Electric tool

Abstract

A power tool includes: an electric motor operably coupled to a working element; a terminal configured to interface with a battery to provide power from the battery to the electric motor to drive the working element; a screwdriver wrench holder; and a screwdriver wrench, where the screwdriver wrench is disengageable from the screwdriver wrench holder when the battery is disengageable from the terminal, and where the screwdriver wrench is inaccessible when the battery is coupled to the terminal.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application is a non-provisional application, claiming priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 461,716 filed on April 25, 2023 and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 543,365 filed on October 10, 2023, which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure generally relates to a screwdriver wrench holder and a tool having the same, and in particular, to a power tool. Background Art

[0004] Power tools require constant adjustment and maintenance during use. One tool utilized on several types of power tools for performing adjustments and maintenance is a screwdriver wrench. Screwdriver wrenches typically include multiple types of tools combined into a single unit. These tools make tool adjustment and maintenance more convenient by providing the operator with a tool that functions multiple functions in a single structure.

[0005] A conventional screwdriver wrench includes a screwdriver and one or more wrench sockets. The screwdriver includes a body that is generally straight to define a longitudinal axis that terminates at opposing terminals and a distal end. The wrench socket is generally disposed at or adjacent to one of the terminals or distal ends of the screwdriver. When the wrench socket is used, the screwdriver body acts as a handle, permitting leverage on the wrench socket.

[0006] There are several known methods of storing screwdriver wrenches. The first option is to store the screwdriver wrench separately from the power tool. This can be performed by using a multi-purpose belt, a belt holder, a pocket, a tool box or tool cabinet, a work bag, another tool storage device, or by simply placing the screwdriver wrench on the ground at the work site. The second option is to store the screwdriver wrench on the tool. However, there are several problems with storage on the tool. First, during use, the screwdriver wrench may loosen from the tool and fall off. The operator may have difficulty finding the screwdriver wrench. Second, the screwdriver wrench may be inconveniently placed in a position that interferes with the operation of the tool. Third, the screwdriver wrench may be stored in a position where one end of the screwdriver wrench extends beyond one or more external dimensions of the tool, making tool storage inconvenient.

[0007] Therefore, an improved screwdriver wrench holder and a tool having an improved screwdriver wrench holder are desired in the art. In particular, it would be advantageous to provide a screwdriver wrench holder and a power tool having a screwdriver wrench holder for convenient screwdriver wrench storage. Utility Model Content

[0008] Aspects and advantages of the present invention according to the present disclosure will be set forth in part in the following description, or may be obvious from the description, or may be learned through practice of the present technology.

[0009] According to one embodiment, a power tool is provided. The power tool includes: an electric motor operably coupled to a working element; a terminal configured to interface with a battery to provide power from the battery to the electric motor to drive the working element; a screwdriver wrench holder; and a screwdriver wrench, wherein the screwdriver wrench can be detached from the screwdriver wrench holder when the battery is detached from the terminal, and wherein the screwdriver wrench is inaccessible when the battery is coupled to the terminal.

[0010] According to another embodiment, a power tool is provided. The power tool includes: a battery; a screwdriver wrench; and a screwdriver wrench holder, wherein the screwdriver wrench is removable from the screwdriver wrench holder when the battery is detached from the power tool, and wherein the screwdriver wrench is inaccessible when the battery is coupled to the power tool.

[0011] According to another embodiment, a method of using a screwdriver wrench on a power tool is provided. The method includes: removing a battery from a terminal of the power tool; and removing the screwdriver wrench from a screwdriver wrench holder while removing the battery from the power tool, wherein the screwdriver wrench is prevented from being accessed before the battery is removed from the terminal.

[0012] 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 serve to explain the principles of the present technology. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] A complete and enabling disclosure of the present invention, including the best mode of making and using the present system and method, for one of ordinary skill in the art is set forth in the specification with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0014] Figure 1 is a perspective tool of a pole saw according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0015] Figure 2 is a rear perspective view of a portion of a pole saw including a screwdriver wrench coupled to a screwdriver wrench holder of the pole saw according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0016] Figure 3 is a side view of a portion of a pole saw according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0017] Figure 4 is a top view of a portion of a pole saw according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0018] Figure 5 is a side perspective view of components of a guard of a pole saw according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0019] Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of the utility model, one or more examples of embodiments of the utility model are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The word "exemplary" used herein means "used as an example, instance or illustration". Any implementation described herein as "exemplary" is not necessarily to be interpreted as being more preferred or advantageous than other implementations. In addition, each example is provided as an explanation of the present technology rather than a limitation of the present technology. In fact, it is obvious to those skilled in the art that modifications and variations can be made to the present technology without departing from the scope or spirit of the claimed technology. For example, a feature illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used together with another embodiment to produce a further embodiment. Therefore, the present disclosure is intended to cover such modifications and variations that fall within the scope of the attached claims and their equivalents. The specific implementation uses numbers and letter marks to refer to features in the drawings. The same or similar marks in the drawings and the specification are used to refer to the same or similar parts in the utility model.

