Protection Handle Additional handle with hand detection

Abstract

The invention is based on an additional handle device for a hand-held power tool (12a), with an interface unit (14a; 14b) for a detachable connection to the hand-held power tool (12a), with at least one handle unit (16a; 16b) which has a gripping area (18a; 18b), and with at least one sensor (20a; 20b) arranged in the gripping area (18a; 18b), which sensor is intended to detect at least one gripping parameter, in particular a gripping of a hand of an operator. It is proposed that the additional handle device has at least one communication unit (22a; 22b) for wireless communication with a computing unit (24a) of the handheld power tool (12a), wherein the communication unit (22a; 22b) is provided in at least one operating state to wirelessly transmit the at least one gripping parameter and at least one coupling parameter of a, in particular mechanical, coupling with the handheld power tool (12a) to the computing unit (24a).

Description

State of the art

[0001] An additional handle device for a hand-held power tool has already been proposed, comprising an interface unit for a detachable connection to the hand-held power tool, comprising at least one handle unit which has a gripping region, and comprising at least one sensor arranged in the gripping region, which sensor is intended to detect at least one gripping parameter, in particular a gripping of a hand of an operator. Disclosure of the invention

[0002] The invention is based on an additional handle device for a hand-held power tool, with an interface unit for a detachable connection to the hand-held power tool, with at least one handle unit which has a gripping region, and with at least one sensor arranged in the gripping region, which sensor is intended to detect at least one gripping parameter, in particular a gripping of a hand of an operator.

[0003] It is proposed that the auxiliary handle device have at least one communication unit for wireless communication with a computing unit of the handheld power tool, wherein the communication unit is provided, in at least one operating state, to wirelessly transmit the at least one gripping parameter and at least one coupling parameter of a, in particular mechanical, coupling with the handheld power tool to the computing unit. Preferably, the communication unit is provided, in at least one operating state, to wirelessly transmit the at least one parameter of a gripping state of the gripping area by an operator and at least one parameter of a mechanical connection between the auxiliary handle device and the handheld power tool to the computing unit.

[0004] In this context, an “additional handle device” is to be understood in particular as a device which is provided for a detachable connection to a hand-held power tool and which forms at least one additional handle for the hand-held power tool. The additional handle device can in particular be designed both optionally and obligatorily for operation of the hand-held power tool. Preferably, the additional handle device is designed obligatorily for at least one operating state of the hand-held power tool. In particular, it would also be conceivable for additional operating modes and / or higher performance to be available on the hand-held power tool when the additional handle device is attached. The additional handle device is preferably designed so that it can be separated from the hand-held power tool for transport.The auxiliary handle device is formed, in particular, by an auxiliary handle, in particular a bar handle and / or a bow handle. A "handheld power tool" is understood to mean, in particular, a machine for machining workpieces, but advantageously a drill, a hammer drill and / or impact hammer, a saw, a planer, a screwdriver, a milling machine, a grinder, an angle grinder, a gardening tool, and / or a multi-function tool. The handheld power tool is preferably formed by an angle grinder. However, another design of the handheld power tool that would be deemed appropriate by a person skilled in the art would also be conceivable.

[0005] In this context, an "interface unit" is to be understood in particular as a unit which is provided for a detachable connection of the auxiliary handle device to the handheld power tool. Preferably, the auxiliary handle device is detachably mechanically connectable to the handheld power tool via the interface unit. The interface unit has in particular a mechanical interface element which is provided for interacting with a corresponding interface element of the handheld power tool. Preferably, the mechanical interface element of the interface unit is provided for a connection which interacts positively and / or non-positively with the interface element of the handheld power tool.Preferably, the interface element of the interface unit is formed, for example, by a bolt, in particular a threaded bolt, which can be inserted and / or screwed into a receptacle of the interface element. "Releasable" in this context is understood to mean, in particular, "non-destructively separable." In a particularly preferred embodiment, the at least one receptacle unit is at least partially provided for a tool-free, releasable coupling of the handle device and the fastening unit.

[0006] The grip unit forms, in particular, an actual grip body of the additional handle device, which has a grip region intended for direct gripping by an operator. The grip region is preferably intended to be grasped by an operator with one hand. The grip region preferably comprises, in particular, an at least approximately cylindrical gripping surface. A "gripping parameter" in this context is to be understood, in particular, as a parameter that provides information about a gripping state of the grip unit by an operator. The grip parameter can preferably be used to detect whether the handle unit is currently being grasped or not.In this context, a "sensor" is understood to mean, in particular, a unit designed to record at least one parameter and / or one physical property. Recording can occur actively, such as by generating and transmitting an electrical measurement signal, and / or passively, such as by detecting changes in the properties of a sensor component. Various sensors are conceivable that would be appropriate to those skilled in the art.

