Handheld tools

Abstract

The present invention discloses a handheld tool (100) comprising a tool housing (106) equipped with a movable tooling device (105) and a gas generator (20) for operating the movable tooling device (105), wherein the gas generator (20) is located within the tool housing (106) and includes at least one electrolytic cell (30), the at least one electrolytic cell (30) including at least one electrode pair. The electrolytic cell (30) provides oxyhydrogen gas (48) for operating the movable tooling device (105).

Description

【Technical Field】 【0001】 The present invention relates to a handheld tool according to claim 1. 【0002】 Various embodiments of the present invention relate to cordless handheld tools that include tool equipment that is accelerated by oxyhydrogen combustion within the tool before the tool operates in a desired manner. 【Background Art】 【0003】 Typically, in prior art cordless handheld tools, the tool equipment is accelerated by spring force, frictional force or electromagnetic force. These handheld tools have a problem with the weight of the high-power energy storage unit where driving energy is stored before the tooling operation, which makes the handheld tool unattractive for high tool equipment energy (>120 J). Other tools accelerate the tool equipment by gas pressure. The gas pressure is generated by pre-pressurized gas or by combustion of a powder charge or combustion of a mixture of air and fuel gas. These tools generally benefit from a lightweight energy storage unit but have other problems. 【0004】 Gas-spring type pre-pressurized gas tools typically operate at an initial pressure and thus require an airtight tool equipment seal and a large compression volume to suppress compression heating of the gas. This makes these tools complex and bulky for high nail driving energy (>120 J). Pre-pressurized gas tools with a high-pressure gas storage tank enable a small and lightweight design of the tool and enable a very high driving frequency, but the high-pressure gas storage tank is quite expensive and an additional expensive high-pressure compressor is required to refill the storage tank. 【0005】 Gas-powered tools (gas-powered nail guns) that involve internal combustion of an air-fuel mixture also enable high nailing frequency, but the low combustion pressure of the incompressible air-fuel mixture necessitates a large piston diameter, and the high driving energy (>120J) makes the tool bulky. Furthermore, the use of fuel gas as propellant is considered problematic due to its dependence on combustion products and gas cartridges. Propellant consumption is added to the cost per nailing point. Attempts have been made to increase the initial air pressure (supercharging) to increase driving energy. Typical tools using this technique are disclosed in International Publication 13 / 053002 or International Publication 07 / 099819. 【0006】 Gunpowder-operated tools, which drive the tool mechanism using the internal combustion pressure of a gunpowder-filled material, achieve the highest driving energy (up to 600 J) in a compact tool size. This is due to the high combustion pressure and high energy density of the gunpowder-filled material. However, the combustion products are even more problematic than those of gas-powered tools, and the handling of gunpowder-filled materials is often regulated by law. 【0007】 International Publication No. 2005 / 023709 discloses a power tool that utilizes hydrogen from a tank filled with a gas generator including an electrolytic cell. The gas generator includes a base housing in which a switch and a microprocessor are located that control the flow of line voltage to a voltage rectifier. The voltage rectifier supplies a DC voltage to an anode and cathode located in a containment vessel fitted into the base housing. The cylindrical chamber within the containment vessel is divided into a substantially semi-cylindrical chamber by an impermeable divider that allows liquid to flow freely at the bottom of the containment vessel for the free flow of electrons between the anode and cathode. This impermeable divider prevents gas movement once separation occurs. Located in the chamber is the cathode, which, when activated, generates hydrogen from the water in the chamber. When sufficient hydrogen gas is generated by the cathode, the liquid level in the chamber drops, and a liquid level gauge sends a signal to the microprocessor to activate a compressor. Hydrogen gas from a low-pressure hose is compressed in a compressor, and the hydrogen gas under high pressure flows from the compressor to the top of a tank. The tank filled with hydrogen gas under pressure can be removed from the gas generator and used as a fuel source for any number of mechanisms, including lawnmowers, nail guns, and portable power tool systems for operating saws and drills. 【0008】 A drawback of this disclosure is that the gas generator is a heavy, cumbersome, self-contained hydrogen generator with a complex mechanism for filling a tank with compressed hydrogen. Another drawback is that the low combustion pressure of the hydrogen-air mixture, which is close to atmospheric pressure, limits the output of the internal combustion engine. 【0009】 U.S. Patent No. 7,063,247 discloses a gas generator that produces pressurized hydrogen and pressurized oxygen. The compressed hydrogen and oxygen are filled into a hydrogen tank and a second oxygen tank, both of which can be removed from the gas generator and used as a fuel source for any number of mechanisms, including lawnmowers, nail guns, and portable power tool systems for operating saws and drills. By using compressed hydrogen and oxygen in an internal combustion engine, its output is greatly increased, thus enabling small, high-power tools. 【0010】 A drawback of this disclosure is that the gas generator is a heavy, clunky, self-contained hydrogen generator with a complex mechanism for filling a tank with compressed hydrogen and a second tank with compressed oxygen. Another drawback of this disclosure is that the feeding mechanism in a handheld device is complex because both hydrogen and oxygen gases need to be fed in the correct amounts. 【0011】 U.S. Patent No. 7,168,603 discloses a power tool that utilizes hydrogen gas from a gas generator to drive a movable tooling system. The gas generator is located within the tool housing and includes an electrolytic cell, which includes at least one pair of electrodes placed in an aqueous electrolyte solution. The gas generator produces compressed hydrogen by electrolysis, eliminating the need for an external compressor. 