Diagnostic self-tests for power tools

Abstract

An electric tool device and a method are disclosed, wherein the electric tool device comprises a device housing, an electric tool battery interface coupled to the device housing, and an electronic control unit. The electronic control unit comprises memory for storing firmware and a processor configured to execute the firmware to cause the electronic control unit to: receive a request from an external device to perform a self-test; perform the self-test in response to the request; record results according to the self-test; and export the results to the external device. The electric tool device may also include an integrated diagnostic circuit comprising a separate processing circuit, a diagnostic sensor, and an external communication interface.The integrated diagnostic circuit receives power from an external device, performs a diagnostic test of the electronic control unit, and sends a test result of the electronic control unit's diagnostic test to the external device.

Description

Related registrations

[0001] This application claims priority over preliminary US application No. 63 / 675,084, filed on July 24, 2024, which is hereby incorporated in its entirety by reference. background

[0002] Power tools enable operators to perform various functions. To perform these different functions, power tools can include various electrical components, each responsible for performing one or more functions. Overview

[0003] Some embodiments of the disclosure specify a method for performing a tool diagnostic. The method comprises receiving a request from an external device to perform a self-test by an electronic control unit of a power tool device; executing firmware of the power tool device by the electronic control unit to perform the self-test in response to the request; recording results corresponding to the self-test by the electronic control unit executing the firmware; and exporting the results by the electronic control unit to the external device.

[0004] Some embodiments of the disclosure specify a power tool device. The power tool device comprises: a device housing; a power tool battery interface coupled to the device housing; an electronic control unit comprising a memory that stores firmware and a processor configured to execute the firmware in order to cause the electronic control unit to: receive a request from an external device to perform a self-test; perform the self-test in response to the request; record results according to the self-test; and export the results to the external device.

[0005] In some examples of the system or procedure, the request from the external device is received by the electronic control unit via connections of a battery interface of the power tool device.

[0006] In some examples, the system or procedure involves requesting an action to be performed by a user during the execution of the self-test, via the external device.

[0007] In some examples of the system or procedure, the action involves the user operating a trigger on the power tool device.

[0008] In some examples of the system or procedure, the action involves the user confirming the illumination of a light-emitting diode (LED), with the execution of the self-test including the illumination of the LED.

[0009] In some examples of the system or method, the self-test comprises a plurality of diagnostic tests of one or more components of the power tool device, wherein the plurality of diagnostic tests includes a diagnostic test of at least one element selected from a group consisting of: a radio module, a transistor, a sensor, or a memory module.

[0010] In some examples, the system or method comprises obtaining power from the external device by means of an integrated diagnostic circuit housed in the power tool device, wherein the integrated diagnostic circuit comprises a processing circuit separate from a processor of the electronic control unit, a diagnostic sensor, and an external communication interface; performing a diagnostic test of the electronic control unit by the integrated diagnostic circuit; and transmitting a test result of the diagnostic test of the electronic control unit by the integrated diagnostic circuit to the external device via the external communication interface.

[0011] In some examples of the system or procedure, the request from the external device is received by the electronic control unit via the battery interface of the power tool, and the results exported to the external device are sent by the electronic control unit via the battery interface of the power tool.

[0012] In some examples of the system or method, the power tool apparatus further comprises: a motor held by the apparatus housing and coupled to the electronic control unit; and a trigger coupled to the electronic control unit, the electronic control unit further being configured to drive the motor in response to the actuation of the trigger.

[0013] In some examples, the system or method includes an integrated diagnostic circuit housed within the device enclosure and comprises: a processing circuit separate from the electronic control unit processor, a diagnostic sensor, and an external communication interface, wherein the integrated diagnostic circuit is configured to: receive power from the external device; perform a diagnostic test of the electronic control circuit through the processing circuit; and send a test result of the diagnostic test of the electronic control unit to the external device through the processing circuit via the external communication interface.

[0014] In some examples, the system or method comprises a motor held by the device housing; and a switching network coupled to the electronic control unit, the electronic control unit being configured to control the switching network to drive the motor, and the integrated diagnostic circuit further comprising: a maintenance switching interface coupling the processing circuit to the switching network, a current sensor configured to detect current at a power supply for the electronic control unit, a variety of diagnostic sensors, and a current input interface configured to receive current from the external device.

[0015] In some examples of the system or procedure, performing the self-test includes the illumination of a light-emitting diode (LED).

[0016] In some examples of the system or procedure, the power tool device is a motorized power tool, such as a drill, impact wrench, crimping tool, or saw.

[0017] Some embodiments of the disclosure specify a power tool device. The power tool device comprises: a device housing; a power tool battery interface coupled to the device housing; an electronic control unit comprising a memory in which firmware is stored; and a processor configured to execute the firmware in order to cause the electronic control unit to operate the electronics of the power tool device.The power tool device also includes an integrated diagnostic circuit housed in the device housing and comprises: a processing circuit separate from the processor of the electronic control unit, a diagnostic sensor and an external communication interface, wherein the integrated diagnostic circuit is configured to receive power from an external device, to perform a diagnostic test of the electronic control unit through the processing circuit and to send a test result of the diagnostic test of the electronic control unit to the external device via the external communication interface through the processing circuit.

[0018] Some embodiments of the disclosure specify a method for performing tool diagnostics. The method comprises operating the electronics of a power tool device by means of an electronic control unit of the power tool device; receiving power from an external device by means of an integrated diagnostic circuit of the power tool device, wherein the integrated diagnostic circuit comprises a processing circuit separate from a processor of the electronic control unit, a diagnostic sensor, and an external communication interface; performing a diagnostic test of the electronic control unit by means of the processing circuit; and transmitting a test result of the diagnostic test of the electronic control unit by means of the processing circuit to the external device via the external communication interface.

[0019] In some examples, the system or method may involve the electronic control unit controlling a switching network to supply power from a power tool battery to a motor to drive the motor, with the integrated diagnostic circuit being offline and not powered by the power tool battery when the switching network is controlled to supply power from the power tool battery to the motor.

[0020] In some examples, the system or method may include control by the electronic control unit of a switching network coupled to the electronic control unit for driving a motor, wherein the integrated diagnostic circuit comprises: a maintenance switching interface coupling the processing circuit to the switching network, a current sensor configured to detect current at a power supply for the electronic control unit, a plurality of diagnostic sensors, and a current input interface configured to receive the current from the external device.

[0021] In some examples, the system or procedure may include a multitude of diagnostic sensors that include at least one of the following: a current control sensor, a pressure sensor, an inductive position sensor, or an inertial measurement sensor.

[0022] In some examples of the system or procedure, the power tool device is a motorized power tool, such as a drill, impact wrench, crimping tool, or saw. Brief description of the drawings

[0023] The accompanying drawings, which are included in and form part of this description, illustrate embodiments of the disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the embodiments. Fig. Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a power tool according to some examples. Fig. Figure 2 is a schematic representation of a communication system according to some examples. Fig. Figure 3A shows a block diagram of an electric tool control system according to some examples. Fig. Figure 3B shows a block diagram of a user device according to some examples. Fig. Figure 4 shows a flowchart of a process for performing a tool diagnosis according to some examples. Fig. Figure 5 is a block diagram of a tool control system and a diagnostic system according to some examples. Fig. Figure 6 shows another flowchart of a process for performing a tool diagnostic according to some examples. Detailed description

[0024] As described above, power tools can include various electrical components, each responsible for performing one or more functions. By gathering information about the performance of different electronic components within a power tool, faults can be classified, future faults predicted, and maintenance planned to maintain or improve the performance of the electronic components.

