Hedge trimmer, blade assembly and tool assembly for assembling blade assembly

Abstract

A hedge trimmer, a blade assembly and a tool assembly for assembling the blade assembly are provided. The hedge trimmer includes a housing configured such that a motor is disposed at the housing. The blade assembly extends from the housing and includes a blade member that forms a blade opening through which a fastener may extend. The retainer forms a retainer opening through which the fastener may extend. A second ridge opening at the ridge extends from the first ridge opening at the ridge. The second ridge opening forms a cross-section narrower than the first ridge opening. The fastener may extend from the first spine opening into the second spine opening. A retainer is positioned between the spine and the blade member.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to lawn and garden tools, and more specifically to hedge trimmers and systems and methods for blade assemblies, particularly to a hedge trimmer, blade assembly, and tool assembly for assembling the blade assembly. Background Technology

[0002] Hedge trimmers typically include blades that engage with the ridge using multiple fasteners. The methods and tools used to engage the blades with the ridge may require multiple tools to hold and / or rotate the fasteners to engage the blades with the ridge. Such methods and tools may also require the user to access multiple sides of the ridge and the blade, such as the top and bottom sides, possibly corresponding to the head and nut of the fasteners.

[0003] Such hedge trimmers, and the methods and systems used for their blade assemblies, can increase assembly costs and complexity. There is a need in the art for improved hedge trimmers, and methods and systems used for their blade assemblies. Furthermore, hedge trimmers, and methods and systems used for their blade assemblies that address one or more of these problems would be beneficial and advantageous. Utility Model Content

[0004] The aspects and advantages of the utility model according to this disclosure will be set forth in part in the description which follows, or may be apparent from the description or may be learned by practice of the art.

[0005] One aspect of this disclosure relates to a hedge trimmer, including a housing configured such that a motor is disposed thereon. A blade component extends from the housing. The blade component includes a blade part forming a blade opening through which a fastener can extend. A retainer forms a retainer opening through which a fastener can extend. A ridge forms a first ridge opening and a second ridge opening. The second ridge opening extends from the first ridge opening. The second ridge opening forms a narrower cross-section relative to the first ridge opening. The fastener can extend from the first ridge opening into the second ridge opening. A retainer is positioned between the ridge and the blade component.

[0006] One aspect of this disclosure relates to a method of assembling a hedge trimmer blade assembly. The method includes: placing a fastener in a fastener opening at a base fixture; placing a blade assembly on the base fixture, wherein the blade assembly opening is located above the fastener such that a neck of the fastener extends through the blade assembly opening; placing a retainer on the blade assembly, wherein a retainer opening is located above the fastener such that a neck of the fastener extends through the retainer opening; placing a ridge on the retainer, wherein a first ridge opening is located above the fastener such that a neck of the fastener is positioned through the blade assembly opening, the retainer opening, and the first ridge opening; and advancing the ridge toward a second ridge opening extending from the first ridge opening, wherein advancing the ridge toward the second ridge opening positions the neck of the fastener through the blade assembly opening, the retainer opening, and the second ridge opening.

[0007] One aspect of this disclosure relates to a blade assembly for lawn and garden tools. The blade assembly includes a blade portion forming a blade opening through which a fastener can extend. A retainer forms a retainer opening through which the fastener can extend. A ridge forms a first ridge opening and a second ridge opening. The second ridge opening extends from the first ridge opening. The second ridge opening forms a narrower cross-section relative to the first ridge opening. The fastener can extend from the first ridge opening into the second ridge opening. A retainer is positioned between the ridge and the blade portion.

[0008] One aspect of this disclosure relates to a tool assembly for assembling a blade assembly. The tool assembly includes a base forming a channel extending in the same direction as a blade component of the blade assembly. A fastener opening is formed in the channel. The fastener opening includes a base plate configured to receive a fastener of the blade assembly. The base plate is positioned in the fastener opening to allow a neck of the fastener to extend through the fastener opening. The depth of the fastener opening corresponds to an extension along the height of the base wall of the fastener. A pressing fastener is configured to be positioned above the blade component at the channel of the base. The pressing fastener is configured to engage a ridge of the blade assembly to allow translation of the fastener in the direction of the blade component.

