Powered fastener driver

Abstract

A powered fastener driver is disclosed that includes a housing defining a cylinder support portion having a cylinder, and a motor housing portion. The driver includes a piston and a driver blade. The piston is movable within the cylinder from a top dead center (TDC) position to a bottom dead center (BDC) position, wherein the vane is attached to the piston to drive the fastener. The driver includes a lifter for moving the piston and the vane in unison from the BDC position toward the TDC position. The driver includes: a front end piece from which the fastener is discharged; a motor provided in the motor housing portion; a fan coupled to the motor to receive torque from the motor to cause the fan to generate an airflow; and a conduit for directing the airflow to at least one of: directing the airflow out of the cylinder to remove debris and / or prevent debris from accumulating in the cylinder support portion of the housing; or directing airflow toward the cylinder to cool the cylinder.

Description

[0001] Cross - reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 642,107, filed on May 3, 2024; U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 614,032, filed on December 22, 2023; and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 512,216, filed on July 6, 2023, the entire contents of all of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical field

[0003] This disclosure relates to cordless power tools, and more particularly to power fastener drivers. Background art

[0004] Power fastener drivers are used to eject fasteners (e.g., nails or staples) into a workpiece, sometimes generating dust and / or debris that can enter the fastener driver and impede its operation. Summary of the utility model

[0005] In one aspect, the present utility model provides a power fastener driver, which includes: a housing that defines a cylinder support portion and a motor housing portion; and a cylinder located within the cylinder support portion. The power fastener driver includes a piston and a driver blade. The piston is movable within the cylinder from a top dead center (TDC) position to a bottom dead center (BDC) position. The driver blade is attached to the piston for moving along a drive axis with the piston from the TDC position towards the BDC position to drive a fastener into a workpiece. The power fastener driver includes a lifter that is operable to move the piston and the driver blade uniformly from the BDC position towards the TDC position. The power fastener driver includes: a front end member that extends from the housing and through which the fastener is ejected; a motor disposed in the motor housing portion; a fan coupled to the motor to receive torque therefrom, causing the fan to rotate and generate an air flow; and a conduit for directing the air flow to at least one of the following: directing the air flow away from the cylinder to remove debris and / or prevent debris from accumulating in the cylinder support portion of the housing; or directing the air flow towards the cylinder to cool the cylinder.

[0006] In some embodiments, the conduit is at least partially defined outside the housing.

[0007] In some embodiments, the conduit includes an inlet defined in the motor housing portion and an outlet defined in the cylinder support portion and in fluid communication with the inlet.

[0008] In some embodiments, the cylinder is an inner cylinder, and the power fastener driver further includes an external storage cylinder in which compressed gas is stored. The inner cylinder is in fluid communication with the compressed gas in the external storage cylinder at a position above the piston to apply pressure to the piston when in the TDC position. An annular intermediate chamber is formed between the bottom portion of the inner cylinder and a buffer member. A passage connects the annular intermediate chamber to the external storage cylinder, and a check valve is positioned in the passage.

[0009] In some embodiments, the power fastener driver further includes an opening in the bottom of the cylinder that provides a clearance for discharging air from the cylinder in response to the piston moving from the TDC position to the BDC position, and a baffle configured to redirect at least a first portion of the discharged air around the cylinder for cooling.

[0010] In one aspect, the present utility model provides a power fastener driver including: a housing that defines a cylinder support portion and a motor housing portion; and a cylinder located within the cylinder support portion. The power fastener driver includes a piston and a driver blade. The piston is movable within the cylinder from a top dead center (TDC) position to a bottom dead center (BDC) position. The driver blade is attached to the piston for moving along a drive axis with the piston from the TDC position toward the BDC position to drive a fastener into a workpiece. The power fastener driver includes a lifter operable to move the piston and the driver blade uniformly from the BDC position toward the TDC position. The power fastener driver includes: a front end member extending from the housing through which the fastener is discharged; and a motor disposed in the motor housing portion. An air flow is generated when the piston moves from the TDC position to the BDC position, and the air flow is directed toward the cylinder to cool the cylinder.

[0011] In some embodiments, the power fastener driver further includes an opening in the bottom of the cylinder that provides a clearance for discharging the air flow from the cylinder in response to the piston moving from the TDC position to the BDC position, and a baffle configured to redirect at least a first portion of the discharged air flow around the cylinder for cooling.

[0012] In one aspect, the present utility model provides a power - type fastener driver, which includes: a housing that defines a cylinder support portion and a motor housing portion; and a cylinder located within the cylinder support portion. The power - type fastener driver includes a buffer member located within the cylinder. The power - type fastener driver includes a piston that is movable within the cylinder from a top dead center (TDC) position to a bottom dead center (BDC) position. The piston impacts the buffer member at the BDC position. The power - type fastener driver includes a driver blade attached to the piston for moving along a drive axis from the TDC position towards the BDC position with the piston to drive a fastener into a workpiece. The power - type fastener driver includes: a lifter operable to move the piston and the driver blade uniformly from the BDC position towards the TDC position; a front end member extending from the housing through which the fastener is discharged; a motor disposed in the motor housing portion; and a heat conductor disposed between the buffer member and the cylinder.

[0013] In some embodiments, the cylinder is an inner cylinder, and the power - type fastener driver further includes an external storage cylinder in which compressed gas is stored. The inner cylinder is in fluid communication with the compressed gas in the external storage cylinder at a position above the piston to apply pressure to the piston when at the TDC position. An annular intermediate chamber is formed between the bottom portion of the inner cylinder and the buffer member, and the heat conductor fills the annular intermediate chamber.

[0014] In one aspect, the present utility model provides a power - type fastener driver, which includes a housing that defines a cylinder support portion and a motor housing portion. The power - type fastener driver includes an external storage cylinder located within the cylinder support portion and containing pressurized gas therein. The external storage cylinder includes an outer surface. The power - type fastener driver includes an inner cylinder in fluid communication with the external storage cylinder. The power - type fastener driver includes a piston that is movable within the inner cylinder from a top dead center (TDC) position to a bottom dead center (BDC) position. The power - type fastener driver includes a driver blade attached to the piston for moving along a drive axis from the TDC position towards the BDC position with the piston to drive a fastener into a workpiece. The power - type fastener driver includes a lifter operable to move the piston and the driver blade uniformly from the BDC position towards the TDC position. The power - type fastener driver includes: a front end member extending from the housing through which the fastener is discharged; and a motor disposed in the motor housing portion. The outer surface includes a first surface area portion and a second surface area portion. The second surface area portion of the outer surface includes a finish coating visible through an opening in the housing. The first surface area portion of the outer surface has no finish.

[0015] Other features and aspects of the present invention will become apparent by considering the following detailed description and accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] Figure 1 is an isometric view of a powered fastener driver according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The power fastener driver is Figure 1 A cross-sectional view taken at section 2-2 in FIG.

[0018] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 The power fastener driver is Figure 1 A cross-sectional view taken at section 3-3 in FIG.

[0019] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 The power fastener driver is Figure 1 A cross-sectional view taken at section 4-4 in FIG.

