Cable stripping assembly for removing cable jacket from cable

Abstract

A cable stripping assembly for removing a cable jacket from a cable, the cable stripping assembly comprising: a cable stripping tool including a housing and a motor, the housing including a head and a handle, the head including a central opening defining a central axis and configured to receive the cable, the handle extending from the head, the motor disposed in the head, the motor having a motor shaft extending along a motor axis parallel to the central axis; an adjustable bushing coupled to the head and having a central opening in communication with the head of the housing and extending along the central axis, wherein actuation of the motor drives rotation of the adjustable bushing; and a blade mounted to the adjustable bushing and configured to extend partially into the central opening of the adjustable bushing to engage the cable.

Description

[0001] Cross-application of related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to co-pending U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 718,875, filed November 11, 2024, and co-pending U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 574,471, filed April 4, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This utility model relates to a cable stripper, and more specifically to a system and method for stripping the cable sheath from a sheathed cable. Background Technology

[0004] Cables are commonly used to transmit electrical energy from sources such as power grids, power plants, and / or generators. Other cables can be used to transmit electrical signals from one location to another. Some cables include a thick conductive core surrounded by a network of secondary conductors and encased in a cable sheath that helps prevent interference from direct contact with the cable and shields the cable from the environment. The rigidity of the cable sheath and the combination of materials surrounding the cable core can make such cables difficult to handle and / or difficult to bend or reshape. Utility Model Content

[0005] In one aspect, the present invention provides a cable stripping tool assembly including a handle and a head coupled to the handle, the handle including a battery interface. The head includes a body housing a motor, a bushing coupled to the body, and a depth stop system coupled to the body. The bushing includes a blade assembly having a blade and a blade adjustment assembly.

[0006] In some aspects, the present invention relates to a cable stripping assembly for removing cable sheaths from cables, the cable stripping assembly comprising: a cable stripping tool including a housing and a motor, the housing including a head and a handle, the head including a central opening defining a central axis and configured to receive a cable, the handle extending from the head, the motor disposed in the head, the motor having a motor shaft extending along a motor axis parallel to the central axis; an adjustable bushing coupled to the head and having a central opening communicating with the head of the housing and extending along the central axis, wherein actuation of the motor drives the adjustable bushing to rotate; and a blade mounted to the adjustable bushing and configured to partially extend into the central opening of the adjustable bushing to engage a cable.

[0007] In some aspects, the present invention relates to a cable stripping assembly for removing cable sheaths from cables, the cable stripping assembly comprising: a cable stripping tool including a housing and a motor, the housing including a head and a handle, the head including a central opening defining a central axis and configured to receive a cable, the handle extending from the head, and the motor disposed within the housing; an adjustable bushing coupled to the head and having a central opening communicating with the head of the housing and extending along the central axis, wherein actuation of the motor drives the adjustable bushing to rotate; a blade mounted to the adjustable bushing and configured to partially extend into the central opening of the adjustable bushing to engage a cable; and a depth stop system supported by the head, the depth stop system including a tube receivable within the central opening and movable within the central opening between a first position and a second position, and a clamping assembly configured to lock the tube relative to the head in the first and second positions.

[0008] In some aspects, the present invention relates to a cable stripping assembly for removing cable sheaths from cables, the cable stripping assembly comprising: a cable stripping tool including a housing and a motor, the housing including a head and a handle, the head including a central opening defining a central axis and configured to receive the cable, the handle extending from the head, and the motor disposed within the housing; an adjustable bushing coupled to the head and having a central opening communicating with the head of the housing and extending along the central axis, wherein actuation of the motor drives the adjustable bushing to rotate; and a blade mounted to the adjustable bushing and configured to partially... Extending into the central opening of an adjustable bushing to engage a cable, the blade has a body including a first end, a second end opposite to the first end extending into the central opening and movable relative to the central opening, a first leg extending between the first end and the second end, a second leg extending laterally from the first leg, a first cutting edge positioned at the second end and defined by the first leg, and a second cutting edge positioned at the second end and extending along the first leg and the second leg from the first cutting edge, the first cutting edge extending in a first plane, and the second cutting edge extending in a second plane positioned at a non-perpendicular angle relative to the first plane.

[0009] Other features and aspects of this invention will become apparent from careful reading of the following detailed description and accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0010] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a cable stripping assembly according to one embodiment, the cable stripping assembly including a depth stop system and a blade adjustment assembly.

[0011] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A detailed perspective view of a portion of the cable stripping assembly.

[0012] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of a portion of the cable stripping assembly.

[0013] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 An exploded view of the pipe of the depth stop system.

[0014] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 Another cross-sectional view of a portion of the cable stripping assembly.

[0015] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 A detailed perspective view of the locking clamp of the depth stop system.

[0016] Figure 7 Is it through Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of the locking clamp.

[0017] Figure 8 yes Figure 1 A detailed perspective view of a part of the depth-stopping system.

[0018] Figure 9 Is with Figure 1 A perspective view of a locking clamp used in conjunction with a depth stop system.

[0019] Figure 10 Is with Figure 1 A perspective view of another locking clamp used in conjunction with the depth stop system.

[0020] Figure 11 Is with Figure 1 A perspective view of another locking clamp used in conjunction with the depth stop system.

[0021] Figure 12 yes Figure 11 A 3D view of the locking clamp, with some parts removed for clarity.

[0022] Figure 13 yes Figure 11 The locking clamp relative to Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the pipe of the depth stop system.

[0023] Figure 14A The image shows the user inserting the cable to be stripped. Figure 1 In the cable stripping assembly.

[0024] Figure 14B It shows the user pushing the cable through. Figure 1 Cable stripping assembly.

[0025] Figure 14C This shows the user continuing to push the cable through. Figure 1 Cable stripping assembly.

[0026] Figure 14D The image shows the user removing the stripped cable. Figure 1 Cable stripping assembly.

[0027] Figure 15 Is with Figure 1 A perspective view of a blade adjustment assembly used in conjunction with a cable stripping assembly.

[0028] Figure 16 yes Figure 15 Another perspective view of the blade adjustment assembly, with parts removed for clarity.

[0029] Figure 17 yes Figure 15 Another perspective view of the blade adjustment assembly.

[0030] Figure 18 yes Figure 15 Another perspective view of the blade adjustment assembly.

[0031] Figure 19 Is with Figure 1 A perspective view of another blade adjustment assembly used in conjunction with the cable stripping assembly.

[0032] Figure 20 yes Figure 19 A cross-sectional view of the blade adjustment assembly.

[0033] Figure 21 yes Figure 19 Another cross-sectional view of the blade adjustment assembly.

[0034] Figure 22 yes Figure 19 A perspective view of the blade adjustment assembly, with some parts removed for clarity.

[0035] Figure 23 yes Figure 19 Another perspective view of the blade adjustment assembly.

[0036] Figure 24 This is a perspective view of a cable stripping assembly according to another embodiment, which includes a depth stop system and a blade adjustment assembly.

[0037] Figure 25 yes Figure 24 Another perspective view of the cable stripping assembly.

[0038] Figure 26 yes Figure 24 A three-dimensional view of a portion of a cable stripping assembly.

[0039] Figure 27A yes Figure 24 A cross-sectional view of the cable stripping assembly.