[0020] As used herein, the terms "first", "second" and "third" can be used interchangeably to distinguish one component from another component, and are not intended to indicate the position or importance of each component. Unless the context clearly stipulates otherwise, the singular forms "one", "an" and "the" include plural references. Unless otherwise specified herein, the terms "connect", "fix", "attach" and the like refer to direct connection, fixation or attachment, as well as indirect connection, fixation or attachment through one or more intermediate components or features. As used herein, the terms "include", "comprise", "include", "include", "have", "encompass" or any other variant thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, article or device including a series of features is not necessarily limited to these features, but may include other features that are not explicitly listed or inherent to these processes, methods, articles or devices. In addition, unless there is a clear statement to the contrary, "or" refers to inclusive or, not exclusive or. For example, condition A or B is satisfied by any of: 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).

[0021] Approximate terms, such as "about," "substantially," "approximately," or "substantially," include values ​​within ten percent greater or less than the stated value. When used in the context of angles or directions, such terms include within ten degrees greater or less than the stated angle or direction. For example, "substantially vertical" includes directions within ten degrees of vertical in any direction (e.g., clockwise or counterclockwise).

[0022] Benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems are described below with respect to specific embodiments. However, benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any features that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to appear or become more significant should not be construed as critical, required, or essential features of any or all claims.

[0023] The power tools described herein generally include a screwdriver wrench holder for storing a screwdriver wrench when the screwdriver wrench is not needed for use. When stored, it is not desirable for the screwdriver wrench to detach from the power tool. If the screwdriver wrench detaches from the power tool during use of the tool, the screwdriver wrench may be lost or damaged. In order to prevent the screwdriver wrench from accidentally detaching from the power tool, the screwdriver wrench holder can be set in a selectively inaccessible position when the power tool or one or more parts thereof are moved to a position where the screwdriver wrench cannot be reached. Conversely, when the power tool or one or more parts thereof are moved to a position where the screwdriver wrench can be reached, this position of the screwdriver wrench holder can be reached.

[0024] In an embodiment, the power tool is a power tool that includes one or more batteries that provide power to drive a working element of the power tool, such as a powered saw. When the batteries are connected to the power tool, at least one of the batteries may interfere with a screwdriver wrench holder to selectively prevent removal of the screwdriver wrench from the screwdriver wrench holder. The screwdriver wrench may be accessible when the battery is detached from the power tool. Thus, an operator may access the screwdriver wrench by removing the battery from the power tool. Conversely, by attaching the battery to the power tool, the operator may alleviate access to the screwdriver wrench and prevent the screwdriver wrench from accidentally detaching from the power tool.

[0025] Removing the battery before accessing the screwdriver wrench may result in not allowing the power tool to be used while the operator is performing a screwdriver wrench operation. That is, the battery needs to be removed from the power tool to access the screwdriver wrench. Accessing the screwdriver wrench by removing the battery will render the power tool inactive. Since returning the screwdriver wrench to the screwdriver wrench holder requires removing the battery, it is believed that the operator will use the screwdriver wrench to perform operations on the power tool with the battery removed, and therefore the power tool is inactive. In this regard, the power tool cannot be activated during a screwdriver wrench operation, and the operator is safer working around dangerous working elements (such as toothed chains, moving blades, rotating trimmer cords, reciprocating blades, etc.).

[0026] Now referring to the accompanying drawings, Figure 1 A power tool according to an exemplary embodiment is illustrated. The power tool depicted is a pole saw 100. The pole saw 100 generally includes: a working element 102; a body 104; and a rod 106, which extends between the working element 102 and the body 104 and connects the working element and the body together. In an embodiment, the length of the rod 106 is adjustable. For example, the rod 106 can be telescopic, including one or more segments 106A and 106B that are telescopically movable relative to each other. The operator can adjust the distance between the working element 102 and the body 104 by adjusting the relative position of the segments 106A and 106B relative to each other. The lock 108 can be used to maintain the segments 106A and 106B in a relatively fixed position relative to each other.

[0027] The working element 102 of the pole saw 100 is a sawing tool configured to cut material. The sawing tool includes a guide bar 110 extending from a working element housing 112. A chain 114 extends endlessly around the guide bar 110 and is driven to move within the track of the guide bar 110. Holding the pole saw 100 at the body 104 and the rod 106, the operator can maneuver the sawing tool to a position near an object (such as 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 used to reduce fatigue when using the pole saw 100 for a long time.

