Storage system for cordless power tool batteries

Abstract

A storage system is provided for cordless power tool batteries. The storage system includes a handle frame unit and storage containers. The handle frame unit includes a body with major side surfaces that oppose one another, and that are connected by minor surfaces including a top surface from which a handle extends. The handle frame unit includes connectors located on respective ones of the major side surfaces, and the storage containers including matching connectors with which the connectors of the handle frame unit are configured to fit to connect the storage containers to the major side surfaces and thereby the handle frame unit. One or more of the storage containers are sized and contoured to receive one or more cordless power tool batteries. A storage compartment sized to fit in a storage container is also provided.

Description

STORAGE SYSTEM FOR CORDLESS POWER TOOL BATTERIESTECHNOLOGICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to storage systems and, in particular, to storage systems for cordless power tool batteries.BACKGROUND

[0002] Battery powered tools for forestry, landscaping and garden usage has been on the rise for years now. These have many advantages over petrol ones, but the major aspects where battery tools are still lacking when compared to size equivalent petrol ones are its output power and energy capacity (battery stored energy being less dense than petrol energy). For many fields of use however, the output power obtainable with reasonably sized batteries is very much sufficient. Still, the capacity of batteries are in many cases limiting and users need to bring multiple batteries with them to manage a job.

[0003] The go-to solution on many markets for when working with a petrol driven (traditional) chainsaw is to bring a “combination can,” a unit that contains separate canisters for both petrol and chain oil (which the chain needs to be lubricated during usage) and sometimes also tools.

[0004] For battery usage, there has not been any good equivalents to the “combination can.” Some users bring their batteries in a simple bag or backpack and has small bottles for chain oil. Others carry some batteries and leave the rest in their vehicle to exchange later during the day. Given that lithium-ion batteries are a bit sensitive to impacts, carrying them unprotected is not suitable.

[0005] A number of solutions have been developed for the transport of multiple batteries, but these solutions do not match the functionality of the “combination can.” Some solutions include the use of “standard” tool boxes adapted for batteries, but these solutions, as well as others, though more versatile, are more suited for bringing batteries in the vehicle rather than usage as a tool during the workday. It would therefore be desirable to have a system that takes into account at least some of the issues discussed above, as well as other possible issues.BRIEF SUMMARY

[0006] Example implementations of the present disclosure are directed to storage systems and, in particular, to storage systems for cordless power tool batteries. Example implementations of the present disclosure provide a modular storage system for cordless power tool batteries and various tools that may be useful in projects such as forestry, landscaping and gardening projects in which a worker uses a cordless power tool. The storage system generally includes a handle frame unit with an interface on its sides to connect different holders to carry cordless power tool batteries and various tools. The handle frame unit itself may also be equipped with openings for carrying various tools that may be used in various projects.

[0007] The present disclosure thus includes, without limitation, the following example implementations .

[0008] Some example implementations provide a storage system for cordless power tool batteries, the storage system comprising: a handle frame unit including a body with major side surfaces that oppose one another, and that are connected by minor surfaces including a top surface from which a handle extends, the handle frame unit including connectors located on respective ones of the major side surfaces; and storage containers including matching connectors with which the connectors of the handle frame unit are configured to fit to connect the storage containers to the major side surfaces and thereby the handle frame unit, one or more of the storage containers sized and contoured to receive one or more cordless power tool batteries.

[0009] Some example implementations provide a handle frame unit of a storage system for cordless power tool batteries, the handle frame unit comprising: a handle; a body including major side surfaces that oppose one another, and that are connected by minor surfaces including a top surface from which the handle extends; and connectors located on respective ones of the major side surfaces, the connectors configured to fit with matching connectors of storage containers to connect the storage containers to the major side surfaces and thereby the body, one or more of the storage containers sized and contoured to receive one or more cordless power tool batteries.

[0010] Some example implementations provide a storage container of a storage system for cordless power tool batteries, the storage container comprising: a body defining a storage space that is sized and contoured to receive a cordless power tool battery; and a connector located on the body, the connector configured to connect the storage container to a handle frame unit that includes major side surfaces that oppose one another, and that are connectedby minor surfaces including a top surface from which a handle extends, the connector configured to fit with a matching connector located on a major side surface of the major side surfaces of the handle frame unit to connect the storage container to the major side surface and thereby the handle frame unit.

[0011] Some example implementations provide a storage compartment of a storage system for cordless power tool batteries, the storage compartment comprising: a body sized to fit in a storage space of a storage container of the storage system, the body defining a top opening to an interior space, the body including a bottom surface that is opposite the top opening, the bottom surface defining a plurality of openings from the interior space to the storage space when the body is fit in the storage space, the openings sized to fit shafts of shafted hand tools; and connectors located on the body, the connectors configured to fit with matching connectors of the storage container when the body is fit in the storage container.

[0012] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present disclosure will be apparent from a reading of the following detailed description together with the accompanying figures, which are briefly described below. The present disclosure includes any combination of two, three, four or more features or elements set forth in this disclosure, regardless of whether such features or elements are expressly combined or otherwise recited in a specific example implementation described herein. This disclosure is intended to be read holistically such that any separable features or elements of the disclosure, in any of its aspects and example implementations, should be viewed as combinable unless the context of the disclosure clearly dictates otherwise.

