Power equipment

Abstract

According to an example, a power apparatus may include a controller, a motor to actuate a work implement, a first element, a second element housing the motor, where the first element is rotatably mounted to the second element. The power device may also include a first sensor positioned to detect an orientation of the first element and a second sensor positioned to detect an orientation of the second element. The first sensor outputs a first signal corresponding to the detected orientation of the first element to the controller, and the second sensor outputs a second signal corresponding to the detected orientation of the second element to the controller. Further, the controller may enable or disable the motor based on both the first signal and the second signal.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to power equipment. In particular, the present disclosure relates to a power equipment having a first orientation sensor disposed in or on a first element of the power equipment and a second orientation sensor disposed in or on a second element of the power equipment such that when either or both of the first element and the second element are detected to be outside of certain respective orientation ranges, an electric motor of the power equipment can be disabled. In other words, when the first element or the second element are in certain positions relative to each other and / or gravity, the electric motor can be disabled to prevent unintended operation of the power equipment. BACKGROUND

[0002] Power equipment, such as lawn mowers, snow throwers, tillers, cultivators, trimmers, edgers, and other types of power equipment, generally include a handle for an operator to use to push, pull, or otherwise manipulate the power equipment. The handle is generally connected to a main body or chassis of the power equipment. The handle can include a single crossbar having a gripping portion for both hands of the operator, or can include two bars having a gripping portion for respective hands of the operator. In many types of power equipment, the handle is rotatably mounted to the main body so that the handle can be moved between a working position and a stowed position. In the working position, the handle can extend away from the main body so that the handle extends from the main body at an angle greater than about 90°. In the stowed position, the handle can extend from the main body at an angle less than about 45°. When the handle is in the stowed position, some types of power equipment can be stored vertically. SUMMARY

[0003] This section provides a general summary of the disclosure, and is not a comprehensive disclosure of its full scope or all of its features.

[0004] According to embodiments disclosed herein, a power equipment can include a controller, an electric motor that actuates a work implement, a first element that houses the electric motor, a second element that is rotatably mounted to the first element, a first sensor positioned to detect an orientation of the first element, wherein the first sensor outputs a first signal corresponding to the detected orientation of the first element to the controller, and a second sensor positioned to detect an orientation of the second element, wherein the second sensor outputs a second signal corresponding to the detected orientation of the second element to the controller. Further, the controller can enable or disable the electric motor based on both the first signal and the second signal.

[0005] According to embodiments disclosed herein, a power equipment can include a controller, a work implement, an electric motor to rotate the work implement, a first element, a second element to house the electric motor, a first sensor mounted on the first element, wherein the first element is rotatably mounted to the second element. The first sensor detects at least one orientation of the first element and outputs a first signal corresponding to the detected at least one orientation of the first element to the controller. The power equipment can further include a second sensor mounted to the second element, wherein the second sensor detects at least one orientation of the second element and outputs a second signal corresponding to the detected at least one orientation of the second element to the controller. Further, the controller disables the electric motor based on either the orientation of the first element being outside of at least one first predetermined orientation range or the orientation of the second element being outside of at least one second predetermined orientation range.

[0006] According to embodiments disclosed herein, a method can include receiving, by a controller, a first signal corresponding to a detected orientation of a first sensor positioned on a first element of a power equipment, wherein the power equipment includes an electric motor to actuate a work implement of the power equipment. The method can further include receiving, by the controller, a second signal corresponding to a detected orientation of a second sensor positioned on a second element of the power equipment, wherein the first element is rotatably mounted to the second element. The method can further include determining, by the controller, whether to enable or disable the electric motor based on the first signal and the second signal, and enabling or disabling, by the controller, the electric motor based on the determination. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0007] Features of the present disclosure are illustrated by way of example and not limited to the following figures in which identical reference numerals indicate identical elements, wherein:

[0008] Figures 1A-1C Power equipment in various first element positions and second element positions according to embodiments of the present disclosure are respectively illustrated;

[0009] Figure 1D Power equipment according to embodiments of the present disclosure is illustrated, wherein the power equipment is in an orientation in which a controller can disable an electric motor;

[0010] Figure 1E Power equipment according to embodiments of the present disclosure is illustrated, Figure 1D Front view of power equipment depicted in FIG. 4;

[0011] Figures 1F-1H Perspective views of a string trimmer in various positions according to embodiments of the present disclosure are respectively illustrated;

[0012] Figures 2A-2D Block diagrams of various configurations according to embodiments of the present disclosure are respectively illustrated, whereinFigures 1A-1C The first sensor and the second sensor shown in the middle can determine and transmit the first signal and the second signal, respectively, to the controller; and

[0013] Figure 3 A flowchart of a method for controlling an electric motor in a power equipment according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0014] Many types of power equipment, such as walk-behind lawn mowers, edgers, trimmers, and the like, have a handle that an operator of the power equipment uses to maneuver the power equipment. The handle is often movable between a working position and a stowed position. In the working position, the operator can be kept at a safe distance from a working implement (e.g., a blade) of the power equipment. However, when in the stowed position, such as when the handle is stowed or folded, the operator can be able to both press a trigger to actuate the working implement and be close enough to the working implement to be injured by the working implement. In other words, the handle can not prevent the operator from violating a setback distance from the working implement when in the stowed or folded state. This can be particularly dangerous when the power equipment is stored vertically and the working implement can be exposed.

[0015] Disclosed herein is a power equipment that can include a first sensor positioned to detect an orientation of a first element (e.g., a handle, a first member, a top, etc.) of the power equipment and a second sensor positioned to detect an orientation of a second element (e.g., a chassis, a housing, a second member, a bottom, etc.) of the power equipment. In some examples, the first sensor can detect an orientation of the first element relative to gravity and the second sensor can detect an orientation of the second element relative to gravity. In other examples, the first sensor can detect an orientation of the first element relative to gravity and the second sensor can detect an orientation of the second element relative to the first element. In other examples, the first sensor can detect an orientation of the first element relative to the second element and the second sensor can detect an orientation of the second element relative to gravity.

[0016] In any of these examples, the power device can include a controller that can determine whether the first element is in an orientation outside of a first predetermined orientation range and whether the second element is in an orientation outside of a second predetermined orientation range. In some examples, the first predetermined orientation range and the second predetermined orientation range can include ranges that have been determined to keep the operator outside of a rearward distance. In other words, the predetermined orientation ranges can be set to keep the operator at a safe distance from the work implement of the power device. Additionally, based on determining that the orientation of the first element is outside of the first predetermined orientation range and / or determining that the orientation of the chassis is outside of the second predetermined orientation range, the controller can disable an electric motor that actuates the work implement of the power device. In other words, the controller can enable the electric motor based on determining that the orientation of the first element is within the first predetermined orientation range and the orientation of the second element is within the second predetermined orientation range.

