Tool with gas springs and dust protection system
By integrating a deformable dirt seal and pressure regulating elements with synchronized gas springs, the tool's leakage and wear issues are mitigated, resulting in increased setting energy and extended service life.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- PCT/EP2025/066509
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2024-06-19
- Filing Date
- 2025-06-13
- Publication Date
- 2025-12-26
AI Technical Summary
Existing gas spring-driven fastening tools suffer from high leakage and wear due to inadequate sealing against dirt and environmental particles, leading to pressure loss and a short service life, especially at higher energy settings.
Incorporating a deformable dirt seal and pressure regulating elements into the energy transfer system, along with multiple gas springs and synchronized piston arrangements, to reduce leakage, maintain constant pressure, and extend the tool's service life.
The solution enhances setting energy and extends the service life of the tool by reducing leakage, maintaining consistent pressure, and ensuring consistent fastening quality.
Smart Images

Figure EP2025066509_26122025_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
[0001] Work tool with gas springs and dust protection system
[0002] The present invention relates to a tool for driving a fastener into a substrate and an energy storage device for storing mechanical energy in a tool. Such tools typically have an electrical energy source – for example, an electric battery – and an energy transfer system that transfers the electrical energy from the electric battery to the fastener in the form of mechanical energy.
[0003] The energy transfer system comprises an energy transfer belt that converts electrical energy into mechanical energy and transfers it to an energy storage device. This energy storage device serves as an intermediate storage unit for the mechanical energy. The mechanical energy is then transferred from the energy storage device to an energy transfer element, which in turn transmits the energy to a fastening element, driving this element into the ground.
[0004] background
[0005] To drive in fasteners, the tool requires a high power output from the batteries. These batteries have a high energy density but can only provide a very limited amount of power. Therefore, all battery-powered devices require an energy storage device to store mechanical energy. This energy storage device allows the energy needed to drive in fasteners to be released very quickly. Typically, an energy transfer element, such as a piston, is used to drive in the fastener. This piston is positioned between the mechanical energy storage device and the fastener in the driving direction and moves back and forth. This is how the required high power output is achieved.
[0006] The general trend is towards developing battery-powered devices for higher driving energies (> 150 J). This will allow combustion-based devices to be replaced. Battery-powered devices are easier to use, less expensive, and have a significantly better CO2 footprint than combustion-based devices. In devices of this type, the nail is accelerated directly by the gas spring piston.
[0007] W009046076 A1 discloses a driving tool for driving fasteners. The tool operates on the principle of a gas spring, in which a cylinder filled with pressurized gas rapidly sets a piston in a driving motion, while a driver drives a fastener into a workpiece. The piston / driver is then returned to its starting position by means of a rotating or linear lifter, and the piston recompresses the gas over the piston stroke, thus preparing the tool for another driving stroke. The driver has projections on its edges that contact the lifter. A pivoting lock is controlled to move either into an engaged or disengaged position with respect to the driver projections and serves as a safety device by preventing the driver from completing a full driving stroke at an inappropriate time.The purpose of the W009046076 A1 is to provide a setting tool with a gas spring. As described above, such setting tools have the disadvantage of higher leakage at high setting energies.
[0008] EP2397272 A2 discloses a device for driving a fastener into a substrate and an energy transfer element for transferring energy to the fastener. Preferably, the energy transfer element is movable between a starting position and a setting position, wherein the energy transfer element is in the starting position before a driving operation and in the setting position after the driving operation. According to a further aspect of the application, the device includes a mechanical energy storage device for storing mechanical energy. The energy transfer element is then preferably suitable for transferring energy from the mechanical energy storage device to the fastener. The objective of EP2397272 A2 is to provide a setting device with increased setting energy. W02020 / 126403 A1 discloses a device for driving a fastener into a substrate.The device comprises a mechanical energy storage device for storing mechanical energy and an energy transfer element movable along a setting axis of a setting position for transferring energy from the mechanical energy storage device to the fastening element.The energy transfer element has a rear end in the direction of insertion, the mechanical energy storage device has a first cylindrical container and a first piston, the first cylindrical container defining a first cylinder axis and the first piston being movably arranged along the first cylinder axis in the first cylindrical container, such that the first piston closes off a partial volume of the first cylindrical container and a gas arranged in the closed partial volume of the first cylindrical container forms a first gas spring, the device further having a force transmission device which transmits a spring force of the first gas spring to the rear end of the energy transfer element, the rear end of the energy transfer element being arranged behind the first piston in the direction of insertion when the energy transfer element is in its initial position.The purpose of the W02020 / 126403 A1 is to provide a setting device with a reduced size.
[0009] The W02020 / 126403 A1 is considered the closest state of the art. Setting tools with gas springs have the disadvantage that the seals and gas spring cylinder running surfaces are not robust enough against dirt and / or environmental particles. This disadvantage leads to high wear of the seal, which in turn leads to a higher degree of contamination inside the setting tool. The consequence is that setting tools with gas springs exhibit pressure and energy loss after a short period of use, and therefore have a short service life.
[0010] The service life of these devices is affected, among other things, by pressure losses caused by leaks. These leaks primarily occur at the moving seal between the gas spring piston and the gas spring cylinder. Besides the seal geometry, leakage depends on various other factors, such as the pressure differential, the seal diameter, the relative velocity, and the number of compression cycles. Leakage increases disproportionately with increasing relative velocity. At higher gas spring piston speeds, the sealing surface cannot adequately follow the roughness of the gas spring cylinder, which can lead to thermal overload. For devices with high insertion energy, an increase in velocity—that is, of the gas spring piston and / or the energy transfer element—is inherently necessary. This, in turn, leads to increased leakage.
[0011] Therefore, the object of this invention is to increase the setting energy of a setting device on the one hand and to extend the service life of the setting device on the other.
[0012] Description
[0013] A first aspect of the invention comprises a working device for driving a fastening element into a substrate, comprising an energy transfer system, wherein the energy transfer system comprises a compression element, a roller holder, an energy transfer belt, an energy transfer element and an energy storage device for storing mechanical energy, wherein the energy storage device comprises a gas spring with a gas spring cylinder and a gas spring piston, wherein the energy transfer system comprises a deformable dirt seal, wherein the deformable dirt seal encloses a variable volume between the gas spring and the roller holder.
[0014] The energy transfer element, used to transfer energy from the mechanical energy storage device to the fastening element, is movable between a starting position and a set position along a set position axis. The energy transfer element also has a rear end in the direction of insertion. The gas spring cylinder defines a gas spring cylinder axis, and the gas spring piston can be movably arranged within the gas spring cylinder along this axis, such that the gas spring piston seals a portion of the gas spring cylinder's volume. The working device also includes at least one roller holder, which comprises at least one roller element and has an energy transfer belt running around the roller element. The roller element is mechanically connected to the gas spring piston and transmits movement of the gas spring piston to the energy transfer belt, which rests against the rear end of the energy transfer element.