【0012】 A drawback of this disclosure is that the output of the internal combustion engine is limited by the low combustion pressure of the hydrogen-air mixture, which approximates atmospheric pressure. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve] 【0013】 An objective of the present invention is to overcome at least one of the drawbacks of the prior art. A further objective of the present invention is to create a lightweight, compact, and highly efficient handheld tool equipped with an alternative energy source that is ergonomically designed and useful. [Means for solving the problem] 【0014】 At least one of these objectives is addressed by the features of the independent patent claim. Other preferred embodiments are described in the dependent claims. 【0015】 In particular, according to aspects of the present disclosure, the object is achieved by a handheld tool comprising a tool housing with a movable tooling apparatus and a gas generator for operating the movable tooling apparatus, wherein the gas generator is located within the tool housing and comprises at least one electrolytic cell, the at least one electrolytic cell comprising at least one electrode pair. Oxyhydrogen gas is produced by the electrolytic cell and used to power the aforementioned movable tooling apparatus. The movable tooling apparatus is propelled by the oxyhydrogen gas, which is a gas mixture of hydrogen and oxygen and is generated in situ within the handheld tool during use. For comparable tool performance, the gas generator is approximately three times lighter than, for example, a brushless electromechanical drive. Additionally, the tool housing, which at least partially houses a moderately sized but efficient electrolytic cell, is constructed to be significantly smaller than the housing of a comparable handheld tool driven by other means. Thus, a portable, lightweight tool is provided. The handheld tool described above is preferably a handheld nailing tool or a handheld tool without propellant. For example, by using a gas generator as an energy source to produce oxyhydrogen, the piston diameter can be reduced, resulting in a smaller tool size, such as that of a handheld nail gun. While the movable piston is in operation, a significant increase in power density is achieved, enabling repeated nail driving under various setting requirements. 【0016】 In an advantageous embodiment, the at least one electrolytic cell comprises a single hollow cell body, thereby including the at least one electrode pair for generating the oxyhydrogen gas. The at least one electrode pair includes a first electrode and a second electrode separated by a nonconductive porous separator. The at least one electrode pair and the nonconductive porous separator form a simple structure within the single cell body. The first and second electrodes are arranged within the hollow cell body such that they form a void at the center of the electrolytic cell. The first and second electrodes may be permeable to the oxyhydrogen gas. This nonconductive porous separator structure allows the oxyhydrogen gas to flow radially toward the void towards the center of the hollow cell body. The nonconductive separator may be impermeable to oxyhydrogen. Alternatively, at least one of the first or second electrodes may be impermeable to the oxyhydrogen gas. The oxyhydrogen gas is guided in plane along the first and second electrodes to the void at the center of the electrolytic cell. 【0017】 Preferably, the oxyhydrogen gas provided is compressed oxyhydrogen gas generated within the hollow tank. No external compressor is required. By burning the compressed oxyhydrogen gas, a high-powered work tool is provided. 【0018】 Preferably, the at least one electrolytic cell contains an electrolyte for generating oxyhydrogen. Preferably, the electrolyte is a liquid electrolyte, such as water or another alkaline or aqueous liquid. Electrolysis of water in the single hollow cell can produce a 2:1 mixture of hydrogen and oxygen gases, i.e., oxyhydrogen gas. The water consumption of the disclosed electrolytic cell is approximately 20 mg at a driving energy of 100 J and approximately 50 mg at a driving energy of 250 J in a handheld nailing tool. The high energy density of the compressed oxyhydrogen gas allows for a compact tool equipment size even at high operating energies. 【0019】 Preferably, at least one additive, such as KOH (potassium hydroxide) or NaOH (sodium hydroxide), is added to the electrolyte to increase its conductivity. Such liquid electrolytes are inexpensive and, in particular, a 30% KOH solution and water provide a wide operating temperature range of -60 to 110°C. Here, the mass fraction between the additive and the electrolyte is important; for example, 1 kg of 30% by weight electrolyte requires 0.3 kg of KOH and 0.7 kg of water. 【0020】 KOH is preferably added to the electrolyte in the electrolytic cell at a concentration of 15-45% by weight, and alternatively, NaOH is preferably added to the electrolyte in the electrolytic cell at a concentration of 10-25% by weight. At these concentrations, the freezing point of the electrolyte is below -10°C. To improve water separation, a suitable defoaming agent may be added to the electrolyte. 【0021】 Alternatively or additionally, polymer electrolytic membranes (PEMs) are used within the electrolytic cell to generate oxyhydrogen gas. PEMs can be introduced to overcome partial load problems, low current density, and low-pressure operation within the electrolytic cell. 【0022】 Preferably, the first and second electrodes are wound to form a reel inside the hollow cell. The first and second electrodes are separated by a non-conductive separator. The reel structure ensures a large electrolytic area within the compact volume of the hollow cell. The electrodes on the plane of the reel are connected to first and second electrode contacts, respectively, for supplying power to the first and second electrodes. The electrodes can be axially offset relative to the non-conductive separator so that each electrode can be brought into contact with the electrode contact. An advantage is that the cell is easy to manufacture. This electrode-separator structure allows the oxyhydrogen gas to flow radially toward the center of the electrolytic cell towards the void. Furthermore, the oxyhydrogen gas can advantageously flow axially toward the edges of the electrolytic cell and toward the center of the electrolytic cell toward the void. 