Lifter for fastener driving tools

Abstract

A rotary-linear lifter for a fastener driving tool is provided having independently movable lifter pins that lift a driver having a driver lug during a lifting stroke. The lifter includes a central lifter shaft that rotates during the lifting stroke, an actuating solenoid, a plurality of lifter pins, and a lifter base. When the solenoid is actuated, the lifter pins protrude from the top of the lifter base, and when the solenoid is not actuated, the lifter pins retract inside the lifter base. Each lifter pin has a set of forward and rearward springs that allow the pin to move longitudinally along the lifter's axis of rotation. If there is interference during the lifting stroke, the individual lifter pin is blocked and will remain mostly inside the lifter base until the lifter rotates the affected pin away from the interference. The lifter pin will then protrude again from the lifter base and be ready to engage with a driver lug.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 331,993, entitled "LIFTER FOR FASTENER DRIVING TOOL," filed April 18, 2022, and Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 451,949, entitled "LIFTER FOR FASTENER DRIVING TOOL," filed March 14, 2023. [Technical Field]

[0002] The technology disclosed herein relates generally to fastener driving tools and is particularly directed to a gas spring fastener driving tool using a rotary-linear lifter. Embodiments are specifically disclosed as a lifter for a fastener driving tool having a plurality of independently movable lifter pins housed in a lifter base, a lifter shaft, and a solenoid for actuating the lifter pins during a lifting stroke.

[0003] The rotary-linear lifter includes a lifter base that houses a shuttle subassembly. The shuttle subassembly includes a plurality of lifter pins, each with a forward and a rearward spring set, an integral shuttle base, and a plurality of retainers. The shuttle subassembly allows each lifter pin to have independent movement due to the configuration of the forward and rearward spring sets. The integral shuttle base and the plurality of retainers secure the lifter pins inside the lifter base, and a lifter cover plate is attached to the lifter base with a plurality of fasteners.

[0004] The rotary-linear lifter also includes a central lifter shaft, a shuttle return spring, a solenoid plunger, and a solenoid. During a lifting stroke, the solenoid is activated, causing the plunger to push the lifter cover plate toward the lifter base, compressing the shuttle return spring. This action momentarily slightly compresses the rear springs of the lifter pins, causing the lifter pins to protrude or extend from the top of the lifter base. In this extended position, the lifter pins can "catch" and "lift" the driver lugs of the driver as the rotary-linear lifter rotates the lifter pins.

[0005] If an interference condition (including jamming) occurs during a lifting stroke, in which one or more of the driver prongs interfere with the typical extension of one or more lifter pins, the affected lifter pin will not extend and will remain inside the lifter base in a mostly blocked position. This behavior is possible because the rear spring of the affected lifter pin may remain compressed in the interference position. As the rotary-linear lifter continues to rotate during the lifting stroke, the pin interference will be cleared and the condition will automatically clear as the force of the plunger pushing against the rear spring will cause the lifter pin to extend from the lifter base.

[0006] At the end of the lifting stroke, the individual lifter pin holding the driver in its ready position remains extended due to physical contact with the driver lug, which imposes a significant externally applied driver load force from that physical contact, overcoming the "retract" load force imposed by that pin's rearward spring. The other extended lifter pin is retracted into the lifter base by the shuttle spring as the plunger returns to its original position. This orientation of the lifter pins remains until the next driving stroke occurs. Once the next driving stroke begins, the entire lifter subassembly begins to rotate, causing its driver lug to "drop" off the extended lifter pin. The extended lifter pin is then retracted by its individual forward spring. The lifter subassembly is ready to complete its driving stroke and then position itself for the next lifting stroke.

[0007] In an alternative embodiment, the lifter pins may be of multi-piece construction, with each lifter pin including an external spring and an internal spring. The lifter pins are located on a shuttle and a lifter base on a central lifter shaft. During a lifting stroke, a solenoid is engaged, which temporarily compresses the internal spring, causing the lifter pin to extend from the lifter base. If there is interference from one of the driver prongs of the driver, the internal spring is compressed so that the majority of the affected lifter pin remains inside the lifter base in a blocked position. Once the interference is resolved, the affected lifter pin extends as the internal spring decompresses.

[0008] At the end of the lifting stroke, the individual lifter pins holding the driver in its ready position remain extended due to their physical contact with the driver lugs, which impose a significant externally applied driver load force from that physical contact. The other extended lifter pins are retracted into the lifter base by external springs as the plunger returns to its original position. This orientation of the lifter pins remains until the next driving stroke occurs. Once the next driving stroke begins, the entire lifter subassembly begins to rotate, causing its driver lugs to "drop" from the extended lifter pins. The extended lifter pins are then retracted by their respective external springs. The lifter subassembly is ready to complete its driving stroke and then position itself for the next lifting stroke.

[0009] STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT none. [Background technology]

[0010] Fastener driving tools for driving nails or staples are common. Typically, some types of tools use a built-in pressurized gas source to drive the nails or staples into a workpiece. The tools are typically hoseless, with no external pressurized gas source, and also typically include a rotary-linear lifter that lifts the driver blade during the return stroke.

[0011] A common problem with these types of tools is that if a jam condition occurs, the driver blade can break off, potentially causing injury to the tool or the human user. To clear the jam, the tool must typically be opened without causing further harm to the tool or the human user. Summary of the Invention

[0012] It would therefore be advantageous to provide a rotary-linear lifter for a hoseless fastener driving tool in which multiple lifter pins can each exhibit independent movement during a portion of the lifting stroke and during the initial stage of the driving stroke.

[0013] Another advantage is to provide a rotary-linear lifter for a hoseless fastener driving tool in which multiple lifter pins can each move independently longitudinally relative to the lifter's axis of rotation.

[0014] Yet another advantage is the provision of a rotary-linear lifter for a hoseless fastener driving tool in which multiple lifter pins each include a set of forward springs and a set of rearward springs, thereby allowing individual movement of each lifter pin with mechanical bias as needed to lift the driver to accomplish a lifting stroke, overcome a jam condition, or move to a non-interfering position for a driving stroke.

[0015] Yet another advantage is the provision of a rotary-linear lifter for a hoseless fastener driving tool in which multiple lifter pins each include an external spring set and an internal spring set, thereby allowing individual movement of each lifter pin with mechanical bias as needed to lift the driver to accomplish a lifting stroke, or to move to a non-interfering position to overcome a jam condition or perform a driving stroke.

[0016] Additional advantages and other novel features will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon examination of the following or may be learned by practice of the techniques disclosed herein.

[0017] To achieve these and other advantages, according to one aspect, a lifter for a fastener driving tool includes: a lifter shaft including a first end and a second end and a longitudinal axis extending between the first end and the second end; a linear actuator disposed proximate the first end of the lifter shaft; a lifter assembly, the lifter assembly including: a first cover disposed proximate the second end of the lifter shaft, the first cover having a first plurality of openings proximate an outer periphery of the first cover; a second cover disposed proximate a solenoid, the second cover having a second plurality of openings proximate an outer periphery of the second cover; and a solenoid, the second cover being in mechanical communication with at least one of the first cover and the second cover; and a solenoid that provides a force in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the lifter shaft, the linear actuator and the second cover being in mechanical communication with the lifter shaft. and a lifter assembly including at least one return spring in mechanical communication with at least one of the covers; and a plurality of lifter pins seated within a second plurality of openings and movable in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis, the lifter assembly including: (i) a first plurality of lifter pin springs mechanically biasing each of the plurality of lifter pins to move through at least one of the first plurality of openings in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis to an extended position for a lifting stroke by the lifter assembly; and (ii) a second plurality of lifter pin springs mechanically biasing each of the plurality of lifter pins to move in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis to a retracted position opposite the extended position for a driving stroke by the lifter assembly.

[0018] According to another aspect, a lifter for a fastener driving tool includes a lifter shaft including a first end and a second end and having a longitudinal axis extending between the first end and the second end; a linear actuator disposed proximate the first end of the lifter shaft; a lifter assembly including a first holder disposed proximate the second end of the lifter shaft, the first holder having a first plurality of openings, the first holder having a first plurality of openings arranged in a circular pattern; and a second holder disposed proximate the linear actuator. the second holder having a second plurality of openings, the second plurality of openings being arranged in a circular pattern; a lifter shaft in mechanical communication with at least one of the first holder and the second holder; at least one return spring providing a force in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the lifter shaft and in mechanical communication with the linear actuator and at least one of the second holder; a plurality of lifter pins seated within the second plurality of openings and movable in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis; and a plurality of lifter pins extending in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis. a lifter assembly including: a plurality of lifter pin springs biasing in a direction substantially parallel to the adaxial axis, each of the lifter pins (i) being mechanically biased to move through one of a first plurality of openings to an extended position for a lifting stroke by the lifter assembly, and (ii) being mechanically biased to move to a retracted position for a driving stroke by the lifter assembly; and (iii) each of the plurality of lifter pins being movable to a blocking position at the start of the lifting stroke; and a driver having a path of movement substantially perpendicular to the lifter longitudinal axis, the driver including a plurality of protrusions along at least one longitudinal edge of the driver, the lifter pins in the extended position being positioned in physical contact with the driver protrusions to move the driver toward the ready position as the lifter assembly rotates; wherein: (a) when no interference condition exists between a properly aligned driver and any of the lifter pins, each of the plurality of lifter pins is moved to the extended position at the start of the lifting stroke;or (b) if an interference condition exists between the misaligned driver and at least one of the lifter pins, at the beginning of the lifting stroke, at least one of the lifter pins exhibits independent movement and is moved to a blocking position, in which at least one of the lifter pins does not move fully to the extended position.

[0019] According to yet another aspect, a method for lifting a driver for use in a fastener driving tool includes the steps of: providing a lifter shaft including a first end and a second end, the lifter shaft having a longitudinal axis extending between the first end and the second end; providing a linear actuator disposed proximate the first end of the lifter shaft; and providing a lifter assembly, the lifter assembly comprising a first holder disposed proximate the second end of the lifter shaft, the first holder having a first plurality of openings and a first plurality of openings. a first holder, the openings being arranged in a circular pattern; a second holder disposed proximal to the linear actuator, the second holder having a second plurality of openings, the second plurality of openings being arranged in a circular pattern; a lifter shaft in mechanical communication with at least one of the first holder and the second holder; at least one return spring providing a force in a direction substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the lifter shaft, the return spring in mechanical communication with at least one of the linear actuator and the second holder; a lifter assembly including: a plurality of lifter pins seated within a plurality of openings and movable in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis; and a plurality of lifter pin springs biasing each of the lifter pins in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis, each of the lifter pins (i) biasing at least one of the lifter pins to move through one of the first plurality of openings to an extended position for a lifting stroke by the lifter assembly, (ii) biasing at least one of the lifter pins to move to a retracted position for a driving stroke by the lifter assembly, and (iii) biasing an individual of the plurality of lifter pins to move to a blocked position where it is only partially extended if any of the individual lifter pins of the plurality of lifter pins is blocked due to an interference condition at an initial stage of the lifting stroke; and providing a driver having a path of movement substantially perpendicular to the lifter longitudinal axis, the driver including a plurality of protrusions along at least one longitudinal edge of the driver, whereby the lifter pins in the extended position:and providing a driver in physical contact with the driver protrusion to move the driver toward a ready position as the lifter assembly rotates, wherein the method (a) moves each of the plurality of lifter pins to an extended position at the beginning of a lifting stroke if no interference condition exists between a properly aligned driver and any of the lifter pins, or (b) allows at least one of the lifter pins to exhibit independent movement at the beginning of a lifting stroke if an interference condition exists between a misaligned driver and at least one of the lifter pins, thereby moving the independently movable lifter pin to a blocked position where it is only partially extended.

[0020] According to yet another aspect, a lifter for a fastener driving tool includes a lifter shaft including a first end and a second end and a longitudinal axis extending between the first end and the second end; a solenoid disposed proximate the first end of the lifter shaft and including a movable plunger; and a lifter assembly including a hollow barrel having a first cover disposed proximate the second end of the lifter shaft, the first cover having a first plurality of openings proximate an outer periphery of the first cover; a second cover disposed proximate the solenoid, the second cover having a second plurality of openings proximate an outer periphery of the second cover, the lifter shaft being in mechanical communication with at least one of the first cover and the second cover; and a second cover seated within the second plurality of openings and movable in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis. A lifter is provided, comprising: a plurality of lifter pins; and a movable shuttle subassembly, the movable shuttle subassembly including a shuttle base that substantially houses the plurality of lifter pins; and a return spring that provides a force in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the lifter shaft and is in mechanical communication with at least one of the plunger and the shuttle base; wherein during a lifting stroke, a solenoid is activated, the plunger is pushed toward the second end, and the return spring is compressed toward the second end, causing at least a majority of the plurality of lifter pins to protrude from a first plurality of openings in the first cover; and during a driving stroke, the solenoid is not activated, and the plunger is moved by the return spring to a position more proximal to the first end, and the plurality of lifter pins are substantially housed inside the hollow barrel so as not to interfere with the driving stroke.

[0021] According to a further aspect, a lifter for a fastener driving tool includes a rotatable lifter shaft including a first end and a second end and a longitudinal axis extending between the first end and the second end; a linear actuator disposed proximate the first end of the lifter shaft; a rotatable lifter assembly, the rotatable lifter assembly including: a first cover disposed proximate the second end of the lifter shaft, the first cover having a first plurality of openings proximate an outer periphery of the first cover; and a movable second cover disposed proximate the linear actuator, the second cover including a plurality of hollow cylinders having openings proximate an outer periphery of the second cover, the lifter shaft being in mechanical communication with at least one of the first cover and the second cover; and a movable second cover disposed proximate the linear actuator, the movable second cover providing a force in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the lifter shaft. a rotatable lifter assembly including: at least one return spring in mechanical communication with at least one of the linear actuator and the second cover; a plurality of lifter pins mounted within a plurality of hollow cylinders having openings and movable in a direction substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis; a first plurality of lifter pin springs mechanically biasing each of the plurality of lifter pins to move in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis through at least one of the first plurality of openings to an extended position for a lifting stroke by the lifter assembly; and a second plurality of lifter pin springs mechanically biasing each of the plurality of lifter pins to move in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis to a retracted position opposite the extended position for a driving stroke by the lifter assembly.

[0022] According to yet a further aspect, a lifter for a fastener driving tool includes a rotatable lifter shaft including a first end and a second end and a longitudinal axis extending between the first end and the second end, a linear actuator disposed proximate the first end of the lifter shaft, and a rotatable lifter assembly including a first cover disposed proximate the second end of the lifter shaft, the first cover having a first plurality of openings proximate an outer periphery of the first cover, and a linear actuator. a movable second cover disposed proximal to the actuator, the second cover including a plurality of hollow cylinders having openings proximal to an outer periphery of the second cover, the lifter shaft being in mechanical communication with at least one of the first cover and the second cover; at least one return spring providing a force in a direction substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the lifter shaft and in mechanical communication with at least one of the linear actuator and the second cover; and a longitudinal lifter shaft mounted within the plurality of hollow cylinders having openings. and a driver having a path of movement substantially perpendicular to the lifter longitudinal axis, the driver including a plurality of protrusions along at least one longitudinal edge of the driver, whereby the plurality of lifter pins in the extended position are positioned in physical contact with the driver protrusions to move the driver toward the ready position as the lifter assembly rotates. The lifter is provided such that: (a) if there is no interference condition between a properly aligned driver and any of the plurality of lifter pins, the plurality of lifter pins are each moved to the extended position at the start of the lifting stroke; or (b) if there is an interference condition between a misaligned driver and at least one of the plurality of lifter pins, at the start of the lifting stroke, at least one of the plurality of lifter pins exhibits independent movement and is moved to a blocking position, in which at least one of the plurality of lifter pins does not move fully to the extended position.

[0023] According to yet a further aspect, a lifter for a fastener driving tool includes a lifter shaft including a first end and a second end and having a longitudinal axis extending between the first end and the second end; a linear actuator disposed proximal to the first end of the lifter shaft; a rotatable lifter subassembly including a holder disposed proximal to the linear actuator, the holder having a second plurality of openings; at least one guide disposed proximal to the holder, the at least one guide having a first plurality of openings; and A lifter is provided, comprising: a rotatable lifter subassembly including at least one return spring providing a force in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the lifter; a plurality of lifter pins seated within a second plurality of openings and movable in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis; and a plurality of lifter pin springs biasing each of the lifter pins in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis; and a driver having a path of travel substantially perpendicular to the lifter longitudinal axis, the driver including a plurality of driver protrusions along at least one longitudinal edge of the driver, the driver being disposed proximal to the rotatable lifter subassembly.

[0024] According to an additional aspect, there is provided a lifter for a fastener driving tool, the lifter comprising: a lifter shaft including a first end and a second end and a longitudinal axis extending between the first end and the second end; a linear actuator disposed proximate the first end of the lifter shaft; and a rotatable lifter subassembly including: a holder disposed proximate the linear actuator, the holder having a second plurality of openings; at least one guide disposed proximate the holder, the at least one guide having a first plurality of openings; at least one return spring providing a force in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the lifter shaft; and a plurality of lifter pins seated in the second plurality of openings and movable in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis.

