of the outer collar 200 and collet 210 toward the second end 202 moves the collet 210 into engagement with at least a portion of the inner collar 205. For example, at least one collet protrusion 265 is configured to engage the tapered surface 283 of the inner collar 205. In the locked position, as shown in FIG. Figure 2D 2, at least one collet protrusion 265 is seated within the tapered surface 283 of the inner collar such that the tapered surface 283 at the first end 201 of the inner collar 205 surrounds the at least one collet protrusion 265 of the collet 210. When the tapered surface 283 engages the at least one collet protrusion 265, the tapered surface 283 of the inner collar 205 exerts an inward force on the plurality of deformable members 275 toward the longitudinal axis 215. This inward force exerted by the tapered surface 283 on the at least one collet protrusion 265 also pushes the plurality of deformable members 275 inward toward the longitudinal axis 215 to engage the inner shaft 106B. The engagement of the inner shaft 106B places the clamp 108 in a locked position such that the inner shaft 106B and the outer shaft 106A are in a desired position and the inner shaft 106B is prevented from sliding within the outer shaft 106A.

[0052] In at least one example embodiment, movement of the outer collar 200 and collet 210 toward the first end 201 moves the collet 210 out of engagement with the inner collar 205. For example, the tapered surface 283 is no longer engaged with the at least one collet protrusion 265, causing the plurality of deformable members 275 to be released from engagement with the inner shaft 106B. In such an embodiment, the clamp 108 is now in an unlocked position, allowing the inner shaft 106B to slide within the outer shaft 106A.

[0053] refer to Figure 2D In some example embodiments, the clamp 108 may include a mounting member 290. The mounting member 290 may include a cylindrical plate configured to be coupled to an inner surface of the outer shaft 106A. The outer shaft 106A and the inner collar 205 may define one or more corresponding openings for receiving one or more fasteners 293. The one or more fasteners 293 are configured to secure the inner collar 205 to the outer shaft 106A via the mounting member 290. In at least one example embodiment, the one or more fasteners 293 may include one or more bolts, one or more screws, one or more pins, or a combination thereof.

[0054] Reference now Figure 2B , the first end 201 of the outer ferrule 200 includes a plurality of protrusions, such as a plurality of projections 295, and a plurality of recesses 298 are defined between each of the plurality of projections 295. For example, the end portion 245 includes the plurality of projections 295 and the plurality of recesses 298. In at least one example embodiment, the plurality of projections 295 may be evenly spaced around the outer surface of the end portion 245 of the outer ferrule 200. In other example embodiments, the plurality of projections 295 may be unevenly spaced around the outer surface of the end portion 245 of the outer ferrule 200.

[0055] In at least one example embodiment, the plurality of protrusions 295 provide an engagement surface for a tool. For example, a tool such as a wrench may be able to grip the outer collar 200 via the plurality of protrusions 295 to rotate the outer collar in a first direction and a second direction. In the event that the clamp 108 is stuck and the operator of the long-handled tool 100 is unable to rotate the outer collar 200 of the clamp 108, a tool may be required to rotate the outer collar 200.

[0056] Figure 3A The embodiment of the present disclosure is shown in a locked position. Figure 1A-1B A perspective view of the fixture. Figure 3B The embodiment of the present disclosure is shown in the unlocked position. Figure 3A A perspective view of the fixture.

[0057] In at least one example embodiment, the outer collar 200 is moved from the locked position ( Figure 3A) to the unlocked position allows the outer collar 200 to slide off the inner collar 205, as shown in Figure 3B For example, the outer collar 200 can be rotated to the unlocked position until the first plurality of threads 220 are disengaged from the second plurality of threads 225. After the first plurality of threads 220 are disengaged from the second plurality of threads 225, the outer collar 200 can be slid away from the inner collar 205 in the direction of the first end 201, as shown in FIG. Figure 3B In addition, the inner shaft 106B can slide within the outer shaft 106A.

[0058] Figure 4A A detailed perspective view of a clamp according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 4B According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, Figure 4A A perspective view of the outer sleeve ring of the clamp. Figure 4C According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, Figure 4B An internal perspective view of the outer sleeve ring. Figure 4D According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, Figure 4A A perspective view of the inner collar of the clamp.