[0013] It will therefore be appreciated that this Brief Summary is provided merely for purposes of summarizing some example implementations so as to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosure. Accordingly, it will be appreciated that the above described example implementations are merely examples and should not be construed to narrow the scope or spirit of the disclosure in any way. Other example implementations, aspects and advantages will become apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying figures which illustrate, by way of example, the principles of some described example implementations.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURE(S)

[0014] Having thus described example implementations of the disclosure in general terms, reference will now be made to the accompanying figures, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and wherein:

[0015] FIG. 1A is a front, top and right side perspective view of a storage system for cordless power tool batteries, according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0016] FIG. IB is a front, bottom and left side perspective view of the storage system, according to some example implementations;

[0017] FIGS. 1C and ID are respectively top and bottom elevation views of the storage system, according to some example implementations;

[0018] FIGS. IE and IF are respectively right side and left side elevation views of the storage system, according to some example implementations;

[0019] FIGS. 1G and 1H are respectively front and rear plan views of the storage system, according to some example implementations;

[0020] FIG. II is a perspective, cross-section of the storage system, according to some example implementations;

[0021] FIG. 2A is a perspective view of the storage system in a configuration of use, according to some example implementations;

[0022] FIG. 2B is a perspective, cross-section of the storage system including a cordless power tool battery, according to some example implementations;

[0023] FIG. 3A is a front, top and right side perspective view of a handle frame unit of the storage system, according to some example implementations;

[0024] FIG. 3B is a front, bottom and left side perspective view of the handle frame unit, according to some example implementations;

[0025] FIGS. 3C and 3D are respectively top and bottom elevation views of the handle frame unit, according to some example implementations;

[0026] FIGS. 3E and 3F are respectively a right side elevation view, and a front plan view, of the handle frame unit, according to some example implementations;

[0027] FIGS. 3G and 3H are respectively a rear plan view, and a left side elevation view, of the handle frame unit, according to some example implementations;

[0028] FIG. 31 is the front, top and right side perspective view of the handle frame unit including covers that are open, with an electronic asset tracker held in one of the covers, according to some example implementations;

[0029] FIG. 4A is a front, top and left side perspective view of a storage container of the storage system, according to some example implementations;

[0030] FIG. 4B is a rear and left side perspective view of the storage container, according to some example implementations;

[0031] FIG. 4C is a perspective, cross-section of the storage container, according to some example implementations;

[0032] FIGS. 5 A and 5B are a front and left side perspective view of a storage compartment for the storage system, including a lid that is respectively closed and open, according to some example implementations;

[0033] FIG. 5C is a top, front and left side perspective view of the storage compartment in which the lid is open, according to some example implementations;

[0034] FIGS. 5D and 5E are respectively left side and top elevation views of the storage compartment in which the lid is closed, according to some example implementations;

[0035] FIG. 5F is a perspective, cross-section of a rack of the storage compartment, according to some example implementations; and

[0036] FIG. 6 is a fluid container for the storage system, according to some example implementations .DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0037] Some implementations of the present disclosure will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying figures, in which some, but not all implementations of the disclosure are shown. Indeed, various implementations of the disclosure may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the implementations set forth herein; rather, these example implementations are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the disclosure to those skilled in the art. Like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout.

[0038] Unless specified otherwise or clear from context, references to first, second or the like should not be construed to imply a particular order. A feature described as being above another feature (unless specified otherwise or clear from context) may instead be below, and vice versa; and similarly, features described as being to the left of another feature else may instead be to the right, and vice versa. Also, while reference may be made herein to quantitative measures, values, geometric relationships or the like, unless otherwise stated, anyone or more if not all of these may be absolute or approximate to account for acceptable variations that may occur, such as those due to engineering tolerances or the like.

[0039] As used herein, unless specified otherwise or clear from context, the “or” of a set of operands is the “inclusive or” and thereby true if and only if one or more of the operands is true, as opposed to the “exclusive or” which is false when all of the operands are true. Thus, for example, “[A] or [B]” is true if [A] is true, or if [B] is true, or if both [A] and [B] are true. Further, the articles “a” and “an” mean “one or more,” unless specified otherwise or clear from context to be directed to a singular form. Furthermore, it should be understood that unless otherwise specified, the terms “data,” “content,” “digital content,” “information,” and similar terms may be at times used interchangeably.

[0040] Example implementations of the present disclosure provide a modular storage system for cordless power tool batteries and various tools that may be useful in projects such as forestry, landscaping and gardening projects in which a worker uses a cordless power tool. The storage system may be carried onsite as a toolbox used during a workday, as well as for storing cordless power tool batteries and tools while not in use. The storage system offers a highly portable unit for cordless power tool batteries and other accessories needed when working with the mentioned areas and can be adapted for specific work tasks. At the same time, the cordless power tool batteries may be protected from impacts in respective storage containers of the storage system.

[0041] FIGS. 1A-1I are various views of a storage system 100 for cordless power tool batteries, and FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate the storage system in a configuration of use, according to some example implementations of the present disclosure. As shown, the storage system includes a handle frame unit 102 to which storage containers 104 are connected. The handle frame unit is shown more specifically in FIGS. 3A-3I, and one of the containers is shown more specifically in FIGS. 4A-4C, according to some example implementations. As shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B in particular, according to example implementations of the present disclosure, one or more of the storage containers are sized and contoured to receive one or more cordless power tool batteries 202. In particular, one or more of the storage containers may include a body 106 defining a storage space 108, and the storage space may be sized and contoured to receive a cordless power tool battery. The storage space and thereby the storage container may be sized and contoured to receive any of a number of different cordless power tool batteries, such as cordless power tool batteries of cordless power tools used in forestry, landscaping and gardening. Examples of these cordless powertools include string trimmers, brushcutters, hedge trimmers, leaf blowers, chainsaws, pole pruners and saws, power cutters or the like.