[0009] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become more readily understood with reference to the following description and the appended claims. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the technology and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the technology. Attached Figure Description

[0010] To those skilled in the art, the complete and feasible disclosure of this invention, including the best mode for manufacturing and using the system and method, is set forth in the specification, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0011] Figure 1 A perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a hedge trimmer assembly including a blade assembly according to aspects of this disclosure is shown;

[0012] Figure 2 An exploded view of an embodiment of a blade assembly according to aspects of this disclosure is shown;

[0013] Figure 3 Aspects according to this disclosure are shown Figure 2 An exploded view of the blade assembly;

[0014] Figure 4 Aspects according to this disclosure are shown Figure 3 A perspective view of the blade assembly in the first position;

[0015] Figure 5 Aspects according to this disclosure are shown Figure 3 A perspective view of the blade assembly in the second position;

[0016] Figure 6A A perspective view of an embodiment of a fastener for a blade assembly according to aspects of this disclosure is shown;

[0017] Figure 6B Aspects according to this disclosure are shown Figure 6A A longitudinal side view of the fastener;

[0018] Figure 6C Aspects according to this disclosure are shown Figure 6A A side view of the width of the fastener;

[0019] Figure 7A A perspective view of an embodiment of a retainer for a blade assembly according to aspects of this disclosure is shown;

[0020] Figure 7B Aspects according to this disclosure are shown Figure 7A A detailed view of a portion of the retainer;

[0021] Figure 8A A perspective view of an embodiment of the ridge of a blade assembly according to aspects of this disclosure is shown;

[0022] Figure 8B Aspects according to this disclosure are shown Figure 8A A detailed view of a portion of the spine;

[0023] Figure 9 A top-bottom view is shown of an embodiment of the ridge of the blade assembly according to aspects of this disclosure;

[0024] Figure 10A top-down view of an embodiment of a blunt member of a hedge trimmer assembly according to aspects of this disclosure is shown.

[0025] Figure 11 A cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a blade assembly according to aspects of this disclosure is shown;

[0026] Figure 12 A perspective view is shown of an embodiment of a tool system according to aspects of the present disclosure and an embodiment of the steps of a method for assembling a blade assembly;

[0027] Figure 13 A perspective view of an embodiment of the steps of a tool system and a method for assembling blade assemblies according to aspects of this disclosure is shown;

[0028] Figure 14 A perspective view of an embodiment of the steps of a tool system and a method for assembling blade assemblies according to aspects of this disclosure is shown;

[0029] Figure 15 A perspective view of an embodiment of the steps of a tool system and a method for assembling blade assemblies according to aspects of this disclosure is shown;

[0030] Figure 16 A perspective view of an embodiment of the steps of a tool system and a method for assembling blade assemblies according to aspects of this disclosure is shown;

[0031] Figure 17 A perspective view illustrating an embodiment of the steps of a tool system and a method for assembling blade assemblies according to aspects of this disclosure; and

[0032] Figure 18 A flowchart outlining the steps of a method for assembling a blade assembly, according to aspects of this disclosure, is shown.

[0033] The repeated use of reference characters in this specification and drawings is intended to indicate the same or similar features or elements of this utility model. Detailed Implementation

[0034] Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of the present invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The term “exemplary” as used herein means “as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any implementation described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or superior to other implementations. Furthermore, each example is provided by way of explanation rather than limitation. In fact, those skilled in the art will understand that modifications and variations can be made to the present invention without departing from the scope or spirit of the claimed technology. For example, features shown or described as part of one embodiment may be used with another embodiment to produce yet another embodiment. Therefore, this disclosure is intended to cover such modifications and variations falling within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents. Detailed description uses numerical and alphabetic names to refer to features in the drawings. The same or similar names in the drawings and description have been used to refer to the same or similar parts of the present invention.

[0035] As used herein, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third” are used interchangeably to distinguish one component from another and are not intended to indicate the location or importance of an individual component. Unless the context clearly specifies otherwise, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural references. Unless otherwise specified herein, the terms “connected,” “fixed,” “attached to,” etc., refer both to a direct connection, fixation, or attachment and to an indirect connection, fixation, or attachment via one or more intermediate components or features. As used herein, the terms “comprising,” “including,” “containing,” “having,” “possessing,” or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, article, or apparatus that includes a list of features is not necessarily limited to those features but may include other features not expressly listed or inherent in such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Furthermore, unless expressly stated to the contrary, “or” means inclusive or, not exclusive or. For example, condition A or B is satisfied by any of the following conditions: 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).

[0036] Approximate terms, such as “approximately,” “roughly,” “around,” or “substantially,” include values ​​that are within 10% larger or smaller than the stated value. When used in the context of angles or directions, such terms include values ​​that are within 10 degrees larger or smaller than the stated angle or direction. For example, “approximately vertical” includes directions that differ from the vertical direction by within 10 degrees in any direction, such as clockwise or counterclockwise.