[0040] Figure 27B yes Figure 24 A cross-sectional view of a portion of the cable stripping assembly.

[0041] Figure 27C yes Figure 24 Another cross-sectional view of a portion of the cable stripping assembly.

[0042] Figure 28 yes Figure 24 A 3D view of a portion of the cable stripping assembly; parts have been removed for clarity.

[0043] Figure 29 yes Figure 24 A cross-sectional view of the depth stop system of the cable stripping assembly.

[0044] Figure 30 yes Figure 24 A detailed perspective view of a portion of the cable stripping assembly.

[0045] Figure 31 yes Figure 24 A detailed cross-sectional view of a portion of the bushing and blade adjustment assembly of the cable stripping assembly.

[0046] Figure 32 It is in the first position. Figure 24 A cross-sectional view of the blade adjustment assembly.

[0047] Figure 33 It is in the second position. Figure 24 A cross-sectional view of the blade adjustment assembly.

[0048] Figure 34 It shows Figure 24 A 3D view of the blade of the cable stripping assembly.

[0049] Figure 35 yes Figure 34 A 3D view of the blade.

[0050] Figure 36 yes Figure 34 A view of the working end of the blade.

[0051] Figure 37 yes Figure 34 A plan view of the blade.

[0052] Figure 38 yes Figure 34 Detailed plan view of the blade.

[0053] Figure 39 yes Figure 34 Another plan view of the blade.

[0054] Figure 40 yes Figure 34 Another plan view of the blade.

[0055] Figure 41 yes Figure 34 A detailed 3D view of the blade.

[0056] Figure 42 yes Figure 34 Side view of the blade.

[0057] Figure 43 yes Figure 24 A detailed perspective view of the clamping component of the cable stripping assembly.

[0058] Figure 44 yes Figure 43 A detailed perspective view of the clamping components, with some parts removed.

[0059] Figure 45 yes Figure 43 A cross-sectional view of the clamping component.

[0060] Figure 46 Is with Figure 24 A schematic diagram of another clamping component used in conjunction with the cable stripping component.

[0061] Figure 47 A perspective view of a cable stripping assembly according to another embodiment is shown, the cable stripping assembly including a bushing and a blade adjustment assembly.

[0062] Figure 48 yes Figure 47 A three-dimensional view of a portion of a cable stripping assembly.

[0063] Figure 49 yes Figure 47 Rear view of the cable stripping assembly.

[0064] Figure 50 yes Figure 47 A cross-sectional view of a portion of the cable stripping assembly.

[0065] Before explaining any embodiment of this utility model in detail, it should be understood that this utility model is not limited to its application in the details of the construction and arrangement of the components described in the following description or shown in the drawings. This utility model can have other embodiments and can be practiced or implemented in various ways. Furthermore, it should be understood that the wording and terminology used in this utility model are for illustrative purposes and should not be considered restrictive. Detailed Implementation

[0066] Cables are used to transmit electrical signals and power over long distances and typically consist of conductors protected by a cable sheath. To connect multiple cables for electrical communication between them, the conductors are exposed by removing the cable sheath. Figure 1-18 A cable stripping assembly 10 for removing the cable sheath from a cable is shown. The accompanying drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the assembly 10; however, the configuration and components of the assembly 10 are not limited to the embodiments discussed and shown in this invention, and may include variations not specifically described.

[0067] See Figure 1-3 The cable stripping assembly 10 includes a cable stripping tool 12 and a battery 14 coupled to the cable stripping tool 12 to power it. The tool 12 includes a handle 18 extending between a first end 22 and a second end 26, and a head 30 coupled to the second end 26. The first end 22 of the handle 18 includes a battery receiving interface configured to removably couple to the battery 14. The head 30 includes a body 34, an adjustable bushing 38, and a depth stop system 42. The body 34 includes a motor housing 46 and a defining central channel 54. Figure 3 The through section 50. Motor 58 ( Figure 3 The motor 58 is positioned within the motor housing 46 and electrically coupled to the battery 14 to transmit rotation to the gear train 62. An adjustable bushing 38 is coupled to a through portion 50 adjacent to the front of the head 30. The adjustable bushing 38 is coupled to the gear train 62, allowing rotation of the motor 58 to be transmitted to the bushing 38 via the gear train 62. The cable end is fed into the adjustable bushing 38 along the channel axis 66 of the central channel 54. The adjustable bushing 38 includes a blade assembly 70 that scratches the cable sheath as the tool advances along the cable.

[0068] See Figure 3-6 The depth stop system 42 can be configured to adjust the stripping length of the cable stripping operation (e.g., the amount of cable sheath removed by tool 12). In other words, the depth stop system 42 limits the distance the cable stripping tool 12 can travel along the cable. See also Figure 4 The depth stop system 42 includes a tube 74 extending along axis 66 between a front end 78 and a rear end 82, a front plug 86 coupled to the front end 78, and a rear plug 90 coupled to the rear end 82. The tube 74 is positioned to move (e.g., slide) within the central channel 54 along axis 66. The tube 74 slides to... Figure 3 The stretching position shown and Figure 5 The diagram shows a plurality of positions between the contracted positions. In the contracted position, the front end 78 and the front plug 86 of the tube 74 are adjacent to the bushing 38, and most of the tube 74 is received within the central channel 54. In the extended position, the front end 78 and the front plug 86 of the tube 74 are adjacent to the rear portion of the central channel 54, and most of the tube 74 extends rearward out of the central channel 54.

[0069] See also Figure 3-6 The front plug 86 can be press-fitted into the front end 78 of the tube 74. The front plug 86 includes a support surface 98 configured to engage the end of the cable in the insertion tool 12. The front plug 86 can be formed of a durable material such as steel to withstand wear. The rear plug 90 can be press-fitted into the rear end 82 of the tube 74. The rear plug 90 may include a flange 102 that engages the rear end of the through portion 50 of the body 34 to limit the range of movement of the tube 74 along the channel axis 66, thereby keeping at least a portion of the tube 74 outside the central channel 54.

[0070] See Figure 6 The tube 74 may have a non-circular outer profile, with corresponding features in its engagement body 34 preventing the tube 74 from rotating about axis 66. The tube 74 may be a hollow tube formed of a metallic material. The hollow construction reduces the weight of the tool 12, making it easier for the user to support the tool 12 to engage the cable. In other embodiments, the tube 74 may be constructed in other ways. The tube 74 further includes markings or notations 94 along the channel axis 66, indicating a plurality of stripping lengths corresponding to the position of the tube 74. The foremost visible marking 94a may indicate the stripping length obtained at that position of the tube 74. In some embodiments, the tube 74 may be sized to allow stripping strips between 1 inch and 6 inches. In other embodiments, the tube 74 may be longer or shorter. The tube 74 may be removably coupled to the through portion 50 and may be removed when a longer length of cable stripping is required.