[0042] The handle frame unit 102 includes a body 110 with major side surfaces 112 that oppose one another, and that are connected by minor surfaces 114. The minor surfaces include a top surface 116 from which a handle 118 extends; and in some examples, the handle and the body are integrally formed in a unitary construction. The top surface may also include a raised section 120 with an opening 122 that extends into an interior space 124 of the body. As shown in FIG. 2A, the opening may be sized to fit a shaft of a shafted hand tool 204, such as a combination wrench.

[0043] In some examples, the handle 118 includes a top section 126 connected to the body 110 of the handle frame unit 102 by opposing side sections 128, and the handle frame unit includes at least one cover 130 attached to at least one of the opposing side sections. The cover (or covers) may act to cover an interior space of the handle, making it more stable, dirt repellant and appear more complete aesthetically. In some examples, the at least one cover may be secured to the handle frame unit by screws, although other means of securing the at least one cover are possible.

[0044] In some examples, the at least one cover 130 includes an opening 132 that extends through the at least one cover into an interior space of the handle frame unit 102. As shown in FIG. 2A, this opening may be sized to fit a shaft of a shafted hand tool 206, such as files, screwdrivers or other tools or gear with a shaft geometry. Additionally or alternatively, the at least one cover may include an interior surface 304 with a holder 306 for an electronic asset tracker 308, as shown in FIG. 31. Examples of suitable electronic asset trackers include the AirTag™ from Apple Inc., and various TILE® wireless tracking devices from Tile Inc.

[0045] The minor surfaces 112 of the handle frame unit 102 include front and rear surfaces 134, 136 that oppose one another. In some examples, the handle frame unit includes fasteners 138 connected to the front and rear surfaces. The fasteners may be configured to provide points of attachment for a strap or other objects (e.g., keychains, bottles, objects equipped with carabiners) to the handle frame unit. As shown, the fasteners in one suitable example are D-ring fasteners.

[0046] As also shown, in some examples, the handle frame unit 102 includes one or more lugs 140 located on the respective ones of the major side surfaces 112. The one or more lugs may be configured to engage respective ones of the one or more cordless power tool batteries 202 when received in the one or more storage containers 104. In particular, as shown in FIG. 2B, a cordless power tool battery (illustrated in cross-section without an interior battery pack)may include a cantilever depression 208 configured to deflect as the cordless power tool battery is received in one of the one or more storage containers 104. The lug may be configured to catch in the cantilever depression to secure the cordless power tool battery in the storage container.

[0047] According to example implementations of the present disclosure, the storage containers 104 may be connected to the major side surfaces 112 and thereby the handle frame unit 102. The storage containers may be connected in any of a number of different manners, but in some examples, the storage containers are releasably connected to the major side surfaces.

[0048] As shown more specifically in FIGS. 3A-3I, in some examples, the handle frame unit 102 includes connectors 302 located on respective ones of the major side surfaces 112. The handle frame unit may include one connector, at least one connector, or a plurality of connectors, on each of the major side surfaces. Similarly, as shown more specifically in FIGS. 4A-4C, the storage containers 104 include matching connectors 402 with which the connectors of the handle frame unit are configured to fit to connect the storage containers to the major side surfaces and thereby the handle frame unit. In particular, the storage container includes a front surface 404 and a rear surface 406 that oppose one another, and that are connected by side surfaces 408; and the matching connector is located on the rear surface. In some examples (from the perspective of the storage container), the matching connectors 402 of the storage containers may be referred to as connectors, and the connectors 302 of the handle frame unit may be referred to as matching connectors.

[0049] As shown, the storage containers 104 each include a matching connector 402 with which a connector 302 of the handle frame unit 102 is configured to fit to connect the storage container to the handle frame unit. The handle frame unit therefore includes four connectors to fit with four matching connectors of four storage containers. In some examples, however, a storage container may include more than one matching connector to fit with more than one connector of the handle frame unit. This may be useful, for example, for larger storage containers that are wider than those shown. In some of these examples, then, a storage container may include two matching connectors to connect with two connectors on a major side surface 112 of the handle frame unit.

[0050] In some examples, the connectors 302 may be snap-fit connectors, and the matching connectors 402 may be matching snap-fit connectors. In this regard, the snap-fit connectors may include female components, and the matching snap-fit connectors may include male components that fit into the female components. As shown, in some examples,the connectors include a slot 310, and the matching connectors 402 include a matching cantilever lug 410 configured to fit through the slot, deflect as the matching cantilever lug is fit through the slot, and catch on an underside 312 of the slot, as shown in FIG. II and FIG. 2B.