[0037] The benefits, other advantages, and solutions to the problems will be described below with reference to specific embodiments. However, the benefits, advantages, solutions to the problems, and any feature(s) that may lead to or make more significant any benefit, advantage, or solution should not be construed as key, necessary, or essential features of any or all claims.

[0038] Embodiments of a hedge trimmer assembly 100, a blade assembly 110, a fastener 120, a tool system 200 for the blade assembly, and a method for the blade assembly (hereinafter referred to as "method 1000") are provided herein. The embodiments of the hedge trimmer assembly 100, blade assembly 110, and fastener 120 provided herein may include and facilitate the use of fewer parts, such as fewer fasteners, at the blade assembly of the hedge trimmer than known hedge trimmers and blade assemblies. The embodiments of the tool system 200 and method 1000 provided herein may facilitate the inclusion of fewer fasteners at lawn and garden tools, such as hedge trimmer assemblies. The embodiments provided herein may reduce the number of parts; facilitate assembly from one side of the blade without access to a second side (e.g., the back side); eliminate the need for torque tools, reducing the weight of the hedge trimmer assembly, blade assembly, and tool; reduce errors during assembly (e.g., errors related to fastener placement or torque); increase the service life of the hedge trimmer assembly and blade assembly; or contribute to aesthetic improvements of the blade assembly and hedge trimmer assembly.

[0039] Now refer to the attached diagram, Figure 1 Exemplary embodiments of a lawn and garden tool comprising a hedge trimmer assembly 100 according to aspects of this disclosure are shown. The hedge trimmer assembly 100 includes a housing 102, a motor, and a power attachment (not shown) located at the housing 102 to operate a blade assembly 110. User interfaces 104, 106 (e.g., handles) are positioned and configured to facilitate a user's gripping, operation, and articulation of the hedge trimmer assembly 100, as is generally understood in the art. A power articulation interface 108 (e.g., a button or trigger) is located at the housing 102 and / or one or more user interfaces 104, 106 and is configured to allow the user to selectively provide power to operate the blade assembly 110. A wall 109 may be located between the housing 102 and the blade assembly 110, for example, to form a protective element that may create a barrier between the user (or a portion of the user, such as the user's hand) and the blade assembly 110, as is generally understood in the art.

[0040] The blade assembly 110 is attached to and extends from the housing 102, for example, in a longitudinal direction L. The blade assembly 110 may generally include one or more blade components 114, such as forming first and second blades, or a hinge and a fixing member, or a pair of hinge members. A member 112 extends from the housing 102 and may generally form a structural or rigid blunt body extension along which the blade components (one or more) 114 are supported, for example, in a longitudinal direction L. An end guard 107 may be positioned at the distal end of the blade assembly 110. The end guard 107 may at least partially shield a portion of the blade assembly 110 remote from the housing 102, for example, to provide a barrier between the blade components (one or more) 114 and objects, articles, etc., outside the hedge trimmer assembly 100.

[0041] Now for reference Figure 2-17 The present disclosure provides embodiments of components, tools, and methods for assemblies according to aspects thereof. Figure 2-5 An exploded perspective view of a portion of an embodiment of the blade assembly 110 is provided, and generally illustrates the steps of assembling the blade assembly 110 according to an embodiment of the method 1000 further described herein. The blade assembly 110 includes one or more blade components 114, which, for example, include a plurality of teeth or cutting members distributed along a longitudinal direction L. The blade components 114 form a slot or opening 115 through which a fastener 120 extends. A retainer 130 forming a wall includes a retainer opening 132 through which the fastener 120 extends. The retainer 130 is located on the blade component 114, between the blade component 114 and a ridge 140. The ridge 140 forms a wall including a first ridge opening 142 and a second ridge opening 144 extending from the first opening 142. The second opening 144 forms an opening with a narrow cross-section relative to the first opening 142, for example, an opening with a narrow cross-section along a width direction W perpendicular to the longitudinal direction L.

[0042] In various embodiments, one or more of the openings 115, 132, 142 extend in the same direction as the extension of the blade component 114, for example, along the longitudinal direction L. In other various embodiments, the retainer 130 and the ridge 140 may be stacked (e.g., along height H) onto the blade component 114, as described further herein.