[0071] See Figure 7-8 The depth stop system 42 further includes a locking clamp 106 configured to engage the tube 74 to secure the position of the tube 74 relative to the central channel 54 and the blade assembly 70. The locking clamp 106 is coupled to the rear end of the through portion 50 of the body 34. In the illustrated embodiment, the locking clamp 106 includes a clamp body 110 and a lever 114 adjacent to the clamp body 110. The clamp body 110 includes a partial ring surrounding a central opening 118 of the receiving tube 74. The partial ring of the clamp body 110 is separated by a gap 122, and the clamp body 110 is configured to deflect to close the gap 122. The lever 114 includes a cam surface 126 configured to engage an end portion 130 of the clamp body 110 adjacent to the gap 122. Rotation of the lever 114 causes the cam surface 126 to engage the end portion 130 of the clamp body 110 and close the gap 122, reducing the diameter of the central opening 118 and clamping the outer surface of the tube 74. In the illustrated embodiment, the locking clamp 106 includes a spring 132 configured to bias the clamp body 110 to an open or unclamped position, thereby widening the gap 122 and allowing the tube 74 to slide within the central opening 118.

[0072] In other embodiments, the locking clamp 106 may use different mechanisms to secure the tube relative to the through portion 50 and the blade assembly 70. For example, in Figure 9 In the locking clamp 106a, an over-center latching mechanism 131 may be included. When in the open position, the over-center latching mechanism 131 expands to allow the tube 74 to move through it, and when in the closed position, the over-center latching mechanism 131 secures the tube 74 in the desired position. Figure 10 In this context, the locking clamp 106b may include the set screw 132 of the engaging tube 74. Figure 11-13 In this configuration, the locking clamp 106c may include a support 133, a locking nut 133a, and a tapered washer 133b coupled to the through portion 50. The support 133 includes a channel 133d communicating with the central channel 54. The channel 133d includes an end having a tapered surface 133e. The tapered washer 133b is received by the tapered surface 133e of the channel 133d. The locking nut 133a is rotatable relative to the support 133 to clamp the surface of the tapered washer 133b against the tapered surface 133e of the channel 133d. Further variations may be used to fix the position of the tube and inhibit movement of the tube along the channel axis.

[0073] Figures 14A-14D The operation of the cable stripping assembly 10 engaged with the depth stop system 42 is illustrated. As the cable travels into the center channel 54, the blade assembly 70 engages the outer surface of the cable and removes the cable sheath, causing spiral scrap to exit the bushing 38. The tool 12 advances along the cable until the end of the cable engages the support surface 98 of the front plug 86 of the depth stop system 42. At this point, the tool 12 can remain in its deepest position until the blade assembly 70 has circumferentially etched the cable sheath, causing scrap to separate from the cable and leaving the exposed conductor as the tool 12 is removed from the cable end.

[0074] See Figure 15-18 The blade assembly 70 may be adjustable and includes a blade 134 and a blade adjustment assembly 138 capable of changing the cutting depth of the blade 134 (e.g., the distance between the cutting edge of the blade 134 and the channel axis 66). In the illustrated embodiment, the blade 134 is pivotally coupled to a bushing 38 for rotation about a blade axis 142. A spring 146 presses the rear end of the blade 134 to bias the blade 134 toward the channel axis 66. The blade 134 also includes a blade lifter pin 150 mounted eccentrically relative to the blade axis 142. Movement of the blade lifter pin 150 causes the blade 134 to rotate about the blade axis 142.

[0075] The blade adjustment assembly 138 includes a knob 154, which is located outside the bushing 38 and accessible to the operator. The knob 154 is mounted for rotation about a knob axis 156. The knob 154 is further mounted for translation along the knob axis 156, or in other words, for pushing in along the knob axis 156. Figure 18 As shown, knob 154 includes a knob crown gear 158 mounted thereon. A second crown gear 160 is positioned adjacent to knob 154 such that when knob 154 is pushed in, knob crown gear 158 engages second crown gear 160. A spring 164 may be included to bias knob 154 to an outward / disengaged position. When knob 154 moves to the inward position and crown gears 158, 160 engage, stop pin 168 may produce an audible sound. Second crown gear 160 is the first end of adjusting gear train 172, which is configured to transmit rotation from knob 154 to screw 176. In the illustrated embodiment, gear train 172 includes multiple gears, and the gears may have a 1:1 gear ratio. In other embodiments, the gears may vary torque or rotational speed as rotation is transmitted through gear train 172. In the illustrated embodiment, gear train 172 reverses the user-supplied rotation, so the movement of blade 134 is intuitive (e.g., a tightening rotation of knob 154 causes blade 134 to be lifted away from channel axis 66). Additionally, gear train 172 may include enough gears to create an offset between screw 176 and knob 154, thereby advantageously positioning knob 154 relative to other features of bushing 38. Screw 176 extends along screw axis 180 and includes external threads. U-clamp 184 is mounted to screw 176 and includes an internal thread profile, so rotation of screw 176 causes linear displacement of U-clamp 184 along screw axis 180. U-clamp 184 includes slot 188 and is mounted such that slot 188 engages blade lift pin 150, and the linear movement of U-clamp 184 causes blade lift pin 150 to rotate blade 134 about blade axis 142.

[0076] During operation, the user pushes knob 154 in along knob axis 156 until a click is heard from pin 168 indicating that crown gears 158 and 160 are engaged. The user then rotates knob 154 in the desired direction, and the rotation is transmitted through the engagement of crown gears 158 and 160 to adjusting gear train 172 and then to screw 176. Rotation of screw 176 causes U-clamp 184 to translate along screw axis 180 and engage blade lifting pin 150, causing blade 134 to pivot about blade axis 142 and change the cutting depth. Once blade 134 is in the desired position, knob 154 is pulled out or released and biased to travel outward along knob axis 156 to disengage crown gears 158 and 160. This prevents screw 176 from being reverse-driven by U-clamp 184. Therefore, the pressure applied to the blade 134 by the cable is transmitted via the blade lifting pin 150 to the U-clamp 184, which is held in place by the screw 176 and does not move along the screw axis 180, thereby preventing the blade 134 from rotating about the blade axis 142. Additionally, the spring 164 biases the blade 134 relative to the U-clamp 184 to prevent the blade 134 from wobbling within the slot 188 during operation. The knob 154 of the blade adjusting assembly 138 prevents accidental adjustment of the blade position (e.g., by moving away from the spiral scrap sheath of the bushing 38 or by accidental touch of the knob 154 by the user) by requiring the knob 154 to be pushed in and held to allow adjustment of the blade 134's position.

[0077] In some cases, the blade 134 may need to be removed from the bushing 38. The user can remove the screw that serves as the pivot point for the blade 134. Then, the blade 134 can be lifted away from the bushing 38 because the slot 188 in the U-clamp 184 allows the blade 134 to easily disengage from the blade adjusting assembly 138. The blade 134 can then be maintained, repaired, or replaced with a new blade.

[0078] Figure 19-23An alternative embodiment of the blade assembly 200, including blade 204 and blade adjustment assembly 208, is shown. Blade 204 is mounted to bushing 38 for pivoting about blade axis 212. In the illustrated embodiment, blade 204 is pivotally mounted on pivot pin 216 defining blade axis 212. Nut or flange 220 is positioned at the end of pivot pin 216, and locking lever 224 is coupled to pivot pin 216 at the opposite end. In the illustrated embodiment, pivot pin 216 is threaded, and locking lever 224 includes internal threads that engage with the threaded pivot pin 216. Rotation of locking lever 224 about pivot pin 216 causes locking lever 224 to move toward flange 220, thereby clamping blade 204 therebetween. Thus, blade 204 is only allowed to pivot when locking lever 224 is moved to the unlocked position. The locking lever 224 includes a lever tab 228, the dimensions of which are designed based on the torque specifications of the pivot pin 216 to provide the torque required to hold the blade 204.