【0023】 In another advantageous embodiment, the first and second electrodes include disc-shaped structures that form a stack within a hollow cell, and the disc-shaped structures have a void at the center of the structure. The first and second electrodes are separated by a non-conductive separator. The first and second electrodes are arranged on individual discs. Several individual discs are stacked on each other's tops, and the electrically non-conductive separator is in any case sandwiched between adjacent discs. This electrode-separator structure allows oxyhydrogen gas to flow radially into the void at the center of the electrolytic cell. Furthermore, the oxyhydrogen gas can advantageously flow axially towards the edges of the electrolytic cell and towards the center of the electrolytic cell toward the void. 【0024】 For example, many flat, disc-shaped tanks connected in series are used. For this purpose, non-porous dipole plates and separator film blanks are alternately stacked. The dipole plates act as the first electrode (anode) for one tank and as the second electrode (cathode) for adjacent tanks. The advantage is that, due to the large number of tanks, the tank current is low for a given gas generation rate. 【0025】 Alternatively, the first and second electrodes include a circular involute structure within a hollow cell, the circular involute structure having a void at its center. The first and second electrodes are connected in parallel and separated by the nonconductive separator. The nonconductive separator is impermeable to oxyhydrogen gas. Alternatively, at least one of the first or second electrodes may be impermeable to oxyhydrogen gas. The oxyhydrogen gas is guided in-plane along the first and second electrodes. The oxyhydrogen gas is guided into the void along the circular involute structure of the electrodes. Since oxygen gas cannot react with the cathode during gas transfer in the electrolytic cell, this structure results in high efficiency in the electrolytic cell. Typically, heat is generated during the gas generation process in the electrolytic cell. When the electrodes are designed with a circular involute structure, improved heat dissipation occurs in the electrolytic cell. 【0026】 Preferably, the circular involute structure includes several sheets, and the several sheets are divided into a first electrode and a second electrode. On the one hand, the first electrode is used as an anode, and the second electrode is used as a cathode. All the first electrodes may be connected in parallel, and all the second electrodes may be connected in parallel. 【0027】 For example, the electrolytic cell consists of many electrodes connected in parallel and bent into the shape of a circular involute with a separator between them. The electrodes are each offset axially so that the electrodes can be easily brought into contact with the electrode contacts. This cell has the advantage of good radial thermal conductivity. In addition, the generated hydrogen-oxygen gas can flow radially along the electrodes into the void at the center of the electrolytic cell, and the electrolyte can be drawn from the hollow cell wall. No backflow occurs, and the electrolyte entrained in the gas flow additionally convects and cools the electrolytic cell. 【0028】 Preferably, the electrodes of the electrode pair are made of stainless steel. Thus, an increased electrolysis efficiency greater than 60% is achieved. Furthermore, the electrodes may include a metal sheet, a mesh of metal wires, such as a plain weave or a metal fiber fleece. A practical and economical electrode is a mesh made of metal wires. For example, a sheet or wire mesh of stainless steel or nickel alloy is beneficial. 【0029】 In an advantageous embodiment, the non-conductive separator includes a porous material, in particular a mesh, cloth or non-woven fabric made of polypropylene (PP) having hydrophilic behavior. The porous separator absorbs the electrolyte by capillary action and distributes it within the electrolytic cell. Preferably, the porous material is chemically resistant to concentrated additives such as KOH or NaOH. Thus, the efficiency of hydrogen-oxygen generation in the electrolytic cell is stable. 【0030】 In an advantageous embodiment, the at least one electrolytic cell includes a power supply. The first electrode and the second electrode are powered by the power supply, thereby providing the electrolytic cell with an anode and a cathode. A DC-DC converter can be used for load adjustment within the electrolytic cell. Advantageously, the power supply is a current source that provides a desired current to operate the at least one electrolytic cell. 【0031】 In particular, the power source is a battery or rechargeable battery connectable to the first and second electrodes of at least one electrode pair. These power sources are inexpensive and easily replaceable. Furthermore, these power sources are safe, well-tested, and can supply different voltages. In particular, by using rechargeable batteries as the primary energy source for the tool, dependence on propellant (fuel gas or gunpowder cartridge) or pressurized air supply is eliminated. 【0032】 In an advantageous embodiment, the gas generator includes a pressure vessel. The electrolytic cell is located within the pressure vessel, and pressurized oxyhydrogen gas can be produced as the oxyhydrogen gas is compressed by electrolysis. This is advantageous for buffering the gas for a more compact gas storage unit. Additionally, this is beneficial for higher power density and efficiency in combustion engines where the oxyhydrogen gas is consumed. The increase in the voltage of the electrolytic cell relative to the internal pressure within the electrolytic cell is up to 3-4% for an oxyhydrogen gas pressure of 25 bar, 4-5% for 50 bar, and 4-6% for 100 bar. The pressure vessel must withstand the oxyhydrogen gas pressure and, more importantly, the pressure from an internal explosion of the oxyhydrogen gas without causing the vessel to rupture. 【0033】 Preferably, the pressure vessel includes a tough and robust steel alloy material for good absorption of energy generated from internal explosions. Furthermore, the pressure vessel containing the material provides good thermal conductivity and good chemical resistance to alkaline electrolytes. 