Tool tracking system

Abstract

A power tool 105 comprises a power source, subscriber identity module (SIM) card, and global navigation satellite system (GNSS) module. The SIM card receives a command to enable or disable the power tool, e.g. from a mobile cellular network 115 or Internet connection 120. The power tool may be a cordless battery-operated tool, or may connect to an external power source. The GNSS module may be a global positioning system (GPS) module. The enable / disable command may depend on the power tool’s location. The power tool may have a unique identification or serial number. The SIM card may be an embedded SIM (eSIM). The power tool may be part of a system comprising a GNSS satellite 110 and a remote cloud server. The system may further comprise a companion device 405, such as a smartphone, laptop, or smartwatch. The remote server may transmit a command based on a geofence. A method of remotely enabling or disabling a power tool begins by activating the power tool. A GNSS module obtains the power tool’s location. The power tool is enabled or disabled dependent on its location. Disabling the power tool may prevent the power tool performing its primary function.

Description

Background

[0001] Power tools are an essential part of any major construction project, and are used for a wide range of tasks on building sites. These tools are designed to make work easier and more efficient, and are commonly used fortasks such as drilling, sawing, and sanding. They are typically powered by electricity, although some models are also available with gasoline or diesel engines. Power tools can save significant amounts of time and effort for workers when compared to using manual tools. For example, an electric drill can create holes much faster than a hand drill.

[0002] One of the risks associated with using power tools on building sites is the potential for theft. Building sites can be attractive targets for thieves, who may be attracted by the high-value tools and equipment that are often present. In an effort to prevent power tool theft, power tools may be locked up when they are not in use, and care is taken as to who has access to the site. Power tools may be labelled and marked with identification tags, so that they can theoretically be traced if they are stolen. Power tools are often stored in vehicles when being transported between sites. Whilst the tools are located in the vehicle they are at a heightened risk of theft. Summary

[0003] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0004] A first aspect provides a power tool, comprising: a power module; a processor; a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card module; and a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) module; wherein the power module, processor, SIM card module, and GNSS module are in electronic communication with each other, and further wherein the processor is operable to: receive a command, via the SIM card module, to either enable or disable the power tool according to the received command.

[0005] A further aspect provides a method of remotely enabling or disabling power tools, comprising the steps of: activating a power tool; obtaining, via a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) module, a location of the power tool; transmitting, via a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card module, the location of the power tool to a remote cloud server; receiving, via the SIM card module, a command dependent on the location of the power tool from the remote cloud server; and enabling or disabling the power tool, via a processor, according to the received command.

[0006] A further aspect provides a system, comprising: a power tool comprising: a power module; a processor; a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card module; and a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) module; a GNSS satellite; and a remote cloud server; wherein the processor is operable to: receive a command, via the SIM card module, to enable or disable the power tool according to the received command.

[0007] The methods described herein may be performed by software in machine readable form on a tangible storage medium e.g. in the form of a computer program comprising computer program code means adapted to perform all the steps of any of the methods described herein when the program is run on a computer and where the computer program may be embodied on a computer readable medium. Examples of tangible (or non-transitory) storage media include disks, thumb drives, memory cards et cetera and do not include propagated signals. The software can be suitable for execution on a parallel processor or a serial processor such that the method steps may be carried out in any suitable order, or simultaneously.

[0008] This acknowledges that firmware and software can be valuable, separately tradable commodities. It is intended to encompass software, which runs on or controls “dumb” or standard hardware, to carry out the desired functions. It is also intended to encompass software which “describes” or defines the configuration of hardware, such as HDL (hardware description language) software, as is used for designing silicon chips, or for configuring universal programmable chips, to carry out desired functions.

