Protective device, accumulator protection element, portable working device and method at least for protecting an accumulator

Abstract

The invention relates to a protective device (10a; 10b), in particular an impact protection device, for a portable working device (12a; 12b), comprising at least one accumulator protection unit (16a; 16b) that is different from a working device housing (14a; 14b), and which is designed to protect at least one accumulator (18a; 18b) of the working device (12a; 12b) from damage, in particular impact damage, e.g. from an impact due to the working device (12a; 12b) falling, by at least partially at least laterally surrounding an accumulator mounting region (20a; 20b).

Description

[0001] Description

[0002] Protective device, battery protection element, portable working device and method for at least one protection of a battery

[0003] State of the art

[0004] Due to the fire hazard that can arise from damaged batteries, especially Li-ion batteries, the protection of batteries in everyday operation is becoming increasingly important.

[0005] Disclosure of the invention

[0006] A protective device, in particular a shock protection device, for a portable working device is proposed, comprising at least one battery protection unit which is designed differently from a working device housing and which is designed to protect at least one battery of the working device from damage, in particular impact damage, for example due to an impact as a result of a fall of the working device, by at least partially surrounding a battery mounting area at least laterally.

[0007] The design of the protective device according to the invention can advantageously increase operational safety, since in particular damage to the accumulator to be protected by the protective device is prevented.

[0008] Advantageously, a maintenance and / or cleaning interval can be extended, since in particular the lateral surrounding of the battery mounting area drastically reduces contamination of the electrical contact areas and / or the battery mounting area intended for battery mounting, for example due to dust or splashing liquids. Advantageously, safety for the user can be increased, since in particular damage to the battery, which could cause, for example, a battery fire that is dangerous for the user or the emission of substances dangerous to the user from the battery interior, is prevented. For example, it is known that even possibly unnoticed slight damage to a battery, e.g. due to a fall, can lead to the battery slowly heating up over several hours and ultimately to a battery fire.when the work tool with the battery has already been stowed away in a vehicle or building. This and the associated potentially catastrophic consequences can be advantageously avoided by the protective device. In particular, the protective device is designed to reliably protect the battery from falls from heights of at least 50 cm, preferably at least 1 m, and particularly preferably at least two meters.

[0009] Preferably, the accumulator is assigned to at least one portable working device. For example, the accumulator can be designed as a replaceable battery pack that can be mounted on one or more, in particular different, portable working devices. Preferably, the working device is intended to be operated manually by a user, at least to a large extent. Preferably, the working device is designed as a portable and / or mobile working device. Preferably, the working device is designed as a hand-held power tool and / or a gardening tool and / or a household appliance and / or a hygiene device and / or a comparable device that is intended to be operated with a rechargeable battery. For example, the portable and / or mobile hand-held power tool can be designed as a pipe wrench, a pipe pressing tool, a cordless screwdriver, an electric saw, e.g.a jigsaw, a drill, a grinder, sheet metal shears, a milling machine, a hot glue gun, a blower, a multi-function tool, a polishing machine, a planer, or a similar handheld power tool. For example, the portable and / or mobile gardening tool can be designed as a hand mower, a hedge trimmer, a grass trimmer, a tree saw, a leaf blower, a chainsaw, a scarifier, electric pruning shears, a pole pruner, an electric garden hoe, an electric brush, or a similar gardening tool. For example, the portable and / or mobile household appliance can be designed as a cleaning device, such as a vacuum cleaner, a window vacuum, a pressure washer; as a personal care device, such as a razor, a hairdryer, an electric toothbrush; as a lighting device, such as a flashlight; or as a similar household appliance.Furthermore, it is also conceivable for the device to be designed as another battery-operated portable work device from a different field of application, e.g., the medical field. The protective device is preferably arranged and / or fixed to the portable and / or mobile work device. It is also conceivable for the protective device to protect a battery on a non-portable work device that could, for example, tip over. "Portable" is understood to mean a work device that is so light that it can be transported by an adult operator without aids, in particular by carrying and / or rolling and / or pushing, and that the operation of the work device is at least largely manual.

[0010] The protective device is preferably provided at least to protect the rechargeable battery and / or the working device housing from the working device. The protective device is preferably designed as an impact protection device which serves as protection against impact and / or against contamination, in particular by dust and / or dirty water, and / or against scratching of the components to be protected. It is conceivable for the protective device to protect other components of the working device, such as a working device drive and / or an operating element of the working device and / or a display or other elements, from damage. The protective device is preferably designed in one or two parts. The protective device preferably has a U-shape.The fact that an object is intended, designed or configured for a specific function should preferably be understood to mean that the object fulfils and / or executes this specific function in at least one application and / or operating state.

[0011] Preferably, the battery protection unit is arranged at least partially in close proximity to the rechargeable battery. In particular, the close proximity of the rechargeable battery is formed by all points that are at a distance from the rechargeable battery of less than 30 cm, preferably 15 cm, advantageously 10 cm, and preferably 5 cm. Preferably, the battery protection unit is arranged at least largely parallel to a battery mounting direction, laterally next to the rechargeable battery to be protected. Preferably, the battery protection unit is intended to protect a rechargeable battery of the power tool from shock loading.Preferably, in addition to the accumulator, the battery protection unit also protects an electrical battery interface, which is provided in particular for energy transmission from the accumulator to the working device, in particular a drive of the working device and / or to a measuring unit of the working device and / or to a control and regulating unit of the working device, and / or an output unit or further electrically operated functional units of the working device.

[0012] An "impact" is understood in particular to mean a force transmission through at least brief contact between two solid bodies. The impact preferably occurs as a result of a fall from the implement onto a solid body, such as a surface, and / or a collision of the implement onto a solid body, such as a wall, and / or a solid body impacting the stationary implement, such as a stone falling onto the parked implement.

[0013] A "battery interface" is understood to mean, in particular, a contact area designed to transfer electrical energy from the battery to the work tool. In addition to electrical energy transfer, the battery interface could also be configured to transfer information such as battery temperature and / or the electrochemical health of the battery and / or the battery charge level and / or other data, in particular measurement data, via a data interface, such as a USB interface or bus system and / or a comparable interface.

[0014] “Damage” should be understood in particular as a preferably mechanical change to a component which leads to an impairment of a function and / or performance and / or service life and / or visual appearance of the component. The accumulator is preferably designed as an energy storage device, in particular an electrochemical one, which is intended to absorb electrical energy during a charging process and to deliver the electrical energy to a consumer of the work tool during operation. In particular, the accumulator is designed as a lithium-ion accumulator. It is conceivable that the accumulator is also designed as a disposable accumulator, such as a battery. The accumulator is preferably arranged on the work tool in a removable and / or replaceable manner. However, it is conceivable that the accumulator is permanently integrated into the work tool.A "battery mounting area" is understood to mean, in particular, an area filled by the fully assembled battery. The battery preferably has a battery mounting direction. Preferably, battery mounting is only possible in the battery mounting direction. A "battery mounting direction" is understood to mean, in particular, a direction intended for inserting the battery into the designated battery mounting area.