[0015] The term "energy storage device" within the scope of this invention comprises at least one gas spring. Preferably, the energy storage device comprises two or four gas springs. However, embodiments with a higher number of gas springs—for example, six or eight gas springs—or an odd number of gas springs—for example, three, five, or seven gas springs—are also feasible within the context of this invention. Mechanical energy is temporarily stored in the energy storage device. This can be implemented with one or more gas springs. If only one gas spring is used, the stored energy content in the energy storage device corresponds to the stored energy content of the single gas spring. If, for example, two or four gas springs are used, the stored energy content in the energy storage device corresponds to the sum of the stored energy of the two or four gas springs, respectively.
[0016] The term "gas spring" in the context of this invention describes a gas—preferably air or nitrogen (N2)—under pressure in a gas spring cylinder, which is compressed by at least one gas spring piston. Alternatively, the gas in a gas spring cylinder can also be compressed by two gas spring pistons. In other words, in the context of this invention, the number of gas springs is defined by the number of gas spring cylinders and not by the number of gas spring pistons. The term "gas spring" does not refer to just one gas spring, but can also refer to more than one, for example, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, or ten gas springs. The same applies to the terms "gas spring cylinder" and "gas spring piston."
[0017] The term "gas spring cylinder" in the context of this invention describes a static or movable hollow cylinder, preferably with a circular cross-section. Alternatively, the hollow cylinder can also have any cross-section – for example, a rectangular or oval cross-section. The term "gas spring piston" in the context of this invention describes a movable component that, together with the surrounding gas spring cylinder, forms a closed volume which can be changed by moving the gas spring piston. Alternatively, the movement of the gas spring cylinder can occur simultaneously with the movement of the gas spring piston. The gas spring piston preferably has a circular cross-section. Alternatively, the gas spring cylinder can also have any cross-section – for example, a rectangular or oval cross-section.
[0018] At least one technical effect of this aspect is that integrating the energy storage device into the energy transfer system significantly increases the speed of the energy transfer element compared to the expansion speed of the gas spring. This results in a higher setting energy of the working device, while simultaneously reducing leakage and thus extending the service life of the working device, compared to prior art devices.
[0019] At least one further technical effect of the first aspect is that the expansion speed of the gas spring, compared to conventional working devices, can be reduced. This is because the expansion speed of the gas spring does not directly correspond to the speed of the energy transfer element, as is the case with conventional working devices. The expansion speed of the gas spring is increased by the roller holder and the energy transfer band to such an extent that the driving speed of the energy transfer element is a multiple of the expansion speed of the gas spring. This allows the expansion speed of the gas spring to be precisely adjusted. This enables a low expansion speed for the gas spring. This leads to an extended service life of the working device, as the gas spring experiences less wear due to the lower expansion speed.Less wear results in less pressure loss. This allows the tool to be used for longer periods without loss of driving energy. The user can therefore perform more fastenings with consistent fastening quality. The combination of these two technical effects leads to the solution of the objective technical task.
[0020] Within the scope of this invention, the term "deformable dirt seal" describes a sealing element within the energy transfer system that protects parts of the energy transfer system (here referred to as variable volume) from the ingress of dust and other dirt particles, thus helping to maintain constant pressure within a gas spring. The sealing element can be compressed or extracted. Furthermore, the connecting element can be moved within the energy transfer system, as it is located between the gas spring—in particular, the gas spring cylinder and / or the gas spring piston—and the roller holder. The deformable dirt seal can be made of a plastic such as TPU, PVC, EPDM, FKM, silicone, or nylon, or a material suitable for 3D printing—generally a plastic—or an elastomer or leather.
[0021] The term "variable volume" describes a section in the energy transfer system between a gas spring and a roller holder. The volume of this section can increase through compression of the gas spring and decrease through expansion. The variable volume is therefore a region between the energy storage device and the roller holder of an energy transfer system.
[0022] At least one further technical effect of the first aspect is that the ingress of dust – and other dirt particles – into the energy transmission system, and specifically into a gas spring, is reduced and ideally prevented. Furthermore, this additional design helps to maintain constant pressure within a gas spring. This results in higher setting energy of the working tool and an extended service life.
[0023] In a further embodiment, the invention comprises a working device wherein the deformable dirt seal encloses the variable volume between the gas spring cylinder and the roller holder and / or the gas spring piston and the roller holder. At least one technical effect of this further embodiment is that the ingress of dust—and other dirt particles—into the energy transmission system, and specifically into a gas spring, particularly dirt on sealing elements, is reduced and ideally prevented. Furthermore, this further embodiment helps to maintain constant pressure within a gas spring. This results in a higher setting energy of the working device and an extension of its service life.
[0024] In a further embodiment, the invention comprises a working device wherein the energy transmission system includes a pressure regulating element to prevent pressure build-up in the variable volume.
[0025] The term "pressure regulating element" encompasses any element that prevents pressure buildup within the variable volume. The pressure regulating element can be part of the deformable dirt seal, part of the gas spring, or part of a connecting element—also called an intermediate element—between the deformable dirt seal and the gas spring. Pressure buildup can occur due to small, unavoidable gas leaks from the gas spring into the variable volume. A pressure increase would inflate the deformable dirt seal.
[0026] At least one technical effect of this further embodiment is that if a large relative movement occurs between the two ends of the deformable dirt seal, the trapped air is not compressed, but is either directed to another part of the energy transfer system or expelled from the variable volume. In other words, a pressure regulating element prevents potential inflation and thus overloading of the deformable dirt seal. This prevents pressure build-up within the variable volume and therefore also extends the service life of the working device. In a further embodiment, the invention comprises a working device wherein the deformable dirt seal is a bellows or a rolling bellows.
[0027] Within the scope of this invention, the term "bellows" describes an elastic sealing element made of an elastomer, plastic or leather that folds together in an "accordion-like" manner.
[0028] Within the scope of this invention, the term "rolling bellows" describes an elastic and overlying sealing element made of an elastomer, plastic or leather.
[0029] At least one technical benefit of this further embodiment is that the ingress of dust, dirt, or other environmental particles into the energy transmission system, and specifically into a gas spring, is reduced and ideally prevented. Furthermore, this embodiment helps to maintain constant pressure within a gas spring. This results in a higher and more consistent setting energy of the working tool and an extended service life. This, in turn, leads to consistent fastening quality.
[0030] In a further embodiment, the invention comprises a working device wherein the variable volume is connected to a variable partial volume of the gas spring cylinder by means of a volume connecting element.