[0009] The preferred features may be combined as appropriate, as would be apparent to a skilled person, and may be combined with any of the aspects of the invention. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0010] Embodiments of the invention will be described, by way of example, with reference to the following drawings, in which:

[0011] Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of an apparatus in electronic connection with a number of external devices;

[0012] Figure 2 shows an exemplary printed circuit board for use in the apparatus;

[0013] Figure 3 shows a block diagram of a method for enabling or disabling a power tool remotely;

[0014] Figure 4 shows a schematic diagram of an alternative arrangement of the apparatus in electronic connection with a number of external devices;

[0015] Figure 5 shows a block diagram of a server in electronic communication with the apparatus; and

[0016] Figure 6 shows an exemplary computing arrangement used either within or in conjunction with the apparatus.

[0017] Common reference numerals are used throughout the figures to indicate similar features. Detailed Description

[0018] Embodiments of the present invention are described below by way of example only. These examples represent the best ways of putting the invention into practice that are currently known to the Applicant although they are not the only ways in which this could be achieved. The description sets forth the functions of the example and the sequence of steps for constructing and operating the example. However, the same or equivalent functions and sequences may be accomplished by different examples.

[0019] Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram 100 of the apparatus in electronic connection with a number of external devices. In this diagram, there is shown one or more cellular and Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) enabled power tools 105. The power tools 105 may include one or more of: an electric drill, a circular saw; an impact driver, a jigsaw, and / or a grinder. It will be appreciated that a large number of power tools are available, and any references to specific power tools is not intended to be limiting.

[0020] When activated, for example powered on, a GNSS module of the power tool 105 is in electronic communication with a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) 110, for example a GNSS satellite. Having received a communication from the GNSS satellite, the GNSS module provides a location to a processor at which the power tool 105 is located at a given time. When activated, a SIM card module of the power tool 105 is also in electronic communication with a cellular network 115, which allows for the remote transmission and receiving of messages. The cellular network 115 is also accessible via cellular customer devices 125, such as smartphones or tablet computers.

[0021] The cellular network 115 provides an electronic connection with the Internet 120. The Internet 120 is also accessible via Internet-connected devices 135, such as computers, smartphones, and tablet computers. If the power tool 105 is powered on or otherwise activated, then the power status and location of the power tool 105 may be accessed via a website on the Internet 120, a mobile phone application (“app”), and / or a progressive web app (PWA) 140. The website on the Internet 120, the mobile phone application (“app”), and / or the progressive web app (PWA) 140 may be individually or collectively referred to as “access tools” 140. The or each of the access tools 140 may be protected using a firewall 130 between the or each access tool 140 and the Internet 120. The firewall 130 may be arranged to protect one or more web application servers that run the website or a portal which allows power tool owners to log in and register their power tools. Said website and / or portal may also collect hourly usage statistics and other relevant details of each power tool 105 registered.

[0022] Access to the website and / or app may be granted via the registration of a unique number of the power tool 105, such as a serial number, thereby proving the legitimate ownership by a purchaser of the power tool 105. The unique number may be physically provided on the power tool 105, or stored digitally in a memory and accessible via the processor. Ownership may be transferred on the website and / or app if the power tool 105 is legitimately sold and the sale is confirmed by a registered owner. Registration may be facilitated by the use of a code, such as a quick response (QR) code, on packaging linking of the power tool 105 and providing a link to a registration page.

[0023] Figure 2 shows an exemplary printed circuit board 200 for use in the power tool 105. A printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) is a means of manufacturing electronic circuit boards by attaching various electronic components to a printed circuit board (PCB). This process may involve mounting components onto the PCB, soldering the components in place, and testing the finished product to ensure it meets the required specifications.

[0024] In at least one example, there is provided as part of the PCBA: a power module 205; a processor 210; a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card module 215; and a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) module 220. The power module 205 may comprise a battery and / or a socket for an external power source such as mains electricity. The power module 205 is used to provide power, optionally in the form of electrical power, to the power tool 105.

[0025] The processor 210 is used to receive a command; and enable or disable the power tool 105 according to the received command. To enable a power tool 105 means that the tool may be used for its primary purpose, for example by activating a physical button or trigger on the device. To disable a power tool 105 means that the tool cannot be used for its primary purpose, even if a trigger, button, or other activation means is used.