[0017] By implementing features of the present disclosure, the work implement of the power device can be enabled when both the first element and the second element are within certain orientations. Thus, the work implement can be prevented from actuation in situations where the first element of the power device (e.g., handle, top, etc.) is in a safe position but the second element of the power device (e.g., chassis, housing, bottom, etc.) is in an unsafe position. Likewise, the work implement can be prevented from actuation in situations where the second element is in a safe position but the first element is in an unsafe position. Thus, an operator of the power device disclosed herein can be able to safely operate the power device. In other words, accidental operation of the work implement and / or the power device can be prevented.

[0018] Before continuing, it should be noted that the terms “comprises” and “comprising” as used herein are meant to be interpreted in a non-limiting, inclusive sense and the term “based on” means “based, at least in part, on.”

[0019] Figures 1A-1C A power device 100 in various first element positions and second element positions according to embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. It should be understood that, Figures 1A-1C The power device 100 depicted in FIGS. 1-3 can include additional components and some components described herein can be removed and / or modified without departing from the scope of the power device 100 disclosed herein. It should also be understood that, Figures 1A-1C The components depicted in FIGS. 1-3 are in certain positions for purposes of illustration and, as such, should not be construed to limit the power device 100 in any way. For example, the first element 110 is secured to a top portion of the second element 106, but can be secured to the second element 106 at a lower portion of the second element 106 in other examples.

[0020] The power equipment 100, which can also be referred to as a walk-behind power equipment 100 including the electric motor 102 and the work implement 104, can be any type of power equipment that an operator can stand or walk behind while operating the power equipment. For example, the power equipment 100 can be a lawn mower, a motorized snow thrower, a motorized tiller, a motorized cultivator, a grass trimmer, an aerator, a walk-behind string trimmer, a stump grinder, a compactor, a turf cutter, a trencher, and / or the like. In the example where the power equipment 100 is a lawn mower as shown in Figures 1A-1E , the work implement 104 can be a lawn mower blade. In other examples where the power equipment 100 is a motorized snow thrower, the work implement 104 can be an auger or other type of device. In the example where the power equipment 100 is a motorized tiller, the work implement 104 can be a tiller blade. In the example where the power equipment 100 is a string trimmer as shown in Figures 1F-1H , the work implement can be a string and a mounting member for the string.

[0021] As shown in Figure 1A , the power equipment 100 can also include a first element 110 rotatably mounted to the second element 106. The first element 110 can also be referred to as a handle, a top, a first portion, and / or the like. The second element 106 can also be referred to as a chassis, a main body, a lawn mower chassis, a platform, a housing, a bottom, a second portion, and / or the like. In any aspect, the second element 106 can house or otherwise support the electric motor 102. Additionally, the electric motor 102 can be attached to the work implement 104 and can drive the work implement 104, for example, through a drive shaft 108. In the case where the first element 110 is a handle, the first element 110 can collectively include a crossbar portion that an operator can grasp and a connecting bar or other device that extends from the portion to the second element 106. As shown, the first element 110 can be mounted to the second element 106 via a rotatable mount such that the first element 110 can be rotated relative to the second element 106 at various angles as shown by arrow 112. For example, the first element 110 can be rotated between an operating position as shown in Figure 1A and a storage position as shown in Figure 1B and 1C .

[0022] In the operating position, an operator of the power apparatus 100 can push or otherwise manipulate the power apparatus 100 by exerting force on the first element 110. Additionally, the power apparatus 100 can include a locking mechanism, which is schematically illustrated by the box 114. The locking mechanism 114 can lock the first element 110 in the operating position until the locking mechanism 114 is released. The locking mechanism 114 can also lock the first element 110 in the stowed position until the locking mechanism 114 is released. The locking mechanism 114 can include any suitable type of mechanism that can securely, but releasably, hold the first element 110 in the operating position, and in some cases, the stowed position.

[0023] In addition to enabling the operator to manipulate the power apparatus 100, during normal use of the power apparatus 100, the first element 110 can hold the operator at a safe distance away from the second element 106 and thus the work implement 104. That is, when the operator stands in a position that normally grasps the first element 110, the operator can also be spaced apart from the work implement 104 to prevent the work implement 104 from injuring the operator. Thus, when the operator presses the crossbar handle 152 (shown in Figure 1D FIG. 2) or other mechanism positioned on the handle to activate the electric motor 102 to actuate (e.g., rotate and / or translate) the work implement 104, the operator will be at a sufficiently safe distance from the work implement 104.

[0024] As also shown in Figure 1A FIG. 1, the power apparatus 100 can include a controller 120 that can control operation of the electric motor 102. The controller 120 can be any suitable type of electronic unit that can control the electric motor 102, such as a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a microprocessor, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), etc. According to an example, the controller 120 can enable or disable the electric motor 102 depending on whether the orientations of the second element 106 and the first element 110 are within certain respective orientation ranges. That is, the controller 120 can enable the electric motor 102 when the controller 120 determines that the second element 106 and the first element 110 are within certain predetermined respective orientation ranges. For example, when the operator pulls the crossbar handle 152 (shown in Figure 1D FIG. 2) to activate the electric motor 102 and thus the work implement 104, the controller 120 can enable the electric motor 102 to actuate the work implement 104. However, the controller 120 can disable the electric motor 102 when the controller 120 determines that the first element 110 is at an angle outside of a first predetermined orientation range and / or the second element 106 is at an orientation outside of a second predetermined orientation range. That is, the controller 120 can prevent the electric motor 102 from actuating (e.g., rotating) the work implement 104 when the operator pulls the crossbar handle 152 to activate the electric motor 102.

[0025] like Figure 1A As shown, the power device 100 may include a first sensor 130 positioned to detect the orientation of a first element 110 and a second sensor 132 positioned to detect the orientation of a second element 106. It should be understood that the first sensor 130 may be positioned at any of a plurality of different locations within or on the first element 110, as long as the first sensor 130 is capable of detecting the orientation of the first element 110. The first sensor 130 may also be positioned in a location that will not interfere with other components within or on the first element 110. Similarly, the second sensor 132 may be positioned at any of a plurality of different locations within or on the second element 106, as long as the second sensor 132 is capable of detecting the orientation of the second element 106. The second sensor 132 may also be positioned in a location that will not interfere with other components within or on the second element 106.

