Power tool system, control method and program

Abstract

To improve work efficiency.SOLUTION: An electric power tool system 1 includes: an electric power tool 2 used for work on a work target; and a management system 3 that communicates with the electric power tool 2. The work includes a first work and a second work performed after completion of the first work. After the electric power tool 2 completes the first work, the management system 3 transmits setting information on the second work to the electric power tool 2. After receiving the setting information, the electric power tool 2 transmits a work result of the first work to the management system 3.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to a power tool system, a control method, and a program. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a power tool system, a control method, and a program including a power tool used for working on a work target.

Background Art

[0002] The work management device described in Patent Document 1 includes a work information acquisition unit, a position information acquisition unit, a work target information acquisition unit, and an information management unit. The work information acquisition unit acquires work information regarding the content of the work performed on the work target from the tool used for working on the work target. The position information acquisition unit acquires position information of the location where the work on the work target is performed using the tool. The work target information acquisition unit acquires work target information for identifying the work target based on the information read from the work target. The information management unit associates the work information, the position information, and the work target information and stores them in the storage unit.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Conventionally, a work management device that receives work information of completed work from a tool for working on a work target is known (see Patent Document 1). In a work management system including such a work management device, when the tool is configured to receive setting information of the next work from the work management device after transmitting the work information to the work management device, the next work cannot be started until the transmission of the work result is completed, so there is a possibility that the work efficiency may decrease.

[0005] This disclosure is made in view of the above-mentioned reasons and aims to provide an electric power tool system, control method, and program that can improve work efficiency. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A power tool system according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises a power tool used for work on a work object, and a management system that communicates with the power tool. The work includes a first work and a second work performed after the completion of the first work. The management system transmits setting information relating to the second work to the power tool after the power tool has completed the first work. After receiving the setting information, the power tool transmits the work result of the first work to the management system.

[0007] A control method according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a control method for a power tool system comprising a power tool used for work on a work object and a management system that communicates with the power tool. The work includes a first work and a second work performed after the completion of the first work. The control method includes a first work execution step, a reception step, and a work result transmission step. In the first work execution step, the first work is executed. In the reception step, after the execution of the first work, setting information relating to the second work is received from the management system. In the work result transmission step, after receiving the setting information, the work result of the first work is transmitted to the management system.

[0008] A program relating to one aspect of this disclosure includes, for a computer system, the control method The receiving step and the work result transmission step are included. Make it run. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to this disclosure, work efficiency can be improved. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1]Figure 1 is a schematic system configuration diagram of a power tool system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a sequence diagram illustrating the operation of the same power tool system. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a block diagram of the same power tool system. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a power tool used in the power tool system described above. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0011] An electric tool system 1 according to an embodiment of this disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that the figures described in the following embodiments are schematic diagrams, and the ratios of the size and thickness of each component in each figure do not necessarily reflect the actual dimensional ratios. Furthermore, the embodiments and modifications described below are merely examples of this disclosure, and this disclosure is not limited to these embodiments and modifications. Even outside of these embodiments and modifications, various modifications are possible depending on the design, etc., as long as they do not depart from the technical idea of ​​this disclosure. Also, the following embodiments (including modifications) may be implemented in appropriate combinations.

[0012] (1) Overview First, an overview of the power tool system 1 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 and 2.

[0013] As shown in Figure 1, the power tool system 1 comprises a power tool 2 and a management system 3. In the following embodiment, the management system 3 includes a receiver 4 and a host device 5, but the functions of the receiver 4 and the host device 5 may be integrated into a single housing.

[0014] Power tool 2 is used for working on the workpiece.

[0015] The management system 3 communicates with the power tool 2.

[0016] The work performed by the power tool 2 includes, as shown in FIG. 2, a first work and a second work performed after the completion of the first work.

[0017] After the power tool 2 completes the first work, the management system 3 transmits setting information regarding the second work to the power tool 2.

[0018] After receiving the setting information regarding the second work, the power tool 2 transmits the work result of the first work to the management system 3.

[0019] Here, the power tool 2 is a portable tool that the user carries and uses. The "work" performed using the power tool 2 is, for example, the work of fastening a fastening member such as a screw or a bolt to a mounting member, and in this case, the "work object" is the fastening member. Note that the "work" and its "work object" using the power tool 2 are not limited to the above, and can be changed as appropriate.

[0020] Also, the "setting information" includes information regarding the work content of the work performed using the power tool 2. When the work performed using the power tool 2 is the fastening work of a fastening member, the setting information preferably includes information regarding the fastening torque. The information regarding the fastening torque may be the set value (torque value) of the fastening torque, or may be the number of strikes when the power tool 2 is an impact tool.