【0034】 Alternatively, the pressure vessel may include a vessel encased in a composite material, preferably a vessel encased in a structural fiber composite, in order to realize a lightweight pressure vessel. 【0035】 The pressure vessel may include an insulator for insulating the pressure vessel from the electrode pair. The insulator includes a first insulating disk for the first electrode contact and a second insulating disk for the second electrode contact. The hollow tank may include an insulating layer on the inside of the hollow tank. The pressure vessel may include a gasket for sealing the electrolytic cell. 【0036】 In an advantageous embodiment, the combustion chamber is provided within the tool housing for burning oxyhydrogen gas, thereby preferably positioned adjacent to the movable tool. Such a combustion chamber arrangement allows the combustion of the oxyhydrogen gas to easily drive the movable tool equipment without unexpected losses. For example, the combustion of oxyhydrogen is clean and rapid, suitable for high combustion efficiency, and in this case, the combustion product is water. The combustion efficiency is about 30% at an initial pressure of 30 bar. The high combustion temperature of oxyhydrogen, about 4000 K, increases the thermodynamic efficiency of the tool equipment drive. 【0037】 Preferably, the diameter of the combustion chamber is smaller than the diameter of the tool equipment, such as the piston. Preferably, the tool is held back in its initial position during gas injection. The reduced diameter of the combustion chamber reduces the tool equipment holding force. The reduced diameter of the combustion chamber also facilitates the integration of a magnetic tool equipment holding system. 【0038】 In an advantageous embodiment, an ignition device is provided to ignite the oxyhydrogen gas in the combustion chamber. The ignition device is preferably located within the combustion chamber. Preferably, the ignition device is a high-voltage source for effective ignition of the oxyhydrogen gas. For example, using oxyhydrogen as the working gas, the ignition temperature is higher than 400°C. Internal combustion of the oxyhydrogen gas in the combustion chamber is initiated, for example, by an electric arc. The combustion reaction rapidly raises the gas temperature to typically 3500K–4500K and increases the gas pressure to about 9–11 times its initial pressure. The combustion pressure is used to accelerate the tooling equipment. The high combustion pressure of the compressed oxyhydrogen gas allows for a compact tooling equipment size even with high operating energy. In a preferred embodiment, the initial gas pressure is about 1–50 bar. 【0039】 In a preferred embodiment, high-temperature combustion products (e.g., water vapor) are partially released into the atmosphere after the tooling equipment has reached the desired position. Further cooling of the combustion products within the combustion chamber and the resulting vacuum from final condensation are used to return the tooling equipment to its initial position. Thus, no additional return mechanism is required for the tooling equipment, and furthermore, this provides a lightweight and inexpensive tool. 【0040】 In an advantageous embodiment, an input valve is connected to the at least one electrolytic cell for introducing the oxyhydrogen gas, and extends from the at least one electrolytic cell, preferably into the combustion chamber. Only a single valve may be used. The input valve is operated to introduce the oxyhydrogen gas from the pressurized storage volume into the combustion chamber. For example, by controlling the valve opening interval, the amount of oxyhydrogen gas is introduced into the combustion chamber. Thus, the energy and operating efficiency of the tooling equipment are controllable. During and after gas introduction, the increased gas pressure in the combustion chamber provides a driving force to the tooling equipment. Preferably, a tooling equipment holding mechanism can be used to hold the tooling equipment in its initial tooling position before ignition. 【0041】 The electrolytic cell includes a gas storage volume section that buffers the oxyhydrogen gas pressure in response to the intermittent gas demand from the gas input valve. The gas storage volume section also functions as an inexpensive, lightweight, and compact energy storage unit for explosive injection operations. The volume of the gas generator, which is not filled with electrolyte, may also contribute to the gas storage volume section. 【0042】 In an advantageous embodiment, a gas pressure measuring device is provided to measure the gas pressure of the oxyhydrogen gas. The oxyhydrogen gas generated in the hollow body of the electrolytic cell has a high initial gas pressure without the need for a further compressor. The oxyhydrogen gas is preferably measured using a single pressure measuring device. The compression of the oxyhydrogen gas is affected by the electrolysis process in the hollow body. Using the gas generator, it is possible to reach pressures of 10 to 100 bar. The high initial gas pressure can provide improved combustion efficiency and improved power density. For example, using an aqueous electrolyte, the oxyhydrogen gas is separated from water and introduced into the combustion chamber from a pressurized storage volume. This provides an inexpensive, lightweight, and compact energy storage unit within the tool. 【0043】 In particular, the gas pressure measuring device is provided to measure the oxyhydrogen gas extracted from the hollow tank. Therefore, the initial gas pressure in the combustion chamber is measured to provide the desired combustion efficiency. In a preferred embodiment, the gas pressure of the oxyhydrogen gas is about 2 to 50 bar. 【0044】 In an advantageous embodiment, a temperature measuring device is provided to measure the temperature of the electrolytic cell. By monitoring the temperature of the electrolytic cell, reliable and safe generation of oxyhydrogen gas is ensured. 【0045】 In an advantageous embodiment, a power-electrical circuit is provided for load adjustment of at least one electrolytic cell. Thus, the generation of oxyhydrogen gas is controllable. In particular, the power-electrical circuit is a buck converter circuit. The buck converter circuit is a simple load regulator that is easily programmable. Preferably, a processor and memory are located within the power-electrical circuit, using a computer program having instructions for controlling the power-electrical circuit. 