[0043] See Figure 4-5 Fastener 120 extends through first ridge opening 142, for example, during ridge 140 stacking onto retainer 130. Openings 142, 144 are positioned to allow a user to hinge blade component 114 in a first direction (e.g., a first direction 91 along longitudinal direction L), or in a second direction (e.g., a second direction 92 opposite to the first direction 91 along longitudinal direction L), or both, to open from first opening 142 (in... Figure 4(shown in the first position) to the second opening 144 (in) Figure 5 (Seen in the second position) An extension of the positioning fastener 120 is positioned through the ridge 140. The narrow cross-sectional area at the opening 144 can form a press fit, interference fit, or other type of friction fit to hold the blade part 114, the retainer 130, and the ridge 140 together by the fastener 120.

[0044] Now for reference Figures 6A-6C This provides a view of an embodiment of fastener 120. The embodiment of fastener 120 includes a base wall 126, from which a protrusion 123 extends in a height direction H perpendicular to the longitudinal direction L and the width direction W. The protrusion 123 includes a base portion 128 connected to the base wall 126. A neck 122 extends from the base portion 128. A wing 124 extends from the neck 122.

[0045] In various embodiments, the neck 122 has a cross-section narrower than the base portion 128 along the width direction W. A wing 124 extends from the neck 122 along the width direction W. In some embodiments, the length of the wing 124 extending along the width direction W is greater than that of the neck 122.

[0046] In some other embodiments, the base portion 128 may extend along the height direction H, corresponding to a thickness along the height direction H of the retainer 130 and the height of the opening 115. (Brief Reference) Figures 7A-7B Perspective and detailed views of an embodiment of the retainer 130 show that the retainer opening 132 may include a notch 134 extending longitudinally L from a central portion forming the retainer opening 132. The cross-sectional area of ​​the notch 134 may correspond to the neck 122 at the fastener 120. In further embodiments, the notch 134 extends from the retainer opening 132 along a first direction 91, a second direction 92, or both. During assembly, as described herein and Figure 2-5 As generally shown, a portion of the fastener 120, such as the neck 122, may extend into the recess 134, such as to facilitate the holding, orientation, or bonding of the blade assembly components 114 to each other.

[0047] See Figures 7A-7B In various embodiments, the retainer 130 may form a wall with a plurality of retainer openings 132 positioned thereon, corresponding to a plurality of fasteners 120. The retainer 130 may form a wall extending in a longitudinal direction L, with a plurality of retainer openings 132 distributed along the longitudinal direction L on the wall. In still other embodiments, the retainer 130 is formed as an integral, single component, such as a rod, sheet, or stamping.

[0048] See Figures 8A-8BThe diagram provides perspective and detailed views of embodiments of the ridge 140. In various embodiments, the ridge 140 may form a wall, with a plurality of ridge openings 142, 144 corresponding to a plurality of fasteners 120 positioned at the wall. The ridge 140 may form a wall extending in a longitudinal direction L, with the plurality of ridge openings 142, 144 distributed along the longitudinal direction L at the wall. A second ridge opening 144 extends from a first ridge opening 142 in the longitudinal direction L. For example, the second ridge opening 144 may extend from a corresponding first ridge opening 142 in the longitudinal direction L along a first direction 91, a second direction 92, or both.

[0049] See still Figures 8A-8B And also see Figure 9 In some embodiments, the ridge 140 includes a first face 147 through which ridge openings 142, 144 are formed, for example, to allow at least a portion of the fastener 120 to extend through the first face 147 in the height direction H. For example, a first ridge opening 142 is formed through the first face 147 to allow a neck 122 to extend through the opening 142. A second ridge opening 144 is formed through the first face 147 and extends from the first ridge opening 142. The narrow cross-sectional width of the second ridge opening 144 can hold the neck 122 of the fastener 120 to the ridge 140. In some embodiments, the wing 124 of the fastener 120 ( Figures 6A-6C The wing 124 is configured to extend in the width direction W to prevent the fastener 120 from being removed through the second ridge opening 144. In some other embodiments, the wing 124 extends in the width direction W to be larger than the second ridge opening 144 or further larger than the notch 134 in order to retain the ridge 140 to the retainer 130 and the blade member 114.

[0050] In other implementations, slope 125 ( Figures 6A-6C The ramp 125 extends from the wing 124 along the height direction H toward the base wall 126. The ramp 125 is configured to facilitate a frictional engagement, such as a press fit or interference fit, between the fastener 120 and the ridge 140 when the fastener 120 is hinged to the second ridge opening 144. For example, the ramp 125 may extend along the height direction H to rub against, touch, or contact the first surface 147 of the ridge 140.