[0007] In this context, a "communication unit" is to be understood in particular as a unit that is provided for providing communication, in particular wireless communication, with the handheld power tool, in particular a communication unit of the handheld power tool. The communication unit preferably has at least one interface for communication with the communication unit. A communication unit is to be understood in particular as a unit that is provided for exchanging data. In particular, the communication unit has at least one information input and at least one information output.The communication unit preferably has at least two information inputs and at least two information outputs, wherein at least one information input and at least one information output are each provided for connection to a physical system, in particular the handheld power tool. This is particularly preferably understood to mean an interface between at least two physical systems, such as in particular between the handheld power tool and the additional handle device. Various communication units that appear appropriate to a person skilled in the art are conceivable, but in particular this is understood to mean a wireless interface, such as Bluetooth, WLAN, Zigbee, NFC, RFID, GSM, LTE or UMTS. A “computing unit” is understood to mean, in particular, a unit with an information input, information processing and information output.Advantageously, the computing unit comprises at least one processor, a memory, input and output means, further electrical components, an operating program, control routines, and / or calculation routines. The components of the computing unit are preferably arranged on a common circuit board and / or advantageously arranged in a common housing.

[0008] In this context, a "coupling parameter" is to be understood in particular as a parameter that provides information about a mechanical coupling state of the auxiliary handle device on the handheld power tool. Preferably, the coupling parameter can be used to detect whether the auxiliary handle device is coupled to the handheld power tool. "Provided" is to be understood in particular as specifically programmed, designed, and / or equipped. The fact that an object is provided for a specific function is to be understood in particular as meaning that the object fulfills and / or executes this specific function in at least one application and / or operating state.

[0009] The inventive design of the auxiliary handle device enables, in particular, advantageously safe operation of the handheld power tool. In particular, a gripping state can be detected directly on the auxiliary handle device. This allows the auxiliary handle device to be advantageously used with various handheld power tools.

[0010] It is further proposed that the additional handle device has a motion sensor, in particular an acceleration sensor, wherein the communication unit is provided in at least one operating state to transmit at least one motion parameter of the motion sensor as a coupling parameter to the computing unit of the handheld power tool. Preferably, the motion parameter is used in particular to compare a movement of the additional handle device with a movement of the handheld power tool. The motion sensor is provided in particular to convert a change in position into an electrical variable, wherein the electrical variable can be evaluated by means of a circuit and / or a computing unit. The motion sensor can be formed, for example, by an inclination sensor and / or an acceleration sensor. Preferably, the motion sensor is formed by an acceleration sensor.However, other designs that would be deemed appropriate by a person skilled in the art are also conceivable. In particular, it would be conceivable to provide multiple acceleration sensors that detect different movements. This would, in particular, provide an advantageously contactless and precise coupling parameter.

[0011] Furthermore, it is proposed that the sensor be formed by a capacitive sensor. The sensor has, in particular, a switching contact which is intended to generate a switching signal in the form of an electrical parameter as a function of contact with the sensor or a gripping surface of the gripping area. The switching signal can preferably be transmitted to the computing unit, where it can be evaluated and further processed. The sensor is designed as a capacitive sensor. The sensor has, in particular, at least one capacitive sensor element. However, a design as a resistive or inductive sensor element would also be conceivable. The sensor can comprise a plurality of sensor elements. The capacitive sensor is based, in particular, on the change in the electrical capacitance of an individual capacitor or a capacitor arrangement. In this context, the capacitive sensor can be designed, for example, as a pressure sensor or as a proximity sensor.In a capacitive pressure sensor, the change in capacitance caused by the deflection of a membrane and the resulting change in the plate spacing is evaluated as a sensor effect. The membrane is designed as a capacitor plate, like in a condenser microphone. The capacitive proximity sensor is based on the change in the electric field in the environment in front of its sensor electrode. However, another form of capacitive sensor that would appear sensible to a specialist would also be conceivable. The detection of a second hand by capacitive sensors allows the hand to be freely positioned in the grip area of ​​the additional handle device. Because there is no need to continuously press a switch, operation is fatigue-free and no different from the safe use of a modern angle grinder. Operation with gloves is also possible. The approach of the hand can also be detected in order to switch the device on or off.to increase the sampling rate.

[0012] It is further proposed that a gripping surface of the grip region be made at least partially of an electrically conductive TPE. To improve capacitive detection, an electrically conductive TPE can be used in the grip region. Contacting can also be made at the aforementioned TPE openings. This simplifies measuring and assembly. The thermoplastic elastomer (TPE for short) of the gripping surface particularly comprises electrically conductive additives, such as carbon black or the like. Preferably, the gripping surface of the grip region consists at least largely of the electrically conductive TPE. Preferably, the gripping surface of the grip region consists entirely of the electrically conductive TPE. The expression “at least largely” should be understood to mean in particular at least 55%, advantageously at least 65%, preferably at least 75%, particularly preferably at least 85%, and particularly advantageously at least 95%.This enables reliable detection, particularly across the entire gripping surface. At the same time, it allows the operator to freely position one hand.

[0013] It is further proposed that the communication unit comprise a Bluetooth module. The communication unit in particular comprises an interface for direct communication with the communication unit of the handheld power tool. For example, the interface can be designed as a WLAN interface, a Wi-Fi interface, a Bluetooth interface, a mobile radio interface, an infrared interface and / or as another wireless interface that appears appropriate to a person skilled in the art. However, the interface is advantageously formed by a Bluetooth interface, with the communication unit comprising a Bluetooth module for this purpose. The Bluetooth module is provided for providing and establishing a Bluetooth connection with the handheld power tool. Preferably, the communication unit of the handheld power tool also comprises a Bluetooth module.This makes it possible to provide, in particular, an advantageously reliable communication unit. In particular, communication can be carried out via a protocol widely used in handheld power tools. This enables, in particular, advantageously high compatibility.