[0059] In at least one example embodiment, the long-pole tool 100 includes a clamp 408. For example, the clamp 408 may be used in place of Figure 1A-1B 1. The clamp 408 includes an outer collar 400 and an inner collar 405. The clamp 408 extends between a first end 401 and a second end 402 along a longitudinal axis 412. The longitudinal axis 412 is aligned with a central axis extending along the length of the shaft 106. In addition, a central axis extending through both the outer collar 400 and the inner collar 405 is aligned with the longitudinal axis 412.

[0060] refer to Figure 4B-4C , the outer collar 400 includes a base portion 410 adjacent to the second end 402 and an end portion 415 adjacent to the first end 401. For example, the end portion 415 can be an inclined portion extending from the base portion 410 toward the first end 401. For example, the end portion 415 tapers from the base portion 410 toward the first end 401. The end portion 415 can form an angle 420 with the outer surface of the base portion 410. In some example embodiments, the angle 420 is less than about 90°. For example, the angle 420 can be about 45°.

[0061] In at least one example embodiment, the outer collar 400 defines a first opening 423. The first opening 423 is configured to receive at least a portion of the inner collar 405. In addition, the outer collar 400 includes a plurality of protrusions 425 extending from the inner surface of the outer collar 400 to the first opening 423 adjacent to the second end 402. In at least one example embodiment, each of the plurality of protrusions 425 can taper from one end to an opposite end. For example, each of the plurality of protrusions 425 can taper from an end adjacent to one of the plurality of protrusions to an opposite end adjacent to another of the plurality of protrusions 425. The plurality of protrusions 425 can also be evenly spaced around the periphery of the inner surface of the outer collar 400. In other example embodiments, the plurality of protrusions 425 can be unevenly spaced around the periphery of the inner surface of the outer collar 400.

[0062] In at least one example embodiment, the outer ferrule 400 includes a first plurality of threads 430 extending from an inner surface of the outer ferrule 400. The first plurality of threads 430 may be opposite the plurality of protrusions 425 and adjacent to the first end 401. For example, the first plurality of threads 430 may extend from an inner surface of the base portion 410 of the outer ferrule 400 adjacent to the first end 401. In at least one example embodiment, the first plurality of threads 430 is discontinuous around the inner surface of the outer ferrule 400. In other example embodiments, the first plurality of threads 430 is continuous around the inner surface of the outer ferrule 400.

[0063] Reference now Figure 4D , the inner collar 405 defines a second opening 435 that is configured to receive at least a portion of the outer shaft 106A and the inner shaft 106B. For example, at least a portion of the inner collar 405 can be fixedly coupled to a portion of the outer shaft 106A, and another portion of the inner collar 405 can be configured to engage a portion of the inner shaft 106B. In at least one example embodiment, the inner collar 405 includes a plurality of deformable members 440 extending from the first end 401 of the inner collar 405. The plurality of deformable members 440 are configured to engage the inner shaft 106B, as will be discussed in detail below.

[0064] In at least one example embodiment, the inner collar 405 includes a second plurality of threads 445 extending from an outer surface of the inner collar 405. The second plurality of threads 445 can be adjacent to the first end 401. The second plurality of threads 445 is configured to engage the first plurality of threads 430 of the outer collar 400. In addition, the inner collar includes an actuator, such as a release button 450, adjacent to the second end 402. The release button 450 defines one or more grooves 455, and the one or more grooves 455 are configured to receive the plurality of protrusions 425 of the outer collar 400.

[0065] In at least one example embodiment, the clamp 408 includes a biasing member 460. The biasing member 460 may be positioned between the inner collar 405 and the outer collar 400. For example, the biasing member 460 may be a spring wrapped around at least a portion of the inner collar 405. In at least one example embodiment, the biasing member is a torsion spring.

[0066] In at least one example embodiment, the outer collar 400 can rotate about the inner collar 405 between an unlocked position and a locked position. For example, the outer collar 400 rotates about the inner collar 405 by engaging the first plurality of threads 430 of the outer collar 400 with the second plurality of threads 445 of the inner collar 405. The rotation of the outer collar 400 about the inner collar 405 in a first direction causes the outer collar 400 to move in an axial direction toward the second end 402 to the locked position. In the locked position, at least one of the plurality of protrusions 425 is configured to engage one or more grooves 455, such as Figure 4A As shown in . The outer collar 400 is rotated in the first direction about the inner collar 405 to the locked position and also engages the biasing member 460. For example, in the locked position, the biasing member is in an engaged or retracted position.