[0028] The chain 114 is driven by a motor (not shown). In one embodiment, the motor is housed in the body 104. A drive shaft may extend through the rod 106 to transmit power from the motor to the chain 114 via a sprocket. In another embodiment, the motor may be housed in the working element housing 112 and drive the chain 114 via a sprocket.

[0029] As a non-limiting example, the motor can be an electric motor, such as a direct current (DC) brushless motor. The motor includes an output shaft that is rotatably pinned to a sprocket, for example, via a drive shaft. When the output shaft rotates, the chain 114 is driven within the track of the guide plate 110. In an embodiment, the motor receives power from one or more batteries 116.

[0030] like Figure 1 As depicted, the pole saw 100 may include a receiving area 120 configured to receive a single battery 116. However, in other embodiments, the receiving area 120 may receive a plurality of batteries 116, such as at least two batteries, at least three batteries, or even at least four batteries. In an embodiment, one or more batteries 116 may be installed in the receiving area 120 by a translational movement oriented in the direction shown by arrow A. In another embodiment, one or more batteries 116 may be installed in the receiving area 120 by a translational movement oriented in another direction, a rotational movement, or a translation-rotational movement.

[0031] Figure 2 A portion of a pole saw 100 is illustrated, with the receiving area 120 shown as being defined by a dashed outline. Figure 3 A portion of a pole saw 100 having a receiving area 120 is illustrated from a side view. Figure 4 A portion of a pole saw 100 having a receiving area 120 is illustrated from a top view.

[0032] The shape and size of the receiving area 120 are generally defined by the shape and size of the one or more batteries 116 received in the receiving area 120. It should be understood that the entire receiving area 120 may not be physically defined by the pole saw 100. Instead, the receiving area 120 may refer to a volumetric area of ​​the pole saw 100 in which the one or more batteries 116 are disposed when coupled to the pole saw 100. In some cases, the receiving area 120 may also include a volume through which the one or more batteries 116 pass when installed on the pole saw 100. The shape and size of the body 104 (and optionally other components of the pole saw 100) may be designed so that the receiving area 120 closely fits in size and shape with the one or more batteries 116 that fit in the receiving area 120. A pole saw 100 that receives batteries 116 designed to be differently shaped and sized may define a receiving area 120 designed to be differently shaped and sized.

[0033] refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3, the receiving area 120 may be disposed adjacent to a terminal 122 of the pole saw 100. The terminal 122 is configured to interface with the battery 116 and provide power from the battery 116 to the power system of the pole saw 100 that drives the motor. The terminal 122 may include an electrical contact 124 that mates with a corresponding electrical contact of the battery 116 to complete an electrical circuit between the battery 116 and the power system of the pole saw 100. The terminal 122 may also include an engagement structure 126 that is configured to mechanically couple the battery 116 to the pole saw 100. The engagement structure 126 may include one or more guides 128, each of which defines a slot 130. The battery 116 may include complementary features, such as a guide rail (not shown) that slides within the slot 130, to interface the electrical contacts of the battery 116 with the electrical contacts 124 of the terminal 122. The battery 116 may translate from the first position along the guide 128 in the direction shown by arrow A into the receiving area 120 until the battery 116 is electrically coupled to the terminal 122 at a second position within the receiving area 120 .

[0034] In an embodiment, the pole saw 100 includes a protective feature that extends around at least a portion of the battery receiving area 120 to protect the battery from damage such as caused by collision with an object during use or falling from a position of use. The protective feature may include a guard 132. The guard 132 may be coupled to the body 104 and extend in a rearward direction from a rear end 134 of the body 104. In an embodiment, the guard 132 may define the rearmost end of the pole saw 100. In an embodiment, the guard 132 may be formed by two separate parts 132A and 132B coupled together. For example, the two parts 132A and 132B may each extend from the body 104 and meet at the center line of the pole saw 100. The two parts 132A and 132B may each be coupled to the body 104 and coupled together by a fastener (not shown). In some cases, the two parts 132A and 132B may be reflectively symmetrical about the center line of the pole saw 100, or substantially reflectively symmetrical about the center line of the pole saw 100.