[0015] The implement housing is preferably provided to protect the components in the implement housing, in particular from dirt and / or damage. The implement housing is preferably provided to protect the user from injury, in particular from rotating and / or live and / or hot components. The implement housing is preferably provided to enable the user to grip and / or hold and / or use the implement. In particular, the battery protection unit and / or the battery mounting area can be arranged at any desired location on the implement housing. The battery protection unit and / or the battery mounting area is preferably arranged at a lower end of the implement housing. The battery protection unit and / or the battery mounting area is preferably arranged in the vicinity of a handle of the portable implement.In particular, the near area of ​​the handle of the portable work tool is formed by all points which are at a distance from the battery of less than 30 cm, preferably 15 cm, advantageously 10 cm and preferably 5 cm. In particular, the battery protection unit is designed separately from the work tool housing. In particular, the battery protection unit is mounted on the work tool housing. Preferably, the battery protection unit is provided to protect the battery from impact loads and / or from contamination, in particular from dust and / or dirty water, and / or from scratching. Preferably, the battery protection unit is arranged in close proximity to the battery to be protected. In particular, the near area of ​​the battery is formed by all points which are at a distance from the battery of less than 30 cm, preferably 15 cm, advantageously 10 cm and preferably 5 cm.

[0016] It is further proposed that the battery protection unit, in particular a first battery protection element and a second battery protection element of the battery protection unit, at least in a connection region of the battery protection unit in which the battery protection unit is connected to the work tool, encompass the work tool housing, in particular a part of the handle of the work tool housing, at least to a large extent, preferably completely, all the way around. Advantageously, a particularly stable connection can be formed since, in particular, the component load on the connection between the battery protection unit and the work tool housing is reduced when a force is applied, in particular as a result of an impact, since the force is distributed particularly well over the entire circumference of the circumferentially encompassing connection. Preferably, the first battery protection element and the second battery protection element contact the work tool housing at least substantially all the way around.Preferably, the second battery protection element is mirror-symmetrical to the first battery protection element. Preferably, the contact area of ​​at least the first battery protection element and the second battery protection element with the tool housing forms the connection area of ​​the battery protection unit. Preferably, the battery protection unit forms an insertion area for insertion of the battery, in particular aligned laterally with respect to the tool. Preferably, the walls of the battery protection unit are recessed in the insertion area, in particular flush with the tool housing and / or a battery mounting unit of the protective device. Preferably, the connection area is provided to connect the battery protection unit to the tool housing. Preferably, the connection area is additionally provided to protect a region of the tool housing facing the battery from damage.Preferably, the connection area is arranged in a vicinity of the electrical battery interface and / or the connection area. In particular, the vicinity of the battery interface is formed by all points that are less than 30 cm, preferably 15 cm, advantageously 10 cm, and preferably 5 cm, away from the battery interface. In this context, a majority is understood to mean, in particular, 60%, preferably 70%, preferably 80%, and particularly preferably 90%.

[0017] It is further proposed that the battery protection unit comprise at least the first battery protection element and at least the second battery protection element, which is formed separately from the first battery protection element. Repair costs can advantageously be reduced since, in particular in the event of an impact, only the first battery protection element and / or the second battery protection element is damaged, as a result of which only the first battery protection element and / or the second battery protection element, and particularly advantageously not the tool housing, needs to be replaced. Preferably, the first battery protection element and the second battery protection element are arranged on two different sides opposite the mounted battery. In the mounted state, the first battery protection element preferably contacts the second battery protection element in at least one contact area and preferably in at least two contact areas, in particular those arranged separately from one another.Preferably, the two separately arranged contact areas are arranged on two different sides opposite the mounted battery. Preferably, the first battery protection element and the second battery protection element completely form the battery protection unit. Preferably, the first battery protection element and / or the second battery protection element are made of an impact-resistant and / or energy-absorbing material, such as a plastic or a composite material or a metallic material. Preferably, the mounted battery protection unit is completely open at an end region facing away from the tool housing.

[0018] Additionally, it is proposed that the first battery protection element forms at least one, in particular full-surface, first battery protection jaw and / or that the second battery protection element forms a, in particular full-surface, second battery protection jaw. Advantageously, protection of the battery against damage and / or contamination can be achieved, since, in particular, the full-surface first battery protection jaw and the full-surface second battery protection jaw have a dirt-repellent and / or dirt-water-repellent effect due to their closed design. Advantageously, repairs can be carried out by the user themselves, since, in particular, the first battery protection element and / or the second battery protection element can be replaced particularly easily.Preferably, the at least first, in particular full-surface, battery protection jaw and / or the at least second, in particular full-surface, battery protection jaw are provided to shield and / or divert dirt and / or dirty water from the battery. Preferably, at least the second battery protection jaw is aligned at least substantially parallel to the first battery protection jaw. Preferably, the first battery protection element, in particular the first battery protection jaw, and the second battery protection element, in particular the second battery protection jaw, are arranged mirrored to one another. Preferably, the first battery protection jaw and the second battery protection jaw are arranged on opposite sides of the battery. Preferably, the first battery protection jaw and the second battery protection jaw are arranged on two longitudinal sides, in particular on the longest side surfaces, of the battery.The battery protection jaws are preferably arranged in a contact-free and / or non-contact manner with the rechargeable battery. The first battery protection jaw and / or the second battery protection jaw preferably protrude in the main thrust direction and / or in the assembly direction. The first battery protection jaw and the second battery protection jaw are preferably connected to one another via the first battery protection element and the second battery protection element and the connecting element and are particularly preferably designed free of further connecting elements and / or webs. In particular, the battery protection elements are free of connecting webs at least on a side facing away from the battery assembly area. The battery protection unit is preferably open, preferably completely open, on the side facing away from the battery assembly area. The at least first battery protection jaw and / or the at least second battery protection jaw are preferably made of a plastic, in particular injection-molded plastic.Preferably, the plastic material has a lower strength than the material of the tool housing. It is conceivable that the at least first battery protection jaw and / or the at least second battery protection jaw are formed from a composite material with improved material properties in terms of material strength and / or elasticity. It is conceivable that the battery protection jaws have perforations, such as small holes and / or slots.

[0019] It is further proposed that the first battery protective jaw and / or the second battery protective jaw have a main extension plane which is oriented at least substantially parallel to a most probable main impact direction and / or at least substantially perpendicular to a battery mounting direction. Advantageously, the strength of the first battery protective jaw and the second battery protective jaw can be improved since, in particular, the parallel arrangement of a longest surface of the battery protective jaw increases rigidity. A “most probable main impact direction” should be understood in particular as a force direction induced by an impact between two solid bodies, which occurs most frequently in a large number of impacts. In the event of a fall, the main impact direction is preferably significantly influenced by the position in which the work tool hits the ground.Preferably, initial contact with a surface of a component that is closest to the mounted battery is most likely, since the mounted battery is, at least in most cases, closest to the center of gravity of the tool. A "main extension plane" of a structural unit is understood to mean, in particular, a plane that is parallel to the largest side surface of a smallest imaginary cuboid that just completely encloses the structural unit, and in particular, runs through the center of the cuboid.

