hedge shears

Abstract

A power-driven outdoor tool and methods for operating power-driven outdoor tools are provided. A power-driven outdoor tool comprises a first blade extending from a first end to a second end, a second blade extending from the first end to the second end, a first connecting rod connected at the first end to the first blade and having a first length, a second connecting rod connected at the first end to the second blade and having a second length different from the first length, and a crankshaft connected to the first and second connecting rods. The crankshaft is designed to transmit a reciprocating motion to the first blade and / or the second blade in a first and a second direction.The second direction is opposite to the first direction.

Description

Reference to related applications

[0001] This application claims priority over the preliminary US patent application No. 63 / 692,311, filed on September 9, 2024, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference. Area

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to a power-driven outdoor tool and in particular to hedge shears and hedge shears with blade-changing systems. background

[0003] Outdoor tools, such as hedge trimmers, are used for performing outdoor tasks, like trimming hedges. These trimmers have a set of blades that cut objects or materials using a back-and-forth motion. The blades may need to be replaced periodically by the operator. Removing and replacing the blades can be time-consuming and difficult for some users.

[0004] Accordingly, improved outdoor tools, including hedge trimmers, are desirable in the field of technology. In particular, hedge trimmers with improved blade replacement and detection features would be advantageous. Brief description

[0005] Aspects and advantages of the present disclosure are partly set forth in the following description, or may be evident from the description, or can be learned through the practical application of the technique.

[0006] According to one embodiment, a power-driven outdoor tool is provided. The power-driven outdoor tool has a first blade extending from a first end to a second end, a second blade extending from the first end to the second end, a first connecting rod connected at the first end to the first blade and having a first length, a second connecting rod connected at the first end to the second blade and having a second length that differs from the first length, and a crankshaft coupled to the first and second connecting rods. The crankshaft is configured to transmit a reciprocating motion to the first blade, the second blade, or both the first and second blades in a first direction and a second direction. The second direction is opposite to the first direction.

[0007] According to a further embodiment, a method for operating a power-driven outdoor tool is provided. The method comprises providing a housing with a motor and a crankshaft connected to the motor, connecting a blade assembly with a first blade and a second blade to the crankshaft, determining a blade type for the first and second blades, and operating the motor based on the blade type.

[0008] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present disclosure are better understood with reference to the following description and the accompanying claims. The accompanying drawings, which are integrated into and form part of this description, illustrate embodiments of the technology and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the technology. Brief description of the drawings

[0009] A complete and understandable disclosure of the present application, including the best way of manufacturing and using the present systems and methods, which is directed to a person skilled in the art in this field, is set out in the description which refers to the attached figures in which: Fig. 1A is a perspective view of a hedge trimmer according to embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. 1B is a perspective view of another hedge trimmer according to embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. 2 a perspective view of a blade arrangement of the hedge shears according to embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. 3 a perspective view of an arrangement of the hedge shears according to embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. 4A is a partial elevation view of an arrangement of the hedge shears according to embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. 4B an elevation view of the arrangement of the hedge trimmer from Fig. 4A according to embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. 5A is a cross-sectional view of the housing of the hedge trimmer according to embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. 5B a cutaway view of the housing of the hedge trimmer made of Fig. 5A according to embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. 6 a perspective view of a crankshaft of the hedge trimmer according to embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. 7 a detailed view of a blade arrangement of the hedge shears according to embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. 8 a perspective view of a mounting of the blade assembly of Fig. 7 according to embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. 9 a top view of a blade of the blade arrangement 700 of Fig. 7 according to embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. 10A is a perspective view of a blade arrangement in a locked state of the hedge shears according to embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. 10B a perspective view of the blade arrangement from Fig. 10A in an unlocked state of the hedge trimmer according to embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. 10C a top-down view of the blade arrangement from Fig. 10A according to embodiments of the present disclosure is; Fig. 10D a cross-sectional view of the blade arrangement from Fig. 10A according to embodiments of the present disclosure is; Fig. 11A is a schematic diagram of an arrangement of the hedge shears in a locked state according to embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. 11B a schematic diagram of the arrangement of the hedge trimmer made of Fig. 11A in an unlocked state according to embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. 12A is a cross-sectional view of a housing of the hedge trimmer according to embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. 12B a cross-sectional view of the housing of the hedge trimmer made of Fig. 12A from above according to embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. 13 a schematic diagram of a blade arrangement of the hedge shears according to embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. 14 a schematic diagram of a blade arrangement of the hedge shears according to embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. 15 a perspective view of a blade arrangement of the hedge shears according to embodiments of the present disclosure; and Fig. 16 is a perspective interior view of a housing of the hedge trimmer according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 17 is a schematic view of a control system according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 18 is a flowchart of a method for operating a hedge trimmer according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed description

[0010] Reference is now made in detail to embodiments of the present disclosure, one or more examples of which are shown in the drawings. The term "exemplary" is used here to mean "serving as an example, instance, or illustration." Each implementation described herein as "exemplary" is not necessarily to be understood as preferred or advantageous over other implementations. Moreover, each example serves to explain, not to limit, the technology. Indeed, it is apparent to those skilled in the art that modifications and variations can be made to the present technology without departing from the scope or basic concept of the claimed technology. For example, features shown or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to obtain yet another embodiment.Therefore, the present disclosure is intended to cover such modifications and variations as fall within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents. In the detailed description, numerical and letter designations are used to refer to features in the drawings. Identical or similar designations in the drawings and the description are used to refer to identical or similar parts of the disclosure.

[0011] As used herein, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third” may be used interchangeably to distinguish one component from another and are not intended to denote the position or significance of each component. The singular forms “one,” “an,” and “the” encompass plural references unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms “coupled,” “attached,” “attached to,” and the like refer to both direct coupling, attachment, or affixing and indirect coupling, attachment, or affixing via one or more intermediate components or features, unless otherwise specified herein. As used herein, the terms “includes,” “comprehensive,” “including,” “exhibit,” “has,” “with,” or any other variation thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion.For example, a process, procedure, article, or device, each containing a set of features, is not necessarily limited to those features but may also have other features not expressly listed or inherent in that process, procedure, article, or device. Furthermore, "or" refers to an inclusive "or" and not an exclusive "or" unless expressly stated otherwise. For example, a condition A or B is satisfied by any of the following: A is true (or present) and B is false (or not present), A is false (or not present) and B is true (or present), and both A and B are true (or present).

[0012] Terms for approximations such as "about," "generally," "approximately," or "essentially" include values ​​that are up to ten percent above or below the stated value. When used in connection with an angle or direction, such terms include values ​​that are within ten degrees greater or less than the stated angle or direction. For example, the term "generally vertical" includes directions within ten degrees of the vertical in any direction, such as clockwise or counterclockwise.

[0013] Advantages, further benefits, and solutions to problems are described below with regard to specific embodiments. However, these advantages, benefits, solutions to problems, and all features that may lead to an advantage, benefit, or solution occurring or becoming more apparent are not to be construed as a critical, necessary, or essential feature of any or all claims.

[0014] In general, a power-driven outdoor tool according to one or more embodiments described herein may generally have improved blade-changing capabilities. Additionally, one or more embodiments of the power-driven outdoor tool described herein may recognize a blade type of one or more blades coupled to the power-driven outdoor tool.