[0079] The blade adjustment assembly 208 further includes a threaded support rod 236 coupled to a bushing 38. Figure 21 ) to travel through the threaded insert 238 ( Figure 22 A turntable 232 is used. A support rod 236 engages the blade 204 in one of a plurality of positions. The blade 204 can be biased by a spring (not shown) to engage with the support rod 236. Rotation of the turntable 232 causes linear movement of the threaded support rod 236 relative to the bushing 38, which adjusts the position of the blade 204. An insert 238 supporting the threaded support rod 236 may be formed of steel to prevent wear on the threads. Once the blade 204 is positioned, a locking lever 224 is engaged to clamp the blade 204 in said position. The spring and the threaded support rod 236 provide auxiliary support to reduce sway or play of the blade 204 during operation.

[0080] In cases where removal of the blade 204 is necessary for replacement or maintenance, a slot 240 is provided on either side of the blade 204 to facilitate the removal of the blade 204 and the pivot pin 216. Specifically, the locking lever 224 is rotated and removed from the pivot pin 216, which releases the clamp on the blade 204. The blade 204 and the pivot pin 216 can then be easily lifted from the slot 240. The pivot pin 216 can then be separated from the blade 204 if needed. These components can then be repaired or replaced.

[0081] Overall, Figure 19-23 The blade adjustment assembly provides a secure hold for the blade 204 and prevents accidental adjustment of the cutting depth by including a separate clamp (locking lever 224) and adjustment interface (turntable 232). The assembly is also easy to operate and maintain.

[0082] See Figure 24-45 The image illustrates a cable stripping assembly 310 according to another embodiment. The cable stripping assembly 310 includes a cable stripping tool 312 and a battery 314 coupled to the cable stripping tool 312 to power it. The tool 312 includes a handle 318 extending between a first end 322 and a second end 326, and a head 330 coupled to the second end 326. The first end 322 of the handle 318 includes a battery receiving interface 314a configured to removably couple the battery 314. The head 330 includes a front end 332, a rear end 333, a body 334, an adjustable bushing 338, and a depth stop system 342. The body 334 includes a motor housing 346 extending between the front end 332 and the rear end 333, and a through portion 350 extending between the front end 332 and the rear end 333. The through portion 350 defines a central channel 354 extending between the front end 332 and the rear end 333. Figure 27A and 27B Motor 358 Figure 27A and 27B The motor 358 is positioned within the motor housing 346 and actuated by an actuator 356 (e.g., a trigger). The motor 358 is electrically coupled to the battery 14 to transmit rotation to the gear train 362. Figure 27B An adjustable bushing 338 is coupled to the through portion 350 at or adjacent to the front end 332 of the head 330. The adjustable bushing 38 is coupled to a gear train 362, which transmits rotation of the motor 358 to the bushing 338 via the gear train 362. The cable end is fed into the adjustable bushing 338 along the channel axis 366 of the central channel 354. The adjustable bushing 338 includes a blade assembly 370 that engraves on the cable sheath as the tool advances along the cable.

[0083] Bushing 338 includes a body 339, a clamping assembly 340, and a blade assembly 370. Bushing 338 defines a central opening 341 extending therethrough. The central opening 341 is configured to align with a central channel 354 of a through portion 350, such that the central axis 343 of the central opening 341 extending through bushing 338 coincides with the channel axis 366. Bushing 338 also includes a side opening 344 communicating with the central opening 341 and extending laterally through the body 339. Figure 26 The side opening 344 is configured to guide the discarded cable sheath from the central opening 341 to the outside of the bushing 338.

[0084] See Figure 26-29 The depth stop system 342 shown can be configured to adjust the stripping length of a cable stripping operation (e.g., the amount of cable sheath removed by tool 312). In other words, the depth stop system 342 limits the distance the cable stripping tool 312 can travel along the cable. See also Figure 27BThe depth stop system 342 includes a tube 374 extending along axis 366 between a front end 378 and a rear end 382, ​​and a front plug coupled to the front end 378 (in Figure 27B Not shown in the middle, but above Figure 4 The components shown are element 98), a rear plug 390 coupled to the rear end 382, ​​and an axial slot 384 extending along a portion of the length of the tube 374. Figure 28 The tube 374 is positioned to slide within the central channel 354 along the axis 366 of the central channel. The tube 374 slides to a plurality of positions between an extended position and a retracted position. In the retracted position, the front end 378 and the front plug of the tube 374 are adjacent to the bushing 338, and most of the tube 374 is received within the central channel 354. In the extended position, the front end 378 and the front plug of the tube 374 are adjacent to the rear portion of the central channel 354, and most of the tube 374 extends rearward out of the central channel 354.

[0085] See also Figure 27A-28 The front plug can be press-fitted into the front end 378 of tube 374. The front plug includes a support surface (as described above). Figure 3-6 (As discussed in the depth stop system 42), the support surface is configured to engage the end of the cable inserted into the tool 312. The front plug may be formed of a durable material (e.g., steel) to withstand wear. The rear plug 390 may be press-fitted into the rear end 382 of the tube 374.

[0086] See Figure 28 and 29 The tube 374 may have a non-circular outer contour, with corresponding features in its engaging body 334 preventing the tube 374 from rotating about axis 366. The tube 374 may be a hollow tube formed of a metallic material. The hollow construction reduces the weight of the tool 312, making it easier for the user to support the tool 312 for cable engagement. The hollow construction also allows the clamp 550 to be positioned within the tube 374. The tube 374 is selectively movable relative to the clamp 550, as described below. In other embodiments, the tube 374 may be constructed in other ways. The tube 374 further includes markings or notations along the channel axis 366 (not shown in this embodiment, but relative to...). Figure 4 (Seen at element 94), which indicates a plurality of peel lengths corresponding to the position of tube 374. The foremost visible mark 94a ( Figure 4 This can indicate the stripping length obtained at that location using tube 374. In some embodiments, tube 374 can be sized to allow a stripping length between 1 inch and 6 inches. In other embodiments, tube 374 can be longer or shorter. Tube 374 can be removably coupled to the through portion 350 and can be removed when a longer length of cable needs to be stripped.

[0087] See Figures 28-29 The depth stop system 342 further includes a clamp assembly 560, which includes a clamp 550 and an actuator assembly 570 coupled to the clamp 550. The actuator assembly 570 includes an actuator or knob 574 and a shaft 578 fixedly coupled to and extending from the actuator 574. The shaft 578 includes a threaded portion 582 that is received matingly within a threaded hole 586 (or bore) of the clamp 550. The actuator 574 is accessible to a user outside the body 334, while the shaft 578 extends from the actuator 574 through an axial slot 384 in the body 334 and the tube 374 into the threaded hole 586 of the clamp 550. The actuator 574 is movable (e.g., rotatable) to move the clamp 550 between a locked position and an unlocked position. In the locked position, clamp 550 applies a clamping force to the inner surface of tube 374. In the unlocked position, clamp 550 releases from the inner surface of tube 374 (e.g., by applying a smaller clamping force or by being spaced apart from the inner surface of tube 374), allowing tube 374 to slide along axis 366 to adjust the position of the support surface of tube 374. Specifically, as tube 374 slides along axis 366, shaft 578 slides along axial slot 384. Axial slot 384 restricts the range of movement of tube 374. That is, in the retracted position, shaft 578 abuts the rear end of slot 384, and in the extended position, shaft 578 abuts the front end of axial slot 384. In this way, at least a portion of tube 74 remains outside the central channel 54.