[0021] In the power tool system 1 of the present embodiment, after the power tool 2 completes the first work, the management system 3 transmits setting information regarding the second work to the power tool 2, and after receiving the setting information regarding the second work, the power tool 2 transmits the work result of the first work to the management system 3. That is, in the power tool system 1, the reception of the setting information regarding the second work is performed with priority over the transmission of the work result of the first work. Thereby, for example, when the data amount of the work result of the first work is large and it takes time to transmit the work result, during the transmission of the work result of the first work, the transmission of the work result of the first work can be interrupted and the second work can be started, so that the work efficiency of the work using the power tool 2 can be improved.

[0022] (2) Details Hereinafter, the details of the power tool system 1 according to the embodiment will be described.

[0023] (2.1) Configuration Hereinafter, the configuration of the power tool system 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1, 3, and 4.

[0024] The power tool system 1 of the present embodiment is used, for example, in an assembly line for performing product assembly work in a factory. Note that the usage of the power tool system 1 is not limited to the factory assembly line, and other usages may be possible. The power tool system 1 may be used, for example, in work for constructing a building at a construction site such as a construction project.

[0025] As shown in FIG. 1, the power tool system 1 includes a power tool 2 and a management system 3. The management system 3 includes a receiver 4 and a host device 5. Here, the receiver 4 and the host device 5 are connected via a wired network 6 such as Ethernet (registered trademark). In FIG. 1, the number of power tools 2 is one, but the number of power tools 2 that can communicate with one receiver 4 is not limited to one, and may be two or more, and can be changed as appropriate. Also, in FIG. 1, the number of receivers 4 is one, but a plurality of receivers 4 may be connected to one host device 5, and the number of receivers 4 can be changed as appropriate.

[0026] Next, the details of each device constituting the power tool system 1 will be described with reference to FIG. 3.

[0027] (2.1.1) Power Tool As shown in FIG. 3, the power tool 2 includes a control unit 21, an operation unit 22, a drive unit 23, a sensor unit 24, a first communication unit 25, a power supply unit 26, a storage unit 27, and a display unit 28.

[0028] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 4, the power tool 2 is equipped with a body 200 for housing or holding its various parts. The body 200 comprises a cylindrical body portion 201 and a grip portion 202 that protrudes radially from the circumferential surface of the body portion 201. An output shaft 231 protrudes from one end of the body portion 201 in the axial direction. The output shaft 231 is provided with a socket 232 to which a tip tool 7 (for example, a screwdriver bit) suited to the fastening member of the workpiece is detachably attached. A battery pack 203, which houses a power supply unit 26 in a resin case, is detachably attached to one end of the grip portion 202 (the lower end in Figure 4).

[0029] The control unit 21 controls the operation of the drive unit 23, sensor unit 24, first communication unit 25, etc. The control unit 21 is implemented by a computer system having one or more processors and memory, and the computer system functions as the control unit 21 by having one or more processors execute a program stored in memory. The program is pre-recorded in the memory of the control unit 21 here, but it may also be provided via a telecommunication line such as the Internet, or recorded on a non-temporary recording medium such as a memory card. The control unit 21 may be composed of, for example, an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) or an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit). The microcontroller (circuit board, etc.) that constitutes the control unit 21 is housed inside, for example, the grip unit 202.

[0030] The operating unit 22 includes a trigger switch 221 provided on the grip portion 202. The trigger switch 221 receives an operation to operate the drive unit 23. Specifically, when the trigger switch 221 is operated by a user or the like, an input signal proportional to the amount the trigger switch 221 is pulled in (operated) is input to the control unit 21. The control unit 21 controls the operating state of the drive unit 23 based on the input signal from the operating unit 22. Specifically, the control unit 21 controls the drive unit 23 to rotate at a speed corresponding to the input signal from the operating unit 22, thereby adjusting the speed of the motor 233.

[0031] The drive unit 23 includes a motor 233, a drive circuit (not shown), an impact mechanism 234, and an output shaft 231. The drive unit 23 drives the end tool 7, which performs work on a workpiece, such as a fastening member like a screw or bolt. Specifically, the drive circuit controls the rotation of the motor 233 in accordance with a control signal input from the control unit 21. The rotation of the motor 233 is transmitted via the impact mechanism 234 to the output shaft 231 and the end tool 7, which is attached to the output shaft 231 via a socket 232. If the output torque is below a predetermined level, the impact mechanism 234 reduces the rotation of the motor 233's output shaft and transmits it to the output shaft 231 and the end tool 7. If the output torque exceeds a predetermined level, the impact mechanism 234 is configured to apply a striking force to the output shaft 231 and the end tool 7 to rotate the fastening component of the workpiece. As shown in Figure 4, the motor 233 and the impact mechanism 234 are housed inside the body 201. It should be noted that the drive unit 23 is not required to include an impact mechanism 234; the drive unit 23 may only have a reduction mechanism (for example, a planetary gear mechanism) that reduces the rotation of the output shaft of the motor 233 and transmits it to the output shaft 231 and the tip tool 7. In other words, the power tool 2 is not limited to an impact tool, but may also be a rotary tool such as a screwdriver or drill driver.

