Token for plugging into a rechargeable battery block of a handheld device in a rail-guided, interlocking, and friction-fitting manner

Abstract

The invention relates to a token (100) for plugging into a rechargeable battery block (142) of a handheld device (102). The token (100) has a communication device (118) for providing a communication functionality when the token (100) is removably plugged into a token receiving area (152) of the rechargeable battery block (142), and a housing body (101) for interlockingly and friction-fittingly plugging into the token receiving area (152), lateral guide rails (105) on opposite long sides of the housing body (101) being designed for a guided movement into the rechargeable battery block (142).

Description

[0001] Token for rail-guided, form-locking and friction-locked insertion into the battery block for a handheld device

[0002] The invention relates to a token for insertion into a battery block of a power tool, an arrangement and a method.

[0003] Conventional handheld devices are controlled directly by the user. For example, a drill is controlled by inserting a suitable drill bit into the device and then pressing a button on the drill. If a user without specialized knowledge performs a delicate task using such a handheld device, incorrect operation, undesirable results, and a risk to operational safety can occur.

[0004] DE 10258900 A1 discloses a cordless screwdriver for tightening screw components, comprising a screwdriver motor that is supplied with electrical voltage by a self-contained power supply arranged on the cordless screwdriver, at least three measuring devices provided for monitoring screwing parameters during the screwing-in process, namely a torque sensor with which the tightening torque generated by the screwdriver motor can be measured, a rotation angle sensor with which, starting from a predetermined measuring position, the current screwing-in angle can be measured, and a current sensor with which the drive current of the screwdriver motor can be measured. Furthermore, monitoring electronics are provided which shuts off the screwdriver motor when the tightening torque, the screwing-in angle, and the drive current are each within a predetermined, assigned target parameter window.

[0005] Conventional handheld devices reach their limits, particularly when performing difficult or unusual processing tasks using a handheld device. It is an object of the present invention to enable the operation of a handheld device in a simple, safe, and error-resistant manner.

[0006] This object is achieved by the subject matter having the features according to the independent patent claims. Further embodiments are shown in the dependent claims.

[0007] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a token is provided for insertion into a battery block of a power tool, wherein the token has a communication device for providing a communication functionality when the token is removably inserted into a token receptacle of the battery block, and a housing body for positive and frictional insertion into the token receptacle, wherein lateral guide rails are formed on opposite longitudinal sides of the housing body for guided insertion into the battery block.

[0008] According to a further exemplary embodiment of the present invention, an arrangement is provided which comprises a battery pack for a tradesman's device and a token having the features described above, wherein the token is removably inserted or pluggable into a token receptacle of the battery pack, so that by plugging in a communication functionality for the battery pack and / or the tradesman's device can be provided by means of the communication device of the token, and a positive and frictional connection can be formed between the battery pack and the housing body of the token by the lateral guide rails on the opposite longitudinal sides of the housing body being guided along a positive counter-structure in the battery pack.

[0009] According to a further embodiment of the invention, a method is provided which comprises removably inserting a token into a token receptacle of a battery pack of a tradesman's device, providing a communication functionality for the battery pack and / or the tradesman's device by means of a communication device of the token by inserting the token into the token receptacle of the battery pack, and forming a positive and frictional connection between the battery pack and a housing body of the token by inserting the token into the token receptacle of the battery pack, whereby lateral guide rails on opposite longitudinal sides of the housing body are guided along a positive counter-structure in the battery pack.

[0010] In the context of the present application, a "token" can be understood in particular as an identification tag that can establish a functional link between the token and a battery pack and / or a tradesman's tool. Such an identification tag can be used in a coupled system that can comprise the token, a tradesman's tool mechanically linked to it, and optionally one or more devices or nodes. In particular, a token can be a hardware component for providing a communication functionality. It is also possible for a token to be used to identify and / or authenticate a user to whom the token can be assigned. A token can be an electronic token and, for example, provide a processor-related control, monitoring, and / or communication function.

[0011] In the context of the present application, a "battery pack" can be understood in particular as an electrical energy supply device that can supply a power tool coupled to the battery pack (for example, an electrical hand-held device such as a drill) and / or a token coupled to the battery pack with electrical energy. For this purpose, a battery pack can have one battery cell or a plurality of battery cells. The battery pack can preferably be rechargeable, i.e., for example, it can be recharged after being discharged by connecting it to a power grid.

[0012] In the context of the present application, a "crafts tool" can be understood in particular as a device used by a craftsperson or another user during a craft activity. This can in particular be an electrical handheld device (such as a cordless screwdriver), a tool (for example, a hammer, pliers, a file, a screwdriver, or a drill) or a tool set with multiple tools or tool elements (for example, a drill bit box with drill bits or a bit box with bits), a storage system (for example, a tool case), a consumable (for example, a bolt anchor or a box of screws), and / or a vehicle (for example, a motor vehicle in which a craftsperson can transport their equipment to a job site, a forklift truck, or a tool cart) and / or other craft equipment (for example, a ladder).A power tool can also be a battery pack or an adapter between a battery pack and a processing device (e.g., a drill module of a drill). For example, a token can be inserted into such a battery pack or adapter.

[0013] In the context of the present application, a "handheld device" can be understood in particular as a portable device that can be manually operated and carried by a user and with which a craft task can be performed, for example, the processing of a substrate. The handheld device can advantageously be an electric handheld device that can be operated by means of an electrically generated drive force. Such an electric handheld device can be controlled by means of electrical control signals - in particular provided directly or indirectly by means of a token. In particular, by means of a handheld device and by applying a drive force in the form of a longitudinal force and / or a torque, a hole can be drilled in a substrate and / or a drive force in the form of a longitudinal force and / or a torque can be applied to a fastening element to be inserted into a substrate.For example, the handheld device can be designed to drive a processing device, and thus a drill and / or a fastener, in rotation. Examples of electric or motor-driven handheld devices include a cordless screwdriver, a cordless drill driver, a rotary screwdriver, an impulse screwdriver, a ratchet screwdriver, a drill, an impact wrench (in particular a cordless impact wrench), and a hammer drill.

[0014] In the context of the present application, a "communication device" can be understood in particular as a device of the token that enables communication, in particular wireless communication, of the token with a communication partner device. The communication partner device can be, for example, a battery pack coupled to the token, a tradesman's device coupled to the token directly or via a battery pack, or another device coupled (for example, via a communication network) in a communicative manner (for example, a user terminal with an app installed on it).Such a communication device can, for example, include at least one communication antenna (in particular a transmitting and / or receiving antenna) and an associated processor resource of a processor, which enable, for example, wireless communication according to a communication protocol of the communication network with one or more other nodes of such a communication network. Alternatively, the communication functionality can also be provided by means of the token independently of a communication network through direct communication with a communication partner device. In this way, the token can communicate unidirectionally or bidirectionally with one or more other nodes, for example to download and / or upload information.For example, a download of information from a communicatively coupled node to the token can include a download of a processing control sequence for a processing task to be performed by a user using a tradesman's device that is mechanically coupled to the token. For example, an upload of information from the token to a communicatively coupled node can include an upload of tracking data that enables tracking of the operation of the token and / or a tradesman's device coupled to it for documentation and / or quality control purposes. Operating data that documents the completion of a processing task by a handheld device coupled to the token can also be uploaded from the token to a communicatively coupled node. An upload or download can provide associated communication functionality.In particular, the communication device can be embodied as a single connectivity module. However, the functionality of the communication device, in particular the provision of a wireless connection or communication, can alternatively be realized by several interacting components. For example, discrete components in the form of a microcontroller, a radio transmitter, and an antenna can be combined into a communication device using one or more circuits.