[0015] Referring to the drawings, shows Fig. 1A a power-driven outdoor tool according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. More precisely, Fig. Figure 1A shows a hedge trimmer 100 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The hedge trimmer 100 generally includes at least one reciprocating cutting tool. For example, the hedge trimmer 100 may have a first blade 102 and a second blade 104 extending from a first end 121 to a second end 122 opposite the first end 121. The first blade 102 and the second blade 104 have "teeth" which, when these components move back and forth, cause the blades to cut into material, such as hedge branches. In other embodiments, only the first blade 102 or the second blade 104 is configured to move back and forth. For example, the first blade 102 or the second blade 104 may remain stationary while the other first blade or second blade 104 moves back and forth to cut into the material.

[0016] The hedge trimmer 100 may further comprise a housing 106. The first blade 102 and the second blade 104 may extend from the housing 106. Furthermore, the first blade 102 and the second blade 104 of the hedge trimmer 100 may be coupled to a column 120 extending from the housing 106 to support the first blade 102 and the second blade 104. The hedge trimmer 100 may have a handle 108. In some embodiments, the hedge trimmer 100 may also have a second handle 110. The hedge trimmer 100 may further comprise a blade tip guard 112. The blade tip guard 112 can be coupled to a section of the column 120 adjacent to the second end 122 and designed to prevent the blades furthest from the housing 106 from coming into contact with objects (e.g., fences, cladding, etc.). The hedge trimmer 100 can also have a blade guard 114.The blade guard 114 can be designed to prevent flying debris from hitting the operator.

[0017] The hedge trimmer 100 can also have a drive device (not shown), such as an electric motor or an internal combustion engine, which drives a crankshaft (not shown). The crankshaft can engage with the first blade 102 and the second blade 104, so that the rotation of the crankshaft causes the first blade 102 and the second blade 104 to move back and forth. The drive device can be powered, for example, by a rechargeable energy source such as a battery 116, a fuel source such as gasoline, or the like. In the illustrated embodiment, the hedge trimmer 100 has an actuator 118. The actuator 118 is located near the handle 108. When the handle is pressed, the actuator 118 can engage with the drive device to set the first blade 102 and the second blade 104 in motion.If the actuator 118 is pressed further, the rotational speed of the drive device can increase from zero to a maximum speed. In this respect, the actuator 118 can variably select the speed of the drive device between a standstill speed, which occurs when the actuator 118 is not pressed, and a maximum speed, which occurs when the actuator 118 is fully pressed.

[0018] Fig. Figure 1B shows a power-driven outdoor tool or a rod-like tool, for example, a hedge trimmer 200, for use in performing outdoor work, such as trimming hedges. The hedge trimmer 200 has an elongated shaft assembly 210 extending along a shaft axis 214, a cutting head 218 at one end of the shaft assembly 210, and a drive head 222 at the opposite end of the shaft assembly 210. The cutting head 218 has a blade assembly 226 for trimming or cutting. For example, the blade assembly 226 can include the first blade 102 and the second blade 104, as shown in relation to Fig. 1A is explained. The drive head 222 generates a driving force to drive the blade assembly 226 during operation of the hedge trimmer 200.

[0019] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1B, the hedge trimmer 200 has a drive head unit 230 and a tool part or attachment unit 234 (e.g., a hedge trimmer attachment, a string trimmer attachment, a pole saw attachment, etc., including, for example, a tool end, an operating tool, a tool part, etc.) which are coupled to the drive head unit 230 as needed and detachably via a first and a second connecting part 238, 242. In the illustrated embodiment, the attachment unit 234 is a hedge trimmer attachment. The shaft assembly 210 has a first and a second shaft segment 244, 246. The drive unit 230 comprises the drive 222 with an operator handle 247, the first shaft segment 244, and the connecting section 238. The attachment unit 234 includes the cutting head 218, the second shaft segment 246 and the second connecting section 242.In other embodiments (not shown), the hedge shear 200 is a separate tool, so that the cutting head 218 and the drive head 222 are not separable.

[0020] A first drive shaft segment is arranged within the first shaft segment 244 and extends axially along the shaft axis 214. The first drive shaft segment is coupled to the drive head 222. A second drive shaft segment is arranged within the second shaft segment 46 and extends axially within it. The second drive shaft segment is coupled to the cutting head 218. When the mounting unit 234 is attached to the drive unit 230, the first drive shaft segment connects with the second drive shaft segment to transmit the rotational force from the drive head 222 to the cutting head 218.

[0021] Fig. Figure 2 is a perspective view of a blade arrangement 150 according to embodiments of the present disclosure. The blade arrangement 150 can be incorporated into the Fig. 1A hedge trimmer 100 shown and / or the hedge trimmer 200 as the one in Fig. Blade arrangement 226 shown in 1B will be integrated.

[0022] In at least one embodiment, the blade assembly 150 connects the first blade 102 and the second blade 104 to a crankshaft 205. The blade assembly 150 can generally include one or more connecting rods 202A and 202B. Hereinafter, reference to the connecting rods 202 may refer to one or more of the first and second connecting rods 202A or 202B, unless otherwise specified. The connecting rods 202 can extend between the first blade 102 and the second blade 104 and the crankshaft 205. In one embodiment, the blade assembly 150 can have two connecting rods 202, which are connected to the first blade 102 or the second blade 104, respectively. One or more guides 204 can guide the first blade 102 and the second blade 104 so that they generally move back and forth. A sleeve 206 (e.g.(a split sleeve) can hold and guide at least one of the connecting rods 202, or the first blade 102, or the second blade 104. In one embodiment, the connecting rods 202 can be coupled to the first blade 102 and the second blade 104 via a pin 208. In another embodiment, the blade assembly 150 can have one or more bearings connected to the crankshaft 205. The crankshaft 205 can rotate about a vertical axis 212 in a direction indicated by arrow A. As the crankshaft 205 rotates, the first blade 102 and the second blade 104 can move in a direction indicated by arrow B.

[0023] Fig. Figure 3 is a perspective view of an arrangement of the hedge trimmer according to embodiments of the present disclosure. More precisely, Fig. Figure 3 shows a cassette arrangement of 300 for the in Fig. 1B hedge shears 200 shown.

[0024] In at least one embodiment, the cassette arrangement 300 comprises a crankshaft cassette, for example a first cassette 303, and a blade cassette, for example a second cassette 305. For example, the first cassette 303 may have a fastening element 310 for connecting the first cassette 303 to the housing of the cutting head 218, as shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 1B, the first cassette 303 also has a first cassette housing 315, which is connected to and extends from the fastening element 310. The first cassette housing 315 may have a crankshaft (not shown), such as the crankshaft 205, configured to mechanically couple to the drive device of the hedge trimmer 200. The second cassette 305 may have a second cassette housing 320. The second cassette housing 320 may be detachably connected to the first cassette housing 315 of the first cassette 303. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the first blade 102 and the second blade 104 can be arranged at least partially within and extending from the second cassette housing 320. Furthermore, one or more engagement elements (not shown) can be arranged within the second cassette housing 320 to drive the first blade 102 and the second blade 104. For example, the second cassette housing 320 can be coupled to the first cassette housing 315 such that the crankshaft is mechanically coupled to the one or more engagement elements to convert the rotary motion of the crankshaft into a linear motion of the one or more engagement elements to perform the reciprocating motion of the first blade 102 and the second blade 104.