[0025] According to another additional aspect, there is provided a lifter for a fastener driving tool, the lifter shaft including a first end and a second end and having a longitudinal axis extending between the first end and the second end; a linear actuator disposed proximate the first end of the lifter shaft; a lifter subassembly, the guide disposed proximate the second end of the lifter shaft, the guide having a first plurality of openings, the first plurality of openings arranged in a circular pattern; and a holder disposed proximate the linear actuator, the holder a holder having a second plurality of openings, the second plurality of openings being arranged in a circular pattern, a lifter shaft in mechanical communication with at least one of the first holder and the holder; at least one return spring providing a force in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the lifter shaft and in mechanical communication with at least one of the linear actuator and the holder; a plurality of lifter pins seated within the second plurality of openings and movable in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis; and a spring biasing each of the lifter pins in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis. a lifter subassembly including: a plurality of lifter pin springs, each of the lifter pins (i) mechanically biased to move through one of a first plurality of openings to an extended position for a lifting stroke by the lifter subassembly; and (ii) mechanically biased to move to a retracted position for a driving stroke by the lifter subassembly; and (iii) a plurality of lifter pin springs, each of the plurality of lifter pins being movable to a blocking position at an initial stage of the lifting stroke; and a driver having a path of movement substantially perpendicular to a lifter shaft longitudinal axis, the driver including a plurality of protrusions along at least one longitudinal edge of the driver, the lifter pins in the extended position being positioned in physical contact with the driver protrusions to move the driver toward a ready position as the lifter subassembly rotates; wherein: (a) when an interference condition exists between a misaligned driver and at least one of the lifter pins, at an initial stage of the lifting stroke, at least one of the plurality of lifter pins exhibits independent movement;A lifter is provided that (a) does not move fully to an extended position, but instead moves to a blocking position, and (b) at least one of the plurality of lifter pins in the blocking position can continue to move along a surface of the driver as the lifter subassembly rotates until it reaches an unblocking position, at which point at least one of the plurality of lifter pins contacts at least one of the plurality of protrusions on the driver and begins to push the driver into a lifting stroke.

[0026] According to yet another additional aspect, a lifter for a fastener driving tool includes a rotatable lifter shaft including a first end and a second end and a longitudinal axis extending between the first end and the second end; a linear actuator disposed proximate the first end of the lifter shaft; a rotatable lifter subassembly, the rotatable lifter subassembly including: a first cover disposed proximate the second end of the lifter shaft, the first cover having a first plurality of openings proximate an outer periphery of the first cover; a movable second cover disposed proximate the linear actuator, the second cover including a plurality of hollow cylinders having openings proximate an outer periphery of the second cover, the lifter shaft being in mechanical communication with at least one of the first cover and the second cover; and a plurality of hollow cylinders configured to provide a force in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the lifter shaft and in mechanical communication with at least one of the linear actuator and the second cover. and a rotatable lifter subassembly including: at least one return spring; a plurality of lifter pins mounted within a plurality of hollow cylinders having openings and movable in a direction substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis; and a driver having a path of movement substantially perpendicular to the lifter longitudinal axis, the driver including a plurality of protrusions along at least one longitudinal edge of the driver such that the plurality of lifter pins in the extended position are positioned in physical contact with the driver protrusions and move the driver toward a ready position as the lifter subassembly rotates, wherein at the end of a lifting stroke, one of the plurality of lifter pins is held in the extended position by physically contacting one of the plurality of protrusions of the driver and holding the driver until a new driving stroke is initiated, and at the end of the lifting stroke, other of the plurality of lifter pins are moved to a retracted position to clear the driver for the new driving stroke.

[0027] Still other advantages will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description and drawings, in which a preferred embodiment in one of the best modes contemplated for carrying out the present technology is described and shown. As will be understood, the technology disclosed herein is capable of other and different embodiments, and its several details are capable of modification in various obvious aspects, all without departing from the principles thereof. Accordingly, the drawings and descriptions are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not restrictive. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0028] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form a part of this specification, illustrate several aspects of the technology disclosed herein and, together with the description and claims, serve to explain the principles of the technology.

[0029] [Figure 1] 1 is a right perspective view of a "first embodiment" rotary-linear lifter for a fastener driving tool constructed in accordance with the principles of the technology disclosed herein; FIG.

[0030] [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a left side view of the lifter of FIG. 1 with the lifter pins unextended.

[0031] [Figure 3] 2 is a left side view of the lifter of FIG. 1 with the lifter pins extended.

[0032] [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the lifter of FIG.

[0033] [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the shuttle subassembly of the lifter of FIG. 1.

[0034] [Figure 6-A] 2 is a front elevation view of the driver and lifter of FIG. 1 in a ready position at the end of the lifting stroke, with a single lifter pin holding the driver.

[0035] [Figure 6-B] FIG. 6B is a left side elevational view of the driver and lifter of FIG. 6A.

[0036] [Figure 6-C] FIG. 6B is a perspective view of the driver and lifter of FIG. 6A.

[0037] [Figure 7-A] 2 is a front elevational view of the driver and lifter of FIG. 1 in position (with the lifter rotating) when the driver has dropped off the pin and is ready to drive the fastener.

[0038] [Figure 7-B] FIG. 7B is a left side elevational view of the driver and lifter of FIG. 7A.

[0039] [Figure 7-C] FIG. 7B is a perspective view of the driver and lifter of FIG. 7A.

[0040] [Figure 8-A] 2 is a front elevation view of the driver and lifter of FIG. 1 at the beginning of the driving stroke.

[0041] [Figure 8-B] FIG. 8B is a left side elevational view of the driver and lifter of FIG. 8A.

[0042] [Figure 8-C] FIG. 8B is a perspective view of the driver and lifter of FIG. 8A.

[0043] [Figure 9-A] 2 is a front elevation view of the driver and lifter of FIG. 1 at the end of the driving stroke.

[0044] [Figure 9-B] FIG. 9-B is a left side elevational view of the driver and lifter of FIG. 9-A.

[0045] [Figure 9-C]FIG. 9B is a perspective view of the driver and lifter of FIG. 9A.

[0046] [Figure 10-A] 2 is a front elevational view of the driver and lifter of FIG. 1 with the driver intervening at the start of the lifting stroke.

[0047] [Figure 10-B] FIG. 10-B is a left side elevational view of the driver and lifter of FIG. 10-A.

[0048] [Figure 10-C] FIG. 10B is a perspective view of the driver and lifter of FIG. 10-A.

[0049] [Figure 11-A] 2 is a front elevational view of the driver and lifter of FIG. 1 after the driver has cleared interference at the start of the lifting stroke. FIG.

[0050] [Figure 11-B] FIG. 11-B is a left side elevational view of the driver and lifter of FIG. 11-A.

[0051] [Figure 11-C] FIG. 11B is a perspective view of the driver and lifter of FIG. 11A.

[0052] [Figure 12] FIG. 2 is a front view of the lifter of FIG.

[0053] [Figure 13] 13 is a cutaway view of the lifter of FIG. 12 taken along line 13-13, with a single lifter pin holding the driver.

[0054] [Figure 14] FIG. 2 is a front view of the lifter of FIG.

[0055] [Figure 15]15 is a cutaway view of the lifter of FIG. 14 taken along line 15-15 with a single lifter pin blocked due to interference with a driver and the other lifter pin extended.

[0056] [Figure 16] FIG. 2 is a front view of the lifter of FIG.

[0057] [Figure 17] 17 is a cutaway view of the lifter of FIG. 16 along line 17-17 with all of the lifter pins extended and ready to begin the lifting stroke.

[0058] [Figure 18] FIG. 2 is a front view of the lifter of FIG.

[0059] [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a cutaway view of the lifter of FIG. 18 along line 19-19 with all lifter pins retracted.

[0060] [Figure 20] 1 is a right perspective view of a first alternative embodiment (or "second embodiment") rotary-linear lifter for a fastener driving tool constructed in accordance with the principles of the technology disclosed herein; FIG.

[0061] [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a right side view of the lifter of FIG. 20 with the lifter pins not extended.

[0062] [Figure 22] FIG. 21 is a right side view of the lifter of FIG. 20 with the lifter pins extended.

[0063] [Figure 23] FIG. 21 is an exploded view of the lifter of the first alternative embodiment of FIG. 20.

[0064] [Figure 24] FIG. 21 is an exploded view of one of the lifter pin subassemblies of the first alternative embodiment lifter of FIG. 20.

[0065] [Figure 25-A] FIG. 21 is a front elevational view of the driver and lifter of the first alternative embodiment of FIG. 20, with the driver intervening at the start of the lifting stroke.

[0066] [Figure 25-B] FIG. 25-B is a left side elevational view of the driver and lifter of the first alternative embodiment of FIG. 25-A.

[0067] [Figure 25-C] FIG. 25-B is a perspective view of the driver and lifter of the first alternative embodiment of FIG. 25-A.

[0068] [Figure 26-A] 21 is a front elevational view of the driver and lifter of the first alternative embodiment of FIG. 20 after the driver has cleared interference at the start of the lifting stroke.

[0069] [Figure 26-B] FIG. 26-B is a left side elevational view of the driver and lifter of the first alternative embodiment of FIG. 26-A.

[0070] [Figure 26-C] FIG. 26-B is a perspective view of the driver and lifter of the first alternative embodiment of FIG. 26-A.

[0071] [Figure 27-A] 21 is a front elevation view of the driver and lifter of the first alternative embodiment of FIG. 20 in the ready position at the end of the lifting stroke, with a single lifter pin holding the driver.

[0072] [Figure 27-B] FIG. 27-B is a left side elevational view of the driver and lifter of the first alternative embodiment of FIG. 27-A.

[0073] [Figure 27-C] FIG. 27-B is a perspective view of the driver and lifter of the first alternative embodiment of FIG. 27-A.

[0074] [Figure 28-A] 21 is a front elevation view of the driver and lifter of the first alternative embodiment of FIG. 20 in position (with the lifter rotating) when the driver has dropped off the pin and is ready to drive the fastener.

[0075] [Figure 28-B] FIG. 28-B is a left side elevational view of the driver and lifter of the first alternative embodiment of FIG. 28-A.

[0076] [Figure 28-C] FIG. 28-B is a perspective view of the driver and lifter of the first alternative embodiment of FIG. 28-A.

[0077] [Figure 29-A] 21 is a front elevation view of the driver and lifter of the first alternative embodiment of FIG. 20 at the beginning of the driving stroke.

[0078] [Figure 29-B] FIG. 29-B is a left side elevational view of the driver and lifter of the first alternative embodiment of FIG. 29-A.

[0079] [Figure 29-C] FIG. 29-B is a perspective view of the driver and lifter of the first alternative embodiment of FIG. 29-A.

[0080] [Figure 30-A] 21 is a front elevation view of the driver and lifter of the first alternative embodiment of FIG. 20 at the end of the driving stroke.

[0081] [Figure 30-B] FIG. 30-B is a left side elevational view of the driver and lifter of the first alternative embodiment of FIG. 30-A.

[0082] [Figure 30-C] FIG. 30-B is a perspective view of the driver and lifter of the first alternative embodiment of FIG. 30-A.

[0083] [Figure 31-A]FIG. 21 is a right side view of one of the lifter pins of the first alternative embodiment lifter of FIG. 20, with the lifter pin retracted.

[0084] [Figure 31-B] FIG. 31-B is a top view of one of the lifter pins of the first alternative embodiment lifter of FIG. 31-A.

[0085] [Figure 31-C] FIG. 31-C is a cutaway view of the lifter of FIG. 31-B along line 31-31 with the lifter pins retracted.

[0086] [Figure 32-A] FIG. 21 is a right side view of the lifter pins of the first alternative embodiment lifter of FIG. 20 with the lifter pins extended.

[0087] [Figure 32-B] FIG. 32-B is a top view of the lifter pin of the first alternative embodiment lifter of FIG. 32-A.

[0088] [Figure 32-C] FIG. 32-C is a cutaway view of the lifter of FIG. 32-B along line 32-32, with the lifter pins extended.

[0089] [Figure 33] 21 is a right-side cutaway view of the lifter of FIG. 20, with a single lifter pin blocked due to interference with at least one driver protrusion (not shown).

[0090] [Figure 34] FIG. 21 is a right-side cutaway view of the lifter of FIG. 20 with all lifter pins extended.

[0091] [Figure 35] 21 is a right-side cutaway view of the lifter of FIG. 20 with a single lifter pin extended and holding a driver.

[0092] [Figure 36]FIG. 21 is a right-side cutaway view of the lifter of FIG. 20 with all lifter pins retracted.

[0093] [Figure 37-A] FIG. 21 is a right-side cutaway view of the lifter of FIG. 20 with the lifter in a retracted position and without the lifter pin.

[0094] [Figure 37-B] 21 is a right-side cutaway view of the lifter of FIG. 20 with the lifter in an extended position and without the lifter pin.

[0095] [Figure 38] FIG. 21 is an exploded view of the plunger, shuttle, and snap ring portions of the lifter of FIG. 20.

[0096] [Figure 39] FIG. 39 is an enlarged view of the area of ​​line 39-39 in FIG. 38.

[0097] [Figure 40] 21 is an exploded view of a single lifter pin subassembly of the first alternative embodiment lifter of FIG. 20, along with an assembly view of the entire lifter pin subassembly including the shuttle.

[0098] [Figure 41] 2 is a right-side cutaway view of the lifter of FIG. 1 in the extended position without the lifter pin, spring, and solenoid.

[0099] [Figure 42] 2 is a right-side cutaway view of the lifter of FIG. 1 in a retracted position without the lifter pin, spring, and solenoid.

[0100] [Figure 43] 1 is an exploded view of a second alternative embodiment (or "third embodiment") rotary-linear lifter for a fastener driving tool, constructed in accordance with the principles of the technology disclosed herein. FIG.

[0101] [Figure 44A]FIG. 44 is a right side view of the lifter of FIG. 43 with the lifter pins extended.

[0102] [Figure 44B] 44B is a cutaway view of the lifter of FIG. 44A along line 44B-44B, with the lifter pins extended.

[0103] [Figure 45A] FIG. 44 is a rear view of the lifter of FIG. 43.

[0104] [Figure 45B] FIG. 45B is a cutaway side view of the lifter of FIG. 45A along line 45B-45B, with the lifter pins extended.

[0105] [Figure 46] FIG. 44 is an exploded view of the shuttle subassembly of FIG. 43.

[0106] [Figure 47A] FIG. 44 is a front view of the shuttle subassembly of FIG. 43.

[0107] [Figure 47B] FIG. 47B is a cutaway side view taken along line 47B-47B of FIG. 47A with the lifter pins extended.

[0108] [Figure 47C] FIG. 47C is a cutaway side view taken along line 47C-47C of FIG. 47A, with the lifter pins extended.

[0109] [Figure 48] FIG. 44 is a front elevation view of the driver and lifter of FIG. 43 in the ready position at the end of the lifting stroke, with a single lifter pin holding the driver.

[0110] [Figure 48A] FIG. 48 is a cutaway side view taken along line 48A-48A of FIG.

[0111] [Figure 48B]FIG. 48B is a cutaway bottom plan view taken along line 48B-48B of FIG.

[0112] [Figure 48C] FIG. 48 is a cutaway side view taken along line 48C-48C of FIG.

[0113] [Figure 49] FIG. 44 is a front elevation view of the driver and lifter of FIG. 43 at the end of the driving stroke.

[0114] [Figure 49A] FIG. 49 is a cutaway side view taken along line 49A-49A of FIG.

[0115] [Figure 49B] FIG. 49B is a cutaway side view taken along line 49B-49B of FIG. 49.

[0116] [Figure 50] FIG. 44 is a front elevational view of the driver and lifter of FIG. 43, with the driver interfering at the start of the lifting stroke.

[0117] [Figure 50A] FIG. 50 is a cutaway side view taken along line 50A-50A of FIG.

[0118] [Figure 50B] FIG. 50 is a cutaway bottom plan view taken along line 50B-50B of FIG.

[0119] [Figure 50C] FIG. 50 is a cutaway side view taken along line 50C-50C of FIG.

[0120] [Figure 51] FIG. 44 is a front elevational view of the driver and lifter of FIG. 43 after the driver has cleared interference at the start of the lifting stroke.

[0121] [Figure 51A] FIG. 51 is a cutaway side view taken along line 51A-51A of FIG.

[0122] [Figure 51B] FIG. 51 is a cutaway side view taken along line 51B-51B of FIG.

[0123] [Figure 52] 44 is an exploded view of the plunger, solenoid, and lifter shaft of the lifter of FIG. 43, showing the internal flat portion of the plunger.

[0124] [Figure 53] FIG. 44 is an exploded view of the lifter of FIG. 43 showing the internal flat portion of the plunger. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0125] Reference will now be made in detail to the preferred embodiments of the present invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings, wherein like numerals refer to the same elements throughout.

[0126] It is to be understood that the technology disclosed herein is not limited in its application to the details of construction and arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The technology disclosed herein is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or carried out in various ways. It is also to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of "including," "comprising," or "having," and variations thereof, herein is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof, as well as additional items. Unless otherwise limited, the terms "connected," "coupled," or "mounted," and variations thereof, herein are used broadly and include direct and indirect connections, couplings, or attachments. Furthermore, the terms "connected" or "coupled," and variations thereof, are not limited to physical or mechanical connections or couplings. Additionally, the terms "in communication with" or "in communication with" refer to two distinct physical or virtual elements passing signals or information between one another in some manner, whether the signal or information transmission is direct or whether there are additional physical or virtual elements between them that are also involved in the transmission of the signal or information. Additionally, the term "in communication with" can also refer to a mechanical, hydraulic, or pneumatic system in which one end of the "communication" (the "first end") can be the "cause" of a certain kinetic force (mechanical movement or hydraulic or pneumatic change of state) that occurs, and the other end of the "communication" (the "second end") can be "affected" by that movement / change of state, regardless of whether there are intermediate components between the "first end" and "second end."If a product has moving parts that depend on magnetic fields or somehow detects changes in magnetic fields, or if data is passed from one electronic device to another through the use of magnetic fields, then these situations can be referred to as being in "magnetic communication" with each other, where one end of the "communication" can induce a magnetic field and the other end can receive and be affected by (or otherwise affected by) that magnetic field.

[0127] The terms "first" or "second" preceding an element name, e.g., first entry, second entry, etc., are used for distinguishing purposes to distinguish among similar or related elements, results, or concepts and are not necessarily intended to denote order, nor are the terms "first" or "second" intended to exclude the inclusion of additional similar or related elements, results, or concepts, unless otherwise indicated.