[0020] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 An isometric view of a first housing portion of a powered fastener driver.

[0021] Figure 6 is an isometric view of an embodiment of a cylinder assembly for use with a powered fastener driver.

[0022] Figure 7 It passes through Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of section 7-7 of the cylinder assembly of , illustrating a check valve positioned in the passage to supplement pressure in the fastener driver.

[0023] Figure 8 yes Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of the cylinder assembly through section 8-8 shows the pressure relief valve.

[0024] Figure 9A is a top view of an embodiment of a fan and baffle for use in a powered fastener driver.

[0025] Figure 9B yes Figure 9A Isometric view of the fan and baffle.

[0026] Figure 10 Is has Figure 6 A side view of an embodiment of a powered fastener driver having a cylinder assembly including an auxiliary fan positioned below the cylinder to generate a cooling airflow around the cylinder.

[0027] Figure 11 is a side view of an embodiment of a power fastener driver having a Figure 6 cylinder assembly, including an auxiliary fan located behind the cylinder to cause a cooling air flow around the cylinder.

[0028] Figure 12 is a side view of an embodiment of a power fastener driver having a Figure 6 cylinder assembly, including an auxiliary fan driven by a lifting assembly to produce a cooling air flow around the cylinder.

[0029] Figure 13 is an isometric view of a power fastener driver according to another embodiment of the present utility model.

[0030] Figure 14 is Figure 13 an isometric view of a power fastener driver in which a plurality of parts are removed.

[0031] Figure 15 is Figure 13 an end view of an external storage chamber cylinder of a power fastener driver.

[0032] Figure 16 is an isometric view of an embodiment of an external storage chamber cylinder for use with a power fastener driver.

[0033] Figure 17 is Figure 16 an end view of an external storage chamber cylinder.

[0034] Figure 18 is Figure 13 an isometric view of a frame of a power fastener driver.

[0035] Before explaining in detail any embodiment of the present utility model, it should be understood that the application of the present utility model is not limited to the details of the component construction and arrangement set forth in the following description or shown in the following drawings. The present utility model is capable of having other embodiments and of being practiced or carried out in various ways. Detailed Description

[0036] Figure 1Shows a gas spring powered fastener driver 10 that is operable to drive fasteners (e.g., nails, staples, brads, etc.) into a workpiece. The housing 14 includes a cylinder support portion 18, a motor housing portion 22 that extends laterally from the bottom end of the cylinder support portion 18, and a handle portion 26 that extends intermediate and away from the cylinder support portion 18. In the illustrated embodiment, the cylinder support portion 18, the motor housing portion 22, and the handle portion 26 are defined by cooperating first and second clamshell halves 30a and 30b (i.e., a first housing portion and a second housing portion).

[0037] The first and second clamshell halves 30a and 30b are joined together at a seam 34 by fasteners 38. The first clamshell half 30a includes an air inlet opening 42 that is located on a battery receptacle portion 46 of the housing 14. The inlet opening 42 includes a filter (not shown) such that the air entering the fastener driver 10 is free of dust debris. In other words, the air entering the fastener driver 10 is filtered air. The battery receptacle portion 46 extends between the motor housing portion 22 and the handle portion 26. The battery receptacle portion 46 includes a battery receptacle 50 that is configured to receive a battery pack (not shown). The second clamshell half 30b includes an air inlet (not shown) that is located on the battery receptacle portion 46. The air inlet opening 42 is formed in the shape of a slot and is in communication with the motor housing 22 via the battery receptacle portion 46.

[0038] The battery receptacle portion 46 of the housing 14 supports a printed circuit board assembly (PCBA, not shown) and allows air to enter the housing 14 from the external environment via the inlet opening 42. The inlet opening 42 is positioned on the battery receptacle portion 46 such that the air entering the battery receptacle portion 46 flows across the PCBA. The PCBA may include a plurality of semiconductor switching elements (e.g., MOSFETs, IGBTs, etc.) that may increase the temperature of the PCBA. The position of the inlet opening 42 is selected such that the incoming air passes across the PCBA to reduce the temperature of the PCBA (i.e., cool the PCBA). In other embodiments, the inlet opening 42 may be located on the bottom 54 and / or sidewall 58 of the motor housing 22. In other embodiments, the inlet opening 42 may be located on the top 62 of the battery receptacle portion 46. In other embodiments, the inlet opening 42 may include a plurality of inlets located on each of the clamshell halves 30a, 30b.

[0039] When the battery pack is attached to the battery receptacle 50, the battery pack supplies current to the PCBA. The battery pack can be an 18-volt rechargeable power tool battery pack. The battery pack can include a plurality of battery cells having, for example, a lithium (Li), lithium-ion (Li-ion), or other lithium-based chemical composition. For example, the battery cells can have a chemical composition of lithium cobalt (Li-Co), lithium manganese (Li-Mn) spinel, or Li-Mn nickel. In such an embodiment, each battery cell can have a nominal voltage of, for example, about 3.6V, 4.0V, or 4.2V. In other embodiments, the battery cells can have a nickel cadmium, nickel metal hydride, or lead acid battery chemical composition. In additional embodiments, the battery pack can include fewer or more battery cells, and / or the battery cells can have different nominal voltages. In yet another embodiment, the battery pack can be a dedicated battery (partially or fully) housed within the fastener driver 10. The battery pack can also be configured to be used with other cordless power tools, such as drills, screwdrivers, grinders, wrenches, and saws.

[0040] Figure 2 The fastener driver 10 is shown, which includes a motor 66 supported in a motor housing 22 via an intermediate motor housing 70. The motor housing 70 is cylindrical and is disposed between the motor 66 and the motor housing 22. The motor 66 includes a stator 74, a rotor (not shown), and a drive shaft (not shown) coupled to the rotor. The fastener driver 10 includes a fan 82 positioned in the motor housing portion 22 and rotated by the drive shaft. The fan 82 is in fluid communication with an air inlet opening 42. A filter (not shown) is located upstream relative to the fan 82.

[0041] Figure 3Shows the gas spring power mechanism of the fastener driver 10. The first housing part 30a and the second housing part 30b additionally support an external storage chamber cylinder 86 (i.e., external storage cylinder) located within the cylinder support part 18. The fastener driver 10 includes an inner cylinder 90 located within the external storage chamber cylinder 86. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the cylinders 86, 90 is made of aluminum. The inner cylinder 90 supports a movable piston 94 positioned within the cylinder 90. The fastener driver 10 further includes a driver blade 98 that is attached to and movable with the piston 94. The fastener driver 10 does not require an external air pressure source, but rather the external storage chamber cylinder 86 includes a pressurized gas that is in fluid communication with the cylinder 90. In the illustrated embodiment, the cylinder 90 and the movable piston 94 are positioned within the storage chamber cylinder 86. The fastener driver 10 further includes a fill valve (not shown) coupled to the storage chamber cylinder 86. When connected to a source of compressed gas, the fill valve allows the storage chamber cylinder 86 to be refilled with compressed gas if any leakage has occurred previously. For example, the fill valve can be configured as a Schrader valve.