[0025] Power tools can develop faults, malfunctions, or other issues over time during operation. Partly due to the complexity of modern power tool designs, it can be difficult to pinpoint the causes of these faults, malfunctions, or other issues. The system, tool design, and procedure features described here enable a service technician to diagnose a fault, malfunction, or other issue in a power tool more quickly and accurately on-site.Instead of simply determining that a control system or circuit board is malfunctioning, a service technician can use the systems, devices, and procedures described here to identify specific electronic components or features of the power tool, control system, or circuit board that may be experiencing problems. This more detailed information can be used, for example, to improve future designs, repair a currently malfunctioning power tool, and / or assess warranty claims.

[0026] Some of the embodiments described herein provide improved systems and methods for performing tool diagnostics. For example, some embodiments of the disclosure provide a power tool device that can perform self-tests requested by a user device. For example, a control unit in a power tool can receive a request from the user device to perform a specific self-test. The control unit can then execute firmware to perform the requested self-test and deliver the results to the user device.

[0027] Furthermore, some embodiments of the disclosure provide a diagnostic system in a tool housing of a power tool device, which is independent and isolated from a (main) tool control system of the power tool device. The diagnostic system can provide additional diagnostic test functions to complement self-tests of the tool control system, including performing diagnostic tests of a faulty control unit of the (main) tool control system, and can be selectively powered by an independent power source (thereby not affecting the battery life of the power tool).

[0028] Fig. Figure 1 shows a perspective view of an electric tool device 100. In Fig. Figure 1 shows the power tool device 100 as a motorized power tool comprising a main body 102, a trigger 105, a light-emitting diode (LED) 110, a data port 115, an adapter 120, a battery 125, and a battery interface 127. As shown, the battery interface 127 accommodates the adapter 120 and is electromechanically coupled to it, the adapter 120 itself having another battery interface 128 that accommodates the battery 125 and is electromechanically coupled to it. When the adapter 120 is not coupled to the battery interface 127, the battery 125 can be electromechanically coupled to the battery interface 127. Thus, the battery 125 can be coupled directly to the main body 102 or indirectly to the main body 102 via the adapter 120.In some examples, the data port 115 may include a USB port, a micro-USB port, an RS-232 port, a proprietary port, another suitable power and / or data port, or a combination thereof. In some examples of the power tool device 100, the battery 125 is not present, for example, when an external device is connected to the main body 102 and supplies power via the adapter 120 or the data port 115. In some examples, the power tool device 100 includes both the data port 115 and the adapter 120 (as shown), while in other examples, the power tool device includes either the data port 115 or the adapter 120.

[0029] In general, the power tool adapter 120, the data port 115, or both create a communication path between the power tool device 100 and an external device (see, for example, the user device 205 from Fig. 2) In some examples, the power tool adapter 120 is coupled to an external device, and the power tool device 100 is communicatively coupled to the external device via the power tool adapter 120. In some examples, the data port 115 is coupled to an external device, and the power tool device 100 is communicatively coupled to the external device via the data port 115.

[0030] As explained below, the power tool device 100 can be coupled to the external device via the adapter 120 and / or the data port 115 (see, for example, the user device 205 from Fig. 2) to export information from the power tool device 100 and / or to import information into the power tool device 100. For example, the power tool device 100 can retrieve tool diagnostic data, self-test results, mode information, drive device information, and similar data and export them to the external device. The power tool device 100 can also import instructions from the external device, such as instructions to trigger a self-test or a diagnostic test.

[0031] As shown, the power tool device 100 is a motorized power tool. That is, the power tool device 100 includes a motor within the main body 102, which is selectively powered by current from the power tool battery 125. In some examples, the power tool device 100 is a different type of motorized power tool. Each type of motorized power tool can include a moving component and an actuator (for example, a motor) that can move the moving component (for example, shift, rotate, reciprocate, oscillate, etc.) to perform a function on a workpiece.For example, a motorized power tool could be a drill (for instance, with a chuck to hold drill bits and driver bits), an impact wrench, crimping pliers, scissors, a reciprocating saw, a circular saw, a pump, a blower, or the like. In other examples, the power tool device 100 is a non-motorized power tool. Any non-motorized power tool may lack a motor, a moving part, etc., and therefore be unable to perform a function on a workpiece. For example, a non-motorized power tool could be a radio, a light, a speaker, a power supply (for instance, a portable power supply), or the like. Although the power tool device 100 is in . Fig. While 1 is represented as a specific type of power tool, it can be implemented as various types of power tools, including motorized or non-motorized power tools. As used here, a “power tool device” can include a (motorized or non-motorized) power tool, a power tool battery, a power tool charger, or a combination thereof.

[0032] Fig. Figure 2 shows a schematic diagram of the Communication System 200 according to some configurations. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the communication system 200 can comprise the power tool device 100, a user device 205, a server 210, and a network 215. In the example from Fig. Figure 2 shows that the power tool adapter 120 is physically (or electromechanically) coupled to the power tool device 100 and the power tool battery 125. The power tool adapter 120 is also connected to the user device 205 via a communication link 220. Thus, the power tool device 100 is shown as being communicatively coupled to the user device 205 via the adapter 120 and the communication link 220. Additionally or alternatively, the power tool device 100 can also be communicatively coupled to the user device 205 via the data port 115 and a communication link 225. The communication links 220 and 225 can be wired connections or cables, such as a USB cable, a micro-USB cable, an RS-232 cable, a proprietary cable, or the like.

[0033] As above in relation to Fig. In example 1, the power tool device 100 is represented as a specific type of motorized power tool (a rotary hammer), but in other examples the power tool device is another type of power tool, a power tool battery or a power tool charger, which may be coupled to a user device 205 in a similar manner via a battery interface and the adapter 120 or via a data port 115 of the power tool device.

[0034] The user device 205 can be, for example, a laptop computer, a tablet computer, a smartphone, a mobile phone, or any other electronic device capable of communicating with the power tool device 100 to provide a user interface via the adapter 120 and / or the data port 115. In some examples, the user device 205 includes a communication interface compatible with the power tool adapter 120. In some examples, the user device 205 includes a communication interface compatible with the data port 115. Specifically, the communication interface of the user device 205 can include connection ports for communication via a USB port, a micro-USB port, an RS-232 port, another suitable power and / or data port, a wireless communication module (for example, a Bluetooth® module), or a combination thereof.The user device 205 therefore grants a user access to data relating to the power tool device(s) 100 (for example, diagnostic information) and provides a user interface through which the user can interact with an electronic control unit and / or an integrated diagnostic circuit of the power tool device 100, as described in more detail here.

[0035] Fig. Figure 3A shows a block diagram 300 of the power tool device 100 according to some examples. In these examples, the power tool device 100 includes a tool control system 302. The tool control system 302 can include the trigger 105 and a trigger switch 304 corresponding to the trigger 105. The tool control system 302 can also include a control unit 308, a user interface 310, one or more sensors 312, one or more indicators 314 (such as LEDs 110), a current input unit 316, and a battery interface 318. One or more of the components of the tool control system 302 can be mounted on one or more corresponding printed circuit boards (for example, a printed circuit board (PCB)) or otherwise coupled to and interconnected with them.

[0036] The trigger switch 304 can supply a position of the trigger 105 to the control unit 308. For example, the trigger switch 304 can be a potentiometer, a Hall effect sensor, an inductive sensor, or the like, or include one such sensor configured to indicate a position of the trigger 105. The one or more sensors 312 can include a current control sensor, a pressure sensor, an inductive sensor, and / or an inertial measurement sensor. The one or more sensors 312 can detect a tool characteristic and output a value indicating the tool characteristic to the control unit 308. In some examples, the trigger switch can also be considered a sensor of the one or more sensors 312.

