AIR COMPRESSOR WITH AIR STORAGE DEVICE INTEGRATED IN THE HOUSING

Abstract

A power tool compressor is connected to a flexible tubular compressed air storage device. The compressor housing has an integrated spool. The spool is designed to receive and store turns of the tubular storage device wound around the spool. The spool rotatably surrounds a central portion of the compressor housing, which encloses a compressor pump and a rechargeable battery. The tubular storage device has an interior space extending between opposite ends of the device. The interior space of the tubular storage device has the volume necessary to store compressed air to power the power tool. The integrated spool allows the tubular compressed air storage device to be wound onto it for easy use, storage, and transport, resulting in a compact and lightweight compressed air storage solution.

Description

background

[0001] Air compressors are commonly used to power a wide variety of pneumatic or air-driven tools. Some of the power tools that can be operated with an air compressor include nail guns, impact wrenches, pneumatic ratchet screwdrivers, jackhammers, drills, grinders and sanders, aerosol cans, staplers, and so on. These are just a few examples of power tools that can be operated with an air compressor. The advantage of pneumatic tools is that they often provide high power and durability while being relatively lightweight and easy to handle. However, air compressors can have a tank for pressurizing air and storing the pressurized air (e.g., compressed air). Such compressors typically use metal storage tanks, which are large, bulky, and heavy. This makes them difficult to move and store. Brief description

[0002] In some aspects, a compressor for a power tool is connected to a flexible, tubular compressed air storage device instead of a rigid compressed air tank. The compressor has a compressor housing with an integrated coil. The coil is rotatable about a central section of the compressor housing and is designed to receive and store turns of the tubular storage device wound around it. The coil surrounds the central section of the compressor housing and is rotatable about the central section of the compressor housing, which encloses a compressor pump and a rechargeable battery. The tubular storage device has an interior that extends between and is connected to couplings located at opposite ends of the device.The interior of the tubular storage device has the necessary volume to store compressed air used to power the power tool. Instead of a rigid, large-diameter storage device, this design uses a long length of flexible tubing with a relatively small diameter to store the compressed air. Additionally, the integrated spool allows the tubular compressed air storage device to be wound up for easy use, storage, and transport, resulting in a compact and lightweight compressed air storage solution.

[0003] In some aspects, an air compressor comprises a compressor housing and a compressor pump located within the compressor housing. The compressor pump has an air inlet and an air outlet. The air compressor also includes a motor located within the compressor housing. The motor is connected to the compressor pump and is designed to drive it. The air compressor has a pressure control device located within the compressor housing and an air inlet valve connected to the compressor pump's air inlet via a first fluid line. The air inlet valve is designed to selectively allow airflow from the compressor's surroundings to the compressor pump. Additionally, the air compressor has an air outlet valve connected to the compressor pump's air outlet via a second fluid line.The air outlet valve is designed to selectively allow airflow from the compressor pump to an air storage device. The compressor housing has a hollow first cylindrical section that accommodates and supports the compressor pump and the pressure control device. The first cylindrical section has a first housing end, a second housing end opposite the first housing end, and a cylindrical housing side wall extending between the first and second housing ends. A height dimension of the first cylindrical section corresponds to a distance between the first and second housing ends. The compressor housing has a first housing flange located between the first housing end and a midpoint of the first cylindrical section.The first housing flange projects outwards from the housing side wall and extends along the circumference of the housing side wall. The compressor housing has a second housing flange located between the second housing end and the midpoint of the first cylindrical section. The second housing flange also projects outwards from the housing side wall and extends along the circumference of the housing side wall. Additionally, the compressor housing has a coil that is rotatably mounted on the compressor housing.

[0004] In some embodiments, the coil has a hollow second cylindrical section that surrounds the housing side wall. The second cylindrical section has a first coil end, a second coil end opposite the first coil end, and a cylindrical coil side wall extending between the first and second coil ends. A height dimension of the second cylindrical section corresponds to a distance between the first and second coil ends. The coil has a first coil flange located between the first coil end and a midpoint of the second cylindrical section. The first coil flange projects outward from the coil side wall and extends along at least a portion of the circumference of the coil side wall. The coil has a second coil flange located between the second coil end and a midpoint of the second cylindrical section.The second coil flange projects outwards from the coil side wall and extends along at least part of the circumference of the coil side wall. The second cylindrical section is concentric with the first cylindrical section, and the first coil flange, the second cylindrical section, and the second coil flange are arranged between the first housing flange and the second housing flange.

