Electric tool

Abstract

A power tool is provided. The power tool includes a housing having an electric motor, a working element, and a drive shaft extending between the electric motor and the working element. The power tool is configured to fit within a cylinder having a diameter not greater than 6 inches when the power tool is in a fully assembled state.

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 / 461,723 filed on April 25, 2023 and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 609,631 filed on December 13, 2023, which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to power tools and, in particular, to outdoor power tools such as pole saws and telescopic pole saws. Background Art

[0004] Tool storage on utility vehicles, such as tree service, landscape maintenance, and power utility vehicles, is a strategic operation. The tools need to be easy to use and remain secure during transport. The tool storage should also have a small footprint to effectively and efficiently fit the tools on the utility vehicle. Tools are typically stored in a tube mounted on the utility vehicle. However, there is currently no telescoping pole saw that can fit within such a tube in a fully assembled state.

[0005] Therefore, improved techniques that address the problems described above are desired in the art.In particular, a telescopic pole saw that fits within a tube mounted on a utility vehicle in a fully assembled state would be advantageous. Utility Model Content

[0006] Aspects and advantages of the present disclosure 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 technology.

[0007] According to one embodiment, a power tool is provided. The power tool includes a housing including an electric motor, a working element, and a drive shaft extending between the electric motor and the working element. The power tool is configured to fit within a cylinder having a diameter no greater than 6 inches when the power tool is in a fully assembled state.

[0008] According to another embodiment, a power tool is provided. The power tool includes: a housing including an electric motor; a working element; a drive shaft extending along a longitudinal axis between the electric motor and the working element; and at least one rod extending along the longitudinal axis between a first end and a second end. The drive shaft is disposed within the at least one rod. The power tool fits within a cylinder having a diameter no greater than 6 inches when the power tool is in a fully assembled state. A motor axis extending through the electric motor is offset from the longitudinal axis.

[0009] According to another embodiment, a method of using a power tool is provided. The method includes: disposing a pole tool in a container; grasping the pole tool at a guard disposed on a housing of the pole tool with the pole tool disposed in the container; and translating the pole tool from a cylindrical storage volume of the container via the guard in a direction parallel to a longitudinal axis of the container. The pole tool includes a housing including an electric motor, a working element, and a drive shaft extending between the electric motor and the working element. The diameter of the cylindrical storage volume is no greater than 6 inches and the pole tool is in a fully assembled state within the cylindrical storage volume.

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

[0011] 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, wherein

[0012] In the figure:

[0013] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a pole saw according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0014] Figure 2A According to the embodiment of the present disclosure Figure 1 an interior view of a portion of a pole saw;

[0015] Figure 2B According to the embodiment of the present disclosure Figure 1 a cross section of a portion of a pole saw;

[0016] Figure 3A According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, Figure 1 A perspective end view of a pole saw;

[0017] Figure 3B According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, in a cylindrical container Figure 1 A perspective end view of a pole saw;

[0018] Figure 3C According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, in a cylindrical container Figure 1 A side view of a pole saw;

[0019] Figure 4 is a side view of a utility vehicle including a cylindrical container according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0020] Figure 5 The operation according to the embodiment of the present disclosure Figure 1 Flow chart of a method of making a pole saw. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021] 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.

[0022] 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).

[0023] 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).

[0024] 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.

[0025] Typically, the tool is stored within a tube on a utility vehicle, such as a polyvinyl chloride ("PVC") tube mounted to the utility vehicle. The telescopic pole saw may be stored within the tube in a fully assembled state so that the telescopic pole saw may be easily inserted into and removed from the tube. For example, the telescopic pole saw may fit within a tube having a diameter of 6 inches or less in its fully assembled state.

[0026] Now referring to the accompanying drawings, Figure 1 A perspective view of a pole saw according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0027] In at least one example embodiment, the pole saw 100 generally includes a working element 102, a housing 104, and a rod 106 extending between and connecting the working element 102 and the housing 104. The housing 104 may be at a first end of the pole saw 100, such as a rear end 134, and the working element 102 may be at a second end, such as a front end 135, opposite the first end of the pole saw 100.