[0026] In one example, the processor 210 receives a command that the power tool 105 has been activated outside of an approved geofence. A geofence may be created by an owner or authorized user of the power tool 105 using any electronic device in electronic communication with the processor 210 via the SIM card module, for example an Internet-connected smartphone or laptop. The connection may be facilitated by a website and / or a dedicated app installed on the smartphone. The geofence may be set by the user such that the area within the geofence is an area in which the power tool 105 should be operational, for example a site on which the user is planning to do construction work.

[0027] However, if the power tool 105 is activated outside of the geofence, the processor 210 may disable the power tool 105 such as by restricting power to the power tool 105 such that the primary function of the power tool 105 cannot be performed. This may provide a deterrent to theft of the power tool 105. The power tool 105 may be hardware blocked via software to prevent the chance of hacking or cracking. This would stop the movement of the power tool by which it needs to operate, for example the rotation of a spinning blade of an electric saw would be stopped thereby preventing the electric saw from being used for its primary purpose.

[0028] The SIM card 215 module comprises an embedded SIM (eSIM) and / or a receiving socket for a SIM card. A SIM card, optionally included in the SIM card module 215 either as a separate component or as an eSIM, comprises a microchip utilized within the mobile device to store and provide data that identifies the device on a wireless network such as a cellular network. When the power tool 105 is powered on, the SIM card 215 allows the power tool 105 to connect to and authenticate with the cellular network, enabling access to various communication services including voice and data. Information contained within the SIM card may include details such as a unique identification number, and the name and location of a service provider or issuing body of the SIM card. The SIM card may also feature a small amount of memory for storing personal data, such as next of kin contacts. In some examples, the SIM card may be removed and replaced, thereby allowing users to switch between devices or carriers without having to transfer data.

[0029] By using a cellular network, the power tool 105 may be configured to work immediately once purchased, without complex setup required. Near-total coverage globally is also provided without the need to set up or connect to a local area network, regardless of whether the work to be performed is indoors, outdoors, and / or mobile. Further, no external physical devices are required for controlling or locking any of the power tools 105.

[0030] By contrast, some alternative arrangements use industrial, scientific, and medical (ISM) networks, Bluetooth, near field communications (NFCs), or Local Area Networks. Using cellular communications directly with the power tool allows for a much greater geographical range than using a simple remote control disabling device, and also allows for a number of different devices to perform the enablement or disabling of the power tool 105 according to much more complex rules.

[0031] The registering of the SIM card used in the SIM card module 215 of the power tool 105, or any other registering of a unique code number, allows for manufacturers to acquire purchaser information from the registration process and subsequent ongoing usage information from the power tool 105 (assuming end-user agreement). This will allow for up-sell and cross-sell opportunities by the manufacturer and / or their agents. This will allow the monitoring of wear and tear of consumables within the device based on hours of usage, and the subsequent sale of spare parts and consumable parts where and when appropriate based on these usage statistics.

[0032] The GNSS module 220, optionally in the form of a GPS module, is used to determine the device's geographic location. This module utilizes satellite signals to triangulate the device's position on the surface of the Earth, and may also incorporate additional technologies such as WiFi and cellular networks to improve accuracy. The GNSS module 220 may be integrated into the hardware of the power tool 105, and may be used by a wide range of applications, including one or more of geofencing, navigation, location tracking, and / or location-based services. In addition to providing location information, the GNSS module 220 may also be used to determine the velocity, altitude, and direction of travel of a power tool 105, for example so as to detect a theft in progress. The ability to accurately and reliably determine a device's location has numerous practical applications, including navigation to and from the tool, location tracking, geofencing, and location-based marketing.

[0033] By providing one or more of the modules in the form of a PCBA 200, complex electronic circuits may be provided in a small, compact form factor. This allows for the integration of electronic circuits into a wider range of products, including industrial equipment. The use of PCBA 200 also allows for the mass production of the required electronic circuits, thereby providing a cost-effective solution for companies looking to produce a large number of power tools 105 according to the arrangement as described herein. A PCBA 200 may also allow for the easy repair and modification of electronic circuits, as individual components can be easily replaced or added as needed. A potential thief may also be unable to simply remove the or each module from the power tool 105, as all of the required modules are printed onto the circuit board itself, and so by removing a module the power tool 105 would cease to function.