[0005] In some embodiments, the second coil flange has a through-hole which has a shape and dimensions to accommodate a hose of a compressed air storage device with clearance fit.

[0006] In some embodiments, the second housing flange is arranged at the second housing end, the coil side wall has a first through-hole arranged between the second coil flange and the second coil end, the second coil flange has a second through-hole, and the first through-hole and the second through-hole are designed to receive a hose of a compressed air storage device with clearance fit.

[0007] In some embodiments, a human-machine interface (HMI), supported on an outer surface of the first housing end, and a controller are located inside the compressor housing. The controller is electrically connected to the HMI and is designed to control the operation of the compressor pump based on inputs received from the HMI.

[0008] In some embodiments, the second coupling is a quick-release coupling.

[0009] In some embodiments, the first coupling allows a 360-degree rotation between the air outlet valve and the hose.

[0010] In some embodiments, the air compressor is powered by a rechargeable battery located in the compressor housing.

[0011] In some embodiments, the air compressor is powered by mains electricity via a wired connection.

[0012] In some aspects, an air compressor system comprises a compressor housing and a compressor pump located within the compressor housing. The compressor pump has an air inlet and an air outlet. The air compressor system includes a motor located within the compressor housing. The motor is connected to the compressor pump and designed to drive the compressor pump. The air compressor system includes a pressure control device located within the compressor housing. The air compressor system includes an air inlet valve connected to the air inlet of the compressor pump via a first fluid line, the air inlet valve being designed to selectively allow airflow from the compressor's surroundings to the compressor pump. The air compressor system includes an air outlet valve connected to the air outlet of the compressor pump via a second fluid line.The air outlet valve is designed to selectively allow airflow from the compressor pump to an air storage device. The air compressor system also includes the air storage device. The compressor housing has a hollow first cylindrical section that accommodates and supports the compressor pump and the pressure control device. The first cylindrical section has a first housing end, a second housing end opposite the first housing end, and a cylindrical housing side wall extending between the first and second housing ends. A height dimension of the first cylindrical section corresponds to a distance between the first and second housing ends. The compressor housing has a first housing flange located between the first housing end and a midpoint of the first cylindrical section.The first housing flange projects outward from the housing side wall and extends along the circumference of the housing side wall. Additionally, the compressor housing has a second housing flange located between the second housing end and a midpoint of the first cylindrical section. The second housing flange also projects outward from the housing side wall and extends along the circumference of the housing side wall. The air outlet valve is supported at the second housing end. The air storage device comprises an elongated hose with a first device end detachably connected to the air outlet valve via a first coupling, and a second device end opposite the first device end. The second device end has a second coupling. The hose has sufficient flexibility to bend into a loop with a radius equal to the radius of the housing side wall.

[0013] In some embodiments, the air compressor system includes a coil rotatably supported on the compressor housing. The coil has a hollow second cylindrical section that surrounds the housing side wall. The second cylindrical section has a first coil end, a second coil end opposite the first coil end, and a cylindrical coil side wall extending between the first and second coil ends. A height dimension of the second cylindrical section corresponds to a distance between the first and second coil ends. The coil has a first coil flange located between the first coil end and a mean height of the second cylindrical section. The first coil flange projects outward from the coil side wall and extends along at least a portion of the circumference of the coil side wall.Additionally, the coil has a second coil flange located between the second coil end and the midpoint of the second cylindrical section. The second coil flange projects outward from the coil side wall and extends along at least part of the circumference of the coil side wall. The second cylindrical section is concentric with the first cylindrical section, and the first and second coil flanges are positioned between the first and second housing flanges.

[0014] In some embodiments, the second coil flange has a through-hole which has a shape and dimensions to accommodate a hose of a compressed air storage device with clearance fit.

[0015] In some embodiments, the second housing flange is arranged at the second housing end, the coil side wall has a first through-hole arranged between the second coil flange and the second coil end, the second coil flange has a second through-hole, and the first through-hole and the second through-hole are designed to receive a hose of a compressed air storage device with clearance fit.

[0016] In some embodiments, the air compressor system features a human-machine interface (HMI) supported on an outer surface of the first housing end and a controller located within the compressor housing. The controller is electrically connected to the HMI and is designed to control the operation of the compressor pump based on inputs received from the HMI.