[0020] It is further proposed that the first battery protection element and the second battery protection element are connected to one another by at least one detachable connecting element, for example a screw. Repair costs can advantageously be reduced since, in particular in the event of an impact, only the first battery protection element and / or the second battery protection element is damaged, as a result of which only the first battery protection element and / or the second battery protection element and, particularly advantageously, not the implement housing needs to be replaced. Advantageously, in certain embodiments, this could create the option for the user to carry out repairs themselves. The strength of the implement housing is advantageously improved since, in particular, the implement housing does not have to be weakened by a hole for a screw connection.The detachable connecting element is preferably arranged in the vicinity of the connection area with the implement. In particular, the vicinity of the connection area is formed by all points that are at a distance from the connection area of ​​less than 20 cm, preferably 10 cm, advantageously 5 cm, and preferably 2 cm. The connecting element, in particular a main extension direction of the connecting element, is preferably arranged parallel to a nearest side surface of the implement housing. A "connecting element" is to be understood in particular as at least one component that connects two separately formed parts to one another in a form-fitting and / or force-fitting manner.A “main extension direction” of an object should be understood in particular as a direction that runs parallel to a longest edge of a smallest geometric cuboid that just completely encloses the object.

[0021] Furthermore, it is proposed that in one possible embodiment the battery protection unit is connected to the implement housing without any screw connections, preferably in a non-destructive manner. Repair costs can advantageously be reduced because, in particular in the event of an impact, only the first battery protection element and / or the second battery protection element is damaged, whereby only the first battery protection element and / or the second battery protection element and, particularly advantageously, not the implement housing needs to be replaced. The strength of the implement housing is advantageously improved because, in particular, the implement housing does not need to be weakened by a bore for a screw connection. Preferably, the connection, in particular between the first battery protection element and the second battery protection element, is designed as a screw connection, which is configured as a screw-in or push-through connection.It is also conceivable for the connection to be designed as a snap-in connection, which can be opened and / or closed without tools. It is conceivable for the battery protection unit to have at least one connection, in particular a screw-in connection, between the battery protection unit and the tool housing, in addition to or instead of the connection between the first battery protection element and the second battery protection element.

[0022] It is further proposed that the battery protection unit be connected, in particular exclusively, to the implement housing by means of a positive connection. Advantageously, force transmission from the battery protection unit to the implement housing can be improved because, in particular, the positive connection is designed such that it distributes the impact force over the largest possible area. Preferably, the positive connection is provided to at least substantially prevent a relative rotational movement of the battery protection unit relative to the implement housing. Preferably, the positive connection is provided to at least substantially prevent a relative movement of the battery protection unit relative to the implement housing along the most likely main impact direction.Preferably, the form-fitting connection has at least one form-fitting element on the battery protection unit and at least one corresponding form-fitting element on the implement housing.

[0023] It is additionally proposed that the battery protection unit be connected to the implement housing by means of a tongue and groove connection. Advantageously, the form-fitting connection is particularly stable, in particular because the circumferential and self-contained shape of the form-fitting connection is particularly stable. Advantageously, energy can be absorbed, in particular because the tongue and groove is elastic. Preferably, the groove is formed to extend at least partially, preferably completely, around the implement housing or around the battery protection unit. Preferably, the tongue is formed to extend at least partially, preferably completely, around the implement housing or around the battery protection unit. Preferably, the groove and the tongue are arranged so as to at least substantially contact one another. Preferably, the tongue and groove connection is provided to absorb mechanical energy, in particular impact energy.

[0024] It is also proposed that a main extension plane of a form-fitting element of the battery protection unit is designed to run obliquely relative to an expected main impact direction in order to produce the tongue and groove connection. Advantageously, the direction of force induced by the impact can be introduced particularly well into the implement housing since, in particular, the force is introduced at least partially in the circumferential direction from the groove into the tongue. Advantageously, a breaking force can be increased since, in particular, the area of ​​the groove and / or the tongue on which the impact force acts can be enlarged. In particular, the smallest angle between the main impact direction and the main extension direction of the form-fitting element of the battery protection unit in the assembled state is greater than 45°, advantageously greater than 60°, preferably greater than 75° and particularly preferably approximately 80°.In particular, the smallest angle between the battery mounting direction and the main extension direction of the form-locking element of the battery protection unit is less than 45°, advantageously less than 30°, preferably less than 15°, and particularly preferably approximately 10°. In particular, the smallest angle between a main extension plane of a battery mounting opening provided for mounting the battery and the main extension direction of the form-locking element of the battery protection unit is greater than 45°, advantageously greater than 60°, preferably greater than 75°, and particularly preferably approximately 80°. The form-locking element preferably extends around the tool housing, in particular circumferentially and in a self-contained manner, wherein the form-locking element has at least two, in particular several different, angles to the main impact direction and / or to the battery mounting direction and / or to the main extension direction of the battery mounting opening around the circumference.Preferably, the smallest angle between the main extension plane of the form-locking element and the main impact direction is intended to redirect a force acting in the main impact direction into the circumferential direction, thereby increasing the breaking force. "Oblique" is understood in particular to mean an orientation of the form-locking element to the main impact direction that is different from a parallel orientation and different from a perpendicular orientation.

[0025] Furthermore, it is proposed that the form-locking element of the battery protection unit is designed to run all the way around the battery protection unit and / or that a corresponding form-locking element of the implement housing is designed to run all the way around the implement housing. Advantageously, the form-locking connection is designed to be particularly stable, since in particular the circumferential and self-contained shape of the form-locking connection is particularly stable. Preferably, the form-locking element of the battery protection unit is designed to run all the way around the battery protection unit and is self-contained. Preferably, the corresponding form-locking element of the implement housing is designed to run all the way around the implement housing and is self-contained. Preferably, the form-locking element arranged on the battery protection unit is designed as a groove. It is conceivable that the form-locking element arranged on the battery protection unit is designed as a spring.Preferably, the positive locking element arranged on the implement housing is designed as a spring. It is conceivable that the positive locking element arranged on the implement housing is designed as a spring.

[0026] It is further proposed that the form-locking element of the battery protection unit and / or a corresponding form-locking element of the implement housing have a tapered contour. The load on the spring is advantageously reduced since, in particular, the surface area, in particular the shear surface, is increased and the stiffness, in particular the flexural stiffness of the spring, is increased. The tapered contour is preferably designed such that a thickness of the spring is smallest on the side facing the component arranged on the corresponding form-locking element. The tapered contour is preferably designed such that a thickness of the groove is greatest on the side facing away from the component arranged on the corresponding form-locking element.