[0014] It is further proposed that the additional handle device have at least one display unit, which is provided at least for indicating a pairing status and / or a gripping status. The display unit is arranged in particular in an end region of the additional handle device facing away from the interface unit. However, another arrangement of the display unit that would appear expedient to a person skilled in the art would also be conceivable. The display unit serves in particular to communicate the detected state. A “display unit” should be understood in particular as a unit that has at least two display states and, in at least one display state, provides a visual and / or acoustic display and preferably emits a signal that is visible and / or audible to a person. The display unit preferably comprises a visual and / or acoustic display means.An “optical display means” is to be understood in particular as a light source, preferably an LED, and / or a preferably backlit display unit, in particular a matrix display unit, preferably an LCD display, an OLED display and / or electronic paper (e-paper, E-Ink). An “acoustic display means” is to be understood in particular as a unit designed to convert electrical energy into sound energy. In particular, it comprises electronics designed to generate a frequency between 0 Hz and 20 kHz, in particular between 50 Hz and 8 kHz, preferably between 200 Hz and 5 kHz, and to transmit this frequency to a sound generator of the acoustic display means, in particular to a string and / or a membrane, preferably to a loudspeaker. The display unit preferably comprises an LED, in particular an LED ring, arranged on the handle unit.The hand detection is signaled primarily by the LED, particularly the LED ring, of the display unit at the end of the auxiliary handle. For example, the LED can glow red when no hand is detected and green when a hand is detected. Other colors can also signal different states; for example, flashing red can indicate a low battery level, while flashing blue signals a connection being established. This advantageously makes it easy to display the status of the auxiliary handle device and communicate it to an operator.

[0015] Furthermore, the invention is based on a handheld power tool system with the auxiliary handle device and with a handheld power tool which has a computing unit. It is proposed that the handheld power tool has a computing unit and a motion sensor, in particular an acceleration sensor, connected to the computing unit, wherein the computing unit of the handheld power tool is provided to retrieve a gripping parameter of the auxiliary handle device and a motion characteristic of the motion sensor of the auxiliary handle device via the communication unit of the auxiliary handle device and to set an operating mode depending on the gripping parameter, in particular a gripping state, and the motion characteristic of the auxiliary handle device. Preferably, the computing unit is provided to set a standby operating state depending on a gripping state and the motion characteristic of the auxiliary handle device.Preferably, the computing unit is provided to activate a standby operating state when the gripping area of ​​the auxiliary handle device is gripped and a movement variable of the auxiliary handle device substantially corresponds to a movement characteristic of the handheld power tool, in particular when the auxiliary handle device moves synchronously with the handheld power tool. Preferably, the computing unit of the handheld power tool is provided to initially compare the movement characteristic of the auxiliary handle device and the movement characteristic of the handheld power tool and to continuously monitor the gripping state of the auxiliary handle device during the standby operating state and / or a working operating state.Preferably, a comparison of the movement characteristic of the auxiliary handle device and the movement characteristic of the handheld power tool serves to wirelessly pair the auxiliary handle device with the handheld power tool, whereby it is already determined during pairing whether the auxiliary handle device is firmly attached to the handheld power tool. It would also be conceivable for the movement characteristic of the auxiliary handle device and the movement characteristic of the handheld power tool to be continuously compared. By pairing with the aid of the evaluation of both movements, no button is required for pairing. This type of pairing would also be useful for other power tool accessories, as it can function intuitively and without any user intervention. It would also be conceivable for a button to be pressed on the handheld power tool and the auxiliary handle device at the same time.The communication between the auxiliary handle device and the hand tool should be private and not changeable from the outside.

[0016] It is further proposed that the computing unit be configured to compare the movements of the auxiliary handle device and the handheld power tool on the basis of an absolute value of the angular velocity vector in order to set the operating mode. It is further proposed that the computing unit be configured to compare at least one movement characteristic of the movement sensor of the auxiliary handle device with a movement characteristic of the movement sensor of the handheld power tool for wireless pairing with the communication unit. By comparing signal strength and movement information in combination with an exchange of a private connection ID, a direct connection can be established between the computing unit and the communication unit of the auxiliary handle device. It would also be conceivable for a button on the handheld power tool and / or the auxiliary handle device to be pressed simultaneously.The communication between the auxiliary handle device and the handheld power tool should be private and cannot be changed from outside. In particular, encrypted communication should take place. The auxiliary handle device is preferably connected to the processing unit of the handheld power tool via Bluetooth. The processing unit has, in particular, a further acceleration sensor signal and compares, in particular, whether the auxiliary handle device and the handheld power tool are mechanically connected. These acceleration signals are preferably provided by two acceleration sensors, in particular the acceleration sensor of the auxiliary handle device and the acceleration sensor of the handheld power tool. The comparison is particularly preferably carried out based on the magnitude of the vector of the angular velocities in all three spatial axes.The advantage of evaluating angular velocities is that they are independent of gravitational acceleration and are less affected by vibrations. Very small angular velocities are preferably not considered. For constant motion, a counter is incremented, which changes state when a certain value is reached.