[0037] The user interface 310 can include one or more mode buttons, dials, selector switches, or the like, which can be operated to receive user input and provide an indication of the user input to the control unit 308. The indicators 314 can include one or more speakers, lights, or tactile feedback devices. The control unit 308 can control the indicators 314 to provide information to a user. For example, the in Fig. 1-2 LED 110 shown is an example of the indicator 314.

[0038] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 3A, the control unit 308 can comprise a processing unit 320 with a control unit 322, an arithmetic logic unit 324, and registers 326. The control unit 308 can also include input units 334 and output units 336 for communicating with other elements of the tool control system 302.

[0039] Memory 328 can comprise a solid-state memory (ROM), random-access memory (RAM), other non-transient computer-readable media, or a combination thereof. Memory 328 can comprise a program memory 330 and a data memory 332. For example, memory 328 can store instructions (for instance, as part of program memory 330) that are executed by the processing unit 320 to implement the functionality of the power tool device 100 described herein. In some examples, the instructions can include firmware, including self-test firmware. When executed, the self-test firmware can cause the control unit 308 to perform one or more self-tests, as described in more detail below. Memory 328 can also store tool information (for example, as part of data memory 332).As described here, tool information can include a diagnostic history, diagnostic test data, tool usage data, maintenance data, mode information, drive device information, and the like. The program memory 330 and the data memory 332 can be specific to the power tool device 100.

[0040] The processing unit 320 can be configured to communicate with the memory 328 to store and retrieve stored data. The processing unit 320 can also be configured to receive instructions and data from the memory 328 and, among other things, to execute those instructions. In some examples, the control unit 308 can execute one or more of the procedures and / or self-tests described herein by having the processing unit 320 execute the instructions. The processing unit 320 can be, for example, a microprocessor, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or another suitable electronic device.

[0041] The battery interface 318 includes electrical connections (for example, of the battery interface 127) for connection to the adapter 120 and the power tool battery 125, depending on which one is connected to the power tool device 100 at any given time. Power for the tool control system 302 and for the power tool device 100 can be received via the battery interface 318. The power received via the battery interface 318 can be received and processed by the power input unit 316. The processed power can be supplied to the control unit 308 and other components of the tool control system 302.

[0042] The electronic components 338 can vary depending on the type of power tool device 100. For example, the electronic components 338 may include a switching circuit and a motor. The switching circuit may include one or more current switching elements (for example, field-effect transistors (FETs), bipolar junction transistors (BJTs), or the like), which may be arranged as a switching bridge. The control unit 308 can control the switching device to supply current from the power tool battery 125 to the motor to drive the motor. The motor may be a brushless permanent magnet motor, a brushed motor, or another type of motor. In other examples of the power tool device (for example, a radio or a work light), the electronic components may include a speaker or a light. The light may be a work light that illuminates when the trigger 105 of the power tool device 100 is actuated.The loudspeaker can be a radio loudspeaker controlled by the control unit 308 to output audio (for example, a radio broadcast, recorded audio data, or music stored on a computer-readable medium, etc.). Additionally, the electronic components 338 can include a wireless communication module (for example, a Bluetooth radio module, a Wi-Fi radio module, a Zigbee radio module, or the like). This wireless communication module enables the control unit 308 to communicate wirelessly with external devices (for example, the user device 205).

[0043] As in relation to Fig. As explained in Figures 1-2, adapter 120 is configured to communicate with the user device 205 via communication link 220. In some examples, communication link 220 is configured to transmit both power and data between the user device 205 and the tool control system 302. In other examples, separate cables and / or communication links may be used to transmit data and power separately between the user device 205 and the tool control system 302.

[0044] Fig. Figure 3B shows a block diagram of an example of the user device 205, which is part of the communication system 200. Fig. 2 is included according to some configurations. The user device 205 can be a computing device and can include a smartphone, desktop computer, terminal device, workstation, laptop computer, tablet computer, smartwatch or other portable device, smart TV, whiteboard, or the like. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 3B, the user device 205 comprises an electronic processor 340 (for example, a microprocessor, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or another suitable electronic device), a memory 342 (for example, a non-transitory, computer-readable medium), a communication interface 344, and a human-machine interface 352. The electronic processor 340, the memory 342, the communication interface 344, and the human-machine interface (HMI) 352 communicate wirelessly via one or more communication lines or buses, or a combination thereof. It is understood that the user device 205 may include additional components not shown in Figure 3B. Fig. 3B, and can perform additional functions not described here. For example, in some embodiments, the functions described here, which are performed by the user device 205, may be distributed across servers or devices (including as part of services offered via a cloud service) and performed by one or more tool control systems, or a combination thereof.

[0045] The communication interface 344 enables the user device 205 to communicate with devices outside the user device 205. For example, as shown in Fig. 2, Fig. 3A and Fig. Figure 3B shows the user device 205 communicating with the tool control system 302, the power tool adapter 120, the power tool device 100, the server 210, or a combination thereof, via the communication interface 344. The communication interface 344 can have a port for establishing a wired connection (for example, the wired communication link 225 via the data port 115, communication link 220 from Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 and / or a wired connection to the network 215 or server 210), a transceiver for establishing a wireless connection (for example, via one or more communication networks, such as the Internet, a local network, a wide area network, and the like) or a combination thereof.

[0046] The electronic processor 340 is configured to access and execute computer-readable instructions (“software”) stored in memory 342. The software may include firmware, one or more applications, program data, filters, rules, one or more program modules, and other executable instructions. For example, the software may include instructions and associated data for performing a self-test, including the procedures described herein.

[0047] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 3B, the memory 342 can store self-test instructions 346 (here also referred to as "instructions 346") that can be executed by the electronic processor 340. As described in more detail below, the electronic processor 340 can execute the self-test instructions 346 to communicate with the power tool device 100, to instruct or command the power tool device 100 to perform one or more self-tests, and / or to retrieve tool diagnostic information. As also shown in Figure 3B, the electronic processor 340 can also execute the self-test instructions 346 to communicate with the power tool device 100 to instruct or command it to perform one or more self-tests, and / or to retrieve tool diagnostic information. Fig. As shown in Figure 3B, memory 342 can also store tool information 348. The tool information 348 stored in memory 342 can include tool information received (or otherwise retrieved) from one or more of the power tool devices 100, for example, via the power tool adapter 120 or the data port 115, as described in more detail here. In some configurations, the electronic processor 340 can execute instructions 346 to generate and provide a graphical user interface (“GUI”) that includes the tool information 348, as described in more detail here.

[0048] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 3B, in some configurations the user device 205 can include the HMI 352 for interacting with a user. The HMI 352 can include one or more input devices, one or more output devices, or a combination thereof. Accordingly, in some configurations the HMI 352 enables a user to interact with the user device 205 (for example, to provide input to the user device 205 and to receive output from the user device 205). For example, the HMI 352 can include a keyboard, a cursor control device (for example, a mouse), a touchscreen, a scroll ball, a mechanical button, a display device (for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD)), a printer, a loudspeaker, a microphone, another type of input device, another type of output device, or a combination thereof. As shown in Figure 3B, the user device 205 can include one or more input devices, one or more output devices, or a combination thereof. Fig. As shown in Figure 3B, the HMI 352 includes a display device 350 in some configurations. The display device 450 can be contained in the same housing as the user device 205 or communicate with the user device 205 via one or more wired or wireless connections. For example, in some configurations, the display device 350 is a touchscreen included in a laptop or tablet computer. In other configurations, the display device 350 is a monitor, television, or projector connected via one or more cables to an end device, desktop computer, or the like.

[0049] A user can use the user device 205 to interact with the power tool device 100 via a connection provided by the power tool adapter 120 or data port 115. For example, a user can use the user device 205 to diagnose or identify faulty tool electronics based on the execution of the self-test instructions 346.