[0028] In at least one example 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 can be telescopically moved relative to each other. For example, segment 106A can be an outer rod and segment 106B can include an inner rod. In other example embodiments, segment 106B can be an outer rod and segment 106A can be an inner rod. The inner rod can be configured to slide longitudinally between a retracted position and an extended position within the outer rod. The operator can adjust the distance between the working element 102 and the housing 104 by adjusting the relative position of the segments 106A and 106B relative to each other. For example, the operator can move one or more segments 106A and 106B between a retracted position and an extended position. In at least one example embodiment, a lock or clamp 108 can be used to maintain the segments 106A and 106B in a relatively fixed position relative to each other.

[0029] In at least one example embodiment, 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 along the track of the guide bar 110. When the pole saw 100 is held at the housing 104 and the bar 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 while the chain 114 moves to cut the object. 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 pole saw 100. For example, the optional shoulder strap or body strap 116 can be coupled to a portion of the bar 106 adjacent to the housing 104. The optional shoulder strap or body strap 116 can be used to reduce fatigue when using the pole saw 100 for a long time.

[0030] In at least one example embodiment, the chain 114 is driven by a motor. For example, the motor can be housed within the housing 104, as will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B The drive shaft may extend through the rod 106 to transmit power from the motor to the chain 114 via the sprocket. In other exemplary embodiments, the motor may be housed within the working element housing 112 and drive the chain 114 via the sprocket.

[0031] 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 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 example embodiment, the motor receives power from a power source 118. For example, the power source 118 can include one or more batteries.

[0032] In at least one example embodiment, the pole saw 100 includes a receiving area 120 that is 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 mounted in the receiving area 120 by a translational movement oriented in the direction shown by arrow A. In other example embodiments, the power source 118 can be mounted in the receiving area 120 by a translational movement oriented in another direction, a rotational movement, or a translation-rotational movement.

[0033] Figure 2A The embodiment according to the present disclosure is illustrated Figure 1 An interior view of a portion of a pole saw. Figure 2B According to the embodiment of the present disclosure Figure 1 Cross section of a part of a pole saw.

[0034] In at least one example embodiment, the motor 200 is disposed within the housing 104. As explained above, the motor 200 can be an electric motor. A drive shaft 205 extends between the motor 200 and the working element 102. The drive shaft 205 extends along a longitudinal axis 210 extending from the rear end 134 to the front end 135 and along the rod 106 of the pole saw 100. For example, the drive shaft 205 is disposed within the rod 106 between the motor 200 and the working element 102.

[0035] In at least one example embodiment, the motor 200 includes a motor shaft 215 that is configured to drive rotation of the drive shaft 205. The motor shaft 215 of the motor 200 can be offset from the drive shaft 205. For example, a motor axis 220 extending along the motor shaft 215 can be offset from the longitudinal axis 210. In at least one example embodiment, the motor axis 220 is parallel to the longitudinal axis 210. The offset of the motor shaft 215 from the longitudinal axis 210 allows the housing 104 to have a smaller profile. For example, the pole saw 100 can be configured to fit within a cylindrical container or tube, as will be described below with reference to FIG. 3A to FIG. 3C discussed in more detail.

[0036] Figure 3A The diagram shows a cylindrical container according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 1 Perspective end view of a pole saw. Figure 3B The diagram shows a cylindrical container according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 1 Perspective end view of a pole saw. Figure 3C The diagram shows a cylindrical container according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 1 Side view of a pole saw.

[0037] In at least one example embodiment, the pole saw 100 is configured to fit within a container 300 having a diameter 305 when in a fully assembled state. For example, the housing 104, the pole 106, and the working element housing 112 fit within the container 300 in a fully assembled state. The power source 118 may also fit within the container 300 in a fully assembled state. In at least one example embodiment, the diameter 305 of the container 300 is no greater than about 6 inches.

[0038] In at least one example embodiment, container 300 is a cylinder, such as FIG. 3A to FIG. 3C In other example embodiments, the container 300 may have a rectangular or other polygonal shape.