[0051] Still referencing Figures 8A-8B And further reference Figure 9 In some embodiments, the ridge 140 includes a first surface 147, a second surface 145, and a cavity 149 formed between the two. The second surface 145 may cover the top of the fastener 120, such as a wing 124. The wing 124 of the fastener 120 may be located within the cavity 149 between the first surface 145 and the second surface 147.

[0052] Now for reference Figure 9-10Embodiments of a spine 140 and a member 112 are provided. In some embodiments, the member 112 includes a rod or plate 117 extending in the same direction as the blade member 114. Member openings 111 may be formed corresponding to ribs 141 extending from the spine 140. A plurality of ribs 141 may be distributed along a longitudinal direction L. Spaces or recesses 143 may be formed between pairs of ribs 141. A plurality of member openings 111 corresponding to the plurality of ribs 141 may be formed at the member 112. During assembly, ribs 141 may extend into the openings 111 and hook or latch onto the member 112. Ribs 141 may form retaining features to at least partially connect the spine 140 to the member 112.

[0053] Brief Review Figure 7A and Figure 8A And further examine Figure 11 In a cross-sectional side view, retainer 130 and ridge 140 may form openings 136, 138, 146, 148, where retainer 130 and ridge 140 may be connected to housing 102 of hedge trimmer assembly 100. Figure 1 Openings 136 and 146 may form proximal openings where retainer 130 and ridge 140 may be connected to housing 102. Figure 1 Openings 138 and 148 may form distal openings where end guards 107 may be attached. In various embodiments, member 112, blade member 114, or both may include openings (one or more) corresponding to openings 136, 146, or openings 138, 148, at which blade assembly 110 may be attached to member 112.

[0054] See Figure 11 In some embodiments, fastener 150 may extend through member 112, ridge 140, retainer 130, and blade assembly 114. For example, threaded shank 152 may extend through an opening in member 112, ridge 140, retainer 130, blade assembly 114, or a combination thereof, to attach blade assembly 110 to member 112.

[0055] Now for reference Figure 12-17 This provides a view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a tool system 200 for a blade assembly. References Figure 18 A flowchart outlining exemplary steps of method 1000 is provided. (Reference) Figure 12-17The tool system 200 includes a base 210 that forms a channel 212 into which a cutting element (e.g., cutting element 114) can be inserted. In various embodiments, the base 210 forms a channel 212 that extends in the same direction as the cutting element 114, for example, along a longitudinal direction L. The base 210 forms a fastener opening or recess 220 into which embodiments of the fastener 120, as shown and described herein, can be inserted. The base 210 forms a base plate 222 into which the fastener 120 can extend through the recess 220. For example, the fastener 120 is disposed through the recess 220, and a base wall 126 of the fastener 120 is positioned on the base plate 222 to allow a neck 122 to extend through the recess 220. In some embodiments, the depth or height of the recess 220 corresponds to the extension of the base wall 126 along the height direction H. For example, when inserted into the recess 220, the neck 122 extends above the recess 220.

[0056] See Figure 18 Method 1000 includes positioning, setting, or otherwise inserting a fastener (e.g., fastener 120) at 1010 into a fastener opening or recess (e.g., recess 220) at a base fastener (e.g., base 210), such as Figure 13 As shown. In various embodiments, method 1000 at 1010 includes inserting a plurality of fasteners into corresponding fastener recesses at the base. In some embodiments, method 1000 at 1010 includes arranging a plurality of fasteners adjacent to a direction in which a second ridge opening (e.g., second ridge opening 144) extends from a first ridge opening (e.g., first ridge opening 142). For example, the second ridge opening 144 extends from the first ridge opening 142 in a longitudinal direction L, and a plurality of fasteners 120 are arranged adjacent to each other in a recess 220 (or one or more) at the base 210 in the longitudinal direction L.

[0057] Method 1000 includes setting one or more blade components (e.g., blade component 114) onto a base fixture at 1020, for example as... Figure 13 As shown. In various embodiments, method 1000 at 1020 includes positioning a blade component opening (e.g., opening 115) over a fastener (e.g., fastener 120) such that the neck of the fastener extends through the blade component opening. In still other embodiments, method 1000 at 1020 includes positioning a respective blade component opening over a respective fastener.

[0058] Method 1000 includes setting a retainer (e.g., retainer 130) onto a blade component (e.g., blade component 114) at 1030, for example as Figure 14As shown. In various embodiments, method 1000 at 1030 includes positioning a retainer opening (e.g., opening 132) over a fastener (e.g., fastener 120) such that the neck of the fastener extends through the blade component opening and the retainer opening. In still other embodiments, method 1000 at 1030 includes positioning a corresponding retainer opening over a corresponding fastener extending through the corresponding blade component opening.