[0026] In some examples, the first sensor 130 can detect the orientation of the first element 110 relative to gravity, and the second sensor 132 can detect the orientation of the second element 106 relative to gravity. In other examples, the first sensor 130 can detect the orientation of the first element 110 relative to gravity, and the second sensor 132 can detect the orientation of the second element 106 relative to the first element 110. In these examples, the second sensor 132 may include an encoder or other mechanism to detect and track the orientation of the second element 106 relative to the first element 110. In other examples, the first sensor 130 can detect the orientation of the first element 110 relative to the second element 106, and the second sensor 132 can detect the orientation of the second element 106 relative to gravity. In these examples, the first sensor 130 may include an encoder or other mechanism to detect and track the orientation of the first element 110 relative to the second element 106.

[0027] According to the examples, the first sensor 130 and the second sensor 132 may each be an accelerometer, inclinometer, encoder, gyroscope, inertial measurement unit (IMU), or other suitable type of device for detecting orientation changes. In some examples, the first sensor 130 and / or the second sensor 132 may detect orientation along a single axis (e.g., in the direction indicated by arrow 112). In other examples, the first sensor 130 and / or the second sensor 132 may detect orientation along multiple axes (e.g., in two or three directions). In these examples, the first sensor 130 and / or the second sensor 132 may detect orientation in the direction indicated by arrow 112 and... Figure 1EThe first sensor 130 and / or the second sensor 132 can detect an orientation with respect to each of the X, Y, and Z axes. For example, the first sensor 130 and / or the second sensor 132 can detect an orientation with respect to the X axis, an orientation with respect to the Y axis, and an orientation with respect to the Z axis. The first sensor 130 and / or the second sensor 132 can detect an orientation with respect to each of the X, Y, and Z axes in the direction indicated by the arrow 170. For example, the first sensor 130 and / or the second sensor 132 can detect an orientation with respect to each of the X, Y, and Z axes.

[0028] In any of these examples, the first sensor 130 can output a first signal to the controller 120 corresponding to a detected orientation (e.g., a tilt angle, a rotation angle, etc.) of the first sensor 130, and thus a first element 110. Further, the second sensor 132 can output a second signal to the controller 120 corresponding to a detected orientation (e.g., a tilt angle, a rotation angle, etc.) of the second sensor 132, and thus the second element 106. The controller 120 can enable or disable the electric motor 102 based on both the first signal and the second signal. The first sensor 130 can output the first signal to the controller 120 through the first cable 134, and the second sensor 132 can output the second signal to the controller 120 through the second cable 133. In other examples, the first sensor 130 and / or the second sensor 132 can transmit the signals to the controller 120 through a common cable or wirelessly.

[0029] According to an example, the first sensor 130 can include circuitry to determine whether a detected orientation of the first element 110 is outside of a first predetermined orientation range. The circuitry can include, for example, a first logic block that can compare a detected orientation of the first element 110 to the first predetermined orientation range. That is, the circuitry can determine whether a detected orientation of the first element 110 is within or outside of the first predetermined orientation range. Further, the circuitry can output a first notification to the controller 120 to indicate whether a detected orientation of the first element 110 is within or outside of the first predetermined orientation range. The first predetermined orientation range can be any suitable range of angles in which the power equipment 100 can be safely operated. The first predetermined orientation range can be user-defined, learned through historical data (e.g., through the use of artificial intelligence and / or machine learning techniques), determined through testing, etc. As a particular example, the first predetermined orientation range can be between about -15° and about 80° with respect to a horizontal axis (represented by the dashed line 136). In other words, as shown, the first predetermined orientation range can be generally between the dashed lines 138 and 140. Figure 1A

[0030] In examples in which the first sensor 130 detects an orientation along multiple axes, the circuitry can determine whether a detected orientation of the first element 110 is outside of a first predetermined orientation range for a respective axis. The first predetermined orientation range for a first axis (e.g., about the Z axis) can be generally between the dashed lines 138 and 140, as discussed herein. Further, the first predetermined orientation range for a second axis (e.g., about the Y axis) can be generally between the dashed lines 142 and 144, as discussed herein. The first predetermined orientation range for a third axis (e.g., about the X axis) can be generally between the dashed lines 146 and 148, as discussed herein. Figure 1E ​The first predetermined orientation range (e.g., about 45° and about 135° relative to the horizontal axis (represented by dashed lines 172 and 174)) can be user-defined, learned from historical data (such as by using artificial intelligence and / or machine learning techniques), determined through testing, etc. As a particular example, the first predetermined orientation range can be between other angles without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0031] The first predetermined orientation range of the respective axis can also be user-defined, learned from historical data (such as by using artificial intelligence and / or machine learning techniques), determined through testing, etc. As an example, and as shown in FIG. 1, the first predetermined orientation range of the respective axis can be about 45° and about 135° relative to the horizontal axis (represented by dashed lines 172 and 174). In other examples, the first predetermined orientation range can be between other angles without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Figure 1A As shown, the circuitry can determine whether the orientation of the first element 110 along the X-axis is outside of the first predetermined orientation range about the Z-axis, whether the orientation of the first element 110 along the Y-axis is outside of the first predetermined orientation range about the X-axis, and / or whether the orientation of the first element 110 along the Z-axis is outside of the first predetermined orientation range about the Y-axis. In these examples, the first sensor 130 can output the first signal to indicate whether the first element 110 is within or outside of each of the first predetermined orientation ranges. That is, for example, in response to determining that the detected orientation of the first element 110 is outside of any of the first predetermined orientation ranges, the first sensor 130 can output the first signal to indicate that the first element 110 is outside of the first predetermined orientation range.