[0031] The term "volume connecting element" encompasses a region between the variable volume and a variable partial volume of the gas spring cylinder. The volume connecting element can be a channel or a cylindrical cavity at the end of the gas spring cylinder. If a connecting element—also called an intermediate element—is present between the deformable dirt seal and the gas spring, the volume connecting element can also be a channel or a cylindrical cavity within the connecting element. The volume connecting element itself also includes a connecting volume which, compared to the variable volume and the variable partial volume, can have a constant volume. The term "variable partial volume" encompasses a region within the gas spring cylinder that is bounded by a gas spring piston and the end of the gas spring cylinder oriented towards the deformable dirt seal.In the compressed state of the gas spring, the variable volume of the gas spring cylinder reaches its maximum volume. In the expanded state of the gas spring, the variable volume of the gas spring cylinder reaches its minimum volume.
[0032] At least one technical effect of this further embodiment is that the air in the total volume, consisting of the variable volume, the connecting volume, and the variable subvolume, can be guided between the individual volumes depending on the state of the spring—compressed or expanded. When the gas spring is compressed, the variable volume is reduced because the deformable dirt seal is also compressed. In this case, the connecting volume remains constant, and the variable subvolume assumes its maximum possible volume. In other words, when the gas spring is compressed, the majority of the air in the total volume is located in the variable subvolume of the gas spring cylinder. When the gas spring is expanded, the variable volume reaches its maximum volume because the deformable dirt seal is also expanded. In this case, the connecting volume remains constant, and the variable subvolume assumes its minimum possible volume.In other words, the majority of the air in the total volume is located within the variable volume of the deformable dirt seal when the gas spring is expanded. This ensures that, regardless of the gas spring's state, the air in the total volume is always directed in such a way that no pressure builds up in the deformable dirt seal. This prevents pressure buildup within the variable volume and thus also extends the service life of the tool.
[0033] In a further embodiment, the invention comprises a working device wherein the gas spring comprises exactly one gas spring cylinder and at least two gas spring pistons, wherein both gas spring pistons are movable in the gas spring cylinder.
[0034] At least one technical benefit of this further embodiment is that the air in the gas spring can be compressed from two sides, for example, from the right and from the left. This ensures that, during the expansion of the air, the gas spring pistons experience an expansion acceleration and thus each exhibits an expansion velocity. By integrating the gas spring with exactly one gas spring cylinder and at least two gas spring pistons into the energy transmission system, the expansion velocity of the gas spring can be reduced simultaneously with an increased velocity of the energy transmission element, since the expansion impulse is transferred to two gas spring pistons. This results in a higher setting energy of the working tool and an extension of its service life. This feature can also be configured such that the air within a single gas spring cylinder is compressed by three or more gas spring pistons.
[0035] At least one further technical benefit of this embodiment is that the two gas spring pistons only need to move two small masses. This reduces overall wear on the implement, directly extending its service life.
[0036] At least one further technical effect of this additional embodiment is that the gas spring comprises a gas spring piston that relaxes in the setting direction of the working tool and another gas spring piston that relaxes against the setting direction of the working tool. This ensures that the inertia of the moving gas spring pistons and the roller holders driven by them balances. The user experiences this technical effect as reduced recoil of the working tool when driving in the fastener.
[0037] In a further embodiment, the invention comprises a working device wherein the gas spring includes an energy synchronization element for aligning the gas spring pistons.
[0038] The term "energy synchronization element" encompasses any element that can be installed in a gas spring cylinder to modify, preferably reduce, the stroke of the gas spring piston within the cylinder. At least one technical effect of this further embodiment is that the expansion rate of the gas spring is reduced when the energy synchronization element is arranged within the cylinder in such a way as to reduce the stroke. This results in less compression within the gas spring and thus a slower expansion rate. Such stroke adjustments can also be made when the energy storage device has more than one gas spring piston. For example, a gas spring can have one gas spring cylinder and two gas spring pistons.If the delivery energies of the gas spring pistons differ, the expansion speed of each piston can be individually adjusted using an energy synchronization element. For example, if a first gas spring piston delivers more energy than a second, the stroke of the first piston can be reduced by using an energy synchronization element in the gas spring cylinder. This results in a more uniform overall setting energy of the tool and also extends its service life.
[0039] In a further embodiment, the invention comprises a working device wherein the energy synchronization element is a stop element or a aperture element.
[0040] The term "stop element" encompasses any element that can be installed in a gas spring cylinder to modify, preferably reduce, the stroke of the gas spring piston within the cylinder. The stroke of the gas spring piston is thereby achieved by a stop surface provided by the stop element.
[0041] At least one technical effect of this further embodiment is that the stroke of the gas spring or a gas spring piston is limited. For example, a gas spring can have one gas spring cylinder and two gas spring pistons. The stroke of the gas spring piston whose energy output—via the energy transfer band—must travel a longer distance to the energy transfer element is not limited by a stop element during compression of the gas spring. The stroke of the gas spring piston whose energy output—via the energy transfer band—must travel a shorter distance to the energy transfer element is limited by a stop element during compression of the gas spring. The ratio of the energy outputs of the two gas spring pistons can be defined by the positioning of the stop element within the gas spring cylinder.To synchronize the energy output, more energy must be delivered by the gas spring piston, whose energy – via the energy transfer belt – has to travel a longer distance to the energy transfer element than in the other spring. This ensures that the roller holders of the energy transfer system move at the same speed. This results in a more consistent overall setting energy of the tool and also extends its service life.
[0042] The term "perforated element" encompasses any element that can be installed in a gas spring cylinder to change the stroke of the gas spring piston within the cylinder and simultaneously adjust, preferably equalize, the proportion of air to be compressed within the cylinder. The stroke of the gas spring piston is achieved by a stop surface provided by the stop element. The proportion of air to be compressed within the cylinder is achieved through an opening—preferably circular—in the perforated element.
[0043] At least one further technical effect of this additional embodiment is that the stroke of the gas spring or a gas spring piston is limited. For example, a gas spring can have one gas spring cylinder and two gas spring pistons. The stroke of the gas spring piston whose discharge energy—via the energy transfer belt—must travel a longer distance to the energy transfer element is not limited by a perforated element during compression of the gas spring. The stroke of the gas spring piston whose discharge energy—via the energy transfer belt—must travel a shorter distance to the energy transfer element is limited by a perforated element during compression of the gas spring.
[0044] For example, one gas spring piston can expand in the direction of recoil towards the workpiece, while another gas spring piston can expand in the opposite direction. This results in different expansions of the gas spring pistons. However, both gas spring pistons are subjected to the same pressure via the common gas spring cylinder. Therefore, any movement of one gas spring piston has a feedback effect on the movement of the other. To reduce this pressure dependency, a perforated orifice plate can be used.