[0015] In the context of the present application, a "token receptacle" can be understood in particular as a defined, delimited receiving space in a battery block, which is shaped and dimensioned to receive an associated token and is functionally configured to interact with a received token. On the one hand, the token receptacle can be shaped and dimensioned such that a token can be received therein in a form-fitting and friction-locking manner. On the other hand, the token receptacle can be functionally configured such that, when a token is received in the token receptacle as intended, an electrical connection, a data exchange connection and / or a power supply connection is readily formed between the token and the battery block.

[0016] In the context of the present application, a "housing body" can be understood in particular as a component that at least partially defines the outer contour of the token. The housing body can be formed in one piece or in multiple pieces, for example, as a base part and cover. The housing body can accommodate the communication device (and optionally other components) within its interior and protect them mechanically and / or electrically from the environment. The housing body can be designed to allow external access to electrical contacts of the token.

[0017] In the context of the present application, "positive and frictional insertion" can be understood in particular as an insertion of the token into the token receptacle in such a way that a positive and frictional connection is readily formed between the token and the battery block, so that the token is held on the battery block at a defined position and in a defined orientation, as well as firmly and securely inside the token receptacle. Furthermore, the token and battery block can be configured such that the positive and frictional insertion not only effects a predefined, releasable mechanical holding of the token on the battery block, but also simultaneously forms an electrically conductive connection, a power supply connection, and / or a data transmission connection between the token and the battery block.A positive connection between the housing body and the token holder can be achieved by a corresponding structural design, which blocks the relative movement of the housing body and the battery pack, with the exception of movement in the insertion or withdrawal direction. In particular, the positive connection can be achieved by interlocking, optionally with an undercut, the housing body and the token holder of the battery pack. An additional frictional connection between the housing body and the token holder can be generated by applying a normal force or at least a normal force component to the surfaces of the housing body and the token holder of the battery pack to be joined, thereby inhibiting their mutual displacement.

[0018] In the context of the present application, "lateral guide rails on opposite longitudinal sides of the housing body" can be understood to mean, in particular, elongated and at least partially rectilinear mechanical structures on the housing body, which can interact with corresponding mechanical counterstructures on the token holder of the battery pack in such a way that insertion of the token into and removal of the token from the token holder is mechanically permitted only along a predetermined guide direction and is otherwise mechanically impossible. The said guide rails are preferably formed on two opposite side surfaces of the token that are oriented vertically during insertion. Alternatively or additionally, guide rails can also be formed on two opposite main surfaces of the token that are oriented horizontally during insertion. Vertical end surfaces of the housing body can be free of guide rails.Lateral guide rails can therefore be understood as guide rails that are formed on an outer surface of the housing body, but not on its outer and inner end faces in the assembled state. In particular, guide rails can be formed by forming groove-like recesses and / or elongated projections in a (preferably flat) outer surface of the housing body.

[0019] According to one embodiment of the invention, a token is provided that can be reversibly inserted into a corresponding token receptacle of a battery pack. Advantageously, simply inserting the token can provide communication functionality for the battery pack or a connected power tool via a communication device of the token. Removing the token deactivates the communication functionality. At the same time, a reliable positive and frictional connection between the battery pack and the token housing body can be achieved simply by inserting the token. Removing the token can break said connection.

[0020] Advantageously, lateral guide rails on opposite longitudinal sides of the housing body can be guided along a form-fitting counterstructure in the battery pack. This configuration creates a user-friendly and error-resistant connection between the token and the battery pack. The strength achieved by the combined form and friction fit allows the connection between the token and the battery pack to be reliably maintained even when a power tool (e.g., a hammer drill) coupled to the battery pack is exposed to harsh operating conditions.

[0021] Additional exemplary embodiments of the token, the arrangement and the method are described below.

[0022] According to an exemplary embodiment, the lateral guide rails can be formed by inwardly recessed guide grooves in the opposing longitudinal sides of the housing body. Guide grooves can be understood, in particular, as elongated, groove-shaped recesses. If the guide rails are formed by guide grooves, protrusions susceptible to damage, such as pins or the like, can be avoided. If the token is handled by a user outside the battery pack, the risk of damage to the token can be reduced by avoiding pronounced protrusions.

[0023] According to an exemplary embodiment, the lateral guide rails on at least one of the opposing longitudinal sides of the housing body can have at least one locking element for forming a locking connection between the token and the battery pack. In this way, when the token has reached a predetermined target position in the token holder, locking between the token and the battery pack can be achieved. For example, protruding locking lugs on the side surfaces of the token can be provided as at least one locking element, which can interact, for example, with corresponding locking recesses inside the token holder (or vice versa).

[0024] According to an exemplary embodiment, the lateral guide rails on at least one of the opposing longitudinal sides of the housing body can have at least one centering aid for centering the token in the battery pack. Such a centering aid can be formed, for example, by means of mechanical structures on the side surfaces of the token and ensure correct positioning of the token relative to the battery pack. In this way, the centering aid can also contribute to the reliable and well-defined formation of an electrical connection and / or a power supply connection through the mechanical insertion of the token into the token receptacle.

[0025] According to an exemplary embodiment, the housing body can have a removal aid for removing the token from the battery block on a front side that is accessible from the outside when the token is inserted into the battery block. Such a removal aid can in particular be a pull-out removal filament, further in particular a removal filament arranged at least partially in a removal groove in the front side. The positive and frictional connection between the token and the battery block ensures that the token is reliably held in the battery block, which is particularly advantageous when operating an associated power tool under harsh operating conditions. On the other hand, the high connection force between the token and the token holder can make it challenging for a user to remove a token from the token holder.This problem is exacerbated by the fact that a token can advantageously be used in a small size, which can make its handling by a user tricky. It is therefore highly advantageous to attach a removal aid to an outer end face of the token, which remains accessible to a user from the outside when inserted, which allows a user to easily remove the token from the token holder by simply exerting a pulling force. Such a removal aid can be particularly advantageously implemented by means of a removal filament, for example designed as a removal wire with both ends attached to said end face. In particular, such a removal filament can be designed as a U-shaped loop that is attached to the end face at two ends and enables a user to grip and pull it out between the attachment points.Such a U-shaped loop also allows the token to be pried out using a screwdriver or other elongated tool, if necessary. If such a removal filament is provided in a removal recess in the housing body, the user can handle the removal filament particularly easily and conveniently.

[0026] According to an exemplary embodiment, the housing body can have electrical contacts for forming an electrical coupling between the token and the battery pack on an end face that is inaccessible from the outside when the token is inserted into the battery pack, in particular only on said end face. Thus, the electrical contacts can be provided on an end face of the inserted token inside the battery pack and can thereby be connected to mating contacts of the battery pack by forming the plug connection between the token and the battery pack. A user can thus be advantageously protected from live contacts by positioning them inside the battery pack. At the same time, the external contacts are protected from environmental influences, such as moisture.

[0027] According to an exemplary embodiment, the token can have electrical contacts for forming an electrical coupling between the token and the battery pack, wherein the electrical contacts are protected from moisture by a moisture protection device. When handling the token, it can be exposed to electrically conductive and / or corrosive media, such as ambient moisture. This can damage the contacts or cause dangerous operating conditions. By not forming the electrical contacts directly exposed according to the described exemplary embodiment, but rather protecting them from moisture by a moisture protection device while still remaining accessible for forming electrical connections, the service life of the token can be increased and operational reliability can be improved.The moisture protection device can clearly ensure a media-tight connection while still enabling a reliable electrically conductive connection with mating contacts. For example, the moisture protection device can be designed as a connector sealed by electrically insulating lips (e.g., elastomer lips) or as water-protected contacts (e.g., formed by hydrophobic water-displacing elements).