[0032] The sensor unit 24 measures the tightening torque applied by the drive unit 23. The sensor unit 24 is equipped with a magnetostrictive torque sensor 241 attached to the output shaft 231. The magnetostrictive torque sensor 241 detects the change in magnetic permeability corresponding to the strain generated when torque is applied to the output shaft of the motor 233 using a coil installed in the non-rotating part, and outputs a voltage signal proportional to the strain. As a result, the sensor unit 24 measures the torque applied to the output shaft 231. In other words, the sensor unit 24 measures the torque (tightening torque) that the power tool 2 applies to the workpiece. The sensor unit 24 outputs the measured torque (tightening torque) to the control unit 21. Note that the sensor unit 24 is not limited to one equipped with a torque sensor 241, and may also include one that converts the change in the rotational speed of the output shaft of the motor 233 detected by a rotation sensor into a tightening torque value.

[0033] The control unit 21 controls the drive unit 23 so that the tightening torque becomes a torque setting value set based on the setting information. For example, when the tightening torque measured by the torque sensor 241 reaches the torque setting value, the control unit 21 stops the rotation of the motor 233. The torque setting value is changeable and is changed by the control unit 21 based on the setting information transmitted from the receiver 4 to the power tool 2.

[0034] Furthermore, the drive unit 23 has two operating modes: a drive-disabled mode in which driving is suppressed, and a drive-allowed mode in which driving is permitted. The control unit 21 switches the operating mode of the drive unit 23 between the drive-disabled mode and the drive-allowed mode. Here, "suppressing" driving means not driving the drive unit 23. When the operating mode of the drive unit 23 is in the drive-disabled mode, even if the user operates the trigger switch 221 of the operation unit 22, the control unit 21 will not drive the drive unit 23.

[0035] The first communication unit 25 is a communication module that performs short-range wireless communication, for example, compliant with Wi-Fi®. The first communication unit 25 performs wireless communication with the receiver 4 using this type of communication method. The wireless communication method between the first communication unit 25 and the receiver 4 may be wireless communication using radio waves as a medium, for example, compliant with communication standards such as a 920MHz band low-power radio station (a radio station that does not require a license) or Bluetooth®. Alternatively, the first communication unit 25 may be a communication module that performs wired communication via a communication line. In this case, the first communication unit 25 performs wired communication with the receiver 4 via a wired network such as Ethernet.

[0036] The first communication unit 25 is housed, for example, inside the grip section 202, and the antenna 251 of the first communication unit 25 is housed inside the body section 201.

[0037] The power supply unit 26 is equipped with a rechargeable battery. The power supply unit 26 is housed in a battery pack 203. The battery pack 203 is constructed by housing the power supply unit 26 in a resin case. The rechargeable battery of the power supply unit 26 can be charged by removing the battery pack 203 from the grip 202 and connecting the removed battery pack 203 to a charger. The power supply unit 26 uses the power stored in the rechargeable battery to supply the necessary power to operate the electrical circuit, including the control unit 21, and the motor 233.

[0038] The storage unit 27 includes, for example, ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), and non-volatile memory. Non-volatile memory may include, for example, EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory) or flash memory. The storage unit 27 stores the control program executed by the control unit 21. The storage unit 27 also stores setting information received from the management system 3 and work results indicating the execution of work performed based on the setting information. Work results may be, for example, information indicating that work was performed, or information regarding the results of work execution. If the work is tightening a fastening member, it is preferable that the information regarding the results of work execution include, for example, information such as the measured value of the tightening torque measured by the sensor unit 24. The storage unit 27 also stores information such as identification information assigned to each power tool 2 and information such as the type of each power tool 2 (for example, information including the manufacturer and the part number determined by the manufacturer) (tool type information). Here, it is preferable that the identification information includes, for example, the IP address assigned to the power tool 2.

[0039] The display unit 28 has, for example, a two-digit seven-segment LED (Light Emitting Diode) exposed on the surface of the body 200. The display unit 28 also has, for example, a blue light-emitting diode and a red light-emitting diode exposed on the surface of the body 200.

[0040] (2.1.2) Receiver As shown in Figure 3, the receiver 4 includes a second communication unit 41, a third communication unit 42, a control unit 43, an operation unit 44, a display unit 45, and a storage unit 46.

[0041] The control unit 43 controls the operation of the second communication unit 41, the third communication unit 42, the display unit 45, etc. The control unit 43 is implemented in a computer system having one or more processors and memory, and the computer system functions as the control unit 43 by having one or more processors execute a program stored in memory. The program is pre-recorded in the memory of the control unit 43 in this case, but it may also be provided via a telecommunication line such as the Internet, or recorded on a non-temporary recording medium such as a memory card. The control unit 43 may be configured as, for example, an FPGA or an ASIC.