[0051] In some more particular examples, respective ones of the major side surfaces 112 define a top edge 314 at which the major side surface meets the top surface 116. The major side surface also defines a bottom edge 316, and a pair of side edges 318 that extend between the top edge and the bottom edge. In some of these examples, the connectors 302 include at least one connector located on the major side surface. The at least one connector includes at least one upper slot 320, and the slot 310 (a lower slot). The at least one upper slot is located proximate the top edge, and sized to fit at least one matching hook 412 of one of the storage containers. The (lower) slot is located proximate the bottom edge, and sized to fit the matching cantilever lug 410 of the storage container 104. And as described above, the matching cantilever lug is configured to fit through the (lower) slot, deflect as the matching cantilever lug is fit through the lower slot, and catch on an underside of the (lower) slot.

[0052] As shown in FIG. 2A, in some examples, the storage system 100 further includes a storage compartment 210 sized to fit in the storage space 108 of a storage container 104. In various examples, the storage compartment may include a weather protected interior space with an open and closeable lid. The storage compartment may be used to carry longer tools, such as larger files and wrenches, at a rear position, as well as smaller tools and articles that can fit in the interior space (under the lid). The storage compartment can be inserted into a storage container, and removed when the storage container is needed for an extra cordless power tool battery 202. The storage compartment of some example implementations is shown more specifically in FIGS. 5A-5F.

[0053] As shown, in some examples, the storage compartment 210 includes respective connectors 212 configured to fit with respective matching connectors 142 of the storage container 104 when the storage compartment is fit in the storage container. Similar to above, in some examples (from the perspective of the storage container), the respective matching connectors 142 of the storage container may be referred to as connectors, and the respective connectors 212 of the storage compartment may be referred to as matching connectors.

[0054] Also similar to above, in some examples, the (respective) connectors 212 of the storage compartment 210 may include snap-fit connectors configured to fit with the (respective) matching connectors 142 that include (respective) matching snap-fit connectors. The snap-fit connectors of the storage compartment may include male components, and thematching snap-fit connectors of the storage container 104 may include female components into which the male components fit. As shown, in some examples, the male components of the snap-fit connectors include cantilever lugs 502. The female components of the matching snap-fit connectors include openings 144 defined in the side surfaces 408 of the storage container, and sized to fit the cantilever lugs. In this regard, the cantilever lugs may be configured to deflect as the storage compartment is fit in the storage container (in the storage space 108), and catch in the openings.

[0055] As shown more specifically in FIGS. 5A-5F, in some examples, the storage compartment 210 includes a body 504 sized to fit in the storage space 108 of the storage container 104. The body of the storage compartment defines a top opening 506 to an interior space 508. The body also includes a bottom surface 510 that is opposite the top opening, and the bottom surface defines a plurality of openings 512 from the interior space to the storage space of the storage container when the storage compartment is fit in the storage space. In a manner similar to that described above, these openings may be sized to fit shafts of shafted hand tools, such as screwdrivers, file gauges, or the like. In some more particular examples, the plurality of openings are defined by channels 514 that extend downward from the bottom surface to respective openings to the storage space of the storage container. Other hand tools or other may also be stored in the interior space, such as spare parts for a cordless power tool (e.g., chainsaw chain), medical kit or the like.

[0056] In some examples, the storage compartment 210 includes a lid 214 configured to cover the top opening 506, and provide access to the interior space 508 including the plurality of openings 512 defined in the bottom surface 510. As shown, the lid may be pivotably connected to the body 504 of the storage compartment. The lid may be clasped to the body in a number of different manners, such as by a snap fit connection in which the lid and body have interlocking features that snap together when the lid is closed.

[0057] As also shown, in some examples, the storage compartment 210 further includes a rack 216 that extends outward from a rear surface 516 of the body 504, uncovered by the lid 214. In some of these examples, the rack defines a second plurality of openings 518 to the storage space 108 of the storage container 104 when the body 504 (and thereby the storage compartment) is fit in the storage space. The second plurality of openings are sized to fit a plurality of hand tools 218, such as files, wrenches or the like. Similar to the plurality of openings 512, one or more of the second plurality of openings may be defined by channels 520 that extend downward from a top surface 522 of the rack to respective openings to thestorage space of the storage container. And the channels may be sized to fit the shafts of one or more of the plurality of hand tools that are shafted hand tools.

[0058] Briefly returning to FIG. 2A, in some examples, the storage system 100 includes a fluid container 220 sized to fit in the storage space 108 of a storage container 104. The fluid container is shown more specifically in FIG. 6, according to some example implementations. The fluid container may be used to carry fluids such as oil used for lubrication of cordless power tools such as chainsaws. Other examples of suitable fluid containers include spray bottles, spray cans or the like.

[0059] As shown, the fluid container 220 includes a body 222 that defines an interior space to hold a fluid, and that is sized to fit in the storage space 108 of the storage container 104. The body defines an opening that provides access to the interior space, and includes a cap assembly 224 that covers the opening. The cap assembly includes a threaded ring 226 to secure the cap assembly to the body, and a spout 228 through which fluid may be dispensed from the interior space of the fluid container. And in some examples, the cap assembly includes a top cap 230 at an uppermost portion of the spout, which covers an opening of the spout.

[0060] In some examples, the body 222 of the fluid container 220 may also include contours 602 that conform to the shape of the hand to enhance grip and prevent slippage of the fluid container when held. Additionally or alternatively, in some examples, the fluid container includes a handle 232 connected to the body; and in some examples, the handle and the body are integrally formed in a unitary construction.