[0067] Additionally, when the outer collar 400 moves toward the second end 402 to the locked position, the end portion 415 begins to exert an inward force on the plurality of deformable members 440. For example, the inward force exerted by the end portion 415 pushes the plurality of deformable members 440 inward toward the longitudinal axis 412 and the inner shaft 106B. Additionally, in the locked position, the plurality of deformable members 440 exert a force or pressure on the inner shaft 106B. The engagement of the plurality of deformable members 440 with the inner shaft 106B places the clamp 408 in the locked position, such that the inner shaft 106B and the outer shaft 106A are fixed in a desired position and the inner shaft 106A is prevented from sliding within the outer shaft 106B.

[0068] In at least one example embodiment, applying force to or depressing the release button 450 is configured to release one or more of the plurality of protrusions 425 from the one or more slots 455 so that the outer collar 400 can rotate in the second direction. Releasing the plurality of protrusions 425 from the one or more slots 455 also allows the energy stored in the retracted biasing member 460 to be released. Thus, the energy released by the biasing member 460 when the biasing member 460 returns to its disengaged or extended position causes the outer collar 400 to rotate in the second direction. The second direction is opposite to the first direction. In at least one example embodiment, the first direction is counterclockwise and the second direction is clockwise. In other example embodiments, the first direction is clockwise and the second direction is counterclockwise.

[0069] In at least one example embodiment, rotation of the outer collar 400 in the second direction moves the outer collar in an axial direction toward the first end 401 to an unlocked position. In the unlocked position, the end portion 415 is disengaged from the plurality of deformable members 440, such that the plurality of deformable members 440 are disengaged from the inner shaft 106B. Thus, in the unlocked position, the inner shaft 106B can slide within the outer shaft 106A.

[0070] Figure 5 The operation according to the embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 1A-1B Flow chart of a method of using a long pole saw.

[0071] In at least one example embodiment, a method 500 of operating a power tool such as a long handle tool 100 includes providing the long handle tool at 505, rotating a clamp of the long handle tool to an unlocked position at 510, translating an inner shaft of the long handle tool within an outer shaft of the long handle tool at 515, and rotating the clamp of the long handle tool to a locked position at 520.

[0072] In at least one example embodiment, providing a long-handled tool at 505 includes providing a long-handled tool 100, such as Figure 1A-1B As shown in . The long pole tool 100 includes a housing 104 containing an electric motor, a working element 102, and a long pole 106 extending between the housing 104 and the working element 102. The electric motor can also be disposed in the housing 104. The long pole 106 includes an outer shaft 106A and an inner shaft 106B, and the inner shaft 106B is configured to slide longitudinally within the outer shaft 106A.

[0073] In at least one example embodiment, the long-bar tool 100 includes a clamp 108, such as Figures 2A-3B The clamp 108 extends along a longitudinal axis 215 between a first end 201 and a second end 202 . The clamp 108 is configured to fix the outer shaft 106A and the inner shaft 106B in a desired position. In addition, the clamp 108 includes an outer collar 200 and an inner collar 205 .

[0074] In another exemplary embodiment, the long pole tool 100 includes a clamp 408, such as Figures 4A-4D The clamp 408 extends along the longitudinal axis 412 between the first end 401 and the second end 402. The clamp 408 is configured to fix the outer shaft 106A and the inner shaft 106B in a desired position. In addition, the clamp 108 includes an outer collar 400 and an inner collar 404.

[0075] In at least one example embodiment, rotating the clamp of the long pole to the unlocked position at 510 includes rotating the outer collar 200 of the clamp 108 in a first direction about the inner collar 205 such that the outer collar 200 moves toward the first end 201 to the unlocked position. Rotating the outer collar 200 in the first direction may include rotating the outer collar 200 about the inner collar 205 by less than or equal to about 90°. In another example embodiment, rotating the clamp of the long pole to the unlocked position at 510 includes rotating the outer collar 400 of the clamp 408 in the first direction about the inner collar 405 such that the outer collar 400 moves toward the first end 401 to the unlocked position. In such an embodiment, the clamp 408 may include a biasing member 460 and the inner collar 405 may include a release button 450. Thus, rotating the outer collar 400 of the clamp 408 in the first direction may also include applying a force to the release button 450 such that the plurality of protrusions 425 disengage from the one or more grooves 455 and the biasing member 460 rotates the outer collar 400 in the first direction to the unlocked position, as described above with reference to Figures 4A-4D discussed.