[0042] The second communication unit 41 is a communication module that performs short-range wireless communication using the same communication method (e.g., Wi-Fi) as the first communication unit 25 of the power tool 2. The second communication unit 41 communicates wirelessly with the first communication unit 25 of the power tool 2.

[0043] The third communication unit 42 is a communication module that performs wired communication via a communication line. The third communication unit 42 performs wired communication with the fourth communication unit 51 of the higher-level device 5 via a wired network 6, such as Ethernet.

[0044] The control unit 44 includes control switches and the like that accept user input.

[0045] The display unit 45 includes, for example, multiple light-emitting diodes, and displays the operating status of the receiver 4 by lighting, blinking, or turning off the multiple light-emitting diodes. The display unit 45 may also include a display device such as a liquid crystal display.

[0046] The storage unit 46 includes, for example, ROM, RAM, and non-volatile memory (e.g., EEPROM or flash memory). The storage unit 46 stores setting information to be set on the power tool 2, work results received from the power tool 2, etc., in association with the identification information of the power tool 2. In this way, the storage unit 46 can store setting information to be transmitted to the power tool 2 and work results received from the power tool 2 for each of the multiple power tools 2. The storage unit 46 also stores information such as identification information assigned to each receiver 4 and the type of each receiver 4 (for example, information including the manufacturer and the part number determined by that manufacturer). Here, the identification information includes, for example, the IP address assigned to the receiver 4.

[0047] (2.1.3) Higher-level device The higher-level device 5 is, for example, a server. The higher-level device 5 includes a fourth communication unit 51, a storage unit 52, and a control unit 53.

[0048] The fourth communication unit 51 is a communication module that performs wired communication via a communication line. The fourth communication unit 51 performs wired communication with the third communication unit 42 of the receiver 4 via a wired network 6, such as Ethernet.

[0049] The storage unit 52 includes, for example, ROM, RAM, and non-volatile memory (e.g., EEPROM or flash memory). For each of the multiple power tools 2, the storage unit 52 stores setting information for the work to be performed using the power tool 2, and a history of the work results of the work performed by the power tool 2, in association with the identification information of the power tool 2.

[0050] The control unit 53 controls the operation of the fourth communication unit 51, etc. The control unit 53 is implemented in a computer system having one or more processors and memory, and the computer system functions as the control unit 53 by having one or more processors execute a program stored in memory. The program is pre-recorded in the memory of the control unit 53 here, but it may also be provided via a telecommunication line such as the Internet, or recorded on a non-temporary recording medium such as a memory card. The control unit 53 may be configured as, for example, an FPGA or an ASIC.

[0051] The control unit 53 causes the fourth communication unit 51 to transmit setting information for the work to be performed by the power tool 2 to the receiver 4.

[0052] The control unit 53 also stores in the storage unit 52 the history of the work results of the work performed by the power tool 2, which the fourth communication unit 51 has received from the receiver 4.

[0053] (2.2) Operation Instructions Next, the operation of the power tool system 1 will be explained based on Figure 2 and other figures.

[0054] Figure 2 is a sequence diagram illustrating a series of operations performed by a user using the power tool 2, including the first operation, the second operation performed after the completion of the first operation, and the third operation performed after the completion of the second operation. Note that the sequence diagram shown in Figure 2 is merely one example of the operation of the power tool system 1 according to this embodiment, and the order of operations may be changed as appropriate, or operations may be added or omitted as appropriate.

[0055] The memory unit 52 of the higher-level device 5 stores first setting information, second setting information, and third setting information, which are information regarding the content of the first, second, and third operations performed using the power tool 2. Furthermore, the operation will be described assuming that wireless communication between the receiver 4 and the power tool 2 is possible in the initial state when starting a tightening operation using the power tool 2. In addition, in the initial state, the operating mode of the drive unit 23 is assumed to be a drive-disabled mode in which driving is suppressed.

[0056] The control unit 53 of the higher-level device 5 reads first setting information from the storage unit 52 in order to start the first operation using the power tool 2. Then, the control unit 53 has the fourth communication unit 51 transmit the first setting information to the third communication unit 42 of the receiver 4 (step ST1).

[0057] When the third communication unit 42 has finished receiving the first setting information, the control unit 43 of the receiver 4 causes the second communication unit 41 to transmit the first setting information to the first communication unit 25 of the power tool 2 (step ST2).

[0058] When the first communication unit 25 has finished receiving the first setting information, the control unit 21 of the power tool 2 causes the first communication unit 25 to send a response signal to the transmitting receiver 4 (step ST3), and stores the first setting information in the non-volatile memory of the storage unit 27.