[0039] In at least one example embodiment, the central axis 310 extends through the container 300. Figure 3C. When the pole saw 100 is fully inserted into the container 300, the longitudinal axis 210 of the pole saw 100 can be configured to be parallel to the central axis 310 of the container 300. For example, the pole saw can include a support 315 extending from the working element housing 112. The support 315 and at least a portion of the guard 132 can be configured to maintain the pole saw 100 in a horizontal position such that the longitudinal axis 210 is parallel to the central axis 310 when the pole saw in a fully assembled state is within the container 300. In other example embodiments, the longitudinal axis 210 of the pole saw 100 can be angled or offset from the central axis 310 of the container 300.

[0040] refer to Figure 3A , the shape and size of the receiving area 120 of the pole saw 100 is generally defined by the shape and size of the power source 118 (such as one or more batteries) 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. Alternatively, the receiving area 120 may refer to a volumetric area of ​​the pole saw 100 in which the power source 118 is disposed when the power source 118 is coupled to the pole saw 100. In some example embodiments, the receiving area 120 may also include a volume through which the power source 118 passes when installed on the pole saw 100. The shape and size of the housing 104 (and optionally, other components of the pole saw 100) may be designed so that the receiving area 120 is closely matched in size and shape with the power source 118 that fits in the receiving area 120. Pole saws 100 that receive power sources 118 designed to be different shapes and sizes may define receiving areas 120 designed to be different shapes and sizes.

[0041] In at least one example embodiment, the receiving area 120 can be disposed adjacent to a terminal 122 of the pole saw 100. The terminal 122 is configured to connect with the power source 118 and provide power from the power source 118 to the power system of the pole saw 100 that drives the motor 200. The terminal 122 can include an electrical contact 124 that mates with a corresponding electrical contact of the power source 118 to complete an electrical circuit between the power source 118 and the power system of the pole saw 100. The terminal 122 can also include an engagement structure 126 that is configured to mechanically couple the power source 118 to the pole saw 100. The power source 118 can translate from a first position into the receiving area 120 until the power source 118 is electrically coupled to the terminal 122 at a second position within the receiving area 120.

[0042] In at least one example embodiment, the pole saw 100 includes a protective feature that extends around at least a portion of the receiving area 120 to protect the power source 118 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 housing 104 and extend in a rearward direction from a rear end 134 of the housing 104. The guard 132 may also serve as a handle at the rear end 134 of the pole saw for gripping by an operator. In at least one example embodiment, the guard 132 may define the rearmost end of the pole saw 100. In another example embodiment, the guard 132 may be formed by two separate components (such as a first component 132A and a second component 132B) coupled together. For example, the first component 132A and the second component 132B may each extend from the housing 104 and meet at the centerline of the pole saw 100. The first component 132A and the second component 132B may each be coupled to the housing 104 and coupled together by a fastener (not shown). In some example embodiments, the first component 132A and the second component 132B may be reflectively symmetrical about the centerline of the pole saw 100 , or substantially reflectively symmetrical about the centerline of the pole saw 100 .

[0043] In at least one example embodiment, the pole saw 100 includes a screwdriver wrench holder 140 configured to receive a screwdriver wrench 142. The screwdriver wrench holder 140 and the screwdriver wrench 142 may be disposed in the receiving area 120 of the pole saw 100. For example, the interior of the guard 132 may include a screw holder 140, such as Figure 3A The first component 132A, the second component 132B, or both the first component 132A and the second component 132B may include a screwdriver wrench holder 140 for selectively engaging a screwdriver wrench 142. In at least one example embodiment, when the screwdriver wrench 142 is coupled to the screwdriver wrench holder 140, the entire screwdriver wrench 142 may be disposed in an area defined by the receiving area 120 and the guard 132.