[0025] The first cassette 303 and the second cassette 305 can provide a modular system for replacing the first blade 102 and the second blade 104 of the hedge trimmer 100. Furthermore, replacing one or both cassettes, i.e., the first cassette 303 and / or the second cassette 305, allows for changes to the gear ratio, blade speed, stroke, inertia, and blade geometry of the hedge trimmer 200. Additionally, the first cassette 303 and / or the second cassette 305 can be connected to the housing 106 and to each other by one or more fasteners. For example, the one or more fasteners can be clamping nuts and bolts, quarter-turn locks, cam locks, or a combination thereof.Additionally, a tool may be located inside or on the hedge trimmer 200 to remove and attach the first cassette 303 and / or the second cassette 305 to the hedge trimmer 200. This tool may include, for example, a hex key or a multi-tool. A "scrench" or multi-tool typically has several types of tools combined in a single unit. A multi-tool may, for example, include a screwdriver and one or more socket wrench inserts. While the first cassette 303 and the second cassette 305 are described in relation to the hedge trimmer 200, it should be clear that the first cassette 303 and the second cassette 305 can also be used with other power tools, such as pole tools like pole saws, string trimmers, and edge trimmers.

[0026] In other embodiments, the cassette arrangement 300 can be placed in the Fig. The hedge trimmer 100 shown in 1A may be integrated. For example, the fastening element 310 can be detachably connected to or arranged within the housing 106.

[0027] Fig. Figure 4A is a partial elevation view of an arrangement of the hedge shear 200 according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Fig. 4B is an elevation view of the arrangement of the hedge trimmer 200 from Fig. 4A according to embodiments of the present disclosure. More precisely, Fig. Figures 4A-4B show a housing 400 of the cutting head 218 which is in Fig. 1B hedge trimmer 200. In other embodiments, the housing 400 can be inserted into the housing 106 of the one shown in Fig. The hedge trimmer shown in 1A is integrated.

[0028] In at least one embodiment, the housing 400 has a crankshaft 205. The crankshaft 205 can engage with the first blade 102 and the second blade 104 via a first connecting rod 405 and a second connecting rod 410. The first connecting rod 405 and the second connecting rod can be similar or analogous to the first connecting rod 202A and the second connecting rod 202B, which, with respect to Fig. 2 are discussed. The first connecting rod 405 is coupled to the crankshaft 205 and configured to drive the first blade 102, and the second connecting rod 410 is coupled to the crankshaft 205 and configured to drive the second blade 104. For example, the first blade 102 may have a first opening 415 adjacent to the first end 121, configured to receive a first projection 420 extending from the first connecting rod 405, such that the first blade 102 is detachably attached to the first connecting rod 405. Additionally, the second connecting rod 410 may have a second opening 425 configured to receive a second projection 430 extending from a surface of the second blade 104 adjacent to the first end 121, such that the second blade 104 is detachably attached to the second connecting rod 410.Accordingly, the first blade 102, the second blade 104, the first connecting rod 405, and the second connecting rod 410 are designed to extend at least partially from the housing 400. Additionally, a sleeve 438 can be coupled to the housing 400 to accommodate the second shaft segment 245 of the shaft assembly 210, as shown in [reference]. Fig. 1B is shown.

[0029] The first connecting rod 405 has a first length, and the second connecting rod 410 has a second length that differs from the first length. In at least one embodiment, the second length is greater than the first length. In other embodiments, the first length can be greater than the second length. The different lengths allow the first connecting rod 405 and the second connecting rod 410 to be arranged offset from each other, which can improve the ease of maintenance and replacement of the first blade 102 and the second blade 104.

[0030] Furthermore, the first connecting rod 405 has a first weight and the second connecting rod 410 has a second weight that differs from the first weight. In at least one illustrative embodiment, the first weight is less than the second weight. In other illustrative embodiments, the first weight can be greater than the second weight. The different weights of the first connecting rod 405 and the second connecting rod 410 provide a counterweight, thereby reducing vibrations.

[0031] According to Fig. 4A The housing 400 can have a first cover 435 and a second cover 440. The first cover 435 can be detachably connected to the housing 400 and configured to cover the crankshaft 205 and at least a portion of the first connecting rod 405 and the second connecting rod 410. The first cover 435 can also cover at least a portion of the first blade 102 and the second blade 104 adjacent to the first end 121. The second cover 440 can be detachably connected to the housing 400 and configured to cover at least a portion of the first connecting rod 405 and the second connecting rod 410 extending from the first cover 435. The second cover 440 can also cover at least a portion of the first blade 102 and the second blade 104.The first cover 435 and the second cover 440 can be connected to the housing 400 by one or more fastening devices, such as screws and clamps, via rails, or by a friction fit. By using a separate cover to protect the crankshaft 205 (the first cover 435), it is possible for the crankshaft 205 to remain lubricated, inaccessible, and protected, while another cover (the second cover 440) can be removed separately to remove and replace the first blade 102 and the second blade 104.

[0032] With reference to Fig. In Figure 4B, where the first cover 435 and the second cover 440 have been removed for illustrative purposes, the first blade 102, the second blade 104, and the column 120 can be coupled to the crankshaft 205 of the housing 400 by means of a mounting plate 445. The mounting plate 445 can have a first group of openings 450 arranged in a central section of the mounting plate 445 and a second group of openings 455 arranged adjacent to circumferential edges of the mounting plate 445. The first group of openings 450 can be aligned with one or more guides 204 of the first blade 102 and the second blade 104. Accordingly, the number of the first group of openings 450 can be equal to the number of one or more guides 204. The first group of openings 450 and the one or more guides 204 can be configured to accommodate a first group of fasteners 475.The first group of fasteners 475 can be configured to fasten the first blade 102, the second blade 104, and the column 120 to the mounting plate 445, while the first blade 102 and the second blade 104 can move back and forth over one or more guides 204. The first group of fasteners 475 can comprise screws, bolts, pins, or other fasteners for attaching the first blade 102, the second blade 104, and the column 120 to the mounting plate 445.

[0033] The second group of openings 455 can be arranged adjacent to the first side 451 and / or the second side 452 opposite the first side 451 of the housing 400. As, for example, in Fig. As shown in Figure 4B, the second group of openings 455 includes one or more openings arranged adjacent to the first side 451 and one or more openings arranged adjacent to the second side 452. Furthermore, the second group of openings 455 may be arranged in one or more areas extending from the circumferential edges of the mounting plate 445. The one or more openings 455 may be aligned with one or more base openings 460 arranged in a base section 465 of the housing 400. For example, the number of one or more openings 455 may be equal to the number of the second group of openings 455. In addition, the base section 465 may have a recess 470 to accommodate, at least partially, the first connecting rod 405, the second connecting rod 410, the first blade 102, the second blade 104, and the column 120.The second group of openings 455 of the mounting plate 445 and the one or more base openings 460 of the base section 465 can be configured to accommodate a second group of fasteners 480 for attaching the mounting plate 445 to the base section 465. The second group of fasteners 480 can comprise screws, bolts, pins, or other fasteners for securing the mounting plate 445 to the base section 465. Accordingly, the mounting plate 445 is configured to cover the recess 470 and to fix the first blade 102, the second blade 104, and the column 120 within the recess 170 of the base section 465.

[0034] Fig. Figure 5A is a cross-sectional view of a housing 500 of the exemplary hedge shears 100, 200 according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Fig. 5B is an elevation view of the 500 housing. Fig. 5A according to embodiments of the present disclosure. The housing 500 can be integrated into the housing 106 of the hedge trimmer 100 and / or the housing of the cutting head 218 of the hedge trimmer 200.