[0088] Despite Figure 24-45 A deep stop system 342 is used, but in other embodiments, the cable stripping tool 312 may include... Figure 3-6 The depth stop system 42 or Figure 9-13 An improvement to the depth stop system 42 shown.

[0089] See Figure 30-42 The blade assembly 370 may be adjustable and includes a blade 434 and a blade adjustment assembly 438 capable of changing the cutting depth of the blade 434 (e.g., the radial distance between the cutting edges 712, 750 of the blade 434 and the channel axis 366). In the illustrated embodiment, the first cutting edge 712 is generally transverse to the axes 343, 366, and the second cutting edge 750 is generally parallel to the axes 343, 366. The blade 434 is adjustable to receive and strip various types of cables, such as cables with cable sheaths of different diameters or different thicknesses. The blade assembly 370 is adjusted to the appropriate cutting depth to cut the cable sheath without causing any damage to the wires therein. In the illustrated embodiment, the blade 434 is pivotally coupled to the bushing 338 for rotation about a pivot axis 442 and positioned adjacent to the side opening 344 of the bushing. Spring 446 ( Figure 32Positioned between the blade 434 and the bushing 338, the first end 580 of the blade 434 is pushed to bias the blade 434 to rotate toward axes 343 and 366.

[0090] See Figure 34 The blade 434 includes a body comprising a first end 580 and a second end 584 (e.g., a working end) opposite to the first end 580. The body further includes a first side 588, a second side 592 opposite to the first side 588, a third side 596, and a fourth side 600 opposite to the third side 596. The body includes a first leg 604 extending along the length of the body and a second leg 608 extending laterally from the first leg 604. The second leg 608 is located on the third side 596 of the body.

[0091] See further Figure 34 A hole 612 extends through the body (and specifically the first leg 604) between the third side 596 and the fourth side 600. A protrusion 616 extends from the first end 580. The protrusion 616 supports the spring 446. In the illustrated embodiment, the protrusion 616 extends from the first surface 620 of the first leg 604 on the first side 588. The axis 624 of the protrusion 616 is generally perpendicular to the pivot axis 442 extending through the hole 612.

[0092] The first leg 604 and the second leg 608 together define a second surface 632 on a first side 588 of the body. In the illustrated embodiment, the second surface 632 is offset from the first surface 620. In other embodiments, the first surface 620 and the second surface 632 may be aligned. Regarding Figure 36 The second surface 632 defines a plane 636 on the first side 588. Plane 636 is positioned at a first angle 640 relative to a plane 644 defined by the fourth side 600. Plane 636 is also positioned at a second angle 648 relative to a plane 652 that is perpendicular to and intersects the plane 644 of the fourth side 600. In the illustrated embodiment, the first angle 640 is 80 degrees and the second angle 648 is 10 degrees; however, in other embodiments, the first angle 640 may be between 75 degrees and 85 degrees and the second angle 648 may be between 5 degrees and 15 degrees.

[0093] See you again Figure 34The main body defines a maximum thickness T1 and a second thickness T2 less than the maximum thickness T1, thereby creating a recessed region 660 of the main body having a recessed wall 664 and a recessed surface 668. The recessed region 660 surrounds a portion of the first leg 604 and the entire second leg 608. The recessed wall 664 is positioned on the first leg 604. The recessed surface 668 surrounds a portion of the first leg 604 and a portion of the second leg 608. The second thickness T2 is non-uniform. The recessed region 660 ensures that waste cable sheaths are discharged through the side opening 344 of the sleeve 338.

[0094] See further Figure 34 The working end 584 includes a first blade portion 700 and a second blade portion 704. The first blade portion 700 is supported by a first leg 604. (Regarding...) Figures 37-38 The first blade portion 700 has a planar surface 716 ( Figure 39 and 42 A first cutting edge 712 extending from the first cutting edge 712 toward the first end 580 and a first cutting surface 720 extending from the first cutting edge 712 toward the first end 580, the plane 716 being substantially perpendicular to the plane 644 of the fourth side 600. The first cutting surface 720 is located at a third angle 728 relative to the plane 644 of the fourth side 600 in plane 724. Figure 37 The recessed wall 664 extends from the third side 596 toward the fourth side 600 toward the first cut surface 720. In the illustrated embodiment, the third angle 728 is 20 degrees, but in other embodiments, the third angle 728 may be in the range of 15 to 25 degrees. The recessed wall 664 extends from the third side 596 toward the fourth side 600 toward the first cut surface 720. In the illustrated embodiment, there is a step 730 between the first cut surface 720 and the recessed wall 664. Figure 38 Although step 730 may be omitted in other embodiments. The recessed wall 664 is at a fourth angle 736 relative to the plane 644 of the fourth side 600. Figure 37 The fourth angle 736 extends within the plane 732 of the positioning. In the illustrated embodiment, the fourth angle 736 is 6 degrees, but in other embodiments, the fourth angle 736 can be in the range of 3 to 9 degrees. The third angle 728 pulls the tool 312 forward to obtain a continuous stripping strip, while the fourth angle 736 guides the waste cable sheath without breaking it and reduces debris.

[0095] The second blade portion 704 has a second cutting edge 750 and a second cutting surface 754. The second blade portion 704 extends along the first leg 604 and the second leg 608. The second cutting edge 750 extends from the first cutting edge 712 along the maximum width of the body. Furthermore, regarding... Figure 39The second cutting edge 750 extends in a plane 758, which is positioned at a fifth angle 762 relative to the plane 716 defined by the first cutting edge 712. As shown, the fifth angle 762 is 10 degrees, but in other embodiments, the fifth angle 762 can be in the range of 5 to 15 degrees. Figure 40 As shown, the second cutting surface 754 extends from the first cutting edge 712 along the width of the body. The second cutting surface 754 has a first end adjacent to the first cutting edge 712 and a second end opposite to the first end. The second cutting surface 754 has a first length L1 at its first end and a second length L2 at its second end. The first length L1 is less than the second length L2. The length of the second cutting surface 754 gradually increases from the first length L1 to the second length L2. Regarding... Figure 41 and 42 The second cut surface 754 extends in a plane 766 positioned at a sixth angle 770 relative to the plane 636 of the first side 588. In the illustrated embodiment, the sixth angle 770 is 40 degrees, but in other embodiments, the first angle can be in the range of 35 to 45 degrees. The sixth angle 770 guides the discarded cable sheath without damaging it and reduces debris. The construction of the second cut surface 754 lifts the discarded cable sheath out of the bushing 338 while minimizing resistance.