[0061] As primarily described above, the storage containers 104 of the storage system 100 may be used to carry cordless power tool batteries 202, a storage compartment 210 for various tools or other accessories, and a fluid container 220. It will be understood, however, that the storage containers may be used to carry any of a number of different objects that are sized to fit in the storage space 108 of a storage container 104. Similarly, the storage compartment may be used to carry any of a number of different objects that are sized to fit in the interior space 508 of the storage compartment.

[0062] As explained above and reiterated below, the present disclosure includes, without limitation, the following example implementations.

[0063] Clause 1. A storage system for cordless power tool batteries, the storage system comprising: a handle frame unit including a body with major side surfaces that oppose one another, and that are connected by minor surfaces including a top surface from which a handle extends, the handle frame unit including connectors located on respective ones of themajor side surfaces; and storage containers including matching connectors with which the connectors of the handle frame unit are configured to fit to connect the storage containers to the major side surfaces and thereby the handle frame unit, one or more of the storage containers sized and contoured to receive one or more cordless power tool batteries.

[0064] Clause 2. The storage system of clause 1, wherein the handle includes a top section connected to the body by opposing side sections, and the handle frame unit includes at least one cover attached to at least one of the opposing side sections, and wherein the at least one cover includes an opening that extends through the at least one cover into an interior space of the handle frame unit, the opening sized to fit a shaft of a shafted hand tool.

[0065] Clause 3. The storage system of clause 1 or clause 2, wherein the handle includes a top section connected to the body by opposing side sections, and the handle frame unit includes at least one cover attached to at least one of the opposing side sections, and wherein the at least one cover includes an interior surface with a holder for an electronic asset tracker.

[0066] Clause 4. The storage system of any of clauses 1 to 3, wherein the minor surfaces include front and rear surfaces that oppose one another, and the handle frame unit includes fasteners connected to the front and rear surfaces, the fasteners configured to provide points of attachment for a strap or other objects to the handle frame unit.

[0067] Clause 5. The storage system of any of clauses 1 to 4, wherein the connectors include snap-fit connectors configured to fit with the matching connectors that include matching snap-fit connectors.

[0068] Clause 6. The storage system of any of clauses 1 to 5, wherein a major side surface of the major side surfaces defines a top edge at which the major side surface meets the top surface, a bottom edge, and a pair of side edges that extend between the top edge and the bottom edge, and wherein the connectors include at least one connector located on the major side surface, and the at least one connector includes: at least one upper slot located proximate the top edge, the at least one upper slot sized to fit at least one matching hook of one of the storage containers; and a lower slot located proximate the bottom edge, the lower slot sized to fit a matching cantilever lug of the one of the storage containers, the matching cantilever lug configured to fit through the lower slot, deflect as the matching cantilever lug is fit through the lower slot, and catch on an underside of the lower slot.

[0069] Clause 7. The storage system of any of clauses 1 to 6, wherein the handle frame unit includes one or more lugs located on the respective ones of the major side surfaces, the one or more lugs configured to engage respective ones of the one or more cordless power tool batteries when received in the one or more storage containers.

[0070] Clause 8. The storage system of any of clauses 1 to 7, wherein a storage container of the storage containers defines a storage space, the storage container including a front surface and a rear surface that oppose one another, and that are connected by side surfaces, and wherein a matching connector of the storage container is located on the rear surface, and the side surfaces define openings sized to fit matching cantilever lugs of a storage compartment that is sized to fit in the storage space of the storage container, the cantilever lugs configured to deflect as the storage compartment is fit in the storage space, and catch in the openings.

[0071] Clause 9. The storage system of any of clauses 1 to 8, wherein a storage container of the storage containers defines a storage space, and the storage system further comprises a storage compartment sized to fit in the storage space of a storage container, and wherein the storage compartment defines a top opening to an interior space, the storage compartment including a bottom surface that is opposite the top opening, the bottom surface defining a plurality of openings from the interior space to the storage space when the storage compartment is fit in the storage space, the openings sized to fit shafts of shafted hand tools.

[0072] Clause 10. The storage system of clause 9, wherein the storage compartment further comprises a lid configured to cover the top opening, and provide access to the interior space including the plurality of openings defined in the bottom surface.

[0073] Clause 11. The storage system of clause 10, wherein the storage compartment further comprises a rack that extends outward from a rear surface of the body, uncovered by the lid, the rack defining a second plurality of openings to the storage space of the storage container when the body is fit in the storage space, the second plurality of openings sized to fit a plurality of hand tools.

[0074] Clause 12. The storage system of any of clauses 9 to 11, wherein the storage compartment further includes respective connectors configured to fit with respective matching connectors of the storage container when the storage compartment is fit in the storage container.

[0075] Clause 13. A handle frame unit of a storage system for cordless power tool batteries, the handle frame unit comprising: a handle; a body including major side surfaces that oppose one another, and that are connected by minor surfaces including a top surface from which the handle extends; and connectors located on respective ones of the major side surfaces, the connectors configured to fit with matching connectors of storage containers to connect the storage containers to the major side surfaces and thereby the body, one or more ofthe storage containers sized and contoured to receive one or more cordless power tool batteries.

[0076] Clause 14. The handle frame unit of clause 13, wherein the handle and the body are integrally formed in a unitary construction.

[0077] Clause 15. The handle frame unit of clause 13 or clause 14, wherein the handle includes a top section connected to the body by opposing side sections, and the handle frame unit includes at least one cover attached to at least one of the opposing side sections.