[0042] The cylinder 90 and the driver blade 98 define a drive axis 102. During the drive cycle, the driver blade 98 and the piston 94 can move consistently between the top dead center (TDC) position ( Figure 3 ) and the driven position or bottom dead center (BDC) position. The fastener driver 10 further includes a lift assembly 106 having a lifter 110 that is rotated by a motor 66 and moves the driver blade 98 from the driven position toward the TDC position. A transmission (not shown) provides torque from the motor 66 to the lifter 110. The transmission can be a planetary transmission having a single stage or a multi-stage planetary transmission including any number of planetary gear stages. The lifter 110 is formed by two plates 114a, 114b and includes a plurality of drive members 118 that extend between the plates 114a, 114b. The drive members 118 can sequentially engage the driver blade 98 to lift the driver blade 98 from the driven position toward the TDC position.

[0043] In operation, by energizing the motor 66, the lift assembly 106 drives the piston 94 and the driver blade 98 toward the TDC position. As the piston 94 and the driver blade 98 are driven toward the TDC position, the gas above the piston 94 and the gas within the storage chamber cylinder 86 are compressed. Before reaching the TDC position, the motor 66 is deactivated and the piston 94 and the driver blade 98 are held in a ready position between the TDC position and the BDC position until the user activates the trigger 132 ( Figure 1) and is released. When released, the compressed gas above the piston 94 and within the storage chamber cylinder 86 drives the piston 94 and the driver blade 98 to the driven position, thereby driving the fastener into the workpiece. The fastener driver 10 thus operates on the gas spring principle by utilizing the lifting assembly 106 and the piston 94 to further compress the gas within the cylinder 90 and the storage chamber cylinder 86. Further details regarding the structure and operation of the fastener driver 10 are provided below.

[0044] Before initiating the firing cycle, the driver blade 98 is held in the ready position, where the piston 94 is near top dead center within the cylinder 90. More specifically, the first drive member 118' on the lifter 110 engages the lowest tooth 122' among the axially spaced lifting teeth 122 on the driver blade 98. At approximately the same time the trigger 132 is pulled to initiate the firing cycle, the motor 66 is activated to rotate the lifter 110 in a counterclockwise direction within the Figure 3 frame of reference, thereby shifting the driver blade 98 upward a short distance past the ready position (to the TDC position of the driver blade 98) before the lowest tooth 122' on the driver blade 98 slides away from the first drive member 118'. Thereafter, the piston 94 and the driver blade 98 are pushed downward toward the driven position by the expanding gas within the cylinder 90 and the storage chamber cylinder 86. As the driver blade 98 is shifted toward the driven position, the motor 66 remains activated to continue rotating the lifter 110 counterclockwise.

[0045] When the fastener is driven into the workpiece, the piston 94 impacts the buffer 126 to rapidly decelerate the piston 94 and the driver blade 98, ultimately stopping the piston 94 at the driven position or the BDC position. In the illustrated embodiment, the buffer 126 is made of rubber. Shortly after the driver blade 98 reaches the driven position, the first drive member among the drive members 118 on the lifter 110 engages the uppermost lifting tooth 122 on the driver blade 98, and the continued counterclockwise rotation of the lifter 110 lifts the driver blade 98 and the piston 94 toward the ready position.

[0046] Referring to Figure 1 and Figure 3 , the external storage chamber cylinder 86 includes an outer surface 128. The outer surface 128 includes a first surface area portion A1 and a second surface area portion A2. The first surface area portion A1 is best shown in Figure 3 and is surrounded by the first clamshell half 30a and the second clamshell half 30b. In other words, the first surface area portion A1 is hidden from the user because the first clamshell half 30a and the second clamshell half 30b cover the first surface area portion A1. The first surface area portion A1 accounts for between 70% and 100% of the total surface area of the external storage chamber cylinder 86. The second surface area portion A2 is in Figure 1is best shown and not surrounded by the first clamshell half 30a and the second clamshell half 30b. In other words, the second surface area portion A2 is visible to the user because the first clamshell half 30a and the second clamshell half 30b do not cover the second surface area portion A2. Specifically, there are openings 129 in the first clamshell half 30a and the second clamshell half 30b. The second surface area portion A2 is between 0% and 30% of the total surface area of the external storage chamber cylinder 86. In some embodiments of the fastener driver 10, the second surface area portion A2 includes a finish coating (e.g., powder coating, liquid paint, anodization, etc.) to enhance the visual appearance of the exposed second surface area portion A2, while the first surface area portion A1 does not have such a finish coating (e.g., no finish).

[0047] Applying a finish coating to one or more of the first surface area portion A1 and the second surface area portion A2 can affect the thermal properties (e.g., thermal conductivity, heat convection) of the external storage chamber cylinder 86. In the illustrated embodiment, the first surface area portion A1 does not have a finish coating; thus, the original aluminum material (e.g., bare aluminum) of the external storage chamber cylinder 86 is visible (behind the clamshell halves 30a, 30b). In contrast, in the case where an added finish coating (e.g., powder coating) is applied to the second surface area portion A2, the total thermal conductivity of the external storage chamber cylinder 86 is reduced because the finish coating itself can act as a thermal insulator and reduce heat dissipation from the external storage chamber cylinder 86. Thus, it is desirable to minimize the amount of the surface area of the external storage chamber cylinder 86 that has a finish coating, such as in the illustrated embodiment of the fastener driver 10, where only the visible portion A2 of the cylinder 86 has a finish coating applied to enhance its visual appearance.

[0048] In the illustrated embodiment, the difference in the conductivity of the external storage chamber cylinder 86 affects the heat transfer rate Q of the buffer 126. In the illustrated embodiment, the buffer 126 is coupled to the inner cylinder 90, and the inner cylinder is coupled to the external storage chamber cylinder 86. During operation, the repeated impacts between the piston 94 and the buffer 126 cause the temperature of the buffer 126 to increase. Accordingly, heat is transferred from the buffer 126 to the inner cylinder 90 and from the inner cylinder 90 to the external storage chamber cylinder 86. Thus, the increased ability of the external storage chamber cylinder 86 to dissipate heat to the surrounding environment causes the buffer 126 to transfer more heat to the inner cylinder and the external storage chamber cylinder 86, thereby causing the temperature of the buffer 126 to decrease. The heat transfer rate Q of the buffer 缓冲件 can be modeled using the convective heat transfer equation, which states that the heat transfer rate Q of the buffer 缓冲件 is equal to the product of the convective heat transfer coefficient h, the exposed surface area A, and the temperature difference ΔT (i.e., Q 缓冲件= hAΔT). The temperature difference ΔT is the difference between the high temperature T1 and the low temperature T2.