[0096] Back Figure 31 The blade adjusting assembly 438 includes a lever 454 and a shaft 455 (e.g., a pin) fixedly coupled to and extending from the lever 454. The lever 454 is located outside the bushing 338 and is accessible to the operator. The lever 454 is pivotable about an axis 456 extending along the length of the shaft 455. The shaft 455 includes a threaded portion 457. The shaft 455 extends through a hole 612 in the blade 434 and into a clamp 458 (e.g., a nut, bushing, flange, etc.) supported by the bushing 338. Therefore, the axis 456 of the shaft 455 coincides with the pivot axis 442 of the blade 434. In particular, the threaded portion 457 is matingly coupled to a threaded hole 459 in the clamp 458. The lever 454 is movable (rotatable) between a locked position and an unlocked position. In the locked position, the blade 434 is clamped between the clamp 458 and the body 339 of the bushing 338. In the unlocked position, the blade 434 is adjustable (e.g., movable or pivotable) relative to the bushing 338 about axes 442, 456. Rotation of the lever 454 about axis 456 causes the lever 454 to move toward the clamp 458, thereby clamping the blade 434 between the clamp 458 and the bushing 338.

[0097] See especially Figure 32The blade adjustment assembly 438 further includes a support member 800 (e.g., a lifting screw), a first bushing 804 threadedly engaged with the support member 800, a second bushing 808 threadedly engaged with the support member 800, a third bushing 812 threadedly engaged with the support member 816, and a knob or dial 820 fixedly coupled to the first bushing 804. The support member 800 is supported by the bushing 808 and is linearly movable relative to the bushing 808. The support member 800 includes a first end 824, a second end 828 opposite to the first end 824, and an axis 832 extending between the first end 824 and the second end 828. The axis 832 is generally transverse to axes 343, 366. The support member 800 includes a threaded interface extending along at least a portion of the length between the first end 824 and the second end 828. The first bushing 804 defines a threaded interface that engages with the threaded interface of the support member 800. The second bushing 808 and the third bushing 812 are supported by bushing 338 and each includes a threaded interface that engages with a threaded interface of support member 800. Because knob 820 is fixedly coupled to the first bushing 804, rotation of knob 820 with lever 454 in the unlocked position causes rotation of the first bushing 804, which in turn causes support member 800 to rotate about axis 832 to move linearly relative to blade 434 along axis 832 to change the cutting depth. When knob 820 is rotated in the first direction, support member 800 moves linearly in the first direction 836, causing the first end 824 of support member 800 to move toward blade 434. When knob 820 is rotated in the second direction, support member 800 moves linearly in the second direction 840, causing the first end 824 to move away from blade 434. The first end 580 of blade 434 defines a stop. In other words, once the blade 434 has pivoted to the extent that it engages the wall of the stop bushing 338, the blade 434 cannot pivot further away from axes 343, 366. The spring 446 biases the blade 434 into engagement with the support member 800. The spring 446 and the support member 800 provide auxiliary support to reduce sway or play in the blade 434 during operation.

[0098] During operation, lever 454 moves from the locked position to the unlocked position. Then, knob 820 is rotated in either the first or second direction to adjust the position of support member 800, thereby adjusting the position of blade 434. In other words, rotation of blade 434 about axes 442, 456 changes the radial distance between axes 343, 366 and the first cutting edge 712. Once blade 434 is in the desired position, lever 454 moves from the unlocked position back to the locked position.

[0099] In some cases, it may be necessary to remove the blade 434 from the bushing 338. The user can remove the rod 454 from the shaft 455 from the blade 434, and then unscrew the shaft 455 from the clamp 458 to remove the rod 454. The blade 434 can then be lifted from the bushing through the slot 850 in the bushing 338. The blade 134 can then be maintained, repaired, or replaced with a new blade.

[0100] Despite Figure 24-45 The blade assembly 370 is used, but in other embodiments, the cable stripping tool 312 may include... Figure 15-18 The blade assembly 370, or can be used Figure 19-23 Blade assembly 200.

[0101] See Figures 27A-27C Motor 358 drives gear train 362, which ultimately causes bushing 338 to rotate relative to the cable received therein. Motor 358 is supported in motor housing 346 and includes motor shaft 860. Figure 27C The motor shaft 860 is along the motor axis 864, which is parallel to the channel axis 366 and the central axis 343 of the bushing 338. Figure 27A (Extended meaning.) Additionally, regarding... Figure 27A The motor axis 864 is generally parallel to the battery insertion axis 865 of the battery receiving interface 314a. The motor axis 864 is positioned at a non-parallel angle 866 relative to the handle axis 867 extending through the first end 322 and the second end 326 of the handle 318. In the illustrated embodiment, the motor axis 684 is positioned at an angle relative to the handle axis 867. The gear train 362 includes a planetary gear mechanism 868, a drive gear 872 that rotates via the planetary gear mechanism 868, an idler gear 876 that rotates via engaging the drive gear 872, and a driven gear 880 (e.g., a spur gear) that rotates via engaging the idler gear 876. The spur gear 880 is fixedly coupled to the bushing 338, such that rotation of the spur gear 880 causes rotation of the bushing 338. As shown, the central opening 341 of the bushing 338 and the central channel 354 of the through portion 350 extend through the spur gear 880. Therefore, the spur gear 880 and thus the bushing 338 can rotate about its axis 366 outside the central channel 354.

[0102] exist Figure 27CThe planetary gear mechanism 868 is shown in more detail below. The planetary gear mechanism 868 includes a ring gear 900 supporting a first planetary group 904, a second planetary group 908, and a third planetary group 912. The first planetary group 904 includes a first input gear 920, a first plurality of planetary gears 924, and a first planet carrier 928. The first input gear 920 is coupled to and rotated by a motor shaft 860. The first planetary gears 924 are rotatably coupled to the first planet carrier 928 and mesh with the first input gear 920 and the ring gear 900. The first input gear 920 engages the first planetary gear 924 to rotate the first planetary gear 928 via engagement with the ring gear 900. The second planetary group 908 includes a second input gear 930, a second plurality of planetary gears 934, and a second planet carrier 938 extending from the first planet carrier 928. The second planetary gear 934 is rotatably coupled to the second planetary carrier 938 and engages with the second input gear 930 and the ring gear 900. The second input gear 930 engages the second planetary gear 934 to rotate the second planetary gear 934 via engagement with the ring gear 900, thereby rotating the second planetary carrier 938. The third planetary gear 912 includes a third input gear 940, a third plurality of planetary gears 944, and a third planetary carrier 948 extending from the second planetary carrier 938. The third planetary gear 944 is rotatably coupled to the third planetary carrier 948 and engages with the third input gear 940 and the ring gear 900. A drive gear 872 is fixedly coupled to the third planetary carrier 948. The third input gear 940 engages the third planetary gear 944 to rotate the third planetary gear 944 via engagement with the ring gear 900, thereby rotating the third planetary carrier 948. Therefore, rotation of the third planetary carrier 948 causes rotation of the drive gear 872.

[0103] The configuration of motor 358 and gear train 362 distributes the center of gravity of tool 312 closer to the user's hand. This configuration also reduces the overall tool size. Furthermore, it allows for a large gear ratio and is more efficient than other motor and gear train configurations.