[0045] The ratio of the output energies of the two gas spring pistons can be defined by the positioning of the aperture element within the gas spring cylinder. To synchronize the output energies, more energy must be delivered by the gas spring piston whose output energy—via the energy transfer band—must travel a longer path to the energy transfer element than by the other spring. This ensures that the roller bearings of the energy transfer system move at the same speed. This results in a more uniform overall setting energy of the tool and also extends its service life.
[0046] At least one further technical benefit of this embodiment is that it allows for compensation of differing expansion speeds of the gas spring pistons. Different expansion speeds of the gas spring pistons can lead to disruptive resonances between them. The energy storage device can begin to oscillate, reducing the efficiency of the working device. By positioning a perforated element within the gas spring cylinder, a damped feedback between the two gas spring pistons or the two roller holders is achieved. This results in a more uniform overall setting energy of the working device and also extends its service life. In a further embodiment, the invention comprises a working device in which the energy storage device includes at least two or at least four gas springs.
[0047] At least one technical benefit of this further embodiment is that the use of an even number of gas springs ensures a uniform (symmetrical) distribution of the stored mechanical energy within the energy storage device. This ensures that the energy storage device can be more easily integrated into the known energy transmission system and that the individual compression springs can transfer the stored mechanical energy evenly to the energy input element. This results in a higher setting energy of the working tool.
[0048] At least one further technical effect of this further embodiment is that the symmetrical arrangement allows the gas springs to be installed more compactly in the energy transmission system.
[0049] In a further embodiment, the invention comprises a working device wherein the gas spring cylinder is connected to a pressure equalization element.
[0050] Alternatively, at least two gas spring cylinders from at least two gas springs or from at least four gas springs are connected by a pressure equalization element. It should be noted that with more than two gas springs, for example, with three gas springs (A, B, C), only gas springs (A) and (B) and / or gas springs (A) and (C) can be connected to each other. Furthermore, all three gas springs (A, B, C) can also be connected to each other. The crucial point is that at least two gas spring cylinders – or two gas springs – are present for each pressure equalization element.
[0051] At least one technical effect of this further embodiment is that the pressure equalization element in each of the at least two or at least four gas springs ensures pressure equalization, so that the interconnected gas springs provide the same proportion of the total stored mechanical energy in the energy storage device. For example, if an energy storage device with two gas springs is connected via the gas spring cylinders, then the same pressure prevails in both gas springs. This ensures that the force ratio of the gas spring pistons does not change even with differing leakage rates in the two gas springs. This leads to improved efficiency despite leakage. As a result, increased setting energy in the working tool and more uniform energy output can be achieved. Furthermore, the compression ratio is reduced, and pressure build-up in the energy storage device is prevented.This directly leads to an extension of the working equipment's service life.
[0052] In a further embodiment, the invention comprises a working device wherein the pressure equalization element is at least one of the following elements: i. direct pressure equalization connection; ii. separate gas reservoir; iii. connecting gas reservoir; iv. integrated pressure equalization connection.
[0053] The term "direct pressure equalization connection" within the scope of this invention describes a connecting element that is airtight, withstands high pressures, and comprises a hollow body with any cross-section, for example, round or rectangular. The direct pressure equalization connection can be made of a material such as stainless steel, aluminum, or copper—generally a metal. An aluminum tube, for example. Alternatively, the direct pressure equalization connection can also be made of a plastic such as PVC or nylon, or a material suitable for 3D printing—generally a plastic. A plastic hose, for example.
[0054] At least one technical benefit of this further embodiment is that a gas-tight connection can be achieved between the at least two gas springs. This ensures that pressure drops in the energy storage unit are better prevented. Furthermore, the compression ratio is reduced, and pressure build-up in the energy storage unit is avoided. This results in higher setting energy of the working tool and an extended service life of the working tool.
[0055] The term "separate gas reservoir" in the context of this invention describes a storage element for a gas—preferably air—which is gas-tight and can withstand high pressures. The separate gas reservoir can be made of a material such as stainless steel, aluminum, or copper—generally a metal. An aluminum tank, for example. Alternatively, the separate gas reservoir can also be made of a plastic such as PVC or nylon, or a material suitable for 3D printing—generally a plastic. A plastic tank, for example. A separate gas reservoir is connected to at least one gas spring of an energy storage device. However, it is also possible that each gas spring is connected to a separate gas reservoir, or that a single separate gas reservoir is connected to all or some of the gas springs of an energy storage device.
[0056] At least one technical benefit of this further embodiment is that a gas-tight connection can be achieved between the at least two gas springs. This ensures that pressure drops in the energy storage unit are better prevented. Furthermore, the compression ratio is reduced, and pressure build-up in the energy storage unit is avoided. This results in higher setting energy of the working tool and an extended service life of the working tool.
[0057] At least one further technical benefit of this embodiment is that the use of a separate gas reservoir as a pressure equalization element also increases the available gas volume (also called dead volume). This reduces the pressure in each individual gas spring cylinder or gas spring. As a result, increased setting energy in the working device and a more uniform energy output can be achieved. This leads to higher setting energy of the working device and an extended service life.
[0058] The term "connecting gas reservoir" in the context of this invention describes a storage and connecting element for a gas—preferably air—which is airtight, withstands high pressures, and provides a volume in which the gas can expand. In other words, the connecting gas reservoir is a combination of a direct pressure equalization connection and a separate gas reservoir. The connecting gas reservoir can be made of a material such as stainless steel, aluminum, or copper—generally a metal. Alternatively, the connecting gas reservoir can also be made of a plastic such as PVC or nylon, or a material suitable for 3D printing—generally a plastic. A connecting gas reservoir is connected to at least two gas springs of an energy storage device.However, it is also possible that each gas spring is connected to every other gas spring of the energy storage device via a connecting gas reservoir, or that a single connecting gas reservoir is connected to each individual gas spring of an energy storage device.
[0059] At least one technical benefit of this further embodiment is that a gas-tight connection can be achieved between the at least two gas springs. This ensures that pressure drops in the energy storage unit are better prevented. Furthermore, the compression ratio is reduced, and pressure build-up in the energy storage unit is avoided. This results in higher setting energy of the working tool and an extended service life of the working tool.
[0060] At least one further technical effect of this embodiment is that the use of a connecting gas reservoir as a pressure equalization element also increases the available gas volume (also called dead volume). This reduces the pressure in each individual gas spring cylinder or gas spring. As a result, increased setting energy in the working device and a more uniform energy output can be achieved. This leads to higher setting energy of the working device and an extended service life.
[0061] The term "integrated pressure equalization connection" within the scope of this invention describes a connecting element that is airtight, withstands high pressures, has a hollow body with any cross-section—for example, round or rectangular—and can be installed in a fixing element or a roller holder. The term "fixing element" describes any component in the energy transmission system to which at least two gas spring cylinders are fixed or mounted. The integrated pressure equalization connection is integrated into this fixing element, for example, by drilling, milling, or bonding. The integrated pressure equalization connection can be integrated into a material such as stainless steel, aluminum, or copper—generally any metal.Alternatively, the integrated pressure equalization connection can also be integrated into a plastic such as PVC or nylon, or a material suitable for 3D printing - generally made of a plastic.