[0017] In some embodiments, the second coupling is a quick-release coupling.

[0018] In some embodiments, the first coupling allows a 360-degree rotation between the air outlet valve and the hose.

[0019] In some embodiments, the air compressor is powered by a rechargeable battery located in the compressor housing.

[0020] In some embodiments, the air compressor is powered by mains electricity via a wired connection. Brief description of the drawings Fig. Figure 1 is a perspective view of a system for supplying compressed air to a handheld power tool. Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram of the system of Fig. 1, in which a single line represents an electrical connection and a double line represents a fluid connection. Fig. Figure 3 is a first perspective view of an air compressor of the system. Fig. Figure 4 is a second perspective view of the air compressor. Fig. Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of the air compressor, as shown along line 5-5 of Fig. 1 seen. Fig. Figure 6 is a schematic view of the connection between the air compressor and a compressed air storage device of the system. Fig. Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of the hose of the compressed air storage device, as shown along line 7-7 of Fig. 6 seen. Detailed description

[0021] With reference to Fig. 1 and Fig. Figure 2 comprises a power tool system 15, a pneumatically driven power tool 100, an air compressor 1, and a compressed air storage device 60. The power tool 100 can be a hand tool such as a nail gun, impact wrench, pneumatic ratchet wrench, jackhammer, pneumatic drill, pneumatic grinder, pneumatic sander, aerosol can, stapler, or any other air-powered power tool. The power tool 100 is directly connected to the air compressor 1 via the compressed air storage device 60. In the exemplary embodiment, the compressed air storage device 60 is an elongated flexible hose 61 designed to store air compressed to pressures of 50 to 300 pounds per square inch (PSI) or more and to provide a reservoir for a continuous supply of compressed air to the power tool 100 during tool operation.The air compressor 1 has a compressor housing 20 that incorporates a spool 40. The hose 61 is sufficiently flexible to allow it to be wound around the spool 40, enabling the elongated compressed air storage device 60 to be stored and transported compactly with the air compressor 1. The compressed air storage device 60 can be used in a fully coiled configuration. Alternatively, the compressed air storage device 60 can be used in a partially or fully uncoiled configuration. The air compressor 1 and the compressed air storage device 60 will now be described in detail.

[0022] With reference to Fig. 2-5 The air compressor 1 can be a positive displacement compressor, such as that provided by a reciprocating pump, but it is not limited to this type of pump. The air compressor 1 has a compressor housing 20, which is described in detail below. The compressor housing 20 encloses and / or supports the other components of the air compressor 1, including a compressor pump 2, a motor 5, a controller 10, a human-machine interface (HMI) 11, a battery 12, a pressure regulator 13, and other auxiliary components necessary for the operation of the air compressor 1.

[0023] In this embodiment, the compressor pump 2 is a reciprocating piston pump, but it could also be another type of positive displacement pump. The compressor pump 2 uses one or more reciprocating pistons (not shown) to compress air. The compressor pump 2 has an air inlet 3 and an air outlet 4.

[0024] The air inlet 3 is connected to a compressor air inlet valve 6 via a first fluid line 7. The air outlet valve 6 is supported on the compressor housing 20. When the air inlet valve 6 is in an open position, air in the vicinity of the compressor 1 (e.g., air at atmospheric pressure) is permitted to enter the first fluid line 7. When the air inlet valve 6 is in a closed position, air in the vicinity of the compressor 1 is prevented from entering the first fluid line 7. An air filter 14 can be provided at a location between the air inlet valve 6 and the pump air inlet 3 in the first fluid line 7.

[0025] The air outlet 4 is connected via a second fluid line 9 to a compressor air outlet valve 8. The air outlet valve 8 is supported on the compressor housing 20 and has an integrated fluid coupling. When the air outlet valve 8 is in an open position, air compressed by the compressor pump 2 is allowed to escape from the compressor housing 20. When the compressed air storage device 60 is connected to the fluid coupling of the air outlet valve, air compressed by the compressor pump 2 is allowed to enter the compressed air storage device 60. When the air outlet valve 8 is in a closed position, compressed air is prevented from escaping the compressor housing 20.