[0017] It is further proposed that the auxiliary handle have at least one interface unit for a detachable, at least positively locking attachment to the handheld power tool, wherein the auxiliary handle device has at least one vibration damping unit arranged at least partially between the handle area and the interface unit. A "vibration damping unit" is to be understood as a unit intended to significantly reduce the transmission of oscillation and / or vibration, in particular from and in particular between different units, elements, components and / or parts, in particular between the handheld power tool and the handle unit of the auxiliary handle device."Significantly reduce" should be understood to mean that the oscillation and / or vibration acting on a component to be damped, in particular the handle unit, is reduced by at least 50%, preferably by more than 70%, and particularly preferably by more than 90%. Advantageously, a degree of damping of the vibration damping unit for damping oscillations and / or vibrations can be adjustable, in particular by an operator, preferably by setting a damping parameter, such as an elasticity, a spring constant, a stiffness, a tension, and / or a pressure, in particular of at least one damping element.A “damping parameter” should be understood in particular as a parameter which is correlated in particular with the damping, in particular of at least one unit, an element, a component and / or a part and advantageously with the damping between two units, elements, components and / or parts, preferably relative to one another. Advantageously, the vibration damping unit can infer the presence and / or quality of the damping and / or determine the presence and / or quality of the damping at least based on the damping parameter. Advantageously, the damping parameter corresponds to at least one, advantageously exactly one, measured value depicting and / or characterizing the damping. This makes it possible in particular to provide an advantageously ergonomic additional handle device.The construction of an electronics assembly for the auxiliary handle device allows the use of existing vibration damping units, as there is no need for a cable connection between the handle unit and the interface unit. This eliminates the need for complex and expensive injection molding tools to implement the handle's anti-vibration function. Furthermore, no changes to the angle grinder kit are necessary. Only the hollow space in the handle unit serves as the interface to the electronics assembly. The electronics assembly is mounted by sliding it into the handle unit. It can be secured by clamping it into TPE openings in the handle unit.

[0018] Furthermore, the invention is based on a method for operating the handheld power tool system. It is proposed that, initially for setting an operating mode, at least one movement characteristic of a movement sensor of the auxiliary handle device is compared with a movement characteristic of a movement sensor of the handheld power tool by means of the computing unit. By comparing signal strength and movement information in combination with an exchange of a private connection ID, a direct connection can be established between the computing unit and the communication unit of the auxiliary handle device. Preferably, the auxiliary handle device is connected to the computing unit of the handheld power tool via Bluetooth. The computing unit has, in particular, a further acceleration sensor signal and compares, in particular, whether the auxiliary handle device and the handheld power tool are mechanically connected.These acceleration signals are preferably provided by two acceleration sensors, in particular the acceleration sensor of the auxiliary handle device and the acceleration sensor of the handheld power tool. The comparison is particularly preferably based on the magnitude of the angular velocity vector in all three spatial axes.

[0019] Furthermore, it is proposed that the computing unit of the hand-held power tool connects to at least one communication unit of at least one adjacent auxiliary handle device in at least one connection step and assigns a connection ID.It is further proposed that the computing unit of the hand-held power tool, in particular after the connecting step, retrieves a movement characteristic of a movement sensor of the connected auxiliary handle device in at least one verification step and compares it with a movement characteristic of the movement sensor of the hand-held power tool, wherein the computing unit of the hand-held power tool disconnects a connection between the communication unit of the hand-held power tool and the communication unit of the auxiliary handle device in a disconnecting step if a movement of the auxiliary handle device determined on the basis of the movement characteristic of the movement sensor of the auxiliary handle device does not match a movement of the hand-held power tool determined on the basis of the movement characteristic of the movement sensor of the hand-held power tool.Preferably, the computing unit first connects to the communication unit of the auxiliary handle device and then checks whether the auxiliary handle device is moving synchronously with the handheld power tool. This enables reliable transmission of the movement characteristic. Preferably, it would be conceivable for the connection to be stored only as a temporary connection on the computing unit before verification of the synchronous movement. The connection is deleted directly by the computing unit, in particular, if the movement characteristics of the auxiliary handle device and the handheld power tool do not match.

[0020] It is further proposed that the computing unit monitors, in one operating step, gripping of a handle area of ​​the auxiliary handle device by an operator as well as gripping of a handle area of ​​the handheld power tool by an operator, wherein, if one of the handle areas is not gripped, a drive unit of the handheld power tool is deactivated or remains deactivated. Preferably, gripping of the handle area of ​​the handheld power tool is detected by pressing the operating switch. However, it would also be conceivable for a capacitive sensor to be arranged in the handle area of ​​the handheld power tool. Preferably, the handheld power tool is placed into a standby operating state by means of the computing unit as soon as gripping of the handle area of ​​the auxiliary handle device is detected and transmitted to the computing unit.If the operating switch of the power tool is now pressed and thus a grasping of the handle area of the power tool is detected, a drive unit of the power tool is activated. It would also be conceivable that a grasping of the handle area of the additional handle device is only queried when the operating switch of the power tool is actuated. In this way, in particular, a more advantageous, safer and more reliable operation of the power tool can be achieved. For controlling the power tool by means of a receiver, various embodiments are conceivable, such as, for example, by means of an interrupt switch signal, a switching signal to an ELO and / or a serial bus communication.