【0046】 In an advantageous embodiment, the power-electrical circuit is connected to the ignition source. Thus, the ignition can be easily controlled by the power-electrical circuit, and the movable tool equipment operates in a regenerative manner. 【0047】 The alternative or supplemental power-electrical circuit is connected to the valve. The oxyhydrogen gas is regenerative and is introduced into the combustion chamber, and the movable tool equipment operates at a reliable power density controlled by the power-electrical circuit. 【0048】 In particular, the power circuit is connected to the pressure measuring device. Therefore, the gas pressure of the oxyhydrogen gas is measured under controllable conditions. The measurement data is provided for controlling the gas generator. 【0049】 Alternatively or supplementally, the power circuit is connected to a temperature measuring device. Thus, the temperature of the hollow tank is monitored under controllable conditions. The measurement data is provided for controlling the gas generator. 【0050】 In particular, the power circuit is configured to control the ignition device in accordance with the operation of the valve. Therefore, advanced control of the operation of the movable tool equipment at a controlled power density is possible. 【0051】 In advantageous embodiments, additional electrolytic cells are provided, preferably connected in series with at least one of the electrolytic cells. This allows for more efficient generation of oxyhydrogen gas. The required operating voltage for a single electrolytic cell is approximately 2V. With several electrolytic cells connected in series, the operating voltage of the gas generator can be set to the battery voltage, eliminating the need for complex power electronics circuits. Load adjustment preferably requires only a step-down converter circuit. The additional electrolytic cells increase the required electrolytic voltage, but also reduce the electrolytic current and, consequently, the ohmic losses within the gas generator. The advantage is that the current can be reduced for the same gas generation rate, and therefore the ohmic resistance losses are smaller. 【0052】 Preferably, a bipolar contact plate is placed between the first electrolytic cell and a further electrolytic cell to reduce leakage current. Multiple independent spring-loaded contacts provide good contact quality. Preferably, the bipolar contact plate is non-porous, thus increasing the contribution of both electrolytic cells to gas generation, thereby increasing efficiency. 【0053】 In advantageous embodiments, a flame arrestor is provided to improve the safety of the handheld tool. Preferably, the flame arrestor is located between at least one electrolytic cell and the combustion chamber. 【0054】 In an advantageous embodiment, a liquid reservoir is provided, connected to at least one electrolytic cell. The electrolyte, for example, water, is supplied into the liquid reservoir. Therefore, the tool can be used for longer work cycles. Preferably, a pump is provided, if necessary, to transfer the liquid from the liquid reservoir to the electrolytic cell. The electrolyte may always be supplied into the at least one electrolytic cell. 【0055】 In an advantageous embodiment, the hollow body includes a replenishment opening for supplying electrolyte to the electrolytic cell. Thus, continuous operation of the electrolytic cell is possible. Preferably, the replenishment opening is located at one of the first electrode contacts or one of the second electrode contacts. Thus, the replenishment opening is located on the opposite side from the inlet of the gas outlet pipe. 【0056】 In an advantageous embodiment, the at least one electrolytic cell includes a gas extraction tube, which is located within the hollow body of the at least one electrolytic cell. The gas extraction tube is used, on the one hand, to extract oxyhydrogen gas from the hollow body, and on the other hand, to prevent the electrolyte from leaking from the hollow body. Such a gas generator operates continuously regardless of its spatial orientation, which makes the gas generator particularly suitable for handheld tools. Permanent changes in the spatial orientation of the handheld tool during operation are possible without loss of electrolyte. The electrolytic cell is advantageously constructed so that liquid electrolyte is not depleted from either the electrolytic cell or the handheld tool. The handheld tool can be used in any spatial orientation. 【0057】 In an advantageous embodiment, the hollow cell has a length of at least one dimension, and the gas extraction pipe extends over at least one-third to two-thirds of the length of the hollow cell. Thus, the amount of electrolyte in the electrolytic cell can be optimized, and no electrolyte leakage occurs during operation. 【0058】 Preferably, the gas outlet pipe extends over less than 50% of the length of the hollow tank within the void. Thus, the oxyhydrogen gas is efficiently transported out of the void, preventing any electrolyte leakage from the gas generator. Preferably, the gas outlet pipe extends over at least 45% of the length of the hollow tank within the void. Thus, the working gas is ideally transported out of the void, preventing any electrolyte leakage from the gas generator. 【0059】 Preferably, the gas extraction tube is connected to one of the openings of the first or second electrode contact. The oxyhydrogen gas is collected, compressed within the hollow chamber, and led out of the gas extraction tube through the opening of the first or second electrode contact. The electrode contacts electrically connect the first and second electrodes, respectively, to an electrical supply device such as the battery. Thus, the first electrode functions as the anode and the second electrode functions as the cathode. 【0060】 In an advantageous embodiment, the gas extraction tube extends into the void of the reel or the structure. Since the gas extraction tube is connected to only one of the electrode contacts and does not contact other parts of the electrolytic cell, the gas extraction tube is largely exposed into the void. The oxyhydrogen gas is collected in the void and exits the electrolytic cell only through the gas extraction tube. 