[0059] Method 1000 includes attaching a ridge (e.g., ridge 140) to a retainer (e.g., retainer 130) at 1040, for example as Figure 15 As shown. In various embodiments, method 1000 at 1040 includes positioning a first ridge opening (e.g., first ridge opening 142) over a fastener (e.g., fastener 120) such that the neck of the fastener extends through the blade component opening, the retainer opening, and the first ridge opening. In still other embodiments, method 1000 at 1040 includes positioning a corresponding first ridge opening over a corresponding retainer opening and a blade component opening.

[0060] Method 1000 includes pushing or pressing the ridge towards or against a second ridge opening (e.g., second ridge opening 144) extending from the first ridge opening at 1050. In various embodiments, the second ridge opening 144 is positioned in the longitudinal direction L near the first ridge opening 142. Pressing the ridge 140 against the second ridge opening 144 may include pressing or frictionally engaging the ridge 140 in the longitudinal direction L, for example, press-fitting, interfering, or otherwise frictionally engaging the neck 122 into the second ridge opening 144 to secure the fastener 120, retainer 130, ridge 140, and blade component 114 together. Pressing the ridge against the second ridge opening positions the neck of the fastener through the second ridge opening, the blade component opening, and the retainer opening.

[0061] See Figure 16 In some embodiments, the tool assembly 200 includes a press retainer 230 configured to be positioned above the blade assembly 114, retainer 130, ridge 140, and retainer 120. The press retainer 230 is configured to engage the ridge 140 to engage and push a second ridge opening 144 above the neck 122 of the fastener 120.

[0062] Now for reference Figure 17 The image shows a bottom view of the blade assembly 110 removed from the tool assembly 200. Figure 17 A base wall 126 is shown located near the bottom side of the blade component 114 and the blade assembly 110. For example, Figure 17 An exemplary embodiment of the base wall 126 of the fastener 120 removed from the recess 220 at the base 210 is shown.

[0063] The embodiments of the hedge trimmer assembly 100, blade assembly 110, fastener 120, tool system 200 for the blade assembly, and method 1000 for the blade assembly provided herein may include and facilitate the use of fewer parts, such as fewer fasteners, in the blade assembly of a hedge trimmer than in known hedge trimmers and blade assemblies. The embodiments of the tool system 200 and method 1000 for the blade assembly provided herein may facilitate the inclusion of fewer fasteners in lawn and garden tools, such as hedge trimmer assemblies. The embodiments provided herein may reduce the number of parts; facilitate assembly from one side of the blade without approaching a second side (e.g., the back side); eliminate the need for torque tools, reducing the weight of the hedge trimmer assembly, blade assembly, and tool; reduce errors during assembly (e.g., errors related to fastener placement or torque); increase the lifespan of the hedge trimmer assembly and blade assembly; or contribute to improving the aesthetics of the blade assembly and hedge trimmer assembly.

[0064] The following clauses provide further aspects and examples of this topic:

[0065] 1. A hedge trimmer comprising: a housing configured to have a motor disposed thereon; a blade assembly extending from the housing, the blade assembly including: a blade member forming a blade opening through which a fastener can extend; a retainer forming a retainer opening through which a fastener can extend; a ridge forming a first ridge opening and a second ridge opening, wherein the second ridge opening extends from the first ridge opening, and wherein the second ridge opening forms a cross-section narrower than the first ridge opening, wherein the fastener can extend from the first ridge opening into the second ridge opening, and wherein the retainer is positioned between the ridge and the blade member.

[0066] 2. A hedge trimmer of any one or more of the provisions herein, wherein the fastener frictionally engages with a second ridge opening.

[0067] 3. A hedge trimmer according to any one or more of the provisions herein, the fastener comprising a base wall; a protrusion extending from the base wall, wherein the protrusion comprises a base portion connected to the base wall, and wherein the protrusion comprises a neck extending from the base portion, the neck forming a narrow cross section relative to the base portion and corresponding to a second ridge opening.

[0068] 4. A hedge trimmer according to any one or more of the provisions herein, wherein the fastener includes a wing extending from the neck, the wing forming a cross-section larger than the neck.

[0069] 5. A hedge trimmer according to any one or more of the provisions herein, wherein the wing includes a ramp extending from the wing toward the base wall, wherein the ramp is configured to frictionally engage the fastener with the ridge when the fastener is positioned in the second ridge opening.