[0128] First embodiment

[0129] Referring now to FIG. 1 , a lifter subassembly (“S / A”) for a fastener-driving tool is generally designated by the reference numeral 70, with the lifter S / A being a rotary-linear lifter. A lifter shaft 79 and power transmission subassembly (not shown) rotate the lifter S / A 70. A lifter base 74, preferably a hollow cylinder or barrel, is attached to a lifter end plate 71 (sometimes referred to herein as a “first cover” or simply a “guide”) that is attached to the lifter shaft 79 and covers a shuttle subassembly (“S / A”) 150 (see FIG. 4 ), sometimes referred to herein as a “lifter extension subassembly.” It will be understood that the lifter base 74 and the lifter end plate / guide 71 can be formed as a single piece, if desired. The lifter of FIG. 1 is designed to operate as part of a fastener-driving tool, and it will be understood that the lifter is part of a machine, sometimes referred to herein as a “fastener-driving machine.”

[0130] The lifter base 74 is proximal to the second end of the lifter shaft 79. The lifter end plate 71 ("guide") has a plurality of through holes 139 proximal to the periphery of the lifter base (i.e., near the outer periphery of the end plate / guide 71) and a central opening 180 for the lifter shaft 79. In this view, the lifter S / A 70 is positioned on the side closest to the driver (or "driver blade") 62 (not shown in this view). from A solenoid 75 is also attached to the lifter shaft 79 distal from the driver 62. The driver 62 has a plurality of protrusions or teeth 66 (see FIG. 6-A).

[0131] A solenoid 75 is used to actuate a plurality of lifter pins or extensions 72 during the return stroke of the driver 62. FIG. 2 shows the lifter pins 72 in a "retracted" state, which is typically used for the driving stroke of the tool. In the retracted state, the face of the lifter pins 72 is nominally flush with the face of the end plate / guide 71 and is substantially contained within the lifter base 74 (i.e., hollow barrel). FIG. 3 shows the lifter pins 72 in an "extended" state, which is typically used for the return stroke. In the extended state, the lifter pins 72 extend beyond a plurality of through-holes 139. The extended state is typically used for the return stroke.

[0132] Referring now to Figure 2, lifter S / A 70 is shown in a retracted state. In Figure 2, solenoid 75 is not activated and lifter pin 72 is in a retracted position with the face of the lifter pin nominally flush with the face of end plate / guide 71. Lifter pin 72 is visible between lifter first cover ("guide") 71 and solenoid 75. Lower solenoid plunger portion 166 is shown "below" solenoid 75 (in this view).

[0133] Referring now to FIG. 3, the lifter S / A 70 is shown in an extended state. In FIG. 3, the solenoid 75 is activated, causing the lifter pins 72 to protrude from the top of the lifter base (at the end plate or "guide" 71). In this extended state, the lifter pins 72 can interfere with the driver lugs 66 (not shown in this view). During the return stroke (or lifting stroke), the lifter S / A 70 rotates radially with the lifter shaft 79 (i.e., the lifter S / A 70 rotates about the longitudinal axis 185 of the lifter shaft 79). This action rotates the lifter pins 72, allowing each lifter pin to "grab and lift" an individual driver lug or tooth 66 (not shown in this view).

[0134] In some embodiments, the lifter S / A 70 rotates approximately 1.5 revolutions to fully lift the driver 62 back to the “ready position,” where the tool is ready to drive another fastener into a workpiece. The lifter S / A is intended to rotate only as far as necessary to fully complete the lifting stroke (as described further below). The lower plunger portion 166 is pushed “upward” (to the right in this view) by the solenoid 75, thereby pushing the lifter pins 72 into a protruding or extended position from the lifter's first cover (“guide”) 71. Note that while all of the lifter pins 72 are shown extended in FIG. 3 , in some circumstances, one or two of the lifter pins may be blocked by mechanical interference, as described below. However, in a properly operating tool, at least the majority of the lifter pins will be extended in all cases during the initial phase of the lifting stroke.

[0135] Referring now to FIG. 4, lifter S / A 70 is shown in an exploded view. Shuttle S / A 150 is shown, including multiple lifter extensions 72. Shuttle S / A 150 functions as a "holder" for the lifter pins and is mounted inside lifter base 74 at openings 182. A one-piece shuttle base 152 (sometimes referred to herein as a "multiple lifter pin housing") partially houses lifter extensions 72 and more closely "holds" the lifter pins. Shuttle return spring 154 (or "return spring") is mounted inside the open center portion of shuttle base 152, above lifter shaft 79. Note: shuttle base 152 is part of shuttle S / A 150; together, this structure functions as a "holder" for the lifter pins.

[0136] The lifter shaft 79 has a flat portion 158, a keyway 73, first and second ends, and a longitudinal axis 185 extending between the first and second ends. A key 135 is inserted into the keyway 73. A plurality of snap rings 156 are mounted on the lifter shaft 79 proximal to the flat portion 158. A lifter cover plate 76 (sometimes referred to herein as a “second cover,” “second holder,” or simply a “pusher”) is mounted on the lifter shaft 79 and attached to the lifter base 74. The lifter cover plate / pusher 76 is proximal to the solenoid 75. The lifter cover plate / pusher 76 has a central opening 186 and a plurality of spaced-apart through-holes 160 proximal to the outer periphery of the lifter cover plate, and the lifter pins 72 are secured within these through-holes. A pair of locating pins 162 locate the lifter cover plate / pusher 76 relative to the lifter base 74 so that the lifter cover plate rotates with the lifter base. It will be appreciated that the lifter base 74 and the lifter cover plate ("pusher") 76 can be formed as a single piece if desired.

[0137] The lifter first cover / guide 71 and lifter cover plate / pusher 76 function as a "guide" and "holder / pusher," respectively, for the lifter pins 72. The through-holes 139 and 160 are sometimes referred to herein as "openings," and in this illustrated embodiment, these openings are arranged in a circular pattern as seen in an end or front view, such as FIG. 6-A or FIG. 12, with opening 160 in the same position as the lifter pins 72 in that view. Another way to explain the use of these openings is that the lifter pins are seated within opening (153) in one of the holders, and the lifter pins are movable in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the lifter shaft 79. Furthermore, opening 160 in the (second) holder (or "pusher") 76 is aligned with opening 139 in the other (first) holder (or "guide") 71.

[0138] As mentioned above, the shuttle base 152 functions as a "holder" for the lifter pins 72. In the illustrated embodiment, the "holder" 152 has six openings 153 that slidably hold six lifter pins 72. In other words, the lifter pins 72 can be linearly displaced while being "held" by the opening 153 of the holder.

[0139] The lower solenoid plunger portion 166 and the upper solenoid plunger portion 168 comprise a "two-piece plunger" in the illustrated embodiment. The lower plunger portion 166 and the upper plunger portion 168 are preferably constructed from a magnetically susceptible material (e.g., steel, etc.). The lower plunger portion 166 has a central opening 188 with a notch or slot 137 that seats over the key 135, and when fully assembled, the lifter S / A 70 rotates with the lifter shaft 79. (Note: The solenoid 75 does not spin.) A snap ring 164 seats on the upper plunger portion 168. A plurality of fasteners 170 secure the lifter cover plate / pusher 76 (at the first cover / guide 71) to the lifter base 74, thereby securing and receiving the shuttle S / A ("holder") 150. The solenoid 75 has a central opening 190 that accommodates the two-part plungers 166, 168 as well as the lifter shaft 79, with the solenoid 75 proximal to a first end of the lifter shaft 79. It will be understood that the so-called two-part plungers 166, 168 may be made of one-piece construction and therefore may be referred to herein by a single reference number 167.

[0140] 5, shuttle S / A ("holder") 150 is shown in an exploded view. A plurality of forward springs 174 mount to the lifter pins 72 proximal to the shuttle base / holder 152. A plurality of rearward springs 176 mount to the lifter pins 72 proximal to the lifter cover plate ("pusher") 76 (not shown in this view). The forward springs 174 and rearward springs 176 are each constrained to one side or the other of the lifter pins 72 by a plurality of snap rings 172. A plurality of spring retainers 178 mount on the lifter pins 72 proximal to the rearward springs 176 and are attached to the shuttle base / holder 152. The shuttle base / holder 152 has a central opening 184 for the plunger 167.

[0141] The shuttle S / A 150 ("holder") is designed to allow all individual lifter pins 72 to exhibit individual movement in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the lifter shaft 79. Additionally, the lifter pins 72 are individually rotatable. The use of a forward spring 174 and a rearward spring 176 allows each lifter pin 72 to extend and retract individually and as a group. During the driving stroke, the solenoid 75 is not activated, which means the plunger 167 is not activated (see FIGS. 2 and 42). Because the plunger 167 is not activated, the shuttle return spring 154 is decompressed (see FIG. 42). Therefore, the shuttle return spring 154 pushes the shuttle subassembly ("holder") 150 to the right (in this view), thus retracting the lifter pins 72 so that their faces are nominally flush with the face of the lifter end plate (or "guide") 71. In other words, the lifter pin 72 does not interfere with the driver 62 and driver teeth 66 during the driving stroke.

[0142] However, during the lifting stroke (or return stroke), solenoid 75 is activated. Solenoid 75 pushes plunger 167 "up," thereby compressing shuttle return spring 154, which in turn pushes shuttle S / A ("holder") 150 toward lifter end plate / guide 71. The movement of shuttle S / A 150 ("holder") pushes snap ring 172 backward against the spring. 176 , the lifter pins 72 are typically moved past a lifter end plate (or “guide”) 71 so that they protrude beyond the lifter end plate / guide 71 .

[0143] During a typical return stroke, the protruding lifter pins 72 rotate with the lifter S / A 70, "grabbing" individual driver teeth 66 and quickly pushing the driver 62 to the ready position. However, in some cases, a mechanical interference condition (e.g., jamming) can occur in which the driver teeth 66 can interfere with the lifter pins 72. A typical jamming condition is one in which the fastener is misaligned or improperly driven into the workpiece. Another typical interference condition can occur after the driving stroke, in which one or more of the driver teeth 66 simply covers one or more of the lifter pins 72 due to misalignment of the driver, such as can occur when the tool's piston stop is sufficiently worn.

[0144] In a jammed condition, for example, the individual movement exhibited by each lifter pin 72 helps to alleviate the condition. In a typical jammed condition, one or more driver teeth 66 may remain covering or partially covering one or more lifter pins 72. Individual lifter pins 72 not covered by a driver protrusion 66 protrude from the lifter end plate (or “guide”) 71, as described above. Individual lifter pins 72 that are covered or partially covered by a driver protrusion 66 are essentially trapped within the lifter base 74 in a non-extended position (also referred to herein as a “blocked” position). A particular driver protrusion 66 covering a particular lifter pin 72 then compresses the rear spring 176 of that individual lifter pin 72 (and correspondingly, the front spring 174 of that individual lifter pin 72 decompresses).

[0145] When lifter S / A 70 begins to rotate for a lifting stroke, any covered, and therefore blocked, lifter pins 72 do not interfere with driver lugs 66. In other words, such blocked lifter pins cannot perform their typical function of lifting one of the driver lugs. However, once lifter S / A 70 has rotated sufficiently, the blocked lifter pins 72 can extend and join the formation of the other extended lifter pins, thus assisting the lifting stroke.

[0146] This retracting and extending movement of the lifter pins by the front springs 174 and rear springs 176 is parallel to the longitudinal axis 185, rather than radially of the lifter S / A 70. Figures 6 through 11 illustrate some of the conditions described above, and therefore show how the lifter pins exhibit independent movement along the longitudinal axis 185.

[0147] 6-A, lifter S / A 70 is shown in a front view showing the ready position. Solenoid 75 is not activated, and lifter pins 72 are retracted within lifter base 74, except for single lifter pin 134, which retains driver 62. As will be described below, single lifter pin 134 is protruded by a force exerted on it by driver projection 66 that overcomes the spring bias of forward spring 174.

[0148] Referring now to Figure 6-B, a left side view of Figure 6-A is shown. Figure 6-B shows the ready position before the lifter S / A 70 begins to rotate in preparation for the driving stroke (see Figures 7-A through 7-C for the ready position before the driving stroke). As seen in Figures 6-A and 6-B, the driver 62 is positioned at a substantially perpendicular angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the lifter shaft 79.

[0149] 6-C, which shows a perspective view of FIG. 6-A, with the driver projection 66 fully engaged with the single lifter pin 134. Note that the majority of the lifter pins 72 are retracted apart from the single lifter pin 134 that holds the driver 62 protruding from the lifter base 74 (i.e., protruding beyond the first plate / guide 71).

[0150] 7A, lifter S / A 70 is shown in a front view holding driver 62 in a driving position. In this state, solenoid 75 is not activated, and the majority of lifter pins 72 are retracted inside lifter base 74. However, a single lifter pin 134 holds driver 62 during the initial rotation of the lifter. The mechanical load from driver projection 66 of driver 62 to the single lifter pin 134 holding driver 62 is sufficient to overcome the spring bias of forward spring 174 of the single lifter pin that would otherwise retract the single lifter pin. Note that the other lifter pins are pushed back to their retracted positions by their forward springs.

[0151] Referring now to Figure 7-B, a left side view of Figure 7-A is shown. Figures 7-A through 7-C show the lifter S / A 70 already partially rotated, with the driver lug 66 about to "drop" to perform the driving stroke and allow the forward spring 174 to retract the single lifter pin 134 into the lifter base 74. As seen in Figure 6-A, the typical ready position is when the single lifter pin 134 holds a larger portion of the single driver lug 66.

[0152] Referring now to Figure 7-C, a perspective view of Figure 7-A is shown. The single lifter pin 134 again holds the single driver lug 66, thereby holding the driver 62 in the ready position. Note how the single driver lug 66 contacts the single lifter pin 134. Also, note that as seen in this perspective view, all five of the other lifter pins are fully retracted.

[0153] 8-A, lifter S / A 70 is shown in a front view at the beginning of the drive stroke. When the drive stroke begins, lifter S / A 70 has rotated just enough to rotate the single lifter pin 134 past driver lug 66. The forward spring 174 is then able to decompress, urging the single pin back into lifter base 74 and into the other lifter pins 72. Driver 62 is now "free" to begin the drive stroke.

[0154] Referring now to FIG. 8-B, a left side view of FIG. 8-A is shown.

[0155] 8-C, a perspective view of FIG. 8-A is shown, with all of the lifter pins 72 retracted.

[0156] 9-A, lifter S / A 70 is shown in a front view at the end of the driving stroke. Solenoid 75 is not activated and lifter pin 72 is retracted inside lifter base 74. Note that driver 62 is parked in the unaligned position in this view.

[0157] Referring now to Figure 9-B, a left side view of Figure 9-A is shown. At the end of the driving stroke, the driver projections 66 are mostly past the lifter S / A 70. In other words, the driver 62 is in its "down" (driven) position. Figures 9-A through 9-C do not show an initial jam condition, as none of the driver projections 66 will interfere with any of the lifter pins 72, allowing the lifter pins to extend for the lifting stroke.

[0158] 9-C, a perspective view of FIG. 9-A is shown illustrating the lifter S / A 70 immediately after the driver 62 has completed its driving stroke and before the lifter pins 72 are about to be extended.

[0159] Referring now to Figure 10-A, lifter S / A 70 is shown in front view. Figures 10-A through 10-C show a jammed condition at the beginning of the lifting stroke. Solenoid 75 is activated and the majority of lifter pins 72 protrude from the top of lifter base 74 (i.e., through first plate / guide 71). The jammed condition (or interference) is indicated by reference numeral 136, where one of the lifter pins (136) is only partially extended and blocked by the driver lug interference.

[0160] Referring now to FIG. 10-B, a left side view of FIG. 10-A is shown.

[0161] 10-C, which shows a perspective view of FIG. 10-A. The majority of the lifter pins 72 are shown extended from the lifter end plate (or "guide") 71. However, due to interference, one lifter pin 136 is blocked and cannot fully extend, remaining mostly inside the lifter base 74. The particular (blocked) lifter pin 136 compresses its respective rear spring 176, while the fully extended (protruding) lifter pins only slightly compress both their front spring 174 and their rear spring 176 (i.e., their lifter pin springs are in their neutral state). To clear the jam, the lifter S / A 70 simply needs to continue rotating until the interfered lifter pin 136 slides past the interference. The situation shown in Figure 10-C illustrates the operating condition of this lifter, in which all of the lifter pins 72 are attempting to move to their extended positions but are unable to do so due to a situation in which at least one of the lifter pins is blocked by mechanical interference. However, in a properly operating tool, in all cases, at least the majority of the lifter pins will protrude during the early stages of the lifting stroke, as seen in Figure 10-C. In this illustration, only a single lifter pin 136, which is "blocked," is not extended, which can occur early in the lifting stroke.

[0162] 11-A, the lifter S / A 70 is shown in a front view as the lifting stroke continues, clearing the jammed condition shown in FIGS. 10-A through 10-C. The solenoid 75 is activated, causing the lifter pins 72 to protrude and extend from the lifter base 74 through the first cover / guide 71. As discussed above, to clear the previous jammed condition shown in FIGS. 10-A through 10-C, the lifter S / A 70 continues to rotate until the lifter pins 136 slide past the interfering driver lugs 66. A non-interfering position is shown at 138, where the lifter pins 138 "grab" the respective driver lugs 66 to lift the driver 62 back to the ready position. Note that additional lifter pins 72 grab additional respective driver lugs 66 as the lifter S / A 70 continues to lift the driver 62 toward the ready position.

[0163] Referring now to FIG. 11-B, a left side view of FIG. 11-A is shown.

[0164] 11-C, a perspective view of FIG. 11-A is shown. In this view, the jam condition shown in FIGS. 10-A through 10-C has been resolved with the lifter pins 138 not interfering. In this view, all of the lifter pins 72 are fully extended and can engage the driver lugs 66. It will be appreciated that the spacing between the lifter pins 72 matches the spacing between the driver lugs 66 so that as the lifter S / A 70 rotates, each lifter pin 72 "captures" the next driver lug 66.

[0165] Referring now to FIG. 12, a front view of the lifter S / A 70 is shown. A plurality of lifter pins 72, including an extended lifter pin 134, are visible. A flat area 158 on the lifter shaft 79 is visible, as is a snap ring 156. As will be described below with reference to FIG. 13, the lifter S / A 70 is shown in the ready position with the lifter pins 134 extended and holding the driver 62. The flat area 158 is used to mechanically transmit rotational motion of the lifter shaft to the first cover (or "guide") 71 (see FIG. 1). It will be understood that, in the general case, the lifter shaft should be in mechanical communication with at least one of the first cover / guide 71 and the second holder / cover ("pusher") 76 to impart rotational motion to the lifter subassembly 70 as needed.