[0034] Figure 3 shows a flow diagram of a method for enabling or disabling a power tool 105 remotely. In a first step 305, the power tool 105 is activated. This may comprise the power tool 105 being turned on or otherwise provided with electrical power. The activation of the power tool 105 causes the current location of the power tool 105, obtained from the GNSS module 220, to be wirelessly transmitted via the SIM card module 215 to a remote server in step 310. The remote server is optionally a cloud server.

[0035] Dependent on the current location of the power tool 105, a command is received by the processor 210 via the SIM card module 215 in step 315. The command either instructs the power tool 105 to be enabled or disabled in step 320. For example, if the power tool 105 is within a predetermined geofence, then the command may be to enable the power tool 105 so that it might be used for its primary purpose. However, if for example the power tool 105 is outside a predetermined geofence, and so may have been stolen, the command may be to disable the power tool 105 so that it cannot be used for its primary purpose. For example, if an electric drill has been stolen, then the actual drilling function may be remotely disabled such that a thief is not able to use the power tool 105 for construction purposes.

[0036] In one or more examples, the command received by the processor is also generated by the processor. In such an example, the power tool 105 comprises a memory, in which a geofence and / or other geographic limits of use are stored. Having received a communication from the GNSS satellite, the GNSS module provides a location to a processor in at which the power tool 105 is located at a given time. This location is referenced against a stored approved region and / or set of locations in the memory. If the location of the power tool 105 is outside of the approved region and / or set of locations, then a command is generated and received by the processor to stop the power tool 105 from performing its primary function. However, if the location of the power tool 105 is within the approved region and / or set of locations, then a command is generated and received by the processor to allow the power tool 105 to perform its primary function.

[0037] In one example, a user purchases a new power tool 105. The user registers their new power tool 105 online, using the SIM card or other unique identification code. The user then sets a geofence around their worksite for the day, optionally via their smartphone on a dedicated app or on their computer using a website. Their power tool 105 will then only function within said predetermined geofence. If the power tool 105 is removed from the geofence, for example if it were to be stolen, then it would cease to function. However, if the user so wishes, they may easily change the parameters of the geofence to allow for working at different sites at different times. The changing of the parameters of the geofence may require information that only the user can provide, such as a password or biometric scan.

[0038] Figure 4 shows a schematic diagram of an alternative arrangement 400 of the apparatus in electronic connection with a number of external devices. This arrangement is fundamentally similar to that of Figure 1, with a further inclusion of a companion device 405 in electronic communication with both the power tool 105 and the cellular network 115. The companion device 405 may be in the form of a smartphone, smartwatch, or other electronic mobile device.

[0039] By linking a companion device 405 directly with the power tool 105, a low-power solution may be implemented such that the power tool 105 will only function in the local presence of the companion device 405. This may provide a further level of protection against theft or other unapproved removal of the power tool 105 from a particular area, as well as a prompt to the owner of the companion device 405 if the power tool 105 is more than a predetermined distance away.

[0040] Figure 5 shows a block diagram of a server in electronic communication with the apparatus. In at least one example, the comparison of the location, and hence the determination as to whether the command will be to enable or disable the power tool 105, happens remotely from the power tool 105 itself. In such an example, a server receives in step 505 a location, as well as an identifier of the power tool 105 such as a unique number. The location may have been interpreted from a GNSS satellite 110 by a GNSS module 220.

[0041] In step 510, the received location is compared with one or more predetermined locations associated with the power tool 105 identifier, optionally in the form of one or more geofences. The comparison examines the received location received in step 505 and identifies whether this location is within a predetermined region marked as allowable, for example within a predetermined geofence. A user may set a geofence around their home or place of work, such that if the power tool 105 were to be removed from that geofence then it is may have been stolen and should no longer perform its primary function. In such a case, that particular geofence would be associated with an identifier of that particular power tool 105.