[0035] In at least one embodiment, the housing 500 has the crankshaft 205, which is mechanically coupled to the first blade 102 and the second blade 104. The housing 500 can also have a connecting arrangement 503 for mechanically coupling the first blade 102 and the second blade 104 to the crankshaft 205 via the first connecting rod 405 and the second connecting rod 410. Furthermore, the connecting arrangement 503 includes a first connecting element 515 and a second connecting element 520. The first connecting element 515 is coupled between the first connecting rod 405 and the first blade 102, and the second connecting element 520 is coupled between the second connecting rod 410 and the second blade 104. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figures 5A-5B, the column 120 can have a curved section 512 to provide space within the housing 500 for the first connecting element 515 and the second connecting element 520.

[0036] The first connecting element 515 has a connecting opening 525 for receiving a blade projection 530 extending from a surface of the first blade 102. The blade projection 530 can be removably inserted into the connecting opening 525 to detachably couple the first blade 102 to the first connecting element 515. The second blade 104 has a blade opening 535 for receiving a connecting projection 540 extending from a surface of the second connecting element 520.

[0037] The second blade 104 can be detachably connected to the second connecting element 520 via the blade opening 535 and the connecting projection 540.

[0038] According to Fig. In 5B, the housing 500 can have a removable housing section 545. The removable housing section 545 can be removed from the housing 500 to provide access to the first blade 102 and the second blade 104, so that the first blade 102 and the second blade 104 can be removed from and replaced by the first connecting link 515 and the second connecting link 520, respectively.

[0039] Fig. Figure 6 is a perspective view of a crankshaft 600 according to embodiments of the present disclosure. The crankshaft 600 can be integrated into the exemplary hedge trimmer 100, 200. Furthermore, the crankshaft 600 can be similar to or analogous to the crankshaft 205.

[0040] In at least one embodiment, the crankshaft 600 extends along a crankshaft axis 605 between a first end 601 and a second end 602. The first end 601 of the crankshaft 600 can be designed to be mechanically coupled to the drive device of the hedge trimmer 100, 200 to cause the crankshaft 600 to rotate about the crankshaft axis 605. The crankshaft 600 has a first cam 610 and a second cam 615 opposite the first cam 610. The first cam 610 and the second cam 615 are designed to convert the rotary motion of the crankshaft 600 into a reciprocating linear motion of the first blade 102 and the second blade 104 during operation of the hedge trimmer 100, 200.

[0041] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 6, the second end 602 of the crankshaft 600 can have an opening 620. In at least one embodiment, the opening 620 has a hexagonal shape. In other embodiments, the opening 620 can have any polygonal shape.

[0042] The opening 620 can be configured to receive a tool for rotating the crankshaft 600. For example, the tool can be configured to rotate the crankshaft 600 via the opening 620 in order to align or relocate the first blade 102 and the second blade 104 over the first cam 610 and the second cam 615 so that the first blade 102 and the second blade 104 are accessible for removal. In at least one embodiment, the tool includes a wrench, a hex key, a screwdriver, or another tool or engagement mechanism in the opening 620 for rotating the crankshaft 600.

[0043] Fig. Figure 7 is a detailed view of a blade arrangement 700 of the exemplary hedge shears 100, 200 according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 8 is a perspective view of a mounting of the blade assembly 700 from Fig. 7 according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 9 is a top view of a blade of the blade arrangement 700. Fig. 7 according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0044] The blade assembly 700 can be similar or analogous to the exemplary blade assembly 150 of the hedge trimmer 100 and the exemplary blade assembly 226 of the hedge trimmer 200. For example, the blade assembly 700 includes the column 120, which is connected to the first blade 102 and the second blade 104. The column 120 can be connected to the first blade 102 and the second blade 104 by one or more fastening elements 705. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 7, the one or more fasteners 705 may comprise screws, nuts, bolts, or a combination thereof. Additionally or alternatively, the one or more fasteners 705 may comprise one or more cam-lock fasteners, such as the exemplary cam-lock fastener shown in Figure 7. Fig. 8 is shown. In addition, the hedge shear 100, 200 may include an integrated tool, such as a hexagon key or a multi-tool, for removing one or more fasteners 704 and for attaching one or more fasteners 705 to the column 120, the first blade 102 and the second blade 104.

[0045] According to Fig. In at least one embodiment, the first blade 102 and the second blade 104 can have multiple slots 900 spaced apart along the first blade 102 and the second blade 104. The multiple slots 900 are configured to receive one or more fastening elements 705. In at least one embodiment, one or more of the multiple slots 900 can have a wrench hole. For example, one or more of the multiple slots 900 can have a first section 905 and a second section 910 extending from the first section 905. The second section 910 can be an elongated slot extending from the first section 905. The first section 905 can also have a larger diameter than the second section 910.Accordingly, one or more fastening elements 705 can be inserted through the first section 905 and pushed axially into the second section 910 to fasten the first blade 102 and the second blade 104 to the column 120. Similarly, to remove the first blade 102 and the second blade 104 from the column 120, one or more fastening elements 705 can be pushed axially from the second section 910 to the first section 905 for removal through the first section 905.

[0046] Fig. Figure 10A is a perspective view of a blade arrangement 1000 of the exemplary hedge shears 100, 200 in a locked state according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Fig. 10B is a perspective view of the blade arrangement 1000 from Fig. 10A in an unlocked state according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Fig. 10C is an elevation view of the blade arrangement 1000 from Fig. 10A according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Fig. 10D is a cross-sectional view of the blade arrangement 1000 from Fig. 10A according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0047] The blade assembly 1000 can be similar or analogous to the exemplary blade assembly 150, 226, 700 described above. For example, the blade assembly 1000 comprises the column 120, which is connected to the first blade 102 and the second blade 104. The column 120 can be connected to the first blade 102 and the second blade 104 by one or more fasteners 1010. Furthermore, the first blade 102 and the second blade 104 have several elongated slots 1005 spaced apart along the length of the first blade 102 and the second blade 104 to accommodate the one or more fasteners 1010.

[0048] In at least one embodiment, one or more fastening elements can include 1010 quarter-turn fasteners. For example, in Fig. As shown in Figure 10D, the one or more fastening elements 1010 can have a base section 1015 extending between a first end 601 and a second end 1002. The base section 1015 is configured to be inserted through the multiple elongated slots 1005 of the first blade 102 and the second blade 104. The base section 1015 is also configured to be inserted into a corresponding opening formed in the column 120. The first end 601 of the one or more fastening elements 1010 can have an elongated surface 1020 extending perpendicular to the base section 1015 and configured to abut an outer surface of the first blade 102 and / or the second blade 104. The second end 602 of the one or more fastening elements 1010 is configured to abut and extend from an outer surface of the column 120.The second end 602 of the one or more fastening elements 1010 can have multiple threads 1025 for engaging with a nut 1030 in order to fasten the one or more fastening elements 1010 to the column 120, the first blade 102, and the second blade 104. Furthermore, the one or more fastening elements 1010 can have a washer 1035 that is at least partially positioned between the column 120 and the nut 1030.

[0049] The elongated surface 1020 and / or the base section 1015 of the single or multiple fastening elements 1010 are designed to rotate relative to the nut 1030. For example, the elongated surface 1020 and / or the base section 1015 can be designed to rotate by at least 90°. Furthermore, the elongated surface 1020 and / or the base section 1015 are designed to engage in a locked position, which is Fig. 10A is shown, and an unlocked position, which is in Fig. 10B is shown, to turn. In the Fig. In the locked position shown in 10A, the elongated surface 1020 can extend perpendicularly to the length of the multiple elongated slots 1005, so that one or more fastening elements 1010 fix the first blade 102 and the second blade to the column 120. In the unlocked position, which is shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 10B, the elongated surface 1020 can extend parallel to the length of the multiple elongated slots 1005, so that the first blade 102 and the second blade 104 can be removed from the one or more fastening elements 1010 and the column 120, as shown in Fig. 10C is shown.