[0050] Although the user device 205 is primarily described in relation to a power tool device 100, in some examples the user device 205 can interact with a variety of power tool devices similar to the power tool device 100 in a similar manner to that described here in relation to the power tool device 100, although each of the variety of power tool devices can be a different type of power tool device (for example, power tool, power tool battery, battery charger, etc.).

[0051] Over time, as power tool devices are used by users in practical applications, they may develop faults, malfunctions, or other issues. Partly due to the complexity of modern power tool devices, it can be difficult to determine the causes of such faults, malfunctions, or other issues. Features of the systems, power tool devices, and processes described herein, including a process described below, are outlined below. Fig. 4. These features enable a device and a person (for example, a maintenance technician) to diagnose a fault, malfunction, or failure of the power tool device 100 more quickly and accurately during practical use. For example, using the systems, devices, and procedures described herein, instead of simply determining that a control system or a corresponding circuit board is faulty, a maintenance technician can identify specific electronic components or features of the power tool device 100, the control system 302, or the corresponding circuit board that may be experiencing problems. This more detailed information can be used, for example, to improve future designs, to repair a currently faulty power tool device, and / or to evaluate warranty claims.

[0052] Fig. Figure 4 shows a flowchart of a process 400 for performing tool diagnostics on one or more of the power tool devices 100, which can be implemented using any of the systems described here. In some embodiments, however, the process 400 is implemented by a different system that includes additional components, fewer components, alternative components, etc. In some special cases, the process 400 can be implemented using a power tool device 100. Additionally, the blocks of the process 400 are shown in a specific sequence; however, in some embodiments, one or more of the blocks can be executed partially or completely in parallel, in a different order than shown. Fig. 4 shown, which can be carried out or skipped. For illustrative purposes, process 400 is essentially described as being carried out by the power tool device 100 in conjunction with the communication system 200 in Fig. 2 is implemented as described. However, in other embodiments, other devices or components of the communication system 200 or other components or devices of other systems may implement or be used in the process 400.

[0053] In Block 405, a power tool device can receive a request from an external device to perform a self-test. For example, the power tool device 100 can receive a request from the user device 205 to perform the self-test. Specifically, an electronic control unit (for example, the control unit 308) of the power tool device 100 can receive the request. In some examples, the request can be received via a power tool battery interface (for example, the battery interface 318 of the tool control system 302). For example, the battery interface 318 can include one or more ports that receive the request from the user device 205 via the adapter 120 coupled to the battery interface 318.In another example, the control unit 308 can receive the request from the user device 205 via the data port 115 (for example, via one or more pins of the data port 115). The self-test can include one or more diagnostic tests of one or more components of the power tool device. The request can specify, for example, via test indicators, which of the one or more diagnostic tests is to be performed.

[0054] In block 410, operation 400 can include executing firmware of the power tool device to perform the self-test. Specifically, the electronic control unit (for example, control unit 308) can execute firmware of the power tool device 100 in response to receiving the request in block 405. The firmware can activate one or more functions of the power tool to perform one or more tasks associated with the requested self-test. For example, control unit 308, as shown in Fig. Figure 3A shows the execution of firmware stored in memory 328 as part of program memory 330 to perform the self-test, which, as mentioned, may include one or more diagnostic tests. The execution of the firmware may involve one or more of the electronic components 338, the control unit 308, the user interface 310, the sensors 312, the trigger 304, and / or the indicators 314 performing one or more tasks to execute the self-test.

[0055] For example, as described above, the electronic components 338 of the power tool device 100 may include one or more Bluetooth radio modules, a switching network, a motor, a speaker, a light, and / or other components. The control unit 308, which executes the firmware, can perform diagnostic tests on one or more of these components and / or on other components of the power tool device 100. To perform the self-test, the control unit 308 may, for example: communicate with the Bluetooth radio module (e.g., send a message and await or receive a response) to determine whether the Bluetooth radio module is operating correctly (e.g., without malfunction); communicate wirelessly with a wireless device connected via the Bluetooth radio module (e.g., send a message to the wireless device and await or receive a response) to determinewhether the Bluetooth radio module is functioning correctly; store and retrieve sample or test data in memory 328 to determine whether memory 328 is functioning correctly; store and retrieve sample or test data in a removable storage drive (e.g., a USB or flash drive) coupled to the tool control system 302 to determine whether the removable storage drive is functioning correctly; receive and analyze sensor data from one or more of the sensors 312 (e.g., a current sensor, temperature sensor, inductance sensor, inertial measurement unit (IMU), voltage sensor, pressure sensors, etc.) to confirm that the sensors 312 are outputting data within an expected range, and to deduce from this,that the sensors are functioning properly; control one or more of the electronic components 338 and (for example, with the sensors 312) monitor a change in current or other electrical properties to determine whether the change is within an expected range, and deduce from this that the one or more electronic components 338 are functioning properly; obtain and analyze sensor data from a current sensor of the sensors 312 to determine whether the current to the control unit 308, while the power tool device 100 is idling, is within an expected range, and deduce from this that the sensors are functioning properly; and / or obtain sensor data from a pressure sensor of the sensors 312, which monitors the pressure in a hydraulic system (for example, in a line or a tank), and determine whether the pressure sensor outputs data within an expected range, and deduce from this,that the pressure sensor and / or the hydraulic system are functioning correctly. In some examples, the self-test includes a diagnostic test of current switching elements (for example, field-effect transistors (FETs) of a switching network of electronic components 338 that drives a motor of electronic components 338). For example, the control unit 308 executes the firmware to control one or more of the current switching elements and monitors (for example, via a current sensor of sensors 312) whether the resulting current consumption indicates a malfunction or fault (for example, a short circuit) in the current switching elements. In some examples, the self-test includes one or more other or additional diagnostic tests for the control system 302 and / or the power tool device 100.

[0056] In some examples, the external device (for example, the User Device 205) that sent the self-test request in block 405 may issue an additional request during firmware execution. This additional request may be for an action to be performed by a user while the self-test is running. For example, the request may be for the user to pull a trigger on the power tool and / or operate another actuating element (for example, a button, lever, switch, knob, etc.) on the power tool. In another example, the user may be required to acknowledge or describe the illumination of one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs) on the power tool, an audible beep or tone from an indicator 314, or any other human-perceived tool action.The request can be displayed on the display device(s) 350 (for example as text and / or graphics) and / or output via a loudspeaker of the HMI 352 (for example as spoken instructions).

[0057] In block 415, operation 400 can include recording the results of the self-test. Specifically, the electronic control unit (ECU) running the firmware can record the results. For example, the ECU 308 can store the results (also referred to as result data) of the self-test in memory 328 as part of data memory 332. The results can vary depending on the specific self-test. For example, the result data can include sensor data recorded by sensors 312, such as sensor data from a current control sensor, a current sensor, a voltage sensor, a temperature sensor, a pressure sensor, an inductive sensor, and / or an inertial measurement sensor of sensors 312. Additionally or alternatively, the ECU 308 can analyze the sensor data (or a portion thereof) obtained during the self-test and store the analysis results as a test result.For example, the 508 diagnostic control unit can compare the sensor data against one or more threshold values ​​to determine whether the sensor data indicates a problem or is within an acceptable range, and store the results of the comparison, alone or together with the underlying sensor data, as a test result. Thus, the result data includes the underlying (raw) sensor data obtained during the self-test and / or may include whether the recorded data reached, exceeded, and / or did not reach a specific range or threshold. Accordingly, the result data may include, for example, a binary indication (e.g., pass or fail) for each subsystem or component tested during the self-test, or an indication of each subsystem or component that failed (or passed).For example, the result data may indicate that one or more current switching elements of a switching network of the electronic components 338 have a short circuit, that a flash drive is not functioning properly, that the current to the control unit 308 is low (for example, when the power tool device 100 is idle), that an LED of the indicators 314 is not lit, that a radio of the electronic components 338 is not functioning properly (for example, replies to messages from the control unit 308 to or via the radio were not received within a certain time window), and the like.