[0049] As shown in the table below, tests were completed on an external storage chamber cylinder 86 with an outer surface finish of raw aluminum and another storage chamber cylinder 86 with an outer surface finish completely covered with a powder coating. In this test, the tool was fired empty once per second for 100 seconds. The time column in the table below represents the duration since the end of the empty firing test. The temperature column represents the temperature readings of the buffer member 126. As shown in the last row of the column, the heat transfer rate Q of the buffer member of the external storage chamber cylinder 86 with the raw aluminum finish 缓冲件 is approximately 5.8% greater than the heat transfer rate Q of the buffer member of the external storage chamber cylinder 86 with the powder-coated finish. As a result, the temperature of the buffer member 126 of the external storage chamber cylinder 86 with the raw aluminum finish is further reduced compared to that of the external storage chamber cylinder 86 with the powder-coated finish, as evidenced by the greater temperature difference ΔT (-44.4 degrees Celsius) of the raw aluminum sample compared to the temperature difference (-42 degrees Celsius) of the powder-coated sample. 缓冲件

[0050]

[0051] When the fastener is driven out of the fastener driver 10 and into the workpiece, dust and debris can be discharged from the workpiece and may enter the housing 14 of the fastener driver 10. As further explained in detail below, the fastener driver 10 includes a conduit 130 ( Figure 1 ) through which an air stream F is directed to discharge dust and debris from the housing 14 or, in some embodiments, prevent dust and debris from entering the housing 14 of the fastener driver 10.

[0052] Continuing to refer to Figure 1 , in some embodiments, the conduit 130 is supported on the outside of the housing 14. The conduit 130 includes a tube 131 that can be made of a polymer, metal, or another suitable material for containing the air stream F. In some embodiments, the conduit 130 can include fittings 134, 138 located at opposite ends of the tube 131. The fittings 134, 138 are respectively fixed to the motor housing portion 22 and the cylinder support portion 18 by fasteners 142. In some embodiments, the fittings 134, 138 can include flanges 146 through which the fasteners 142 extend.

[0053] When the drive shaft rotates, the fan 82 introduces an air stream from the external environment into the inlet opening 42, as Figure 1 ​As shown by arrow F, this is due to the fluid connection between the battery receptacle portion 46 and the motor housing portion 22. In some embodiments, the air flow F is filtered when entering the air inlet opening 42. The air flow F is caused to pass through the battery receptacle portion 46 and into the motor housing portion 22. Then the air flow F flows through the motor 66 and towards the fan 82. The air flow F cools the motor 66 as it travels towards the fan 82. The air flow F is discharged from the motor housing 22 and passes through the opening 154 in the motor housing 70 and into the fan exhaust passage 158 (i.e., the inlet) integrated into the motor housing 22. The air flow F flows from the fan exhaust passage 158 into the conduit 130.

[0054] Figure 4 A cylinder support fitting 138 coupled to the cylinder support portion 18 is shown. The air flow F is directed through the cylinder support fitting 138, the tube 131, and into the outlet passage 162 (i.e., the outlet). The outlet passage 162 is integrally formed in the first clamshell half 30a. The outlet passage 162 is formed in a cylindrical shape to match the inner diameter of the cylinder support fitting 138. In other embodiments, the outlet passage 162 may be formed in a different shape or include a different diameter (e.g., a tapered hole) from the cylinder support fitting 138. The cylinder support portion 18 includes a baffle 166 ( Figure 5 ), which is integrally formed in the first clamshell half 30a at one end of the outlet passage 162. The baffle 166 redirects the air flow F towards the outlet opening 170 in the first clamshell half 30a through which the front end piece assembly 178 extends (see also Figure 3 ). In other embodiments, the baffle 166 may include an angled portion to direct the air flow F towards other locations within the housing 14.

[0055] In other embodiments, the housing 14 may support and / or define the conduit 130 within the interior of the housing 14. In such embodiments, the conduit 130 may be integrated with the first clamshell half 30a and / or the second clamshell half 30b. In other embodiments, the fan exhaust passage 158 and the outlet passage 162 may be formed in the second clamshell half 30b, where the conduit 130 is located on the other side of the housing 14, as Figure 1 shown.

[0056] When the air flow F is discharged from the outlet opening 170, dust and debris that may have previously entered the housing 14 are discharged therefrom. Moreover, when the fan 82 rotates to generate the air flow F, the air flow F discharged from the outlet opening 170 prevents dust and debris from passing through the outlet opening 170 ( Figure 3)Enter the housing 14. Additionally, the front end component 178 may be vulnerable to dust and debris. The front end component 178 includes an opening 182 for receiving fasteners from a magazine (not shown). The magazine is oriented such that the fasteners are biased towards the opening 182 of the front end component 178. The airflow F is directed away from the housing 14 such that the airflow F is directed around the opening 182 and the magazine. The airflow F ensures protection against dust and debris entering the opening 182 and the magazine. The airflow F may be directed towards one end 186 of the front end component 178 such that dust and debris around the workpiece are cleared before driving the fastener. As described above, the airflow F is generated whenever the motor 66 is enabled because the fan 82 is coupled to the drive shaft of the motor 66. Thus, when the driver blade 98 is driven towards the driven position and returned towards the TDC position, the fan 82 is rotated by the motor 66. In other embodiments, the motor 66 may be operable to drive the fan 82 without driving the lifting assembly 106.

[0057] Figure 6 An embodiment of a cylinder assembly 190 for use with a fastener driver 10 is shown. In the embodiment shown, the cylinder assembly 190 includes an inner cylinder 90 (shown in dashed lines in Figure 6 ), and a storage chamber cylinder 86. In other embodiments, the cylinder may be comprised of a single long cylinder. In the embodiment of a single long cylinder, a storage cylinder is not necessary because the longer cylinder includes additional volume to accommodate the compressed gas that would otherwise be stored in the storage cylinder. In other embodiments, the cylinder includes a single cylinder and a storage compartment such that the compressed gas can be accommodated in the storage compartment because the single cylinder does not have available volume for storing the compressed gas. For example, the storage compartment may be an additional tank fluidly connected to the single cylinder. In conjunction with the cylinder assembly 190, the fastener driver 10 includes a baffle 194 adjacent an opening 198 in the bottom wall of the cylinder assembly 190. The opening 198 provides clearance for the driver blade 98 as the piston 94 and the driver blade 98 are driven between the TDC position and the BDC position. When the piston 94 is driven from the BDC position to the TDC position, ambient air from inside the fastener driver is drawn into the cylinder assembly 190. When released from the TDC position, the compressed gas above the piston 94 drives the piston and the driver blade 98 towards the BDC position. When the piston 94 is driven towards the BDC position, the air inside the cylinder assembly 190 and below the piston 94 is exhausted from the cylinder assembly 190 via the opening 198. The exhausted air strikes the baffle 194 and is redirected by the baffle 194 as an exhausted airflow S. A first portion of the airflow S is used to cool the cylinder assembly 190.