[0078] Clause 16. The handle frame unit of clause 15, wherein the at least one cover includes an opening that extends through the at least one cover into an interior space of the body, the opening sized to fit a shaft of a shafted hand tool.

[0079] Clause 17. The handle frame unit of clause 15 or clause 16, wherein the at least one cover includes an interior surface with a holder for an electronic asset tracker.

[0080] Clause 18. The handle frame unit of any of clauses 13 to 17, wherein the top surface includes a raised section with an opening that extends into an interior space of the body, the opening sized to fit a shaft of a shafted hand tool.

[0081] Clause 19. The handle frame unit of any of clauses 13 to 18, wherein the minor surfaces include front and rear surfaces that oppose one another, and the handle frame unit includes fasteners connected to the front and rear surfaces, the fasteners configured to provide points of attachment for a strap or other objects to the handle frame unit.

[0082] Clause 20. The handle frame unit of any of clauses 13 to 19, wherein the connectors include at least one connector on each of the major side surfaces.

[0083] Clause 21. The handle frame unit of any of clauses 13 to 20, wherein the connectors include a plurality of connectors on each of the major side surfaces.

[0084] Clause 22. The handle frame unit of any of clauses 13 to 21, wherein the connectors include snap-fit connectors configured to fit with the matching connectors that include matching snap-fit connectors of the storage containers.

[0085] Clause 23. The handle frame unit of clause 22, wherein the snap-fit connectors include female components, and the matching snap-fit connectors include male components that fit into the female components.

[0086] Clause 24. The handle frame unit of clause 23, wherein the female components of the snap-fit connectors include a slot, and the male components of the matching snap-fit connectors include a matching cantilever lug configured to fit through the slot, deflect as the matching cantilever lug is fit through the slot, and catch on an underside of the slot.

[0087] Clause 25. The handle frame unit of any of clauses 13 to 24, wherein a major side surface of the major side surfaces defines a top edge at which the major side surface meets the top surface, a bottom edge, and a pair of side edges that extend between the top edge and the bottom edge, and wherein the connectors include at least one connector located on the major side surface, and the at least one connector includes: at least one upper slot located proximate the top edge, the at least one upper slot sized to fit at least one matching hook of one of the storage containers; and a lower slot located proximate the bottom edge, the lower slot sized to fit a matching cantilever lug of the one of the storage containers, the matching cantilever lug configured to fit through the lower slot, deflect as the matching cantilever lug is fit through the lower slot, and catch on an underside of the lower slot.

[0088] Clause 26. The handle frame unit of any of clauses 13 to 25, wherein the handle frame unit includes one or more lugs located on the respective ones of the major side surfaces, the one or more lugs configured to engage respective ones of the one or more cordless power tool batteries when received in the one or more storage containers.

[0089] Clause 27. The handle frame unit of clause 26, wherein a cordless power tool battery includes a cantilever depression configured to deflect as the cordless power tool battery is received in one of the one or more storage containers, and the lug is configured to catch in the cantilever depression to secure the cordless power tool battery in the one of the one or more storage containers.

[0090] Clause 28. A storage container of a storage system for cordless power tool batteries, the storage container comprising: a body defining a storage space that is sized and contoured to receive a cordless power tool battery; and a connector located on the body, the connector configured to connect the storage container to a handle frame unit that includes major side surfaces that oppose one another, and that are connected by minor surfaces including a top surface from which a handle extends, the connector configured to fit with a matching connector located on a major side surface of the major side surfaces of the handle frame unit to connect the storage container to the major side surface and thereby the handle frame unit.

[0091] Clause 29. The storage container of clause 28, wherein the connector includes a snap-fit connector configured to fit with a matching snap-fit connector of the handle frame unit.

[0092] Clause 30. The storage container of clause 29, wherein the snap-fit connector includes a male component, and the matching snap-fit connector includes a female component into which the male component fits.

[0093] Clause 31. The storage container of clause 30, wherein the male component of the snap-fit connector includes a cantilever lug, and the female component of the matching snap- fit connector includes a slot through which the cantilever lug is configured to fit, deflect as the cantilever lug is fit through the slot, and catch on an underside of the slot.

[0094] Clause 32. The storage container of any of clauses 28 to 31, wherein the major side surface of the handle frame unit defines a top edge at which the major side surface meets the top surface, a bottom edge, and a pair of side edges that extend between the top edge and the bottom edge, and wherein the connector of the storage container includes: at least one hook sized to fit at least one matching upper slot located proximate the top edge of the major side surface; and a cantilever lug sized to fit a matching lower slot located proximate the bottom edge of the major side surface, the cantilever lug configured to fit through the matching lower slot, deflect as the cantilever lug is fit through the matching lower slot, and catch on an underside of the matching lower slot.

[0095] Clause 33. The storage container of any of clauses 28 to 32, wherein the body includes a front surface and a rear surface that oppose one another, and that are connected by side surfaces, and wherein the connector is located on the rear surface, and the side surfaces define depressions sized to fit matching cantilever lugs of a storage compartment that is sized to fit in the storage space, the cantilever lugs configured to deflect as the storage compartment is fit in the storage space, and catch in the depressions.