[0026] The pressure control device 13 is designed to monitor the outlet pressure of the air compressor 1. In this embodiment, the pressure control device 13 can be a pressure switch that monitors the pressure of the fluid discharged by the compressor pump 2 and sends a signal to the control unit indicating the detected pressure. The pressure switch can, for example, detect the pressure of the second fluid line 9 at a point between the compressor pump 2 and the compressor outlet valve 8.

[0027] Motor 5 is an electric motor. In some embodiments, motor 5 can be an induction motor, but it is not limited to this type of motor. An output shaft (not shown) of motor 5 is connected to the compressor pump 2, and motor 5 drives the pump 2 to compress air.

[0028] In this embodiment, a battery 12 is contained within the compressor housing 20 and supplies power to the control unit 10, which in turn powers the motor 5. The battery 12 can be a rechargeable battery that is charged via a detachable wired connection to mains power. In some embodiments, the air compressor 1 may not contain a battery 12 and may receive power via a direct wired connection to mains power. In still other embodiments, the air compressor 1 may contain the battery 12 and be powered either by the battery 12 or by a direct connection to mains power.

[0029] The controller 10 is communicatively connected to the HMI 11, the battery 12, and the pressure control device 13 and is designed to control the motor 5 based on these inputs. As used here, the term "communicatively coupled" can refer to a direct wired connection via, for example, electrically conductive signal lines or shared communication buses, or alternatively, to a wireless connection. Thus, the controller 10 can receive information from these devices and selectively activate and operate the various operating components.

[0030] In some embodiments, the controller 10 includes one or more memory devices 10a and one or more processors 10b. The processors 10b can be any combination of general-purpose or specialized processors, CPUs, or the like, capable of executing programming instructions or control code associated with the operation of the air compressor 1. The memory devices (i.e., the memory) 10a can represent random-access memory, such as DRAM, or read-only memory, such as ROM or FLASH. In some embodiments, the processor 10b executes programming instructions stored in the memory 10a. The memory 10a can be a separate component from the processor 10b or it can be integrated into the processor 10b.Alternatively, the controller 10 can be designed without the use of a processor 10b, for example by using a combination of discrete analog or digital logic circuits (such as switches, amplifiers, integrators, comparators, flip-flops, AND gates and the like) to perform control functionality instead of relying on software.

[0031] In some embodiments, the controller 10 includes a network interface, allowing it to be connected to and communicate with one or more networks (not shown). The controller 10 may also include one or more transmit, receive, or transmit-receive components for sending and / or receiving communications with other devices that are communicatively coupled to the air compressor 1. Additionally or alternatively, the transmit, receive, or transmit-receive components may be located outside the controller 10. Generally, the controller 10 may be located at any suitable point within the compressor housing 20.

[0032] The various functions performed by the controller 10 can be implemented or supported by one or more computer programs, each of which is composed of computer-readable program code and implemented in a computer-readable medium. The terms "application" and "program" refer to one or more computer programs, software components, sets of instructions, procedures, functions, objects, classes, instances, associated data, or a portion thereof, adapted for implementation in suitable computer-readable program code. The phrase "computer-readable program code" includes any type of computer code, including source code, object code, and executable code.The term "computer-readable medium" includes any type of medium that can be accessed by a computer, such as read-only memory (ROM), random-access memory (RAM), a hard disk drive, a compact disc (CD), a digital video disc (DVD), or any other type of storage. "Non-volatile" computer-readable medium excludes wired, wireless, optical, or other communication links that carry transient electrical or other signals. Non-volatile computer-readable medium includes media in which data can be permanently stored and media in which data can be stored and subsequently overwritten, such as a rewritable optical disc or an erasable storage device.

[0033] The compressor housing 20 comprises a central housing section 20a, which is designed to house and / or support the components of the air compressor 1. The compressor housing 20 also has a circumferential housing section 20b, which is arranged radially outward with respect to the central housing section 20a and supports the coil 40.

[0034] The central section 20a of the compressor housing 20 has a hollow first cylindrical section 21 that accommodates and supports the compressor pump 2, the motor 5, the air filter 14, the pressure control device 13, the HMI 11, the control unit 10, the air inlet and outlet valves 6, 8, and any auxiliary components required for the operation of the compressor. The first cylindrical section 21 includes a first housing end 22, a second housing end 23 opposite the first housing end 22, and a cylindrical housing side wall 24 extending axially between the first housing end 22 and the second housing end 23. The housing side wall 24 has a uniform diameter between the first and second housing ends 22, 23. A height dimension H1 of the first cylindrical section 21 corresponds to a distance between the first housing end 22 and the second housing end 23.