[0058] In block 420, operation 400 can export the results to an external device. In particular, the electronic control unit can export the results to the external device that requested the self-test. For example, the control unit 308 can export the results (e.g., the result data) to the communication interface 344 of the user device 205 via adapter 120 and communication link 220 or via data port 115 and communication link 225.

[0059] In some examples, the user device 205 can save the results, display the results on the display device(s) 350, and / or export the results to another device (for example, the server 210 via the network 215). In some examples, the user device 205 adds additional information to the results to provide modified results. For example, if the user device 205 issues an additional request to the user and requests a user response from the user via the HMI 352, the user device 205 can record this user response. The user device 205 can then add this user response as additional information to the results.For example, if the user device 205 issues an additional request to the user to confirm that a light has illuminated or another tool action has occurred as part of a diagnostic test, the user response can be included as part of the diagnostic test results. The user device 205 can store these modified results, display the modified results on the display device(s) 350, and / or export the modified results to another device (for example, the server 210 via the network 215).

[0060] Fig. Figure 5 shows a block diagram 500 of the power tool device 100 according to some examples. In these examples, the power tool device 100 comprises a tool control system 302 and a diagnostic system 502. The tool control system 302 and its associated components in Fig. 5 are similar to the tool control system 302, which was mentioned above in relation to Fig. 3A was shown and described. Although in Fig. Not shown in Figure 5, an adapter (for example, adapter 120) can be connected between the battery 125 and the battery interface 318 to enable communication between a user device and an external device (such as the user device 205 mentioned above in relation to Fig. 2, 3A-3B and 4) to enable. Thus, the in Fig. 5 implemented power tool device 100 also the process 400 from Fig. 4. Execute.

[0061] In the example from Fig. The power tool device 100 also includes the diagnostic system 502, which is connected to the tool control system 302, and comprises a switching network 510 and a motor 512 as electronic components 338. In some examples of the power tool device 100, other electronic components (for example, for non-motorized power tools) are provided, such as one or more lights, display devices, loudspeakers, and the like. In some embodiments, the diagnostic system 502 can be implemented as an integrated diagnostic circuit within a power tool device (for example, the power tool device 100). For example, the diagnostic system 502 can be provided on a circuit board (for example, a printed circuit board) that is separated from a tool housing of the power tool device 100 (in the example, made of...). Fig. 1, for example, is held and housed within the main body 102). Both the tool control system 302 and the diagnostic system 502 can be held and housed within a tool housing of the power tool device 100. In some examples, the tool control system 302 and the diagnostic system 502 can be provided on separate circuit boards within the tool housing.

[0062] The diagnostic system 502 includes a maintenance switching interface 504, an external communication interface 506, a diagnostic control unit 508, one or more diagnostic sensors 514, a current sensor 516, a current input unit 518, a current input interface 538 and a current maintenance port 540.

[0063] The diagnostic system 502 can be powered independently of the tool control system 302. That is, the diagnostic system 502 cannot receive power from the battery interface 318 or the battery 125; rather, the diagnostic system 502 can receive power to operate the diagnostic control unit 508 and other components of the diagnostic system 502 via the maintenance power connection 540. Thus, the diagnostic system 502 can remain isolated, offline, and / or without power during normal tool operation (for example, when the switching network 510 is controlled by the tool control system 302 to drive the motor 512 by supplying power from the battery 125). Furthermore, the diagnostic system 502 can be selectively powered for performing diagnostic tests, as explained below.

[0064] The current received via the maintenance power connection 540 can be received by the current input interface 538 (e.g., terminals) and processed by the current input unit 518. The processed current can be supplied to the diagnostic control unit 508 and other components of the diagnostic system 502.

[0065] The diagnostic sensors 514 can include one or more temperature sensors, one or more current sensors, one or more voltage sensors, one or more pressure sensors, one or more inertial measurement units (IMUs), one or more vibration sensors, one or more magnetic field sensors, one or more inductance sensors, and / or one or more additional sensors for monitoring features and components of the power tool device 100, including features and components of the tool control system 302, the switching network 510, and the motor 512. The current sensor 516 can also include one or more current sensors and / or one or more voltage sensors for monitoring the current at the current input unit 316, which is received via the battery interface 318. Although shown separately, the current sensor 516 can also be referred to and considered as a diagnostic sensor (for example, similar to the diagnostic sensors 514).Sensors 514 and 516 can output sensor data, indicating the properties detected by these respective sensors, to the diagnostic control unit 508.

[0066] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 5, the maintenance switching interface 504 provides a connection or interface to the switching network 510 that is separate from the connection between the tool control system 302 and the switching network 510. This maintenance switching interface 504 can isolate the diagnostic system 502 from the switching network 510 when the diagnostic system is not powered or is offline. The maintenance switching interface 504 can include a switch, such as a field-effect transistor (FET) or other current switching element, to selectively connect and disconnect the diagnostic system 502 from the switching network 510. Additionally, the switch can selectively connect and disconnect the tool control system 302 from the switching network 510.For example, the switch can include a first state in which the switch connects the tool control system 302 to the switching network 510, and a second state in which the switch connects the diagnostic system 502 to the switching network 510. The first state can be when the diagnostic system 502 is offline, and the second state can be when the diagnostic system 502 is online. Additionally, the maintenance switching interface 504 can include one or more current sensors for detecting current through the switching network 510. Although the maintenance switching interface 504 is shown separately from the diagnostic sensors 514, the one or more current sensors of the maintenance switching interface 504 can also be referred to and considered as diagnostic sensors (for example, similar to the diagnostic sensors 514) and output sensor data indicating the current detected by the one or more current sensors to the diagnostic control unit 508.

[0067] The diagnostic control unit 508 of the diagnostic system 502 can be substantially similar to the control unit 308, using the same part numbers plus 200. Thus, the diagnostic control unit 508, as shown, can comprise a processing unit 520 with a control unit 522, an arithmetic logic unit 524, and registers 526. Furthermore, a memory 528 can include a program memory 530 and a data memory 532. The control unit can also include input units 534 and output units 536. The processing unit 520 can be, for example, a microprocessor, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or another suitable electronic device. In some examples, the diagnostic control unit 508 and / or the processing unit 520 can be implemented as a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) with an advanced RISC machine (ARM) core.

[0068] An external device (for example, the user device 205) can be connected to the diagnostic system 502 via the external communication interface 506 and / or the maintenance power connection 540, as shown in Fig. Figure 5 illustrates this. In some examples, the external communication interface 506 and the maintenance power connector 540 can form a combined connector that enables both communication and power transmission between the external device and the diagnostic system 502. For example, as described above in relation to Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 described, the external communication interface 506 and / or the maintenance power connection 540 correspond to the data port 115, which is connected to the communication link 225.

[0069] When power is received via the maintenance switching interface 504, the diagnostic control unit 508 can be powered and switched online and communicate with an external device (for example, the user device 205) via the external communication interface 506. For example, as described below, when the diagnostic system 502 is online and controlling the operation of an electric tool device 100 to perform diagnostic tests, all results and / or operating data collected via one or more of the diagnostic sensors 514 or the current sensor 516 can be exported to the user device 205 via the external communication interface 506.