[0062] At least one technical benefit of this further embodiment is that a gas-tight connection can be achieved between the at least two gas springs. This ensures that pressure drops in the energy storage unit are better prevented. Furthermore, the compression ratio is reduced, and pressure build-up in the energy storage unit is avoided. This results in higher setting energy of the working tool and an extended service life of the working tool.
[0063] At least one technical benefit of this further embodiment is that, by using the fixing element, no additional element is required. This reduces the weight and size of the tool. This results in a higher setting energy of the tool and an extended service life.
[0064] In a further embodiment, the invention comprises a working device, wherein the energy transmission system comprises a bearing connecting element, wherein the bearing connecting element connects the gas spring piston and the roller holder in such a way that mechanical energy can be transferred between the gas spring piston and the roller holder.
[0065] At least one technical effect of this further embodiment is that the bearing connecting element absorbs forces from the roller holder or forces from the gas spring piston and ensures that these forces are not transmitted to the seal between the gas spring piston and the gas spring cylinder. This results in a higher setting energy of the working tool and an extension of its service life.
[0066] In a further embodiment, the invention comprises a working device wherein the bearing connecting element has two connecting surfaces for connecting the gas spring piston and the roller holder, wherein the two connecting surfaces have at least one combination from the following list: i. One concave surface and one convex surface; ii. Two concave surfaces; iii. Two convex surfaces; iv. One concave and one flat surface; v. Two flat surfaces; vi. One convex surface and one flat surface.
[0067] At least one technical effect of this further embodiment is that the two connecting surfaces of the bearing connecting element absorb forces from the roller holder or forces from the gas spring piston and ensure that these forces are not transmitted to the seal between the gas spring piston and the gas spring cylinder. This results in a higher setting energy of the working tool and an extension of its service life.
[0068] At least one further technical effect of the bearing connection surfaces is that normal forces of the gas spring are transferred to the roller holder, and lateral forces caused by insufficient guidance accuracy of the roller holder are not dissipated via the seal. This allows for a moment-free transmission of the gas spring force to the roller holder. The negative lateral forces on the gas spring piston seal would reduce its sealing performance and thus shorten its service life. In other words, a pressure loss leads to reduced insertion energy and a shorter device lifespan. These effects can be avoided with this design.
[0069] A second aspect of the invention comprises a gas spring for storing mechanical energy in a working device for driving a fastening element into a substrate, comprising a gas spring cylinder and a gas spring piston, wherein the gas spring cylinder has a receptacle for a deformable dirt seal.
[0070] The term "receptacle for a deformable dirt seal" describes a surface or location on or in or on the gas spring cylinder to attach a mobile sealing element in such a way that dust and other dirt or environmental particles do not enter the gas spring as much as possible.
[0071] At least one technical benefit of this further embodiment is that the ingress of dust and other dirt or environmental particles into the gas spring is reduced and ideally prevented. Furthermore, the pressure within the gas spring is kept constant. This results in a higher setting energy of the tool and an extension of the tool's and the gas spring's service life.
[0072] In a further embodiment, the second aspect of the invention comprises a gas spring, wherein the gas spring cylinder has at least one receptacle for a volume connection element for connecting the gas spring cylinder to a pressure equalization element. The term "volume connection element" describes a surface or location on, in, or at the gas spring cylinder for attaching a pressure equalization element in such a way that pressure equalization occurs between the gas spring cylinder and the pressure equalization element.
[0073] At least one technical benefit of this further embodiment is that the volume connection element in a gas spring allows the pressure and stored mechanical energy to be distributed to another connected gas spring. This reduces the compression ratio in the gas spring and prevents pressure build-up. This directly leads to an extension of the gas spring's service life.
[0074] Further optional embodiments follow, which can be combined or specified arbitrarily with all previous embodiments of the first and second aspects and also with all further optional embodiments of the first and second aspects.
[0075] In a further optional embodiment, the invention comprises a working device wherein the energy storage device comprises at least two gas springs, wherein the at least two gas springs have different gas spring cylinder lengths.
[0076] At least one technical benefit of this further optional embodiment is that the expansion speed of the two gas springs can be adjusted relative to each other. Due to the different lengths of the gas spring cylinders, different strokes of the gas spring pistons within the two cylinders are also possible. This results in less compression within the gas spring with the shorter cylinder length and thus a slower expansion speed for that gas spring compared to the gas spring with the longer cylinder length. If the energy output of the gas springs differs, the expansion speed of each gas spring can be individually adjusted by changing at least one cylinder length. For example, if one gas spring delivers more energy than the other, the cylinder length of the first gas spring can be reduced.This results in a more even overall setting energy of the working tool and also extends the working tool's service life.
[0077] In a further optional embodiment, the invention comprises a working device wherein the gas spring comprises at least one gas spring cylinder and this gas spring cylinder comprises a volume dividing element.
[0078] The term "volume dividing element" encompasses any element that can be installed in a gas spring cylinder to divide the gas spring cylinder into two independent gas springs. This results in two gas cylinders whose gases to be compressed are not directly connected. For example, if a gas spring cylinder A is divided by a volume dividing element, the two gas spring cylinders B and C are created. When the air in gas spring cylinder B is compressed, this compression has no effect on the pressure in gas spring cylinder C. According to the definition of the term "gas spring" within the scope of this invention, gas spring cylinders B and C are therefore each components of two different gas springs.
[0079] At least one technical benefit of this further optional embodiment is an improvement in the overall energy output of the energy transfer system. The expansion speed of the two gas springs can be adjusted relative to each other. Due to the different lengths of the gas spring cylinders, different strokes of the gas spring pistons within the two cylinders are also possible. This results in less compression within the gas spring with the shorter cylinder length and thus a slower expansion speed for this gas spring compared to the gas spring with the longer cylinder length. If the energy output of the gas springs differs, the expansion speed of each gas spring can be individually adjusted by changing at least one of the cylinder lengths.For example, if one gas spring delivers more energy than a second gas spring, the cylinder length of the first gas spring can be reduced by appropriately positioning the volume dividing element. This results in a more uniform overall setting energy of the working tool and also extends its service life.
[0080] In a further optional embodiment, the invention comprises a working device, wherein the energy transmission system includes a pressure regulating element to prevent pressure build-up in the variable volume, wherein the pressure regulating element is at least one of the following: i. an outlet opening; ii. a volatile thread; iii. a check valve; iii. a filter element.