[0035] The HMI 11 is mounted at the first housing end 22 and may include switches or other input devices and / or a display. The HMI 11 is designed to allow the user to operate the air compressor 1 and to receive information about the air compressor's performance. In some embodiments, the display may be color, non-color (e.g., grayscale), or a combination of both. The display may be implemented as any type of display, including a liquid crystal display (LCD), light-emitting diodes (LD), organic light-emitting diodes (OLED), or any other alternative configuration known to those skilled in the art. The display may provide touchscreen functionality, and a pressure level selector switch may be integrated into the HMI 11.

[0036] The air outlet valve 8 terminates in a hose coupling 28, which projects from the compressor housing 20 next to the second housing end 23. The hose coupling 28 is designed to provide a fluid-tight mechanical connection with a first coupling 64 of the air storage device 60. In addition, in some embodiments, the hose coupling 28 can have 360-degree, bidirectional rotation capabilities, allowing the air storage device 60 to rotate relative to the compressor.

[0037] The circumferential section 20b of the compressor housing 20 has a first housing flange 25 and a second housing flange 27. The first housing flange 25 is arranged between the first housing end 22 and a mean height 26 of the first cylindrical section 21. The first housing flange 25 is a rigid annular structure that projects outward from the housing side wall 24 and extends along the circumference of the housing side wall 24. The second housing flange 27 is arranged between the mean height 26 of the first cylindrical section 21 and the second housing end 23. In this embodiment, the first and second housing flanges 25, 27 completely surround the housing side wall 24. In other embodiments, the first and second housing flanges 25, 27 partially surround the housing side wall 24.

[0038] In the exemplary embodiment, the first housing flange 25 is arranged below, but close to, the first housing end 22, while the second housing flange 27 is arranged at the second housing end 23.

[0039] The radial dimension R hf The height of the first and second housing flanges 25, 27 is small relative to the height H1 of the first cylindrical section 21. For example, the height H1 of the first cylindrical section is at least four times the radial dimension R. hf the first and second housing flanges 25, 27.

[0040] The coil 40 is rotatably supported on the compressor housing 20. Like the compressor housing 20, the coil 40 has a central coil section 40a that surrounds the central housing section 20a. The coil 40 also has a circumferential coil section 40b that is arranged radially outward with respect to the central coil section 40a and is located between the first and second housing flanges 25, 27 in an axial direction of the compressor housing 20.

[0041] The central coil section 40a has a hollow second cylindrical section 41 that surrounds the housing side wall 24 in a sliding fit. The second cylindrical section 41 is concentric with the first cylindrical section 21. The second cylindrical section 41 includes a first coil end 42, a second coil end 43 opposite the first coil end 42, and a cylindrical coil side wall 44 extending between the first coil end 42 and the second coil end 43. The coil side wall 44 is concentric with the housing side wall 24. The coil side wall 44 has a non-uniform diameter between the first and second coil ends 42, 43. In particular, the second coil end 43 has a larger diameter than the first coil end 42. The height dimension H2 of the second cylindrical section 41 corresponds to a distance between the first coil end 42 and the second coil end 43.The transition between diameters occurs at a point between the mean height 46 of the second cylindrical section 41 and the second coil end 43. The height H2 of the second cylindrical section 41 is greater than the height H1 of the first cylindrical section.

[0042] The circumferential section 40b of the coil 40 has a first coil flange 45 and a second coil flange 47. The first coil flange 45 is arranged between the first coil end 42 and the mid-height 46 of the second cylindrical section 41. The first coil flange 45 is a rigid annular structure that projects outwards from the coil side wall 44 and extends along the circumference of the coil side wall 44. The second coil flange 47 is arranged between the mid-height 46 of the second cylindrical section 41 and the second coil end 43. In this embodiment, the first and second coil flanges 45, 47 completely surround the coil side wall 44. In other embodiments, the first and second coil flanges 45, 47 partially surround the coil side wall 44.