[0050] Fig. Figure 11A is a schematic diagram of a blade arrangement 1100 of the exemplary hedge shears 100, 200 in a locked state according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Fig. 11B is a schematic diagram of the blade arrangement 1100 from Fig. 11A in an unlocked state according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0051] The blade assembly 1100 can be similar or analogous to the exemplary blade assembly 150, 226, 700, 1000 described above. For example, the blade assembly 1100 comprises the column 120, which is connected to the first blade 102 and the second blade 104. Additionally, the first blade 102 and the second blade 104 are connected to a first connecting rod 1105 and a second connecting rod 1110. The first connecting rod 1105 and the second connecting rod 1110 can be similar or analogous to the first connecting rod 202A, 405 and the second connecting rod 202B, 410, which are described in relation to Fig. 2 and 4A-4B are explained.

[0052] In at least one embodiment, the first blade 102 has a first projection 115 extending perpendicular to a length of the first blade 102 and configured to engage with the first connecting rod 1105. The second blade 104 has a second projection 1120 extending perpendicular to a length of the second blade 104 and configured to engage with the second connecting rod 1110. For example, the first connecting rod 1105 has a first recess 1125 for receiving the first projection 1115 of the first blade 102, and the second connecting rod 1110 has a second recess 1130 for receiving the second projection 1120 of the second blade 104.

[0053] In at least one embodiment, the second connecting rod 1110 has a first rod segment 1135 and a second rod segment 1140. The second rod segment 1140 can define the second recess 1130 and is configured to engage with the second blade 104. Furthermore, the second rod segment 1140 is pivotably connected to the first rod segment at a hinge joint 1145. For example, the second rod segment 1140 is configured to move relative to the first rod segment 1135 into an engagement position that is Fig. 11A is shown, and a disengagement position which is in Fig. As shown in Figure 11B, the blade is pivotable. Accordingly, the first blade 102 and the second blade 104 can be attached to the hedge trimmer 100, 200 in the engagement position, and the first blade 102 and the second blade 104 can be removed and replaced in the disengaged position.

[0054] Fig. Figure 12A is a cross-sectional view of a housing 1200 of the hedge trimmer 100, 200 according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Fig. 12B is a cross-sectional view of the 1200 housing. Fig. 12A from above according to embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, the housing 1200 can be integrated as housing 106 into the exemplary hedge trimmer 100, and the housing 1200 can be integrated into the exemplary hedge trimmer 200 as the housing of the cutting head 218.

[0055] In at least one embodiment, the housing 1200 comprises the crankshaft 205, the first connecting rod 405 configured to be coupled to the first blade 102, and the second connecting rod 410 configured to be coupled to the second blade 104. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 12A, at least part of the column 120 can also be arranged inside the housing 1200.

[0056] In at least one embodiment, the first connecting rod 405, the second connecting rod 410, the first blade 102, and the second blade 104 each have openings designed to be aligned with each other within the housing 1200. A blade pin 1205 can be inserted into the openings of the first connecting rod 405, the second connecting rod 410, the first blade 102, and the second blade 104 to fix the first blade 102 and the second blade 104 to the first connecting rod 405 and the second connecting rod 410 within the housing 1200.

[0057] The housing 1200 has a first side 1201 and a second side 1202 opposite the first side. In at least one embodiment, the housing 1200 can have a removable side cover (not shown) configured to engage with the first side 1201 of the housing. After removing the side cover, an inner part of the housing 1200 can be accessed, as shown in Fig. 12A shown. For example, the blade pin 1205 can be exposed and made accessible for removal, as shown in Fig. Figure 12B shows that after removing the blade pin 1205, the first blade 102 and the second blade 104 can be pulled off or removed from the second side 1202 of the housing 1200, as indicated by the arrow 1210. Additionally, the first blade 102 and the second blade 104 can be replaced via the second side 1202 of the housing 1200, the blade pin 1205 can be replaced, and the side cover (not shown) can be attached to the housing 1200 next to the second side 1202.

[0058] Fig. Figure 13 is a schematic diagram of a blade arrangement 1300 of the exemplary hedge shears 100, 200 according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0059] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 13, the blade assembly 1300 has the first blade 102 and the second blade 104, as well as the first connecting rod 405 and the second connecting rod for connecting the first blade 102 and the second blade 104 to the crankshaft 205 ( Fig. 2) In at least one embodiment, a first blade opening 1305 is formed in the first blade 102, a second blade opening 1306 is formed in the second blade 104, a first rod opening 1307 is formed in the first connecting rod 405, and a second rod opening 1308 is formed in the second connecting rod 410. The first blade opening 1305, the second blade opening 1306, the first rod opening 1307, and the second rod opening 1308 are configured such that they are aligned adjacent to the first end 121 of the first blade 102 and the second blade 104, as shown in Fig. Figure 13 shows. Furthermore, the first blade opening 1305, the second blade opening 1306, the first rod opening 1307, and the second rod opening 1308 are designed to receive at least one pin 1310. The at least one pin 1310 is designed to fix the first blade 102 and the second blade 104 to the first connecting rod 405 and the second connecting rod 410, respectively.

[0060] In some embodiments, the at least one pin 1310 can represent two pins, as in Fig. Figure 13 shows. For example, the at least one pin 1310 can have a first pin 1311 for insertion through the first rod opening 1307 of the first connecting rod 405 and the first blade opening 1305 of the first blade 102, and a second pin 1312 for insertion through the second rod opening 1308 of the second connecting rod 410 and the second blade opening 1306 of the second blade 104. The first pin 1311 and the second pin 1312 can be removed from the first blade opening 1305, the second blade opening 1306, the first rod opening 1307 and the second rod opening 1308, as indicated by the arrows 1315, so that the first blade 102 and the second blade 104 can be removed from the first connecting rod 405 and the second connecting rod 410, as indicated by the arrow 1320.

[0061] Fig. Figure 14 is a schematic diagram of a blade arrangement 1400 of the hedge cutter 100, 200 according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0062] The blade assembly 1400 has the first blade 102, the second blade 104, and the crankshaft 205. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 14, the first blade 102 and the second blade 104 can be directly coupled to the crankshaft 205, for example without the one shown in Figure 14. Fig. Figure 13 shows the first connecting rod 405 and the second connecting rod 410. In such embodiments, the first blade 102 has a first blade opening 1405 and the second blade 104 has a second blade opening 1410. The first blade opening 1405 and the second blade opening 1410 can be configured to removably receive the crankshaft 205. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 14, the removal of the crankshaft 205 from the first blade opening 1405 and the second blade opening 1410, as shown by arrow 1415, enables the removal of the first blade 102 and the second blade 104 from the hedge shears 100, 200, as shown by arrow 1420.

[0063] Fig. Figure 15 is a perspective view of a blade arrangement 1500 of the hedge shears 100, 200 according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0064] In at least one embodiment, the first blade 102 and / or the second blade 104 can have a plate 1505 that adjoins the first end 121 of the first blade 102 and the second blade 104. The plate 1505 has one or more openings 1510 for receiving one or more fastening elements for attaching the first blade 102 and / or the second blade 104 to the crankshaft 205 ( Fig. 2) on. Additionally or alternatively, the one or more openings 1510 can accommodate one or more fastening elements to attach the first blade 102 and / or the second blade 104 to the first connecting rod 202A, 405 and the second connecting rod 202B, 410.