[0166] Referring now to FIG. 13, a cutaway view of lifter S / A 70 of FIG. 12 is shown taken along line 13-13. In FIG. 13, a single lifter pin 134 extends from lifter base 74 (through first cover / guide 71). Solenoid 75 and plunger 167 are deactivated, and shuttle return spring 154 is decompressed. The remaining lifter pins 72 are retracted within lifter base 74. The single lifter pin 134 has its front spring 174 compressed and its rear spring 176 decompressed. This is due to the force exerted by "holding" a single driver tooth 66 (as shown in FIGS. 6-A-6-C and 7-A-7-C).

[0167] 14, a front view of lifter S / A 70 is shown. As will be explained below in conjunction with FIG. 15, lifter S / A 70 is shown in a driven position in which driver 62 is misaligned and lifter pin 136 is not extended due to interference from driver protrusion 66.

[0168] Referring now to FIG. 15, a cutaway view of lifter S / A 70 of FIG. 14 is shown taken along line 15-15. In FIG. 15, a single lifter pin 136 is blocked by interference from a driver lug (as shown in FIGS. 10-A through 10-C). Solenoid 75 and plunger 167 are activated. Plunger 167 is pushing lifter cover plate ("pusher") 76 "leftward" (in this view), causing lifter pin 72 to protrude from the lifter base. However, due to interference, the single lifter pin 136 is still blocked. The blocked lifter pin 136 has its front spring 174 decompressed and its rear spring 176 compressed. (Note that without interference from a misaligned driver, rear spring 176 would push lifter pin 136 to its extended position.)

[0169] 16, a front view of lifter S / A 70 is shown. As will be described below with reference to FIG. 17, lifter S / A 70 is shown in a "release" position in which lifter S / A 70 has rotated so that the "next" lifter pin 138 will capture the misaligned driver lug 66 and begin the lifting stroke.

[0170] Referring now to FIG. 17, a cutaway view of lifter S / A 70 of FIG. 16 is shown taken along line 17-17. In FIG. 17, all of the lifter pins 72 are extended and ready for a lifting stroke (as shown in FIGS. 11-A through 11-C). Solenoid 75 and plunger 167 are activated. The plunger is pushing shuttle subassembly / holder 150 "leftward" (in this view), causing the lifter pins 72 to protrude from the lifter base. In FIG. 17, all of the front and rear springs 174 and 176 of the lifter pins 72 are only slightly compressed (i.e., in their neutral state). As mentioned above, FIG. 17 shows the "released" state of the lifter pins 72. Also, note that if the driver 62 is not misaligned, this is what all of the lifter pins 72 would look like at the start of a "normal" lifting stroke.

[0171] 18, there is shown a front view of lifter S / A 70. As will be explained below with reference to FIG. 19, lifter S / A 70 is shown in the driving stroke with all of the lifter pins 72 retracted.

[0172] Referring now to FIG. 19, there is shown a cutaway view of the lifter S / A 70 of FIG. 18 taken along line 19-19. In FIG. 19, the lifter pins 72 are retracted (as shown in FIGS. 8A-B and 9A-C). The solenoid 75 and plunger 167 are not activated, and the shuttle return spring 154 is pushing the shuttle S / A ("holder") 150 to the right (in this view). All of the lifter pin forward springs 174 and rearward springs 176 are again in their neutral positions. This is what the lifter pins 72 look like during the driving stroke.

[0173] 41, a cutaway view of the lifter S / A 70 in the extended position is shown, including the solenoid 75, lifter pin 72, front spring 174, and rear spring. 176 are not shown for clarity. In the extended position, plunger 167 (shown as reference numbers 166, 168 in several views, including FIG. 41) contacts lifter base 74 at flange 192. Shuttle base ("holder") 152 is being pushed to the left (in this view) by the plunger, and shuttle return spring 154 is compressed.

[0174] 42, a cutaway view of lifter S / A 70 is shown in the retracted position. The solenoid 75, lifter pin 72, forward spring 174, and rearward spring 176 are not shown for clarity. In this state, the solenoid is actuated, the plunger is retracted, and the lifter's second cover ("pusher") 76 is not in contact with flange 192. The shuttle base / holder 152 is pushed to the right (in this view) by the shuttle return spring 154.

[0175] It will be appreciated that any type of linear actuator can be used in place of the solenoid 75. For example, a linear motor can be used in place of the solenoid to form such a linear actuator. Furthermore, such a linear actuator can be constructed using a rotary motor along with a mechanism for converting rotary motion into linear motion.

[0176] Second embodiment

[0177] Referring now to FIG. 20 , a first alternative embodiment lifter subassembly (“S / A”) for a fastener driving tool is generally designated by reference numeral 270, and the lifter S / A is a rotary-linear lifter. A lifter shaft 279 and a power transmission subassembly (not shown) rotate the lifter S / A 270. A lifter base 274 (sometimes referred to herein as a “first cover,” “first holder,” or simply a “guide”) is attached to the lifter shaft 279 and covers a lifter pin subassembly (“S / A”) 384 (see FIG. 24 ) (sometimes referred to herein as a “lifter extension S / A”). The lifter first cover / guide 274 is proximal to the second end of the lifter shaft 279. The lifter first cover / guide 274 has a plurality of through holes 339 proximal to the periphery of the lifter base and a central opening 390 (see FIG. 23 ) for the lifter shaft 279. In this view, lifter S / A 270 is shown closest to driver (or "driver blade") 262 (not shown in this view). Solenoid 275 is also attached to lifter shaft 279 distally from driver 262. Driver 262 has a plurality of protrusions or teeth 266 (not shown in this view). It will be understood that the lifter of FIG. 20 is designed to operate as part of a fastener-driving tool, and the lifter is part of a machine sometimes referred to herein as a "fastener-driving machine."

[0178] The solenoid 275 is used to actuate a plurality of lifter pins or extensions 272 during the return stroke of the driver 262. FIG. 21 shows the lifter pins 272 in a "retracted" state. The retracted state is typically used for the driving stroke of the tool. In the retracted state, the face of the lifter pins 272 is nominally flush with the face of the first cover / guide 274. FIG. 22 shows the lifter pins 272 in an "extended" state. In the extended state, the lifter pins 272 extend beyond a plurality of through-holes 339. The extended state is typically used for the return stroke. In FIG. 21, the solenoid 275 is not activated and the solenoid plunger portion 366 is not extended.

[0179] Referring now to FIG. 22, the lifter S / A 270 is shown in its extended state. In FIG. 22, the solenoid 275 is activated, causing the lifter pins 272 to protrude from the lifter first cover ("guide") 274. In this extended state, the lifter pins 272 can interfere with the driver lugs 266 (not shown in this view). During the return stroke (or lifting stroke), the lifter S / A 270 rotates radially with the lifter shaft 279. This action rotates the lifter pins 272, allowing each lifter pin to "grab and lift" an individual driver lug or tooth 266 (not shown in this view). If desired, the lifter S / A 270 can rotate more than one full revolution to fully lift the driver 262 back to the "ready position," where the tool is ready to drive another fastener into a workpiece. The lower solenoid plunger portion 366 is pushed "upward" (to the left in this view) by the solenoid 275, thereby pushing the lifter pin 272 into a protruding or extended position from the lifter first cover ("guide") 274.

[0180] 23, lifter S / A 270 is shown in an exploded view. A snap ring 271 secures lifter first cover / guide 274 to lifter shaft 279. Lifter pin S / A 384 is shown including multiple lifter pins 272. Each lifter pin 272 includes a lifter pin housing (or "holder") 352, and each lifter pin can independently slide in and partially out of the lifter pin housing / holder 352. Each lifter pin housing / holder 352 includes an external lifter spring 374. A shuttle return spring 354 (or "return spring") is mounted on the lifter shaft 279.

[0181] Lifter shaft 279 has a flat portion 358, a keyway 273, first and second ends, and a longitudinal axis 385 extending between the first and second ends. A key 335 is mounted in keyway 273. A shuttle 276 (sometimes referred to herein as a "second cover" or "second holder") is mounted to upper solenoid plunger portion 368 and holds a portion of a plurality of lifter pin housings ("holders") 352 in place. Shuttle 276 is proximal to solenoid 275. Shuttle 276 has a central opening 392 and a plurality of through holes 360 proximal to the shuttle's periphery, and lifter pin housings / holders 352 are secured within the through holes. A snap ring 277 secures shuttle 276 to upper plunger portion 368. Lifter first cover / guide 274 and shuttle 276 act as a "guide" and "holder," respectively, for lifter pins 272. Through-holes 360 are sometimes referred to herein as "openings," and in this illustrated embodiment, these openings 360 are arranged in a circular pattern as seen in an end or front view, such as FIG. 25-A, where the openings 360 are in the same location as the lifter pins 272.

[0182] The lower solenoid plunger portion 366 and the upper solenoid plunger portion 368 comprise a "two-piece plunger" in this illustrated embodiment. The lower plunger portion 366 and the upper plunger portion 368 are preferably constructed from a magnetically susceptible material (e.g., steel, etc.). The lower plunger portion 366 has a central opening 394 with a seating notch or slot 337 over the key 335, and when fully assembled, the lifter S / A 270 rotates with the lifter shaft 279. (Note: The solenoid 275 does not spin.)

[0183] The upper solenoid plunger portion 368 has a plurality of grooves 369 that are spaced apart and aligned in a direction parallel to the lifter shaft 279. The grooves 369 provide clearance for a set of springs 374 and spring bases 377. The solenoid 275 has a central opening 396 that accommodates the two-piece plungers 366, 368 and the lifter shaft 279, the solenoid 275 being proximal to a first end of the lifter shaft 279. It will be understood that the so-called two-piece plungers 366, 368 can be made of a unitary construction and therefore may be referred to herein by a single reference numeral 367.

[0184] 24, one of the lifter pins S / A 384 is shown in an exploded view. The lifter pin housing / holder 352 is preferably a hollow cylinder with a flange 382 at one (proximal) end and a number of small through-holes 373 at the distal end. The through-holes 373 are on opposite sides of the lifter pin housing / holder 352. The lifter pin (or extension) 272 is a cylinder with a flange 380 at one end and a shallow opening 386 proximal to the flange 380. The lifter pin 272 is essentially a solid cylinder except for this opening 386 at one end.

[0185] As mentioned above, there are six lifter pin housings / holders 352, each serving as a "holder" for one lifter pin 272. In the illustrated embodiment, the "holders" 352 have larger openings 353 that slidably accommodate the lifter pins 272. In other words, the lifter pins 272 can be linearly displaced while being "held" by the holder openings 353.

[0186] Spring base 377 has a plurality of through holes 363. Cap 375 has a plurality of through holes 365 and spring post 383. To assemble one lifter pin S / A 384, cap 375 is installed inside spring base 377, internal lifter spring 376 is installed over post 383, lifter pin 272 sits on top of post 383 and internal lifter spring 376, and lifter pin housing / holder 352 covers lifter pin 272. Dowel or spring pin 371 passes through openings 363, 365, and 373, thereby securing lifter pin S / A 384 together.

[0187] When the first alternative embodiment lifter S / A 270 is assembled, the spring base 377 passes through the upper plunger portion 368, and the pin housing flange 382 rests proximal to the shuttle 276. The first alternative embodiment lifter S / A 270 is designed so that all of the individual lifter pins 272 exhibit individual movement in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the lifter shaft 279. The use of external springs 374 and internal springs 376 allows each lifter pin 272 to extend and retract individually as well as together as a group. During the driving stroke, the solenoid 275 is not activated, which means the plunger 367 is not activated (see FIG. 21 ). Because the plunger 367 is not actuated, the shuttle return spring 354 is pushing the shuttle 276 distally from the lifter first cover / guide 274, the shuttle 276 is not compressing the external spring 374, and therefore the lifter pins 272 are retracted and their faces are nominally flush with the faces of the lifter first cover ("guide") 274. In other words, the lifter pins 272 do not interfere with the driver 262 and driver lug 266 during the driving stroke.

[0188] However, during the lifting stroke (or return stroke), solenoid 275 is activated, forcing plunger 367 "up," thereby compressing shuttle return spring 354 and forcing shuttle 276 toward lifter first cover / guide 274. This action causes spring base 377 to slide "up" along groove 369, pushing cap 375 compresses internal spring 376 against lifter pin 272. This typically causes lifter pin 272 to extend from lifter pin housing / holder 352. In this action, spring base 377 acts as a "pusher."

[0189] During a typical return stroke, the protruding lifter pins 272 rotate with the lifter S / A 270, "grabbing" the individual driver teeth 266 and quickly pushing the driver 262 to the ready position. However, in some cases, an interference condition (e.g., jamming) can occur in which the driver teeth 266 can interfere with the lifter pins 272. A typical jamming condition is one in which the fastener is misaligned or improperly driven into the workpiece. Another typical interference condition can occur after the driving stroke, in which one or more of the driver teeth 266 simply covers one or more of the lifter pins 272 due to driver misalignment, such as can occur when the tool's piston stop is sufficiently worn. Either of these above interference conditions is sometimes referred to as "driver misalignment."

[0190] In a jammed condition, for example, the individual movement exhibited by each lifter pin 272 helps to alleviate the condition. In a typical jammed condition, one or more driver teeth 266 may remain covering or partially covering one or more lifter pins 272. Individual lifter pins 272 not covered by a driver protrusion 266 typically protrude from the lifter's first cover ("guide") 274, as described above. Individual lifter pins 272 that are covered or partially covered by a driver protrusion 266 are retained within the lifter pin housing / holder 352. A particular driver protrusion 266 covering a particular lifter pin 272 then compresses the internal spring 376 of that individual lifter pin 272.

[0191] When lifter S / A 270 begins to rotate for its lifting stroke, any covered, or "blocked," lifter pins 272 are unable to engage with driver lugs 266. In other words, such blocked lifter pins are unable to perform their typical function of lifting one of the driver lugs, but instead slide along the back surface of driver 262 as lifter S / A begins its lifting stroke. However, once lifter S / A 270 has rotated sufficiently, the blocked lifter pins 272 can extend and join the formation of the other extended lifter pins, thus assisting the lifting stroke.

[0192] Internal spring 376 This movement of the lifter pins retracting and extending by the lifter S / A 270 is parallel to the longitudinal axis 385, rather than radially of the lifter S / A 270. Figures 25 through 30 illustrate some of the conditions described above, and therefore show how the lifter pins exhibit independent movement along the longitudinal axis 385.

[0193] Referring now to Figure 25-A, lifter S / A 270 is shown in a front view. Figures 25-A through 25-C show an interference condition at the beginning of the lifting stroke. Solenoid 275 is activated, causing the majority of lifter pins 272 to protrude from lifter first cover (or "guide") 274. The interference condition, where driver projection interference is blocking one of the lifter pins (336), is indicated by reference numeral 336.

[0194] 25-B, which shows a left side view of FIG. 25-A. As can be seen in FIGS. 25-A and 25-B, the driver 262 is again positioned at a substantially perpendicular angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the lifter shaft 279.

[0195] Referring now to FIG. 25-C, a perspective view of FIG. 25-A is shown. The majority of the lifter pins 272 are shown extending from the lifter's first cover (or "guide") 274. However, due to interference, one lifter pin 336 remains mostly inside the lifter's first cover (or "guide") 274 in a blocked position. The blocked lifter pin 336 compresses its respective internal spring 376, while the protruding lifter pin decompresses the internal spring. To clear the interference condition, the lifter S / A 270 simply needs to continue rotating until the interfered (i.e., blocked) lifter pin 336 slides past the interference.

[0196] Referring now to FIG. 26-A, the lifter S / A 270 is shown in front view as the lifting stroke continues, clearing the interference condition shown in FIGS. 25-A through 25-C. The solenoid 275 is actuated, causing the lifter pins 272 to protrude and extend from the lifter's first cover ("guide") 274. As discussed above, to clear the previous jam condition shown in FIGS. 25-A through 25-C, the lifter S / A 270 continues to rotate until the lifter pins 336 slide past the interfering driver lugs 266. At 338, a non-interfering position is shown in which the lifter pins 338 "capture" the respective driver lugs 266 to lift the driver 262 back to the ready position. Note that as the lifter S / A 270 continues to lift the driver 262 toward the ready position, additional lifter pins 272 capture further respective driver lugs 266.

[0197] Referring now to Figure 26-B, a left side view of Figure 26-A is shown.

[0198] Referring now to FIG. 26-C, a perspective view of FIG. 26-A is shown. In this view, the interference condition shown in FIGS. 25-A through 25-C has been resolved with the non-interfering lifter pins 338. In this view, all of the lifter pins 272 are fully extended and can engage with the driver protrusions 266. It will be appreciated that the spacing between the lifter pins 272 matches the spacing between the driver protrusions 266 so that as the lifter S / A 70 rotates, each lifter pin 272 "captures" the next driver protrusion 266.

[0199] 27-A, lifter S / A 270 is shown in a front view showing the ready position. Solenoid 275 is not activated and lifter pins 272 are retracted within lifter pin housing / holder 352, except for single lifter pin 334, which holds driver 262. As will be described below, single lifter pin 334 is extended by a force exerted on it by driver projection 266 that overcomes the spring bias of external lifter spring 374.

[0200] Referring now to Figure 27-B, a left side view of Figure 27-A is shown, illustrating the ready position before the lifter S / A 270 begins to rotate for the drive stroke (see Figures 28-A through 28-C for the pre-ready position for the drive stroke).

[0201] 27-C, which shows a perspective view of FIG. 27-A. Driver projection 266 is fully engaged with single lifter pin 334. Note that the majority of lifter pins 272 are retracted except for the single lifter pin 334, which protrudes from lifter first cover (or "guide") 274, which holds driver 262.