[0027] It is also proposed that the battery protection unit be toothed with the tool housing. Advantageously, impact energy can be absorbed particularly well, since in particular the toothing must be slightly deformed in order to reach a block state, wherein the deformation absorbs energy. Preferably, the toothing of the battery protection unit has at least one, in particular trapezoidal, tooth and the toothing of the tool housing has at least one corresponding, in particular trapezoidal, tooth recess. Preferably, each tooth has a pronounced plateau and each tooth recess has a pronounced corresponding tooth base. Preferably, the toothing is arranged exclusively on the two opposite sides, which are arranged parallel to the battery protection jaws. However, it is conceivable for the toothing to extend over the entire circumference of the battery protection unit and / or the tool housing.The battery protection unit can additionally be secured to the tool housing with screw connections. In the exemplary embodiment with the toothing, the screw connections, in particular screw bosses, are arranged parallel to the most likely main impact direction. Each screw connection preferably has a screw boss. An elastic damping element, which is in particular designed as a rubber spacer sleeve, is preferably arranged in each screw boss. The elastic damping element is preferably intended to dampen shock loads and prevent mechanical stress on the screw connection, in particular in a blocked state. A "screw boss" is to be understood in particular as an essentially cylindrical or conical projection into which the screw used to provide the connection can be screwed.For example, screw bosses have holes into which the screws are screwed. Using the screw bosses, the required minimum length for the screw connection can be provided without having to equip the entire component with the corresponding wall thickness. This makes it possible, in particular, to arrange a damping element and / or a clamping element and / or a form-locking element and / or a screw locking element or the like in the screw boss.

[0028] Additionally, it is proposed that a toothing between the battery protection unit and the implement housing forms an energy absorption unit, which is intended to at least partially absorb energy from an impact. Advantageously, strength can be increased because, in particular, a portion of the impact energy can be absorbed, thus reducing component stress. Preferably, the teeth of the toothing on the battery protection unit, in the unloaded state, are spaced apart from the corresponding tooth recess on the implement housing. Preferably, the toothing of the battery protection unit, in the unloaded state, is arranged so as to be contactless with the corresponding tooth recess on the implement housing.Preferably, an end face of each tooth of the battery protection unit, in particular in any operating state other than a block state, is at a greater distance from a corresponding base surface of the implement housing of each tooth base than the distance between a tooth flank of each tooth and a corresponding tooth surface of each tooth base. The energy absorption unit preferably forms a damping cascade. The damping cascade is preferably formed at least from the damping elements of each of the screw bosses and the toothing. Preferably, a sequence of the damping cascade is defined by the distances between the block states of the toothing and the screw connection. Preferably, the damping element is arranged upstream of the toothing in the damping cascade. Any alternative sequence in the damping cascade, in particular a damping cascade with further damping elements, is conceivable.An “operating state” should preferably be understood as a state in which the protective device is ready for operation against a shock load and / or is in an unloaded state in which a battery can be protected, in particular against a shock, and / or shock energy can be absorbed.

[0029] It is further proposed that the battery protection unit have at least one flexible, elastic energy absorption element which is molded onto or attached to a battery protection element of the battery protection unit. Advantageously, strength can be increased because, in particular, part of the impact energy can be absorbed and the component load can thus be reduced. Preferably, the at least one flexible, elastic energy absorption element is arranged on a side of the battery protection unit facing away from the implement housing. Preferably, the elastic energy absorption element is produced from a thermoplastic elastomer, in particular using an injection molding process, which has pronounced elastic material properties. Preferably, the at least one flexible, elastic energy absorption element is integrally connected to the battery protection unit.

[0030] It is further proposed that at least one battery protection jaw of one of the battery protection elements comprises a damping and / or stiffening structure extending flatly over at least a large part of one jaw side of the battery protection jaw and integrally, preferably monolithically, formed onto the battery protection element. Resistance to damage can advantageously be improved since, in particular, the battery protection element with the stiffening structure can withstand a greater impact force and the battery protection element with the damping structure absorbs more impact energy. Preferably, the molded-on damping and / or stiffening structure is arranged on one side, in particular on an inner side, of the first battery protection jaw and the second battery protection jaw. Preferably, the damping and / or stiffening structure has a honeycomb structure, in particular a hexagonal and / or six-sided structure.It is also conceivable for the damping and / or stiffening structure to be designed as a rib-shaped, in particular molded-on, structure. Preferably, the damping and / or stiffening structure is made of the same or the same material as the battery protection jaws. It is conceivable for the damping and / or stiffening structure to be made of a different, in particular more elastically flexible, material than the battery protection jaws. The term “integral” should be understood in particular to mean at least materially connected, for example by a welding process, an adhesive process, an injection molding process and / or another process that appears appropriate to a person skilled in the art, and / or advantageously formed in one piece, for example by production from a single casting and / or by production using a single-component or multi-component injection molding process and advantageously from a single blank.

[0031] Furthermore, a battery mounting unit is proposed which forms at least the battery mounting area for mounting the battery to the work tool, wherein the battery mounting unit is designed such that the mounting of the battery is only possible with a, in particular correctly, installed battery protection element. Advantageously, safety can be increased because, in particular, operation of the work tool is not possible without the battery protection unit. Preferably, the battery mounting unit is provided to at least enable and / or simplify mounting and / or dismounting of the battery in an mounting direction. In addition, it is proposed that at least one battery mounting element of the battery mounting unit be connected integrally or monolithically to the battery protection element. Advantageously, safety can be increased because, in particular, operation of the work tool is not possible without the battery protection unit.Advantageously, assembly can be simplified since, in particular, the battery mounting element, which is connected integrally or monolithically to the battery protection element, is automatically attached and / or positioned when the battery protection elements are mounted with the implement housing and does not have to be mounted separately and, particularly advantageously, does not have to be centered and / or aligned.

[0032] It is also proposed that the battery mounting element form at least part of a guide rail for guiding an insertion or removal movement of the battery. This can advantageously increase safety, since, in particular, operation of the tool is not possible without the battery protection unit. The battery mounting unit is preferably designed as at least one guide rail, in particular as a battery rail. The guide rail preferably guides battery installation and / or limits battery movement during and / or after installation at least substantially perpendicular to an installation direction.

[0033] Furthermore, it is proposed that the battery mounting unit is formed at least to a large extent, preferably entirely, by the battery protection unit which can be detachably connected to the implement housing in a non-destructive manner. Safety is advantageously increased since, in particular, the rechargeable battery cannot be mounted and / or operated without the battery protection unit. Preferably, the battery mounting unit is connected integrally to the battery protection unit. Preferably, the battery mounting unit is formed by each of the at least two battery protection elements of the battery protection unit. A "large part" could, for example, mean with the exception of an electrical connection element, in particular a contact conductor. It is conceivable that the electrical battery interface, in particular the contact conductor, is integrated into the battery protection unit and connected to the implement via a plug connection.Alternatively, it is also conceivable for at least one electrical contact from the electrical battery interface to be integrated into the battery protection unit and / or pushed through the battery protection unit. Furthermore, a battery protection element for forming a protective device, in particular an impact protection device, is proposed. Advantageously, a service life can be extended since, in particular in the event of an impact with a solid object, such as a fall of the work tool, no damage is caused to the battery. Advantageously, the battery protection element can be replaced by the operator themselves. Preferably, one of the at least two battery protection elements and / or individual battery protection elements and / or all battery protection elements are designed separately from one another and / or can be mounted and / or are available as spare parts and can be changed and / or replaced, in particular by the operator themselves.