[0065] Fig. Figure 16 is a perspective interior view of a housing 1600 of the hedge trimmer 100, 200 according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0066] In at least one embodiment, a motor 1605 is arranged within the housing 1600 and mechanically coupled to the crankshaft 205. The first connecting rod 405 and the second connecting rod 410 are arranged in the housing 1600 and coupled to the crankshaft 205. Furthermore, the first blade 102 and the second blade 104 are coupled to the first connecting rod 405 and the second connecting rod 410, respectively, and extend out of the housing 1600.

[0067] The motor 1605 is designed to rotate the crankshaft 205 about a pivot axis 1610. The rotary motion of the crankshaft 205 is converted into a linear motion of the first connecting rod 405 and the second connecting rod 410 in order to transmit this linear or reciprocating motion to the first blade 102 and the second blade 104. For example, the first connecting rod 405, the second connecting rod 410, the first blade 102, and the second blade 104 are moved back and forth in a first direction 1615 and a second direction 1612 opposite to the first direction 1615. Furthermore, the first direction 1615 and the second direction 1620 are transverse or perpendicular to the pivot axis 1610.

[0068] In at least one embodiment, an actuator, such as the one described in Fig. Actuator 118, shown in Figure 1A, is electrically coupled to motor 1605 to activate and deactivate motor 1605 as needed. For example, pressing the actuator can activate motor 1605, causing the first blade 102 and second blade 104 to move, and releasing the actuator can deactivate motor 1605. After releasing the actuator, motor 1605 can rotate so that the first blade 102 and first connecting rod 405 are in a desired position or offset relative to the second blade 104 and second connecting rod 410. For example, a first axis 1625 can extend through a connection point of the first blade 102 and first connecting rod 405, and a second axis 1630 can extend through a connection point of the second blade 104 and second connecting rod 410. As shown in Figure 1A, the actuator can be moved to a desired position or offset relative to the second blade 104 and second connecting rod 410. Fig. As shown in Figure 16, the desired position can be such that the first axis 1625 is arranged in front of the second axis 1630 when the actuator is released. In other embodiments, the desired position can be such that the second axis 1630 is arranged in front of the first axis 1625.

[0069] By repositioning the first blade 102 and the second blade 104, and thus the first connecting rod 405 and the second connecting rod 410, when the actuator is released, the first blade 102 and the second blade 104 can be moved into a position for removal and replacement. Furthermore, if the hedge trimmer 100, 200 stalls during operation, the actuator can be pressed and then released to move the blades into the desired, offset position.

[0070] Fig. Figure 17 is a schematic view of a control system 1700 according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0071] In at least one embodiment, the hedge trimmer 100, 200 comprises the control system 1700. For example, the control system 1700 can be arranged within the housing 106 of the hedge trimmer 100, and the control system 1700 can be arranged in the drive head 222 and / or in the cutting head 218 of the hedge trimmer 200. Furthermore, the control system 1700 can be configured to control the operation of the drive device of the hedge trimmer 100, 200. For example, the control system 1700 can control the operation of the motor 1605, as previously described with respect to Fig. 16 is explained.

[0072] The control system 1700 can include one or more computing units 1710. The computing unit(s) 1710 can be configured to execute one or more methods according to exemplary aspects of the present disclosure (such as the one described below with reference to Fig. 18. The computing device(s) 1710 may comprise one or more processors 1715 and one or more memory devices 1720. The one or more processors 1715 may include any suitable processing device, such as a microprocessor, a microcontroller, an integrated circuit, a logic device, or any other suitable processing device. The one or more memory devices 1720 may include one or more computer-readable media, including, but not limited to, non-volatile computer-readable media, RAM, ROM, hard disks, flash drives, or other storage devices.

[0073] The one or more storage devices 1720 can store information that the one or more processors 1715 can access, including computer-readable instructions 1725 that can be executed by the one or more processors 1715. The instructions 1725 can each be a group of instructions which, when executed by the one or more processors 1715, cause the one or more processors 1715 to perform operations. The instructions 1725 can be software written in any suitable programming language, or they can be implemented in hardware.In some embodiments, the instructions 1725 can be executed by the one or more processors 1715 to cause the one or more processors 1715 to perform operations, such as the operations described herein for controlling the drive device and / or other operations or functions of the one or more computing devices 1710. Additionally and / or alternatively, the instructions 1725 can be executed in logically and / or virtually separate execution streams on the one or more processors 1715. The storage device(s) 1720 can also store data 1730 which can be accessed by the one or more processors 1715.

[0074] The computing unit(s) 1710 may also have a communication interface 1735, which, for example, is used to communicate with the components of the hedge trimmer 100, 200, such as the actuator, the drive unit, and / or one or more other computing units 1710. The communication interface 1735 may include all suitable components for connecting to these components or to one or more communication networks, including, for example, transmitters, receivers, connectors, controllers, antennas, wired communication buses, or other suitable components. For example, the communication interface 1735 may communicate with an external device via a wired or wireless connection. The external device may be a mobile phone, a computer, a laptop, a tablet, or another device. The control system 1700 may also be connected to various sensors (e.g.,via the communication interface 1735) and control the drive device of the hedge trimmer 100, 200 as needed in response to user inputs and feedback from these sensors.

[0075] The technology described herein relates to computer-based systems and actions performed by computer-based systems, as well as information sent to and received from them. It should be noted that the inherent flexibility of computer-based systems allows for a wide variety of possible configurations, combinations, and distributions of tasks and functions between and among components. For example, the processes described herein can be implemented using a single computing unit or multiple computing units working together. Databases, storage, instructions, and applications can be implemented on a single system or distributed across multiple systems. Distributed components can operate sequentially or in parallel.

[0076] Fig. Figure 18 is a flowchart of a method 1800 for operating a power-driven tool according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. More precisely, Fig. Figure 18 illustrates the procedure 1800 for operating the hedge shears 100, 200.

[0077] In at least one embodiment, the method 1800 comprises providing a housing with a motor and a crankshaft connected to the motor at 1805, connecting a blade assembly to the crankshaft at 1810, determining a blade type of the blade assembly at 1815, and operating the motor based on the blade type determined at 1820.

[0078] The provision of a housing with a motor and a crankshaft coupled to the motor at 1805 may include the provision of the housing 106 with a drive device or motor of the hedge trimmer 100, as in relation to Fig. 1A is explained. The provision of a housing with a motor and a crankshaft connected to the motor at 1805 may also include the provision of the drive head 222 and / or the cutting head 218 of the hedge trimmer 200, as described in relation to Fig. 1B is explained. The crankshaft can include the crankshaft 205, which is explained with reference to Fig. 2-6 and 16 are explained. Furthermore, coupling a blade unit to the crankshaft at 1810 can include coupling the first blade 102 and the second blade 104 to the crankshaft 205, as explained in relation to Fig. 2-16 is explained. The blade unit can contain the first blade 102 and the second blade 104.

[0079] In at least one embodiment, determining the blade type of the blade unit at 1815 comprises sensing the power input from the motor, sensing the speed, for example, the rotational speed, of the motor, and identifying the blade type of the first blade 102 and / or the second blade 104 based on the power input and the speed or rotational speed of the motor. In some embodiments, determining the blade type of the blade unit at 1815 comprises sensing the voltage of the blade unit containing the first blade 102 and the second blade 104. For example, the hedge trimmer 100, 200 can supply a set voltage, a ground signal, and a feedback signal to the blade unit. The blade unit contains a group of resistors and returns a blade unit voltage to the feedback signal.The voltage of the blade unit allows the hedge trimmer 100, 200, for example via the control system 1700, to identify the blade type of the blade unit connected to the hedge trimmer 100, 200.