[0202] 28-A, lifter S / A 270 is shown in a front view holding driver 262 during rotational movement to effect a driving stroke. In this state, solenoid 275 is not activated and the majority of lifter pins 272 are retracted inside lifter pin housing / holder 352. However, a single lifter pin 334 holds driver 262. The driver lug 266 of driver 262 is not engaged by the single lifter pin 334. 334 The mechanical load on the single lifter pin 374 is great enough to overcome the spring bias of the single lifter pin's external spring 374, which would otherwise retract this single lifter pin. Note that the other lifter pins are being pushed back to their retracted positions by their external springs.

[0203] Referring now to Figure 28-B, a left side view of Figure 28-A is shown. Figures 28-A through 28-C show the lifter S / A 270 already partially rotated and the driver lug 266 is about to "drop" to perform the driving stroke, allowing the external spring 374 to retract the single lifter pin 334 into the lifter pin housing / holder 352. As mentioned above, the typical ready position is when the single lifter pin 334 holds a larger portion of the single driver lug 266 (see Figure 27-A).

[0204] Referring now to Figure 28-C, a perspective view of Figure 28-A is shown. The single lifter pin 334 again holds the single driver lug 266, thereby holding the driver 262 in the ready position. Note how the single driver lug 266 contacts the single lifter pin 334. Also, note that as seen in this perspective view, all five other lifter pins are fully retracted.

[0205] 29-A, lifter S / A 270 is shown in a front view at the start of the drive stroke. When the drive stroke begins, lifter S / A 270 has rotated just enough to rotate the single lifter pin 334 past driver lug 266. External spring 374 is then able to decompress, urging that single pin back into lifter pin housing / holder 352, along with the other lifter pins 272. Driver 262 is now "free" to begin the drive stroke.

[0206] Referring now to Figure 29-B, a left side view of Figure 29-A is shown.

[0207] Referring now to Figure 29-C, there is shown a perspective view of Figure 29-A. As can be seen in this perspective view, all of the lifter pins 272 have been retracted.

[0208] 30-A, lifter S / A 270 is shown in a front view at the end of the driving stroke. Solenoid 275 is not activated and lifter pins 272 are retracted inside lifter pin housing / holder 352. Note that in this view, driver 262 is parked in the unaligned position.

[0209] Referring now to Figure 30-B, a left side view of Figure 30-A is shown. At the end of the driving stroke, the driver projections 266 are mostly past the lifter S / A 270. In other words, the driver 262 is in its "down" (driven) position. Figures 30-A through 30-C do not show the initial interference condition, since none of the driver projections 266 would interfere with any of the lifter pins 272 to allow the lifter pins to extend for the lifting stroke.

[0210] 30-C, a perspective view of FIG. 30-A is shown illustrating the lifter S / A 270 immediately after the driver 262 has completed its driving stroke and before the lifter pins 272 are about to be extended.

[0211] 31-A, a right side view of a single lifter pin S / A 384 is shown in a retracted position. The lifter pin 272 is mostly inside the lifter pin housing ("holder") 352, with the internal spring 376 compressed.

[0212] Referring now to FIG. 31-B, there is shown a top view of the single lifter pin S / A 384 of FIG. 31-A.

[0213] Referring now to FIG. 31-C, a single lifter pin S / A 384 is shown in a cutaway view taken along line 31-31 of FIG. 31-B. The lifter pin 272 is in the retracted position and the internal spring 376 is compressed. The lifter pin housing / holder 352 has an internal stop 381 against which the flange 380 abuts when the lifter pin 272 is in the extended position. A post 383 and compressed internal spring 376 fit inside an opening 386 in the lifter pin 272. A dowel or spring pin 371 secures the lifter pin housing / holder 352, cap 375, and spring base / pusher 377 together.

[0214] Referring now to FIG. 32-A, a right side view of a single lifter pin S / A 384 is shown in the extended position.

[0215] Referring now to FIG. 32-B, there is shown a top view of the single lifter pin S / A 384 of FIG. 32-A.

[0216] Referring now to FIG. 32-C, a single lifter pin S / A 384 is shown in a cutaway view taken along line 32-32 of FIG. 32-B. In the extended position, the lifter pin 272 extends from the lifter pin housing / holder 352 a sufficient distance to "catch" the driver lug 266 during the lifting stroke. The internal spring 376 is decompressed, and the flange 380 presses against the internal stop 381. The opening 386 only has the portion of the internal spring 376 decompressed inside, and does not have the post 383.

[0217] Referring now to FIG. 33, a cutaway view of lifter S / A 270 is shown. In FIG. 33, a single lifter pin 336 is blocked due to driver projection interference (as shown in FIGS. 25-A through 25-C). Solenoid 275 and plunger 367 are actuated. Plunger 367 is pushing shuttle 276 "leftward" (in this view) proximal to lifter first cover / guide 274, pushing lifter pin 272 to protrude from the lifter base. However, due to interference, the single lifter pin 336 is still blocked. Because flange 382 of lifter pin housing / holder 352 is in contact with seat 378 (see FIGS. 38 through 40) of shuttle 276, the blocked lifter pin 336 has its internal spring 376 compressed and its external spring 374 decompressed. (Note that an internal spring 376 urges the lifter pin 336 to its extended position when not interfering with a misaligned driver.)

[0218] Referring now to FIG. 34, a cutaway view of lifter S / A 270 is shown. In FIG. 34, all of the lifter pins 272 are extended and ready for a lifting stroke (as shown in FIGS. 26-A through 26-C). Solenoid 275 and plunger 367 are activated. Plunger 367 is pushing shuttle 276 "leftward" (in this view) proximal to lifter first cover (or "guide") 274, causing lifter pins 272 to protrude from the lifter first cover. In FIG. 34, all of the internal springs 376 and external springs 374 of lifter pins 272 are decompressed. FIG. 17 shows the "released" state of lifter pins 272. Also, note that if driver 262 is not misaligned, this would be what all of the lifter pins 272 would look like at the start of a "normal" lifting stroke (see FIGS. 26-A through 26-C).

[0219] Referring now to FIG. 35, a cutaway view of lifter S / A 270 is shown. In FIG. 35, a single lifter pin 334 extends from lifter first cover (or "guide") 274. Solenoid 275 and plunger 367 are deactivated, and shuttle return spring 354 has moved shuttle 276 to a distal position from lifter first cover / guide 274. The remaining lifter pins 272 are retracted within lifter pin housing / holder 352. The single lifter pin 334 has its internal spring 376 decompressed and its external spring 374 compressed due to the force exerted by "holding" a single driver lug 266 (as shown in FIGS. 27-A through 27-C and 28-A through 28-C).

[0220] Referring now to FIG. 36, a cutaway view of lifter S / A 270 is shown. In FIG. 36, the lifter pin 272 is retracted (as shown in FIGS. 29-A through 29-C and 30-A through 30-C). The solenoid 275 and plunger 367 are not activated, and the shuttle return spring 354 causes the plunger to return to its retracted position. The shuttle 276 is distal from the lifter's first cover / guide 274. All internal and external springs 376 and 374 of the lifter pin 272 are decompressed. This is what the lifter pin 272 looks like during the driving stroke.

[0221] Referring now to FIG. 37-A, a right-side cutaway view of lifter S / A 270 is shown without the lifter pin subassembly. In FIG. 37-A, lifter S / A 270 is in the retracted position. Solenoid 275 and plunger 367 are not activated. Shuttle return spring 354 is decompressed, and shuttle 276 is distal from lifter first cover / guide 274.

[0222] Referring now to FIG. 37-B, a right cutaway view of lifter S / A 270 is shown without lifter pin S / A 384. In FIG. 37-B, lifter S / A 270 is in the extended position. Solenoid 275 and plunger 367 are activated. Shuttle return spring 354 is compressed, and shuttle 276 is proximal to lifter first cover / guide 274.

[0223] 38, the snap ring 277, shuttle 276, and plunger 367 are shown in an exploded view. The plunger 367 can be made from a single piece of material and has multiple grooves 369 that pass through multiple lifter pin housings / holders 352 (not shown in this view). The plunger 367 is a hollow cylinder with an opening 394 that fits over the lifter shaft 279 (not shown in this view). The "left" ends (in this view) of the plungers 366, 368 have multiple alternating protrusions 391 and recesses 393 that essentially function as splines.

[0224] The shuttle 276 has a plurality of through holes 360 into which a plurality of lifter pin housing / holders 352 (not shown in this view) rest, and the shuttle has a central through hole 392 that fits over the plungers 366, 368. Seats 378 proximal to the through holes 360 contact the lifter pin housing / holders 352 when fully assembled together. The inner periphery of the central hole 392 has a plurality of alternating recesses 397 and protrusions 395 that essentially function as splines.

[0225] Shuttle 276 is mounted onto the "left" end (in this view) of plunger 367 such that shuttle portions 397 are mounted to plunger portions 391 and shuttle portions 395 are mounted to plunger portions 393. This mounting "arrangement" allows plunger 367 and shuttle 276 to rotate together when lifter shaft 279 is rotated. As mentioned above, plunger 367 is keyed to key 335 on lifter shaft 279, allowing the plunger to rotate with the lifter shaft. Snap ring 277 secures shuttle 276 to plunger 367.

[0226] Referring now to FIG. 39, the area of ​​FIG. 39 39 provides a close-up view of one of the plurality of seats 378. As will be described below, each lifter pin housing / holder 352 contacts a respective one of the plurality of seats 378 when the lifter S / A 270 is assembled together.

[0227] 40, a single lifter housing S / A 384 is shown in an exploded view. Shuttle 276 is also shown to show how lifter housing S / A 384 seats on the shuttle. A single lifter housing / holder 352 is pressed into through-hole 360 ​​until pin housing flange 382 contacts seat 378. Next, a single lifter pin 272 is pressed into lifter housing / holder 352, and then an internal lifter spring 376 and cap 375 are pressed onto lifter pin 272. Finally, an external lifter spring 374 is pressed onto the outside of lifter pin 272, and a spring base / pusher 377 is pressed onto the cap. A dowel or spring pin 371 is used to secure spring base / pusher 377, cap 375, and lifter housing / holder 352 together.

[0228] During operation, the pin housing flange 382 and seat 378 are most often in contact with one another. However, for every individual driving event, this varies as follows: The rotation of the lifter S / A 270 is stopped with the driver 262 in a selected "ready" position (see FIGS. 27-A, 27-B, and 27-C). This is the position where the solenoid 275 is deactivated and the lifter pins 272 are pulled back to their retracted positions, nominally flush with the face of the lifter guide 274, except for the lifter pins 334, which are prevented from axial movement by the side load force of the driver lugs 266 on the lifter pins 334.

[0229] Shuttle 276 and plunger 366 , 368 have moved to their retracted state, and the lifter pins 334 are secured by the driver 262 (see FIGS. 27A-C), the associated pin housing / holder 352 is also secured by the driver, as the lifter pin flange 380 of the pin 334 (as seen in FIG. 24) contacts the internal flange 381 of the pin housing / holder 352 (see FIG. 32-C). (Note: collectively, in FIGS. 24 and 40, the lifter pins 334 are known as lifter pins 272.) Thus, the external spring 374 of the pin assembly 384 associated with the "held" lifter pin 334 compresses. This allows the pin housing flange 382 and shuttle seat 378 to separate until the driver 262 releases the lifter pin 334 in a typical driving event. The spring 374 of the "held" lifter pin 334 will then decompress, returning the entire pin S / A 384 of that lifter pin (#334) to the same state as the other pin subassembly (#384) in preparation for another return stroke.

[0230] As previously mentioned, it will be appreciated that any type of linear actuator can be used in place of the solenoid 275. For example (again), a linear motor can be used in place of the solenoid to form such a linear actuator, and further, such a linear actuator can be constructed using a rotary motor along with a mechanism for converting rotary motion into linear motion.

[0231] General case description

[0232] The lifter embodiments described herein share common elements, including the overall layout of the lifter pins and how they move to reduce the likelihood of jamming or damage to a misaligned driver at the end of the driving stroke. The lifter pins in the various embodiments described herein also share a common method for holding the driver in its "ready" position at the end of the lifting stroke.

[0233] For example, all of the lifter assembly embodiments described herein include a lifter shaft extending into a rotatable lifter subassembly that houses multiple lifter pins. A solenoid (or other type of linear actuator) is located near (proximal to) a first end of the lifter shaft, and this linear actuator / solenoid is actuated to initiate a lifting (or "return") stroke that moves the driver of the fastener-driving tool toward the ready position. However, before this can occur, the lifter must complete the driving stroke.

[0234] To move the driver toward the ready position, the lifter subassembly is rotated while the lifter pins are in the extended position, allowing the lifter pins to physically contact multiple protrusions (or "teeth") along the longitudinal edge of the driver. As the lifter subassembly rotates, the multiple lifter pins continue to contact one of the driver protrusions in turn until the driver is in its ready position, at which point the lifter subassembly stops rotating.

[0235] When the driver reaches the ready position and the lifter stops rotating, a single lifter pin contacts a single driver lug. Because all of the lifter pins in the illustrated embodiment are essentially the same size and shape, it makes no significant difference which exact lifter pin is in contact with that driver lug. On the other hand, the driver lug in contact with the lifter pin when in the ready position will always be the same driver lug, unless the product designer decides to create a tool capable of driving fasteners with different lengths of driving stroke. This possibility would be easily achieved in the illustrated embodiment by simply adding linear encoders or sensors at different positions along the driver path within the tool's guide body, which could send a signal to the lifter shaft motor to stop its rotation and shorten the lifting stroke. This is highly likely in these illustrated designs, because, again, it makes virtually no difference which exact lifter pin is in contact with the driver lug at the stop position corresponding to the ready position.

[0236] The lifter subassembly includes a rotatable structure that holds a plurality of lifter pins in a circular pattern, so that as the lifter structure rotates, the individual lifter pins move in a circular path that sequentially contacts the protrusions on the driver, thereby moving the driver "up," i.e., toward the ready position. In this description, the "up" direction refers not only to the driver path in the tool's guide body toward the ready position (not shown in these drawings), but also to the higher pressure position of a piston in mechanical communication with the driver (not shown in these drawings). It will be understood that the piston that pushes the driver "down" (i.e., toward the "driven" position where the fastener is driven into the workpiece) is propelled by pressurized gas. In this type of fastener-driving tool, there is a storage chamber of pressurized gas that is reused for multiple driving strokes, i.e., the pressurized gas is not released to the atmosphere after a driving stroke. This tool is described in detail in various patent documents listed below, which are incorporated by reference. Thus, the "up" direction is toward the higher pressure position of the piston, which is pushed against the enclosed pressurized gas as the piston-driver combination is raised toward the ready position.

[0237] The lifter's rotatable structure holds a plurality of lifter pins in an orientation substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the lifter shaft. Each of these lifter pins is biased in both directions, typically through the use of springs located at or near each end of the pin. However, it will be understood that in various embodiments disclosed herein, the exact structure of the lifter pins is more complex than simply placing a spring at each end of the lifter pin, and in fact, that is not the typical construction technique used in these embodiments. What is important is that the lifter pins have some type of biasing element that acts on both directions of travel of the lifter pin.

[0238] In the illustrated embodiment, the lifter pin retaining structure includes a first cover disposed proximal to the second end of the lifter shaft, the first cover having a first plurality of openings or through holes proximal to the outer periphery of the first cover, and note that the first cover has a generally circular outer shape (at its outer periphery). The first cover receives the lifter shaft such that, when the lifter shaft rotates, the entire rotatable structure of the lifter subassembly rotates, causing the driver to perform a lifting (or return) stroke.

[0239] In the illustrated embodiment, the lifter pin retaining structure also includes a second cover disposed proximal to the solenoid. This second cover has a second plurality of openings or through-holes proximal to the outer periphery of the second cover. Like the first cover, the second cover is generally circular in outline (at its periphery). Generally speaking, the first plurality of openings are collinear with the second plurality of openings to accommodate the lifter pins. Furthermore, generally, both the first plurality of openings and the second plurality of openings are arranged in a circular pattern to allow the lifter pins to "capture" the driver lugs at equally spaced distances between the driver lugs along the longitudinal edge of the driver.

[0240] The lifter pins are essentially held in their normal position between the first and second covers. Of course, other structural elements can be used to help hold the lifter pins in their normal position if desired by the tool's system designer. However, in all cases, the lifter pins are capable of longitudinal movement, as described above. The lifter pins are also capable of protruding through at least one of the two covers. That is, when the lifter pins are positioned in their "extended" position, they protrude from the first cover toward the movable driver. In this way, these extended lifter pins are in the correct position to physically engage the driver protrusions and cause a lifting stroke when desired by the tool's system controller.

[0241] In this general embodiment description, the lifter pins are "seated" in the second openings of the second cover (or holder), and the lifter pins can (when extended) protrude through the first openings of the first cover (or holder). In other words, the lifter pins may be able to extend through the second openings as through-holes if the system designer desires, but this is not required. Meanwhile, the lifter pins must be supported by some structure (e.g., a holder or cover) to remain in their overall "longitudinal motion" orientation, because a single lifter pin that remains extended in the lifter's ready position will experience a significant side load force due to the relatively high pressure exerted by the tool piston by the driver lug pressing against it, which force is transmitted to the driver.

[0242] As mentioned above, the solenoid is not activated to initiate the driving stroke. The solenoid contains a movable plunger that, when not activated, does not attempt to move the lifter pins to their extended position. Only when the lifter pins are retracted is there enough mechanical clearance to allow the driver to move quickly toward its driven position, and therefore out of the way to allow that type of driver movement. When everything is working properly, the driver moves very quickly through its entire travel, and therefore the solenoid needs to remain deactivated until it is time for the lift stroke.

[0243] Conversely, when a lifting stroke is desired, the solenoid is activated, causing the movable plunger to move to its activated state. A biasing force acting on each lifter pin then attempts to move the lifter pin to its extended position. However, if the driver is misaligned at the end of the driving stroke, one or more of the driver projections may be in a position that mechanically interferes with the extension of one or more of the lifter pins, preventing one or more of the lifter pins from extending. In the event of such interference, the affected lifter pin will not fully extend; instead, it will be blocked and only move slightly to a "blocked position," remaining largely within the lifter subassembly. These movements are possible through the use of appropriate biasing elements (e.g., springs) used with the lifter pins.