[0070] 6. A hedge trimmer of any one or more of the provisions herein, wherein the blade opening and the retainer opening each extend in the same direction from the first ridge opening to an extension of the second ridge opening.

[0071] 7. A hedge trimmer according to any one or more of the provisions herein, wherein the ridge includes a first face, a first ridge opening and a second ridge opening formed thereon; and a second face extending over a fastener extending into the first ridge opening or the second ridge opening, wherein the first face and the second face form a cavity therebetween, at least a portion of a fastener extending through the first ridge opening or the second ridge opening is positioned thereon.

[0072] 8. A hedge trimmer of any one or more of the provisions herein includes a second fastener that extends through a corresponding opening in the ridge, retainer, blade assembly, and blunt body member.

[0073] 9. A method for assembling a hedge trimmer blade assembly, comprising: disposing a fastener in a fastener opening at a base fixture; disposing a blade component on the base fixture, wherein the blade component opening is located above the fastener such that a neck of the fastener extends through the blade component opening; disposing a retainer on the blade component, wherein the retainer opening is located above the fastener such that a neck of the fastener extends through the retainer opening; disposing a ridge on the retainer, wherein a first ridge opening is located above the fastener such that a neck of the fastener is positioned through the blade component opening, the retainer opening, and the first ridge opening; and advancing the ridge toward a second ridge opening extending from the first ridge opening, wherein advancing the ridge toward the second ridge opening positions the neck of the fastener through the blade component opening, the retainer opening, and the second ridge opening.

[0074] 10. The method of any one or more of the provisions herein, wherein advancing the ridge toward the second ridge opening includes frictionally engaging the neck of the fastener into the second ridge opening.

[0075] 11. The method of any one or more of the provisions herein, wherein advancing the ridge toward the second ridge opening includes frictionally engaging the ramp of the neck of the fastener onto the ridge.

[0076] 12. The method of any one or more of the provisions herein, wherein advancing the ridge toward the second ridge opening includes translating the neck of the fastener from the first ridge opening to the second ridge opening, wherein the second ridge opening corresponds in cross-section to the neck of the fastener.

[0077] 13. A blade assembly for lawn and garden tools, the blade assembly comprising: a blade member forming a blade opening through which a fastener can extend; a retainer forming a retainer opening through which a fastener can extend; a ridge forming a first ridge opening and a second ridge opening, wherein the second ridge opening extends from the first ridge opening, and wherein the second ridge opening forms a cross-section narrower than the first ridge opening, wherein the fastener can extend from the first ridge opening into the second ridge opening, and wherein the retainer is positioned between the ridge and the blade member.

[0078] 14. The blade assembly of any one or more of the provisions herein, wherein the fastener frictionally engages with the second ridge opening.

[0079] 15. The blade assembly of any one or more of the provisions herein, wherein the fastener includes a base wall; a protrusion extending from the base wall, wherein the protrusion includes a base portion connected to the base wall, and wherein the protrusion includes a neck extending from the base portion, the neck forming a narrow cross-section relative to the base portion and corresponding to the second ridge opening.

[0080] 16. The blade assembly of any one or more of the provisions herein, wherein the fastener includes a wing extending from the neck, the wing forming a cross-section larger than the neck.

[0081] 17. The blade assembly of any one or more of the provisions herein, wherein the wing includes a ramp extending from the wing toward the base wall, wherein the ramp is configured to frictionally engage the fastener with the ridge when the fastener is positioned in the second ridge opening.

[0082] 18. The blade assembly of any one or more of the provisions herein, wherein the blade opening and the retainer opening each extend in the same direction from the first ridge opening to an extension of the second ridge opening.

[0083] 19. A blade assembly of any one or more of the provisions herein, wherein the spine includes a first face, a first spine opening and a second spine opening formed thereon; and a second face extending over a fastener extending into the first spine opening or the second spine opening, wherein the first face and the second face form a cavity therebetween, at least a portion of a fastener extending through the first spine opening or the second spine opening is located thereon.

[0084] 20. A tool assembly for assembling a blade assembly, the tool assembly comprising a base forming a channel extending in the same direction as a blade portion of the blade assembly, wherein a fastener opening is formed in the channel, the fastener opening including a base plate configured to receive a fastener of the blade assembly, wherein the base plate is positioned in the fastener opening to allow a neck of the fastener to extend through the fastener opening, wherein the depth of the fastener opening corresponds to an extension along the height of a base wall of the fastener; and a pressing retainer configured to be positioned above the blade portion at the channel of the base, wherein the pressing retainer is configured to engage a ridge of the blade assembly to translate the fastener in the direction of the blade portion.