[0104] To enable successful stripping of various cable types, bushing 338 is adjustable. Specifically, bushing 338 further includes a clamping assembly 340 that is adjustable to hold and guide cables of different diameters within the central opening 341 of bushing 338. See also Figures 34-45The clamping assembly 340 includes a jaw assembly 1000 and a pair of guide plates 1004 on either side of the jaw assembly 1000. The clamping assembly 340 defines a portion of a central opening 341 of a bushing 338. Each of the pair of guide plates 1004 includes a set of slots 1008 extending through the guide plate 1004. In the illustrated embodiment, the slots 1008 extend completely through the guide plate 1004. The jaw assembly 1000 includes a jaw carrier 1012 having a plurality of brackets 1016. Figure 45 The clamping assembly 340 comprises a plurality of jaws 1020, each jaw 1020 being movably supported in one of a plurality of brackets 1016. Each jaw 1020 includes at least one clamping surface 1024 and a pair of pins 1028 extending from opposite ends of the jaw 1020 (only one of each pair of pins 1028 is shown in this invention). In the illustrated embodiment, the clamping assembly 340 is secured to the body 339 by a pair of shafts 1032. The shafts 1032 extend through openings in the body 339 and the guide plate 1004. In some embodiments, the shafts 1032 are fasteners, such as bolts or screws having flanged heads and threaded portions. In other embodiments, the shafts may be secured to the body 339 in other ways. In other embodiments, the clamping assembly 340 may be coupled to the body 339 in other ways, such as using stop pins or retaining rings.

[0105] See Figure 43 and 44 When the clamping assembly 340 is assembled to the body 339, the guide plate 1004 is coupled to the body 339 to rotate with it. In the illustrated embodiment, the shaft 1032 secures the guide plate 1004 to rotate with the body 339. The jaw assembly 1000 is positioned between a pair of guide plates 1004. The jaw carrier 1012 rotates relative to the body 339 and the guide plates 1004. In the illustrated embodiment, the jaw assembly 1000 includes eight brackets 1016 and eight jaws 1020. The brackets 1016 are circumferentially spaced and evenly spaced about a central axis 343.

[0106] Each jaw 1020 is coupled to an associated slot 1008 in each guide plate 1004. Specifically, each jaw 1020 is disposed between guide plates 1004, and a pin 1028 is positioned in the slot 1008. A bracket 1016 allows the jaws 1020 to slide generally toward the central axis 343. In other words, the jaws 1020 can move radially relative to the central axis 343 within the bracket 1016 and are prevented from circumferentially moving relative to the jaw carrier 1012 by the bracket 1016. The bracket 1016 supports the jaws 1020 to maintain their orientation, with the clamping surface 1024 generally facing the central axis 343. In some embodiments, the jaws 1020 can be slightly rotated within the bracket 1016 to adjust the clamping surface 1024 to engage the outer contour of the cable 100.

[0107] See Figure 43 and 44 The slot 1008 is an arcuate slot and defines a path including circumferential and radial components. The jaws 1020 are configured to travel along the path relative to the guide plates 1004. In the illustrated embodiment, the guide plates 1004 are identical, and when assembled, the slots 1008 of each guide plate 1004 are aligned. Each slot 1008 extends between a first path end 1040 and a second path end 1044, and the jaws 1020 travel along the path between the first path end 1040 and the second path end 1044. The first path end 1040 is located at a radially measured first distance from the central axis 343. The second path end 1044 is located at a radially measured second distance from the central axis 343. The first and second distances are not equal to each other, or in other words, the path has a radial variation; the jaws 1020 move radially as the pin 1028 travels along the slot 1008. In the illustrated embodiment, the second distance is less than the first distance, so as the pin 1028 traverses the slot 1008, the jaws 1020 move radially inward. Therefore, the clamping surface 1024 can move radially and enter the central opening 341 to engage the cable 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the curve of the slot 1008 causes the radial distance between the central axis 343 and the jaws 1020 to decrease consistently as the pin 1028 travels along the path. In other embodiments, the slot 1008 may have other shapes. In some embodiments, the radial distance may remain constant for a portion of the path. In some embodiments, the radial distance may increase and decrease as the pin 1028 traverses the slot 1008 from the first path end 1040 to the second path end 1044. Other shapes may also be used to provide different clamping patterns.

[0108] To operate the clamping assembly 340, the jaw carrier 1012 rotates about a central axis 343 relative to the body 339 and the guide plate 1004. This rotation of the jaw carrier 1012 causes the jaws 1020 to move radially relative to the central axis 343. Specifically, the jaw carrier 1012 causes the bracket 1016 to rotate about the central axis 343, and the bracket 1016 applies a tangential force to the jaws 1020. Since the jaws 1020 are mounted in slots 1008 of the adjacent guide plate 1004, the jaws 1020 are radially supported by the slots 1008 as the jaw carrier 1012 rotates and moves circumferentially. The bracket 1016 maintains the orientation of the jaws 1020 to keep the clamping surface 1024 pointing towards the central axis 343. In the illustrated embodiment, counterclockwise rotation of the jaw carrier 1012 about the central axis 343 (when viewed from the front end 332 along the axis) causes the jaws 1020 to move radially inward and extend into the central opening 341. The clamping assembly 340 is movable between an unclamped or retracted configuration and one or more clamped or extended configurations, wherein at least a portion of the jaws 1020 extends into the central opening 341 to engage the cable 100. The clamping assembly 340 can be continuously moved between an unclamped configuration and a fully clamped configuration through a series of intermediate clamped configurations.

[0109] The clamping assembly 340 allows an operator to clamp conduits of different sizes by rotating the jaw carrier 1012 until the clamping surface 1024 of the jaws 1020 engages the cable sheath 101 of the cable 100. A fully clamped configuration can correspond to cables 100 with small diameters. Although not discussed in this invention, the clamping assembly 340 includes a latching assembly configured to hold the jaw assembly 1000 in position once the desired configuration is achieved. The latching assembly can use any of a number of known methods and can engage the jaw carrier 1012 or other parts of the jaw assembly 1000.

[0110] In another implementation, such as Figure 46 In the illustrated embodiment, jaw 1020 can be replaced by V-jaws 1050 and U-jaws 1054 opposite to V-jaws 1050 relative to the channel axis 366. That is, the slot 1008 of the guide plate 1004 can be modified to advance and retract the legs 1058a, 1058b, 1062a, 1062b of the V-jaws 1050 and U-jaws 1054, such that the legs 1058a, 1058b, 1062a, 1062b engage the cable sheath. In other embodiments, jaw 1020 can be replaced by two V-jaws 1050 on the opposite side of the channel axis 366. V-jaws 1050 and / or U-jaws 1054 can reduce friction and increase compatibility with high-friction cable materials (EPR).

[0111] Figures 47-50 The cable stripping assembly 310' of the embodiment is similar to Figure 24-45 Cable stripping assembly 310. Therefore, the same reference numerals will be used for the same structure, and only the differences in this utility model will be discussed. Figure 24-45 In one embodiment, the adjustable bushing 338 is coupled to the front end 332 of the head 330 (e.g., through portion 350) of the tool 312. See also Figures 47-50 The adjustable bushing 338 is coupled to the head 330 (e.g., through portion 350) at or adjacent to the rear end 333.