[0034] Furthermore, a portable tool, for example a handheld power tool, a portable gardening tool, a portable household appliance, and / or the like, is proposed with the protective device. Advantageously, the service life of the portable tool can be extended, since, in particular, a fall of the tool does not cause damage to the battery. Advantageously, a maintenance interval can be extended, since, in particular, the battery is no longer damaged in the event of an impact with a solid object, such as a fall.

[0035] In addition, a method is proposed for protecting at least one rechargeable battery of a portable working device, for example a handheld power tool, a portable gardening tool, a portable household appliance, and / or the like, in particular by means of a protective device with at least one battery protection unit designed differently from a working device housing. The rechargeable battery is protected from impact damage, for example, by an impact resulting from a fall of the working device, by at least partially or laterally shielding a battery mounting area of ​​the working device by the battery protection unit. Advantageously, the service life of the portable working device can be extended, since, in particular, a fall of the working device does not cause damage to the rechargeable battery.Advantageously, a maintenance interval can be extended since, in particular, the rechargeable battery is no longer damaged in the event of an impact with a solid body, such as a fall. The protective device according to the invention, the battery protection element according to the invention, the portable work tool according to the invention and the method according to the invention at least for protecting a rechargeable battery should not be restricted to the application and embodiment described above. In particular, the protective device according to the invention, the battery protection element according to the invention, the portable work tool according to the invention and the method according to the invention at least for protecting a rechargeable battery can have a number of individual elements, components and units as well as method steps that differs from a number stated herein in order to fulfill a function described herein.Furthermore, in the ranges of values ​​specified in this disclosure, values ​​within the stated limits shall also be deemed to be disclosed and to be usable in any way.

[0036] drawing

[0037] Further advantages will become apparent from the following description of the drawings. The drawings illustrate two exemplary embodiments of the invention. The drawings, the description, and the claims contain numerous features in combination. Those skilled in the art will also expediently consider the features individually and combine them into useful further combinations.

[0038] They show:

[0039] Fig. 1 is a schematic representation of a working device according to the invention with a protective device,

[0040] Fig. 2 is a schematic representation of the working device with the protective device,

[0041] Fig. 3a is a schematic representation of the protective device with a battery protection unit having a battery protection element,

[0042] Fig. 3b is a schematic representation of the protective device with a battery protection unit having an alternative battery protection element,

[0043] Fig. 4 is a schematic flow diagram of a method for protecting a battery, Fig. 5 is a schematic representation of an alternative embodiment of a working device with an alternative protective device,

[0044] Fig. 6 is a schematic representation of an energy absorption unit of the alternative protection device and

[0045] Fig. 7 is a schematic flow diagram of an alternative method for protecting a battery.

[0046] Description of the embodiments

[0047] Figure 1 shows part of a portable working device 12a. The portable working device 12a is designed as a portable handheld power tool. Alternatively, the working device 12a could also be designed as a portable gardening tool, a portable household appliance, a portable hygiene device, or the like. The portable working device 12a has a rechargeable battery 18a. The portable working device 12a has a protective device 10a. The protective device 10a is designed as an impact protection device. The protective device 10a is intended for mounting on the portable working device 12a. The protective device 10a has a battery protection unit 16a. The battery protection unit 16a is designed differently from a working device housing 14a. The battery protection unit 16a is configured to protect the rechargeable battery 18a of the working device 12a from damage. The damage to the rechargeable battery 18a could be in the form of impact damage.The impact damage could be caused by an impact resulting from a fall from the implement 12a. The battery protection unit 16a protects the battery 18a by laterally surrounding a battery mounting area 20a. The battery protection unit 16a additionally protects the battery 18a from scratches. The battery protection unit 16a additionally protects the battery 18a from contamination by dust and dirty water. The battery protection unit 16a protects the implement housing 14a from impact damage.

[0048] The battery protection unit 16a has a first battery protection element 22a. The battery protection unit 16a has a second battery protection element 24a. The second battery protection element 24a is formed separately from the first battery protection element 22a. The battery protection elements 22a, 24a are made of impact-resistant and / or energy-absorbing material. The material of the battery protection elements 22a, 24a has more flexible material properties than the material of the implement housing 14a. Alternatively, the battery protection elements 22a, 24a could be formed of the same material as the implement housing 14a. The battery protection unit 16a has a connecting region 26a. In the connecting region 26a, the battery protection unit 16a is connected to the implement 12a. The battery protection unit 16a completely surrounds the implement housing 14a. Alternatively, the battery protection unit 16a could only encompass the implement housing 14a to a large extent.The first battery protection element 22a and the second battery protection element 24a are connected to one another by two detachable connecting elements 36a. The connecting element 36a is designed as a screw. The connecting elements 36a are arranged so as to be completely recessed in the first battery protection element 22a and in the second battery protection element 24a. The connecting elements 36a are arranged parallel to the tool housing 14a. The battery protection unit 16a is connected to the tool housing 14a without any screw connections. The battery protection unit 16a is connected to the tool housing 14a in a non-destructively detachable manner. Alternatively, the battery protection elements 22a, 24a could be connected and / or screwed to the tool housing 14a, for example, in close proximity to the tongue and groove connection.

[0049] The first battery protection element 22a forms a first battery protection jaw 28a. The first battery protection jaw 28a is formed over the entire surface. The second battery protection element 24a forms a second battery protection jaw 30a. The second battery protection jaw 30a is formed over the entire surface. Alternatively, only the first battery protection jaw 28a or only the second battery protection jaw 30a could be formed over the entire surface. Alternatively, the first battery protection jaw 28a and / or the second battery protection jaw 30a could be formed over a large part of the entire surface. It is conceivable that the first battery protection jaw 28a and / or the second battery protection jaw 30a have perforations, such as holes and / or slots. The first battery protection jaw 28a and the second battery protection jaw 30a are mirror images of one another. The first battery protection jaw 28a and the second battery protection jaw 30a are arranged on opposite sides of the battery 18a.The first battery protection jaw 28a and the second battery protection jaw 30a are arranged parallel to a longitudinal side of the battery 18a. The first battery protection jaw 28a and the second battery protection jaw 30a are arranged so as not to contact the battery 18a. The first battery protection jaw 28a and the second battery protection jaw 30a protrude beyond the mounted battery 18a in the main thrust direction. The first battery protection jaw 28a and the second battery protection jaw 30a protrude beyond the mounted battery 18a parallel to the longitudinal direction. The battery protection jaws 28a, 30a are connected to one another via the battery protection elements 22a, 24a and / or via the connecting elements 36a. The battery protection jaws 28a, 30a are free of further connecting elements and / or webs.