[0021] The auxiliary handle device, the handheld power tool system, and the method according to the invention are not intended to be limited to the application and embodiment described above. In particular, the auxiliary handle device, the handheld power tool system, and the method according to the invention may have a number of individual elements, components, and units as well as method steps that differs from the number stated herein to fulfill a functionality described herein. Furthermore, in the value ranges specified in this disclosure, values ​​within the stated limits are also to be considered disclosed and can be used arbitrarily. drawing

[0022] Further advantages will become apparent from the following description of the drawings. The drawings illustrate two exemplary embodiments of the invention. The drawings, the description, and the claims contain numerous features in combination. Those skilled in the art will also expediently consider the features individually and combine them into useful further combinations.

[0023] They show: Fig. 1 a hand-held power tool system with a hand-held power tool and with an additional handle device according to the invention in a schematic partial sectional view, Fig. 2 a schematic diagram of the data connections of the handheld power tool system, Fig. 3 a partial section of the hand-held power tool system with the hand-held power tool and with the additional handle device according to the invention in an operating state, Fig. 4 the additional handle device according to the invention with a handle unit, with an interface unit, with a sensor, with a communication unit and with a vibration damping unit in a schematic sectional view, Fig. 5 a schematic flow diagram of a method for operating the hand-held power tool system and Fig. 6 an alternative additional handle device according to the invention with a handle unit, with an interface unit, with a sensor, with a communication unit and with a vibration damping unit in a schematic sectional view. Description of the embodiments

[0024] Fig. 1 shows a handheld power tool system 34a with a handheld power tool 12a. The handheld power tool 12a is formed by an angle grinder. The handheld power tool 12a is formed, for example, by a cordless angle grinder. However, another design that would appear appropriate to a person skilled in the art would also be conceivable. The handheld power tool 12a has a drive housing 52a and a drive unit 50a arranged in the drive housing 52a. Furthermore, the handheld power tool 12a has a gear housing 54a connected to the drive housing 52a, a gear 56a arranged in the gear housing 54a, and a tool interface 58a for connecting an insert tool 60a to the gear 56a. The drive housing 52a has a handle area 48a. An operating switch 62a is arranged on the drive housing 52a in the handle area 48a of the handheld power tool 12a.The operating switch 62a is formed by a pushbutton that must be continuously pressed during operation. However, another configuration of the operating switch 62a that would be deemed appropriate by a person skilled in the art would also be conceivable. The operating switch 62a is arranged, for example, on the underside of the drive housing 52a.

[0025] Furthermore, the handheld power tool 12a has a computing unit 24a. The computing unit 24a is formed, for example, by a microcontroller. The computing unit 24a includes a communication module 64a. The communication module 64a is formed, for example, by a Bluetooth module. Furthermore, the handheld power tool 12a includes a user interface unit 66a coupled to the computing unit 24a, said user interface unit having a display 68a and a control panel 70a. It would also be conceivable for the user interface unit 66a to include a touch display. The user interface unit 66a is arranged on the drive housing 52a. The handheld power tool 12a further includes a motion sensor 36a. The motion sensor 36a is formed by an acceleration sensor. However, another embodiment of the motion sensor 36a that would appear appropriate to a person skilled in the art would also be conceivable. The motion sensor 36a is arranged, for example, in the drive housing 52a.

[0026] Furthermore, the handheld power tool system 34a comprises an auxiliary handle device 10a. The auxiliary handle device 10a is formed by an auxiliary handle that can be detached from the handheld power tool 12a. The auxiliary handle device 10a forms a bar handle. The auxiliary handle device 10a has an interface unit 14a for a detachable connection to the handheld power tool 12a. The interface unit 14a is provided for a detachable, positive-locking fixation to the handheld power tool 12a. The auxiliary handle device 10a can be detachably connected mechanically to the handheld power tool 12a via the interface unit 14a. The interface unit 14a has a mechanical interface element 72a, which is provided to interact with a corresponding interface element 74a of the handheld power tool 12a.The interface element 72a of the interface unit 14a is formed, for example, by a threaded bolt intended to be screwed into an internal thread of the interface element 74a of the handheld power tool 12a. The interface element 74a of the handheld power tool 12a is arranged on the gear housing 54a. The interface element 74a of the handheld power tool 12a is integrated into the gear housing 54a.

[0027] The auxiliary handle device 10a further comprises a handle unit 16a, which comprises a handle region 18a. The handle unit 16a has a cylindrical basic shape. Furthermore, the auxiliary handle device 10a has a vibration damping unit 38a arranged between the handle region 18a and the interface unit 14a. The handle unit 16a is connected to the interface unit 14a via the vibration damping unit 38a. The handle unit 16a forms an actual handle body of the auxiliary handle device 10a, which has the handle region 18a, which is intended for direct gripping by an operator. The handle region 18a is intended to be grasped by an operator with one hand 76a. The handle region 18a is intended to be grasped by a second hand 76a of the operator. The handle region 18a comprises an approximately cylindrical gripping surface 28a.

[0028] Furthermore, the additional handle device 10a comprises a sensor 20a arranged in the gripping region 18a, which is intended to detect a gripping parameter, in particular a gripping of a hand 76a of an operator. The sensor 20a is formed by a capacitive sensor 20a. The sensor 20a is integrated into the gripping surface 28a of the gripping region 18a of the grip unit 16a. For this purpose, the gripping surface 28a of the gripping region 18a consists at least partially of the electrically conductive TPE. Preferably, the gripping surface 28a of the gripping region 18a consists entirely of the electrically conductive TPE. The capacitive measurement of the hand 76a is carried out by an electrically conductive TPE rubber coating in the gripping region 18a. However, it would also be conceivable for an electrically conductive structure to be provided inside the gripping region 18a. Calibration takes place in the non-contact state and in the contacted state. By comparing both capacities, the hand 76a is recognized.Here, the required charges are compared. It would also be conceivable to evaluate a frequency response to an emitted frequency.