【0061】 In an advantageous embodiment, a hydrophobic filter is placed in the gas outlet tube. The hydrophobic filter ensures that electrolyte does not escape from the electrolytic cell when there is excess electrolyte in the gas generator. Filters made of sintered or stretched polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polypropylene (PP), or polyethylene (PE) are beneficial due to their high hydrophobicity. 【0062】 The present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the following figures, using examples of embodiments. The list of references is part of this disclosure. 【0063】 Positional indicators such as "up," "down," "right," or "left" should not be understood as limiting, but rather as relating to the corresponding embodiment. 【0064】 Demonstrative pronouns such as "first," "second," or "further" should, in all cases, be understood in relation to the corresponding device and not as limiting or enumerating. 【0065】 To facilitate a better understanding of the present invention, the drawings below are referenced. These are merely illustrative embodiments of the subject matter of the present invention. Provided only for illustrative and teaching purposes and not to limit the present invention, these embodiments are shown and described in sufficient detail so that those skilled in the art can practice or realize the present invention. Accordingly, where appropriate, the description may omit certain information known to those skilled in the art so as not to obscure the present invention. 【0066】 In the diagrams and related descriptions, identical or similarly functioning parts are given the same reference number. 【0067】 The present invention also encompasses the individual features shown in the figures, even if not shown and / or described herein in relation to other features. Furthermore, the term “including” and its derivatives do not exclude other elements or steps. Similarly, the indefinite articles “a” or “one” and their derivatives do not exclude plurals. The functions of any of the features listed in the claims may be performed by a hollow unit. Terms such as “substantially,” “approximately,” and “about” relating to a characteristic or value also define that characteristic or its value more precisely. All reference numerals in the claims should not be understood as limiting the scope of the claims. [Brief explanation of the drawing] 【0068】 [Figure 1] A simplified diagram shows a first embodiment of the handheld tool of the present invention. [Figure 2] A schematic diagram shows a handheld nailing tool using the tools shown in Figure 1. [Figure 3] Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of a handheld gas generator. [Figure 4] A further embodiment of the handheld gas generator shown in Figure 1 is illustrated in a perspective view. [Figure 5] A further embodiment of the handheld gas generator shown in Figure 1 is illustrated in a perspective view. [Figure 6] A further embodiment of the handheld gas generator shown in Figure 1 is illustrated in a perspective view. [Figure 7] A further embodiment of the handheld gas generator shown in Figure 1 is illustrated in a perspective view. [Modes for carrying out the invention] 【0069】 Figure 1 shows a handheld tool 100 of the present invention, which in this embodiment includes a tool housing 106 equipped with a movable tool assembly 105, which is a piston, and a gas generator 20 for operating the movable tool assembly 105. The gas generator 20 is located within the tool housing 106 and includes an electrolytic cell 30, thereby including at least one electrode pair. The electrolytic cell 30 is used to provide oxyhydrogen gas 48 for operating the movable tool assembly 105, which is burned in a combustion chamber 107 within the tool 100. The oxyhydrogen gas 48 is a mixture of hydrogen and oxygen gas produced by electrolysis at the first electrode 33 and the second electrode 35, respectively, when electricity is supplied to the electrodes 33 and 35 by, for example, a battery 50. The temperature of the electrolytic cell 30 is monitored using a temperature measuring device 118 during electrolysis. The gas generator 20 includes a pressure vessel 111. The electrolytic cell 30 is located within the pressure vessel 111 and can produce pressurized oxyhydrogen gas 48 that is compressed by electrolysis. The tool 100 includes an ignition device 108 for igniting the oxyhydrogen gas 48 in the combustion chamber 107. The ignition device 108 is located within the combustion chamber 107 and is a high-voltage source for effectively igniting the oxyhydrogen gas 48. A damping section 104 for the movable tool equipment 105 is located within the combustion chamber 107. 【0070】 The oxyhydrogen gas 48 generated in the gas generator 20 exits the electrolytic cell 30 of the tool 100 via the gas conduit 109 and passes through a gas pressure measuring device 120 for measuring the gas pressure and an input valve 125 for introducing the oxyhydrogen gas 48. The input valve 125 is operated to introduce the oxyhydrogen gas 48 from the pressurized storage volume in the electrolytic cell 30 into the combustion chamber 107. The amount of oxyhydrogen gas 48 introduced into the combustion chamber 107 is monitored by controlling the valve opening interval. 【0071】 Figure 2 shows the tool 100 shown in Figure 1 in the form of a handheld nailing tool 200 for driving nails 102 initially placed in the nail passage 103. The tool 200 includes a tool housing 201, the movable tool equipment 105, and the gas generator 20 for operating the movable tool equipment 105. The tool 200 includes a liquid reservoir 210 for holding water 212. The liquid reservoir 210 is connected to an electrolytic cell 30 via a conduit 211. The electrolytic cell 30 contains KOH as an additive to the water 212. A pump 215 is provided to transfer the water 212 to the electrolytic cell 30. In addition, a check valve 214 is connected between the pump 215 and the electrolytic cell 30 to prevent backflow. 【0072】 The tool 200 includes a power circuit 207 for load adjustment of the electrolytic cell 30, thereby connecting the power circuit 207 to the battery 50. The power circuit 207 is configured to control an ignition device 108 for igniting oxyhydrogen gas 48 in the combustion chamber 107 in response to the operation of the input valve 125, and is further connected to the pressure measuring device 120 and the temperature measuring device 118. 