[0043] In this embodiment, the first coil flange 45 is arranged at the first coil end 42, while the second coil flange 47 is arranged at a distance from the second coil end 43. Specifically, the second coil flange 47 is located at the transition between the diameters of the second cylindrical section 41. In this embodiment, the transition and the second coil flange 47 are closer to the second coil end 43 than to the mean height 46 of the second cylindrical section. This configuration provides an annular spacer 49 that raises the second coil flange 47 relative to a support surface such as a tabletop or floor. The spacer 49 provides sufficient space to accommodate and enclose the projecting hose coupling 28. Additionally, the spacer 49 provides space for the hose 61, which forms the air storage device 60, to pass between the second coil flange 47 and the support surface.For this purpose, the coil side wall 44 has a radially extending through hole or slot 52 which allows the hose 61 to pass through it.

[0044] The coil 40, including the first coil flange 45, the second cylindrical section 41, and the second coil flange 47, is arranged between the first housing flange 25 and the second housing flange 27. The outer surface of the first cylindrical section 21 serves as a bearing surface, and the coil 40 rotates relative to the first cylindrical section 21 about an axis of rotation 50. References hereto to a direction such as axial and radial are made with respect to the axis of rotation 50. Rotation of the coil 40 with respect to the first cylindrical section 21 facilitates winding the air storage device onto the compressor housing 20.

[0045] The radial dimension R sfThe height of the first and second coil flanges 45, 47 can be approximately equal to the height H2 of the second cylindrical section 41. For example, the height H2 of the second cylindrical section can be in a range of 0.5 to 1.5 times the radial dimension R. sf the first and second coil flanges 45, 47 are located.

[0046] The second coil flange 47 has an axially extending through hole 48 which has a shape and dimensions for receiving the hose 61 with clearance fit.

[0047] With reference to Fig. In Figures 2 and 5-7, the air storage device 60 is an elongated hose 61 with a first device end 62, which is detachably connected to the hose coupling 28 of the air outlet valve 8 via a first device coupling 64, and a second device end 63, which is opposite the first device end 62. The second device end 62 has a second device coupling 65. The first device coupling 64 is designed for a fluid-tight detachable connection to the hose coupling 28 of the air compressor 1, for example, using a quick-connect fitting. Similarly, the second device coupling 65 is designed for a fluid-tight detachable connection to the tool coupling 102, for example, using a quick-connect fitting.

[0048] The hose 61 is elongated. In particular, the hose diameter d is much smaller than a (not shown) length of the hose 61, where the length of the hose corresponds to a distance between the first and second hose ends 62, 63. The hose length is at least 10 times the diameter d of the hose 61. In some embodiments, the hose length is more than 50 times the diameter d of the hose 61. The hose 61 has sufficient flexibility to bend into a loop with a radius r1 that is less than or equal to a radius r2 of the housing side wall 24. The size and capacity of the hose 61 can depend on factors such as the output capacity of the air compressor 1, the required air pressure, and the air requirements of the specific application (for example, the pressure required by the power tool 100).In some embodiments, the air storage device 60 has sufficient capacity to handle the required tool operating pressure and provide adequate storage capacity to meet the requirements of the compressed air system. Increasing the hose's internal volume by providing a longer hose 61 is one way to achieve this. The hose 61 has an internal volume sufficient to power a pneumatic power tool, which may require a storage capacity of eight liters or more to sustain high-airflow applications. However, most pneumatic tools operate with lower capacities. Nail guns, for example, can be operated with a capacity of one liter or less, depending on the specific tool, the compressor used, and the required charging time.Providing the hose 61 in a coiled configuration allows the use of a very long hose 61 while providing a compact air storage configuration.

[0049] The hose 61 is constructed using multiple layers of material to ensure durability, flexibility, and resistance to high-pressure air ( Fig.7) In the exemplary embodiment, the hose 61 has an inner hose 66, at least one reinforcing layer 68, and an outer hose 69. The innermost layer of the hose 61 is the inner hose 66, which is responsible for transporting the compressed air. The inner hose 66 can be made of synthetic rubber or a similar material that can withstand high-pressure air and resist degradation by oil or moisture. The reinforcing layer(s) 68 surround the inner hose 66 and provide strength and stability to the hose 61. In the exemplary embodiment, there are four reinforcing layers 68. Each reinforcing layer typically consists of braided or spiral synthetic fibers, such as polyester or nylon. The reinforcing layers 68 help the hose 61 to withstand the internal pressure caused by the compressed air and prevent expansion or bursting of the hose 61.The outermost layer of the hose 61 is the outer hose 69 or cover, which protects the inner layers 66 and 68 from external damage, abrasion, and exposure to the elements. The outer hose 69 is typically made of synthetic rubber or a mixture of rubber and other materials. The outer hose 69 is designed to withstand oil, chemicals, UV radiation, and general wear and tear.