[0044] In at least one example embodiment, the screwdriver wrench 142 is removable when the power supply 118 is disengaged from the receiving area 120 of the housing 104, and the screwdriver wrench 142 is inhibited from being removed from the screwdriver wrench holder 140 when the power supply 118 is disposed in the receiving area 120. When the power supply 118 is in the receiving area 120, any rotation of the screwdriver wrench 142 is achieved by contact of the screwdriver wrench 142 with the outer peripheral surface of the power supply 118. Without rotating the screwdriver wrench 142, it is impossible to remove the screwdriver wrench 142 from the screwdriver wrench holder 140. Therefore, removing the screwdriver wrench 142 from the screwdriver wrench holder 140 requires removing the power supply 118 from the receiving area 120 before removing the screwdriver wrench 142. In other example embodiments, the step associated with removing the screwdriver wrench 142 to inhibit the screwdriver wrench 142 from accidentally disengaging from the screwdriver wrench holder 140 may be translational rather than rotational. In other exemplary embodiments, the step of preventing the screwdriver wrench 142 from accidentally disengaging may include both translational movement and rotational movement. For example, when installed in the receiving area 120, the screwdriver wrench 142 may not be translational or rotational due to the relative placement of the power supply 118 or another object of the pole saw 100.

[0045] Figure 4 A side view of a utility vehicle including a cylindrical container according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0046] In at least one example embodiment, container 300 may be mounted on vehicle 400. Vehicle 400 may include a utility vehicle, such as a utility vehicle for tree service, landscape maintenance service, and power utility service. In at least one example embodiment, container 300 includes a pipe mounted on vehicle 400, such as a PVC pipe.

[0047] In at least one example embodiment, one or more bindings 405 are configured to secure the container 300 to the vehicle 400. For example, one or more bindings 405 may surround at least a portion of the container 300 and be secured to the vehicle 400 by one or more fasteners. The one or more fasteners may include bolts, screws, or other devices for securing the container 300 to the vehicle via the one or more bindings 405. In at least one example embodiment, the one or more bindings 405 may be evenly spaced along the length of the container 300. In other example embodiments, the one or more bindings 405 are unevenly spaced along the length of the container 300.

[0048] In at least one example embodiment, container 300 is mounted to one or more sides of vehicle 400. For example, container 300 may extend parallel to the length of the vehicle, such as Figure 4In at least one example embodiment, two or more of the containers 300 may be mounted on a vehicle 400 for receiving one or more pole saws 100 or other power tools.

[0049] Figure 5 The operation according to the embodiment of the present disclosure Figure 1 Flow chart of a method of making a pole saw.

[0050] In at least one example embodiment, a method 500 of operating a power tool, such as a pole saw 100 , includes positioning a pole tool in a container at 505 , grasping the pole tool at 510 , and translating the pole tool at 515 .

[0051] In at least one example embodiment, placing the pole tool in the container at 505 includes placing the pole saw 100 in the container 300, such as FIG. 3A to FIG. 3C The pole saw 100 includes a housing 104 that includes a motor 200, a working element 102, and a pole 106. The pole saw 100 also includes a drive shaft 205 that extends between the motor 200 and the working element 102. In addition, the pole saw 100 includes a power source 118 within a receiving area 120 of the housing 104.

[0052] In at least one example embodiment, grasping the pole tool at 510 includes grasping the rear end 134 of the pole saw 100 when the pole saw 100 is disposed in the container 300. For example, the guard 132 including the first part 132A and the second part 132B can be grasped by the operator. When the guard 132 is grasped by the operator, the pole saw 100 can be completely disposed within the container 300, such as FIG. 3B to FIG. 3C as shown in .

[0053] In at least one example embodiment, translating the pole tool at 515 includes translating the pole saw 100 from the cylindrical storage volume defined by the container 300. For example, the pole saw 100 may be translated from the cylindrical storage volume defined by the container 300 via the guard 132. The pole saw 100 may be translated in a direction parallel to the central axis 310 of the container 300. In at least one example embodiment, the pole saw 100 may be translated in a first direction such that the pole saw 100 is translated from the cylindrical storage volume defined by the container 300. FIG. 3B to FIG. 3C The fully inserted position shown in Figure 3A 300 and removed from the container 300. In at least one example embodiment, the cylindrical storage volume of the container 300 can have a diameter of no greater than about 6 inches. Additionally, the pole saw 100 can fit within the cylindrical storage volume in a fully assembled state.