[0029] The additional handle device 10a further comprises a functional unit 78a, which is partially arranged, in particular inserted, in the handle unit 16a and has a housing 80a and a rechargeable battery 82a arranged in the housing 80a. The rechargeable battery 82a has, for example, a capacity of 1000 mAh. The rechargeable battery 82a is, for example, formed by a 14500 cell. Furthermore, the functional unit 78a comprises a charging port 84a for the rechargeable battery 82a. The rechargeable battery 82a can be charged via the charging port 84a using a USB power supply. The charging port 84a is protected from dirt by a cap attached to an LED ring 86a. The charging port 84a is, for example, arranged on a side of the handle unit 16a facing away from the interface unit 14a. The charging port 84a is, for example, formed by a USB-C charging port.The auxiliary handle device 10a further comprises a communication unit 22a for wireless communication with the computing unit 24a of the handheld power tool 12a. The communication unit 22a is arranged, for example, in the housing 80a of the functional unit 78a. The communication unit 22a has a Bluetooth module 30a. The Bluetooth module 30a forms an interface for direct communication with the communication module 64a of the handheld power tool 12a. The Bluetooth module 30a is provided for providing and establishing a Bluetooth connection with the handheld power tool 12a.

[0030] Furthermore, the additional handle device 10a has a display unit 32a, which is provided at least for indicating a pairing status and / or a gripping status. The display unit 32a is arranged in an end region of the handle unit 16a facing away from the interface unit 14a. However, another arrangement of the display unit 32a that would appear appropriate to a person skilled in the art would also be conceivable. The display unit 32a serves, in particular, to communicate the detected state. The display unit 32a has an LED ring 86a arranged on the handle unit 16a. The representation of the detection of the hand 76a is signaled by means of the LED ring 86a of the display unit 32a at the end of the additional handle device 10a. The LED ring 86a can, for example, light up red if no hand 76a is detected and green if a hand 76a is detected.In addition, other colors can also signal different states, for example, flashing red can signal a low battery level, while flashing blue signals a connection being established.

[0031] The auxiliary handle device 10a has a motion sensor 26a. The motion sensor 26a is formed by an acceleration sensor. The motion sensor 26a is arranged, for example, in the housing 80a of the functional unit 78a. The motion sensor 26a is coupled to the communication unit 22a.

[0032] The communication unit 22a is provided, in at least one operating state, to wirelessly transmit the at least one gripping parameter and at least one coupling parameter of a mechanical coupling with the handheld power tool 12a to the computing unit 24a. The communication unit 22a is provided, in at least one operating state, to transmit a movement parameter of the movement sensor 26a as a coupling parameter to the computing unit 24a of the handheld power tool 12a. The computing unit 24a of the handheld power tool 12a is provided, via the communication unit 22a of the auxiliary handle device 10a, to retrieve the gripping parameter of the auxiliary handle device 10a and a movement characteristic of the movement sensor 26a of the auxiliary handle device 10a and to set an operating mode depending on a gripping state and the movement characteristic of the auxiliary handle device 10a.The computing unit 24a is provided during operation to set a standby operating state 92a of the handheld power tool 12a depending on a gripping state and the movement characteristic of the additional handle device 10a. The computing unit 24a is provided to activate a standby operating state 92a when the gripping area 18a of the additional handle device 10a is gripped and a movement characteristic of the additional handle device 10a substantially corresponds to a movement characteristic of the handheld power tool 12a, in particular when the additional handle device 10a moves synchronously with the handheld power tool 12a. The computing unit 24a of the handheld power tool 12a is provided to initially compare the movement characteristic of the additional handle device 10a and the movement characteristic of the handheld power tool 12a and to continuously compare them during the standby operating state 92a orto monitor the gripping state of the auxiliary handle device 10a during a working operating state. The comparison of the movement characteristic of the auxiliary handle device 10a and the movement characteristic of the handheld power tool 12a serves for wireless pairing of the auxiliary handle device 10a with the handheld power tool 12a, wherein it is already determined during pairing whether the auxiliary handle device 10a is permanently attached to the handheld power tool 12a. The computing unit 24a is configured for wireless pairing with the communication unit 22a to compare at least one movement characteristic of the movement sensor 26a of the auxiliary handle device 10a with a movement characteristic of the movement sensor 36a of the handheld power tool 12a.By comparing signal strength and movement information in combination with an exchange of a private connection ID, a direct connection can be established between the computing unit 24a and the communication unit 22a of the auxiliary handle device 10a. The computing unit 24a is configured to set the operating mode, in particular the standby operating state 92a, by comparing the movements of the auxiliary handle device 10a and the handheld power tool 12a based on the magnitude of the angular velocity vector. The comparison is particularly preferably performed based on the magnitude of the angular velocity vector in all three spatial axes. The advantage of evaluating the angular velocities is that they are independent of gravitational acceleration and are less affected by vibrations.