[0050] The first battery protection jaw 28a has a main extension plane. The main extension plane of the first battery protection jaw 28a is aligned parallel to a most probable main thrust direction 32a. The main extension plane of the first battery protection jaw 28a is aligned parallel to a battery mounting direction 34a. The second battery protection jaw 30a has a main extension plane. The main extension plane of the second battery protection jaw 30a is aligned parallel to a most probable main thrust direction 32a. The main extension plane of the second battery protection jaw 30a is aligned parallel to the battery mounting direction 34a. The main extension direction of the first battery protection jaw 28a is arranged parallel to the main extension direction of the second battery protection jaw 30a. The battery protection unit 16a has a battery mounting opening 70a. The battery mounting opening 70a extends perpendicular to the battery mounting direction 34a.The battery mounting opening 70a is provided to enable assembly and / or disassembly of the battery 18a when the battery protection unit 16a is mounted. It is conceivable that the battery protection unit 16a has further openings 72a, for example on the side of the battery 18a facing away from the tool housing 14a and / or the side of the battery 18a facing away from the battery mounting opening 70a. It is conceivable that the further openings 72a of the battery protection unit 16a extend only partially over the side surfaces of the battery protection unit 16a associated with the opening. The battery protection unit 16a has four flexible, elastic energy absorption elements 46a. The battery protection unit 16a could also have a number of flexible, elastic energy absorption elements 46a that differs from four. The flexible elastic energy absorption elements 46a are formed or attached to the battery protection element 22a, 24a of the battery protection unit 16a.The energy absorption elements 46a are integrally formed on the battery protection elements 22a, 24a using a multi-component injection molding process. Each of the four energy absorption elements 46a has a material thickness of at least 4 mm. The battery protection unit 16a has four corners 64a. The corners 64a are arranged on a side 66a of the battery protection unit 16a facing away from the implement housing 14a. A flexible, elastic energy absorption element 46a is integrally formed or attached to each of the corners 64a. The flexible, elastic energy absorption elements 46a are made of a thermoplastic elastomer. The flexible, elastic energy absorption elements 46a have a pronounced elastic material property. The energy absorption elements 46a are intended to partially absorb impact energy.

[0051] Figure 2 shows the protective device 10a in a side view. The battery protection unit 16a is connected to the implement housing 14a by means of a positive connection 60a. The battery protection unit 16a is connected to the implement housing 14a by means of a tongue and groove connection 62a. The battery protection unit 16a has a positive connection element 38a. In the assembled state, the positive connection element 38a of the battery protection unit 16a points towards the implement housing 14a. The positive connection element 38a of the battery protection unit 16a has a main extension plane for establishing the tongue and groove connection 62a. The main extension plane is designed to run obliquely relative to the expected main impact direction 32a.

[0052] Figure 3a shows a representation of the working device 12a with the battery protection element 24a. The form-locking element 38a of the battery protection unit 16a is designed to extend all the way around the battery protection unit 16a. The form-locking element 38a is formed by the first battery protection element (not shown) and the second battery protection element 24a. In the assembled state, the first battery protection element (not shown) and the second battery protection element 24a are arranged relative to one another such that the form-locking element 38a is formed to extend seamlessly and endlessly. The working device housing 14a has a form-locking element 40a corresponding to the form-locking element 38a. The corresponding form-locking element 40a of the working device housing 14a is designed to extend all the way around the working device housing 14a. The form-locking element 38a of the battery protection unit 16a has a tapered contour 68a. The corresponding form-locking element 40a of the working device housing 14a has a tapered contour.The form-locking element 38a is tapered in the direction of the corresponding form-locking element 40a. The corresponding form-locking element 40a is tapered in the direction of the form-locking element 38a. A side of the form-locking element 38a and the corresponding form-locking element 40a facing the rechargeable battery 18a is aligned parallel to the battery mounting direction 34a. A side of the form-locking element 38a and the corresponding form-locking element 40a facing away from the rechargeable battery 18a is at an angle to the battery mounting direction 34a.

[0053] The battery protection jaws 28a, 30a of the battery protection elements 22a, 24a extend flatly over a large portion of a jaw side 58a of the battery protection jaw 28a, 30a. The battery protection jaw 28a, 30a comprises a damping structure 48a. The damping structure 48a is integrally or monolithically formed onto the battery protection element 22a, 24a. The damping structure 48a is arranged on a jaw side 58a facing the battery 18a. Alternatively, the damping structure 48a could be arranged on a jaw side 58'a facing away from the battery 18a or on both jaw sides 58a, 58'a. The battery protection jaw 28a, 30a comprises a stiffening structure 50a. The stiffening structure 50a is integrally or monolithically formed onto the battery protection element 22a, 24a. The stiffening structure 50a is arranged on a cheek side 58a facing the battery 18a.Alternatively, the stiffening structure 50a could be arranged on a jaw side 58'a facing away from the battery 18a or on both jaw sides 58a, 58'a. The damping structure 48a and the stiffening structure 50a are formed from the material of the battery protection jaws 28a, 30a. Alternatively, the damping structure 48a and / or the stiffening structure 50a could be formed from a different material than the battery protection jaws 28a, 30a. The protective device 10a has a battery mounting unit 52a. The battery mounting unit 52a forms the battery mounting area 20a for mounting the battery 18a to the working device 12a. The battery mounting unit 52a is designed such that the mounting of the battery 18a is only possible with a properly installed battery protection element 22a, 24a. The battery mounting unit 52a has two battery mounting elements 54a, 54'a.The battery mounting element 54a, 54'a of the battery mounting unit 52a is connected integrally or monolithically to the battery protection element 22a, 24a. The battery mounting element 54a, 54'a forms part of a guide rail 56a. Alternatively, the battery mounting unit 52a could be formed entirely or partially by the tool housing 14a (see Figure 3b). The guide rail 56a is designed to guide an insertion or removal movement of the battery 18a. The guide rail 56a is aligned parallel to the battery mounting direction 34a. The guide rail 56a is provided for fixing the battery 18a perpendicular to the battery mounting direction 34a. The guide rail 56a has an insertion bevel in the battery mounting direction 34a. The insertion bevel is designed to simplify battery installation.The battery mounting unit 52a is largely formed by the battery protection unit 16a, which can be non-destructively and detachably connected to the implement housing 14a. Alternatively, the battery mounting unit 52a could be formed entirely by the battery protection unit 16a, which can be non-destructively and detachably connected to the implement housing 14a. The battery mounting unit 52a is provided for positioning the battery 18a relative to an electrical connection element 74a of the implement 12a. The battery mounting unit 52a is provided for connecting the battery 18a to an electrical connection element 74a of the implement 12a. The battery mounting unit 52a has a closure element 76a. The closure element 76a is provided for positively securing the battery 18a in the battery mounting area 20a. Alternatively, the closure element 76a could be arranged on the implement housing 14a. The closure element 76a is designed as a locking recess.The locking recess is provided to establish a positive connection with a corresponding locking element. Figure 4 shows a schematic flow diagram of a method for protecting a rechargeable battery 18a of a portable power tool 12a, for example, a handheld power tool, a portable gardening tool, a portable household appliance, and / or the like, by means of a protective device 10a.