[0035] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As depicted, the pole saw 100 can define a second receiving area 136. In an embodiment, the second receiving area 136 can be defined by the receiving area 120, the guard 132, and a best fit plane 138 defined by a surface 139 of the guard 132 opposite the receiving area 120. The second receiving area 136 can be disposed proximate to the receiving area 120. More specifically, when the pole saw 100 is oriented in a normal use orientation (e.g., as Figure 3), the second receiving area 136 can be disposed below the receiving area 120. In some cases, the portion of the pole saw 100 represented by the best fit plane 138 can be open, i.e., contain an aperture through which the receiving area 120 or the second receiving area 136 can be accessed (e.g., as shown in FIG. Figure 2 and Figure 3 ). In other cases, the portion of the pole saw 100 represented by the optimal adapter plate 138 can be enclosed, such as formed by the guard 132. That is, for example, the surface 139 of the guard 132 can extend continuously and enclose the bottom of the second receiving area 136. It should be understood that the second receiving area 136 may not be physically defined by the pole saw 100. Instead, the second receiving area 136 can refer to a volume area of ​​the pole saw 100 that includes one or more features for screwdriver wrench retention, as described in more detail below.

[0036] The second receiving area 136 may include a screwdriver wrench holder 140 that selectively receives a screwdriver wrench 142. When the screwdriver wrench 142 is coupled to the screwdriver wrench holder 140, the screwdriver wrench 142 may be at least partially disposed within the second receiving area 136. In an embodiment, when the screwdriver wrench 142 is coupled to the screwdriver wrench holder 140, the entire screwdriver wrench 142 may be disposed in the second receiving area 136. Because the screwdriver wrench 142 may define one or more sharp edges, it may be desirable to dispose the entire screwdriver wrench 142 in an area, such as the second receiving area 136, that prevents an operator from accidentally contacting the screwdriver wrench 142.

[0037] Figure 5 FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of the second component 132B of the two components according to an embodiment. Figures 2 to 5 , the screwdriver wrench holder 140 can define one or more screwdriver wrench docking areas, such as a first screwdriver wrench docking area 144 and a second screwdriver wrench docking area 146. Each of the screwdriver wrench docking areas can dock with a screwdriver wrench 142 to hold the screwdriver wrench 142 in a storage position on the pole saw 100. Each of the different screwdriver wrench docking areas can hold the screwdriver wrench 142 relative to each other to resist different forces or directions of forces. For example, as a non-limiting example, the first screwdriver wrench docking area 144 can hold the screwdriver wrench 142 in a relatively fixed position relative to the pole saw 100 in a first direction indicated by arrow B, and the second screwdriver wrench docking area 146 can hold the screwdriver wrench 142 in a relatively fixed position relative to the pole saw 100 in a second direction indicated by arrow C (see, for example, Figure 4The first screwdriver wrench docking area 144 and the second screwdriver wrench docking area 146 can together position the screwdriver wrench 142 in a third direction perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction (eg, from Figure 4 The first screwdriver wrench docking area 144 and the second screwdriver wrench docking area 146 together can maintain the screwdriver wrench 142 at a relatively fixed position relative to the second receiving area 136 in each orthogonal direction. In other embodiments, one or more screwdriver wrench docking areas may also include a third screwdriver wrench docking area, a fourth screwdriver wrench docking area, a fifth screwdriver wrench docking area, etc. In some cases, the screwdriver wrench holder 140 or a portion of the screwdriver wrench holder 140 may be integral with the guard 132 or another portion of the pole saw 100, that is, formed as a single piece with the guard or another portion of the pole saw. In other embodiments, the screwdriver wrench holder 140 may include a discrete (i.e., separate) component that is connected to the guard 132 or another portion of the pole saw 100. Exemplary screwdriver wrench docking areas are described below. However, the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the described screwdriver wrench docking areas or the configurations of the described screwdriver wrench docking areas.

[0038] The screwdriver wrench 142 generally comprises two different tools in one - a screwdriver 158 and a socket wrench 160 (see, e.g., Figure 3 The screwdriver 158 forms an elongated shaft that can be received at the first screwdriver wrench interface area 144. The socket wrench 160 includes an opening 162 that can be received at the second screwdriver wrench interface area 146.