【0073】 The gas generator 20 will be described in detail in Figures 3 and 4. Further embodiments of the gas generators 60, 70, and 90 for the handheld tools 100 and 200 will be described in Figures 5 to 7. 【0074】 Figures 3 and 4 show a gas generator 20 including an electrolytic cell 30 having a hollow body 31 and an electrode pair 32 having a first electrode 33 and a second electrode 35. The first electrode 33 and the second electrode 35 are wound inside the hollow body 31 to form a reel 39. The first electrode 33 and the second electrode 35 are separated within the hollow body 31 by two nonconductive porous separators 37, 38. The electrodes 33, 35 are connected to a first electrode contact 34 and a second electrode contact 36 on the plane of the reel 39 to supply power to the first electrode 33 and the second electrode 35, respectively. The nonconductive porous separators 37, 38 are wound together with the electrode pair 32. The first electrode 33 and the second electrode 35 are positioned within the hollow body 31 in such a way that they form a gap 40 in the center of the hollow body 31. The electrodes 33 and 35 are offset in the axial direction relative to the non-conductive porous separators 37 and 38. 【0075】 The electrodes 33 and 35 are in contact with electrode contacts 34 and 36, respectively. The electrode contacts 34 and 36 are connected to an electrical supply device, in this case a battery 50. When electrically contacted via wiring 51, the first electrode 33 provides the anode and the second electrode 35 provides the cathode. The hollow cell 31 is at least partially filled with water containing KOH (potassium hydroxide) as a liquid electrolyte 45 as an additive. The additive remains in the electrolytic cell 30, while the water is replenished from time to time. The electrically contacting electrodes 33 and 35 generate oxyhydrogen gas 48 as the electrolyte moves toward the void 40. The first electrode 33 and the second electrode 35 are permeable to the oxyhydrogen gas 48. The reel 39 allows the oxyhydrogen gas 48 to flow radially and axially toward the center of the electrolytic cell 30 toward the void 40. The first electrode contact 34 includes a replenishment opening 43 for replenishing water into the electrolytic cell 30. 【0076】 The electrodes 33 and 35 are wire mesh made of stainless steel. The non-conductive separators 37 and 38 include wire mesh made of a porous material, i.e., polypropylene (PP). Alternative materials for the electrodes 33 and 35 or the non-conductive separators 37 and 38 are described above. 【0077】 The electrolytic cell 30 includes a gas outlet pipe 55, which is located within a hollow cell body 31. The gas outlet pipe 55 is connected to the opening 44 of the second electrode contact 36. The hollow body 31 has a length L in at least one dimension, and the gas outlet pipe 55 extends over less than half the length L of the hollow cell body 31. The gas outlet pipe 55 extends into the gap 40 of the reel 39. Since the gas outlet pipe 55 is connected only to the second electrode contact 36 and does not contact any other part of the electrolytic cell 30, the gas outlet pipe 55 is mostly exposed within the gap 40. The oxyhydrogen gas 48 is collected within the gap 40 and exits the electrolytic cell 30 only through the gas outlet pipe 55. 【0078】 The gas generator 20 includes a housing 22 for covering the hollow tank 31, which in this embodiment is the pressure vessel 111. The housing 22 includes an insulator 24 for insulating the housing 22 from the electrodes 33, 35. The insulator 24 includes a first insulating disk 25 adjacent to the first electrode contact 34 and a second insulating disk 26 adjacent to the second electrode contact 38. The hollow tank 31 includes an insulating layer 28 inside the hollow tank 31. The housing includes a gasket 29 for sealing the electrolytic cell 30 (see Figure 3). 【0079】 The gas extraction pipe 55 is further connected to an input valve 125 for introducing the oxyhydrogen gas 48 extending from at least one electrolytic cell 30. By controlling the valve opening interval, the amount of oxyhydrogen gas 48 introduced into the combustion chamber 107 of the movable tool equipment 105 is controlled (see Figure 2). 【0080】 Figure 5 shows a further embodiment of the gas generator 60. The gas generator 60 includes substantially the same structural and functional components as the gas generator 20 relating to Figures 3 and 4. The gas generator 60 additionally includes a second electrolytic cell 65 connected in series with the electrolytic cell 30. The second electrolytic cell 65 is constructed similarly to the electrolytic cell 30, and the first electrode 66 and the second electrode 67 form a reel 68. A non-porous bipolar contact plate 69 is placed between the electrolytic cell 30 and the second electrolytic cell 65 to reduce leakage current. Multiple independent spring-loaded contacts between electrodes 33, 35 and 66, 67 provide good contact quality. 【0081】 Figure 6 shows a further embodiment of the gas generator 70 of the present invention. The gas generator 70 includes substantially the same structural and functional components as the gas generator 20 relating to Figures 3 and 4, but differs in the structure of the electrodes. The gas generator 70 includes an electrolytic cell 75 having a number of first electrodes 76 and a number of second electrodes 77 connected in series. The first electrodes 76 and the second electrodes 77 have a disc-shaped structure and form a stack within a hollow cell body 31, the disc-shaped structure having a void 40 at the center of its structure. For this purpose, in this example, non-porous bipolar plates 74 and separator film blanks 78 made of polyethersulfone (PES) are alternately stacked. The bipolar plates act as first electrodes 76 for one cell and as second electrodes 77 for adjacent cells. The gas outlet pipe 55 extends into the void 40. Since the gas outlet pipe 55 is connected only to the second electrode contact 34 and does not come into contact with any other part of the electrolytic cell 75, the gas outlet pipe 55 is mostly exposed within the gap 40. 