[0070] As described above, the diagnostic system 502 can receive power from an external device via the maintenance power connection 540. Therefore, the power used to operate the diagnostic system 502 can be separate from the power from the battery 125, which supplies the tool control system 302 and other components of the power tool device 100. Also as described above, the maintenance switching interface 504 can protect the diagnostic system 502 from damage caused by a failure of the tool control system 302 and / or the switching network 510. By providing a separate power supply and isolating it from the switching network 510, the diagnostic system 502 can be partially or completely isolated from the tool control system 302 and other components of the power tool device 100.Therefore, the diagnostic system 502 remains unaffected by a failure of the tool control system 302 (for example, during a power outage), the switching network 510, or any other component of the power tool device 100. Furthermore, the diagnostic system 502 can remain offline or switched off when not in use due to its separate power supply via the maintenance power connector 540 and is not powered by the battery 125. Thus, adding the diagnostic system 502 to the power tool device 100 does not affect the battery 125's service life. Moreover, the diagnostic system 502 is a separate component within the power tool device 100 and does not rely solely on the control unit 308 to perform self-tests, enabling more robust diagnostic testing of the power tool device 100.For example, the diagnostic system 502 can test aspects of the power tool device 100 and the tool control system 302, which includes the control unit 308, to provide test results independently of the control unit 308. Thus, if a malfunction occurs in the control unit 308 that prevents it from performing a self-test or produces inaccurate test results, the diagnostic system 502 can detect such malfunctions and provide the technician with valuable information that would otherwise be unavailable or difficult to obtain.

[0071] Fig. Figure 6 shows a flowchart of a process 600 for performing tool diagnostics on one or more of the power tool devices 100, which can be implemented using any of the systems described herein. In some embodiments, however, the process 600 is implemented by a different system that includes additional components, fewer components, alternative components, etc. In some special cases, the process 600 can be implemented using a power tool device 100. Although the blocks of the process 600 are shown in a specific sequence, in some embodiments one or more of the blocks can be executed partially or completely in parallel, in a different order than shown in Figure 6. Fig. 6 is shown to be carried out or skipped. For illustrative purposes, process 600 is essentially described as being carried out by the power tool device 100 in conjunction with the communication system 200 in Fig. 2 is implemented as described. However, in other embodiments, other devices or components of the communication system 200 or other components or devices of other systems may implement the process 600.

[0072] In block 605, process 600 encompasses the operation of the electronics of a power tool device. For example, an electronic control unit, such as the control unit 308 of the tool control system 302, can be operated as described above with respect to Fig. 3A, Fig. 3B and Fig. 5 describes how the electronic components 338 control operation. As explained above, the electronic components 338 can vary depending on the type of power tool device. In some examples, the electronic components 338 may include a motor, a loudspeaker, a work light, or other electronic components of the power tool device 100. In some examples, with reference to Fig. 5, the operation of the electronics can include the control unit 308, which controls the switching network 510 to supply power from the power tool battery 125 to the motor 512 of the power tool device 100 in order to drive the motor 512.

[0073] In block 610, process 600 comprises an integrated diagnostic circuit of the power tool device that receives power from an external device. For example, with reference to Fig. 5. The diagnostic system 502 (an integrated diagnostic circuit) of the power tool device 100 receives power from the user device 205 (an external device). The integrated diagnostic circuit may include a processing circuit (for example, processing unit 520) separate from the processor of the electronic control unit (for example, processing unit 320), as well as a diagnostic sensor (for example, diagnostic sensors 514) and an external communication interface (for example, external communication interface 506). In some examples, the sensor may be a power control sensor, a pressure sensor, an inductive position sensor (also called a ZMID sensor), an inertial measurement sensor, or the like. The user device 205 may receive the power via the communication link 225 ( Fig. 2) supply to the diagnostic system 502, and the diagnostic system 502 can supply power to the maintenance power connector 540 ( Fig. 5) Received. As described above, the power supply received at the maintenance power connector 540 can be supplied to the diagnostic control unit 508 and other components of the diagnostic system 502 via the power input interface 538 and the power input unit 518. Thus, the diagnostic control unit 508 and the electronic control unit 308 can receive power from two different, isolated power sources. That is, the electronic control unit 308 can receive power from the battery 125 via the battery interface 318, while the diagnostic control unit 508 can receive power from the user device 205 via the maintenance power connector 540.

[0074] When the control unit 508 receives power, the diagnostic control unit 508 can go online (for example, be switched on, activated, started, etc.). For example, the diagnostic control unit 508 (for example, the processing unit 520) can execute instructions from memory 528 (for example, bootloader instructions followed by diagnostic firmware instructions) to begin operation.

[0075] In block 615, operation 600 involves performing a diagnostic test of the electronic control unit using the processing circuit. For example, with reference to Fig. 5. The processing unit 520 of the diagnostic control unit 508 executes firmware instructions that cause the diagnostic control unit 508 to perform a diagnostic test of the electronic control unit 308. In some examples, the diagnostic test may include one or more diagnostic tests of one or more functions of one or more subsystems of the power tool device 100. For example, the diagnostic test may check the functions of a Bluetooth radio module of the electronic components 338, an integrated flash circuit of the electronic components 338 used for external data storage, a transistor (for example, a FET of the switching network 510), a pressure sensor of the sensors 312, the trigger switch 304, a microcontroller unit (for example, of the control unit 308), and / or other components of the power tool device 100.

[0076] In some examples, the diagnostic test of the electronic control unit 308 includes a test of the power supply to the electronic control unit 308. For example, the diagnostic control unit 508 can receive sensor data output by the current sensor 516, indicating the current characteristics at the current input unit 316 (and thus the current received by the control unit 308). In some examples, the diagnostic test is performed while the control unit 308 is in a standby or sleep state (for example, a certain time after the last trigger pull, after which the control unit 308 enters such a state). The control unit 308 cannot perform such a test as a self-test while in a standby or sleep state, as performing this test would cause the control unit 308 to be woken from sleep and brought back online.However, the diagnostic control unit 508, which is an independent component with a separate power supply, can perform this diagnostic test while the control unit 308 is in a standby or sleep state.

[0077] The diagnostic control unit 508 can store the sensor data received from the current sensor 516 (for example, for later output and analysis) and / or determine whether the sensor data indicates that the current received by the control unit 308 is within an acceptable range (for example, within a voltage range, a current range, and / or a power range) by comparing the current characteristics with one or more threshold values ​​that define the range(s). In some examples, the diagnostic control unit 508 can receive sensor data output by one or more of the diagnostic sensors 514 as part of the diagnostic test.For example, one or more diagnostic sensors 514 can monitor (and output sensor data indicating) the current and / or voltage at one or more pins or terminals of an integrated circuit of the control unit 308 or other components of the tool control system 302. This sensor data can, for example, indicate characteristics of control signals that the control unit 308 outputs to the electronic components 338 (for example, the switching network 510), the indicators 314, or other components of the power tool device 100. This sensor data can also, for example, indicate characteristics of signals received by the control unit 308 (for example, from the user interface 310, the sensors 312, or other components of the power tool device 100).As another example, the sensor data can indicate the temperature of a component or area of ​​the power tool device 100, the pressure of a component or area of ​​the power tool device 100, the vibration of a component or area of ​​the power tool device 100, or another property of the power tool device 100.

[0078] In some examples, the diagnostic control unit 508 performs the diagnostic test or a section thereof, while the control unit 308 controls the electronic components 338 using power from the battery 125 (for example, in response to trigger pull 105). In other examples, the diagnostic control unit 508 performs the diagnostic test or a section thereof while the control unit 308 is idle and is not actively controlling the electronic components 338 with power from the battery 125 (for example, while the trigger 105 is released).