[0081] The term "release opening" encompasses a positive-locking closure of the connecting element and / or the deformable protective seal, provided with an opening – for example, a bore or a hole. At least one technical effect of this further optional embodiment is that, as soon as the pressure inside the deformable protective seal increases, the deformable protective seal lifts at a chamfered edge in such a way that the excess pressure can escape through the release opening. This prevents pressure build-up within the variable volume and thus also leads to a longer service life of the working tool.
[0082] The term "loose thread" refers to an unsealed thread on the gas spring cylinder and / or the connecting element.
[0083] At least one technical benefit of this further optional embodiment is that air can escape through the threads due to natural volatility. This effect can be improved by incorporating cuts in the thread's axial direction, similar to a PET bottle cap. This prevents pressure build-up within the variable volume and thus also extends the tool's service life.
[0084] The term "check valve" includes an additional valve on the gas spring cylinder and / or on the connecting element.
[0085] At least one technical benefit of this further optional embodiment is that, through the check valve, excess pressure can escape to the outside in case of overpressure. This prevents pressure build-up within the variable volume and thus also leads to a longer service life of the working device.
[0086] The term "filter element" refers to an additional metal part on the gas spring cylinder and / or the connecting element. This additional metal part includes an opening containing a filter element.
[0087] At least one technical effect of this further optional embodiment is that the opening creates pressure equalization to the outside, while simultaneously preventing dirt from entering the energy transmission system through the filter element. This prevents pressure build-up within the variable volume and thus also leads to a longer service life for the working device.
[0088] In a further optional embodiment, the invention comprises a working device wherein the gas spring cylinder and the gas spring piston are arranged relative to each other such that the gas spring cylinder and the gas spring piston are displaceable relative to each other and / or the gas spring piston is movable within the gas spring cylinder. Within the scope of this invention, such an arrangement of gas spring cylinder and gas spring piston is also referred to as a "telescopic gas spring".
[0089] At least one technical effect of this further optional embodiment is that both the gas spring cylinder and the gas spring piston experience expansion acceleration and thus each exhibit an expansion velocity. By integrating the telescopic gas spring into the energy transfer system, the expansion velocity of the telescopic gas spring can be reduced simultaneously with an increased velocity of the energy transfer element, since the expansion impulse is transferred to two bodies – the gas spring piston and the gas spring cylinder. This results in a higher setting energy of the working tool and an extension of its service life.
[0090] At least one further technical benefit of this optional embodiment is that only one seal is required between the gas spring piston and the gas spring cylinder, since the gas spring cylinder and the gas spring piston are movable relative to each other. This reduces the number of seals required in the working tool, resulting in a more reliable overall seal. This, in turn, extends the service life of the working tool, as the telescopic gas spring experiences less wear.
[0091] In a further optional embodiment, the invention comprises a working device wherein the gas spring piston and the roller holder each have a receiving surface for force transmission via the bearing connecting element, wherein the receiving surface of the gas spring piston and the receiving surface of the roller holder have at least one receiving surface from the following list: i. a concave surface; ii. a convex surface; iii. a flat surface.
[0092] At least one technical effect of this further optional embodiment is that the receiving surface of the roller holder absorbs the acting forces at the connecting surface of the bearing connecting element and / or the receiving surface of the gas spring piston transmits mechanical forces to the connecting surface of the bearing connecting element. This prevents mechanical forces from being transmitted to the seal between the gas spring piston and the gas spring cylinder. This results in a higher setting energy of the working tool and an extension of its service life.
[0093] In a further optional embodiment, the invention comprises a working device wherein the gas spring has at least one gas spring piston seal between the gas spring piston and the gas spring cylinder to reduce a drop in air pressure within the gas spring.
[0094] At least one technical effect of this further optional embodiment is that the pressure loss within the gas spring piston is reduced or the pressure is maintained. This leads to a higher setting energy of the working tool and an extension of its service life.
[0095] At least one technical benefit of this further optional embodiment is that a seal on the piston head protects the gas spring from the ingress of dust, environmental particles, or other contaminants. This results in a higher setting energy of the working tool and an extended service life.
[0096] In a further optional embodiment, the invention comprises a working device wherein the gas spring comprises an outer gas spring cylinder and an inner gas spring cylinder, wherein the outer gas spring cylinder and the inner gas spring cylinder have the same cylinder axis and the outer gas spring cylinder and the inner gas spring cylinder have different diameters.
[0097] At least one technical effect of this further optional embodiment is that the outer and inner gas spring cylinders are connected in such a way that the dead volume in the gas spring is significantly increased by the outer gas spring cylinder. This reduces the pressure within the gas spring, resulting in increased setting energy in the working tool and a more uniform energy output. This leads to higher setting energy of the working tool and an extended service life.
[0098] In a further optional embodiment, the invention comprises a working device wherein the energy transfer system includes a deformable dirt seal, wherein the deformable dirt seal seals a variable volume between the gas spring piston and the roller holder.
[0099] At least one technical benefit of this further optional embodiment is that it reduces, and ideally prevents, the ingress of dust and other dirt particles into the energy transmission system, and specifically into a gas spring. Furthermore, this embodiment helps to maintain constant pressure within a gas spring. This results in higher setting energy of the working tool and an extended service life.
[0100] In a further optional embodiment, the invention comprises a working device wherein the gas spring comprises an auxiliary element, wherein the auxiliary element is a damper for absorbing energy and / or a compressible seal for reducing the pressure loss in the gas spring.
[0101] At least one further technical effect of this additional optional embodiment is that the auxiliary element absorbs portions of the mechanical energy that are not transferred to the energy transfer element, thereby preventing the working tool and the user's hand from experiencing this mechanical energy. This leads to an extension of the working tool's service life.
[0102] At least one further technical effect of this optional embodiment is that the auxiliary element helps to maintain the pressure in the gas spring cylinder. This results in a higher setting energy of the working tool and an extension of its service life. The auxiliary element can be fixed to the gas spring cylinder, fixed to the gas spring piston, or loosely positioned inside the gas spring cylinder.
[0103] In a further optional embodiment, the invention comprises a working device, wherein the energy transmission system comprises a bearing connecting element, wherein the bearing connecting element connects the gas spring cylinder and the roller holder in such a way that mechanical energy can be transferred between the gas spring cylinder and the roller holder.
[0104] At least one technical effect of this further optional embodiment is that the bearing connecting element absorbs forces from the roller holder or forces from the gas spring cylinder and prevents these forces from being transmitted to the gas spring cylinder. This results in a higher setting energy of the working tool and an extension of its service life.
[0105] In a further optional embodiment, the invention comprises a working device wherein the gas spring includes a wiper element between the gas spring cylinder and the gas spring piston.
[0106] At least one technical effect of this further optional embodiment is that the pressure loss within the gas spring piston is reduced or the pressure is maintained. This leads to a higher setting energy of the working tool and an extension of its service life.