[0096] Clause 34. A storage compartment of a storage system for cordless power tool batteries, the storage compartment comprising: a body sized to fit in a storage space of a storage container of the storage system, the body defining a top opening to an interior space, the body including a bottom surface that is opposite the top opening, the bottom surface defining a plurality of openings from the interior space to the storage space when the body is fit in the storage space, the openings sized to fit shafts of shafted hand tools; and connectors located on the body, the connectors configured to fit with matching connectors of the storage container when the body is fit in the storage container.

[0097] Clause 35. The storage compartment of clause 34, wherein the plurality of openings are defined by channels that extend downward from the bottom surface to respective openings to the storage space of the storage container.

[0098] Clause 36. The storage compartment of clause 34 or clause 35, wherein the storage compartment further comprises a lid configured to cover the top opening, and provide access to the interior space including the plurality of openings defined in the bottom surface.

[0099] Clause 37. The storage compartment of clause 36, wherein the lid is pivotably connected to the body.

[0100] Clause 38. The storage compartment of clause 36 or clause 37, wherein the storage compartment further comprises a rack that extends outward from a rear surface of the body, uncovered by the lid, the rack defining a second plurality of openings to the storage space of the storage container when the body is fit in the storage space, the second plurality of openings sized to fit a plurality of hand tools.

[0101] Clause 39. The storage compartment of clause 38, wherein one or more of the second plurality of openings are defined by channels that extend downward from a top surface of the rack to respective openings to the storage space of the storage container, the channels sized to fit the shafts of one or more of the plurality of hand tools that are shafted hand tools.

[0102] Clause 40. The storage compartment of any of clauses 34 to 39, wherein the connectors include snap-fit connectors configured to fit with the matching connectors that include matching snap-fit connectors.

[0103] Clause 41. The storage compartment of clause 40, wherein the snap-fit connectors include male components, and the matching snap-fit connectors include female components into which the male components fit.

[0104] Clause 42. The storage compartment of clause 41, wherein the male components of the snap-fit connectors include cantilever lugs, and the female components of the matching snap-fit connectors include openings, the cantilever lugs configured to deflect as the storage compartment is fit in the storage container, and catch in the openings.

[0100] Many modifications and other implementations of the disclosure set forth herein will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which the disclosure pertains having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing description and the associated figures. Therefore, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not to be limited to the specific implementations disclosed and that modifications and other implementations are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Moreover, although the foregoing description and the associated figures describe example implementations in the context of certain example combinations of elements and / or functions, it should be appreciated that different combinations of elements and / or functions may be provided by alternative implementations without departing from the scope of the appended claims. In this regard, for example, different combinations of elements and / or functions than those explicitly described above are also contemplated as may be set forth in some of the appended claims. Although specificterms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A storage system for cordless power tool batteries, the storage system comprising: a handle frame unit including a body with major side surfaces that oppose one another, and that are connected by minor surfaces including a top surface from which a handle extends, the handle frame unit including connectors located on respective ones of the major side surfaces; and storage containers including matching connectors with which the connectors of the handle frame unit are configured to fit to connect the storage containers to the major side surfaces and thereby the handle frame unit, one or more of the storage containers sized and contoured to receive one or more cordless power tool batteries.

2. The storage system of claim 1, wherein a major side surface of the major side surfaces defines a top edge at which the major side surface meets the top surface, a bottom edge, and a pair of side edges that extend between the top edge and the bottom edge, and wherein the connectors include at least one connector located on the major side surface, and the at least one connector includes: at least one upper slot located proximate the top edge, the at least one upper slot sized to fit at least one matching hook of one of the storage containers; and a lower slot located proximate the bottom edge, the lower slot sized to fit a matching cantilever lug of the one of the storage containers, the matching cantilever lug configured to fit through the lower slot, deflect as the matching cantilever lug is fit through the lower slot, and catch on an underside of the lower slot.

3. The storage system of claim 1, wherein the handle frame unit includes one or more lugs located on the respective ones of the major side surfaces, the one or more lugs configured to engage respective ones of the one or more cordless power tool batteries when received in the one or more storage containers.

4. The storage system of claim 1, wherein a storage container of the storage containers defines a storage space, and the storage system further comprises a storage compartment sized to fit in the storage space of a storage container, and wherein the storage compartment defines a top opening to an interior space, the storage compartment including a bottom surface that is opposite the top opening, the bottomsurface defining a plurality of openings from the interior space to the storage space when the storage compartment is fit in the storage space, the openings sized to fit shafts of shafted hand tools.

5. A handle frame unit of a storage system for cordless power tool batteries, the handle frame unit comprising: a handle; a body including major side surfaces that oppose one another, and that are connected by minor surfaces including a top surface from which the handle extends; and connectors located on respective ones of the major side surfaces, the connectors configured to fit with matching connectors of storage containers to connect the storage containers to the major side surfaces and thereby the body, one or more of the storage containers sized and contoured to receive one or more cordless power tool batteries.

6. The handle frame unit of claim 5, wherein the handle includes a top section connected to the body by opposing side sections, and the handle frame unit includes at least one cover attached to at least one of the opposing side sections.

7. The handle frame unit of claim 6, wherein the at least one cover includes an opening that extends through the at least one cover into an interior space of the body, the opening sized to fit a shaft of a shafted hand tool.

8. The handle frame unit of claim 6, wherein the at least one cover includes an interior surface with a holder for an electronic asset tracker.