[0054] In a method step 90a, a rechargeable battery 18a is protected from impact loading by a battery protection unit 16a, which is designed differently from a working device housing 14a. The rechargeable battery 18a is protected from impact loading and / or impact damage by partially laterally shielding a battery mounting area 20a of the working device 12a by the battery protection unit 16a. The rechargeable battery 18a is protected from impact damage, for example, by an impact resulting from a fall of the working device 12a and / or by the working device 12a striking a wall.

[0055] In a further method step 92a, the implement housing 14a is protected from the impact load by the battery protection unit 16a. The implement housing 14a is protected from impact damage by the battery protection unit 16a being designed such that it is destroyed by a mechanical impact load before the implement housing is damaged.

[0056] In a further method step 94a, the working device 12a and / or the accumulator 18a are protected from the impact load by four energy absorption elements 46a, which absorb the impact energy during the impact.

[0057] In a further method step 96a, the working device 12a and / or the accumulator 18a are protected during the impact load by a damping structure 48a arranged on each inner jaw side 58a, which absorbs impact energy during the impact.

[0058] In a further method step 98a, the accumulator 18a is additionally protected from contamination and / or dirty water.

[0059] Figures 5 to 7 show a further embodiment of the invention. The following descriptions and the drawings are essentially limited to the differences between the embodiments, whereby with regard to components with the same designation, in particular with regard to components with the same reference numerals, reference can in principle also be made to the drawings and / or the description of the other embodiments, in particular Figures 1 to 4. To distinguish the embodiments, the letter a is placed after the reference numerals of the embodiment in Figures 1 to 4. In the embodiment of Figures 5 to 7, the letter a is replaced by the letter b.

[0060] Figure 5 shows a schematic representation of a protective device 10b in a view from below. The protective device 10b has a battery protection unit 16b. The battery protection unit 16b has a toothing 42b with the tool housing 14b. The toothing 42b between the battery protection unit 16b and the tool housing 14b forms an energy absorption unit 44b. The energy absorption unit 44b is intended to at least partially absorb the energy from an impact. The battery protection unit 16b is screwed to the tool housing 14b via four screws 102b.

[0061] Figure 6 shows a schematic representation of the toothing 42b in a side view. The toothing 42b has trapezoidal teeth 78b on the battery protection unit 16b. The toothing 42b has trapezoidal tooth recesses 80b on the implement housing 14b, corresponding to the trapezoidal teeth 78b of the battery protection unit 16b. Each tooth 78b has a pronounced, plateau-shaped base surface 82b. Each tooth recess 80b has a pronounced, corresponding tooth base surface 86b. The toothing 42b is arranged on two sides arranged parallel to the battery protection jaws 28b, 30b. Alternatively, the toothing 42b could also be arranged circumferentially between the battery protection unit 16b and the implement housing 14b. The teeth 78b and the tooth recess 80b of the toothing 42b are arranged next to one another perpendicular to the main impact direction, wherein the toothing 42b is provided to absorb a force in the main impact direction.Alternatively, the teeth 78b and the tooth recess 80b of the toothing 42b could be arranged next to one another parallel to the main impact direction, wherein the alternative arrangement of the toothing 42b could be intended to absorb a force perpendicular to the main impact direction. The first battery protection element 22b is fastened to the implement housing 14b with two screws 102b. The second battery protection element 24b is fastened to the implement housing 14b with two screws 102b. Each screw 102b is arranged parallel to the most likely main impact direction 32b. Each screw 102b has a screw boss 112b. A damping element 114b is arranged in each screw boss 112b. The damping element 114b is designed as a rubber spacer sleeve. The rubber spacer sleeve is made of an elastic material, such as rubber or elastomer. Alternatively, the damping element 114b could also be designed as a metallic spring element.It is also conceivable for the damping element 114b to be formed as a shape memory alloy. The damping element 114b is intended to dampen shock loads. The screw boss 112b is intended to prevent a locking state and thus shock loads on the screw connection. The energy absorption unit 44b forms a damping cascade. The damping cascade consists of the damping elements 114b of the screw 102b and the toothing 42b. The damping elements 114b are arranged in front of the toothing 42b in the damping cascade.

[0062] The teeth 78b and the corresponding tooth recess 80b are arranged spaced apart from one another in the unloaded state. The teeth 78b and the corresponding tooth recess 80b are arranged without contact with one another in the unloaded state. The teeth 78b each have two tooth flanks 84b, 84'b. The corresponding tooth recess 80b has tooth base flanks 88b, 88'b corresponding to the tooth flanks 84b, 84'b. In any state other than a block state, the toothing 42b has a shortest distance 108b between the base surface 82b and the corresponding tooth base surface 86b, which is greater than the shortest distance 106b between each of the two tooth flanks 84b, 84'b and the corresponding tooth base flank 88b, 88'b. The battery protection unit 16b and the tool housing 14b have a shortest distance 104b in a region of the screw dome 112b. The shortest distance 104b is greater than the shortest distance 108b.The shortest distance 104b is greater than the shortest distance 106b. Figure 7 shows a schematic flow diagram of a method for protecting a rechargeable battery 18b of a portable power tool 12b, for example a handheld power tool, a portable gardening tool, a portable household appliance, and / or the like, by means of a protective device 10b.

[0063] In a method step 90b, a rechargeable battery 18b is protected from impact loading by a battery protection unit 16b, which is designed differently from a working device housing 14b. The rechargeable battery 18b is protected from impact damage by the battery protection unit 16b partially laterally shielding a battery mounting area 20b of the working device 12b. The rechargeable battery 18b is protected from impact damage, for example, by an impact resulting from a fall of the working device 12b and / or by the working device 12b striking a wall.

[0064] In a further method step 92b, the implement housing 14b is protected from the impact load by the battery protection unit 16b. The implement housing 14b is protected from impact damage by the battery protection unit 16b being designed such that it is destroyed by a mechanical impact load before the implement housing 14b is damaged.

[0065] In a further method step 94b, the working device 12b and / or the accumulator 18b is protected from the impact load by four energy absorption elements 46b, which absorb the impact energy during the impact.

[0066] In a further method step 96b, the working device 12b and / or the accumulator 18b are protected during the impact load by a damping structure 48b arranged on each inner jaw side 58b, which absorbs impact energy during the impact.

[0067] In a further method step 98b, the accumulator 18b is additionally protected from contamination and / or dirty water.