[0085] This written description uses examples to disclose the present invention, including the best mode, and also enables those skilled in the art to practice the present invention, including making and using any device or system and performing any combined methods. The patentable scope of the present invention is defined by the claims and may include other examples that would occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to fall within the scope of the claims if they include structural elements that are not different from the wording of the claims, or include equivalent structural elements that are not substantially different from the wording of the claims.

Claims

1. A hedge trimmer, characterized in that, The hedge trimmer includes: A housing, wherein the housing is configured such that a motor is disposed in the housing; A blade assembly extending from the housing, the blade assembly comprising: A blade component that forms an opening in the blade, through which fasteners can extend; A retainer forming a retainer opening through which the fastener can extend; A ridge forming a first ridge opening and a second ridge opening, wherein the second ridge opening extends from the first ridge opening, and wherein the second ridge opening forms a cross-section narrower than the first ridge opening, wherein the fastener is capable of extending from the first ridge opening into the second ridge opening, and wherein the retainer is positioned between the ridge and the blade component.

2. The hedge trimmer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The fastener frictionally engages with the second ridge opening.

3. The hedge trimmer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The fasteners include: Base wall; A protrusion extending from the base wall, wherein the protrusion includes a base portion connected to the base wall, and wherein the protrusion includes a neck extending from the base portion, the neck forming a narrow cross-section relative to the base portion and corresponding to the second ridge opening.

4. The hedge trimmer according to claim 3, characterized in that, The fasteners include: A wing extending from the neck forms a cross-section larger than that of the neck.

5. The hedge trimmer according to claim 4, characterized in that, The wing includes a ramp extending from the wing toward the base wall, wherein the ramp is configured to frictionally engage the fastener with the ridge when the fastener is positioned in the second ridge opening.

6. The hedge trimmer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The blade opening and the retainer opening each extend in the same direction from the first ridge opening to the extension of the second ridge opening.

7. The hedge trimmer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The ridge includes: Firstly, the first ridge opening and the second ridge opening are formed on the first surface; and The second surface extends above a fastener that extends into the first ridge opening or the second ridge opening, wherein the first surface and the second surface form a cavity therebetween, and at least a portion of the fastener extending through the first ridge opening or the second ridge opening is positioned in the cavity.

8. The hedge trimmer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The hedge trimmer includes: A second fastener is capable of extending through corresponding openings in the ridge, the retainer, the blade component, and the blunt body member.

9. A blade assembly configured for use in lawn and garden tools, characterized in that, The blade assembly includes: A blade component that forms a blade opening, through which fasteners can extend; A retainer forming a retainer opening through which the fastener can extend; A ridge forming a first ridge opening and a second ridge opening, wherein the second ridge opening extends from the first ridge opening, and wherein the second ridge opening forms a cross-section narrower than the first ridge opening, wherein the fastener is capable of extending from the first ridge opening into the second ridge opening, and wherein the retainer is positioned between the ridge and the blade component.

10. The blade assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that, The fastener frictionally engages with the second ridge opening.

11. The blade assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that, The fasteners include: Base wall; A protrusion extending from the base wall, wherein the protrusion includes a base portion connected to the base wall, and wherein the protrusion includes a neck extending from the base portion, the neck forming a narrow cross-section relative to the base portion and corresponding to the second ridge opening.

12. The blade assembly according to claim 11, characterized in that, The fasteners include: A wing extending from the neck forms a cross-section larger than that of the neck.

13. The blade assembly according to claim 12, characterized in that, The wing includes a ramp extending from the wing toward the base wall, wherein the ramp is configured to frictionally engage the fastener with the ridge when the fastener is positioned in the second ridge opening.

14. The blade assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that, The blade opening and the retainer opening each extend in the same direction from the first ridge opening to the extension of the second ridge opening.

15. The blade assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that, The ridge includes: On the first surface, the first ridge opening and the second ridge opening are formed on the first surface; and The second surface extends above a fastener that extends into the first ridge opening or the second ridge opening, wherein the first and second surfaces form a cavity therebetween, and at least a portion of the fastener extending through the first ridge opening or the second ridge opening is positioned in the cavity.

16. The blade assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that, The blade assembly includes: A second fastener is capable of extending through corresponding openings in the ridge, the retainer, the blade component, and the blunt body member.

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