[0039] In an embodiment, the first screwdriver wrench interface area 144 may include an arm 148 extending from the guard 132 into the second receiving area 136. In an embodiment, the arm 148 extends in a direction substantially perpendicular to the sidewall of the guard 132. The arm 148 may include a distal aspect, such as a distal flange 150. The first screwdriver wrench interface area 144 may also include a proximal aspect, such as a proximal flange 152. In an embodiment, the proximal flange 152 may extend directly from the sidewall of the guard 132. In another embodiment, the proximal flange 152 may extend from the arm 148. The distal flange 150 and the proximal flange 152 may define a screwdriver wrench receiving area 154 in which a portion of the screwdriver wrench 142 may be disposed when the screwdriver wrench 142 is coupled to the first screwdriver wrench coupling area 144. In an embodiment, the screwdriver wrench receiving area 154 can define a size that is larger than the size of the entrance 156 into the screwdriver wrench receiving area 154. The screwdriver wrench can translate through the entrance 156 to reach the screwdriver wrench receiving area 154. When the screwdriver wrench 142 is moved into the screwdriver wrench receiving area 154, the arm 148 deflects to allow the screwdriver wrench 142 to pass through the entrance 156 and enter the screwdriver wrench receiving area 154. Once the screwdriver wrench 142 passes through the entrance 156, the arm 148 rebounds to its undeflected (i.e., natural) state. In its undeflected state, the arm 148 prevents the screwdriver wrench 142 from being removed from the screwdriver wrench receiving area 154 undesirably. To remove the screwdriver wrench 142 from the screwdriver wrench receiving area 154 , an operator may apply a force to the screwdriver wrench 142 causing the screwdriver wrench 142 to be biased into the arm 148 , thereby causing the arm 1489 to deflect and allow the screwdriver wrench 142 to pass through the entry 156 .

[0040] In an embodiment, the second screwdriver wrench docking area 146 includes a guide 164 onto which the socket wrench 160 fits. The guide 164 can extend into or through an opening 162 in the socket wrench 160. The guide 164 can define an outer dimension, such as a diameter, that is smaller than an inner diameter of the opening 162 of the socket wrench 160. The guide 164 can extend from the guard 132 into the second receiving area 136. To install the screwdriver wrench 142 at the second screwdriver wrench docking area 146, an operator moves the screwdriver wrench 142 into the second receiving area 136, aligns the opening 162 of the socket wrench 160 with the guide 164, and then moves the guide 164 into the second receiving area 136. Figure 4The operator may continue to translate the socket wrench 160 until the screwdriver wrench 142 contacts the guide 132 or is otherwise prevented from translating the screwdriver wrench 142 in the direction associated with the arrow line B. Once the socket wrench 160 is at least partially translated along the guide 164, the socket wrench is in a position other than that associated with the guide 132. Figure 4 The guide member 164 holds the surface of the substrate 164 in all directions except the direction associated with the arrow line B.

[0041] The second screwdriver wrench interface area 146 may also include an auxiliary retaining feature, such as a wall 166 extending around at least a portion of the guide 164. The wall 166 may define an inner dimension, such as a diameter, that is larger than the outer diameter of the socket wrench 160. Figure 4 When the screwdriver wrench 142 is installed in the screwdriver wrench holder 140 by translating the socket wrench 160 in the direction associated with the arrow line B in FIG. 1 , the socket wrench 160 moves to a position within the wall 166 and becomes captured by the wall 166 so that radial movement relative to the guide 164 is prevented by the wall 166. Once captured by the wall 166, the socket wrench 160 is not in any position except for the position associated with the guide 164. Figure 4 The guide 164 and the wall 166 can individually or together prevent the screwdriver wrench 142 from being removed from the second screwdriver wrench docking area 146 in the direction shown by the arrow C ( Figure 4 ).

[0042] In an embodiment, a specific step pattern may be required to install the screwdriver wrench 142 at the screwdriver wrench holder 140. The specific step pattern can be performed by a combination of rotation and translation movement. For example, in some embodiments, the screwdriver wrench 142 is first installed at the second screwdriver wrench docking area 146. The opening 162 of the socket wrench 160 can be aligned relative to the guide 164 and then translated along the guide 164. With the screwdriver wrench 142 at least partially coupled to the second screwdriver wrench coupling area 146, the screwdriver wrench 142 can then be coupled to the first screwdriver wrench coupling area 144. This can be performed by rotating the screwdriver wrench 142 around the guide 164 until the elongated shaft of the screwdriver wrench 142 is captured by the screwdriver wrench receiving area 154 of the first screwdriver wrench docking area 144. In some cases, the screwdriver wrench 142 is stored in this position, wherein the elongated shaft is captured in the screwdriver wrench receiving area 154. In other cases, the screwdriver wrench 142 can be further Figure 4140. The screwdriver wrench 142 is further translated in the direction associated with the arrow line B in FIG. 144 to reach the final storage position. The wall 166 of the second screwdriver wrench docking area 146 can define a cutout 168, through which the elongated shaft of the screwdriver wrench 142 can extend. The cutout 168 can be aligned with the storage area 170 of the first screwdriver wrench docking area 144, which is open to the screwdriver wrench receiving area 154. By further translating the screwdriver wrench 142 to the final storage position, the elongated shaft is at least partially disposed within the cutout 168 and the storage area 170. The screwdriver wrench 142 can be removed from the screwdriver wrench holder 140 using the same steps as described above in reverse. For example, the screwdriver wrench 142 can be removed from the screwdriver wrench holder 140 by first translating the screwdriver wrench 142 away from the storage area 170 toward the distal flange 150, then rotating the screwdriver wrench 142 about the guide 164 until the slender shaft leaves the distal flange 150, and finally translating the screwdriver wrench 142 in a direction along the guide 164 away from the wall 166 until the screwdriver wrench 142 leaves the guide 164.