[0079] In some examples, the diagnostic control unit 508 performs the diagnostic test in response to receiving a request from an external device (for example, the user device 205). For example, the diagnostic control unit 508 may receive the request via the external communication interface 506 (for example, from the user device 205 via data port 115). In some examples, the external device (for example, the user device 205) that sent the self-test request in block 405 may issue an additional request while the diagnostic test is running. This additional request may be for an action to be performed by a user while the diagnostic test is running.For example, the requirement may be for the user to operate a trigger on the power tool and / or another actuating element (e.g., button, lever, switch, knob, etc.) of the power tool. In another example, the requirement for the user may be to acknowledge or describe the illumination of one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs) on the power tool, an audible beep or tone from an indicator 314, or another tool action perceptible to the human. The requirement may be displayed on the display device(s) 350 (e.g., as text and / or graphics) and / or output via a loudspeaker of the HMI 352 (e.g., as spoken instructions).

[0080] In some examples, the diagnostic control unit 508 can store the sensor data (or part thereof) obtained during the diagnostic test, regardless of whether it originates from the current sensor 516 and / or the diagnostic sensor(s) 514, as a test result. In other examples, the diagnostic control unit 508 can analyze the sensor data (or part thereof) obtained during the diagnostic test, regardless of whether it originates from the current sensor 516 and / or the diagnostic sensor(s) 514, and store the analysis results as a test result. For example, the diagnostic control unit 508 can compare the sensor data against one or more threshold values ​​to determine whether the sensor data indicates a problem or is within an acceptable range, and store the results of the comparison, alone or together with the underlying sensor data, as a test result. The stored test results can also be referred to as test result data.

[0081] In block 620, operation 600 involves sending a test result from the diagnostic test through the processing circuit to an external device via an external communication interface. For example, with reference to Fig. 5 the diagnostic control unit 508 or its processing unit 520 send the test results generated in block 615 to the user device 205 via the external communication interface 506.

[0082] In some examples, the user device 205 can store the test result(s), display the test result(s) on the display device(s) 350, and / or export the test result(s) to another device (for example, the server 210 via the network 215). In some examples, the test result(s) can be used by a maintenance technician to determine when components of a power tool are not functioning as expected and to correlate the results with specific tool faults.

[0083] In some examples, the User Device 205 adds additional information to the results to provide modified outcomes. For instance, if the User Device 205 issues an additional request to the user and requests a user response via the HMI 352, the User Device 205 can record this user response. The User Device 205 can then add this user response as additional information to the results. For example, if the User Device 205 issues an additional request to the user to confirm that a light has illuminated or that another tool action has occurred as part of a diagnostic test, the user response can be included as part of the diagnostic test results.The user device 205 can save these modified results, display the modified results on the display device(s) 350 and / or export the modified results to another device (for example, the server 210 via the network 215).

[0084] Accordingly, the various systems and procedures described here can perform diagnostic tests, for example, to test each FET in a switching network that drives a motor, to test each LED in a power tool device, to test a trigger (for example, testing the detection of a trigger pull by a trigger switch and / or a control unit), to test a motor (for example, using current sensors and / or Hall sensors positioned to detect the rotation or position of the motor, to test whether the motor operates in response to a trigger pull), to test the power consumption of various components of the power tool device, and / or to test whether one or more sensors (for example, an IMU) are generating sensor data that are within an expected range, and to deliver the results of the diagnostic tests to a user device.

[0085] It is understood that the application of this disclosure is not limited to the design details and component arrangements set forth in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings. The disclosure may have other embodiments and be practiced or implemented in various ways. It is also understood that the language and terminology used herein are for descriptive purposes only and should not be considered limiting. The use of "comprising," "containing," or "with," and variations thereof, is intended to include the elements listed thereafter and their equivalents, as well as additional elements. Unless otherwise specified or limited, the terms "attached," "connected," "held," and "coupled," and variations thereof, are used in a broad sense and include both direct and indirect attachments, connections, supports, and couplings.Furthermore, “connected” and “coupled” are not limited to physical or mechanical connections or couplings.

[0086] Unless otherwise limited or defined, explanations of specific directions serve only as examples relating to particular embodiments or relevant illustrations. For instance, explanations of "top," "front," or "rear" features are essentially intended only as a description of the orientation of these features relative to a frame of reference of a particular example or illustration. Similarly, for instance, a "top" feature may sometimes be located below a "bottom" feature in some arrangements or embodiments (and so on). Furthermore, references to specific rotations or other movements (for example, counterclockwise rotation) are essentially intended only as a description of the movement relative to a frame of reference of a particular example or illustration.

[0087] In some embodiments, computer-aided implementations of methods according to the disclosure can be implemented as a system, method, device or article of manufacture using standard programming or development techniques for producing software, firmware, hardware or any combination thereof for controlling a processor device (for example, a serial or parallel processor chip, a single or multi-core chip, a microprocessor, a field-programmable gate array, any variety of combinations of a control unit, an arithmetic logic unit and a processor register, etc.), a computer (for example, a processor device functionally coupled with a memory) or any other electronically operated control device to implement the aspects described in detail herein.Accordingly, embodiments of the disclosure may, for example, be implemented as a set of instructions concretely embodied on a non-volatile, computer-readable medium, such that a processor device can implement the instructions based on reading the instructions from the computer-readable medium. Some embodiments of the disclosure may include (or utilize) a control device such as an automation device, a computer with various computer hardware, software, firmware, etc., consistent with the discussion below. Specific examples of a control device may include a processor, a microcontroller, a field-programmable gate array, a programmable logic controller, logic gates, etc.and other typical components known in engineering for implementing suitable functionalities (for example, memory, communication systems, power sources, user interfaces, and other inputs, etc.). Furthermore, functions performed by multiple components can be consolidated and executed by a single component. Likewise, the functions described here as being performed by one component can be distributed among multiple components. In addition, a component described as performing a particular function may also perform additional functions not described here. For example, a device or structure that is “set up” in a certain way is at least set up in that way, but may also be set up in a way not mentioned.

[0088] The term "product" here refers to a computer program accessible by any computer-readable device, a carrier (e.g., non-volatile signals), or media (e.g., non-volatile media). For example, computer-readable media can include magnetic storage devices (e.g., hard disks, floppy disks, magnetic strips, etc.), optical data carriers (e.g., compact discs (CDs), digital versatile discs (DVDs), etc.), smart cards, and flash memory devices (e.g., cards, USB drives, etc.). It is further noted that a carrier wave can be used to transmit computer-readable electronic data, such as when sending and receiving emails or accessing a network like the internet or a local area network (LAN).Experts will recognize that numerous modifications can be made to these configurations without deviating from the scope or concept of the claimed subject matter.

[0089] Certain operations of methods according to the disclosure, or of systems that perform these methods, may be schematically illustrated in the drawings or otherwise discussed herein. Unless otherwise specified or limited, the representation of certain operations in the drawings in a particular spatial sequence does not necessarily require that these operations be performed in a particular sequence corresponding to that spatial sequence. Accordingly, certain operations illustrated in the figures or otherwise disclosed herein may be performed in a different sequence than that expressly illustrated or described, provided that this is appropriate for certain embodiments of the disclosure.Furthermore, in some embodiments certain operations can be performed in parallel, including by special parallel processing devices or separate computing devices set up to work together as part of a large system.

[0090] As used here in the context of computer implementation, the terms "component," "system," "module," etc., unless otherwise specified or limited, are meant to encompass some or all of a computerized system, including hardware, software, a combination of hardware and software, or software in execution. For example, a component may be, but is not limited to, a processor device, an operation performed (or executable) by a processor device, an object, an executable file, an execution string, a computer program, or a computer. For illustration, both an application running on a computer and the computer itself can be a component. One or more components (or a system, a module, etc.)) may be contained in a process or execution chain, may be located on a computer, may be distributed across two or more computers or other devices, or may comprise another component (or system, module, etc.).