[0032] According to an example, the second sensor 132 can include circuitry to determine whether the detected orientation of the second element 106 is outside of a second predetermined orientation range. The circuitry can include, for example, a second logic block that can compare the detected orientation of the second element 106 to the second predetermined orientation range. That is, the circuitry of the second sensor 132 can determine whether the detected orientation of the second element 106 is within or outside of the second predetermined orientation range. Further, the circuitry of the second sensor 132 can output a second signal to the controller 120 to indicate whether the detected orientation of the second element 106 is within or outside of the second predetermined orientation range. The second predetermined orientation range can be any suitable range of angles, and can be user-defined, learned from historical data (such as by using artificial intelligence and / or machine learning techniques), determined through testing, etc. As a particular example, the second predetermined orientation range can be between about 45° and about -30° relative to the horizontal axis (represented by dashed line 136). In other words, the second predetermined orientation range can be approximately between dashed lines 142 and 144, as shown in FIG. 1. Figure 1A

[0033] ​In the example where the second sensor 132 detects orientation along multiple axes, the circuitry can determine whether the detected orientation of the second element 106 is outside a second predetermined orientation range for the corresponding axis. The second predetermined orientation range for the first axis (e.g., around the Z-axis) can be approximately between dashed lines 142 and 144, as discussed herein. Furthermore, the second axis (e.g., as...) Figure 1E The second predetermined orientation range (shown around the X-axis) can be approximately between the dashed lines 172 and 174. The second predetermined orientation range for the corresponding axis can also be user-defined, learned from historical data (such as through the use of artificial intelligence and / or machine learning techniques), determined through testing, etc. As an example, and referring to... Figure 1A The circuit can determine whether the orientation of the second element 106 along the X-axis is outside a second predetermined orientation range around the Z-axis, whether the orientation of the second element 106 along the Y-axis is outside a second predetermined orientation range around the X-axis, and / or whether the orientation of the second element 106 along the Z-axis is outside a second predetermined orientation range around the Y-axis. In these examples, the second sensor 132 can output a second signal to indicate whether the second element 106 is inside or outside each of the second predetermined orientation ranges. That is, for example, the second sensor 132 can output a second signal to indicate that the second element 106 is outside the second predetermined orientation range in response to determining that the orientation of the second element 106 is detected to be outside any of the second predetermined orientation ranges.

[0034] According to the example, controller 120 can enable motor 102 to operate based on a first signal indicating that first element 110 is in an orientation within one or more first predetermined orientation ranges and a second signal indicating that second element 106 is in one or more second predetermined orientation ranges. Similarly, if the first signal indicates that first element 110 is in an orientation outside one or more first predetermined orientation ranges, if the second signal indicates that second element 106 is in an orientation outside one or more second predetermined orientation ranges, or if both first element 110 and second element 106 are outside their respective one or more predetermined orientation ranges, controller 120 can prevent motor 102 from actuating work appliance 104.

[0035] With the controller 120 enabling the electric motor 102, the electric motor 102 can cause the work implement 104 to be actuated, e.g., rotated, translated, etc. When the work implement 104 is actuated, an operator of the power equipment 100 can push the first element 110 to cause the power equipment 100 to move forward, backward, or to one side. In some examples, the power equipment 100 includes a plurality of wheels 150 to facilitate movement of the power equipment 100. In some examples, the electric motor 102 or another electric motor (not shown) can drive one or more of the wheels 150 such that, for example, the power equipment 100 can be self-propelled. In these examples, the controller 120 can also enable or disable the electric motor 102 or the other electric motor to turn the wheels 150 in accordance with the first signal and the second signal.

[0036] According to examples, the power equipment 100 can include a battery 160, which can be a rechargeable battery and / or a replaceable battery. In other examples, the power equipment 100 can include a power cable that can be plugged into an electrical outlet such that the power equipment 100 can receive power from the electrical outlet. In yet other examples, the power equipment 100 can include an internal combustion engine (not shown), e.g., a gas-powered internal combustion engine. In any of these examples, the controller 120 can prevent power from being delivered to the electric motor 102 to disable the electric motor 102. Additionally or alternatively, the controller 120 can prevent a signal from being passed from the controller 120 to the electric motor 102 in response to receiving a signal from the trigger to cause the work implement 104 to be implemented to disable the electric motor 102.

[0037] Turning now to Figure 1B , the first element 110 is depicted in a stowed position. That is, the first element 110 can be in a stowed position relative to the second element 106 such that the power equipment 100 can occupy a relatively smaller amount of space compared to an amount of space occupied by the power equipment 100 when the first element 110 is in an operating position as shown in Figure 1A When in the stowed position as shown in Figure 1B , the first element 110 can be outside of the first predetermined range of orientations. As a result, the first sensor 130 can output a first signal to the controller 120 indicating that the first element 110 is outside of the first predetermined range of orientations. The second sensor 132 can output a second signal to the controller 120 indicating that the orientation of the second element 106 is within the second predetermined range of orientations when the second element 106 is within the second predetermined range of orientations. However, when the first signal indicates that the first element 110 is outside of the first predetermined range of orientations, the controller 120 can disable or prevent the electric motor 102 from actuating the work implement 104, e.g., when the operator instructs the controller 120 to activate the electric motor 102.

[0038] In some cases, the power equipment 100 can be stored upright, for example, as Figure 1C As shown. The power unit 100 can be stored in this manner because this orientation reduces the amount of horizontal space occupied by the power unit 100. As... Figure 1C As shown, the first element 110 is within a first predetermined orientation range indicated by dashed lines 138 and 140. Consequently, the first sensor 130 can transmit a first signal to the controller 120, indicating that the first element 110 is within the first predetermined orientation range. However, the second element 106 is outside a second predetermined orientation range indicated by dashed lines 142 and 144. Consequently, the second sensor 132 can transmit a second signal indicating that the second element 106 is outside the second predetermined orientation range to the controller 120. When the second signal indicates that the second element 106 is outside the second predetermined position range, the controller 120 can disable or prevent the motor 102 from actuating the work implement 104. Therefore, the controller 120 can only enable the motor 102 to actuate the work implement 104 when both the first signal indicates that the first element 110 is within the first predetermined orientation range and the second signal indicates that the second element 106 is within the second predetermined orientation range.

[0039] Now go to Figure 1D The image shows a power device 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the power device 100 is in an orientation in which the controller 120 can disable the motor 102. Figure 1D The power equipment 100 depicted may include Figures 1A-1C Each of the components of the power unit 100 depicted in the image. The power unit 100 is in... Figure 1D The device is also depicted as including a crossbar handle 152, which the operator can pull to start the motor 102. That is, when the crossbar handle 152 is pulled, a command can be sent to the controller 120 to start the motor 102, thereby starting the work implement 104. The power unit 100 may further include a first trigger 154 and a second trigger 156, which, when pressed, can send a command to the controller 120 to activate the self-driving mechanism of the power unit 100.