[0058] In some embodiments, the baffle 194 is coupled to the cylinder assembly 190. In some embodiments, the baffle 194 is integrated with the cylinder assembly 190. In some embodiments, the baffle is integrated into the cylinder support portion 18. AsFigure 6 As shown, the baffle 194 is configured to direct the discharged air toward and around the cylinder assembly 190 as an air stream S. The baffle 194 directs a first portion of the air stream S along the entire outer surface of the cylinder assembly 190. The first portion of the air stream S cools the cylinder assembly 190 because the cylinder assembly 190 may increase in temperature due to the repeated cycles of the piston 94 traveling between the TDC position and the BDC position. In other embodiments, the baffle 194 may direct the first portion of the air stream S toward the cylinder assembly 190 and the second portion toward other locations within the fastener driver 10. For example, the baffle 194 may redirect the second portion of the air stream S toward the outlet opening 170 and / or the lift assembly 106. The second portion of the air stream S that is directed toward the outlet opening 170 discharges dust and debris from the outlet opening 170( Figure 10 ). In other words, the second portion of the air stream S is directed away from the cylinder assembly 190 to clear and / or prevent debris from accumulating in the cylinder support portion (not shown). Additionally, the second portion of the air stream S discharges dust and debris from the front end piece assembly 178.

[0059] Figure 7 The cylinder assembly 190 is shown and includes an optional check valve 206 positioned within the passageway 210 between the buffer 126 and the external storage chamber cylinder 86. The check valve 206 responds to pressure when the piston 94 compresses the buffer 126. More specifically, as the piston 94 is driven from the ready position to the driven position, the piston 94 impacts the buffer 126, which seals the inner cylinder 90 to create an air reservoir or an annular intermediate chamber 214. When the driver vane 98 approaches the bottom dead center position, the intermediate chamber 214 is formed between the bottom portion of the inner cylinder 90 and the buffer 126 (and in some cases, between the buffer 126 and the piston 94). That is, when the piston 94 impacts the buffer 126, the intermediate chamber 214 is completely sealed (i.e., not fluidly connected to the external atmosphere). When the piston 94 compresses the buffer 126, an increase in pressure occurs within the intermediate chamber 214. The increase in pressure within the intermediate chamber 214 opens the check valve 206 to discharge pressurized air from the intermediate chamber 214 to the external storage chamber cylinder 86. This increased air pressure adds a small amount of pressurized air to the external storage chamber cylinder 86 through the open check valve 206, which results in a greater pressure being applied to the cylinder assembly 190, which can compensate for potential or actual air pressure losses within the fastener driver 10. Thus, the compression of the buffer 126 that occurs at the end of each firing event of the fastener driver 10 can be used to create an increase in air pressure. This obviates the need to attach a separate compressor to the cylinder 86 in order to increase the pressure on the piston 94. In effect, the additional compression of the buffer 126 and the opening of the check valve 206 form a load-following air compressor for the fastener driver 10.

[0060] By utilizing the repeated compression of the buffer member 126 by the piston 94 to supplement the pressure in the storage chamber cylinder 86, a small amount of air pressure (e.g., approximately 0.01 psi - 0.015 psi) can be added each time the buffer member 126 is compressed by the piston 94. Based on the inference of more than 1000 nails fired by the driver 10, this added pressure is approximately equal to 10 psi - 15 psi, which is 10% - 15% of the total tank pressure. Although the added pressure is relatively small compared to the total tank pressure, the added pressure facilitated by the compression of the buffer member 126 and the open check valve 206 is still sufficient to maintain adequate tank pressure even after considering pressure losses (e.g., due to permeation, entry of a small amount of debris, or mild mechanical wear).

[0061] In some cases, the operating temperature or the ambient temperature or both associated with the fastener driver 10 can increase the pressure applied to the piston 94 to the extent of the desired pressure release. In these cases, and with reference to Figure 8 , the fastener driver 10 can include a pressure release valve 218 that opens at a predetermined pressure to discharge air when the pressure in the storage chamber cylinder 86 is higher than the pressure required to properly seat the fastener, while also preventing the fastener driver 10 from absorbing more energy from the movement of the piston 94 than is needed. For example, at high temperatures, the pressure on the piston 94 can increase to the extent that air is discharged via the pressure release valve 218 to keep the fastener driver 10 within the desired pressure tolerance range. Additionally, at low operating temperatures of the fastener driver 10, the on-board compressor defined by the compression of the buffer member 126 and the opening of the check valve 206 (i.e., when the buffer member 126 seals the inner cylinder 90, utilizing the air reservoir formed by the buffer member 126) helps to repressurize the cylinder assembly 190 to maintain the performance of the fastener driver 10.

[0062] In some embodiments, the fastener driver 10 optionally includes a thermal conductor 219 (e.g., thermal paste or thermal grease) disposed between the buffer member 126 and the cylinder 90 (e.g., the inner cylinder). In some embodiments, the thermal paste 219 is composed of boron nitride. In some embodiments, the thermal paste 219 is composed of graphite. In some embodiments, the thermal paste 219 is silicon-based. In the illustrated embodiment, the thermal conductor 219 fills the annular intermediate chamber 214 to increase the thermal conductivity between the buffer member 126 and the inner cylinder 90. In some embodiments, the thermal paste 219 is applied in the annular intermediate chamber 214, but allows the annular intermediate chamber to be in fluid communication with the check valve 206. In other words, a portion of the annular intermediate chamber 214 can remain unfilled with the thermal paste 219 to provide an unobstructed passage to the check valve 206. By using a thermal conductor 219 (such as thermal paste) between the buffer member 126 and the cylinder 90, the heat transfer from the buffer member 126 to the cylinder 90 can be increased.

[0063] In Figure 7 the illustrated embodiment, the fastener driver 10 includes a frame 220. The frame 220 is coupled to an inner cylinder 90, and the inner cylinder 90 is coupled to an external storage chamber cylinder 86. In the illustrated embodiment, a heat conductor 219 is disposed between the buffer 126 and the frame 220. Thus, the heat conductor 219 increases the thermal conductivity between the buffer 126 and the frame 220, thereby increasing the heat transfer therebetween. The heat conductor 219 increases the heat transferred from the buffer 126 to surrounding components (e.g., the cylinder 90 and the frame 220). The increased heat transfer between the buffer 126 and the surrounding components results in a lower temperature of the buffer 126, which can increase the service life of the buffer 126.

[0064] It should be understood that some embodiments of the fastener driver 10 may combinatorially include a check valve 206 for increasing the pressure within the storage chamber cylinder 86 and a pressure release valve 218 for releasing the pressure from the storage chamber cylinder 86.

[0065] Referring Figure 8 , the pressure release valve 218 includes: a seat 222 disposed in a passage 226 of the storage chamber cylinder 86; a pin 230 disposed in the passage 226; and a spring 234 positioned between the seat 222 and the pin 230 to bias the pin 230 toward the storage chamber cylinder 86 to seal the passage 226. The seat 222 is threadedly coupled to the passage 226 via the thread in the passage 226. The seat 222 is visible from outside the fastener driver 10. The seat 222 is in fluid communication with the interior of the cylinder assembly 190 and with the surrounding environment of the fastener driver 10. The pin 230 is slidable in the passage 226 between a closed position and an open position. When the pressure of the pressurized air within the storage chamber cylinder 86 exceeds a predetermined value, the pin 230 can move from the closed position to the open position. In the closed position, the pressure of the pressurized air is at or below the predetermined value, allowing the spring 234 to bias the pin 230 away from the seat 222. In the open position, the pressure of the pressurized air within the storage chamber cylinder 86 is higher than the predetermined value, such that the pressurized air overcomes the bias of the spring 234 and biases the pin 230 toward the seat 222. In some embodiments, a refill valve 238 may be provided adjacent to the pressure release valve 218. The refill valve 238 allows a user to add pressurized air to the storage chamber cylinder 86. In some embodiments, the refill valve 238 is positioned such that the piston 94 passes over the opening of the refill valve 238 during the TDC position of the piston 94.