[0043] Reference again Figure 2 In the depicted embodiment, when the battery 116 is disposed in the receiving area 120, movement around the guide 164 ( Figure 5 ) to remove the screwdriver wrench 142 from the screwdriver wrench holder 140. With the battery 116 in the receiving area 120, any rotation of the screwdriver wrench 142 is achieved by contact between the screwdriver wrench 142 and the outer peripheral surface of the battery 116. It is impossible to remove the screwdriver wrench 142 from the screwdriver wrench holder 140 without rotating the screwdriver wrench 142 around the guide 164. Therefore, removing the screwdriver wrench 142 from the screwdriver wrench holder 140 requires removing the battery 116 from the receiving area 120 before removing the screwdriver wrench 142. In another embodiment, the screwdriver wrench holder 140 or the battery 116 can be oriented in different directions so that when the battery 116 is set in the receiving area 120, the screwdriver wrench 142 is prohibited from being rotated along the guide 164 ( Figure 5 ) to remove the screwdriver wrench from the screwdriver wrench holder 140. That is, the step associated with removing the screwdriver wrench 142 to prevent the screwdriver wrench 142 from accidentally disengaging from the screwdriver wrench holder 140 may be translational rather than rotational. Alternatively, the step of preventing the screwdriver wrench 142 from accidentally disengaging may include both translational movement and rotational movement. That is, when installed in the receiving area 120, the screwdriver wrench 142 may not be translatable or rotatable due to the relative placement of the battery 116 or another object of the pole saw 100.

[0044] Without wishing to be bound by any particular theory, it is believed that requiring the battery 116 to be removed from the receiving area 120 before accessing the screwdriver wrench 142, i.e., disabling the pole saw 100, reduces the likelihood of accidentally engaging the working element 102 (e.g., a saw blade) while the operator is actively performing a screwdriver operation at the working element 102 using the screwdriver wrench 142. In such a manner, the operator is less likely to work on an active tool that could injure the operator if, for example, the working element is accidentally triggered or if the tool malfunctions. In some cases, the pole saw 100 can be disabled by removing the screwdriver wrench 142 from the screwdriver wrench holder 140, such that the operator must return the screwdriver wrench 142 to the screwdriver wrench holder 140 to use the pole saw 100. For example, the screwdriver wrench holder 140 may include a contact disconnect switch that disables the motor when the contact disconnect switch detects that the screwdriver wrench 142 is not present. Thus, regardless of whether the battery 116 is installed in the receiving area 120, the operator cannot use the pole saw 100 without the screwdriver wrench 142 in the stored position. When installed, the battery 116 effectively prevents the screwdriver wrench 142 from accidentally or undesirably becoming detached from the screwdriver wrench holder 140, and thus reduces the likelihood of losing the screwdriver wrench 142 that may occur when holding the screwdriver wrench using a utility belt, belt holder, pocket, tool box or tool cabinet, work bag, other tool storage device, or by simply placing the screwdriver wrench on the ground at a job site.

[0045] Although prevented from disengaging when the battery 116 is in the receiving area 120, the screwdriver wrench 142 remains visible to the operator from at least one vantage point outside the pole saw 100. That is, even when the screwdriver wrench 142 is inaccessible, i.e., when the battery 116 is disposed in the receiving area 120, the operator is able to inspect the power tool 100 to determine whether the screwdriver wrench 142 is present. If the screwdriver wrench 142 is present and it is desired to use the screwdriver wrench 142, the operator can remove the battery 116 from the receiving area 120 to access the screwdriver wrench 142.

[0046] Although the embodiments herein are particularly described with respect to a pole saw, it should be understood that other power tools may include a screwdriver wrench holder 140 according to one or more embodiments described herein. For example, the screwdriver wrench holder 140 may be used with a chain saw, a mini saw, an electric pruner, an electric trimmer, a lawn maintenance tool, and the like. Furthermore, although the embodiments described herein utilize a screwdriver wrench holder 140 disposed at a particular location relative to the pole saw 100, i.e., the screwdriver wrench holder 140 is selectively covered by the receiving area 120, in other embodiments, the screwdriver wrench 142 may be selectively accessible and covered by another element of the power tool. That is, an object or portion of the pole saw or power tool other than the battery may render the screwdriver wrench 142 inaccessible. Furthermore, the screwdriver wrench 142 may be coupled to another area of ​​the power tool or may even be exchanged between a plurality of different storage locations disposed along the power tool.