[0042] Once the comparison has been performed, a command is generated by the server in step 515. If the received location received in step 505 is part of a predetermined region marked as allowable, for example within a predetermined geofence as established by the user of the power tool 105, then the comparison of step 510 will result in a command that comprises instructions to a processor to enable the power tool 105. If, however, the received location received in step 505 is part of a predetermined region not considered allowable, for example outside of a predetermined geofence as established by the user of the power tool 105, then the comparison of step 510 will result in a command that comprises instructions to a processor to disable the power tool 105. The command is then transmitted to in step 520.

[0043] In one or more of the examples described herein, one or more of the generation or receipt of a command may be delayed, for example where there is reduced or limited cellular network coverage. In such an environment, the power tool 105 may be set up such that the primary function is enabled for a predetermined amount of time only, and / or the command is generated and / or received when cellular network coverage is improved.

[0044] In one or more of the examples described herein, a user of a power tool 105 is provided with a choice to manually remotely enable or disable the power tool 105. Using a feature in an app and / or website, the user may instruct, via a server, the sending of a command to the processor 210 to enable or disable the power tool 105.

[0045] Figure 6 shows an exemplary computing arrangement used either within or in conjunction with the apparatus. For example, the computing arrangement of this figure may represent a part of a whole of the processor 210 of the power tool 105, and / or any part of any electronic device in electronic communication with the power tool 105.

[0046] There is shown in this figure various components of an exemplary computing-based device 600 which may be implemented as any form of a computing and / or electronic device, and in which embodiments of any arrangement herein may be implemented.

[0047] Computing-based device 600 comprises one or more processors 605 which may be microprocessors, controllers or any other suitable type of processors for processing computer executable instructions to control the operation of the device. In some examples, for example where a system on a chip architecture is used, the processors 605 may include one or more fixed function blocks (also referred to as accelerators) which implement a part of the method 7 in hardware (rather than software or firmware). Platform software comprising an operating system 620 or any other suitable platform software may be provided at the computing-based device to enable application software 625 to be executed on the device.

[0048] The computer executable instructions may be provided using any computer-readable media that is accessible by computing based device 600. Computer-readable media may include, for example, computer storage media such as memory 615 and communications media. Computer storage media, such as memory 615, includes volatile and non-volatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storage of information such as computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules or other data. Computer storage media includes, but is not limited to, RAM, ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technology, CD-ROM, digital versatile disks (DVD) or other optical storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other non-transmission medium that can be used to store information for access by a computing device.

[0049] In contrast, communication media may embody computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data in a modulated data signal, such as a carrier wave, or other transport mechanism. As defined herein, computer storage media does not include communication media. Although the computer storage media (memory 615) is shown within the computing-based device 600 it will be appreciated that the storage may be distributed or located remotely and accessed via a network or other communication link (e.g. using communication interface 610).

[0050] The computing-based device also comprises an input / output controller 630 arranged to output display information to a display device 635 which may be separate from or integral to the computing-based device 600. The display information may provide a graphical user interface. The input / output controller 630 is also arranged to receive and process input from one or more devices, such as a user input device 640 (e.g. a mouse or a keyboard). In an embodiment the display device 635 may also act as the user input device 640 if it is a touch sensitive display device. The input / output controller 630 may also output data to devices other than the display device, e.g. a locally connected printing device (not shown)

[0051] The term “computer” is used herein to refer to any device with processing capability such that it can execute instructions. Those skilled in the art will realize that such processing capabilities are incorporated into many different devices and therefore the term “computer” includes PCs, servers, mobile telephones, personal digital assistants and many other devices.