[0028] According to an exemplary embodiment, the housing body can have an internally connected stop on a front side accessible from the outside when the token is inserted into the battery pack. This stop can be configured, for example, as a mechanical projection on the token that strikes a corresponding limiting structure on the battery pack when a maximum depth or a target position is reached. This prevents the token from being inserted excessively deeply into the battery pack, protecting against damage and ensuring the token's retrievability.

[0029] According to an exemplary embodiment, the housing body can have beveled edges adjacent to a front side that is inaccessible from the outside when the token is inserted into the battery pack. Structures can thus be formed on the inner front surface of the inserted token that promote the token's movement into a lateral target position or target orientation and can interact with counterstructures of the battery pack for this purpose. This further improves the token's fault tolerance during operation.

[0030] According to an exemplary embodiment, a communication antenna of the communication device can be arranged adjacent to an end face that is accessible from the outside when the token is inserted into the battery pack. The communication antenna can be designed as a transmitting and / or receiving antenna and can emit and / or receive electromagnetic radiation (in particular, high-frequency radiation) during operation. To be able to perform this task in a particularly error-robust manner, it can be advantageous to provide the at least one communication antenna on the outside when the token is mounted on the battery pack. The at least one communication antenna is then protected from unwanted shielding from electromagnetic communication radiation.

[0031] According to an exemplary embodiment, the communication antenna can be arranged within the outer 20% and / or within the outer 2 cm of a length of the housing body when the token is inserted into the battery pack. The length of the housing body refers to the length of the token along its insertion direction into the token receptacle of the battery pack. For example, the length of the token can be 1 cm to 10 cm, preferably 2 cm to 6 cm. To ensure a low-interference and thus high-performance wireless connection with a communication partner device, the communication antenna is preferably arranged in the outer 20% or the outer 2 cm of the token length.

[0032] According to an exemplary embodiment, a communication antenna of the communication device, on the one hand, and electrical contacts for establishing an electrical coupling between the token and the battery pack, on the other hand, can be arranged in longitudinally opposite halves of the housing body. In this way, the transmission of electromagnetic waves involving the communication antenna can be spatially separated from the transmission of wired electrical signals or electrical energy, which suppresses unwanted interactions.

[0033] According to an exemplary embodiment, the housing body can be substantially cuboid-shaped. The greatest extension direction of the token can coincide with the insertion direction. The above-described guide rails are preferably formed on the two opposite smallest surfaces of the substantially cuboid-shaped token. A person skilled in the art will understand that the shape of the housing body can be precisely described as "substantially cuboid-shaped," since the above-described functional structures (in particular, guide grooves, removal recesses, locking elements, etc.) can be provided on the main surfaces of the housing body.

[0034] According to an exemplary embodiment, the token can be configured to communicate, by means of the communication device, with at least one communicatively coupled node of a communication network or with another communication partner device. The node or the other communication partner device can be selected from a group consisting of another token, a portable user terminal with an app stored thereon (which can be configured to communicate with a token), a central control device (for example, for the central management or control of tradesman's equipment), and a reordering device for reordering consumables for operating a tradesman's equipment. According to one embodiment, multiple tokens can communicate with each other.

[0035] According to an exemplary embodiment, the token can have at least one sensor, in particular selected from a group consisting of a user identification sensor, a gyro sensor, a location sensor, a temperature sensor, a sound pressure sensor, a vibration sensor, an acceleration sensor, a position sensor, a current sensor, a voltage sensor, and a sensor for measuring an electric and / or magnetic field. Particularly advantageously, the token can be equipped with a user identification sensor, for example, a fingerprint sensor or a facial recognition sensor. When configured as a fingerprint sensor, a user merely needs to place a finger on the token to identify themselves.After establishing a mechanical coupling between the token and a tradesman's device, the sensor-recognized identity of the user can then be used to determine whether the user is capable or authorized to operate the tradesman's device, and if so, whether the user's use of the tradesman's device is subject to certain restrictions or special features. The described user-specific setting of the operation of the tradesman's device can advantageously be based on a user profile of the sensor-identified user, which can be stored, for example, in the token or retrieved from the token via a communications network. Alternatively or additionally, the token can have a gyro sensor. Such a gyro sensor can be an acceleration sensor that reacts to accelerations, rotational movements, or changes in position. Such information can be used, for example, to control the tradesman's device.For example, if a tradesman's tool and token are dropped, the impact can be detected by a gyro sensor and the tradesman's tool can be switched off. Alternatively or additionally, the token's at least one sensor can have a location sensor, such as a GPS sensor. This allows the token to determine the current location of the token and a tradesman's tool mechanically linked to it. For example, operation of the tradesman's tool can be restricted to a specific location or area (e.g., a specific construction site). If the location sensor detects that the token and tradesman's tool are outside of such an approved area, the token can control the tradesman's tool in such a way that its operation in an unauthorized area is prevented. This improves the protection of the tradesman's tool against misuse.A temperature sensor can also be implemented in the token. For example, the use of a tradesman's tool linked to a token can be prevented by the control system if a detected temperature lies outside the approved operating range of the tradesman's tool. For example, if a chemical anchor is to be installed using a handheld device, but the ambient temperature is outside the approved temperature range for installing the chemical anchor, the installation of the chemical anchor can be prevented.

[0036] According to an exemplary embodiment, the token may have at least one communication antenna, in particular selected from a group consisting of a GPS antenna, a BLE antenna, an ultra-wideband antenna, a Bluetooth antenna, a WI-AN antenna, and a narrowband Internet of Things antenna. According to an exemplary embodiment, the token may have at least one communication antenna, in particular selected from a group consisting of a GPS (Global Positioning System) antenna, a BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) antenna, an ultra-wideband (UWB) antenna, a Bluetooth antenna, a WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network) antenna, and a narrowband Internet of Things (IoT) antenna.By means of such a communication antenna, wireless communication of the token is possible via a corresponding communication protocol, which enables further refined control of a tradesman's device mechanically coupled to the token using data transmitted according to the communication protocol.

[0037] According to an exemplary embodiment, the token may comprise at least one processor, in particular selected from a group consisting of a Bluetooth processor, a Narrowband Internet of Things (IoT) processor, an LTE (Long Term Evolution) processor, a 5G processor, and an NFC (Near Field Communication) processor. Alternatively or additionally, the processor may operate according to another existing or future communication protocol.

[0038] According to an exemplary embodiment, the arrangement can comprise the tradesman's device (in particular designed as an electrical handheld device) that is coupled or can be coupled to the battery pack in order to supply the tradesman's device with electrical energy during operation via the battery pack and / or to provide the tradesman's device with the communication functionality during operation via the communication device of the token. It is particularly advantageous to provide the token receptacle in the battery pack and to electromechanically couple the battery pack to the tradesman's device. In this way, an existing tradesman's device can also be retrofitted with communication functionality by simply combining the tradesman's device with a battery pack that has a token receptacle for receiving a token with a communication device. A complete redesign of the tradesman's device is then advantageously unnecessary.