[0033] Fig. 5 shows a schematic flow diagram of a method for operating the handheld power tool system 34a. In the method, at least one movement characteristic of the movement sensor 26a of the auxiliary handle device 10a is compared with a movement characteristic of the movement sensor 36a of the handheld power tool 12a by means of the computing unit 24a initially to set an operating mode. For this purpose, in particular, a connection step 40a is carried out. In the connection step 40a, the computing unit 24a of the handheld power tool 12a connects to at least one communication unit 22a of at least one adjacent auxiliary handle device 10a and assigns a connection ID. In the connection step 40a, the computing unit 24a of the handheld power tool 12a connects to each nearby communication unit 22a of adjacent auxiliary handle devices 10a and assigns a connection ID for each auxiliary handle device 10a.In particular, a temporary coupling of the computing unit 24a, in particular the communication module 64a, with the nearby communication unit 22a of the auxiliary handle device 10a takes place. This is followed by a verification step 42a. After the connection step 40a, the computing unit 24a of the handheld power tool 12a retrieves a movement characteristic of the movement sensor 26a of the connected auxiliary handle device 10a in the verification step 42a and compares the movement characteristic of the movement sensor 26a of the connected auxiliary handle device 10a with a movement characteristic of the movement sensor 36a of the handheld power tool 12a. The movement characteristic of the movement sensor 26a of the connected auxiliary handle device 10a is retrieved via the communication unit 22a.If a movement of the auxiliary handle device 10a determined based on the movement characteristic of the movement sensor 26a of the auxiliary handle device 10a does not match a movement of the handheld power tool 12a determined based on the movement characteristic of the movement sensor 36a of the handheld power tool 12a, a separation step 44a takes place. In the separation step 44a, the computing unit 24a of the handheld power tool 12a separates a connection between the computing unit 24a of the handheld power tool 12a and the communication unit 22a of the auxiliary handle device 10a. If a movement of the auxiliary handle device 10a determined based on the movement characteristic of the movement sensor 26a of the auxiliary handle device 10a matches a movement of the handheld power tool 12a determined based on the movement characteristic of the movement sensor 36a of the handheld power tool 12a, a storage step 88a takes place after the verification step 42a.In storage step 88a, the computing unit 24a of the handheld power tool 12a remains connected to the communication unit 22a of the auxiliary handle device 10a and stores the connection ID. The handheld power tool system 34a is now in a connected, awakened state.

[0034] In the awakened state, the computing unit 24a monitors, in an operating step 46a, gripping of the gripping area 18a of the auxiliary handle device 10a by an operator as well as gripping of the gripping area 48a of the handheld power tool 12a by an operator. If one of the gripping areas 18a, 48a is not gripped, the drive unit 50a of the handheld power tool 12a is deactivated in a deactivation state 90a or remains deactivated. In the deactivation state 90a, the LED ring 86a illuminates red, in particular if the gripping area 18a of the auxiliary handle device 10a is not gripped. Gripping of the gripping area 48a of the handheld power tool 12a is detected by pressing the operating switch 62a. The hand-held power tool 12a is placed into a stand-by operating state 92a by means of the computing unit 24a as soon as gripping of the gripping area 18a of the additional handle device 10a is detected and transmitted to the computing unit 24a.If the operating switch 62a of the hand-held power tool 12a is now pressed in an actuation step 94a and gripping of the gripping area 48a of the hand-held power tool 12a is thus detected, a drive unit 50a of the hand-held power tool 12a is activated and placed in an activation state 96a.

[0035] In the Fig. 6 shows a further embodiment of the invention. The following descriptions and the drawings are essentially limited to the differences between the embodiments, whereby with regard to components with the same designation, in particular with regard to components with the same reference numerals, reference is also made to the drawings and / or the description of the other embodiments, in particular to the Fig. 1 to 5. To distinguish the embodiments, the letter a is added to the reference numerals of the embodiment in the Fig. 1 to 5. In the examples of the Fig. 6, the letter a is replaced by the letter b.

[0036] Fig. 6 shows an auxiliary handle device 10b. The auxiliary handle device 10b is formed by an auxiliary handle that can be detached from a handheld power tool. The auxiliary handle device 10b forms a bar handle. The auxiliary handle device 10b has an interface unit 14b for a detachable connection to the handheld power tool.

[0037] The auxiliary handle device 10b further comprises a handle unit 16b, which comprises a handle region 18b. The handle unit 16b has a cylindrical basic shape. Furthermore, the auxiliary handle device 10b has a vibration damping unit 38b arranged between the handle region 18b and the interface unit 14b. The handle unit 16b is connected to the interface unit 14b via the vibration damping unit 38b. The handle unit 16b forms an actual handle body of the auxiliary handle device 10b, which has the handle region 18b, which is intended for direct gripping by an operator. The handle region 18b is intended to be grasped by an operator with one hand 76b. The handle region 18b is intended to be grasped by a second hand 76b of the operator. The handle region 18b comprises an approximately cylindrical gripping surface 28b.

[0038] Furthermore, the additional handle device 10b comprises a sensor 20b arranged in the gripping region 18b, which is intended to detect a gripping parameter, in particular a gripping of a hand 76b of an operator. The gripping surface 28b of the gripping region 18b consists at least partially of the electrically conductive TPE. Preferably, the gripping surface 28b of the gripping region 18b consists entirely of the electrically conductive TPE. The sensor 20b is intended to close an electrical circuit through the elastic deformation of the electrically conductive TPE and thus to detect pressure on the gripping surface 28b. For this purpose, the sensor 20b has an electrically conductive inner frame, which has gaps to the electrically conductive TPE of the gripping region 18b. When pressure is applied, the gap is closed.