[0066] When the pressure in the storage chamber cylinder 86 is higher than the pressure required to properly position the fastener, the pressure relief valve 218 opens at a predetermined pressure value to discharge air, while also preventing the bumper 126 from absorbing more energy from the movement of the piston 94 than necessary. For example, at high temperatures, the pressure on the piston 94 can increase to the extent that air is discharged via the pressure relief valve 218 to operate the fastener driver 10 within a desired operating pressure range. Additionally, at low operating temperatures of the fastener driver 10, piston pumping assistance during the second stage repressurizes the cylinder 86 to maintain the fastener driver 10 within the desired operating pressure range.

[0067] Figure 9A and Figure 9B A fan 242 for use with the fastener driver 10 is shown. Compared to the fan 82, the fan 242 includes a baffle 244 having a tangential opening 246. The baffle 244 surrounds the fan 242. The fan 242 includes straight blades 212 that are configured to cause an air flow F via clockwise rotation relative to a reference frame. The tangential opening 246 includes an edge 250 that is tangent to the outer diameter of the fan 242. The tangential opening 246 also includes an edge 254 that is parallel to the tangential edge 250. The tangential opening 246 directs the air flow F away from the motor housing 70 and towards the conduit 130 ( Figure 2 ). In some embodiments, the air flow F is directed through a conduit integrated with the first clamshell half 30a and the second clamshell half 30b and towards the cylinder assembly 190, such as Figure 10 the air flow F shown.

[0068] Figure 10 Another embodiment of a fastener driver 258 is shown, where the same features as the fastener driver 10 are identified with the same reference numerals. The fastener driver 258 is similar to the fastener driver 10, and thus only the differences will be discussed. The fastener driver 258 includes a cylinder assembly 190 and a motor fan 242. The fastener driver 258 includes a first clamshell half 262a and a second clamshell half (not shown) that define an internal conduit 266 that routes the air flow F through the motor housing 22, past the lift assembly 106, and around the cylinder assembly 190. Thus, the cylinder assembly 190 is cooled by a combined air flow generated by the air flow F and the air flow S. In some embodiments, the only air flowing through the cylinder assembly 190 comes from the air flow F to cool the cylinder assembly 190. In some embodiments, the only air flowing through the cylinder assembly 190 comes from the air flow S to cool the cylinder assembly 190. In some embodiments, a portion of the air flow F is used to cool the cylinder assembly 190, while another portion of the air flow F is used to remove dust and debris from the front end piece assembly (not shown) after leaving the outlet opening 170.

[0069] Figure 11 Shows another embodiment of a fastener driver 300, where features identical to those of the fastener driver 10 are identified by the same reference numerals. The fastener driver 300 is similar to the fastener driver 10, and thus only the differences will be discussed. The fastener driver 300 includes an auxiliary fan 304 positioned behind the cylinder assembly 190. In some embodiments, the auxiliary fan 304 is supported by a first clamshell half 262a and a second clamshell half. In some embodiments, the auxiliary fan 304 is coupled to the cylinder assembly 190. The auxiliary fan 304 is powered by an electric current from the battery pack that passes through wiring (not shown) in the motor housing 22 or the handle portion 26. In the illustrated embodiment, the auxiliary fan 304 causes an air flow A (e.g., an auxiliary air flow) that pulls air around the cylinder assembly 190. In other embodiments, the direction of the air flow caused by the auxiliary fan 304 can be reversed such that the auxiliary fan 304 can discharge or "push" air around the cylinder assembly 190. The air flow A cools the cylinder assembly 190.

[0070] Figure 12 Shows another embodiment of a fastener driver 400, where features identical to those of the fastener driver 10 are identified by the same reference numerals. The fastener driver 400 is similar to the fastener driver 10, and thus only the differences will be discussed. The fastener driver 400 includes an auxiliary fan 404 positioned adjacent to the lifting assembly 106. The auxiliary fan 404 is coaxial with the lifter axis L defined by the lifting assembly 106 and generates an air flow B that is transverse to the lifter axis L and around the cylinder assembly 190. In some embodiments, a baffle (not shown) can be positioned around or near the auxiliary fan 404 to redirect the air flow B around the cylinder assembly 190. The auxiliary fan 404 can receive torque from the lifting assembly 106 to rotate the auxiliary fan 404, or the auxiliary fan 404 can be powered by an electric current, as in the case of the auxiliary fan 304 described above.

[0071] Figure 13 Shows another embodiment of a fastener driver 500, where features identical to those of the fastener driver 10 are identified by the same reference numerals. The fastener driver 500 is similar to the fastener driver 10, and thus only the differences will be discussed. The fastener driver 500 includes an external storage chamber cylinder 504 ( Figure 14 ), which is supported by the cylinder support portions 18 of a first clamshell half 508a and a second clamshell half 508b. The first clamshell half 508a and the second clamshell half 508b include a first vent 512 and a second vent 516. The first vent 512 and the second vent 516 include a plurality of openings 520 separated by a plurality of vanes 524. The first vent 512 is arranged to be closer to the front end piece assembly 178 relative to the second vent 516.

[0072] Figure 14 shows an external storage chamber cylinder 504 that includes a plurality of fins 528 that extend parallel to a longitudinal axis C of the external storage chamber cylinder 504 along an outer surface of the external storage chamber cylinder 504( Figure 15 ). Each of the fins 528 includes a length L. In the illustrated embodiment, the length L is approximately 100 millimeters. In some embodiments, the length L is less than 100 millimeters. In some embodiments, the length L is greater than 100 millimeters. In some embodiments, the fins 528 extend radially outward from the outer surface of the external storage chamber cylinder 504 relative to the longitudinal axis C of the external storage chamber cylinder 504. In the illustrated embodiment, the fins 528 are located at one end of the external storage chamber cylinder 504 that connects to the inner cylinder 90 because this end of the external storage chamber cylinder 504 experiences heat transferred from repeated impacts between the piston 94 and the buffer 126. In some embodiments, the fins 528 extend to an opposite distal end of the external storage chamber cylinder 504 to maximize the surface area across which heat transfer can occur. In some embodiments, the fins 528 are disposed on a surface of the inner cylinder 90. The plurality of fins 528 function as a heat sink. The fins 528 are received between a first vent 512 and a second vent 516 within a first clamshell half 508a and a second clamshell half 508b. The first clamshell half 508a and the second clamshell half 508b completely enclose the fins 528. In some embodiments, the fastener driver 500 optionally includes a baffle 194 to redirect an air flow S along the outer surface of the external storage chamber cylinder 504. Specifically, the air flow S will be between the first clamshell half 508a and the second clamshell half 508b and the fins 528. In some embodiments, the fastener driver 500 optionally includes an auxiliary fan 304 to induce an air flow A that creates an air flow between the first clamshell half 508a and the fins 528. In some embodiments, heat transfer can occur via natural convection with the fins 528, and in other embodiments, heat transfer can occur via forced convection (e.g., using a fan to induce an air flow through and / or across the fins 528) with the fins 528.