[0039] According to an exemplary embodiment, the battery pack can have an electronic circuit board with a recess. The token can be received in said recess such that the electronic circuit board, as the counterstructure, can be brought into positive and frictional engagement with the guide rails on the opposite longitudinal sides of the housing body. For example, edges of the electronic circuit board can engage the guide grooves of the housing body to delimit the recess. For example, the electronic circuit board can be a printed circuit board on and / or in which one or more electronic components can be mounted. These electronic components can be, for example, a processor chip, a communications chip, a memory chip, and / or passive components.The functionalities of said chips can also be combined in a single chip, thereby achieving a particularly space-saving token configuration. An electronic circuit board can be provided as a rigid plate in which a recess can be formed using simple means (e.g., milled). The recess can be configured to accommodate the token. At the same time, a rigid plate is ideally suited for positively and frictionally engaging the token's guide rails at a boundary edge of the recess. By combining a token with lateral guide rails, in particular designed as guide grooves, with an electronic circuit board carrying the communication device, the token can be designed in a particularly advantageous and compact manner.

[0040] According to an exemplary embodiment, the arrangement can comprise a functional device (e.g., a tool case) with a token receptacle, wherein the token can be removably inserted or inserted into the token receptacle of the functional device, as well as being inserted into the token receptacle of the battery pack. The token can thus be designed universally and optionally combined with different battery packs, tradesman tools, or functional devices to provide them with communication functionality.

[0041] According to an exemplary embodiment, the token holder of the battery pack can be accessible to a user from the outside. When the battery pack or a connected power tool is used as intended, a user can then insert a token into the token holder of the battery pack with one simple movement, thereby equipping or retrofitting the entire system with communication functionality. For this purpose, the token holder can be designed as a slot that is always open and freely accessible to the outside, or it can be covered in an easily accessible manner, for example, by means of a removable, foldable, or unscrewable protective cover. According to an exemplary embodiment, the token holder of the battery pack can be designed as a slot. A user can reversibly insert the token into this slot in an intuitive and guided manner.

[0042] According to an exemplary embodiment, the token and the battery pack can be configured such that the battery pack supplies the token with electrical energy when the token is inserted into the token receptacle of the battery pack. The guided, positive-locking, and frictional insertion of the token into the token receptacle thus also provides the token's power supply. This makes it possible to design the token without its own power supply device, thus making it simple and compact. The battery pack can also be used to power the token, which also benefits from the token's communication functionality.

[0043] In the following, exemplary embodiments of the present invention are described in detail with reference to the following figures.

[0044] Figure 1 shows an arrangement with tradesman devices and tokens according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, which are coupled in a communication network with additional communicable nodes.

[0045] Figure 2 shows a three-dimensional arrangement of a token and a battery block into which the token is inserted, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0046] Figure 3 shows a three-dimensional view of a token according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0047] Figure 4 shows another three-dimensional view of the token according to Figure 3.

[0048] Figure 5 shows a top view of an electronic circuit board of a token according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. Figure 6 shows a three-dimensional arrangement of a token and a battery pack into which the token is inserted, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0049] The same or similar components in different figures are provided with the same reference numerals.

[0050] Before exemplary embodiments of the invention are described with reference to the figures, some general aspects of embodiments of the invention will be explained.

[0051] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a token is provided for simple temporary or permanent insertion into a battery pack of a power tool (for example, an electric drill). Advantageously, the token comprises a communication device for providing a preferably wireless communication functionality. The latter can be made accessible to the battery pack or the power tool by removably inserting the token into a token receptacle of the battery pack. A housing body of the token provides a positive and frictional connection with the token receptacle of the battery pack. It is particularly advantageous that at least two lateral guide rails on opposite longitudinal sides of the housing body enable guided and thus error-resistant and user-friendly insertion into the battery pack.In this way, an existing tradesman's device can be easily upgraded or retrofitted with a communication functionality by coupling its battery block used for power supply with a plug-in token.

[0052] The token can be mounted either in a battery module or on a tracker housing, which in turn can be mounted on any tradesman's tool or functional device (e.g., a toolbox). This allows for a flexible, modular system with a token compatible with many devices.

[0053] Advantageously, a female or recessed plug element can be provided on the token. Since such a design eliminates protruding pins and the like, the token is protected from mechanical damage during external handling.

[0054] According to a preferred embodiment, the token can be configured to form a media-tight (in particular, liquid-tight) connection with the battery module or a tracker housing. This can be achieved, for example, by means of contact elements protected using an elastomer lip. Alternatively or additionally, water-protected contact elements can also be provided, which can, for example, comprise a hydrophobic water-displacing medium.

[0055] It is also possible to position one or more transmitting and / or receiving antennas (also referred to as at least one communication antenna) of the token such that said at least one antenna is positioned on the outside (in particular within the outer 20% and / or within the outer 2 cm of the token's length) when the token is plugged into the battery module. This allows for further improvement of the token's signal exchange within the scope of its communication functionality. Preferably, such an antenna of the token can be arranged on the opposite contact side, in particular to the right of the center of the token in the longitudinal direction if the electrical contacts are arranged to the left of the center (or vice versa).

[0056] The outer contour of the token can be positively connected to the receiving cavity of the battery module. This allows for secure electrical contact while simultaneously mechanically holding the token in place.

[0057] The token can advantageously be provided with locking lugs to

[0058] Inserting the token into the battery module creates a combined snap-on, friction-locking connection. Furthermore, the token can be designed with a gripping element that remains accessible from the outside after insertion into the battery module, allowing the token to be removed from the battery module with one hand.

[0059] Guide grooves on the sides of the token can be engaged with corresponding rails of the battery module, which can particularly advantageously be formed by a circuit board of the battery pack. In this way, a type of drawer guide can be created using the simplest means, but which caters to the specific needs of the token in a special way, as described herein.

[0060] Figure 1 shows an arrangement of tradesman devices 102 and tokens 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, which are coupled in a communication network 120.

[0061] In short, each of the tokens 100 is used for insertion into a respective battery pack 142 of a selected one of the tradesman tools 102. Each token 100 can be selectively inserted into each battery pack 142. Each token 100 comprises a communication device 118 for providing wireless communication functionality to the selected battery pack 142 or a tradesman tool 102 selectively coupled thereto when the token 100 has been removably inserted by a user into a token receptacle 152 of the selected battery pack 142. Furthermore, the token 100 has an outer housing body 101, made of plastic, for example, in and / or in which the individual components of the token 100 are arranged. The housing body 101 is designed for positive and frictional insertion into the token receptacle 152.Here, lateral guide rails 105 of the housing body 101, which in the illustrated embodiment are formed by guide grooves 107, function on at least two of the four longitudinal sides of the housing body 101, for guided insertion into the battery pack 142. For the token 100 shown in detail in Figure 1, the four longitudinal sides are those whose surfaces extend perpendicular to the plane of the paper. By inserting the token 100 into a respective token receptacle 152 of a selected battery pack 142, which in turn is connected to a selected power tool 102, an arrangement comprising token 100, battery pack 142, and power tool 102 is obtained, in which the battery pack 142 supplies the power tool 102 and the token 100 with energy. The token 100 provides wireless communication functionality to the battery pack 142 and / or the tradesman's device 102 by means of its communication device 108.The tradesman's device 102, in turn, is configured to perform a functional task, for example, drilling a hole in a wall if the tradesman's device 102 is embodied as an electric drill. Advantageously, simply inserting the token 100 into the token receptacle 152 provides wireless communication functionality for the battery pack 142 and / or the tradesman's device 102 via the communication device 118 of the token 100, so that even tradesman's devices 102 without their own wireless communication functionality can be easily equipped or retrofitted with such functionality.At the same time, simply plugging in creates a reversible but reliable positive and frictional connection between the battery pack 142 and the housing body 101 of the token 100, in that the lateral guide rails 105 on the opposite longitudinal sides of the housing body 101 are guided along a positive counterstructure (not shown in Figure 1, see reference numeral 127 in Figure 2) in the battery pack 142. An energy-transmitting and / or data-transmitting electromechanical connection can thus be formed between the battery pack 142 and the power tool 102 by plugging the battery pack 142 into the power tool 102 in a positive and frictional manner, thereby electrically conductively coupling electrical contacts 141, 143 of the battery pack 142 and the power tool 102.The energy-transmitting and / or data-transmitting connection between token 100 and battery pack 142 can be released again by simply pulling out token 100. The functionality of the arrangement shown in Figure 1 is described in more detail below.