[0059] Furthermore, when the first communication unit 25 has finished receiving the first setting information, the control unit 21 switches the operating mode of the drive unit 23 from the drive-disabled mode to the drive-enabled mode (step ST4). At this time, the control unit 21 may also indicate on the display unit 28 that the drive unit 23 has switched to the drive-enabled mode.

[0060] When the first setting information is stored in the memory unit 27 of the power tool 2, and the operating mode of the drive unit 23 is in the drive permission mode, the first operation using the power tool 2 becomes possible. Specifically, when the user operates the operation unit 22 of the power tool 2 (step ST5), the control unit 21 of the power tool 2 controls the drive unit 23 to perform the tightening operation of the fastening member with the tightening torque specified in the first setting information, and performs the first operation (step ST6). At this time, the sensor unit 24 measures the tightening torque of the fastening member. After the completion of the first operation, the control unit 21 generates the work result of the first operation (first work result) including the measured value of the tightening torque (step ST7). Here, the first work result generated by the control unit 21 is temporarily stored in the memory of the control unit 21.

[0061] After the completion of the first operation, the control unit 21 switches the operating mode of the drive unit 23 from the drive-enabled mode to the drive-disabled mode (step ST8).

[0062] Furthermore, after the completion of the first operation, the control unit 21 causes the first communication unit 25 to transmit a notification signal indicating the completion of the first operation to the second communication unit 41 of the receiver 4 (step ST9).

[0063] When the second communication unit 41 receives the completion notification signal for the first operation, the control unit 43 of the receiver 4 causes the third communication unit 42 to transmit the completion notification signal for the first operation to the fourth communication unit 51 of the host device 5 (step ST10).

[0064] When the fourth communication unit 51 receives a notification signal indicating the completion of the first operation, the control unit 53 of the higher-level device 5 reads the second setting information from the storage unit 52 in order to start the second operation using the power tool 2. Then, the control unit 53 has the fourth communication unit 51 transmit the second setting information to the third communication unit 42 of the receiver 4 (step ST11).

[0065] When the third communication unit 42 has finished receiving the second setting information, the control unit 43 of the receiver 4 starts transmitting the second setting information from the second communication unit 41 to the first communication unit 25 of the power tool 2 (step ST12).

[0066] Here, while receiving the second setting information, the operating mode of the drive unit 23 is the drive-disabled mode. Therefore, if the operation unit 22 is operated while receiving the second setting information, the control unit 21 suppresses the operation of the drive unit 23. After the reception of the second setting information is complete, the control unit 21 sets the operating mode of the drive unit 23 to the drive-enabled mode.

[0067] The following describes the operation after the reception of the second configuration information is complete.

[0068] When the first communication unit 25 has finished receiving the second setting information, the control unit 21 of the power tool 2 causes the first communication unit 25 to send a response signal to the transmitting receiver 4 (step ST13), and stores the second setting information in the non-volatile memory of the storage unit 27.

[0069] After the first communication unit 25 transmits a response signal to the receiver 4, the control unit 21 starts transmitting the first work result from the first communication unit 25 to the receiver 4 (step ST14).

[0070] Here, if the user operates the control unit 22 of the power tool 2 to start the second operation while the first operation result is being transmitted, the control unit 21 of the power tool 2 interrupts the transmission of the first operation result and operates the drive unit 23. The control unit 21 also resumes transmitting the first operation result to the receiver 4 after the second operation is completed and the drive unit 23 is not operating. Specifically, if the user operates the control unit 22 of the power tool 2 to start the second operation while the first operation result is being transmitted (step ST15), the control unit 21 interrupts the transmission of the first operation result (step ST16) and sends a request signal to the receiver 4 requesting that the data contained in the first operation result received by the receiver 4 be discarded (step ST17). Also, after interrupting the transmission of the first operation result, the control unit 21 stores all the data contained in the first operation result in the storage unit 27 (step ST18).

[0071] Once all the data included in the first work result is stored in the storage unit 27, the control unit 21 switches the operating mode of the drive unit 23 from the drive-disabled mode to the drive-enabled mode (step ST19).

[0072] When the operating mode of the drive unit 23 is switched to the drive permission mode, the control unit 21 controls the drive unit 23 to perform the tightening operation of the fastening member with the tightening torque specified in the second setting information, and performs the second operation (step ST20). At this time, the sensor unit 24 measures the tightening torque of the fastening member. After the completion of the second operation, the control unit 21 generates the operation result of the second operation (second operation result), which includes the measured value of the tightening torque (step ST21). Here, the second operation result generated by the control unit 21 is temporarily stored in the memory of the control unit 21.

[0073] After the completion of the second operation, the control unit 21 switches the operating mode of the drive unit 23 from the drive-enabled mode to the drive-disabled mode (step ST22).