[0107] At least one technical benefit of this further optional embodiment is that the wiper element protects the gas spring from the ingress of dust, environmental particles, or other contaminants. This results in a higher setting energy of the working tool and an extended service life.
[0108] Examples of implementation
[0109] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to exemplary embodiments and the drawings.
[0110] Figure 1 shows a longitudinal section of a gas spring according to the invention in an uncompressed state (Figure 1a) and a compressed state (Figure 1a). The embodiment of a gas spring according to the invention comprises a gas spring cylinder and a gas spring piston.
[0111] Figure 2 shows an energy storage device according to the invention in an isometric view (Figure 2a) and a longitudinal section of an isometric view (Figure 2b). The embodiment of an energy storage device according to the invention comprises two gas springs which are connected to each other by a pressure equalization element.
[0112] Figure 3 shows an energy storage device according to the invention in an isometric view (Figure 3a) and a longitudinal section of an isometric view (Figure 3b). The embodiment of an energy storage device according to the invention comprises four gas springs which are connected to each other by a pressure equalization element.
[0113] Figure 4 shows an energy transmission system according to the invention in a side view (Figure 4a), a cutaway side view (Figure 4b), and an enlargement of a section of the cutaway side view (Figure 4c). The embodiment of an energy transmission system according to the invention comprises two gas springs in an expanded state.
[0114] Figure 5 shows an energy transmission system according to the invention in a side view (Figure 5a), a cutaway side view (Figure 5b), and an enlargement of a section of the cutaway side view (Figure 5c). The embodiment of an energy transmission system according to the invention comprises two gas springs in a compressed state.
[0115] Figure 6 shows a cutaway side view of a work device according to the invention. The embodiment of a work device according to the invention comprises two gas springs.
[0116] Figure 1 shows a longitudinal section of a gas spring 210 according to the invention in an uncompressed state (Figure 1a) and a compressed state (Figure 1b). The embodiment of the gas spring 210 according to the invention comprises a gas spring cylinder 212 and a gas spring piston 214. The special feature of this embodiment is that both the gas spring cylinder 212 and the gas spring piston 214 are displaceable relative to each other along axis A. Thus, the compression of the gas can be effected by the movement of the gas spring cylinder 212 and / or by the movement of the gas spring piston 214. The gas spring piston 214 of this gas spring 210 according to the invention has a gas spring piston seal 216 on the gas spring piston 214. The gas spring piston seal 216 serves to maintain the pressure in the gas spring 210.To the right and left of the gas spring piston seal 216, the gas spring 210 includes two sliding elements (not shown here) so that no force is transferred to the gas spring piston seal 216 for guiding the gas spring piston 214 in the gas spring cylinder 212.
[0117] Figure 2 shows an energy storage device 300 according to the invention in an isometric view (Figure 2a) and in a longitudinal section of an isometric view (Figure 2b). The embodiment of the energy storage device 300 according to the invention comprises two gas springs 310 which are connected to each other by a pressure equalization element 360 – in the form of a separate gas reservoir.
[0118] In this embodiment, the separate gas reservoir is designed as a gas tank and includes a volume connection element 370 for connecting the gas spring cylinders 312 to the pressure equalization element 360. The two gas springs 310 have the same design and each comprise a gas spring cylinder 312 and two gas spring pistons 314. The four gas spring pistons 314 of this energy storage device 300 according to the invention each have a gas spring piston seal 316 on the gas spring piston 314. To the right and left of the gas spring piston seal 316, each gas spring 310 comprises two sliding elements (not shown here) so that no force is transmitted to the gas spring piston seal 316 for guiding a gas spring piston 314 in a gas spring cylinder 312. In addition, all four gas spring pistons 314 have a concave receiving surface 318 for receiving the bearing connection element 350.
[0119] The embodiment of the energy system 300 comprises a total of four bearing connection elements 350, each with a convex connecting surface 352, which each adjoins a concave receiving surface 318 of a gas spring piston 314. Furthermore, each of the four bearing connection elements 350 additionally comprises a further convex connecting surface 351, which each adjoins a concave receiving surface of a roller holder (not shown here).
[0120] Figure 3b shows that the illustrated embodiment depicts two gas springs 310 in their extracted state. In this state, the gas spring piston 314 is positioned at the outer end of each gas spring cylinder 312. At this outer end, each gas spring cylinder 312 comprises an auxiliary element 340, the auxiliary element 340 having both an energy-absorbing and a sealing effect in this embodiment.
[0121] A connecting element 380 is attached to each of the outer ends of the two gas spring cylinders 312. This connecting element 380 serves to attach the deformable dirt seal 330 to the gas spring cylinder 312. In other embodiments, this connecting element 380 is not required, since the deformable dirt seal 330 can be attached directly to the gas spring cylinder 312, or the connecting element 380 is an integral part of the gas spring cylinder 312, or the connecting element 380 is an integral part of the deformable dirt seal 330.
[0122] Figure 3 shows an energy storage device 400 according to the invention in an isometric view (Figure 3a) and in a longitudinal section of an isometric view (Figure 3b). The embodiment of the energy storage device 400 according to the invention comprises four gas springs 410, which are connected to each other by a pressure equalization element 460 – in the form of a connecting gas reservoir.
[0123] In this embodiment, the connecting gas reservoir is designed as an enclosing gas tunnel and comprises a total of eight volume connection elements 470 for connecting the gas spring cylinders 412 to the pressure equalization element 460.
[0124] Figure 4b illustrates a special feature of this embodiment: The two gas springs 410 shown in section in Figure 4b demonstrate that the respective gas spring cylinders 412 are not continuous, but are interrupted in the middle by the volume connection elements 470. However, since the associated gas cylinder pistons 414 compress the same volume from both sides, a gas spring cylinder 412 is still considered a single gas spring, despite the interruption of the gas spring cylinder 412. This approach is consistent with the definition of the term "gas spring" within the scope of this invention.
[0125] The eight gas spring pistons 414 of this energy storage device 400 according to the invention each have a gas spring piston seal (not shown) on the gas spring piston 414. To the right and left of the gas spring piston seal, each gas spring 410 comprises two sliding elements (not shown) so that no force is transmitted to the gas spring piston seal for guiding a gas spring piston 414 in a gas spring cylinder 412.
[0126] Furthermore, all eight gas spring pistons 414 have a flat receiving surface 418 for receiving the bearing connection element 450. The embodiment of the energy storage device 400 comprises a total of eight bearing connection elements 450, each with a flat connecting surface that adjoins a flat receiving surface 418 of a gas spring piston 414. In addition, each of the eight bearing connection elements 450 also comprises a flat connecting surface 451 that adjoins a concave receiving surface of a roller holder (not shown here). Figure 4b shows that the illustrated embodiment depicts four gas springs 410 in the extracted state. In this state, the gas spring piston 414 is positioned at the outer end of the gas spring cylinder 412.At this outer end, the gas spring cylinder 412 includes an auxiliary element 440, wherein the auxiliary element 440 in this embodiment has both an energy-absorbing and a sealing effect.