[0062] The illustrated arrangement comprises a plurality of tokens 100, which may, for example, all be shaped and dimensioned in the same way. Only two such tokens 100 are shown in Figure 1 (one in detail and the other schematically), but a much larger number of tokens 100 in an arrangement is possible (for example, at least ten, in particular at least one hundred).

[0063] Furthermore, a plurality of tradesman tools 102 are provided in the arrangement. In Figure 1, only two such tradesman tools 102 are shown, however, a much larger number of tradesman tools 102 is possible in an arrangement (for example, at least ten, in particular at least one hundred). Some or all of the tradesman tools 102 can be coupled to a battery pack 142. Such a battery pack 142 can have a specifically shaped and dimensioned mechanical token receptacle 152, here designed as an insertion or receiving opening, which is designed for mechanical coupling to a respective mechanical coupling device 110 of any of the tokens 100 selected by the user. The mechanical coupling device 110 is provided as an outer part of the housing body 101 of the respective token 100.Between each mechanical coupling device 110 of each token 100 and each mechanical token holder 152 of each battery block 142, a positive and frictional connection can be formed by plugging them together, for example realized by interacting guide rails.

[0064] When a mechanical connection is established between a token 100 and a selected battery pack 142 by inserting the mechanical coupling device 110 of the token 100 into the token receptacle 152 of the selected battery pack 142, an operative or communication connection is simultaneously established between the token 100, the battery pack 142, and / or a connected tradesman's tool 102. More specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, an electrical connection is established between one or more electrical contacts 156 on an outer side of each token 100 and one or more electrical mating contacts 136 on an inner side of each token receptacle 152 of each battery pack 142.The formation of a positive and frictional connection between a respective token 100 and a respective token receptacle 152 of a battery block 142 thus leads to the formation of an electrical contact and thus an electrically conductive connection between the token 100 and this battery block 142. This electrical connection also forms an electrical communication connection between the token 100 and the battery block 142, which in particular enables the transmission of electrical signals (for example control signals). As an alternative to this contact-based electrical coupling, a wireless or contactless communication connection can be established between a token 100 on the one hand and a battery block 142 or battery block connected to it.a connected tradesman's device 102 by inserting the token 100 into the token receptacle 152 to bring a transponder (for example an RFID tag, not shown) of the token 100 into a readability distance of a transponder reader (for example an RFID reader, not shown) of the battery block 142 (not shown).

[0065] Advantageously, a token 100, when brought into communication with the battery pack 142 and / or the tradesman's device 102 by insertion into the token receptacle 152 of a battery pack 142, can be configured to control this battery pack 142 and / or this tradesman's device 102. Alternatively or additionally, such a token 100 can also provide only a communication functionality to the battery pack 142 coupled thereto.

[0066] By selectively coupling each token 100 with each mechanical token receptacle 152 of a selected battery block 142, a flexibly combinable, modular system for communication operation, control and / or management of tradesman devices 102 in a complex environment is created.

[0067] In Figure 1, the power tools 102 are only partially and only schematically illustrated. For example, power tools 102 can be designed as electric or motor-driven handheld devices, for example as electric drills, electric cordless screwdrivers, etc. Power tools 102 designed as electric or motor-driven handheld devices can, for example, have a functional device 134 that performs the actual function of the respective handheld device and can be driven by an electric or motor drive. In a power tool 102 designed as a drill, the functional device 134 can, for example, be a drill chuck (in particular with a drill bit). In a power tool 102 designed as a cordless screwdriver, the functional device 134 can, for example, be a bit holder (in particular with a bit). Furthermore, a handheld device can be coupled to a battery pack 142, for example a removable and rechargeable battery pack.Such a battery pack 142 can supply the functional device 134 with electrical drive energy during operation. Furthermore, the battery pack 142 can also supply a respective token 100 with electrical energy when the token is received in the token receptacle 152 of the battery pack 142. A handset can also have a control device 137 and / or a battery pack 142 can have a control device 138, which can be configured to control the handset or the battery pack 142 and / or to interact with a processor 106 of a coupled token 100.

[0068] A part or each of the described tradesman's tools 102 can be temporarily or permanently equipped with a token 100 inserted into an associated battery block 142.

[0069] Advantageously, the tradesman devices 102 are configured for coupling—via an associated battery pack 142—with the tokens 100 in such a way that the use of a tradesman device 102 coupled to a token 100 by a user can be permitted, configured, and / or prohibited based on a personalized authorization profile. More specifically, a user of a token 100 can be assigned a user profile that can contain information regarding the user's ability and authorization to use certain tradesman devices 102, but can also define usage restrictions and / or usage prohibitions with regard to certain tradesman devices 102.Such a user profile can be stored in a storage device 128 of a token 100, in a storage device 140 of a battery module 142, in a storage device 139 of a tradesman's device 102 and / or in a database 132 of a node (in the illustrated embodiment a central control device 124, alternatively another node) that is communicatively coupled to the token 100 via a communication network 120.

[0070] The structure of the token 100, which is shown in detail in Figure 1, is described in more detail below by way of example. Said token 100 serves, for example, for user-related control of a selectable one of the tradesman's devices 102 of the arrangement and has a processor 106 for this purpose. For example, the processor 106 can be embedded inside the token 100 and thus protected. The processor 106 can be designed, for example, as a microprocessor. It is possible to design the processor 106 as part of a processor unit, as an entire processor unit, or as a plurality of interacting processor units. The processor 106 of the token 100 serves for the control-technical interaction with different tradesman's devices 102 of the arrangement and, in particular, interacts functionally with a selected tradesman's device 102 and / or with an associated battery pack 142, into whose token receptacle 152 the token 100 is inserted.

[0071] Furthermore, the token 100 contains an optional cryptography unit 108 that supports cryptographic communication of the token 100. More specifically, the cryptography unit 108 can be used to encrypt communication between the token 100 and a communication partner device in the communication network 120.

[0072] As already mentioned, the token 100 has the mechanical coupling device 110, which is designed for preferably positive mechanical coupling with a token receptacle 152 of a battery pack 142. The mechanical coupling device 110 of the token 100 is defined by its outer shape, which is designed inversely to the inner shape of a token receptacle 152 of a respective battery pack 142.

[0073] The token 100 can advantageously be configured to control the operation of said battery pack 142 and / or a tool 102 coupled thereto by means of the processor 106 (and optionally the cryptography unit 108 using cryptographic communication) upon mechanical coupling of the mechanical coupling device 110 to a token receptacle 152 of a selected battery pack 142. More specifically, the processor 106 of the token 100 can control the tool 102 and, in particular, its functional device 134 such that the desired processing task is performed by the tool 102 as intended. For example, the processor 106 of the token 100 can specify the torque applied by a drill bit of a tool 102 configured as a drill to a substrate in which a borehole is to be drilled.Alternatively or additionally, it is also possible for the control of the tradesman's device 102 to be carried out by means of its processor 137 and / or by means of the processor 138 of the battery module 142. The token 100 can also provide the battery module 142 and / or the tradesman's device 102 with only one communication functionality via its communication device 118.