[0244] Note that the extended state of the lifter pins is their "active position." In other words, the solenoid is activated to achieve that state. Therefore, when a driving stroke is desired, the solenoid must be deactivated as described above. However, when the driver is positioned in its "ready" position, the mechanical load force between the lifter pins holding the "first" driver lug is very high and transmitted to the driver by the pressurized gas constantly pushing against the piston. The spring force of the lifter pins is intentionally selected so that this mechanical load force cannot be overcome, so that the mechanical load force exerted by the driver lug is quite sufficient to prevent the lifter pins from retracting the moment the solenoid is deactivated. Therefore, all lifter pins retract except for the single lifter pin holding that single lug of the driver.

[0245] This apparent dilemma regarding the affected lifter pin is resolved by rotating the lifter subassembly. As the affected lifter pin begins to move in a circular direction, it eventually loses contact with its "holding" lug on the driver, causing the driver to move rapidly toward the driven position in the drive stroke. This loss of physical contact is sometimes referred to as the driver "dropping." As soon as the lifter pin drops off the driver lug, it will be rapidly moved to its retracted position by the biasing force described above. This prevents the affected lifter pin from interfering with any of the other driver lugs as the drivers move through their drive stroke as the lifter subassembly continues to rotate.

[0246] Finally, once the driver-piston combination bottoms out at the end of its driving stroke, it will stop moving and then settle into a driven position, typically after a short period of bouncing after the piston hits the piston stop (not shown herein; see the patent documents listed below). The driver will either be properly aligned to be lifted by the rotating lifter pins when its movement stops, or it will be misaligned. Alternatively, if the driver ends its movement in a misaligned position, the first lifter pin that physically contacts one of the driver's prongs will not be able to extend and instead will slide against that driver prong without being able to lift the driver. However, the "next" lifter pin that comes along (through rotational movement of the lifter subassembly) will then be able to contact one of the driver prongs in the "correct" orientation and begin to lift the entire driver toward its ready position, thus completing the lifting stroke. Again, this is possible because a biasing element is used in conjunction with the lifter pins. Also, note that any one of the lifter pins can act in this manner, since the size and shape of the lifter pins are assumed to be essentially identical, with essentially identical biasing elements for each lifter pin. Also note that each lifter pin can exhibit independent movement in the lifter embodiments described herein.

[0247] Third embodiment

[0248] 43, a second alternative embodiment lifter subassembly (S / A), generally designated by reference numeral 600, is shown in an exploded view. A snap ring 602 secures a lifter base 604 (sometimes referred to herein as a "first cover," "first holder," or simply a "guide") to a lifter shaft 616. A shuttle subassembly (S / A) 610 is shown including a plurality of lifter pins (or "lifter extensions") 630. Each lifter pin 630 includes an individual lifter pin housing 636, and each lifter pin can independently slide in and partially out of its lifter pin housing 636. Each lifter pin housing 636 comprises a hollow cylinder with openings at both ends. A spring 606 (or "return spring") is mounted on the lifter shaft 616 proximal to the shuttle S / A 610.

[0249] Lifter shaft 616 has a flat portion 620, first and second ends, and a longitudinal axis 618 extending between the first and second ends. A movable shuttle 628 (sometimes referred to herein as a "second cover" or "second holder") is attached to movable plunger 612 at a "step" 638 (i.e., at step 638, the outer diameter of movable plunger 612 reduces to a slightly smaller outer diameter), and the plunger has a portion 640 with an outer diameter smaller than both the outer diameter of the entire plunger 612 and the outer diameter of step 638. This portion 640 has an outer diameter small enough to fit (without mechanical interference) into lifter pin housing 636, which is a cylinder with openings on both ends. Lifter pin housing 636 is located proximal to the outer periphery of shuttle / holder 628. Note that the "top" 641 of plunger 612 has a smaller outer diameter than portion 640, and this top 641 has a flat portion 635 that is positively aligned (e.g., "keyed") to a flat portion 634 of shuttle central opening 632. Return spring 606 holds shuttle S / A 610 in place at step 638.

[0250] It will be understood that movable shuttle 628 functions as a "holder" and / or "cover" for the lifter pins, with lifter pin housing 636 being part of the shuttle. However, the terms "second cover" or "second holder" also have the meaning of "shuttle" (i.e., "functions as a movable shuttle"), as this structure not only holds and covers lifter pins 630, but also "transports" those lifter pins when plunger 612 changes state, as explained below.

[0251] It will also be understood that the lifter pin housings 636 have the general shape of hollow cylinders, each having an outer cylinder "wall" that essentially functions as a cylinder "sleeve" for a lifter pin. However, while they represent the general shape of cylinders, rather than airtight cylinders with reciprocating pistons, their primary purpose is to provide a housing (or "cover") for "holding" the lifter pins 630 in their proper (rather than free) position. Furthermore, if desired, these lifter pin housings 636 can be molded as a unitary component of the shuttle / holder 628, as described below.

[0252] Plunger 612, having a flat portion 635, is also securely aligned with lifter shaft 616 and located in the central portion of solenoid 614. Plunger 612 preferably comprises a magnetically sensitive material (e.g., steel, etc.) and, when fully assembled, lifter S / A 600 rotates with lifter shaft 616. (Note: solenoid 614 does not spin because it is axially fixed to lifter shaft 616.) Solenoid 614 and plunger 612 together may be referred to herein as a "linear actuator."

[0253] It will be understood that the solenoid 614 in this embodiment includes an electrical winding that, when energized, generates a magnetic force on the plunger 612. This energized state is sometimes referred to herein as the "activated" state (or "on" state), and the de-energized state is sometimes referred to herein as the "de-activated" state (or "off" state). As explained below, the activated state is generally used to "lift" the driver toward its "ready" position, also referred to as the "lift stroke."

[0254] Lifter base / guide 604 has multiple openings 624 proximal to the periphery of the lifter base and a central opening 622 with flats 626 (at two locations). These flats 626 securely align with flats 620 on lifter shaft 616 (i.e., lifter base / guide 604 is axially secured to lifter shaft 616 relative to solenoid 614). After assembly, lifter pins 630 are secured within these openings 624 and seated within lifter pin housing 636. As mentioned above, shuttle 628 functions as a "holder" for lifter pin housing 636. In this illustrated embodiment, openings 624 and lifter pins 630 are arranged in a circular pattern as seen in an end or front view, such as FIG. 45A , with openings 624 in the same location as lifter pins 630 (and lifter pin housing 636) in that view.

[0255] 44A, a fully assembled second alternative embodiment lifter S / A 600 is shown. Lifter base ("guide") 604 has openings 624 (see FIG. 43) that seat over lifter pins 630 that seat in lifter pin housings 636, which in turn seat (or are molded into) shuttle / holder 628. Shuttle S / A 610 seats on plunger 612, and solenoid 614 is below (to the right in this view) the plunger. All of these components, except for solenoid 614, are securely aligned on lifter shaft 616.

[0256] It will be appreciated that shuttle / holder 628, also referred to herein as the "second cover," comprises a unitary structure, as shown in Figures 46 and 47A-47C. While this is not a requirement, this structure ("holder") 628 can be molded as a finished part and therefore does not need to be partially assembled with other internal components and then finally assembled. In other words, the lifter pins and lifter springs can all be assembled after this version of shuttle / holder 628 is manufactured as a unitary structure.

[0257] 44B, there is shown a cutaway view of the second alternative embodiment lifter S / A 600 taken along line 44B-44B of FIG. 44A. This view shows the lifter shaft 616, which passes through all of the components of the lifter S / A 600 and the solenoid 614. Note that the lifter base / guide 604 is distal from the solenoid 614, while the shuttle / holder 628 is (relatively) proximal to the solenoid.

[0258] 45A, the second alternative embodiment lifter S / A 600 is shown from below the solenoid 614. This view shows the shuttle S / A 610 as having a larger outer diameter than the solenoid 614.

[0259] 45B, there is shown a cutaway view of the second alternative embodiment lifter S / A 600 taken along line 45B-45B of FIG. 45A. This view shows some of the internal features of the lifter pin housing 636, which are further described below with reference to FIG.

[0260] 46, the shuttle S / A 610 is shown in an exploded view. Each individual lifter pin 630 has a small flange 648 on one end, including an upper lifter pin spring 644 that seats on each lifter pin, lower lifter spring pins 642 that each seat inside the lifter pin housing 636, and a housing cap 646 for each lifter pin that "closes" the base of the lifter pin housing. As can be seen better in FIG. 47B, the flange 648 separates each lifter pin spring "set."

[0261] As described above, lifter pin shuttle 628 functions as a "holder" for lifter pins 630. In the illustrated embodiment, "holder" 628 has six openings 629 that slidably hold six lifter pins 630. In other words, lifter pins 630 can be linearly displaced while being "held" by the openings 629 of the holder.

[0262] 47A, there is shown the flat portion 634 of the central opening 632. The lifter pins 630 are seated within their respective lifter pin housings 636. Under certain conditions, the lifter pin housings 636 function as "pusher" that cause the lifter pins to extend to perform a lifting action (or "lifting stroke").

[0263] Referring now to Figure 47B, there is shown a cutaway view of shuttle S / A 610 taken along line 47B-47B of Figure 47A. In this view, upper lifter pin spring 644 sits on the outside (around) lifter pin 630 and inside the cylinder wall of lifter pin housing 636. Inside another portion of lifter pin housing 636 is lower lifter spring 642, which is below (to the right of) lifter pin 630. Cap 646 secures lower lifter spring 642 inside lifter pin housing 636, and flange 648 separates both lifter springs.

[0264] Referring now to FIG. 47C, a cutaway view of the shuttle S / A 610 is shown along line 47C-47C of FIG. 47A. The second alternative lifter S / A 600 is designed so that all of the individual lifter pins 630 exhibit individual movement in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis 618 of the lifter shaft 616. The use of upper and lower springs 644, 642 allows each lifter pin 630 to extend and retract individually as well as together as a group. During the driving (or "driving") stroke, the solenoid 614 is not activated, which also means that the plunger 612 is not actuated at that time (see FIG. 49A, for example). Because plunger 612 is not actuated, return spring 606 is pushing shuttle ("holder") 628 to a position distal from lifter base / guide 604, and shuttle / holder 628 is not compressing lower spring 642; therefore, lifter pins 630 are retracted, and their faces are nominally flush with the faces of lifter base / guide 604. In other words, lifter pins 630 will not interfere with driver 650 and driver protrusions (or "teeth") 652 during the driving stroke (see, for example, FIG. 49).

[0265] However, during the lifting stroke (or "return stroke"), solenoid 614 is activated and pushes plunger 612 "up" (i.e., to the left in FIG. 51A), which slightly compresses return spring 606 and pushes shuttle / holder 628 toward lifter base / guide 604. The slight compression of lower spring 642 and upper spring 644 on flange 648 acts to move lifter pin 630 with shuttle / holder 628, typically causing lifter pin 630 to extend from lifter base ("guide") 604 (see FIGS. 51A, 51B).

[0266] During a typical return stroke, the protruding lifter pins 630 rotate with the lifter S / A 600, “grabbing” the individual driver teeth 652 and quickly pushing the driver 650 toward the ready position. However, in some cases, an interference condition (e.g., jamming) can occur in which the driver teeth 652 can interfere with the lifter pins 630 (see FIG. 50 ). A typical jamming condition is one in which the fastener is misaligned or improperly driven into the workpiece. Another typical interference condition can occur after the driving stroke, in which one or more of the driver teeth 652 simply covers one or more of the lifter pins 630 due to misalignment of the driver, such as can occur when the tool's piston stop is sufficiently worn. Either of these above interference conditions may also be referred to herein as “driver misalignment” or “misalignment” between the driver and the lifter.

[0267] In a jammed condition, for example, the individual movement exhibited by each lifter pin 630 helps to alleviate the condition. In a typical jammed condition, one or more driver teeth 652 may remain covering or partially covering one or more lifter pins 630. Any individual lifter pins 630 not covered by a driver protrusion 652 can typically protrude from the lifter base (“guide”) 604, as described above. However, any individual lifter pins 630 covered or partially covered by a driver protrusion 652 cannot extend and are therefore trapped within the lifter pin housing / pusher 636. A particular driver protrusion 652 covering a particular lifter pin 630 then compresses that pin's lower spring 642 (see FIG. 50B ).

[0268] When the lifter S / A 600 begins to rotate for its lifting stroke, any covered, or “blocked,” lifter pins 630 are unable to properly engage with the driver protrusions 652. In other words, such blocked lifter pins are unable to perform their typical function of lifting one of the driver protrusions, but instead will slide along the back surface of the driver 650 as the lifter S / A begins to rotate for its lifting stroke. However, once the lifter S / A 600 has rotated sufficiently, the blocked lifter pin 630 will “disengage” itself from contact with any of the driver protrusions 650 and will therefore extend, able to join the formation of the other extended lifter pins and thus assist in the lifting stroke following the rotation of the lifter S / A.

[0269] This retracting and extending movement of the lifter pins under the action of the lower springs 642 occurs parallel to the longitudinal axis 618, rather than radially of the lifter S / A 600. Figures 48 through 51 illustrate some of the conditions described above, and therefore show how the lifter pins exhibit independent movement along a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis 618.

[0270] 48, lifter S / A 600 is shown in a front view showing the ready position. Solenoid 614 is not activated, and lifter pins 630 are retracted within lifter pin housing 636, except for a single lifter pin 654, which holds driver 650 in the "up" or "ready" position. As will be described below, single lifter pin 654 is protruded by frictional forces imposed by driver projection 652, which overcome the spring bias of upper lifter spring 644, which is compressed in this state (see FIG. 48A).

[0271] 48A, lifter S / A 600 is shown in a cutaway side view taken along line 48A-48A in FIG. 48. FIG. 48A shows upper lifter spring 644 compressed due to the "holding" effect of the frictional force exerted by driver lug 652 on lifter pin 654.

[0272] 48B, lifter S / A 600 is shown in a cutaway bottom plan view taken along line 48B-48B of FIG. 48. FIG. 48B shows a single lifter pin 654 holding driver 650 in the ready position. The "held" driver protrusion (or "tooth") is designated 652. As can be seen in FIGS. 48A and 48B, driver 650 is again positioned at a substantially perpendicular angle relative to the longitudinal axis of lifter shaft 616.

[0273] Referring now to FIG. 48C, lifter S / A 600 is shown in a cutaway side view taken along line 48C-48C of FIG. 48. Note that the lifter pins 630 in FIG. 48C are all fully retracted, even though none of their associated springs 644 or 642 are compressed. These are pins 630 that are not in contact with a driver lug 652. When the driving stroke begins, lifter S / A 600 will have rotated just enough to rotate the single lifter pin 654 past the "retained" driver lug 652. Then, the upper lifter spring 644 will decompress, urging that single pin 654 back into the lifter pin housing 636 to join the other lifter pins 630 in their placement. The driver 650 is now "free" to begin its driving stroke, downward as viewed in FIG. 48.

[0274] 49, lifter S / A 600 is shown in a front view at the end of the driving stroke. Solenoid 614 has not yet been activated, and lifter pins 630 are retracted inside their lifter pin housings 636. Note that in this view, driver 650 is parked in an unaligned position, so that lifter pins 630 can successfully extend and then engage driver lugs 652 to perform a lifting stroke when called upon to do so.

[0275] 49A, lifter S / A 600 is shown in a cutaway side view taken along line 49A-49A in FIG. 49. At the end of the driving stroke, driver projections 652 are mostly over lifter S / A 600. In other words, driver 650 is in its "down" (driven) position. In FIGS. 49-49B, the initial interference condition is not shown because none of driver projections 652 will interfere with any of lifter pins 630, allowing the lifter pins to extend for the lifting stroke.

[0276] 49B, lifter S / A 600 is shown in a cutaway side view taken along line 49B-49B of FIG. 49. This view shows lifter S / A 600 immediately after driver 650 has completed its driving stroke and before lifter pins 630 are about to be extended.

[0277] Referring now to FIG. 50, lifter S / A 600 is shown in a front view. FIGS. 50-50C show the interference condition at the beginning of the lifting stroke. Solenoid 614 is activated, and the majority of lifter pins 630 protrude from lifter base ("guide") 604. Solenoid plunger 612 now pushes shuttle / holder 628 toward driver 650 (see FIG. 50A), pushing the majority of lifter pins into their extended position. The interference condition is indicated by reference numeral 656 in one of the lifter pins, with driver protrusion interference blocking that lifter pin 656. Unblocked lifter pin 658 is also shown, and this lifter pin will be described in more detail below (see FIG. 51).

[0278] Referring now to FIG. 50A, the lifter S / A 600 is shown in a cutaway side view taken along line 50A-50A in FIG. 50. FIG. 50A shows two lifter pins 630 protruding from the lifter base / guide 604. These two lifter pins are not in contact with the driver at this time. Referring now to FIG. 50B, the lifter S / A 600 is shown in a cutaway bottom plan view taken along line 50B-50B in FIG. 50. The majority of the lifter pins 630 are shown extending from the lifter base / guide 604. However, due to interference, one lifter pin 656 remains mostly inside the lifter base / guide 604 in a blocked position. The blocked lifter pin 656 compresses its respective lower lifter spring 642, while the protruding lifter pin decompresses the lower lifter spring 642. To clear the interference condition, lifter S / A 600 simply needs to continue rotating until the interfered (i.e., blocked) lifter pin 656 slides past the interference contact area. A "blocked" lifter pin is not in its fully "retracted" position because it is literally trying to move to its "extended" position but is unable to do so; therefore, such a "blocked" lifter pin will be understood to be partially extended as shown, which is the "blocked position."

[0279] 50C, lifter S / A 600 is shown in a cutaway side view taken along line 50C-50C of FIG. 50. This view shows details of the movement of the plunger, which moves the shuttle and compresses return spring 606.