[0040] exist Figure 1D In this design, the power device 100 is depicted positioned on its side, for example, rotating about an X-axis, such that the second element 106 is vertically oriented beyond a first predetermined orientation range of the second axis (e.g., about the X-axis) and beyond a second predetermined orientation range of the second axis. The first and second predetermined orientation ranges are defined by... Figure 1E The dashed lines 172 and 174 in the diagram represent this. The power equipment 100 can be as follows: Figure 1D The positioning shown is, for example, to remove debris from the bottom of the second element 106 to replace the work tool 104, etc.Figure 1D In the orientations shown, the first sensor 130 can detect that the orientation of the first sensor 130 along the X-axis is within the first predetermined orientation range about the Z-axis, but can detect that the orientation along the Y-axis is outside the first predetermined orientation range about the X-axis. Likewise, the second sensor 132 can detect that the orientation of the second sensor 132 along the X-axis is outside the second predetermined orientation range about the Z-axis, but can detect that the orientation along the Y-axis is within the second predetermined orientation range about the X-axis. As a result, the first sensor 130 can output a first signal to the controller 120 indicating that the orientation of the first sensor 130 is outside the first predetermined orientation range, and the second sensor 132 can output a second signal to the controller 120 indicating that the orientation of the second sensor 132 is outside the second predetermined orientation range. The controller 120 can also disable the motor 102 when the user releases the crossbar handle 152.

[0041] As discussed herein, in some examples, the first sensor 130 can include or can otherwise be in communication with circuitry (e.g., a logic block) that can determine whether the detected orientation of the first sensor 130 is within the first predetermined orientation range or outside the first predetermined orientation range. The logic block of the first sensor 130, which can be a comparator bank, a microcontroller, or the like, can also output the first signal to the controller 120. Likewise, the second sensor 132 can include or can otherwise be in communication with circuitry (e.g., a logic block) that can determine whether the detected orientation of the second sensor 132 is within the second predetermined orientation range or outside the second predetermined orientation range. The logic block of the second sensor 132, which can be a comparator bank, a microcontroller, or the like, can also output the second signal to the controller 120.

[0042] Figures 2A-2D block diagrams depicting various configurations of first and second sensors in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, Figures 1A-1C The first and second sensors 130 and 132 shown in FIG. 1 can determine and communicate the first and second signals, respectively, to the controller 120. It should be understood that the configurations of the first and second sensors 130 and 132 depicted in FIG. 1 can be modified without departing from the scope of the configurations disclosed herein. Figures 2A-2D The configurations of the first and second sensors 130 and 132 depicted in FIG. 1.

[0043] Reference is first made to Figure 2AThe diagram illustrates a configuration 200 in which a first sensor 130 can send serial individual signals to a first logic block 202. In the case where the first sensor 130 is a single-axis sensor (such as a single-axis accelerometer), the first sensor 130 can transmit a single signal 206 corresponding to the measurement obtained by the first sensor 130 to the first logic block 202. The first logic block 202 can determine whether the orientation of the first sensor 130 is outside a first predetermined orientation range. Furthermore, the first logic block 202 can output a first notification 208 indicating whether the orientation of the first sensor 130 is within or outside the first predetermined orientation range. In other words, the first logic block 202 can output the first notification 208 to instruct the controller 120 to enable or disable the motor 102.

[0044] When the first sensor 130 is a multi-axis sensor (such as a multi-axis accelerometer), the first sensor 130 can serially transmit signals corresponding to multiple axes to the first logic block 202. That is, for example, the first sensor 130 can output a signal 206 continuously composed of a first subset of signals corresponding to a first orientation along a first axis (e.g., the X-axis), a second subset of signals corresponding to a second orientation along a second axis (e.g., the Y-axis), and a third subset of signals corresponding to a third orientation along a third axis (e.g., the Z-axis). The first logic block 202 can determine whether any orientation of the first sensor 130 is outside a corresponding first predetermined orientation range. Additionally, the first logic block 202 can output a first notification 208 indicating whether any orientation of the first sensor 130 is within or outside the first predetermined orientation range.

[0045] For example Figure 2A As shown, in configuration 200, the second sensor 132 can send serial individual signals to the second logic block 204. If the second sensor 132 is a single-axis sensor (such as a single-axis accelerometer), the second sensor 132 can transmit a single signal 210 corresponding to the measurement result obtained by the second sensor 132 to the second logic block 204. The second logic block 204 can determine whether the orientation of the second sensor 132 is outside a second predetermined orientation range. Furthermore, the second logic block 204 can output a second notification 212 indicating whether the orientation of the second sensor 132 is within or outside the second predetermined orientation range.

[0046] In the case where the second sensor 132 is a multi-axis sensor, such as a multi-axis accelerometer, the second sensor 132 can serially transmit signals corresponding to multiple axes to the second logic block 204. That is, for example, the second sensor 132 can output a signal 210 that is composed of a first signal subset corresponding to a first orientation along a first axis (e.g., an X-axis), a second signal subset corresponding to a second orientation along a second axis (e.g., a Y-axis), and a third signal subset corresponding to a third orientation along a third axis (e.g., a Z-axis) consecutively. The second logic block 204 can determine whether any of the orientations of the second sensor 132 are outside of a respective second predetermined orientation range. Further, the second logic block 204 can output a second notification 212 indicating whether any of the orientations of the second sensor 132 are within or outside of the second predetermined orientation range. In any of these examples, the controller 120 can enable or disable activation of the electric motor 102 based on whether the first signal 206 indicates that the first element 110 is in an orientation outside of the first predetermined orientation range and / or whether the second notification 212 indicates that the second element 106 is in an orientation outside of the second predetermined orientation range.

[0047] Reference is now made to Figure 2B which shows a configuration 220 in which the first sensor 130 and the second sensor 132 are multi-axis sensors that output multiple sensor readings to the first logic block 202 and the second logic block 204, respectively. As shown, the first sensor 130 can output discrete individual signals 214 corresponding to multiple detected orientations to the first logic block 202. In particular, the discrete individual signals 214 can include a first signal corresponding to a first axis (e.g., an X-axis), a second signal corresponding to a second axis (e.g., a Y-axis), and a third signal corresponding to a third axis (e.g., a Z-axis). The first logic block 202 can determine whether any of the orientations of the first sensor 130 are outside of a respective first predetermined orientation range. Further, the first logic block 202 can output a first notification 208 indicating whether any of the orientations of the first sensor 130 are within or outside of the first predetermined orientation range.

[0048] Also as Figure 2BAs shown, the second sensor 132 can output discrete individual signals 216 corresponding to the plurality of detected orientations to the second logic block 204. In particular, the discrete individual signals 216 can include a first signal corresponding to a first axis (e.g., the X-axis), a second signal corresponding to a second axis (e.g., the Y-axis), and a third signal corresponding to a third axis (e.g., the Z-axis). The second logic block 204 can determine whether any of the orientations of the second sensor 132 are outside of a respective first predetermined orientation range. Further, the second logic block 204 can output a second notification 212 indicating whether any of the orientations of the second sensor 132 are within or outside of the second predetermined orientation range. In any of these examples, the controller 120 can enable or disable activation of the electric motor 102 based on whether the first signals 206 and / or the second notification 212 indicate that the orientation of the first element 110 is outside of the first predetermined orientation range and / or the orientation of the second element 106 is outside of the second predetermined orientation range.