[0091] In some embodiments, the devices or systems disclosed herein can be used or installed using methods that embody aspects of the disclosure. Accordingly, the description of certain features, capabilities, or intended purposes of a device or system herein is intended to essentially comprise the disclosure of a method for using such features for the intended purposes, a method for implementing such capabilities, and a method for installing disclosed (or otherwise known) components to support these purposes or capabilities.Similarly, unless otherwise specified or limited, the discussion contained herein of a method for manufacturing or using a particular device or system, including the installation of the device or system, is by its very nature intended to include the disclosure of the features employed and capabilities implemented of such device or system as embodiments of the disclosure.

[0092] Unless otherwise defined or limited, ordinal numbers are used here for the sake of simplicity of reference and are essentially based on the order in which certain components are presented for the relevant part of the disclosure. In this context, for example, designations such as "first," "second," etc., essentially only indicate the order in which the relevant component is introduced for discussion and generally do not denote or require any particular spatial arrangement, functional or structural precedence, or sequence.

[0093] Unless otherwise defined or restricted, directional terms are used here to simplify reference to specific drawings or examples. For instance, references to downward directions (or other directions) or top positions (or other positions) may be used to clarify aspects of a particular example or drawing without requiring a similar orientation or geometry in all installations or configurations.

[0094] Unless otherwise defined or limited herein, the term "and / or" in relation to two or more elements includes both the individual elements and the elements together. For example, a device with "a and / or b" includes a device with a (but not b), a device with b (but not a), and a device with both a and b.

[0095] This discussion is presented to enable a person skilled in the art to manufacture and use embodiments of the disclosure. Various modifications of the illustrated examples will be readily apparent to the person skilled in the art, and the general principles described here can be applied to other examples and applications without deviating from the principles disclosed herein. Thus, embodiments of the disclosure are not intended to be limited to those shown, but rather are to be granted the broadest scope of application compatible with the principles and features disclosed herein and the claims below. The following detailed description is to be read with reference to the drawings, in which identical elements have the same reference numerals in different drawings.The drawings, which are not necessarily to scale, show selected examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the examples given here include many useful alternatives and fall within the scope of the disclosure.

[0096] Various features and advantages of the disclosure are set forth in the following claims. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] US 63 / 675,084

[0001]

Claims

[1] Method for performing a tool diagnosis, the method comprising: Receiving a request to perform a self-test by an electronic control unit of a power tool device from an external device; Execution of a firmware update of the power tool device by the electronic control unit in response to the request to perform the self-test; Recording results corresponding to the self-test by the electronic control unit running the firmware; and Exporting the results from the electronic control unit to the external device. [2] Method according to claim 1, wherein the request from the external device is received by the electronic control unit via connections of a power tool battery interface of the power tool device. [3] Method according to claim 1, further comprising requesting an action to be performed by a user during the execution of the self-test via the external device. [4] Method according to claim 3, wherein the action comprises the user operating a trigger of the power tool device. [5] Method according to claim 3, wherein the action comprises the user confirming the illumination of a light-emitting diode (LED), wherein performing the self-test includes illuminating the LED. [6] Method according to claim 1, wherein the self-test comprises a plurality of diagnostic tests of one or more components of the power tool device, wherein the plurality of diagnostic tests comprises a diagnostic test of at least one element selected from a group consisting of: a radio module, a transistor, a sensor or a memory module. [7] The method of claim 1, further comprising: Receiving power from the external device through an integrated diagnostic circuit housed in the power tool device, the integrated diagnostic circuit comprising a processing circuit separate from a processor of the electronic control unit, a diagnostic sensor and an external communication interface; Performing a diagnostic test of the electronic control unit using the integrated diagnostic circuit; and Sending a test result from the diagnostic test of the electronic control unit by the integrated diagnostic circuit to the external device via the external communication interface. [8] Power tool device, the power tool device comprising: a device housing; a power tool battery interface coupled to the device housing; an electronic control unit comprising a memory that stores firmware and a processor configured to execute the firmware in order to cause the electronic control unit to: to receive a request from an external device to perform a self-test; to perform the self-test in response to the request; to record results according to the self-test; and to export the results to the external device. [9] Power tool device according to claim 8, wherein the request from the external device is received by the electronic control unit via the power tool battery interface and the results exported to the external device are sent by the electronic control unit via the power tool battery interface. [10] Power tool device according to claim 8, wherein the power tool device further comprises: a motor that is held by the device housing and coupled to the electronic control unit; and a trigger coupled to the electronic control unit, the electronic control unit being further configured to drive the motor in response to the actuation of the trigger. [11] Power tool device according to claim 8, further comprising: an integrated diagnostic circuit housed in the device enclosure and comprising: a processing circuit separate from the processor of the electronic control unit, a diagnostic sensor and an external communication interface, wherein the integrated diagnostic circuit is configured to: to receive power from the external device; to perform a diagnostic test of the electronic control unit by the processing circuit; and to send a test result of the diagnostic test of the electronic control unit to the external device via the processing circuit and the external communication interface. [12] Power tool device according to claim 11, further comprising: a motor held by the device housing; and a switching network coupled to the electronic control unit, wherein the electronic control unit is configured to control the switching network in order to drive the motor, the integrated diagnostic circuit further includes: a maintenance switching interface that couples the processing circuit with the switching network, a current sensor designed to detect the current at a power supply for the electronic control unit, a variety of diagnostic sensors and a power input interface designed to receive power from the external device. [13] Power tool device according to claim 8, wherein performing the self-test includes illuminating a light-emitting diode (LED). [14] Power tool device according to claim 8, wherein the power tool device is a motorized power tool which is a drill driver, an impact driver, a crimping tool or a saw. [15] Power tool device, the power tool device comprising: a device housing; a power tool battery interface that is coupled to the device housing; an electronic control unit comprising a memory in which firmware is stored and a processor configured to execute the firmware in order to cause the electronic control unit to: to operate the electronics of the power tool device; an integrated diagnostic circuit housed in the device enclosure and comprising: a processing circuit separate from the processor of the electronic control unit, a diagnostic sensor and an external communication interface, wherein the integrated diagnostic circuit is configured to: To receive power from an external device; to perform a diagnostic test of the electronic control unit by the processing circuit; and to send a test result of the diagnostic test of the electronic control unit to the external device via the processing circuit and the external communication interface. [16] Power tool device according to claim 15, where the electronics include a motor and the electronic control unit is set up to operate the electronics of the power tool device: to control a switching network to supply power from a power tool battery coupled to the power tool battery interface to the motor in order to drive the motor; wherein The integrated diagnostic circuit is offline and not powered by the power tool battery when the switching network is controlled to supply power from the power tool battery to the motor, and when the power tool battery is coupled to the power tool's battery interface. [17] Power tool device according to claim 15, further comprising: a motor that is held by the device housing; and a switching network coupled to the electronic control unit, wherein the electronic control unit is configured to control the switching network in order to drive the motor, the integrated diagnostic circuit further includes: a maintenance switching interface that couples the processing circuit with the switching network, a current sensor designed to detect the current at a power supply for the electronic control unit, a variety of diagnostic sensors and a power input interface designed to receive power from the external device. [18] Power tool device according to claim 17, wherein the plurality of diagnostic sensors comprises at least one of the following sensors: a power control sensor, a pressure sensor, an inductive position sensor or an inertial measurement sensor. [19] Power tool device according to claim 15, wherein the power tool device is a motorized power tool which is a drill driver, an impact driver, a crimping tool or a saw.

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