9. The handle frame unit of claim 5, wherein the top surface includes a raised section with an opening that extends into an interior space of the body, the opening sized to fit a shaft of a shafted hand tool.

10. The handle frame unit of claim 5, wherein the connectors include snap-fit connectors configured to fit with the matching connectors that include matching snap-fit connectors of the storage containers.

11. The handle frame unit of claim 10, wherein the snap-fit connectors include female components, and the matching snap-fit connectors include male components that fit into the female components, and wherein the female components of the snap-fit connectors include a slot, and the male components of the matching snap-fit connectors include a matching cantilever lug configured to fit through the slot, deflect as the matching cantilever lug is fit through the slot, and catch on an underside of the slot.

12. The handle frame unit of claim 5, wherein a major side surface of the major side surfaces defines a top edge at which the major side surface meets the top surface, a bottom edge, and a pair of side edges that extend between the top edge and the bottom edge, and wherein the connectors include at least one connector located on the major side surface, and the at least one connector includes: at least one upper slot located proximate the top edge, the at least one upper slot sized to fit at least one matching hook of one of the storage containers; and a lower slot located proximate the bottom edge, the lower slot sized to fit a matching cantilever lug of the one of the storage containers, the matching cantilever lug configured to fit through the lower slot, deflect as the matching cantilever lug is fit through the lower slot, and catch on an underside of the lower slot.

13. The handle frame unit of claim 5, wherein the handle frame unit includes one or more lugs located on the respective ones of the major side surfaces, the one or more lugs configured to engage respective ones of the one or more cordless power tool batteries when received in the one or more storage containers.

14. A storage container of a storage system for cordless power tool batteries, the storage container comprising: a body defining a storage space that is sized and contoured to receive a cordless power tool battery; and a connector located on the body, the connector configured to connect the storage container to a handle frame unit that includes major side surfaces that oppose one another, and that are connected by minor surfaces including a top surface from which a handle extends, the connector configured to fit with a matching connector located on a major sidesurface of the major side surfaces of the handle frame unit to connect the storage container to the major side surface and thereby the handle frame unit.

15. The storage container of claim 14, wherein the connector includes a snap-fit connector configured to fit with a matching snap-fit connector of the handle frame unit.

16. The storage container of claim 15, wherein the snap-fit connector includes a male component, and the matching snap-fit connector includes a female component into which the male component fits, and wherein the male component of the snap-fit connector includes a cantilever lug, and the female component of the matching snap-fit connector includes a slot through which the cantilever lug is configured to fit, deflect as the cantilever lug is fit through the slot, and catch on an underside of the slot.

17. The storage container of claim 14, wherein the major side surface of the handle frame unit defines a top edge at which the major side surface meets the top surface, a bottom edge, and a pair of side edges that extend between the top edge and the bottom edge, and wherein the connector of the storage container includes: at least one hook sized to fit at least one matching upper slot located proximate the top edge of the major side surface; and a cantilever lug sized to fit a matching lower slot located proximate the bottom edge of the major side surface, the cantilever lug configured to fit through the matching lower slot, deflect as the cantilever lug is fit through the matching lower slot, and catch on an underside of the matching lower slot.

18. The storage container of claim 14, wherein the body includes a front surface and a rear surface that oppose one another, and that are connected by side surfaces, and wherein the connector is located on the rear surface, and the side surfaces define depressions sized to fit matching cantilever lugs of a storage compartment that is sized to fit in the storage space, the cantilever lugs configured to deflect as the storage compartment is fit in the storage space, and catch in the depressions.

19. A storage compartment of a storage system for cordless power tool batteries, the storage compartment comprising: a body sized to fit in a storage space of a storage container of the storage system, the body defining a top opening to an interior space, the body including a bottom surface that is opposite the top opening, the bottom surface defining a plurality of openings from the interior space to the storage space when the body is fit in the storage space, the openings sized to fit shafts of shafted hand tools; and connectors located on the body, the connectors configured to fit with matching connectors of the storage container when the body is fit in the storage container.

20. The storage compartment of claim 19, wherein the plurality of openings are defined by channels that extend downward from the bottom surface to respective openings to the storage space of the storage container.

21. The storage compartment of claim 19, wherein the storage compartment further comprises a lid configured to cover the top opening, and provide access to the interior space including the plurality of openings defined in the bottom surface.

22. The storage compartment of claim 21, wherein the storage compartment further comprises a rack that extends outward from a rear surface of the body, uncovered by the lid, the rack defining a second plurality of openings to the storage space of the storage container when the body is fit in the storage space, the second plurality of openings sized to fit a plurality of hand tools.

23. The storage compartment of claim 22, wherein one or more of the second plurality of openings are defined by channels that extend downward from a top surface of the rack to respective openings to the storage space of the storage container, the channels sized to fit the shafts of one or more of the plurality of hand tools that are shafted hand tools.

24. The storage compartment of claim 19, wherein the connectors include snap-fit connectors configured to fit with the matching connectors that include matching snap-fit connectors.

25. The storage compartment of claim 24, wherein the snap-fit connectors include male components, and the matching snap-fit connectors include female components into which the male components fit, and wherein the male components of the snap-fit connectors include cantilever lugs, and the female components of the matching snap-fit connectors include openings, the cantilever lugs configured to deflect as the storage compartment is fit in the storage container, and catch in the openings.

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