[0073] Figure 15Shows fins 528 arranged around the outer circumference of the external storage chamber cylinder 504. In the illustrated embodiment, the fins 528 include a total of 24 fins, which are angularly offset from each other by an angle Φ with respect to the longitudinal axis C. In the illustrated embodiment, the angle Φ is 13.5 degrees. In some embodiments, the angle Φ is between 1 degree and 180 degrees. Specifically, in some embodiments, the angle Φ is between 10 degrees and 20 degrees. In some embodiments, the fins 528 include fewer than 24 fins. In some embodiments, the fins 528 include more than 24 fins. In some embodiments, the fins 528 are unevenly distributed around the longitudinal axis C. In other words, some adjacent fins 528 may not be separated by the same angle Φ. Each of the fins 528 includes a thickness T. In the illustrated embodiment, the thickness T is 2 millimeters. In some embodiments, the thickness T is between 1 millimeter and 25 millimeters. In some embodiments, some of the fins 528 each include a different thickness from each other. Each of the fins 528 includes a height H. In the illustrated embodiment, the height H is approximately 10 millimeters. In some embodiments, the height is less than 10 millimeters. In some embodiments, the height H is greater than 10 millimeters. In the illustrated embodiment, the fill valve 529 interrupts the fins 528. In other words, two of the fins 528 are angularly offset by a larger angle ω, so there is space for the fill valve 529. In some embodiments, the fill valve 529 is configured as a Schrader valve. Optionally, the external storage chamber cylinder 504 may include a pressure relief valve (e.g., pressure relief valve 218) in parallel with the fill valve 529.

[0074] Figure 16 and Figure 17 Shows another external storage chamber cylinder 504a that is interchangeable with the external storage chamber cylinder 504. Compared with the external storage chamber cylinder 504, the external storage chamber cylinder 504a includes a plurality of fins 530 that are arranged around the entire outer circumference of the external storage chamber cylinder 504a. Specifically, the fill valve 529 does not interrupt the fins 530. In other words, the fill valve 529 does not axially overlap with the fins 530 along the axis C. In the illustrated embodiment, the length L of each of the fins 530 is approximately 10 millimeters, the thickness T is 2 millimeters, and the height H is approximately 4 millimeters.

[0075] For fins 528, 530, the length L, thickness T, and height H can be adjusted such that the surface area of fins 504, 530 is increased or decreased according to the cooling requirements of the fastener driver 500. For example, fin 530 provides a smaller surface area than fin 528. A smaller surface area is equivalent to a smaller and more compact profile of the external storage chamber cylinder 504. Additionally, the spacing S between the fins in fins 528 and 530 can be adjusted according to the thickness T, angle Φ, and the total number of fins. The spacing S is important for fins 528, 530 because it affects the heat dissipation efficiency of fins 528, 530.

[0076] The fastener driver 500 includes a frame 532 that is coupled to the inner cylinder 90 and is configured to support the lifting assembly 106 between parallel flanges 536 that extend downward from the cylinder support portion 538 of the frame ( Figure 14 and Figure 18 ). The frame is interchangeable with frame 220 ( Figure 7 ). The frame 532 is located within the first clamshell half 508a and the second clamshell half 508b. The frame 532 includes a slot 540 through which the driver blade 98 extends. The fastener driver 500 includes a Peltier chip 544 that is mounted to the frame 532. In the illustrated embodiment, the Peltier chip 544 is mounted to one of the flanges 536. Since the Peltier chip 544 is mounted to the frame 532, the frame 532 is cooled by the Peltier chip, which increases the temperature difference between the frame 532 and the inner cylinder 90. The temperature difference promotes heat transfer between the inner cylinder 90 and the frame 532, thereby removing heat from the inner cylinder 90. Heat is also transferred from the external storage chamber 504 to the inner cylinder 90 and the frame 532. In other words, the Peltier chip 544 increases the amount of heat conducted by the frame 532 from the cylinders 90, 504. In the illustrated embodiment, the Peltier chip 544 is coupled to a printed circuit board (PCB 548; Figure 14 ) that supplies current to the Peltier chip 544 from the battery pack 552. Additionally, the PCB 548 includes a controller that is programmed to control the operation of the Peltier chip 544.

[0077] Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to certain preferred embodiments, variations and modifications exist within the scope and spirit of one or more of the independent aspects of the described invention.

[0078] The various features of the present disclosure are set forth in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A power-operated fastener driver, characterized in that, Comprising: A housing that defines a cylinder support portion and a motor housing portion; A cylinder located within the cylinder support portion; A piston capable of moving within the cylinder from a top dead center (TDC) position to a bottom dead center (BDC) position; A driver blade attached to the piston for moving along a drive axis together with the piston from the TDC position towards the BDC position to drive a fastener into a workpiece; A lifter capable of being operated to move the piston and the driver blade together from the BDC position towards the TDC position; A front end member extending from the housing, through which the fastener is discharged; A motor disposed within the motor housing portion; A fan coupled to the motor to receive torque therefrom, causing the fan to rotate and generate an air flow; And A duct configured to direct the air flow towards at least one of the following: Directing the air flow towards the front end member to remove debris and / or prevent debris from accumulating in the cylinder support portion of the housing, or Directing the air flow towards the cylinder to cool the cylinder.

2. The power fastener driver according to claim 1, wherein The duct is disposed within the interior of the housing.

3. The power fastener driver according to claim 1, wherein The duct is integrated with the housing.

4. The powered fastener driver according to claim 1, wherein, The duct is at least partially defined outside the housing.

5. The power fastener driver according to claim 4, wherein, The duct includes an inlet defined within the motor housing portion and an outlet defined within the cylinder support portion and in fluid communication with the inlet.

6. The power fastener driver according to claim 1, wherein The cylinder support portion includes a baffle configured to direct the air flow towards the front end member.

7. The powered fastener driver according to claim 6, wherein, The baffle is integrated with the housing.

8. The power fastener driver according to claim 1, wherein The air flow is caused to pass through the motor housing portion to cool the motor.

9. The power-actuated fastener driver according to claim 1, wherein The housing further defines a handle portion and a battery receptacle portion disposed between the handle portion and the motor housing portion, and wherein the battery receptacle portion includes an inlet opening configured to communicate the interior of the motor housing portion with the external environment.

10. The power fastener driver according to claim 9, characterized in that, Further comprising a printed circuit board located within the battery receptacle portion, wherein the air flow is caused to pass through the battery receptacle portion to cool the printed circuit board.

11. The power fastener driver according to claim 1, wherein, Further comprising a filter located upstream of the fan.

12. The power fastener driver according to claim 1, wherein, Further comprising a baffle extending around the fan to direct the air flow to the duct.