[0280] 51, the lifter S / A 600 is shown in a front view as the lifting stroke continues, clearing the interference condition shown in FIGS. 50-50C. The solenoid 614 is still operating, causing the lifter pins 630 to protrude and extend from the lifter base ("guide") 604. As mentioned above, to clear the previous jam (or "interference") condition shown in FIGS. 50-50C, the lifter S / A 600 continues to rotate until the previously blocked lifter pin 656 slides past the interfering driver lug 652. The "next" lifter pin 658 will now be able to "grab" its respective driver lug 652 (as the lifter S / A 600 continues to rotate—in this view—counterclockwise) to begin lifting the driver 650 back toward the ready position. Note that as the lifter S / A 600 continues to rotate and lift the driver 650 toward the ready position, additional lifter pins 630 capture additional individual driver protrusions 652 .

[0281] 51A, lifter S / A 600 is shown in a cutaway side view taken along line 51A-51A in FIG. 51. Plunger 612 is still actuated and all lifter pins 630 are extended.

[0282] 51B, lifter S / A 600 is shown in a cutaway side view taken along line 51B-51B in FIG. 51. In this view, the interference condition shown in FIGS. 50-50C has been resolved with no interfering lifter pins 658. In this view, all of the lifter pins 630 are fully extended and can engage driver protrusions 652 as lifter base / guide 604 continues to rotate. It will be appreciated that the spacing between lifter pins 630 matches the spacing between driver protrusions 652 such that each lifter pin 630 "grabs" the "next" driver protrusion 652 as lifter S / A 600 rotates.

[0283] 52, plunger 612 is shown in an exploded view showing two internal flats 660. These two internal flats 660 are securely aligned with two flats 620 of lifter shaft 616 so that plunger 612 rotates with lifter shaft 616 but moves axially along lifter shaft 616 when solenoid 614 is activated or deactivated.

[0284] 53, lifter S / A 600 is shown, showing the two internal flats of plunger 612 and other portions of lifter S / A. Note that alignment of lifter pin 630 is ensured by flat 620 of lifter shaft 616 and two internal flats 660 of plunger 612, by the same flat 620 and two internal flats 626 of cover / guide 604, and finally by external flat 635 of plunger 612 and two internal flats 634 of shuttle / holder 628. This multiple internal and external flats of lifter S / A 600 ensure that all of these parts are aligned to rotate with the lifter shaft, ensuring alignment of lifter pin 630 as described above.

[0285] It should be noted that, for purposes of clarity, some of the embodiments illustrated herein do not have all of their components included in some of the drawings herein. To see examples of such outer housings and other components, particularly with respect to earlier designs, the reader is referred to other U.S. patents and applications owned by Kyocera Senco. Similarly, information regarding "how" the electronic controller operates to control tool functions can be found in other U.S. patents and applications owned by Kyocera Senco. Furthermore, other aspects of the tool technology of the present invention may be present in conventional fastener-driving tools sold by assignee Kyocera Senco Industrial Tools, Inc., including information disclosed in earlier U.S. patents and published applications. Examples of such publications are U.S. Patent Nos. 6,431,425, 5,927,585, 5,918,788, 5,732,870, 4,986,164, 4,679,719, 8,011,547, 8,267,296, 8,267,297, 8,011,441, 8,387,718, 8,286,722, 8,230,941, and 8,387,718. Nos. 8,602,282, 9,676,088, 10,478,954, 9,993,913, 10,549,412, 10,898,994, 10,821,585, and 8,763,874, and U.S. Patent Application Publication Nos. 2020 / 0156228, 2021 / 0016424, 2020 / 0070330, and 2020 / 0122308, all of which are incorporated by reference in their entireties.

[0286] As used herein, the term "proximal" may mean placing one physical object close to a second physical object, perhaps so that the two objects are adjacent to one another, but does not necessarily require that there be a third object disposed between them. In the technology disclosed herein, there may be cases where a "male positioning structure" is disposed "proximal" to a "female positioning structure." Generally, this may mean that the two (male and female) structures physically abut one another, or that they are "mated" to one another by virtue of a particular size and shape that essentially holds one structure oriented relative to the other and in an XY (e.g., horizontal and vertical) position, regardless of whether the two (male and female) structures actually contact one another along a continuous surface. Alternatively, two structures of any size and shape (whether male, female, or other) may be positioned somewhat near one another, regardless of whether they physically abut one another, and such a relationship can still be referred to as "proximal." Alternatively, two or more possible locations for a particular point can be specified relative to a precise attribute of a physical object, such as being "near" the end of a rod or being "at" the end of a rod, and all of those possible near / at locations can be considered "proximal" to that end of the rod. Furthermore, the term "proximal" can also have a meaning strictly related to a single object, where a single object may have two ends, the "distal end" being the end located somewhat farther away from a target reference point (or region), and the "proximal end" being the other end that would be located somewhat closer to that same target reference point (or region).

[0287] It will be understood that the various components described and / or illustrated herein may be manufactured in a variety of ways, including being fabricated in multiple parts or as a unitary piece for each of these components, without departing from the principles of the technology disclosed herein. For example, a component included as a recited element in the following claims may be fabricated as a unitary piece, or the component may be fabricated as a combined structure of several individual parts assembled together. However, that "multiple-piece component" would still be included within the scope of the claimed recited element for infringement purposes of claim interpretation, even if the claimed recited element appears to be described and illustrated herein only as a unitary structure.

[0288] All documents cited in the "Background" and "Detailed Description" sections are, in relevant part, incorporated herein by reference; the citation of any document should not be construed as an admission that it is prior art to the technology disclosed herein.

[0289] The foregoing description of the preferred embodiments has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the technology disclosed herein to the precise form disclosed, as the technology disclosed herein can be further modified within the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Any examples described or illustrated herein are intended as non-limiting examples, and many modifications or variations of those examples or preferred embodiments are possible in light of the above teachings without departing from the spirit and scope of the technology disclosed herein. The embodiments have been chosen and described in order to illustrate the principles of the technology disclosed herein and its practical application, thereby enabling those skilled in the art to utilize the technology disclosed herein in various embodiments and with various modifications suitable for the particular use contemplated. This application is therefore intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of the technology disclosed herein using its general principles. Further, this application is intended to cover such departures from the present disclosure as come within known or customary practice in the art to which this technology is disclosed and which fall within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. 1. A lifter for use in a fastener driving tool, the lifter comprising: a lifter shaft (79, 279, 616) including a first end and a second end and having a longitudinal axis (185, 385, 618) extending between the first end and the second end; a linear actuator (75, 275, 614) disposed proximal to the first end of the lifter shaft; a rotatable lifter subassembly comprising: a holder (150, 352, 628) disposed proximal to the linear actuator, the holder having a second plurality of openings (153, 353, 629); at least one guide (71, 274, 604) disposed proximal to the holder, the at least one guide having a first plurality of openings (139, 339, 624); at least one return spring (154, 354, 606) that provides a force in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the lifter shaft; a plurality of lifter pins (72, 272, 630) seated within the second plurality of openings and movable in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis (185, 385, 618); a plurality of lifter pin springs (174, 176, 374, 376, 642, 644) biasing each of the lifter pins in the direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis; and a driver (62, 262, 650) having a path of travel substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, the driver including a plurality of driver projections (66, 266, 652) along at least one longitudinal edge of the driver, the driver being disposed proximal to the rotatable lifter subassembly.

2. (a)(i) the first plurality of openings are arranged in a circular pattern; (ii) the second plurality of openings are arranged in a circular pattern, whereby the plurality of lifter pins can extend through the first plurality of openings; and (iii) the lifter shaft is in mechanical communication with at least one of the holder and the at least one guide; or (b) the at least one return spring is in mechanical communication with at least one of the linear actuator and the holder; or (c)(i) the at least one guide: (A) a first guide (76, 377, 636) disposed between the holder and the linear actuator; (B) a second guide (71, 274, 604) disposed proximal to the second end of the lifter shaft, the second guide having the first plurality of openings (139, 339, 624); (ii) the linear actuator comprises a solenoid (75, 275, 614) having a movable plunger (167, 367, 612); (iii) the first guide moves with the movable plunger to push the plurality of lifter pins through the second plurality of openings; or (d) the rotatable lifter subassembly rotates simultaneously with the rotation of the lifter shaft, and the plurality of lifter pins rotate about the longitudinal axis when the lifter shaft rotates; or (e) the lifter shaft rotates to perform a lifting stroke, during which the lifter pins in an extended position rotate in a circular motion and physically contact the driver to move the driver to a position ready to drive a fastener; The lifter according to claim 1 .

3. The lifter of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of lifter pins are engageable with the plurality of driver lugs for use in a lifting stroke.

4. Each of the individual lifter pins is mechanically biased by at least one of the linear actuator and the at least one of the plurality of lifter pin springs to move through one of the first plurality of openings to an extended position for use in the lifting stroke by the rotatable lifter subassembly; 4. The lifter of claim 3, wherein the lifter is mechanically biased by the at least one of the plurality of lifter pin springs to move in an opposite direction to a retracted position for use in a driving stroke by the rotatable lifter subassembly.

5. if no interference condition exists between a properly aligned driver and any of the lifter pins, at the beginning of the lifting stroke, each of the plurality of lifter pins is moved to the extended position so as to physically contact the plurality of driver protrusions and move the driver toward a ready position as the rotatable lifter subassembly rotates in a first direction; or if an interference condition exists between a misaligned driver and at least one of the plurality of lifter pins, during the initial stage of the lifting stroke, the at least one of the plurality of lifter pins is moved to a blocking position having an independent movement and not fully moving to the extended position; The lifter according to claim 4.

6. 1. A lifter for use with a fastener driving machine, comprising: a lifter shaft (79, 279, 616) including a first end and a second end and a longitudinal axis (185, 385, 618) extending between the first end and the second end; a linear actuator (75, 275, 614) disposed proximal to the first end of the lifter shaft; a rotatable lifter subassembly comprising: a holder (150, 352, 628) disposed proximal to the linear actuator and having a second plurality of openings (153, 353, 629); at least one guide (71, 274, 604) disposed proximal to said holder and having a first plurality of openings (139, 339, 624); at least one return spring (154, 354, 606) that provides a force in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the lifter shaft; a rotatable lifter subassembly including: a plurality of lifter pins (72, 272, 630) seated within the second plurality of openings and movable in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis.

7. (a)(i) the first plurality of openings are proximal to a periphery of the at least one guide; (ii) the second plurality of openings are proximate an outer periphery of the holder, such that the plurality of lifter pins can extend through the first plurality of openings; (iii) the lifter shaft is in mechanical communication with at least one of the holder and the at least one guide; or (b) the at least one return spring is in mechanical communication with at least one of the linear actuator and the holder; or (c)(i) the at least one guide: (A) a first guide (76, 377, 636) disposed between the holder and the linear actuator; (B) a second guide (71, 274, 604) disposed proximal to the second end of the lifter shaft, the second guide having the first plurality of openings (139, 339, 624); (ii) the linear actuator comprises a solenoid (75, 275, 614) having a movable plunger (167, 367, 612); (iii) the first guide moves with the movable plunger to push the plurality of lifter pins through the second plurality of openings; or (d) the lifter shaft rotates to perform a lifting stroke, during which the lifter pins in the extended position rotate in a circular motion and make physical contact with a driver (62, 262, 650) to move the driver to a position ready to drive a fastener; or (e) the rotatable lifter subassembly rotates simultaneously with the rotation of the lifter shaft, and the plurality of lifter pins rotate about the longitudinal axis when the lifter shaft rotates; The lifter according to claim 6.

8. a first plurality of lifter pin springs (176, 376, 642) mechanically biasing each of the plurality of lifter pins to move through at least one of the first plurality of openings in the direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis to an extended position for use in a lifting stroke by the rotatable lifter subassembly; a second plurality of lifter pin springs (174, 374, 644) mechanically biasing each of the plurality of lifter pins to move at least one of the plurality of lifter pins to a retracted position opposite the extended position for use in a driving stroke by the rotatable lifter subassembly; The lifter of claim 6 further comprising:

9. A lifter for a fastener driving tool, a lifter shaft (79, 279, 616) including a first end and a second end and having a longitudinal axis (185, 385, 618) extending between the first end and the second end; a linear actuator (75, 275, 614) disposed proximal to the first end of the lifter shaft; 1. A lifter subassembly comprising: a guide (71, 274, 604) disposed proximal to the second end of the lifter shaft and having a first plurality of openings (139, 339, 624) arranged in a circular pattern; a holder (150, 352, 628) disposed proximal to the linear actuator, the holder having a second plurality of openings (153, 353, 629), the second plurality of openings being arranged in a circular pattern, the lifter shaft being in mechanical communication with at least one of the linear actuator and the holder; at least one return spring (154, 354, 606) that provides a force in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the lifter shaft and that is in mechanical communication with at least one of the linear actuator and the holder; a plurality of lifter pins (72, 272, 630) seated within the second plurality of openings and movable in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis (185, 385, 618); a plurality of lifter pin springs (174, 176, 374, 376, 642, 644) biasing each of the lifter pins in the direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis, each of the lifter pins comprising: (i) being mechanically biased to move through one of the first plurality of openings into an extended position for a lifting stroke by the lifter subassembly; and (ii) being mechanically biased to a retracted position for a driving stroke by the lifter subassembly; (iii) a lifter subassembly including: a plurality of lifter pin springs, each of which is movable to a blocking position during an initial stage of the lifting stroke; a driver (62, 262, 650) having a path of travel substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (185, 385, 618), the driver including a plurality of protrusions (66, 266, 652) along at least one longitudinal edge of the driver such that the lifter pins in the extended position are positioned in physical contact with the plurality of protrusions to move the driver toward a ready position as the lifter subassembly rotates; (a) if an interference condition exists between a misaligned driver and at least one of the lifter pins, during the initial stage of the lifting stroke, the at least one of the lifter pins exhibits independent movement and does not move fully to the extended position but instead moves to the blocking position; (b) the at least one of the plurality of lifter pins in the blocked position can continue to move along a surface of the driver as the lifter subassembly rotates until it reaches an unblocked position, at which point the at least one of the plurality of lifter pins contacts the at least one of the plurality of protrusions of the driver and begins to push the driver into the lifting stroke.

10. (a)(i) the at least one of the plurality of lifter pins that begins to push the driver into the lifting stroke includes the same lifter pin as the previously blocked lifter pin; or (ii) the at least one of the plurality of lifter pins that begins to push the driver into the lifting stroke includes a lifter pin that is different from the lifter pin that was previously blocked; or (b) the back surface of the driver is substantially flat and blocked, allowing the at least one of the plurality of lifter pins to slide along the back surface of the driver until it reaches an unblocked position where it can be fully extended; or (c) (i) a back surface of the driver is substantially flat and blocked, allowing the at least one of the plurality of lifter pins to slide along the back surface of the driver until it reaches an unblocked position where it can be fully extended; (ii) rotational movement of the lifter subassembly causes the at least one of the plurality of lifter pins to slide along the back surface of the driver; The lifter according to claim 9.

11. A lifter for a fastener driving tool, the lifter comprising: a rotatable lifter shaft (79, 279, 616) including a first end and a second end and a longitudinal axis (185, 385, 618) extending between the first end and the second end; a linear actuator (75, 275, 614) disposed proximal to the first end of the lifter shaft; a rotatable lifter subassembly comprising: a first cover (71, 274, 604) disposed proximal to the second end of the lifter shaft, the first cover having a first plurality of openings (139, 339, 624) proximal to an outer periphery of the first cover; a movable second cover (150, 352, 628) disposed proximal to the linear actuator, the movable second cover including a plurality of hollow cylinders having openings (153, 353, 629) proximal to an outer periphery of the second cover, the lifter shaft being in mechanical communication with at least one of the first cover and the second cover; at least one return spring (154, 354, 606) that provides a force in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the lifter shaft and that is in mechanical communication with at least one of the linear actuator and the second cover; a plurality of lifter pins (72, 272, 630) mounted within the plurality of hollow cylinders having openings and movable in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis (185, 385, 618); a rotatable lifter subassembly including: a driver (62, 262, 650) having a path of travel substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, the driver including a plurality of protrusions (66, 266, 652) along at least one longitudinal edge of the driver, whereby the plurality of lifter pins in an extended position are positioned in physical contact with the plurality of protrusions to move the driver toward a ready position as the lifter subassembly rotates; at the end of a lifting stroke, one of the plurality of lifter pins is held in the extended position by physically contacting one of the plurality of protrusions of the driver and holding the driver until a new driving stroke is initiated; At the end of the lifting stroke, other ones of the lifter pins are moved to a retracted position, thereby clearing the driver for the new driving stroke.

12. (a) the effect of at least one of the following: (i) the linear actuator; (ii) the at least one return spring; moving other ones of the lifter pins to the retracted position at the end of the lifting stroke; or (b) the linear actuator comprises a solenoid (75, 275, 614) including a movable plunger (167, 367, 612); The lifter of claim 11.

13. A lifter for a fastener driving tool, a lifter shaft (79, 279, 616) including a first end and a second end and a longitudinal axis (185, 385, 618) extending between the first end and the second end; a linear actuator (75, 275, 614) disposed proximal to the first end of the lifter shaft; a rotatable lifter subassembly comprising: a first cover (71, 274, 604) disposed proximal to the second end of the lifter shaft, the first cover having a first plurality of openings (139, 339, 624) proximal to an outer periphery of the first cover; a second cover (150, 352, 628) disposed proximal to the linear actuator, the second cover having a second plurality of openings (153, 353, 629) proximal to an outer periphery of the second cover, the lifter shaft being in mechanical communication with at least one of the first cover and the second cover; at least one return spring (154, 354, 606) that provides a force in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the lifter shaft and that is in mechanical communication with at least one of the linear actuator and the second cover; a rotatable lifter subassembly including: a plurality of lifter pins (72, 272, 630) seated within the second plurality of openings and movable in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis (185, 385, 618); (i) a first plurality of lifter pin springs (176, 376, 642) mechanically biasing each of said plurality of lifter pins to move through at least one of said first plurality of openings in said direction substantially parallel to said longitudinal axis to an extended position for use in a lifting stroke by said rotatable lifter subassembly; (ii) a second plurality of lifter pin springs (174, 374, 644) mechanically biasing each of the plurality of lifter pins to move at least one of the lifter pins in the direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis to a retracted position opposite the extended position for use in a driving stroke by the rotatable lifter subassembly.