[0127] Figure 4 shows an energy transfer system according to the invention in a side view (Figure 4a), a cutaway side view (Figure 4b), and an enlarged section of the cutaway side view (Figure 4c). Figure 4 shows the embodiment of the energy transfer system 100 according to the invention, which comprises two roller holders 120, a compression element 121, an energy transfer belt 124, and an energy transfer element 122. The energy transfer system 100 also shows two gas springs 110 in an expanded state.
[0128] The expanded state is recognizable by the fact that the four gas spring pistons 114 are at their maximum distance from each other within the two gas spring cylinders 112. Furthermore, the four deformable dirt seals 130 are also in an expanded and uncompressed state. The roller elements 123 are also visible in the sectional side view (Figure 4b).
[0129] Figures 4b and 4c also show four bearing connection elements 150, which are part of the energy transfer system 100. In the embodiment shown, the energy transfer system 100 comprises one connection element between each of the deformable dirt seals 130 and the gas spring cylinders 112.
[0130] Figure 4c shows that the connecting element is positioned on the outside of the gas spring cylinder 114. The deformable dirt seal 130 is also attached to the outside of the connecting element. At the opposite end, the deformable dirt seal 130 is attached directly to the roller holder 120. This allows the deformable dirt seal 130 to be integrated into the energy transmission system 100. Figure 4c also shows that the bearing connecting element 150 comprises two convex connecting surfaces 151 and 152. In contrast, both the roller holder 120 and the gas spring piston 114 each have a concave receiving surface 118. This connects the roller holder 120 and the gas spring piston 114.
[0131] Figure 5 shows an energy transfer system according to the invention in a side view (Figure 5a), a cutaway side view (Figure 5b), and an enlarged section of the cutaway side view (Figure 5c). The embodiment of an energy transfer system 100 according to the invention corresponds to the same embodiment as shown in Figure 4, but in the compressed state of the energy transfer system 100.
[0132] The compressed state is recognizable by the fact that the gas spring pistons 114 of the gas spring 110 are located very close together within the respective gas spring cylinder 112. In addition, the four deformable dirt seals 130 are also in a highly compressed and not expanded state.
[0133] Figure 6 shows a cutaway side view of a working device according to the invention. The embodiment of a working device according to the invention comprises two gas springs. The embodiment of the working device 591 according to the invention comprises an energy transmission system 100 in an uncompressed state, as shown in Figure 4. The working device also comprises an electrical energy source 119 (here a battery), a magazine for receiving fastening elements, an electric motor (not shown here), and a release mechanism 194.
[0134] The energy transfer system 100 comprises an energy storage device with two gas springs 110, each comprising a gas spring cylinder 112 and two gas spring pistons 114, for storing mechanical energy. Furthermore, the energy transfer system 100 includes two roller holders 120 with a total of four roller elements 123 – that is, two roller elements 123 per roller holder 120 – an energy transfer belt 124, a compression element 121, and an energy transfer element 122 (also called a working piston) for driving a fastening element into a substrate. To drive a fastening element into a substrate, electrical energy is first drawn from the electrical energy source 119 and supplied to an electric motor (not shown here). The electric motor converts the electrical energy into a rotational movement, which in turn sets the compression element 121 into a translational movement.As the compression element 121 moves in the setting direction, the roller holders 120 and thus their two roller elements 123 also move towards each other. This compresses the two gas springs 110 of the energy transfer system 100, causing them to store mechanical energy. The stored mechanical energy in the energy storage device is transferred to the energy transfer element 122 by actuating the trigger 194 via the energy transfer belt 124, driving a fastening element into a substrate.
Claims
Patent claims 1. Working device (591) for driving a fastening element into a substrate, comprising an energy transfer system (100), wherein the energy transfer system (100) comprises a compression element (121), a roller holder (120), an energy transfer belt (124), an energy transfer element (122) and an energy storage device for storing mechanical energy, wherein the energy storage device comprises a gas spring (110) with a gas spring cylinder (112) and a gas spring piston (114), characterized in that the energy transfer system (100) comprises a deformable dirt seal (130), wherein the deformable dirt seal (130) encloses a variable volume between the gas spring (110) and the roller holder (120).
2. Working device (591) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the deformable dirt seal (130) encloses the variable volume between the gas spring cylinder (112) and the roller holder (120) and / or the gas spring piston (114) and the roller holder (120).
3. Working device (591) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the energy transfer system (100) comprises a pressure regulating element to prevent pressure build-up in the variable volume.
4. Working device (591) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the deformable dirt seal (130) is a bellows or a rolling bellows.
5. Working device (591) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the variable volume is connected to a variable partial volume of the gas spring cylinder (112) by a volume connecting element.
6. Working device (591) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the gas spring (110) comprises exactly one gas spring cylinder (112) and at least two gas spring pistons (114), wherein both gas spring pistons (114) are movable in the gas spring cylinder (112).
7. Working device (591) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the gas spring (110) comprises an energy synchronization element for aligning the gas spring pistons (114).
8. Working device (591) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the energy synchronization element is a stop element or a aperture element.
9. Working device (591) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the energy storage device comprises at least two gas springs (110) or at least four gas springs (110).
10. Working device (591) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the gas spring cylinder (112) is connected to a pressure equalization element.
11. Working device (591) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the pressure equalization element is at least one of the following elements: i. direct pressure equalization connection; ii. separate gas reservoir; iii. connecting gas reservoir; iv. integrated pressure equalization connection.
12. Working device (591) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the energy transmission system (100) comprises a bearing connection element (150), wherein the bearing connection element (150) connects the gas spring piston (114) and the roller holder (120) in such a way that mechanical energy can be transferred between the gas spring piston (114) and the roller holder (120).
13. Working device (591) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the bearing connecting element (150) has two connecting surfaces (151, 152) for connecting the gas spring piston (114) and the roller holder (120), wherein the two connecting surfaces (151, 152) have at least one combination from the following list: i. One concave surface and one convex surface; ii. Two concave surfaces; iii. Two convex surfaces; iv. One concave and one flat surface; v. Two flat surfaces; vi. One convex surface and one flat surface.
14. Gas spring (110) for storing mechanical energy in a working device (591) for driving a fastening element into a substrate, comprising a gas spring cylinder (112) and a gas spring piston (114), characterized in that the gas spring cylinder (112) has a receptacle for a deformable dirt seal (130).
15. Gas spring (110) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the gas spring cylinder (112) has at least one receptacle for a volume connection element for connecting the gas spring cylinder (112) to a pressure equalization element.
Citation Information
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