[0054] In at least one example embodiment, the method 500 further includes replacing the pole saw 100 within the container 300. The pole saw can be translated into the cylindrical storage volume of the container 300 in a direction parallel to the central axis 310 of the container 300. For example, the pole saw 100 can be inserted into the container 300 and translated in a second direction opposite to the first direction such that the pole saw 100 is moved from Figure 3A The partial insertion position shown in the figure is moved to FIG. 3B to FIG. 3C The pole saw 100 can be translated in the second direction via the guard 132 .

[0055] Further aspects of the present invention are provided by one or more of the following embodiments:

[0056] A power tool includes a housing having an electric motor, a working element, and a drive shaft extending between the electric motor and the working element. The power tool is configured to fit within a cylinder having a diameter no greater than 6 inches when the power tool is in a fully assembled state.

[0057] A power tool according to any one or more of the embodiments, wherein a motor axis extending through a center of the electric motor is offset from a longitudinal axis extending along the drive shaft.

[0058] A power tool according to any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the motor axis is parallel to the longitudinal axis.

[0059] The power tool according to any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the longitudinal axis is configured to be parallel to a central axis extending through the cylinder.

[0060] The electric tool according to any one or more of the embodiments comprises a power source configured to supply power to the electric motor to drive the working element. The power source is adapted in the cylinder.

[0061] The power tool according to any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the power source is removably coupled to the receiving area of ​​the housing.

[0062] The power tool according to any one or more of the embodiments includes a screwdriver wrench disposed in the receiving area. The screwdriver wrench is inaccessible when the power source is coupled to the housing, and the screwdriver wrench is removable when the power source is disconnected from the housing.

[0063] According to any one or more of the embodiments of the electric tool, the working element comprises: a working element housing; a guide plate extending from the working element housing; and a chain arranged around the guide plate. The chain is configured to be rotatably driven around the guide plate by the electric motor via a drive shaft. The working element housing, the guide plate and the chain are adapted in a cylindrical body.

[0064] The electric tool according to any one or more of the embodiments comprises a sprocket, which is disposed in a working element housing. A chain is coupled to the sprocket. The sprocket is driven by an electric motor via a drive shaft to rotate the chain.

[0065] A power tool comprising: a housing including an electric motor; a working element; a drive shaft extending along a longitudinal axis between the electric motor and the working element; and at least one rod extending along the longitudinal axis between a first end and a second end. The drive shaft is disposed within the at least one rod. The power tool fits within a cylinder having a diameter no greater than 6 inches when the power tool is in a fully assembled state. A motor axis extending through the electric motor is offset from the longitudinal axis.

[0066] The power tool according to any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the motor axis is parallel to the longitudinal axis.

[0067] The power tool according to any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the longitudinal axis is configured to be parallel to a central axis extending through the cylinder.

[0068] The power tool according to any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the at least one rod is configured to move between a retracted position and an extended position.

[0069] According to any one or more of the embodiments of the power tool, the at least one rod comprises an outer rod disposed at one of the first end or the second end and an inner rod disposed at the other of the first end or the second end. The inner rod is configured to slide longitudinally within the outer rod between a retracted position and an extended position.

[0070] The power tool according to any one or more of the embodiments comprises a clamp configured to secure the outer rod and the inner rod in a fixed position.

[0071] The power tool according to any one or more of the embodiments includes a power source removably coupled to the receiving area of ​​the housing. The power source fits within the cylinder.

[0072] The power tool according to any one or more of the embodiments includes a screwdriver wrench disposed in the receiving area. The screwdriver wrench is inaccessible when the power source is coupled to the housing, and the screwdriver wrench is removable when the power source is disconnected from the housing.

[0073] A method of using a power tool includes: disposing a pole tool in a container; grasping the pole tool at a guard disposed on a housing of the pole tool with the pole tool disposed in the container; and translating the pole tool from a cylindrical storage volume of the container via the guard in a direction parallel to a longitudinal axis of the container. The pole tool includes a housing including an electric motor, a working element, and a drive shaft extending between the electric motor and the working element. The diameter of the cylindrical storage volume is no greater than 6 inches. The pole tool is in a fully assembled state within the cylindrical storage volume.