[0076] In at least one example embodiment, translating the inner shaft within the outer shaft of the long shaft tool at 515 includes translating the inner shaft 106B to a desired position within the outer shaft 106A. For example, an operator of the long shaft tool 100 can adjust the length of the long shaft tool by sliding the inner shaft 106B within the outer shaft 106A to a desired position.

[0077] In at least one example embodiment, rotating the clamp of the long pole tool to the locked position at 520 includes rotating the outer collar 200 of the clamp 108 about the inner collar 205 in the second direction such that the outer collar 200 moves toward the second end 202 to the locked position. Rotating the outer collar 300 in the second direction may include rotating the outer collar 200 about the inner collar 205 by less than or equal to about 90°. In another example embodiment, rotating the clamp of the long pole tool to the locked position at 520 includes rotating the outer collar 400 of the clamp 408 about the inner collar 405 in the second direction such that the outer collar 400 moves toward the second end 402 to the locked position. For example, the outer collar 400 may be rotated in the second direction until one or more of the plurality of protrusions 425 engage with the one or more grooves 455, as described above with respect to Figures 4A-4D In the locked position, the outer shaft 106A and the inner shaft 106B are fixed in a desired position, thereby preventing the inner shaft 106B from sliding within the outer shaft. Therefore, the operator can then operate the long-handled tool 100 as desired.

[0078] Other aspects of the present invention are provided by one or more of the following embodiments:

[0079] A power tool includes: a housing containing an electric motor; a working element; a shaft extending between the housing and the working element; and a clamp coupled to the shaft and extending along a longitudinal axis between a first end and a second end. The shaft includes an outer shaft and an inner shaft. The clamp is actuatable between a locked position and an unlocked position. The inner shaft is configured to slide longitudinally within the outer shaft when the clamp is in the unlocked position. The outer shaft and the inner shaft are fixed in a desired position when the clamp is in the locked position. The clamp includes: an inner collar coupled to the outer shaft; an outer collar rotatable about the inner collar between a locked position and an unlocked position; and a chuck adjacent to the first end within the outer collar and configured to engage with the inner collar in the locked position.

[0080] The power tool of any one or more embodiments, wherein the inner surface of the outer collar includes a first plurality of threads adjacent the first end, the outer surface of the inner collar includes a second plurality of threads adjacent the first end, and the first plurality of threads are configured to engage with the second plurality of threads.

[0081] An electric tool in any one or more embodiments, wherein rotation of the outer collar in a first direction causes the outer collar and the chuck to move toward the second end to a locked position, and rotation of the outer collar in a second direction causes the outer collar and the chuck to move toward the first end to an unlocked position, and the second direction is opposite to the first direction.

[0082] The power tool of any one or more embodiments, wherein the collet is configured to engage the inner shaft in a locked position and prevent movement of the inner shaft.

[0083] The power tool of any one or more embodiments, wherein the chuck is rotationally isolated from the outer collar.

[0084] The power tool of any one or more embodiments, wherein the outer collar is configured to rotate about the inner collar by less than or equal to 90° in a first direction and less than or equal to 90° in a second direction.

[0085] An electric tool in any one or more embodiments, wherein an end portion of the chuck adjacent to the second end defines a first inclined surface having a width that increases from the second end toward the first end, an end portion of the inner collar adjacent to the first end defines a second inclined surface having a width that increases from the first end toward the second end, and in the locked position, the first inclined surface engages with the second inclined surface.

[0086] The power tool of any one or more embodiments may further include a mounting member configured to secure the inner collar to the outer shaft, and one or more fasteners configured to secure the mounting member to the inner collar and the outer shaft.

[0087] The power tool of any one or more embodiments, wherein the mounting member comprises a cylindrical plate coupled to an inner surface of the outer shaft.

[0088] The power tool of any one or more embodiments, wherein the outer collar includes a plurality of protrusions extending from the outer surface adjacent to the first end, the plurality of protrusions being spaced apart around the outer circumference of the outer collar.

[0089] A power tool includes: a housing containing an electric motor; a working element; a shaft extending between the housing and the working element; and a clamp coupled to the shaft and extending between a first end and a second end along a longitudinal axis. The shaft includes an outer shaft and an inner shaft. The clamp is actuable between a locked position and an unlocked position. The inner shaft is configured to slide longitudinally within the outer shaft when the clamp is in the unlocked position. When the clamp is in the locked position, the outer shaft and the inner shaft are fixed in a desired position. The clamp includes: an inner collar coupled to the outer shaft; an outer collar rotatable about the inner collar between a locked position and an unlocked position; a biasing member between the inner collar and the outer collar; and a release button coupled to the inner collar. The outer collar includes a plurality of protrusions extending from an inner surface of the outer collar adjacent to the second end. The release button defines one or more grooves for receiving one or more of the plurality of protrusions of the outer collar.