[0047] Further aspects of the present invention are provided by one or more of the following embodiments:

[0048] Embodiment 1. An electric tool comprising: an electric motor operably connected to a working element; a terminal configured to interface with a battery to provide power from the battery to the electric motor to drive the working element; a screwdriver wrench holder; and a screwdriver wrench, wherein the screwdriver wrench is detachable from the screwdriver wrench holder when the battery is detached from the terminal, and wherein the screwdriver wrench is inaccessible when the battery is connected to the terminal.

[0049] Embodiment 2. An electric tool according to embodiment 1, wherein the electric tool defines a receiving area for receiving the battery, and wherein the electric tool includes a guard disposed around the receiving area to protect the battery from collision, and wherein the screwdriver wrench holder is connected to the guard.

[0050] Embodiment 3. The power tool of Embodiment 2, wherein when the battery is coupled to the terminal, at least a portion of the screwdriver wrench is disposed between the guard and the battery.

[0051] Embodiment 4. An electric tool according to any one of Embodiments 2 or 3, wherein the receiving area has a shape configured to accommodate the battery, wherein the protective member defines a second receiving area for accommodating the screwdriver wrench holder, and wherein the second receiving area is arranged adjacent to the receiving area.

[0052] Embodiment 5. The power tool according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein installation of the screwdriver wrench and removal of the screwdriver wrench from the screwdriver wrench holder are performed using a specific step pattern.

[0053] Embodiment 6. An electric tool according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the screwdriver wrench is installed at the screwdriver wrench holder by translating the screwdriver wrench in a first direction along a guide and then rotating the screwdriver wrench around the guide until the screwdriver wrench is connected to the screwdriver wrench receiving area.

[0054] Embodiment 7. An electric tool according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the screwdriver wrench holder includes a flange for retaining the screwdriver wrench in the screwdriver wrench holder, and wherein the flange is configured to deflect when the screwdriver wrench is introduced into and removed from the screwdriver wrench holder.

[0055] Embodiment 8. The power tool according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the power tool comprises: a body; and a rod extending between the body and the working element, wherein the screwdriver wrench holder is disposed on a rear side of the body.

[0056] Embodiment 9. An electric power tool comprising: a battery; a screwdriver wrench; and a screwdriver wrench holder, wherein the screwdriver wrench is removable from the screwdriver wrench holder when the battery is detached from the electric power tool, and wherein the screwdriver wrench is inaccessible when the battery is connected to the electric power tool.

[0057] Embodiment 10. An electric tool according to Embodiment 9, wherein the electric tool further comprises: a terminal configured to receive a battery; and a guard disposed around the terminal to protect the battery, wherein a screwdriver wrench holder is connected to the guard, wherein removal of the screwdriver wrench from the screwdriver wrench holder is performed at least in part by rotating the screwdriver wrench, and wherein when the battery is connected to the terminal, rotation of the screwdriver wrench is prevented by the battery.

[0058] Embodiment 11. The power tool of Embodiment 10, wherein the screwdriver wrench holder and at least a portion of the guard are formed from a single piece.

[0059] Embodiment 12. The power tool according to any one of Embodiments 9 to 11, wherein the power tool comprises: a body; and a rod extending between the body and the working element, wherein the screwdriver wrench holder is provided on a rear side of the body.

[0060] Embodiment 13. An electric tool according to any one of Embodiments 9 to 12, wherein the battery is removable from the electric tool by translation in a first direction, wherein the screwdriver wrench is removable from the screwdriver wrench holder by translation in a second direction, and wherein the first direction and the second direction are different from each other.

[0061] Embodiment 14. A method for using a screwdriver wrench on a power tool, the method comprising: removing a battery from a terminal of the power tool; and removing the screwdriver wrench from a screwdriver wrench holder while removing the battery from the power tool, wherein the screwdriver wrench is prevented from being touched before the battery is removed from the terminal.

[0062] Embodiment 15. The method of Embodiment 14, wherein removing the screwdriver wrench from the screwdriver wrench holder is performed by rotating the screwdriver wrench about an axis and then translating the screwdriver wrench along the axis.

[0063] Embodiment 16. The method of Embodiment 15, wherein the screwdriver wrench is prevented from rotating about the axis before the battery is removed from the power tool.

[0064] Embodiment 17. A method according to any of Embodiments 14 or 15, wherein translation of the screwdriver wrench along the axis is prevented before the battery is removed from the power tool.