[0050] The first and second couplings 64, 65 of the compressed air storage device are connectors or fittings that allow easy attachment to the compressor and other pneumatic tools or equipment. The fittings of the first and second device couplings 64, 65 can be made of brass, steel, or other durable materials and are typically threaded or equipped with quick-release coupling mechanisms for secure and leak-free connections.

[0051] The construction of hose 61 can vary depending on the specific application, desired flexibility and manufacturer's design.

[0052] In the power tool system 15, the power tool 100 is directly connected to the air compressor 1 via the compressed air storage device 60. That is, the first device coupling 64 is directly connected to the coupling of the air outlet valve 8 of the air compressor 1, without any intervening structures or devices. Additionally, the second device coupling 65 is directly connected to the tool coupling 102 of the power tool 100, without any intervening structures or devices. Furthermore, the compressed air storage device 60 stores compressed air to power the power tool 100 during use.

[0053] Selective embodiments of the compressed air supply system, including the air compressor and the compressed air storage device, are described in detail above. It is understood that only structures deemed necessary for explaining the compressed air supply system have been described here. It is assumed that other conventional structures and those of auxiliary and accessory components of the compressed air supply system are known and understood by those skilled in the art. Furthermore, although a working example of the compressed air supply system has been described above, the system is not limited to this working example; rather, various modifications to the design can be made without deviating from the system and / or its components as defined in the claims.