[0090] The power tool of any one or more embodiments, wherein the inner collar includes a first plurality of threads extending from an outer surface of the inner collar adjacent the first end, and the outer collar includes a second plurality of threads extending from an inner surface of the outer collar, the second plurality of threads being configured to engage with the first plurality of threads.

[0091] An electric tool in any one or more embodiments, wherein rotation of the outer sleeve around the inner sleeve in a first direction causes the outer sleeve to move toward the second end to a locked position, and rotation of the outer sleeve around the inner sleeve in a second direction causes the outer sleeve to move toward the first end to an unlocked position, and the second direction is opposite to the first direction.

[0092] The power tool of any one or more embodiments, wherein the inner collar includes a plurality of deformable members adjacent to the first end, and an end portion of the outer collar adjacent to the first end is configured to exert an inward force on the plurality of deformable members so that the plurality of deformable members engage the inner shaft in a locked position.

[0093] The power tool of any one or more embodiments, wherein the outer collar includes a base portion and an inclined portion. The inclined portion is adjacent to the first end, has a diameter that decreases from the base portion toward the first end, and is configured to engage the plurality of deformable members in the locked position.

[0094] An electric tool in any one or more embodiments, wherein a force applied to a release button is configured to release the plurality of protrusions from the one or more grooves, and the biasing member is configured to rotate the outer collar in a second direction so that when a force is applied to the release button, the outer collar moves toward the first end to an unlocked position.

[0095] The power tool of any one or more embodiments, wherein the biasing member is a torsion spring surrounding at least a portion of the inner collar.

[0096] A method for using an electric tool includes providing a long-handled tool. The long-handled tool includes a housing containing an electric motor, a working element, a shaft extending between the housing and the working element, and a clamp extending between a first end and a second end along a longitudinal axis. The shaft includes an outer shaft and an inner shaft, and the inner shaft is configured to slide longitudinally within the outer shaft. The clamp is configured to fix the outer shaft and the inner shaft in a desired position. The clamp includes an inner collar and an outer collar configured to engage with the inner collar. The method also includes rotating the outer collar of the clamp around the inner collar in a first direction so that the outer collar moves toward the first end to an unlocked position, translating the inner shaft within the outer shaft to a desired position, and rotating the outer collar of the clamp around the inner collar in a second direction so that the outer collar moves toward the second end to a locked position.

[0097] The method of any one or more embodiments, wherein rotating the outer collar of the fixture in a first direction comprises rotating the outer collar less than or equal to 90°, and rotating the outer collar of the fixture in a second direction comprises rotating the outer collar less than or equal to 90°.

[0098] The method of any one or more embodiments, wherein the clamp further comprises a biasing member surrounding at least a portion of the inner collar, the outer collar comprising a plurality of protrusions extending from an inner surface of the outer collar, and the inner collar comprises a release button. The release button defines one or more grooves configured to engage the plurality of protrusions in a locked position. Rotating the outer collar of the clamp in a first direction comprises applying a force to the release button such that the plurality of protrusions disengage from the one or more grooves, and the biasing member rotates the outer collar in the first direction to an unlocked position.

[0099] This specification uses examples to disclose the utility model, including the best mode, and enables any technician in the field to practice the utility model, including making and using any device or system and performing any combined method. The patent scope of the utility model is defined by the claims and may include other examples that can be thought of by those skilled in the art. If these other examples include structural elements that are not different from the literal wording of the claims, or include equivalent structural elements that are not substantially different from the literal wording of the claims, the scope of the claims covers these other examples.

Claims

1. An electric tool, characterized in that: The electric tool comprises: a housing containing an electric motor; Working components; a shaft extending between the housing and the working element, wherein the shaft includes an outer shaft and an inner shaft; and a clamp coupled to the shaft and extending along a longitudinal axis between a first end and a second end, wherein the clamp is actuatable between a locked position and an unlocked position, wherein the inner shaft is configured to slide longitudinally within the outer shaft when the clamp is in the unlocked position, and wherein when the clamp is in the locked position, the outer shaft and the inner shaft are secured in a desired position, the clamp comprising: an inner collar coupled to the outer shaft, an outer collar rotatable about the inner collar between the locked position and the unlocked position, and A collet is disposed within the outer collar adjacent the first end and is configured to engage the inner collar in the locked position.