[0080] In further embodiments, determining a blade type of the blade unit at 1815 includes identifying the blade type based on pull-up resistors of the blade unit, pull-down resistors of the blade unit, or a combination thereof. For example, the hedge trimmer 100, 200 provides a number of connections to the blade unit, including voltage, ground, and one or more address signals. The blade unit can use pull-up and / or pull-down resistors to configure the one or more address signals so that the hedge trimmer 100, 200 can identify the blade type of the first blade 102 and the second blade 104 of the blade unit.

[0081] In further embodiments, the blade unit can have a high-frequency identification tag (RFID tag), and the hedge trimmer 100, 200 can have a near-field communication circuit (NFC circuit) that is communicatively coupled to the control system 1700. In such embodiments, determining a blade type for the blade unit at 1815 can include receiving the blade type from the RFID tag via NFC.

[0082] Further aspects of the disclosure are provided by one or more of the following embodiments: An outdoor power tool comprising: a first blade extending from a first end to a second end; a second blade extending from the first end to the second end; a first connecting rod connected at the first end to the first blade and having a first length; a second connecting rod connected at the first end to the second blade and having a second length different from the first length; and a crankshaft coupled to the first connecting rod and the second connecting rod to transmit a reciprocating motion to the first blade and / or second blade in a first direction and a second direction, the second direction being opposite to the first direction.

[0083] The power-operated outdoor tool of one or more embodiments, further comprising: a crankshaft cassette containing the crankshaft; and a blade cassette, wherein the first blade, the second blade, the first connecting rod and the second connecting rod are at least partially arranged within the blade cassette; wherein the blade cassette can be detachably coupled to the crankshaft cassette.

[0084] The power-driven outdoor tool of one or more of the embodiments, wherein the first length is greater than the second length.

[0085] The power-driven outdoor tool of one or more of the embodiments, wherein the second length is greater than the first length.

[0086] The power-operated outdoor tool of one or more embodiments, wherein a first weight of the first connecting rod is greater than a second weight of the second connecting rod.

[0087] The power-operated outdoor tool of one or more embodiments, wherein a first weight of the first connecting rod is less than a second weight of the second connecting rod.

[0088] The power-operated outdoor tool of one or more embodiments, further comprising: a housing containing the crankshaft, wherein the first connecting rod, the second connecting rod, the first blade and the second blade extend at least partially from the housing; a first cover detachably connected to the housing, wherein the first cover is configured to cover the crankshaft and at least a portion of the first connecting rod and the second connecting rod; and a second cover detachably connected to the housing adjacent to the first cover and configured to cover at least a portion of the first connecting rod, the second connecting rod, the first blade and the second blade.

[0089] The power-operated outdoor tool of one or more of the embodiments further comprises a first connecting member that is attached between the first blade and the first connecting rod; and a second connecting member that is attached between the second blade and the second connecting rod; wherein the first connecting member has a connecting opening for receiving a blade projection extending from a surface of the first blade adjacent to the first end; and wherein the second blade has a blade opening for receiving a connecting projection extending from a surface of the second connecting member.

[0090] The power-operated outdoor tool of one or more embodiments, further comprising a column or shaft for holding the first blade and the second blade, wherein the first blade and the second blade have one or more slots; and wherein the first blade and the second blade are connected to the column by one or more fastening elements extending through the one or more slots.

[0091] The power-operated outdoor tool of one or more embodiments, wherein the one or more fastening elements comprise screws, nuts, bolts or a combination thereof.

[0092] The power-operated outdoor tool of one or more embodiments, wherein the one or more fastening elements comprise one or more cam-locking fastening elements.

[0093] The power-operated outdoor tool according to one or more of the embodiments, wherein the one or more fastening elements comprise one or more quarter-turn fasteners.

[0094] The power-operated outdoor tool according to one or more of the embodiments, further comprising a wrench, a hexagon key or a tool for loosening one or more fasteners and for removing the first blade and / or the second blade from the column.

[0095] The power-driven outdoor tool according to one or more of the embodiments, wherein the crankshaft has an opening for receiving a tool for rotating the crankshaft.

[0096] The power-operated outdoor tool of one or more embodiments, wherein: the second connecting rod has a first rod segment designed to engage with the first end of the second blade, a second rod segment designed to engage with the crankshaft, and a joint connecting the first rod segment and the second rod segment; the second rod segment is designed to pivot about the joint into an engagement position and a disengagement position; the second rod segment locks the first blade and the second blade in the engagement position; and the first blade and the second blade can be removed in the disengagement position.

[0097] The power-operated outdoor tool of one or more of the embodiments further comprises: a housing containing the crankshaft, wherein the first connecting rod, the second connecting rod, the first blade and the second blade extend at least partially from the housing; and a side cover detachably connected to the housing, wherein removing the side cover from the housing exposes the crankshaft, the first connecting rod, the second connecting rod, the first blade and the second blade.

[0098] The power-operated outdoor tool of one or more embodiments, wherein: the first blade has a first opening next to the first end; the second blade has a second opening next to the first end; the first connecting rod has a first rod opening; the second connecting rod has a second rod opening; the first opening, the second opening, the first rod opening and the second rod opening are aligned; and the first opening, the second opening, the first rod opening and the second rod opening are configured to removably receive at least one pin for fastening the first blade and the second blade to the first connecting rod and the second connecting rod.

[0099] The power-operated outdoor tool of one or more embodiments, wherein: the first blade has a first opening next to the first end; the second blade has a second opening next to the first end, the second opening being aligned with the first opening; and the first opening and the second opening are designed to accommodate the crankshaft in a removable manner.

[0100] The power-operated outdoor tool of one or more embodiments, wherein the first blade and the second blade have a plate next to the first end, the plate having one or more openings for receiving one or more fastening elements for attaching the first blade and the second blade to the crankshaft.

[0101] The power-driven outdoor tool of one or more embodiments, wherein the first blade and the second blade are slidably connected to each other by a sleeve spaced apart from the crankshaft.

[0102] The power-driven outdoor tool of one or more embodiments, wherein the first connecting rod and the second connecting rod are designed to convert the rotary motion of the crankshaft about an axis of rotation into a linear motion of the first blade and the second blade.

[0103] The power-driven outdoor tool of one or more embodiments, further comprising a motor coupled to the crankshaft, the motor being configured to rotate the crankshaft about an axis of rotation, the first direction and the second direction being transverse to the axis of rotation; the first connecting rod and the second connecting rod being configured to convert the rotary motion of the crankshaft about the axis of rotation into a linear motion of the first blade and the second blade.

[0104] The power-driven outdoor tool of one or more of the embodiments further comprises an electrically coupled actuator for selectively activating and deactivating the motor; wherein releasing the actuator, so that the motor is deactivated, causes the first blade and the second blade to move into a deactivation position, such that the first blade projects beyond the second blade.

[0105] The power-driven outdoor tool of one or more of the embodiments, wherein the power-driven outdoor tool is a hedge trimmer.

[0106] The power-driven outdoor tool of one or more embodiments, further comprising: a drive head with a motor configured to be coupled to the crankshaft; a housing comprising the crankshaft, the first connecting rod and the second connecting rod, wherein the first blade and the second blade are configured to extend at least partially out of the housing; and an elongated shaft extending between the drive head and the housing.