[0074] Furthermore, after the completion of the second operation, the control unit 21 causes the first communication unit 25 to send a completion notification signal for the second operation to the second communication unit 41 of the receiver 4 (step ST23).

[0075] When the second communication unit 41 receives the completion notification signal for the second operation, the control unit 43 of the receiver 4 causes the third communication unit 42 to transmit the completion notification signal for the second operation to the fourth communication unit 51 of the host device 5 (step ST24).

[0076] When the fourth communication unit 51 receives a completion notification signal for the second operation, the control unit 53 of the higher-level device 5 reads the third setting information from the storage unit 52 in order to start the third operation using the power tool 2. Then, the control unit 53 has the fourth communication unit 51 transmit the third setting information to the third communication unit 42 of the receiver 4 (step ST25).

[0077] When the third communication unit 42 has finished receiving the third setting information, the control unit 43 of the receiver 4 starts transmitting the third setting information from the second communication unit 41 to the first communication unit 25 of the power tool 2 (step ST26).

[0078] When the first communication unit 25 has finished receiving the third setting information, the control unit 21 of the power tool 2 causes the first communication unit 25 to send a response signal to the transmitting receiver 4 (step ST27), and stores the third setting information in the non-volatile memory of the storage unit 27.

[0079] If the drive unit 23 is not operating after the first communication unit 25 has transmitted a response signal to the receiver 4, the control unit 21 reads all the data included in the first work result from the storage unit 27 (step ST28) and starts transmitting all the data included in the first work result from the first communication unit 25 to the receiver 4 (step ST29). At this time, the control unit 21 transmits the second work result to the receiver 4, following all the data included in the first work result.

[0080] When the second communication unit 41 has finished receiving the first and second work results, the control unit 43 causes the second communication unit 41 to send a response signal to the power tool 2 indicating that the work results have been received (step ST30). If the user operates the control unit 22 of the power tool 2 to start the third work while the first and second work results are being transmitted, the control unit 21 interrupts the transmission of the first and second work results and operates the drive unit 23.

[0081] As described above, in the power tool system 1 of this embodiment, the transmission of the first work result of the completed first work can be interrupted and the second work can be performed. This makes it possible to perform the second work without waiting for the transmission of the first work result to be completed, even when the amount of data of the first work result is large and it is expected that the transmission will take a long time, thereby improving the work efficiency of the work using the power tool 2.

[0082] (3) Variant The above embodiments are merely one of many embodiments of this disclosure. The above embodiments can be modified in various ways depending on the design, etc., as long as the objectives of this disclosure are achieved. Furthermore, functions similar to those of the power tool system 1 may be embodied in a control method, a (computer) program, or a non-temporary recording medium on which the program is stored.

[0083] The control method according to the above embodiment is a control method for the power tool 2 of a power tool system 1, which comprises a power tool 2 used for work on a work object and a management system 3 that communicates with the power tool 2. The work performed by the power tool 2 includes a first work and a second work performed after the completion of the first work. The control method for the power tool system 1 includes a first work execution step, a reception step, and a work result transmission step. In the first work execution step, the first work is executed. In the reception step, after the execution of the first work, setting information regarding the second work is received from the management system 3. In the work result transmission step, after receiving the setting information, the work result of the first work is transmitted to the management system 3. Furthermore, the (computer) program according to the above embodiment is a program that causes a computer system to execute the control method described above.

[0084] The following lists some modifications of the above embodiment. The modifications described below can be combined and applied as appropriate.

[0085] If the user operates the control unit 22 of the power tool 2 to start the second operation while the first operation result is being transmitted, the control unit 21 of the power tool 2 interrupts the transmission of the first operation result and operates the drive unit 23. After the interruption of the transmission of the first operation result, the control unit 21 may resume transmitting to the receiver 4 any data included in the first operation result that has not been transmitted to the receiver 4, after the second operation is completed and the drive unit 23 is not operating. In this case, if the user operates the control unit 22 of the power tool 2 to start the second operation while the first operation result is being transmitted, the control unit 21 interrupts the transmission of the first operation result and stores in the storage unit 27 the data included in the first operation result that has not been transmitted to the receiver 4. This saves the capacity of the storage unit 27. This also shortens the time required to transmit the first operation result after the completion of the second operation.

[0086] The first to third setting information may be stored in the memory unit 46 of the receiver 4 before the start of the first operation. In this case, each of the first to third setting information may be transmitted from the receiver 4 to the power tool 2 before the start of each of the first to third operations. In this case, the first to third setting information may be information input using the operation unit 44 of the receiver 4, or information received from the host device 5.