Claims

[1] Air compressor, comprising: a compressor housing; a compressor pump arranged in the compressor housing, wherein the compressor pump has an air inlet and an air outlet; a motor arranged in the compressor housing, wherein the motor is connected to the compressor pump and is designed to drive the compressor pump; a pressure regulating device located in the compressor housing; an air inlet valve connected via a first fluid line to the air inlet of the compressor pump, wherein the air inlet valve is designed to selectively allow an airflow from an environment of the compressor to the compressor pump; and an air outlet valve connected to the air outlet of the compressor pump via a second fluid line, wherein the air outlet valve is designed to selectively allow an air flow from the compressor pump to an air storage device; the compressor housing includes: a hollow first cylindrical section that accommodates and supports the compressor pump and the pressure regulating device, wherein the first cylindrical section comprises a first casing end, a second casing end opposite the first casing end, and a cylindrical casing side wall extending between the first casing end and the second casing end, wherein a height dimension of the first cylindrical section corresponds to a distance between the first casing end and the second casing end; a first housing flange located between the first housing end and a mean height of the first cylindrical section, the first housing flange projecting outwards from the housing side wall and extending along the circumference of the housing side wall; a second housing flange arranged between the second housing end and a mean height of the first cylindrical section, the second housing flange projecting outwards from the housing side wall and extending along the circumference of the housing side wall; and a coil that is rotatably supported on the compressor housing. [2] Air compressor according to claim 1, wherein the coil comprises: a hollow second cylindrical section surrounding the housing side wall, the second cylindrical section comprising a first coil end, a second coil end opposite the first coil end, and a cylindrical coil side wall extending between the first coil end and the second coil end, wherein a height dimension of the second cylindrical section corresponds to a distance between the first coil end and the second coil end; a first coil flange arranged between the first coil end and a mean height of the second cylindrical section, the first coil flange projecting outwards from the coil side wall and extending at least along a portion of the circumference of the coil side wall; and a second coil flange arranged between the second coil end and a mean height of the second cylindrical section, wherein the second coil flange projects outwards from the coil side wall and extends at least along part of the circumference of the coil side wall, where the second cylindrical section is concentric with the first cylindrical section, and the first coil flange, the second cylindrical section and the second coil flange are arranged between the first housing flange and the second housing flange. [3] Air compressor according to claim 2, wherein the second coil flange has a through-hole having a shape and dimensions for receiving a hose of a compressed air storage device with clearance fit. [4] Air compressor according to claim 2, wherein the second housing flange is located at the second housing end, the coil side wall has a first through-opening located between the second coil flange and the second coil end, the second coil flange has a second through-hole, and The first through-hole and the second through-hole are designed to accommodate a hose of a compressed air storage device with clearance fitting. [5] Air compressor according to claim 1, comprising: a human-machine interface (HMI) supported on an outer surface of the first housing end; and a controller located in the compressor housing, wherein the controller is electrically connected to the HMI and is designed to control the operation of the compressor pump based on inputs received from the HMI. [6] Air compressor according to claim 1, wherein the second coupling is a quick coupling. [7] Air compressor according to claim 1, wherein the first coupling allows a 360-degree rotation between the air outlet valve and the hose. [8] Air compressor according to claim 1, wherein the air compressor is powered by a rechargeable battery arranged in the compressor housing. [9] Air compressor according to claim 1, wherein the air compressor is driven by mains power via a wired connection. [10] Air compressor system, comprising: a compressor housing; a compressor pump arranged in the compressor housing, wherein the compressor pump has an air inlet and an air outlet; a motor arranged in the compressor housing, wherein the motor is connected to the compressor pump and is designed to drive the compressor pump; a pressure regulating device located in the compressor housing; an air inlet valve connected via a first fluid line to the air inlet of the compressor pump, wherein the air inlet valve is designed to selectively allow an airflow from an environment of the compressor to the compressor pump; and an air outlet valve connected via a second fluid line to the air outlet of the compressor pump, wherein the air outlet valve is designed to selectively allow airflow from the compressor pump to an air storage device; and the air storage device, the compressor housing includes: a hollow first cylindrical section that accommodates and supports the compressor pump and the pressure regulating device, wherein the first cylindrical section comprises a first casing end, a second casing end opposite the first casing end, and a cylindrical casing side wall extending between the first casing end and the second casing end, wherein a height dimension of the first cylindrical section corresponds to a distance between the first casing end and the second casing end; a first housing flange arranged between the first housing end and a mean height of the first cylindrical section, the first housing flange projecting outwards from the housing side wall and extending along the circumference of the housing side wall; and a second housing flange located between the second housing end and a mean height of the first cylindrical section, wherein the second housing flange projects outwards from the housing side wall and extends along the circumference of the housing side wall, and whereby the air outlet valve is supported at the second end of the housing, The air storage device comprises an elongated hose with a first device end which is detachably connected to the air outlet valve via a first coupling, and a second device end which is opposite the first device end, wherein the second device end comprises a second coupling and the hose has sufficient flexibility to bend into a loop with a radius that corresponds to the radius of the housing side wall. [11] Air compressor system according to claim 10, comprising a coil rotatably supported on the compressor housing, wherein the coil comprises: a hollow second cylindrical section surrounding the housing side wall, the second cylindrical section comprising a first coil end, a second coil end opposite the first coil end, and a cylindrical coil side wall extending between the first coil end and the second coil end, wherein a height dimension of the second cylindrical section corresponds to a distance between the first coil end and the second coil end; a first coil flange arranged between the first coil end and a mean height of the second cylindrical section, the first coil flange projecting outwards from the coil side wall and extending at least along a portion of the circumference of the coil side wall; and a second coil flange arranged between the second coil end and a mean height of the second cylindrical section, wherein the second coil flange projects outwards from the coil side wall and extends at least along part of the circumference of the coil side wall, where the second cylindrical section is concentric with the first cylindrical section, and the first coil flange and the second coil flange are arranged between the first housing flange and the second housing flange. [12] Air compressor system according to claim 11, wherein the second coil flange has a through-hole having a shape and dimensions for receiving a hose of a compressed air storage device with clearance fit. [13] Air compressor system according to claim 11, wherein: the second housing flange is located at the second housing end, the coil side wall has a first through-opening located between the second coil flange and the second coil end, the second coil flange has a second through-hole, and The first through-hole and the second through-hole are designed to accommodate a hose of a compressed air storage device with clearance fitting. [14] Air compressor system according to claim 10, comprising: a human-machine interface (HMI) supported on an outer surface of the first housing end; and a controller located in the compressor housing, wherein the controller is electrically connected to the HMI and is designed to control the operation of the compressor pump based on inputs received from the HMI. [15] Air compressor system according to claim 10, wherein the second coupling is a quick coupling. [16] Air compressor system according to claim 10, wherein the first coupling allows a 360-degree rotation between the air outlet valve and the hose. [17] Air compressor system according to claim 10, wherein the air compressor is driven by a rechargeable battery which is arranged in the compressor housing. [18] Air compressor system according to claim 10, wherein the air compressor is driven by mains power via a wired connection.

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