[0049] In some examples, and as shown in FIG. 1, the first sensor 130 can be a first gyroscope 130a and the second sensor 132 can be a second gyroscope 132a. In these examples, the first gyroscope 130a can output a first signal 206 corresponding to a plurality of detected orientations of the first element 110. In particular, the first signal 206 can include a first signal corresponding to a first axis (e.g., the X-axis), a second signal corresponding to a second axis (e.g., the Y-axis), and a third signal corresponding to a third axis (e.g., the Z-axis). The first logic block 202 can determine whether any of the orientations of the first gyroscope 130a are outside of a respective first predetermined orientation range. Further, the first logic block 202 can output a first notification 210 indicating whether any of the orientations of the first gyroscope 130a are within or outside of the first predetermined orientation range. Figure 2C and 2D As shown, the first logic block 202 can be daisy-chained with the second logic block 204. In particular, Figure 2C and 2D FIGS. 2 and 3 respectively illustrate configurations 230 and 240 in which the first logic block 202 is daisy-chained with the second logic block 204 through the connection 218. In these configurations 230, 240, the first logic block 202 can communicate the first notification to the second logic block 204 through the connection 218. That is, the first logic block 202 can communicate the first notification to the second logic block 204 indicating whether the orientation of the first sensor 130 is within or outside of one or more first predetermined orientation ranges. In some examples, the second logic block 204 can output the first notification and the second notification to the controller 120, as indicated by reference numeral 222. In other examples, the second logic block 204 can output the second notification to the first logic block 202, and the first logic block 202 can output the first notification and the second notification to the controller 120.

[0050] In other examples, the second logic block 204 can determine whether the first notification indicates that the first sensor 130 is within or outside of one or more of the first predetermined orientation ranges. In the event that the second logic block 204 determines that the first notification indicates that the first sensor 130 is outside of one or more of the first predetermined orientation ranges, the second logic block 204 can output a signal 222 to the controller 120 indicating that the electric motor 102 is to be disabled. Likewise, in the event that the second logic block 204 determines that the second sensor 132 is within or outside of one or more of the second predetermined orientation ranges, the second logic block 204 can output a signal 222 to the controller 120 indicating that the electric motor 102 is to be disabled.

[0051] Although the first logic block 202 has been depicted as being separate from the first sensor 130 in Figures 2A-2D It should be appreciated that in some examples, the first logic block 202 can instead be integrated with the first sensor 130 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Likewise, although the second logic block 204 has been depicted as being separate from the second sensor 132, it should be appreciated that in some examples, the second logic block 204 can instead be integrated with the second sensor 132 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0052] According to examples, the controller 120 can perform the functions of either or both of the first logic block 202 and the second logic block 204. In particular, the first sensor 130 can communicate a first signal 206 corresponding to a measured orientation of the first sensor 130 to the controller 120. Additionally, the controller 120 can determine whether the orientation of the first sensor 130 identified by the first signal is within a first predetermined orientation range or outside of the first predetermined orientation range. In some examples, the first sensor 130 can communicate one or more signals 214 corresponding to a plurality of orientations of the first sensor 130 along a plurality of axes to the controller 120. In these examples, the controller 120 can determine whether any of the orientations of the first sensor 130 are outside of a plurality of first predetermined orientations corresponding to the plurality of axes. In any of these examples, the first logic block 202 can be omitted, such that the first sensor 130 can directly communicate with the controller 120.

[0053] Additionally or alternatively, the second sensor 132 can communicate a second signal 210 corresponding to a measured orientation of the second sensor 132 to the controller 120. Additionally, the controller 120 can determine whether the position of the second sensor 132 identified by the second signal 210 is within a second predetermined orientation range or outside of the second predetermined orientation range. In some examples, the second sensor 132 can communicate one or more signals 216 corresponding to a plurality of orientations of the second sensor 132 along a plurality of axes to the controller 120. In these examples, the controller 120 can determine whether any of the orientations of the second sensor 132 are outside of a plurality of second predetermined orientations corresponding to the plurality of axes. In any of these examples, the second logic block 204 can be omitted, such that the second sensor 132 can directly communicate with the controller 120.

[0054] In examples where the controller 120 determines that the first sensor 130 is in an orientation outside one or more of the first predetermined range of orientations or that the second sensor 132 is in an orientation outside one or more of the second predetermined range of orientations, the controller 120 can disable operation of the electric motor 102. In other words, when either of these conditions is satisfied, the controller 120 can prevent the electric motor 102 from actuating the work implement 104, even when an operator of the work equipment 100 instructs the controller 120 to do so, for example. However, in examples where the controller 120 determines that the first sensor 130 is in an orientation within each of the first predetermined range of orientations and that the second sensor 132 is in an orientation within each of the second predetermined range of orientations, the controller 120 can enable the electric motor 102 to actuate the work implement 104, for example, when the controller 120 receives an instruction from an operator of the work equipment 100 to do so. As discussed herein, an operator can send an instruction to the controller 120 to actuate the work implement 104 by pulling on the crossbar handle 152 or other mechanism on the first element 110.

[0055] Although the power equipment 100 is depicted in Figures 1A to 1E as a rear-engine lawn mower, it should be understood that the power equipment 100 can be other types of power equipment without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In particular, the power equipment 100 can be any type of power equipment having a first element 110 rotatably mounted to a second element 106, and the second element 106 housing or otherwise supporting a work implement 104. For example, the power equipment 100 can be a snow thrower, a tiller, a cultivator, a string trimmer, a trimmer, an edger, or the like.

[0056] As a particular, non-limiting example, the power equipment 100 can be a string trimmer as shown in Figures 1F to 1H . Figures 1F-1H Perspective views of a string trimmer 100 at a plurality of positions are depicted in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. Figures 1F to 1H The reference numerals shown in Figures 1A to 1E correspond to those shown in Figures 1F-1H , and therefore, all components to which the reference numerals correspond are not described in detail herein. Additionally, it should be understood that the first sensor 130 and the second sensor 132 can be housed within the first element 110 and the second element 106, respectively, and therefore, are not visible in .