[0087] The implementing entity of the power tool system 1 or control method in this disclosure includes a computer system. The computer system mainly consists of a processor and memory as hardware. The processor executes a program recorded in the memory of the computer system to realize the function of the implementing entity of the power tool system 1 or control method in this disclosure. The program may be pre-recorded in the memory of the computer system, provided via a telecommunications line, or provided on a non-temporary recording medium such as a memory card, optical disk, or hard disk drive that can be read by the computer system. The processor of the computer system consists of one or more electronic circuits including semiconductor integrated circuits (ICs) or large-scale integrated circuits (LSIs). The integrated circuits such as ICs and LSIs referred to here are named differently depending on the degree of integration, and include integrated circuits called system LSIs, VLSIs (Very Large Scale Integration), or ULSIs (Ultra Large Scale Integration). Furthermore, FPGAs (Field-Programmable Gate Arrays) that are programmed after the manufacture of the LSI, or logic devices that allow for the reconfiguration of junction relationships or circuit compartments within the LSI, can also be used as processors. Multiple electronic circuits may be integrated onto a single chip or distributed across multiple chips. Multiple chips may be integrated onto a single device or distributed across multiple devices. The computer system referred to here includes a microcontroller having one or more processors and one or more memories. Therefore, the microcontroller also consists of one or more electronic circuits, including semiconductor integrated circuits or large-scale integrated circuits.

[0088] In the above embodiment, the functions of the management system 3 were distributed between the receiver 4 and the management device 5, but the functions of the receiver 4 and the management device 5 may be integrated into a single housing.

[0089] (4) Summary As described above, the power tool system (1) according to the first embodiment comprises a power tool (2) used for work on a work object, and a management system (3) that communicates with the power tool (2). The work includes a first work and a second work performed after the completion of the first work. After the power tool (2) completes the first work, the management system (3) transmits setting information regarding the second work to the power tool (2). After receiving the setting information, the power tool (2) transmits the work result of the first work to the management system (3).

[0090] According to this embodiment, the second operation can be started while the results of the first operation are being transmitted, thereby improving the work efficiency of the operation using the power tool (2).

[0091] In the power tool system (1) according to the second embodiment, in the first embodiment, the power tool (2) transmits a work completion signal to the management system (3) after completing the first work. The management system (3) transmits setting information to the power tool (2) after receiving the work completion signal.

[0092] According to this embodiment, the management system (3) can determine whether or not the first task has been completed.

[0093] In the third embodiment of the power tool system (1), in the first or second embodiment, the power tool (2) comprises a drive unit (23), an operating unit (22), and a control unit (21). The drive unit (23) drives the cutting tool (7) to be used for work. The operating unit (22) receives operations to operate the drive unit (23). The control unit (21) controls the operating state of the drive unit (23) based on input signals from the operating unit (22). If the operating unit (22) is operated while the operation result is being transmitted, the control unit (21) interrupts the transmission of the operation result and operates the drive unit (23).

[0094] According to this embodiment, the transmission of the work results of the first work can be interrupted and the second work can be started, thereby improving the work efficiency of the work using the power tool (2).

[0095] In the power tool system (1) according to the fourth embodiment, in the third embodiment, the control unit (21) resumes transmitting all data included in the work results to the management system (3) after the completion of the second work and when the drive unit (23) is not operating.

[0096] According to this embodiment, the possibility that some of the data included in the work results will not be transmitted to the management system (3) can be reduced.

[0097] In the fifth embodiment of the power tool system (1), in the fourth embodiment, the power tool (2) further comprises a storage unit (27). If the transmission of work results is interrupted, the control unit (21) sends request information to the management system (3) requesting the management system (3) to discard the data included in the work results received by the management system (3). If the transmission of work results is interrupted, the storage unit (27) stores all the data included in the work results.

[0098] According to this embodiment, the possibility that some of the data included in the work results transmitted to the management system (3) may overlap before and after the interruption can be reduced.

[0099] In the power tool system (1) according to the sixth embodiment, in any of the third to fifth embodiments, the control unit (21) resumes transmitting to the management system (3) any data included in the work result that has not yet been transmitted to the management system (3) after the completion of the second work and when the drive unit (23) is not operating.

[0100] According to this embodiment, the time required to transmit work results can be reduced after the transmission of work results is resumed.

[0101] In the power tool system (1) according to the seventh embodiment, in the sixth embodiment, the power tool (2) further comprises a storage unit (27). The storage unit (27) stores data included in the work results that has not been transmitted to the management system (3) if the transmission of the work results is interrupted.

[0102] According to this embodiment, the capacity of the storage unit (27) can be saved.

[0103] In the eighth embodiment of the power tool system (1), in any of the first to seventh embodiments, the power tool (2) comprises a drive unit (23), an operating unit (22), and a control unit (21). The drive unit (23) drives the cutting tool (7) to be used for work. The operating unit (22) receives operations to operate the drive unit (23). The control unit (21) controls the operating state of the drive unit (23) based on input signals from the operating unit (22). The control unit (21) suppresses the operation of the drive unit (23) if the operating unit (22) is operated, at least while setting information is being received.