[0107] A method for operating a power-driven outdoor tool, comprising: providing a housing with a motor and a crankshaft coupled to the motor; coupling a blade assembly with a first blade and a second blade to the crankshaft; determining a blade type for the first blade and the second blade; and operating the motor based on the blade type.

[0108] The method according to one or more of the embodiments, wherein operating the motor comprises moving the first blade and the second blade in a first direction and a second direction opposite to the first direction.

[0109] The method according to one or more of the embodiments, wherein determining the blade type comprises: detecting a power input from the motor; detecting a speed of the motor; and identifying the blade type based on the power input from the motor and the speed of the motor.

[0110] The method according to one or more of the embodiments, wherein determining the blade type includes detecting a voltage of the blade unit.

[0111] The method according to one or more of the embodiments, wherein determining the blade type comprises identifying the blade type based on pull-up resistances of the blade unit, pull-down resistances of the blade unit or a combination thereof.

[0112] The method according to one or more of the embodiments, wherein the blade unit comprises a high-frequency identification (RFID) tag and wherein determining the blade type comprises receiving the blade type from the RFID tag via a near-field communication (NFC) circuit.

[0113] This description uses examples to disclose the present application, including its best embodiment, and to enable a person skilled in the art to put the disclosure into practice, including the manufacture and use of devices or systems and the implementation of integrated processes. The patentable scope of the disclosure is defined by the claims and may include other examples that would be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such other examples shall be deemed to fall within the scope of the claims if they contain structural elements that do not differ from the wording of the claims or if they contain equivalent structural elements with insignificant differences from the wording of the 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 / 692,311

[0001]

Claims

[1] A power-operated outdoor tool, with: a first blade extending from a first end to a second end; a second blade extending from the first end to the second end; a first connecting rod which is connected at the first end to the first blade and has a first length; a second connecting rod, which is connected at the first end to the second blade and has a second length that differs from the first length; and a crankshaft connected to the first connecting rod and the second connecting rod to transmit a reciprocating motion to the first blade and / or the second blade in a first direction and a second direction, the second direction being opposite to the first direction. [2] The power-operated outdoor tool according to claim 1, which further comprises: a crankshaft cassette containing the crankshaft; and a blade cassette, wherein the first blade, the second blade, the first connecting rod and the second connecting rod are arranged at least partially within the blade cassette; the blade cassette is detachable and can be connected to the crankshaft cassette. [3] The power-operated outdoor tool according to claim 1, wherein: the first length is greater than the second length; and The first weight of the first connecting rod is greater than the second weight of the second connecting rod. [4] The power-operated outdoor tool according to claim 1, further comprising: a housing containing the crankshaft, wherein the first connecting rod, the second connecting rod, the first blade and the second blade extend at least partially from the housing; a first cover which is detachably connected to the housing, the first cover being designed to cover the crankshaft and at least part of the first connecting rod and the second connecting rod; and a second cover which is detachably connected to the housing next to the first cover and is designed to cover at least part of the first connecting rod, the second connecting rod, the first blade and the second blade. [5] The power-operated outdoor tool according to claim 1, further comprising: a first connecting link that is coupled between the first blade and the first connecting rod; and a second connecting link that is coupled between the second blade and the second connecting rod; wherein the first connecting member has a connecting opening for receiving a blade projection extending from a surface of the first blade adjacent to the first end; and wherein the second blade has a blade opening for receiving a connecting projection extending from a surface of the second connecting member. [6] The power-operated outdoor tool according to claim 1, further comprising: a column for holding the first blade and the second blade, wherein the first blade and the second blade have one or more slots; and wherein the first blade and the second blade are connected to the column by one or more fasteners extending through the one or more slots; and a multi-tool, a hex key or a tool for loosening one or more fasteners and removing the first blade and / or the second blade from the column. [7] The power-operated outdoor tool according to claim 6, wherein the one or more fastening elements comprise screws, nuts, bolts, one or more cam locking fasteners, one or more quarter-turn fasteners or a combination thereof. [8] The power-operated outdoor tool according to claim 1, wherein the crankshaft has an opening for receiving a tool for rotating the crankshaft. [9] The power-operated outdoor tool according to claim 1, wherein: the second connecting rod has a first rod segment configured to engage with the first end of the second blade, a second rod segment that engages with the crankshaft, and a hinge joint connecting the first rod segment and the second rod segment; the second rod segment is designed to pivot the hinge joint into an engagement position and a disengagement position; to lock the second rod segment, the first blade, and the second blade in the engagement position; and The first blade and the second blade can be removed in the release position. [10] The power-operated outdoor tool according to claim 1, further comprising: a housing containing the crankshaft, wherein the first connecting rod, the second connecting rod, the first blade and the second blade extend at least partially from the housing; and a side cover which is detachably connected to the housing, wherein removing the side cover from the housing exposes the crankshaft, the first connecting rod, the second connecting rod, the first blade and the second blade. [11] The power-operated outdoor tool according to claim 1, wherein: the first blade has a first opening next to the first end; the second blade has a second opening next to the first end; the first connecting rod has a first rod opening; the second connecting rod has a second rod opening; the first opening, the second opening, the first rod opening and the second rod opening are aligned; and The first opening, the second opening, the first rod opening and the second rod opening are designed to accommodate at least one removable pin for attaching the first blade and the second blade to the first connecting rod and the second connecting rod. [12] The power-operated outdoor tool according to claim 1, wherein: the first blade has a first opening next to the first end; the second blade has a second opening next to the first end, with the second opening aligned with the first opening; and The first opening and the second opening are designed to accommodate the crankshaft in a removable manner. [13] The power-operated outdoor tool according to claim 1, wherein the first blade and the second blade have a plate adjacent to the first end, the plate having one or more openings for receiving one or more fastening elements for attaching the first blade and the second blade to the crankshaft. [14] The power-operated outdoor tool according to claim 1, further comprising: a motor coupled to the crankshaft, wherein the motor is configured to rotate the crankshaft about an axis of rotation, the first direction and the second direction being transverse to the axis of rotation, wherein the first connecting rod and the second connecting rod are configured to convert the rotary motion of the crankshaft about the axis of rotation into a linear motion of the first blade and the second blade; and an electrically coupled actuator for selectively activating and deactivating the motor, wherein releasing the actuator so that the motor is deactivated moves the first blade and the second blade into a deactivation position such that the first blade extends beyond the second blade. [15] A method for operating a power-driven outdoor tool comprising: Providing a housing with an engine and a crankshaft coupled to the engine; Coupling a blade unit, which contains a first blade and a second blade, to the crankshaft; Determining the blade type of the first blade and the second blade; and Operating the motor based on the blade type. [16] The method according to claim 15, wherein operating the motor comprises moving the first blade and the second blade in a first direction and in a second direction opposite to the first direction. [17] The method according to claim 15, wherein determining the blade type comprises: Capturing the power consumed by the motor; Determining the engine speed; and Identifying the blade type based on the power consumed by the motor and the motor's rotational speed. [18] The method according to claim 15, wherein determining the blade type comprises: detecting a voltage of the blade unit. [19] The method according to claim 15, wherein determining the blade type comprises: identifying the blade type based on pull-up resistances of the blade unit, pull-down resistances of the blade unit or a combination thereof. [20] The method according to claim 15, wherein the blade unit has a high-frequency identification (RFID) tag and wherein determining the blade type comprises receiving the blade type from the RFID tag via a near-field communication (NFC) circuit.

Images