[0052] Those skilled in the art will realize that storage devices utilized to store program instructions can be distributed across a network. For example, a remote computer may store an example of the process described as software. A local or terminal computer may access the remote computer and download a part or all of the software to run the program. Alternatively, the local computer may download pieces of the software as needed, or execute some software instructions at the local terminal and some at the remote computer (or computer network). Those skilled in the art will also realize that by utilizing conventional techniques known to those skilled in the art that all, or a portion of the software instructions may be carried out by a dedicated circuit, such as a DSP, programmable logic array, or the like.

[0053] Any range or device value given herein may be extended or altered without losing the effect sought, as will be apparent to the skilled person.

[0054] It will be understood that the benefits and advantages described above may relate to one embodiment or may relate to several embodiments. The embodiments are not limited to those that solve any or all of the stated problems or those that have any or all of the stated benefits and advantages.

[0055] Any reference to 'an' item refers to one or more of those items. The term 'comprising' is used herein to mean including the method blocks or elements identified, but that such blocks or elements do not comprise an exclusive list and a method or apparatus may contain additional blocks or elements. 5

[0056] The steps of the methods described herein may be carried out in any suitable order, or simultaneously where appropriate. Additionally, individual blocks may be deleted from any of the methods without departing from the spirit and scope of the subject matter described herein. Aspects of any of the examples described above may be combined with aspects of any of the other examples described to form further examples without losing the effect sought. 10

[0057] It will be understood that the above description of a preferred embodiment is given by way of example only and that various modifications may be made by those skilled in the art. Although various embodiments have been described above with a certain degree of particularity, or with reference to one or more individual embodiments, those skilled in the art could make numerous alterations to the disclosed embodiments without departing from the 15 spirit or scope of this invention.

Claims

1. A power tool, comprising:a power module;a processor;a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card module; anda Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) module; whereinthe power module, processor, SIM card module, and GNSS module are in electronic communication with each other, and further whereinthe processor is operable to:receive a command, via the SIM card module, to either enable or disable the power tool according to the received command.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the power module comprises a battery.

3. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the power module comprises a socket for an external power source.

4. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the power tool is a cordless power tool.

5. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the GNSS module comprises a Global Positioning System (GPS) arrangement.

6. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the command is received via the SIM card module from a cellular network.

7. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the command is received via an Internet connection.

8. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the command is dependent on a location provided by the GNSS module.

9. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the power tool further comprises a unique identification number.

10. The apparatus of any preceding claim wherein the SIM card module comprises an embedded SIM (eSIM).

11. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein one or more of the power module, processor, SIM card module, and / or GNSS is integrated into a printed circuit board assembly (PCBA).

12. A method of remotely enabling or disabling a power tool, comprising the steps of: activating a power tool;obtaining, via a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) module, a location of the power tool;transmitting the location of the power tool;receiving a command dependent on the location of the power tool; and enabling or disabling the power tool, via a processor, according to the received command.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein the step of transmitting the location of the power tool and the step of receiving a command dependent on the location of the power tool is performed via a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card module.

14. The method of claim 12, wherein the step of transmitting the location of the power tool and the step of receiving a command dependent on the location of the power tool is performed via an internal connection of the processor.

15. The method of any of claims 12 to 14, wherein disabling the power tool comprises preventing the power tool from performing its primary function, and wherein enabling the power tool comprises allowing the power tool to perform its primary function.

16. A system, comprising:a power tool comprising:a power module;a processor;a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card module; anda Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) module;a GNSS satellite; anda remote cloud server; whereinthe processor is operable to:receive a command, via the SIM card module, to enable or disable the power tool according to the received command.

17. The system of claim 16, further comprising a companion device in electronic communication with the processor.

18. The system of claim 17, wherein the companion device is one of: a smartphone; a 5 power tool; a laptop; and / or a smartwatch.

19. The system of any of claims 16 to 18, wherein the remote cloud server transmits a command further dependent on a predetermined geofence.10 20. The system of any of claims 16 to 19, wherein the processor is operable to receivethe command via the SIM card module from the remote cloud server.

21. The system of any of claims 16 to 20, wherein the command is dependent on a location provided by the GNSS satellite.

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