[0068] In a further method step 100b, the working device 12b and / or the accumulator 18b are protected from the impact load by an energy absorption unit 44b, which absorbs the impact energy during the impact. The energy absorption unit 44b is formed by a damping cascade. In the damping cascade, the impact energy is first dampened by the damping elements 114b in the screw connection. The impact load is dampened by the damping elements 114b until the teeth 78b and the tooth recess 80b of the toothing 42b make contact. The impact energy is then absorbed by the toothing 42b. During the impact load, the tooth flanks 84b and the corresponding tooth base flanks 88b are pressed against one another, thereby achieving energy absorption by the energy absorption unit. If the impact force is so great that the base surface 82b of the teeth 78b collides with the corresponding tooth base flanks 88b, then a block state is reached.In the block state, no further impact energy is absorbed in addition to the elastic and / or plastic material deformation.

Claims

Claims 1. A protective device (10a; 10b), in particular a shock protection device, for a portable working device (12a; 12b), with at least one battery protection unit (16a; 16b) which is designed differently from a working device housing (14a; 14b) and which is designed to protect at least one battery (18a; 18b) of the working device (12a; 12b) from damage, in particular impact damage, for example due to an impact as a result of a fall of the working device (12a; 12b), by at least partially surrounding a battery mounting area (20a; 20b) at least laterally.

2. Protection device (10a; 10b) according to claim 1, characterized in that the battery protection unit (16a; 16b), in particular a first battery protection element (22a; 22b) and a second battery protection element (24a; 24b) of the battery protection unit (16a; 16b), at least in a connecting region (26a; 26b) of the battery protection unit (16a; 16b) in which the battery protection unit (16a; 16b) is connected to the working device (12a; 12b), surrounds the working device housing (14a; 14b) at least to a large extent, preferably completely.

3. Protection device (10a; 10b) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the battery protection unit (16a; 16b) comprises at least one first battery protection element (22a; 22b) and at least one second battery protection element (24a; 24b) which is formed separately from the first battery protection element (22a; 22b).

4. Protection device (10a; 10b) according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that the first battery protection element (22a; 22b) forms at least one, in particular full-surface, first battery protection jaw (28a; 28b) and / or that the second battery protection element (24a; 24b) forms a, in particular full-surface, second battery protection jaw (30a; 30b). The protective device (10a; 10b) according to claim 4, characterized in that the first battery protection jaw (28a; 28b) and / or the second battery protection jaw (30a; 30b) has a main extension plane that is oriented at least substantially parallel to a most probable main impact direction (32a; 32b) and / or at least substantially perpendicular to a battery mounting direction (34a; 34b). The protective device (10a; 10b) according to one of claims 3 to 5, characterized in that the first battery protection element (22a; 22b) and the second battery protection element (24a; 24b) are connected to one another by at least one detachable connecting element (36a; 36b), for example a screw. Protective device (10a; 10b) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the battery protection unit (16a; 16b) is connected to the working device housing (14a; 14b) free of screw connections, preferably detachably without destruction, with the working device housing (14a; 14b.Protective device (10a; 10b) according to one of the preceding claims, in particular according to claim 7, characterized in that the battery protection unit (16a; 16b) is connected to the implement housing (14a; 14b) by means of a positive connection (60a; 60b). Protective device (10a) according to one of the preceding claims, in particular according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that the battery protection unit (16a) is connected to the implement housing (14a) by means of a tongue and groove connection (62a). Protective device (10a) according to claim 9, characterized in that a main extension plane of a positive connection element (38a) of the battery protection unit (16a) is designed to run obliquely relative to an expected main impact direction (32a) in order to produce the tongue and groove connection (62a).

11. Protection device (10a) according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that the form-fitting element (38a) of the battery protection unit (16a) is designed to run all the way around the battery protection unit (16a) and / or that a corresponding form-fitting element (40a) of the working device housing (14a) is designed to run all the way around the working device housing (14a).

12. Protection device (10a) according to one of claims 9 to 11, characterized in that the form-fitting element (38a) of the battery protection unit (16a) and / or a corresponding form-fitting element (40a) of the working device housing (14a) has a tapered contour (68a).

13. Protection device (10b) according to claim 8, characterized in that the battery protection unit (16b) is toothed with the working device housing (14b).

14. Protection device (10b) according to claim 13, characterized in that a toothing (42b) between the battery protection unit (16b) and the working device housing (14b) forms an energy absorption unit (44b) which is intended to at least partially absorb energy from an impact.

15. Protection device (10b) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the battery protection unit (16b) has at least one flexible elastic energy absorption element (46b) which is formed or fastened to a battery protection element (22b; 24b) of the battery protection unit (16b).

16. Protection device (10a; 10b) at least according to claim 4, characterized in that at least one battery protection jaw (28a; 28b; 30a; 30b) of one of the battery protection elements (22a; 22b; 24a; 24b) has a surface extending over at least a large part of a jaw side of the battery protection jaw (28a; 28b; 30a; 30b) and integrally, preferably monolithically, the battery protection element (22a; 22b; 24a; 24b) comprises a damping structure (48a; 48b) and / or a stiffening structure (50a; 50b) formed integrally. The protective device (10a; 10b) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a battery mounting unit (52a; 52b) which forms at least the battery mounting area (20a; 20b) for mounting the battery (18a; 18b) to the working device (12a; 12b), wherein the battery mounting unit (52a; 52b) is configured such that the mounting of the battery (18a; 18b) is only possible with a, in particular properly, installed battery protection element (22a; 22b; 24a; 24b). Protective device (10a; 10b) according to claim 17, characterized in that at least one battery mounting element (54a; 54b) of the battery mounting unit (52a; 52b) is connected integrally or monolithically to the battery protection element (22a; 22b; 24a; 24b).Protective device (10a; 10b) according to claim 18, characterized in that the battery mounting element (54a; 54b) forms at least part of a guide rail (56a; 56b) for guiding an insertion or removal movement of the battery (18a; 18b). Protective device (10a; 10b) according to one of claims 17 to 19, characterized in that the battery mounting unit (52a; 52b) is formed at least to a large extent, preferably completely, by the battery protection unit (16a; 16b) that can be detachably connected to the tool housing (14a; 14b) in a non-destructive manner. Battery protection element (22; 22b; 24a; 24b) for forming a protective device (10a; 10b), in particular a shock protection device, according to one of the preceding claims. Portable working device (12a; 12b), for example a hand-held power tool, a portable gardening tool, a portable household appliance and / or the like, comprising the protective device (10a; 10b) according to one of claims 1 to 20. Method for protecting at least one rechargeable battery (18a; 18b) of a portable working device (12a; 12b), for example a hand-held power tool, a portable gardening device, a portable household appliance and / or the like, in particular by means of a protective device (10a; 10b) according to one of claims 1 to 20, with at least one rechargeable battery protection unit (16a; 16b) designed differently from a working device housing (14a; 14b), wherein the rechargeable battery (18a; 18b) is protected from impact damage, for example by an impact as a result of a fall of the working device (12a; 12b), by at least partially at least laterally shielding a rechargeable battery mounting area (20a; 20b) of the working device (12a; 12b) by the battery protection unit (16a; 16b).

Images