[0065] Embodiment 18. A method according to any one of Embodiments 14 to 17, wherein, after using the screwdriver wrench, the method further comprises: reconnecting the screwdriver wrench to the screwdriver wrench holder; and after reconnecting the screwdriver wrench to the screwdriver wrench holder, reconnecting the battery to the terminal, wherein after reconnecting the battery to the terminal, the screwdriver wrench is prevented from being touched.

[0066] Embodiment 19. A method according to any one of Embodiments 14 to 18, wherein the screwdriver wrench holder includes a first screwdriver wrench docking area, the first screwdriver wrench docking area includes a flange for retaining a screwdriver wrench in the first screwdriver wrench docking area, and wherein removing the screwdriver wrench from the first screwdriver wrench docking area causes the flange to deflect to allow the screwdriver wrench to pass through the first screwdriver wrench docking area.

[0067] Embodiment 20. The method of any one of Embodiments 14 to 19, wherein the screwdriver wrench is visible prior to removing the battery from the terminals.

[0068] This written description uses examples including the best mode to disclose the utility model, and also enables any person skilled in the art to practice the utility model, including making and using any device or system and performing any combined method. The patentable scope of the utility model is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. If such other examples include structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if such other examples include equivalent structural elements that do not differ substantially from the literal language of the claims, such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. An electric tool, characterized in that: The electric tool comprises: an electric motor operatively coupled to the working element; a terminal configured to interface with a battery to provide power from the battery to the electric motor to drive the working element; Screwdriver wrench holder; and Screwdriver wrench; wherein the screwdriver wrench can be detached from the screwdriver wrench holder when the battery is detached from the terminal, and Wherein, the screwdriver wrench is inaccessible when the battery is coupled to the terminals.

2. The electric tool according to claim 1, characterized in that: The power tool defines a receiving area for receiving the battery, and wherein the power tool includes a guard disposed around the receiving area to protect the battery from impact, and wherein the screwdriver wrench holder is coupled to the guard.

3. The electric tool according to claim 2, characterized in that: When the battery is coupled to the terminal, at least a portion of the screwdriver wrench is disposed between the guard and the battery.

4. The electric tool according to claim 2, characterized in that: The receiving area has a shape configured to receive the battery, wherein the guard defines a second receiving area that receives the screwdriver wrench holder, and wherein the second receiving area is disposed proximate to the receiving area.

5. The electric tool according to claim 1, characterized in that: The mounting of the screwdriver wrench and the removal of the screwdriver wrench from the screwdriver wrench holder are performed by a combination of rotational and translational movements.

6. The electric tool according to claim 1, characterized in that: The screwdriver wrench is mounted at the screwdriver wrench holder by translating the screwdriver wrench in a first direction along a guide and then rotating the screwdriver wrench about the guide until the screwdriver wrench couples with a screwdriver wrench receiving area.

7. The electric tool according to claim 1, characterized in that: The screwdriver wrench holder comprises a flange for retaining the screwdriver wrench in the screwdriver wrench holder, and wherein the flange is configured to deflect when the screwdriver wrench is introduced into and removed from the screwdriver wrench holder.

8. The electric tool according to claim 1, characterized in that: The electric tool comprises: the subject; and a rod extending between the body and the working element, Wherein, the screwdriver wrench holder is arranged on the rear side of the main body.

9. An electric tool, characterized in that: The electric tool comprises: Battery; Screwdriver wrench; and Screwdriver wrench holder; wherein the screwdriver wrench is removable from the screwdriver wrench holder when the battery is detached from the power tool, and wherein the screwdriver wrench is inaccessible when the battery is coupled to the power tool.

10. The electric tool according to claim 9, characterized in that: The electric tool further comprises: a terminal configured to receive the battery; and a protective member disposed around the terminal to protect the battery, wherein the screwdriver wrench holder is coupled to the guard, wherein the screwdriver wrench is removed from the screwdriver wrench holder at least in part by rotating the screwdriver wrench, and Wherein, when the battery is coupled to the terminal, the battery prevents rotation of the screwdriver wrench.

11. The electric tool according to claim 10, characterized in that: The screwdriver wrench holder and at least a portion of the guard are formed from a single piece.

12. The electric tool according to claim 9, characterized in that: The electric tool comprises: the subject; and a rod extending between the body and the working element, Wherein, the screwdriver wrench holder is arranged on the rear side of the main body.

13. The electric tool according to claim 9, characterized in that: The battery is removable from the power tool by translation in a first direction, wherein the screwdriver wrench is removable from the screwdriver wrench holder by translation in a second direction, and wherein the first and second directions are different from each other.

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