[0057] As discussed above, the first sensor 130 and the second sensor 132 can be configured to detect an orientation of the first element 110 and the second element 106, respectively, relative to a predetermined range of orientations. Figure 1FAs shown, the string trimmer 100 is depicted as including a first element 110 and a second element 106. The second element 106 is also depicted as supporting a motor 102 and a work implement 104. The work implement 104 is a rotating member attached to the motor 102, where one or more stringing can extend out of the work implement 104. The first element 110 is also depicted as being rotatably mounted to the second element 106, as indicated by arrow 112. In particular, a user can press a locking mechanism 114 to release the second element 106 from a locked engagement with the first element 110. After releasing the second element 106 from the first element 110, the second element 106 can be rotated or tilted relative to the first element 110, as indicated by arrow 116. The first element 110 can be a handle, and the second element 106 can be a head. Figure 1G As shown.

[0058] As discussed herein, the first sensor 130 can detect an orientation of the first element 110, and the second sensor 132 can detect an orientation of the second element 106. According to an example, the first sensor 130 and the second sensor 132 can send signals to the controller 120, and the controller 120 can disable the motor 102 if the signals indicate that the first element 110 and / or the second element 106 are outside of respective predetermined orientation ranges. For example, when the first element 110 and the second element 106 are oriented as Figure 1F indicated, the controller 120 can enable the motor 102, and when the first element 110 and the second element 106 are oriented as Figure 1G indicated, the controller 120 can disable the motor 102.

[0059] Additionally, the second element 106 can continue to be rotated or folded relative to the first element 110, as Figure 1H indicated, the first element 110 can be a storage position. In the storage position, the controller 120 can also disable the motor 102 to prevent inadvertent operation of the string trimmer 100. In some examples, the controller 120 can compare relative positions of the first element 110 and the second element 106 to determine whether to enable or disable the motor 102. In these examples, when the relative positions are as Figure 1F indicated, the controller 120 can enable the motor 102, and when the relative positions are as Figure 1G and 1H indicated, the controller 120 can disable the motor 102.

[0060] Reference is now made to Figure 3 which shows a flowchart of a method 300 for controlling a motor 102 in a power equipment 100, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. It should be understood that Figure 3 the method 300 depicted in FIG. 3 can include additional operations, and some of the operations described therein can be removed and / or modified without departing from the scope of the method 300. For illustrative purposes, reference is made toFigures 1A to 2D The description of the method 300 is made with reference to the features depicted.

[0061] At block 302, the controller 120 can receive a first signal 206 (or a first notification 208) corresponding to a detected orientation of a first sensor 130 positioned on a first element 110 of the power equipment 100. The power equipment 100 can include a motor 102 to actuate a work implement 104 of the power equipment 100. As discussed herein, the controller 120 can receive the first signal 206 directly from the first sensor 130 or the controller 120 can receive the first notification 208 from a first logic block 202 associated with the first sensor 130. Alternatively, the controller 120 can receive the first signal 206 (or the first notification 208) from a second logic block 204 daisy-chained to the first logic block 202.

[0062] At block 304, the controller 120 can receive a second signal 210 (or a second notification 212) corresponding to a detected orientation of a second sensor 132 positioned on a second element 106 of the power equipment 100. As discussed herein, the controller 120 can receive the second signal 210 directly from the second sensor 132 or the controller 120 can receive the second notification 212 from a second logic block 204 associated with the second sensor 132. Alternatively, the controller 120 can receive the second signal 210 (or the second notification 212) from the first logic block 202 daisy-chained to the second logic block 204.

[0063] At block 306, the controller 120 can determine whether to enable or disable the electric motor 102 based on the first signal 206 (the first notification 208) and the second signal 210 (the second notification 212). That is, the controller 120 can determine whether the orientation of either of the first sensor 130 and the second sensor 132 as indicated in the first signal 206 (the first notification 208) and the second signal 210 (the second notification 212), respectively, is outside of the respective predetermined orientation range. In the case where the first sensor 130 includes the first logic block 202, the first notification 208 can include an indication as to whether one or more of the orientations of the first sensor 130 is within one or more of the first predetermined orientation ranges. Likewise, in the case where the second sensor 132 includes the second logic block 204, the second notification 212 can include an indication as to whether one or more of the orientations of the second sensor 132 is within one or more of the second predetermined orientation ranges. In these cases, the controller 120 can determine whether one or more of the orientations of the first sensor 130 is outside of one or more of the first predetermined orientation ranges based on the indication identified in the first notification 208. Likewise, the controller 120 can determine whether one or more of the orientations of the second sensor 132 is outside of one or more of the second predetermined orientation ranges based on the indication identified in the second notification 212.

[0064] In the case where the first sensor 130 does not include the first logic block 202 or the controller 120 determines whether the orientations of the first sensor 130 are outside of the first predetermined orientation range, the first sensor 130 can communicate the detected orientations of the first sensor 130 to the controller 120. For example, the first sensor 130 can output a first value corresponding to the detected orientations of the first sensor 130 to the controller 120. Likewise, in the case where the second sensor 132 does not include the second logic block 204 or the controller 120 determines whether the orientations of the second sensor 132 are outside of the second predetermined orientation range, the second sensor 132 can communicate the detected orientations of the second sensor 132 to the controller 120. For example, the second sensor 132 can output a second value corresponding to the detected orientations of the second sensor 132 to the controller 120.

[0065] Additionally, the controller 120 can determine whether the first value indicates that the first sensor 130 is in an orientation that is within the first predetermined orientation range. The controller 120 can also determine whether the second value indicates that the second sensor 132 is in an orientation that is within the second predetermined orientation range. The controller 120 can compare the first value to a first range of values corresponding to the first predetermined orientation range and compare the second value to a second range of values corresponding to the second predetermined orientation range.

[0066] In any of the above examples, based on a determination that the orientation of the first sensor 130 is outside the first predetermined orientation range and / or the orientation of the second sensor 132 is outside the second predetermined orientation range, at block 308, the controller 120 can disable the electric motor 102. That is, the controller 120 can prevent the electric motor 102 from actuating the work implement 104 even when the operator pulls the horizontal bar handle 152 on the power device 100. However, based on a determination that the orientation of the first sensor 130 is within the first predetermined orientation range and the orientation of the second sensor 132 is within the second predetermined orientation range, at block 310, the controller 120 can enable the electric motor 102. That is, the controller 120 can enable the electric motor 102 to actuate the work implement 104, e.g., when the operator pulls the horizontal bar handle 152 after the power device 100 has been started.

[0067] Some or all of the operations illustrated in the method 300 can be included in any desired computer-accessible medium as utility, program, or subprogram. Moreover, the method 300 can be embodied by a computer program, which can exist in a variety of forms both active and inactive. For example, they can exist as machine readable instructions including source code, object code, executable code, or other formats. Any of the foregoing can be embodied on a non-transitory computer readable storage medium.