2. The electric tool according to claim 1, characterized in that: The inner surface of the outer collar includes a first plurality of threads adjacent the first end; The outer surface of the inner collar includes a second plurality of threads adjacent the first end; and The first plurality of threads is configured to engage with the second plurality of threads.

3. The electric tool according to claim 1, characterized in that: Rotation of the outer collar in a first direction causes the outer collar and the collet to move toward the second end to the locked position; Rotation of the outer collar in the second direction moves the outer collar and the collet toward the first end to the unlocked position; and The second direction is opposite to the first direction.

4. The electric tool according to claim 3, characterized in that: The collet is configured to engage the inner shaft in the locked position and prevent movement of the inner shaft.

5. The electric tool according to claim 3, characterized in that: The collet is rotationally isolated from the outer collar.

6. The electric tool according to claim 3, characterized in that: The outer collar is configured to rotate about the inner collar by less than or equal to 90° in a first direction and by less than or equal to 90° in a second direction.

7. The electric tool according to claim 1, characterized in that: An end portion of the chuck adjacent to the second end defines a first inclined surface having a width that increases from the second end toward the first end; An end portion of the inner collar adjacent to the first end defines a second inclined surface having a width that increases from the first end to the second end; and In the locked position, the first inclined surface engages the second inclined surface.

8. The electric tool according to claim 1, characterized in that: The electric tool further comprises: a mount configured to secure the inner collar to the outer shaft; and One or more fasteners configured to secure the mount to the inner collar and the outer shaft.

9. The electric tool according to claim 8, characterized in that: The mount includes a cylindrical plate coupled to an inner surface of the outer shaft.

10. The electric tool according to claim 1, characterized in that: The outer collar includes a plurality of protrusions extending from an outer surface adjacent the first end, the plurality of protrusions being spaced apart around an outer circumference of the outer collar.

11. An electric tool, characterized in that: The electric tool comprises: a housing containing an electric motor; Working components; a shaft extending between the housing and the working element, wherein the shaft includes an outer shaft and an inner shaft; and a clamp coupled to the shaft and extending along a longitudinal axis between a first end and a second end, wherein the clamp is actuatable between a locked position and an unlocked position, wherein the inner shaft is configured to slide longitudinally within the outer shaft when the clamp is in the unlocked position, and wherein when the clamp is in the locked position, the outer shaft and the inner shaft are secured in a desired position, the clamp comprising: an inner collar coupled to the outer shaft, an outer collar rotatable about the inner collar between the locked position and the unlocked position, the outer collar including a plurality of protrusions extending from an inner surface of the outer collar adjacent the second end, a biasing member between the inner collar and the outer collar, and A release button is coupled to the inner collar, the release button defining one or more slots for receiving one or more of the plurality of projections of the outer collar.

12. The electric tool according to claim 11, characterized in that: The inner collar includes a first plurality of threads extending from an outer surface of the inner collar adjacent the first end; and The outer collar includes a second plurality of threads extending from an inner surface of the outer collar, the second plurality of threads being configured to engage with the first plurality of threads.

13. The electric tool according to claim 11, characterized in that: Rotation of the outer collar about the inner collar in a first direction causes the outer collar to move toward the second end to the locked position; The outer collar rotates around the inner collar in the second direction to move the outer collar toward the first end to the unlocked position; and The second direction is opposite to the first direction.

14. The electric tool according to claim 13, characterized in that: The inner collar includes a plurality of deformable members adjacent the first end; and An end portion of the outer collar adjacent the first end is configured to exert an inward force on the plurality of deformable members such that the plurality of deformable members engage the inner shaft in the locked position.

15. The electric tool according to claim 14, characterized in that: The outer collar includes a base portion and an inclined portion, the inclined portion being adjacent to the first end, the inclined portion having a diameter that decreases from the base portion toward the first end; and The inclined portion is configured to engage the plurality of deformable members in the locked position.

16. The electric tool according to claim 13, characterized in that: A force applied to the release button is configured to release the plurality of projections from the one or more slots; and The biasing member is configured to rotate the outer collar in a second direction such that when a force is applied to the release button, the outer collar moves toward the first end to the unlocked position.

17. The electric tool according to claim 11, characterized in that: The biasing member is a torsion spring surrounding at least a portion of the inner collar.

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