[0074] The token 100 can advantageously be configured for user-specific control of the tradesman's device 102, in particular based on a personalized authorization profile of the user. For this purpose, the token 100 can be provided with an identification device 170 configured to identify a user of the token 100. The identification device 170 is formed by a sensor 112, embodied, for example, as a fingerprint sensor, and the part of the processor 106 that identifies the user from sensor data determined by the sensor 112, for example, by a pattern comparison with reference data. More precisely, the sensor 112 is embodied, for example, as a fingerprint sensor, onto which a user places a finger for identification.

[0075] The aforementioned storage device 128 of the token 100 can, for example, store information indicative of a personalized authorization profile of the user with respect to the tradesman device 102 or granting access thereto. However, it is also possible for the authorization profile of one or more users to be stored in an entity located remotely with respect to the token 100, for example, in a central database 132 of a central control device 124, to which the token 100 can be communicatively coupled via the communication network 120.

[0076] During operation, the token 100 can be supplied with electrical energy by a battery pack 142 of a power tool 102 when the token 100 is received in the token receptacle 152. In this case, the token 100 can be independent of its own power supply. Alternatively, the token 100 can be equipped with its own power supply, for example, a button cell.

[0077] Figure 1 further shows that the token 100 can have a communication antenna 114, for example, a Bluetooth antenna or a WLAN antenna. It is also possible and advantageous for reasons of diversity if the token 100 has multiple communication antennas 114, which support, for example, different communication protocols. For example, a communication antenna 114 can be realized in the form of a planar coil, which is preferably arranged in a surface region of the token 100. A communication antenna 114 can be designed as a transmit / receive antenna, i.e., with transmit functionality and receive functionality. It is also possible to provide a transmit antenna and a separate receive antenna, or only one of these communication antennas.

[0078] In particular, the token 100 shown in Figure 1 has the aforementioned communication device 118, which can be formed by the interaction of the communication antenna 114 with a corresponding part of the processor 106 and optionally with the cryptography unit 108. The communication device 118 serves to communicate the token 100 with one or more communication nodes via the communication network 120. This can be, for example, the public internet, an intranet, or a mobile network.

[0079] For example, the token 100 can communicate via the communication network 120—or directly—with another token 100 of the arrangement. Alternatively or additionally, it is possible to establish a communicative connection between the token 100 and an app or other software stored on a portable user terminal 122 via the communication network 120. In the illustrated embodiment, the user terminal 122 is a mobile radio device with a user interface with which a user can control and / or monitor the communicatively coupled token 100 and / or a tradesman's device 102 coupled thereto via a battery module 142. Using the user terminal 122, a user can also control and / or monitor the arrangement from a remote position. For example, a token 100 can connect to the user terminal 122, which is embodied here as a mobile radio device, via an app.By means of the user terminal 122, data can be downloaded to the token 100, for example, a user profile of a user of the user terminal 122. Furthermore, it is possible for the token 100 to access resources of the user terminal 122 during operation, for example, a processor contained therein and / or a camera of the user terminal 122.

[0080] Alternatively or additionally, it is possible to establish a communicable link between the token 100 and a central control device 124 (for example, for controlling multiple tradesman devices 102) via the communication network 120. The central control device 124 can be equipped with access rights to a database 132, from which data records can be transmitted to the token 100. Such data records can be, for example, a user profile requested by the token 100, an operating data record for executing a processing task with a tradesman device 102 coupled to the token 100 via a battery pack 142, etc.Thus, the token 100 can be configured to download a data set, in particular a data set defining an operating sequence of the tradesman's device 102 and / or a data set defining a user profile of a user of the token 100, from the central control device 124 or another communicatively coupled node of the communication network 120 by means of the communication device 118.

[0081] Furthermore, the communicable coupling between the token 100 and the central control device 124 makes it possible to transmit data from the token 100 to the control device 124 for storage in the database 132. Such data can be, for example, tracking data that allows tracking of a tradesman's device 102 coupled to a respective token 100. Thus, the token 100 can be configured to upload a data set, in particular a data set containing operating results and / or operating parameters of an operation of the tradesman's device 102, to the control device 124 or another communicatively coupled node of the communication network 120 via the communication device 118. Finally, it is possible for the token 100 to be coupled via the communication network 120 to a reordering device 126 for reordering consumables for operating a tradesman's device 102.

[0082] During operation, for user-related control of a tradesman's device 102 using a token 100, a user of the token 100 can first be identified using the sensor 112 designed as a fingerprint sensor. Subsequently, the mechanical coupling device 110 of the token 100 can be mechanically coupled to the mechanical connecting device 152 of the selected battery pack 142 on a tradesman's device 102. Before or after the mechanical coupling, a personalized authorization profile of the user of the token 100 can be located, for example, in one of the storage devices 128, 132, 139, 140. After the mechanical coupling has been completed, the tradesman's device 102 can be controlled using the processor 106. In this case, use of the tradesman's device 102 by the user can advantageously be permitted, prohibited, and / or discontinued based on the personalized authorization profile.

[0083] Figure 2 shows a three-dimensional arrangement of a token 100 and a battery pack 142 into which the token 100 is inserted, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. The interior of the token 100, not shown in Figure 2, in particular its communication device 118, can be configured, for example, as shown in Figure 1, Figure 5, or Figure 6.

[0084] Figure 2 shows, in particular, the interior of the battery pack 142, which is mechanically protected and electrically insulated from the outside by a battery housing 180 (made of plastic, for example). A plurality of battery cells 181 (rechargeable battery cells, for example) are provided inside the battery housing 180 and are used to supply electrical energy. A token receptacle 152 of the battery pack 142 for reversibly receiving the token 100 is accessible to a user from the outside, as it is exposed to the outside of the battery housing 180. According to Figure 2, the token receptacle 152 of the battery pack 142 is designed as a receiving slot in the battery housing 180. Furthermore, an electronic circuit board 129 of the battery pack 142 is shown, which can be designed, for example, as a printed circuit board (PCB).Surface-mounted components can be mounted on the electronic board 129, in particular a semiconductor chip forming the processor 106 (not shown in Figure 2).

[0085] Figure 2 shows the token 100 in an operating state in which it has been removably inserted into the token receptacle 152 of the battery pack 142. This insertion can provide communication functionality for the battery pack 142 and / or the tradesman's device 102 by means of the communication device 118 of the token 100. In other words, by forming the electromechanical plug connection between the token 100 and the battery pack 142, the communication device 118 can enable the battery pack 142 or the tradesman's device 102 to carry out wireless communication with communication partner devices, in particular to exchange data unidirectionally or bidirectionally. This also allows a battery pack 142 or a tradesman's device 102 that is not capable of wireless communication itself to be equipped or retrofitted with wireless communication functionality.

[0086] At the same time, by inserting the token 100 into the token receptacle 152, a positive and frictional connection is formed between the battery block 142 and a housing body 101 of the token 100. This is achieved by lateral guide rails 105 on two opposite longitudinal sides of the housing body 101 being guided along a positive-locking counterstructure 127 in the battery block 142, which is formed by edges of the electronics circuit board 129. More precisely, the battery block 142 is equipped with an electronics circuit board 129 configured in such a way that a recess is formed in the latter which is adapted to the shape and dimensions of the guide rails 105 of the token 100. The token 100 is namely inserted orInserted into the recess of the electronics board 129, it can be received in the recess of the electronics board 129 in such a way that the electronics board 129, as a counterstructure 127, can be brought into positive and frictional engagement with the guide rails 105 on the opposite longitudinal sides of the housing body 101. Clearly, the edges of the electronics board 129 that delimit the recess form the counterstructure 127. This has advantages: Because the electronics board 129 is configured not only for the surface mounting of electronic components of the battery block 142, but also synergistically for forming a positive and frictional receptacle for the token 100, the structure of the battery block 142 can be kept simple and compact.Furthermore, the use of the electronic board 129 for the direct electromechanical reception of the token 100 results in short paths for electrical currents between the token 100 and the battery block 142 and thus in low-interference signal transmission and low-loss energy transmission.