[0068] Examples of the non-transitory computer readable storage medium include computer system RAM, ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, and magnetic or optical disks or tapes. It is therefore to be understood that any electronic device capable of executing the above-described functions can perform those functions, either directly or indirectly.

[0069] Although specifically described in connection with the present disclosure, representative examples of the present disclosure have utility over a wide range of applications and the above discussion is not intended as a limitation on the scope of the disclosure but rather a description of illustrative aspects of the present disclosure.

[0070] What has been described and illustrated herein is an example of the disclosure along with some of its variants. The terms, descriptions and figures used herein are set forth by way of illustration only and are not meant as limitations. Many variations are possible within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, which was intended to be defined by the following claims and their equivalents in which all terms are meant in their broadest reasonable sense unless otherwise specified.

Claims

1. A power plant, characterized by comprising: a controller; a motor for actuating a work implement; a first element; a second element supporting the motor, wherein the first element is rotatably mounted to the second element; a first sensor positioned to detect an orientation of the first element, wherein the first sensor outputs a first signal to the controller corresponding to the detected orientation of the first element; a second sensor positioned to detect an orientation of the second element, wherein the second sensor outputs a second signal to the controller corresponding to the detected orientation of the second element; and wherein the controller enables or disables the motor based on both the first signal and the second signal. further comprising:

2. The power plant of claim 1, wherein a first logic block in communication with the first sensor, wherein the first logic block: determines whether the orientation of the first element is outside a first predetermined orientation range based on the first signal; generates a first notification to indicate that the first element is outside the first predetermined orientation range based on determining that the first element is outside the first predetermined orientation range; and outputs the first notification to the controller, wherein the controller disables the motor based on receiving the first notification indicating that the orientation of the first element is outside the first predetermined orientation range. the first predetermined orientation range is between about -15° and about 80° relative to a horizontal axis. further comprising:

3. The power plant of claim 2, wherein a second logic block in communication with the second sensor, wherein the second logic block:

4. The power plant of claim 1, wherein determines whether the orientation of the second element is outside a second predetermined orientation range based on the second signal; generates a second notification to indicate that the orientation of the second element is outside the second predetermined orientation range based on determining that the orientation of the second element is outside the second predetermined orientation range; and outputs the second notification to the controller, wherein the controller disables the motor based on receiving the second signal indicating that the orientation of the second element is outside the second predetermined orientation range. the second predetermined orientation range is between about 45° and about -30° relative to a horizontal axis. the controller enables the motor based on the first signal indicating that the orientation of the first element is within the first predetermined orientation range and the second signal indicating that the orientation of the second element is within the second predetermined orientation range. the controller disables the motor based on at least one of the first signal indicating that the orientation of the first element is outside the first predetermined orientation range or the second signal indicating that the orientation of the second element is outside the second predetermined orientation range.

5. The power plant of claim 4, wherein, the first signal indicates the detected orientation of the first element, and wherein the controller:

6. The power plant of claim 1, wherein, determines whether the orientation of the first element is outside a first predetermined orientation range based on the first signal; and 7. The power plant of claim 6, wherein disables the motor based on determining that the orientation of the first element is outside the first predetermined orientation range.

8. The power plant of claim 1, wherein, the second signal indicates the detected orientation of the second element, and wherein the controller: determines whether the orientation of the second element is outside a second predetermined orientation range based on the second signal; and disables the motor based on determining that the orientation of the second element is outside the second predetermined orientation range.

9. The power plant of claim 1, wherein, ​ ​ disable the electric motor based on a determination that the orientation of the second element is outside of the second predetermined range of orientations.

10. A power plant characterized by comprising: a controller; a work implement; an electric motor that rotates the work implement; a first element; a second element that houses the electric motor, wherein the first element is rotatably mounted to the second element; a first sensor mounted to the first element, wherein the first sensor: detects at least one orientation of the first element; and outputs a first signal corresponding to the detected at least one orientation of the first element to the controller; a second sensor mounted to the second element, wherein the second sensor: detects at least one orientation of the second element; and outputs a second signal corresponding to the detected at least one orientation of the second element to the controller; and wherein the controller disables the electric motor based on either the orientation of the first element being outside of at least one first predetermined range of orientations or the orientation of the second element being outside of at least one second predetermined range of orientations. further comprising: a first logic block in communication with the first sensor, wherein the first logic block: receives the at least one orientation of the first sensor; 11. The power plant of claim 10, wherein, determines whether the at least one orientation of the first sensor is outside of one or more first predetermined ranges of orientations; generates the first signal to indicate that the electric motor is to be disabled based on a determination that the at least one orientation of the first sensor is outside of one or more of the first predetermined ranges of orientations; and outputs the first signal to the controller, wherein the controller disables the electric motor based on receiving the first signal indicating that the electric motor is to be disabled. further comprising: a second logic block in communication with the second sensor, wherein the second logic block: receives the at least one orientation of the second sensor; determines whether the at least one orientation of the second sensor is outside of one or more second predetermined ranges of orientations; 12. The power plant of claim 10, wherein, generates the second signal to indicate that the electric motor is to be disabled based on a determination that the at least one orientation of the second sensor is outside of one or more of the second predetermined ranges of orientations; and outputs the second signal to the controller, wherein the controller disables the electric motor based on receiving the second signal indicating that the electric motor is to be disabled. the controller enables the electric motor based on the first signal indicating that the at least one orientation of the first element is within each of a plurality of first predetermined ranges of orientations and the second signal indicating that the at least one orientation of the second element is within each of a plurality of second predetermined ranges of orientations. the first signal indicates the detected orientation of the first element, and wherein the controller: determines whether the at least one orientation of the first element is outside of one or more first predetermined ranges of orientations from the first signal; and disables the electric motor based on a determination that the at least one orientation of the first signal is outside of the one or more first predetermined ranges of orientations. ​ 13. The power plant of claim 10, wherein, ​ 14. The power plant of claim 10, wherein, ​ ​ ​ 15. The power plant of claim 10, wherein, The second signal is indicative of a detected orientation of the second element, and wherein the controller: determines from the second signal whether the at least one orientation of the second element is outside one or more second predetermined orientation ranges; and disables the electric motor based on a determination that the at least one orientation of the second element is outside the one or more second predetermined orientation ranges.

16. The power plant of claim 10, wherein, Each of the first sensor and the second sensor is a tri-axial accelerometer.

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