[0074] The method according to any one or more of the embodiments, wherein a longitudinal axis extending through the drive shaft is configured to be parallel to a longitudinal axis of the container.

[0075] The method according to any one or more of the embodiments comprises replacing a rod-type tool within a container. The replacing comprises translating the rod-type tool into a cylindrical storage volume of the container via a guard in a direction parallel to a longitudinal axis of the container.

[0076] This written description uses examples including the best mode to disclose the present invention, and also enables any person skilled in the art to practice the present invention, including making and using any device or system and performing any combined method. The patentable scope of the present invention 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: a housing including an electric motor; Working components; and a drive shaft extending between the electric motor and the working element; Wherein, the power tool is configured to fit within a cylinder having a diameter no greater than 6 inches when the power tool is in a fully assembled state.

2. The electric tool according to claim 1, characterized in that: A motor axis extending through the center of the electric motor is offset from a longitudinal axis extending along the drive shaft.

3. The electric tool according to claim 2, characterized in that: The motor axis is parallel to the longitudinal axis.

4. The electric tool according to claim 2, characterized in that: The longitudinal axis is configured to be parallel to a central axis extending through the cylinder.

5. The electric tool according to claim 1, characterized in that: The power tool further includes a power source configured to supply power to the electric motor to drive the working element, wherein the power source is adapted within the cylinder.

6. The electric tool according to claim 5, characterized in that: The power source is removably coupled to the receiving area of ​​the housing.

7. The electric tool according to claim 6, characterized in that: The electric tool further comprises: a screwdriver wrench disposed in the receiving area; wherein the screwdriver wrench is inaccessible when the power source is coupled to the housing; and Wherein, when the power supply is detached from the housing, the screwdriver wrench is removable.

8. The electric tool according to claim 1, characterized in that: The working elements include: Working element housing; a guide plate extending from the working element housing; and a chain, the chain being arranged around the guide plate; wherein the chain is configured to be rotatably driven around the guide plate by the electric motor via the drive shaft; and Wherein, the working element housing, the guide plate and the chain are adapted in the cylinder.

9. The electric tool according to claim 8, characterized in that: The electric tool further comprises: a sprocket, the sprocket being disposed in the working element housing; wherein the chain is coupled to the sprocket; and Wherein, the sprocket is driven by the electric motor via the drive shaft to rotate the chain.

10. An electric tool, characterized in that: The electric tool comprises: a housing including an electric motor; Working components; a drive shaft extending along a longitudinal axis between the electric motor and the working element; and at least one rod extending along the longitudinal axis between a first end and a second end, the drive shaft being disposed within the at least one rod; wherein the power tool fits within a cylinder having a diameter no greater than 6 inches when the power tool is in a fully assembled state; and Wherein a motor axis extending through the electric motor is offset from the longitudinal axis.

11. The electric tool according to claim 10, characterized in that: The motor axis is parallel to the longitudinal axis.

12. The electric tool according to claim 10, characterized in that: The longitudinal axis is configured to be parallel to a central axis extending through the cylinder.

13. The electric tool according to claim 10, characterized in that: The at least one rod is configured to move between a retracted position and an extended position.

14. The electric tool according to claim 10, characterized in that: The at least one rod comprises: an outer rod disposed at one of the first end or the second end; and an inner rod disposed at the other of the first end or the second end; Wherein, the inner rod is configured to slide longitudinally within the outer rod between a retracted position and an extended position.

15. The electric tool according to claim 14, characterized in that: The power tool also includes a clamp configured to secure the outer rod and the inner rod at a fixed position.

16. The electric tool according to claim 10, characterized in that: The power tool also includes a power source removably coupled to the receiving area of ​​the housing, wherein the power source fits within the cylinder.

17. The electric tool according to claim 16, characterized in that: The electric tool further comprises: a screwdriver wrench disposed in the receiving area; wherein the screwdriver wrench is inaccessible when the power source is coupled to the housing; and Wherein, when the power supply is detached from the housing, the screwdriver wrench is removable.

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