13. The power fastener driver according to claim 1, wherein, Further comprising an auxiliary fan.

14. The power fastener driver according to claim 13, wherein, The auxiliary fan causes an auxiliary air flow configured to cool the cylinder.

15. The power fastener driver according to claim 13, wherein, The auxiliary fan is positioned behind the cylinder.

16. The power fastener driver according to claim 13, wherein, The auxiliary fan is positioned adjacent to the lifter.

17. The power fastener driver according to claim 1, wherein, Further comprising a pressure relief valve in fluid communication with the cylinder and configured to open in response to the pressure of the pressurized air within the cylinder exceeding a predetermined value.

18. The powered fastener driver according to claim 1, wherein The cylinder is an inner cylinder, and the power - actuated fastener driver further includes an external storage cylinder in which compressed gas is stored. The inner cylinder is in fluid communication with the compressed gas in the external storage cylinder at a position above the piston to apply pressure to the piston when in the TDC position. An annular intermediate chamber is formed between the bottom portion of the inner cylinder and a buffer. A passage connects the annular intermediate chamber to the external storage cylinder, and a check valve is positioned in the passage.

19. The powered fastener driver according to claim 18, wherein, The pressure increase in the annular intermediate chamber occurs in response to the piston striking the buffer, and the pressure increase in the annular intermediate chamber opens the check valve to discharge pressurized air from the annular intermediate chamber to the external storage cylinder.

20. The power fastener driver according to claim 1, characterized in that, Further comprising an opening in the bottom of the cylinder, the opening providing a clearance for discharging air from the cylinder in response to the piston moving from the TDC position to the BDC position, and a baffle configured to redirect at least a first portion of the discharged air around the cylinder for cooling.

21. The powered fastener driver according to claim 20, wherein, A second portion of the discharged air is directed away from the cylinder to remove debris and / or prevent debris from accumulating in the cylinder support portion of the housing.

22. A power-operated fastener driver, characterized in that, Comprising: a housing that defines a cylinder support portion and a motor housing portion; a cylinder located within the cylinder support portion; a piston capable of moving within the cylinder from a top dead center (TDC) position to a bottom dead center (BDC) position; a driver blade attached to the piston for moving along a drive axis with the piston from the TDC position toward the BDC position to drive a fastener into a workpiece; a lifter operable to move the piston and the driver blade together from the BDC position toward the TDC position; a front end member extending from the housing, the fastener being discharged from the front end member; and a motor disposed in the motor housing portion, wherein the piston is configured to generate an air flow when moving from the TDC position to the BDC position, wherein the air flow is directed toward the cylinder for cooling.

23. The power fastener driver according to claim 22, wherein, Further comprising an opening in the bottom of the cylinder, the opening providing a clearance for discharging the air flow from the cylinder in response to the piston moving from the TDC position to the BDC position, and a baffle configured to redirect at least a first portion of the discharged air flow around the cylinder for cooling.

24. The power fastener driver according to claim 23, wherein, A second portion of the discharged air flow is directed away from the cylinder to remove debris and / or prevent debris from accumulating in the cylinder support portion of the housing or on the front end member.

25. The powered fastener driver according to claim 22, wherein, Further comprising: a frame located within the housing and configured to support the lifter and the cylinder; and a Peltier sheet mounted on the frame and configured to cool the frame.

26. The powered fastener driver according to claim 22, wherein, The cylinder includes a plurality of fins that extend radially outward relative to the longitudinal axis of the cylinder.

27. The power fastener driver according to claim 26, wherein The fins are arranged completely around the outer periphery of the cylinder.

28. A power-driven fastener driver, characterized in that, Comprising: a housing that defines a cylinder support portion and a motor housing portion; a cylinder located within the cylinder support portion; A buffer member, which is located within the cylinder; A piston, which is capable of moving within the cylinder from a top dead center (TDC) position to a bottom dead center (BDC) position, and the piston impacts the buffer member at the BDC position; A driver blade, which is attached to the piston and is used to move along a drive axis together with the piston from the TDC position towards the BDC position to drive a fastener into a workpiece; A lifter, which is operable to move the piston and the driver blade uniformly from the BDC position towards the TDC position; A front end member, which extends from the housing, and the fastener is discharged from the front end member; A motor, which is disposed in the motor housing portion; And A heat conductor, which is disposed between the buffer member and the cylinder.

29. The power fastener driver according to claim 28, characterized in that, The heat conductor is a heat paste.

30. The power fastener driver according to claim 29, wherein The heat paste is composed of boron nitride.

31. The powered fastener driver according to claim 28, wherein The buffer member is composed of rubber.

32. The powered fastener driver according to claim 28, wherein, The cylinder is an inner cylinder, and the power-operated fastener driver further includes: an external storage cylinder in which compressed gas is stored; and a frame, which is coupled to the inner cylinder, wherein the inner cylinder is coupled to the external cylinder, and wherein the heat conductor is disposed between the buffer member and the frame.

33. The power fastener driver according to claim 32, wherein, Further includes a Peltier sheet, which is mounted on the frame for cooling the frame.

34. The power fastener driver according to claim 28, wherein, The cylinder is an inner cylinder, and the power-operated fastener driver further includes an external storage cylinder in which compressed gas is stored, wherein the inner cylinder is in fluid communication with the compressed gas in the external storage cylinder at a position above the piston to apply pressure to the piston when at the TDC position, wherein an annular intermediate chamber is formed between the bottom portion of the inner cylinder and the buffer member, and wherein the heat conductor fills the annular intermediate chamber.

35. A power-operated fastener driver, characterized in that, Comprises: A housing, which defines a cylinder support portion and a motor housing portion; An external storage cylinder, which is located within the cylinder support portion and in which pressurized gas is accommodated, and the external storage cylinder includes an outer surface; An inner cylinder, which is in fluid communication with the external storage cylinder; A piston, which is capable of moving within the inner cylinder from a top dead center (TDC) position to a bottom dead center (BDC) position; A driver blade, which is attached to the piston and is used to move along a drive axis together with the piston from the TDC position towards the BDC position to drive a fastener into a workpiece; A lifter, which is operable to move the piston and the driver blade uniformly from the BDC position towards the TDC position; A front end member, which extends from the housing, and the fastener is discharged from the front end member; And A motor, which is disposed in the motor housing portion; Wherein, the outer surface includes a first surface area portion and a second surface area portion; Wherein, the second surface area portion of the outer surface includes a finish coating visible through an opening in the housing, and Wherein, the first surface area portion of the outer surface does not have the finish coating.

36. The power fastener driver according to claim 35, wherein, The thermal conductivity of the external storage cylinder coinciding with the first surface area portion is greater than the thermal conductivity of the external storage cylinder coinciding with the second surface area portion.

37. The power fastener driver according to claim 35, wherein, The external storage cylinder is made of aluminum, and among them, the first surface area part is bare aluminum.

38. The power fastener driver according to claim 35, wherein, The finish coating on the second surface area part is a powder coating.

39. The power fastener driver according to claim 35, characterized in that, The housing covers the first surface area part.

40. The powered fastener driver according to claim 39, wherein, The housing does not cover the second surface area part.

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