[0104] This embodiment reduces the possibility of operations being performed while configuration information is being received.

[0105] In the power tool system (1) according to the ninth embodiment, in the eighth embodiment, the operating modes of the drive unit (23) include a drive-disabled mode in which driving is suppressed and a drive-allowed mode in which driving is permitted. The control unit (21) sets the operating mode of the drive unit (23) to the drive-disabled mode after the completion of the first operation, and sets the operating mode of the drive unit (23) to the drive-allowed mode after the completion of receiving the setting information.

[0106] This embodiment reduces the possibility of operations being performed while configuration information is being received.

[0107] The control method according to the tenth embodiment is a control method for a power tool (2) in a power tool system (1) comprising a power tool (2) used for work on a work object and a management system (3) that communicates with the power tool (2). The work includes a first work and a second work performed after the completion of the first work. The control method includes a first work execution step, a reception step, and a work result transmission step. In the first work execution step, the first work is executed. In the reception step, after the execution of the first work, setting information regarding the second work is received from the management system (3). In the work result transmission step, after receiving the setting information, the work result of the first work is transmitted to the management system (3).

[0108] According to this embodiment, the second operation can be started while the results of the first operation are being transmitted, thereby improving the work efficiency of the operation using the power tool (2).

[0109] The program according to the eleventh embodiment causes the computer system to execute the control method according to the tenth embodiment.

[0110] According to this embodiment, the second operation can be started while the results of the first operation are being transmitted, thereby improving the work efficiency of the operation using the power tool (2).

[0111] The configurations relating to the second to ninth aspects are not essential to the power tool system (1) and can be omitted as appropriate. [Explanation of symbols]

[0112] 1. Power Tool System 2 Power tools 3 Management System 7 Tip tool 21 Control Unit 22 Control section 23 Drive unit 27 Memory section

Claims

1. Power tools used for work on the work object, The system comprises a management system that communicates with the aforementioned power tool, The aforementioned work includes a first work and a second work performed after the completion of the first work. The management system transmits setting information related to the second operation to the power tool after the power tool has completed the first operation. The power tool transmits the results of the first operation to the management system after receiving the setting information. Power tool system.

2. After completing the first operation, the power tool transmits an operation completion signal to the management system. The management system transmits the setting information to the power tool after receiving the work completion signal. The power tool system according to claim 1.

3. The aforementioned power tool is A drive unit that drives the tip tool that performs the aforementioned work, An operating unit that receives operations to operate the aforementioned drive unit, The drive unit comprises a control unit that controls the operating state of the drive unit based on an input signal from the operation unit, If the operation unit is operated while the operation result is being transmitted, the control unit will interrupt the transmission of the operation result and operate the drive unit. The power tool system according to claim 1.

4. The control unit resumes transmitting all data included in the work results to the management system after the completion of the second work and when the drive unit is not operating. The power tool system according to claim 3.

5. The aforementioned power tool further comprises a memory unit, If the control unit interrupts the transmission of the work results, it sends request information to the management system requesting the management system to discard the data included in the work results received by the management system. The storage unit stores all the data included in the work result if the transmission of the work result is interrupted. The power tool system according to claim 4.

6. The control unit, after the completion of the second operation and when the drive unit is not operating, resumes transmitting to the management system any data included in the operation result that has not yet been transmitted to the management system. The power tool system according to claim 3.

7. The aforementioned power tool further comprises a memory unit, If the transmission of the work results is interrupted, the storage unit stores the data included in the work results that has not been transmitted to the management system. The power tool system according to claim 6.

8. The aforementioned power tool is A drive unit that drives the tip tool that performs the aforementioned work, An operating unit that receives operations to operate the aforementioned drive unit, The drive unit comprises a control unit that controls the operating state of the drive unit based on an input signal from the operation unit, The control unit suppresses the operation of the drive unit if the operation unit is operated at least while the setting information is being received. The power tool system according to claim 1.

9. The operating modes of the drive unit include a drive disallowance mode in which driving is suppressed and a drive permission mode in which driving is permitted. The control unit sets the operating mode of the drive unit to the drive-off mode after the completion of the first operation, and sets the operating mode of the drive unit to the drive-on mode after the completion of receiving the setting information. The power tool system according to claim 8.

10. A control method for a power tool system comprising a power tool used for work on a work object and a management system that communicates with the power tool, The aforementioned work includes a first work and a second work performed after the completion of the first work. A first task execution step in which the first task described above is performed, After the execution of the first operation, a receiving step is performed in which setting information related to the second operation is received from the management system, The process includes a work result transmission step of transmitting the work result of the first operation to the management system after receiving the setting information, Control method.

11. The computer system is instructed to execute the receiving step and the work result transmission step included in the control method described in claim 10. program.

Images