[0087] As described above, the token 100 has a communication device 118 arranged inside the housing body 101 for providing a communication functionality for the battery pack 142 and / or the power tool 102 connected thereto (not shown in Figure 2) when the token 100 is removably inserted into the token receptacle 152 of the battery pack 142. At the same time, the housing body 101 serves for positive and frictional insertion into the token receptacle 152, wherein the lateral guide rails 105 on opposite longitudinal sides of the housing body 101 are designed for guided insertion into the battery pack 142.

[0088] Figure 2 further shows that the housing body 101 has a removal aid 117 for manually removing the token 100 from the battery pack 142 on an end face 113 accessible from the outside when the token 100 is inserted into the battery pack 142, as shown in Figure 2. This removal aid 117 is formed as a removal filament, for example, designed as a removal wire, that can be pulled out of the battery pack 142 by a user. The removal filament can be designed as an arcuate element whose free ends are attached to the housing body 101. A grippable central portion of the arcuate element protrudes opposite a removal groove 119 in the otherwise flat end face or end side 113 and therefore allows a user to manually grasp and pull out the removal filament together with the housing body 101, whereby the entire token 100 can be pulled out of the token receptacle 152 of the battery block 142.By pulling out the token 100, the electrical coupling, the energy supply coupling and the data exchange coupling between the token 100 on the one hand and the battery block 142 and / or the tradesman's device 102 on the other hand can be deactivated with one hand.

[0089] Figure 2 shows that the housing body 101 is essentially cuboid-shaped, regardless of the structural features described.

[0090] Figure 3 shows a three-dimensional rear view of a token 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. Figure 4 shows a three-dimensional front view of this token 100.

[0091] Figures 3 and 4 show various structural features that can also be implemented according to Figure 2 and are described in more detail below. While Figure 2 shows an end face 113 of the token 100 that is externally accessible in the assembled state, the illustration according to Figure 3 shows another end face 115 that is inaccessible from the outside in the assembled state and that, according to Figure 2, can adjoin the electronics board 129 at its end. Figure 4, in turn, shows the token 100 with the same front end face 113 that can also be seen in Figure 2.

[0092] First, Figures 3 and 4 show that the lateral guide rails 105 can advantageously be formed by inwardly recessed guide grooves 107 in the opposing longitudinal sides of the housing body 101. This avoids raised protruding functional components of the housing body 101, thus preventing damage to the token 100 when a user handles the token 100 outside the battery module 142. As shown in Figure 3, the guide grooves 107 are elongated, groove-shaped recesses on two opposing longitudinal sides of the housing body 101.As shown in Figure 3 and Figure 4 for one long side, the lateral guide rails 105 on the said opposite long sides of the housing body 101 can have one or more respective locking elements 109 for forming a locking connection between the token 100 and the electronic circuit board 129 of the battery block 142 when the token 100 is inserted into the battery block 142 in a form-fitting and friction-locking manner.

[0093] Furthermore, the lateral guide rails 105 can have a centering aid 111 on one or more opposite longitudinal sides of the housing body 101 for centering the token 100 in the battery pack 142. Clearly, the centering aid 111 ensures that the token 100 is correctly positioned laterally relative to the battery pack 142 when inserted.

[0094] Figure 3 shows that the housing body 101 has electrical contacts 156 for forming an electrical coupling between the token 100 and the battery block 142 only on the end face 115, which is inaccessible from the outside when the token 100 is inserted into the battery block 142. In other words, the electrical connector function of the token 100 is provided exclusively on the rear end face 115, so that the token 100 inserted into the battery block 142, together with the battery housing 180, contributes to the external electrical insulation of the arrangement.Referring again to Figure 3, the electrical contacts 156 of the token 100 are provided exclusively on the rear end face 115 of the token 100 to form an electrical coupling between the token 100 and the battery block 142, which are electrically coupled by forming the positive and frictional connection with the battery block 142 with electrically conductive mating contacts of the battery block 142.

[0095] To protect the electrical contacts 156 of the token 100 from the effects of moisture when the token 100 is handled outside the battery pack 142, the electrical contacts 156 can be protected from moisture by means of a moisture protection device 121. The moisture protection device 121 can be formed, for example, in the form of elastomer lips on or above the electrical contacts 156, which can be displaced or displaced during the formation of the plug connection to expose the electrical contacts 156. It is also possible to form the moisture protection device 121 using hydrophobic protective elements.

[0096] As best seen in Figure 3, the housing body 101 can have an internally connected stop 123 on the end face 113, which is accessible from the outside when plugged in, for limiting the insertion depth of the token 100 into the token receptacle 152 of the battery pack 142. This allows a target insertion depth to be specified that cannot be exceeded, since upon reaching the target insertion depth, the stop 123 strikes the electronics board 129 and / or another structural component of the battery pack 143.

[0097] Furthermore, the housing body 101 can have run-in bevels 125 adjacent to a front side 115 which is inaccessible from the outside when plugged in, which further improve a lateral positioning accuracy of the token 100 relative to the battery block 143.

[0098] Figure 5 shows a top view of an electronic circuit board 184 of a token 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. For example, the token 100 shown in Figure 5 can have a length of 42 mm and a width of 24.5 mm. Figure 6 shows a three-dimensional arrangement of a token 100 and a battery pack 142 into which the token 100 is inserted, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0099] Referring first to Figure 5, a token electronics board 184 is shown, which may be embodied, for example, as a printed circuit board. A number of electronic components are mounted on the token electronics board 184. These include, in particular, a semiconductor chip that forms the processor 106. Together with the processor 106 or a part thereof, a communications antenna 114 forms the wireless communications device 118. A sensor block 186 comprises one or more sensors 112, as described above. A connector block 188 provides the contacts 156 by means of which an electrical connection of the token 100 to the battery block 142 is established.

[0100] The communication antenna 114 is embodied, for example, as a Bluetooth or BLE antenna. Furthermore, the processor 106 is, for example, a BLE or Bluetooth processor. Multiple or different processors or antennas are also possible, depending on the implemented communication technology.

[0101] Referring again to Figure 5, the communication antenna 114 of the communication device 118 is arranged adjacent to the end face 113, which is accessible from the outside when the token 100 is inserted into the battery pack 142. This is also shown accordingly in Figure 6. More precisely, the communication antenna 114 can be arranged within the outer 20% of the length of the housing body 101 when the token 100 is inserted into the battery pack 142. Furthermore, according to Figures 5 and 6, the communication antenna 114 of the communication device 118, on the one hand, and the electrical contacts 156 or the connector block 188 for forming an electrical coupling between the token 100 and the battery pack 142, on the other hand, are arranged in halves 190, 192 of the housing body 101 that are opposite one another in the longitudinal direction. The halves 190, 192 extend from a center line 194 to the left and to the right, respectively, see Figure 5.This geometry is very advantageous with regard to electrical operational reliability and the quality of wireless communication: On the one hand, it ensures that the contacts 156 of the token 100 are located deep inside the battery pack 142 when the latter is electrically coupled to the battery pack 152. An outer side of the arrangement comprising the token 100 and battery pack 142 is therefore reliably electrically insulated during operation. At the same time, in the described configuration, the communications antenna 114 is located on the outer side of the arrangement comprising the token 100 and battery pack 142. This is advantageous with regard to the emission and reception of electromagnetic radiation for communication purposes by the communications antenna 114, since the electronic components of the token 100 and battery pack 142 then do not shield or attenuate corresponding electromagnetic waves, or do so only to a minimal extent.Also, an interaction between signals at the contacts 156 and electromagnetic radiation of the communication antenna 114 is advantageously suppressed by the clear spatial separation.