[0112] For this purpose, the central channel 354 of the through portion 350 is accessible at the front end 332 of the head 330, while the adjustable bushing 338 is coupled to the through portion 350 at the rear end 333 and extends rearward. As shown, the clamping assembly 340 is positioned adjacent to the rear end 333 of the through portion 350 and is positioned between the through portion 350 and the rear end of the bushing 338. The central opening 341 of the bushing 338 extends along the length of the bushing 338. Figure 24-45 The side opening 344 and depth stop system 342 are omitted. The blade assembly 370 is positioned between the clamping assembly 340 and the rear end of the bushing 338. The cable end is fed into the central channel 354 at the front end 332 of the through portion 350 and moves along the channel axis 366 through the central opening 341 of the bushing 338. Because the central opening 341 remains open at the rear end of the bushing 338, as the tool 312 advances along the cable, the discarded cable sheath can be guided away from the tool 312 through the central opening 341 at the rear end of the bushing 338. Figures 47-50 This implementation is preferably used for stripping cables larger than 6 inches. Specifically, this implementation is preferably used for stripping cables from 12 inches to 36 inches (e.g., treewires).

[0113] Similar to Figure 24-45 In the implementation method, motor 358 ( Figure 27A Positioned within the motor housing 346 and electrically coupled to the battery 14 to transmit rotation to the gear train 362. Figure 27A Adjustable bushing 338 is coupled to gear train 362, so that the rotation of motor 358 is transmitted to bushing 338 through gear train 362. The configuration of motor 358 and gear train 362 is consistent with the above description. Figure 24-45 The configuration discussed is the same. Additionally, the clamping assembly 340 is combined with the above. Figure 24-45 The clamping components discussed are the same, although clamping component 340 can be used alternatively. Figures 47-50 The cable stripping assembly 310 has Figure 19-23The blade assembly 200 may be used, but in other embodiments, any other blade assembly discussed in this invention may be used instead.

[0114] Various other features are described in the claims.

Claims

1. A cable stripping assembly for removing the cable sheath from a cable, characterized in that, The cable stripping assembly includes: Cable stripping tool, the cable stripping tool comprising: A housing including a head and a handle, the head including a central opening defining a central axis and configured to receive a cable, the handle extending from the head, and A motor, the motor being disposed in the head, the motor having a motor shaft extending along a motor axis parallel to the central axis; An adjustable bushing, coupled to the head and having a central opening communicating with the head of the housing and extending along the central axis, wherein actuation of the motor drives the adjustable bushing to rotate; and A blade, which is mounted to the adjustable bushing and configured to extend partially into the central opening of the adjustable bushing to engage the cable.

2. The cable stripping assembly as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The cable stripping tool also includes a gear train located within the housing, wherein the motor actuates the gear train to rotate the adjustable bushing.

3. The cable stripping assembly as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The gear system includes a planetary gear mechanism driven by the motor, a drive gear driven by the planetary gear mechanism, an idler gear driven by the drive gear, and a driven gear driven by the idler gear, wherein the driven gear is fixedly coupled to an adjustable bushing.

4. The cable stripping assembly as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The handle includes a battery receiving interface configured to receive a battery for powering the motor, the battery receiving interface having a battery insertion axis parallel to the motor axis.

5. The cable stripping assembly as described in claim 1, characterized in that, It further includes a depth stop system comprising a tube movably coupled to the head along the central axis.

6. The cable stripping assembly as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The blade has a first cutting edge and a second cutting edge.

7. A cable stripping assembly for removing the cable sheath from a cable, characterized in that, The cable stripping assembly includes: Cable stripping tool, the cable stripping tool comprising: A housing including a head and a handle, the head including a central opening defining a central axis and configured to receive a cable, the handle extending from the head, and A motor, which is disposed in the housing; An adjustable bushing is coupled to the head and has a central opening communicating with the head of the housing and extending along the central axis, wherein actuation of the motor drives the adjustable bushing to rotate. A blade, the blade being mounted to the adjustable bushing and configured to partially extend into the central opening of the adjustable bushing to engage the cable; and A depth stop system, supported by the head, comprising: A tube, which can be received within the central opening and is movable within the central opening between a first position and a second position, and A clamping assembly configured to lock the tube relative to the head in the first position and the second position.

8. The cable stripping assembly as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The tube can slide between a plurality of positions between the first position and the second position.

9. The cable stripping assembly as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The clamping assembly includes a clamp positioned within the tube and an actuator assembly accessible from outside the housing and movably coupled to the clamp.

10. The cable stripping assembly as described in claim 9, characterized in that, The actuator assembly moves the clamp between a locked position and an unlocked position, wherein in the locked position the clamp applies a clamping force to the inner surface of the tube, and wherein in the unlocked position the clamp is released from the inner surface of the tube.

11. The cable stripping assembly as described in claim 9, characterized in that, The tube includes a slot through which the actuator assembly extends, and wherein the actuator assembly is adjacent to the rear end of the slot in the first position and adjacent to the front end of the slot in the second position.

12. The cable stripping assembly as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The blade has a first cutting edge and a second cutting edge.

13. A cable stripping assembly for removing the cable sheath from a cable, characterized in that, The cable stripping assembly includes: Cable stripping tools, including: A housing including a head and a handle, the head including a central opening defining a central axis and configured to receive a cable, the handle extending from the head, and A motor, which is disposed in the housing; An adjustable bushing, coupled to the head and having a central opening communicating with the head of the housing and extending along the central axis, wherein actuation of the motor drives the adjustable bushing to rotate; and A blade, which is mounted to the adjustable bushing and configured to partially extend into a central opening of the adjustable bushing to engage the cable, the blade having a body comprising: First end, The second end, opposite to the first end, extends into the central opening and is movable relative to the central opening. The first leg extends between the first end and the second end. The second leg extends laterally from the first leg. A first cutting edge, positioned at the second end and defined by the first leg, extends in a first plane. A second cutting edge is positioned at the second end and extends from the first cutting edge along the first leg and the second leg, the second cutting edge extending in a second plane positioned at a non-perpendicular angle relative to the first plane.

14. The cable stripping assembly as described in claim 13, characterized in that, The non-perpendicular angle is between 5 degrees and 15 degrees.

15. The cable stripping assembly as described in claim 13, characterized in that, The non-perpendicular angle is a first non-perpendicular angle, wherein the body further includes a first side, a second side opposite to the first side, a third side, and a fourth side opposite to the third side, and wherein the first leg and the second leg together define a surface on the first side, the surface on the first side being positioned relative to a third plane defined by the fourth side at a second non-perpendicular angle.

16. The cable stripping assembly as described in claim 15, characterized in that, The surface on the first side is positioned relative to the fourth plane at a third non-perpendicular angle, wherein the fourth plane is perpendicular to and intersects the third plane defined by the fourth side, and wherein the third non-perpendicular angle is between 5 degrees and 15 degrees.

17. The cable stripping assembly as described in claim 16, characterized in that, The blade body further includes a first cutting surface extending from the first cutting edge toward the first end and a second cutting surface extending from the second cutting edge toward the first end, the first cutting surface extending at a first angle relative to the third plane and the second cutting surface extending at a second angle relative to the surface on the first side.

18. The cable stripping assembly as described in claim 17, characterized in that, The first angle is between 15 degrees and 25 degrees, and the second angle is between 35 degrees and 45 degrees.

19. The cable stripping assembly as described in claim 17, characterized in that, The blade body also includes a recessed region having a recessed wall and a recessed surface recessed relative to the second side, the recessed wall extending from the first cutting surface toward the first end at a third angle, and the recessed surface extending from the second cutting surface toward the first end.

20. The cable stripping assembly as described in claim 19, characterized in that, The third angle is between 3 and 9 degrees.

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