14. (a) the linear actuator comprises a solenoid (75, 275, 614) including a moveable plunger (167, 367, 612); or (b)(i) the linear actuator comprises a solenoid (75, 275, 614) including a moveable plunger (167, 367, 612); (ii) the plunger actuates a shuttle (150, 352, 628) that moves the plurality of lifter pins to the extended position; or (c) the first plurality of openings in the first cover are collinear with the second plurality of openings in the second cover; The lifter of claim 13.

15. The lifter of claim 13 , wherein the first plurality of openings in the first cover are arranged in a circular pattern and the second plurality of openings in the second cover are arranged in a circular pattern.

16. 16. The lifter of claim 15, wherein the lifter shaft rotates to perform the lifting stroke, and wherein the plurality of lifter pins in the extended position rotate in a circular motion and make physical contact with a driver (62, 262, 650) to move the driver to a position ready to drive a fastener.

17. At the beginning of the lifting stroke: (a) at least a majority of the plurality of lifter pins move to the extended position; (b) when a mechanical interference condition with the driver exists, at least one of the plurality of lifter pins moves to a blocking position instead of moving to the extended position; The lifter of claim 16.

18. A lifter for a fastener driving tool, the lifter comprising: a lifter shaft (79, 279, 616) including a first end and a second end and having a longitudinal axis (185, 385, 618) extending between the first end and the second end; a linear actuator (75, 275, 614) disposed proximal to the first end of the lifter shaft; a rotatable lifter subassembly comprising: a first holder (71, 274, 604) disposed proximal to the second end of the lifter shaft and having a first plurality of openings (139, 339, 624) arranged in a circular pattern; a second holder (150, 352, 628) disposed proximal to the linear actuator, the second holder having a second plurality of openings (153, 353, 629), the second plurality of openings being arranged in a circular pattern, the lifter shaft being in mechanical communication with at least one of the first holder and the second holder; at least one return spring (154, 354, 606) that provides a force in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the lifter shaft and that is in mechanical communication with at least one of the linear actuator and the second holder; a plurality of lifter pins (72, 272, 630) seated within the second plurality of openings and movable in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis (185, 385, 618); a plurality of lifter pin springs (174, 176, 374, 376, 642, 644) biasing each of said lifter pins in said direction substantially parallel to said longitudinal axis, whereby each of said lifter pins: (i) mechanically biased to move through one of the first plurality of openings into an extended position for use in a lifting stroke by the rotatable lifter subassembly; and (ii) being mechanically biased to a retracted position for use in a driving stroke by the rotatable lifter subassembly; (iii) a plurality of lifter pin springs, each of which is movable to a blocking position during an initial stage of the lifting stroke; and a movable driver (62, 262, 650) having a path of travel substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, the driver including a plurality of protrusions (66, 266, 652) along at least one longitudinal edge of the driver, whereby the lifter pins in the extended position are positioned in physical contact with the plurality of protrusions to move the driver toward a ready position as the rotatable lifter subassembly rotates; (a) when no interference condition exists between a properly aligned driver and any of the lifter pins, each of the plurality of lifter pins is moved to the extended position during the initiation stage of the lifting stroke; or (b) if an interference condition exists between a misaligned driver and at least one of the lifter pins, at the start of the lifting stroke, at least one of the plurality of lifter pins exhibits independent movement and is moved to the blocking position, in which the at least one of the lifter pins does not move fully to the extended position.

19. (a) the linear actuator comprises a solenoid (75, 272, 614) including a moveable plunger (167, 367, 612); or (b)(i) the linear actuator comprises a solenoid (75, 272, 614) including a moveable plunger (167, 367, 612); (ii) the plunger actuates a shuttle (150, 352, 628) that moves the plurality of lifter pins to the extended position; or (c) the first plurality of openings of the first holder are collinear with the second plurality of openings of the second holder; or (d) the at least one of the plurality of lifter pins, which is disposed in the blocking position during the initial stage of the lifting stroke, moves fully to the extended position after the rotatable lifter subassembly has rotated a distance sufficient to resolve the interference condition with the misaligned driver.

19. The lifter of claim 18.

20. 1. A method for lifting a driver for use in a fastener driving tool, the method comprising: providing a lifter shaft (79, 279, 616) including a first end and a second end, the lifter shaft having a longitudinal axis (185, 385, 618) extending between the first end and the second end; providing a linear actuator (75, 275, 614) disposed proximal to the first end of the lifter shaft; providing a rotatable lifter subassembly, said rotatable lifter subassembly comprising: a first holder (71, 274, 604) disposed proximal to the second end of the lifter shaft, the first holder having a first plurality of openings (139, 339, 624), the first plurality of openings being arranged in a circular pattern; a second holder (150, 352, 628) disposed proximal to the linear actuator, the second holder having a second plurality of openings (153, 353, 629), the second plurality of openings being arranged in a circular pattern, the lifter shaft being in mechanical communication with at least one of the first holder and the second holder; at least one return spring (154, 354, 606) that provides a force in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the lifter shaft and that is in mechanical communication with at least one of the linear actuator and the second holder; a plurality of lifter pins (72, 272, 630) seated within the second plurality of openings and movable in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis (185, 385, 618); a plurality of lifter pin springs (174, 176, 374, 376, 642, 644) biasing each of the lifter pins in the direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis, each of the lifter pin springs comprising: (i) biasing the at least one of the lifter pins to move through one of the first plurality of openings to an extended position for use in a lifting stroke by the rotatable lifter subassembly; (ii) biasing the at least one of the lifter pins to a retracted position for use in a driving stroke by the rotatable lifter subassembly; (iii) a rotatable lifter subassembly that biases an individual lifter pin of the plurality of lifter pins to a partially extended, blocked position if any individual lifter pin of the plurality of lifter pins is blocked due to an interference condition at the start of the lifting stroke; providing a movable driver (62, 262, 650) having a path of travel substantially perpendicular to said longitudinal axis, said driver including a plurality of protrusions (66, 266, 652) along at least one longitudinal edge of said driver, whereby said lifter pin in said extended position is positioned to physically contact said plurality of protrusions to move said driver toward a ready position when said rotatable lifter subassembly is rotated; (a) moving each of the plurality of lifter pins to the extended position during the initiation stage of the lifting stroke if no interference condition exists between a properly aligned driver and any of the lifter pins; or (b) when an interference condition exists between a misaligned driver and at least one of the lifter pins, allowing the at least one of the lifter pins to exhibit independent movement during the initial stage of the lifting stroke, thereby moving the independently movable lifter pin to the blocking position where the blocking position is only partially extended.

21. (a) the linear actuator comprises a solenoid (75, 275, 614) including a moveable plunger (167, 367, 612); or (b)(i) the linear actuator comprises a solenoid (75, 275, 614) including a moveable plunger (167, 367, 612); (ii) further comprising the step of moving the plunger to actuate a shuttle (150, 352, 628) that moves the plurality of lifter pins to the extended position; or (c) the first plurality of openings of the first holder are collinear with the second plurality of openings of the second holder; 21. The method of claim 20.

22. (a) when at least one of the plurality of lifter pins is disposed in the blocking position during the initial stage of the lifting stroke; (b) rotating the rotatable lifter subassembly such that the rotatable lifter subassembly has rotated a sufficient distance to resolve the interference condition with the misaligned driver; (c) moving the blocked lifter pin from the blocked position to the extended position; 21. The method of claim 20, further comprising:

23. A lifter for a fastener driving tool, the lifter comprising: a lifter shaft (79) including a first end and a second end and a longitudinal axis (185) extending between the first end and the second end; a solenoid (75) disposed proximal to the first end of the lifter shaft and including a movable plunger (167); a rotatable lifter subassembly comprising: a hollow barrel (74) having a first cover (71) disposed proximal to the second end of the lifter shaft, the first cover having a first plurality of openings (139) proximal to an outer periphery of the first cover; a second cover (150) disposed proximate to the solenoid, the second cover having a second plurality of openings (153) proximate an outer periphery of the second cover, the lifter shaft being in mechanical communication with at least one of the first cover and the second cover; a plurality of lifter pins (72) seated within the second plurality of openings and movable in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis (185); a movable shuttle subassembly comprising: a shuttle base (150) that substantially houses the plurality of lifter pins; a return spring (154) in mechanical communication with at least one of the plunger and the shuttle base, the return spring providing a force in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the lifter shaft; and a rotatable lifter subassembly including: During a lifting stroke, the solenoid is activated, urging the plunger toward the second end and compressing the return spring toward the second end, causing at least a majority of the plurality of lifter pins to protrude from the first plurality of openings in the first cover; During a driving stroke, the solenoid is not activated, the plunger is moved by the return spring to a position more proximal to the first end, and the plurality of lifter pins are substantially contained inside the hollow barrel so as not to interfere with the driving stroke.

24. 24. The lifter of claim 23, wherein the rotatable lifter subassembly rotates simultaneously as the lifter shaft rotates.

25. When the lifter shaft rotates, the plurality of lifter pins rotate about the longitudinal axis.

25. The lifter of claim 24.

26. a driver (62) including a plurality of protrusions (66) along at least one longitudinal edge of said driver; During the lifting stroke, at least one of the plurality of lifter pins mechanically engages at least one of the plurality of protrusions to lift the driver toward a ready position as the lifter shaft is rotated.

26. The lifter of claim 25.

27. A lifter for a fastener driving tool, a lifter shaft (79, 279, 616) including a first end and a second end and a longitudinal axis (185, 385, 618) extending between the first end and the second end; a linear actuator (75, 275, 614) disposed proximal to the first end of the lifter shaft; a rotatable lifter subassembly comprising: a first cover (71, 274, 604) disposed proximal to the second end of the lifter shaft, the first cover having a first plurality of openings (139, 339, 624) proximal to an outer periphery of the first cover; a movable second cover (150, 352, 628) disposed proximate to the linear actuator, the second cover including a plurality of hollow cylinders having openings (153, 353, 629) proximate an outer periphery of the second cover, the lifter shaft being in mechanical communication with at least one of the first cover and the second cover; at least one return spring (154, 354, 606) that provides a force in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the lifter shaft and that is in mechanical communication with at least one of the linear actuator and the second cover; a plurality of lifter pins (72, 272, 630) mounted within the plurality of hollow cylinders having openings and movable in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis (185, 385, 618); a first plurality of lifter pin springs (176, 376, 642) mechanically biasing each of the plurality of lifter pins to move through at least one of the first plurality of openings in the direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis to an extended position for use in a lifting stroke by the rotatable lifter subassembly; a second plurality of lifter pin springs (174, 374, 644) mechanically biasing each of the plurality of lifter pins to move at least one of the plurality of lifter pins to a retracted position opposite the extended position in the direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis for use in a driving stroke by the rotatable lifter subassembly.

28. (a) the linear actuator comprises a solenoid including a movable plunger; or (b)(i) the linear actuator comprises a solenoid (75, 275, 614) including a moveable plunger (167, 367, 612); (ii) the plunger actuates the second cover, which acts as a movable shuttle (150, 352, 628) that moves the plurality of lifter pins to the extended position unless at least one of the plurality of lifter pins is blocked; 28. The lifter of claim 27.

29. (a) the first plurality of openings in the first cover are collinear with the plurality of hollow cylinders having openings in the second cover; or (b) the second cover has a unitary structure including all of the plurality of hollow cylinders that seat and at least partially house all of the plurality of lifter pins, and in the unitary structure, the second cover moves in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the lifter shaft in response to a state of the linear actuator, thereby (i) when the linear actuator is in an inoperative state, each of the plurality of lifter pins attempts to move to the retracted position; (ii) when the linear actuator is in an actuated state, each of the plurality of lifter pins attempts to move to the extended position; 28. The lifter of claim 27.

30. (a) the first plurality of openings in the first cover are arranged in a circular pattern, and the plurality of hollow cylinders with openings in the second cover are arranged in a circular pattern; or (b)(i) the first plurality of openings in the first cover are arranged in a circular pattern, and the plurality of hollow cylinders with openings in the second cover are arranged in a circular pattern; (ii) the lifter shaft rotates to perform the lifting stroke, during which the lifter pins in the extended position rotate in a circular motion and physically contact a driver (62, 262, 650) to move the driver toward a position ready to drive a fastener; or (c)(i) the first plurality of openings in the first cover are arranged in a circular pattern, and the plurality of hollow cylinders with openings in the second cover are arranged in a circular pattern; (ii) the lifter shaft rotates to perform the lifting stroke, during which the lifter pins in the extended position rotate in a circular motion and physically contact the driver to move the driver toward a position ready to drive a fastener; (iii) at the beginning of the lifting stroke; (A) at least a majority of the plurality of lifter pins move to the extended position; (B) when a mechanical interference condition with the driver exists, at least one of the plurality of lifter pins moves to a blocking position instead of moving to the extended position; 28. The lifter of claim 27.

31. a movable driver (62, 262, 650) having a path of travel substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, the driver including a plurality of protrusions (66, 266, 652) along at least one longitudinal edge of the driver, whereby the lifter pin in the extended position is positioned in physical contact with the plurality of protrusions to move the driver toward a ready position as the rotatable lifter subassembly rotates; When the movable driver is in a ready position before the driving stroke, one of the plurality of lifter pins is extended by frictional contact with the plurality of protrusions and all other of the plurality of lifter pins are retracted, which the linear actuator transitions to a de-energized state; The movable second cover is moved to a non-operating position, This allows the other lifter pins among the plurality of lifter pins to move to the retracted position.

28. The lifter of claim 27.

32. At the start of the driving stroke, (a) the linear actuator remains in the de-energized state; (b) the lifter shaft rotates to perform the driving stroke, and during the driving stroke, the extended one of the plurality of lifter pins moves to a non-contact position with respect to the plurality of protrusions; (c) then, the one of the plurality of lifter pins moves to the retracted position; 32. The lifter of claim 31, wherein (d) all of said plurality of lifter pins remain in said retracted position until said driving stroke is completed.

33. A lifter for a fastener driving tool, a lifter shaft (79, 279, 616) including a first end and a second end and a longitudinal axis (185, 385, 618) extending between the first end and the second end; a linear actuator (75, 275, 614) disposed proximal to the first end of the lifter shaft; A rotatable lifter subassembly, the rotatable lifter subassembly comprising: a first cover (71, 274, 604) disposed proximal to the second end of the lifter shaft, the first cover having a first plurality of openings (139, 339, 624) proximal to an outer periphery of the first cover; a movable second cover (150, 352, 628) disposed proximal to the linear actuator, the movable second cover including a plurality of hollow cylinders having openings (153, 353, 629) proximal to an outer periphery of the movable second cover, the lifter shaft being in mechanical communication with at least one of the first cover and the movable second cover; at least one return spring (154, 354, 606) that provides a force in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the lifter shaft and that is in mechanical communication with at least one of the linear actuator and the movable second cover; a rotatable lifter subassembly including: a plurality of lifter pins (72, 272, 630) mounted within the plurality of hollow cylinders having openings and movable in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis (185, 385, 618); a movable driver (62, 262, 650) having a path of travel substantially perpendicular to said longitudinal axis, said driver including a plurality of protrusions (66, 266, 652) along at least one longitudinal edge of said driver, whereby said plurality of lifter pins in an extended position are positioned in physical contact with said plurality of protrusions to move said driver toward a ready position as said rotatable lifter subassembly rotates; (a) when no interference condition exists between a properly aligned driver and any of the plurality of lifter pins, at the beginning of a lifting stroke, each of the plurality of lifter pins is moved to the extended position; or (b) if an interference condition exists between a misaligned driver and at least one of the plurality of lifter pins, during the initial stage of the lifting stroke, the at least one of the plurality of lifter pins exhibits independent movement and is moved to a blocking position, in which the at least one of the plurality of lifter pins does not move fully to the extended position.

34. (a) a first plurality of lifter pin springs (176, 376, 642) mechanically biasing each of the plurality of lifter pins to move through at least one of the first plurality of openings in the direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis to the extended position to enable the lifting stroke; (b) a second plurality of lifter pin springs (174, 374, 644) mechanically biasing each of the plurality of lifter pins to move at least one of the plurality of lifter pins in the direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis to a retracted position opposite the extended position to enable a driving stroke; 34. The lifter of claim 33 further comprising:

35. (a) the linear actuator comprises a solenoid (75, 275, 614) including a moveable plunger (167, 367, 612); or (b)(i) the linear actuator comprises a solenoid (75, 275, 614) including a moveable plunger (167, 367, 612); (ii) the plunger actuates the movable second cover, which acts as a movable shuttle (150, 352, 628) that moves the plurality of lifter pins to the extended position unless at least one of the plurality of lifter pins is blocked; or (c) the movable second cover comprises a unitary structure including all of the plurality of hollow cylinders that seat and at least partially house all of the plurality of lifter pins, wherein in the unitary structure, the movable second cover moves in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the lifter shaft in response to a state of the linear actuator, thereby (i) when the linear actuator is in an inoperative state, each of the plurality of lifter pins attempts to move to a retracted position; (ii) when the linear actuator is in an actuated state, each of the plurality of lifter pins attempts to move to the extended position; or (d) the first plurality of openings in the first cover are collinear with the plurality of hollow cylinders having openings in the movable second cover; 34. The lifter of claim 33.

36. 34. The lifter of claim 33, wherein the first plurality of openings in the first cover are arranged in a circular pattern and the plurality of hollow cylinders with openings in the movable second cover are arranged in a circular pattern.

37. 37. The lifter of claim 36, wherein the lifter shaft rotates to perform the lifting stroke, and wherein the plurality of lifter pins in the extended position rotate in a circular motion and make physical contact with the driver to move the driver toward a position ready to drive a fastener.

38. During the initial stage of the lifting stroke: (a) at least a majority of the plurality of lifter pins move to the extended position; 38. The lifter of claim 37, wherein (b) at least one of the plurality of lifter pins moves to a blocking position instead of moving to the extended position when a mechanical interference condition with the driver exists.

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