[0102] After forming a plug connection between token 100 and battery pack 142, battery pack 142 also supplies token 100 with electrical energy, so that a dedicated electrical power supply for token 100 can be dispensed with. Alternatively, token 100 can also have its own power supply, for example, a button cell.

[0103] Additionally, it should be noted that "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality. Furthermore, it should be noted that features or steps described with reference to one of the above embodiments may also be used in combination with other features or steps of other embodiments described above. Reference signs in the claims are not to be considered as limitations.

Claims

Patent claims 1. Token (100) for insertion into a battery pack (142) of a power tool (102), the token (100) comprising: a communication device (118) for providing a communication functionality when the token (100) is removably inserted into a token receptacle (152) of the battery pack (142); and a housing body (101) for positive and frictional insertion into the token receptacle (152), lateral guide rails (105) being formed on opposite longitudinal sides of the housing body (101) for guided insertion into the battery pack (142).

2. Token (100) according to claim 1, wherein the lateral guide rails (105) are formed by inwardly recessed guide grooves (107) in the opposite longitudinal sides of the housing body (101).

3. Token (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the lateral guide rails (105) on at least one of the opposite longitudinal sides of the housing body (101) have at least one locking element (109) for forming a locking connection between the token (100) and the battery block (142).

4. Token (100) according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the lateral guide rails (105) on at least one of the opposite longitudinal sides of the housing body (101) have at least one centering aid (111) for centering the token (100) in the battery block (142).

5. Token (100) according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the housing body (101) has on an end face (113) which is accessible from the outside when the token (100) is inserted into the battery block (142), a Removal aid (117) for removing the token (100) from the battery block (142), in particular a pull-out removal filament, further in particular a removal filament arranged at least in sections in a removal groove (119) of the end face (113).

6. Token (100) according to one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the housing body (101) has, on an end face (115) which is inaccessible from the outside when the token (100) is inserted into the battery block (142), in particular only on said end face (115), electrical contacts (156) for forming an electrical coupling between the token (100) and the battery block (142).

7. Token (100) according to one of claims 1 to 6, comprising electrical contacts (156) for forming an electrical coupling between the token (100) and the battery block (142), wherein the electrical contacts (156) are protected from moisture by means of a moisture protection device (121).

8. Token (100) according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the housing body (101) has, on an end face (113) which is accessible from the outside when the token (100) is inserted into the battery block (142), an internally connected stop (123) for limiting an insertion depth of the token (100) into the token receptacle (152) of the battery block (142).

9. Token (100) according to one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the housing body (101) has run-in slopes (125) adjacent to an end face (115) which is inaccessible from the outside when the token (100) is inserted into the battery block (142).

10. Token (100) according to one of claims 1 to 9, wherein a communication antenna (114) of the communication device (118) is arranged adjacent to an end face (113) which is accessible from the outside when the token (100) is inserted into the battery block (142).

11. Token (100) according to claim 10, wherein the communication antenna (114) is arranged within the outer 20% and / or within the outer 2 cm of a length of the housing body (101) when the token (100) is plugged into the battery pack (142).

12. Token (100) according to one of claims 1 to 11, wherein a communication antenna (114) of the communication device (118) on the one hand and electrical contacts (156) for forming an electrical coupling between the token (100) and the battery block (142) on the other hand are arranged in halves (190, 192) of the housing body (101) which are opposite one another in the longitudinal direction.

13. Token (100) according to one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the housing body (101) is substantially cuboid-shaped.

14. Token (100) according to one of claims 1 to 13, comprising at least one of the following features: wherein the token (100) is designed to communicate by means of the communication device (118) with at least one communicatively coupled communication partner device, which is selected from a group consisting of another token (100), a portable user terminal (122) with an app installed thereon, a central control device (124), and a reordering device (126) for reordering consumables for operating a tradesman's device (102); wherein the token (100) has at least one sensor (112), in particular selected from a group consisting of a user identification sensor, a gyro sensor, a location sensor, a temperature sensor, a sound pressure sensor, a vibration sensor, an acceleration sensor, a position sensor, a current sensor, a voltage sensor, and a sensor for measuring an electric and / or magnetic field; wherein the token (100) has at least one communication antenna (114), in particular selected from a group consisting of a GPS antenna, a BLE antenna, an ultra-wideband antenna, a Bluetooth antenna, a WLAN antenna, and a narrowband Internet of Things antenna; wherein the token (100) has at least one processor (106), in particular selected from a group consisting of a Bluetooth processor, a narrowband Internet of Things processor, an LTE processor, a 5G processor, and an NFC processor.

15. Arrangement, comprising: a battery pack (142) for a tradesman's device (102); a token (100) according to one of claims 1 to 14; wherein the token (100) is removably inserted or insertable into a token receptacle (152) of the battery pack (142), so that by inserting: a communication functionality for the battery pack (142) and / or the tradesman's device (102) can be provided by means of the communication device (118) of the token (100); and a positive and frictional connection between the battery pack (142) and the housing body (101) of the token (100) can be formed by the lateral guide rails (105) on the mutually opposite longitudinal sides of the housing body (101) along a positive-locking counterstructure (127) in the battery block (142).

16. Arrangement according to claim 15, comprising the tradesman's device (102) which is or can be coupled to the battery pack (142) in order to supply the tradesman's device (102) with electrical energy during operation by means of the battery pack (142) and / or to provide the tradesman's device (102) with the communication functionality during operation by means of the communication device (118) of the token (100).

17. Arrangement according to claim 15 or 16, wherein the battery block (142) has an electronic circuit board (129) with a recess in which the token (100) can be received such that the electronic circuit board (129) as the counter structure (127) can be brought into positive and frictional engagement with the guide rails (105) on the mutually opposite longitudinal sides of the housing body (101).

18. Arrangement according to one of claims 15 to 17, comprising a functional device, in particular a tool case, with a token holder (152), wherein the token (100) is removably inserted or insertable into the token holder (152) of the functional device as an alternative to being inserted into the token holder (152) of the battery pack (142).

19. Arrangement according to one of claims 15 to 18, wherein the token receptacle (152) of the battery block (142) is accessible to a user from the outside.

20. Arrangement according to one of claims 15 to 19, wherein the token receptacle (152) of the battery block (142) is designed as a receiving slot.

21. Arrangement according to one of claims 15 to 20, wherein the token (100) and the battery block (142) are designed such that the battery block (142) supplies the token (100) with electrical energy when the token (100) is inserted into the token receptacle (152) of the battery block (142).

22. A method comprising: removably inserting a token (100) into a token receptacle (152) of a battery pack (142) of a power tool (102); Providing a communication functionality for the battery pack (142) and / or the tradesman's device (102) by means of a communication device (118) of the token (100) by inserting the token (100) into the token receptacle (152) of the battery pack (142); and Forming a positive and frictional connection between the battery block (142) and a housing body (101) of the token (100) by inserting the token (100) into the token receptacle (152) of the battery block (142), whereby lateral guide rails (105) on opposite longitudinal sides of the housing body (101) are guided along a positive counter-structure (127) in the battery block (142).

Images