Claims

[1] Auxiliary handle device for a hand-held power tool (12a), comprising an interface unit (14a; 14b) for a detachable connection to the hand-held power tool (12a), comprising at least one handle unit (16a; 16b) which has a gripping region (18a; 18b), and comprising at least one sensor (20a; 20b) arranged in the gripping region (18a; 18b), which is intended to detect at least one gripping parameter, in particular a gripping of a hand of an operator, characterized by at least one communication unit (22a; 22b) for wireless communication with a computing unit (24a) of the handheld power tool (12a), wherein the communication unit (22a; 22b) is provided in at least one operating state to wirelessly transmit the at least one gripping parameter and at least one coupling parameter of a, in particular mechanical, coupling with the handheld power tool (12a) to the computing unit (24a). [2] Auxiliary handle device according to claim 1, characterized by a motion sensor (26a; 26b), in particular an acceleration sensor, wherein the communication unit (22a; 22b) is provided in at least one operating state to transmit at least one motion parameter of the motion sensor (26a; 26b) as a coupling parameter to the computing unit (24a) of the hand-held power tool (12a). [3] Auxiliary handle device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by that the sensor (20a; 20b) is formed by a capacitive sensor. [4] Additional handle device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that a gripping surface (28a) of the gripping region (18a) consists at least partially of an electrically conductive TPE. [5] Additional handle device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the communication unit (22a; 22b) has a Bluetooth module (30a; 30b). [6] Additional handle device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by at least one display unit (32a; 32b) which is provided at least for indicating a pairing status and / or a gripping status. [7] Hand tool system, with an auxiliary handle device (10a; 10b) according to one of the preceding claims and with a hand tool (12a), characterized byin that the hand-held power tool (12a) has a computing unit (24a) and a motion sensor (36a), in particular an acceleration sensor, connected to the computing unit (24a), wherein the computing unit (24a) of the hand-held power tool (12a) is provided to retrieve a gripping parameter of the additional handle device (10a; 10b) and a movement characteristic of the motion sensor (26a; 26b) of the additional handle device (10a; 10b) via the communication unit (22a; 22b) of the additional handle device (10a; 10b) and to set an operating mode depending on a gripping state and the movement characteristic of the additional handle device (10a; 10b). [8] Hand tool system according to claim 7, characterized by in that the computing unit (24a) is configured to compare the movements of the auxiliary handle device (10a; 10b) and the hand-held power tool (12a) on the basis of an amount of the vector of the angular velocities in order to set the operating mode. [9] Hand tool system according to one of claims 7 and 8, characterized by that the computing unit (24a) is configured for wireless pairing with the communication unit (22a; 22b) to compare at least one movement characteristic of the movement sensor (26a; 26b) of the additional handle device (10a; 10b) with a movement characteristic of the movement sensor (36a) of the hand-held power tool (12a). [10] Hand tool system according to one of claims 7 to 9, characterized by that the additional handle device (10a) has at least one interface unit (14a) for a detachable, at least positive fixing to the hand-held power tool (12a), wherein the additional handle device (10a) has at least one vibration damping unit (38a) arranged at least partially between the handle region (18a) and the interface unit (14a). [11] Method for operating the hand-held power tool system (34a) according to one of claims 7 to 10. [12] Method according to claim 11, characterized by that by means of the computing unit (24a) initially for setting an operating mode at least one movement characteristic of a movement sensor (26a; 26b) of the additional handle device (10a; 10b) is compared with a movement characteristic of a movement sensor (36a) of the hand-held power tool (12a). [13] Method according to claim 11 or 12, characterized by that the computing unit (24a) of the hand-held power tool (12a) connects to at least one communication unit (22a; 22b) of at least one adjacent additional handle device (10a) in at least one connection step (40a) and assigns a connection ID. [14] Method according to one of claims 11 to 13, characterized bythat the computing unit (24a) of the hand-held power tool (12a), in particular after the connecting step (40a), retrieves a movement characteristic of a movement sensor (26a; 26b) of the connected auxiliary handle device (10a; 10b) in at least one verification step (42a) and compares it with a movement characteristic of the movement sensor (36a) of the hand-held power tool (12a), wherein the computing unit (24a) of the hand-held power tool (12a) disconnects a connection between the computing unit (24a) of the hand-held power tool (12a) and the communication unit (22a; 22b) of the auxiliary handle device (10a; 10b) in a disconnecting step (44a) if a movement of the auxiliary handle device (10a; 10b) determined on the basis of the movement characteristic of the movement sensor (26a; 26b) of the auxiliary handle device (10a; 10b) does not correspond to a movement determined on the basis of the movement of the hand-held power tool (12a) determined by the movement characteristic of the movement sensor (36a) of the hand-held power tool (12a). [15] Method according to one of claims 11 to 14, characterized by in that the computing unit (24a) monitors, in an operating step (46a), gripping of a gripping area (18a; 18b) of the additional handle device (10a; 10b) by an operator and gripping of a gripping area (48a) of the hand-held power tool (12a) by an operator, wherein if one of the gripping areas (18a, 48a; 18b) is not gripped, a drive unit (50a) of the hand-held power tool (12a) is deactivated or remains deactivated.

Images