【0082】 Figure 7 shows a further embodiment of the gas generator 90. The gas generator 90 includes substantially the same structural and functional components as the gas generator 20 relating to Figures 3 and 4, but differs in the structure of the electrodes. The gas generator 90 includes an electrolytic cell 95 having a number of first electrodes 96 and a number of second electrodes 97 bent into the shape of a circular involute 99, with a non-conductive separator 98 between them, and first electrodes 96 and second electrodes 97 connected in parallel. The electrodes 96, 97 and the separator 98 are offset axially, respectively, so that the electrodes 98, 97 can be brought into contact with the electrode contacts 34, 36. The oxyhydrogen gas 48 is guided into a void 40 along the circular involute structure 99 of the electrodes 96, 97. The gas outlet pipe 55 extends into the void 40. Since the gas outlet pipe 55 is connected only to the second electrode contact 34 and does not come into contact with any other part of the electrolytic cell 95, the gas outlet pipe 55 is mostly exposed within the gap 40. [Explanation of Symbols] 【0083】 20 Gas generators 22 Housing 24 Insulator 25 Insulated disks 26 Insulated disk 28 Insulating layer 29 Gasket 30 Electrolytic cell 31 Hollow tank body 32 electrode pairs 33 32 First electrode 34 First electrode contact 35 32 Second electrode 36 Second electrode contact 37 Separator 38 Separator 39 Reels 40 void 43 Supply opening 44 Aperture 45 Electrolytes 48. Oxyhydrogen gas 50 batteries 51 Wiring 55 Gas outlet pipe Length L 30 60 Gas Generators 65 Electrolytic cell 66 65 First electrode 67 65 Second electrode 68 reels 69 Contact plate 70 Gas generators 74 bipolar plates 75 Electrolytic cell 76 75 First electrode 77 75 Second electrode 78 Membrane 90 Gas Generator 95 Electrolytic cell 96 95 First electrode 97 95 Second electrode 98 Separator 99 Circular Involute 100 tools 102 Nail 103 Nail passage 104 Damping section 105 Tool equipment 106 Tool Housing 107 Combustion chamber 108 Ignition system 109 Gas pipelines 111 Pressure vessel 118 Temperature measuring device 120 Gas pressure measuring device 125 Inlet valve 200 Tools 201 Tool Housing 207 Power circuit 210 Reservoir 211 Conduit 212 Water 214 Check valve 215 Pump

Claims

[Claim 1] A handheld tool (100), preferably a cordless handheld tool or handheld nailing tool (200), comprising a tool housing (201) equipped with a movable tooling device (105) and a gas generator (20;60;70;90) for operating the movable tooling device (105), wherein the gas generator (20;60;70;90) is disposed within the tool housing (201) and includes at least one electrolytic cell (30;65;75;95), wherein the at least one electrolytic cell (30;65;75;95) includes at least one electrode pair, and the at least one electrolytic cell (30;65;75;95) provides oxyhydrogen gas (48) for operating the movable tooling device (105). [Claim 2] The handheld tool according to claim 1, characterized in that the at least one electrolytic cell (30; 65; 75; 95) is made of a hollow cell body (31), and the hollow cell body (31) includes the at least one electrode pair for generating the oxyhydrogen gas (48). [Claim 3] The handheld tool according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the at least one electrolytic cell (30; 65; 75; 95) includes a power source, particularly a battery (50) or rechargeable battery, which can be connected to the first electrode (31; 66; 76; 96) and the second electrode (35; 67; 77; 97) of the at least one electrode pair. [Claim 4] The handheld tool according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the gas generator (20; 60; 70; 90) includes a pressure vessel (111). [Claim 5] A handheld tool according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that a combustion chamber (106) is provided within the tool housing (107) for burning the oxyhydrogen gas (48), and thereby the combustion chamber (106) is preferably positioned adjacent to the movable tool equipment (105). [Claim 6] A handheld tool according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that an ignition device (108) is provided for igniting the oxyhydrogen gas (48) in the combustion chamber (106). [Claim 7] A handheld tool according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that an input valve (125) is connected to the at least one electrolytic cell (30; 65; 76; 95) for introducing the oxyhydrogen gas (48). [Claim 8] A handheld tool according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that a gas pressure measuring device (120) is provided for measuring the gas pressure of the oxyhydrogen gas (18), in particular the oxyhydrogen gas (48) taken out from the hollow tank (31), and / or a temperature measuring device (118) is provided for measuring the electrolytic cell temperature. [Claim 9] A handheld tool according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that a power electrical circuit is provided for load adjustment of at least one electrolytic cell (30; 65; 75; 95), and the power electrical circuit is in particular a step-down converter circuit. [Claim 10] The handheld tool according to claim 9, characterized in that the power circuit (207) is connected to the ignition device (108) and / or the opening valve (125), and in particular to the pressure measuring device (120) and / or the temperature measuring device (118). [Claim 11] A handheld tool according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that a further electrolytic cell (75) is provided, in particular, connected in series with at least one of the electrolytic cells (30; 65; 95). [Claim 12] A handheld tool according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that a flame arrestor is provided positioned between the at least one electrolytic cell (30; 65; 75; 95) and the combustion chamber (107). [Claim 13] A handheld tool according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that a liquid reservoir (210) is provided connected to at least one electrolytic cell (30; 65; 75; 95), thereby preferably a pump (215) is provided for transferring liquid from the liquid reservoir (210) to the electrolytic cell (30; 65; 75; 95). [Claim 14] A handheld tool according to any one of claims 2 to 13, characterized in that the at least one electrolytic cell (30; 65; 75; 95) includes a gas outlet tube (55), and the gas outlet tube (55) is disposed within the hollow chamber body (31) of the at least one electrolytic cell (30; 65; 75; 95). [Claim 15] The handheld tool according to claim 14, characterized in that the hollow tank (31) has a length (L) of at least one dimension, and the gas outlet pipe (55) extends over at least one-third to two-thirds of the length of the hollow tank (31).

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