Chainsaw and guide bar for use with same

Abstract

A chainsaw (100) and guide bar (200) for use with a chainsaw (100). In one embodiment, the chainsaw (100) includes a chain lubricant cartridge (301) that may be quickly attached to / detached from the chainsaw (100). In other embodiments, the chainsaw (100) includes a guide bar (200, 400) with one or more self-lubricating plastic chain guides (408) supporting a cutting chain (140).

Description

Docket No. 0206.000356W001 CHAINSAW AND GUIDE BAR FOR USE WITH SAME

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.63 / 738,905, filed 26 December 2024, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] The present application related to chainsaws and, more particularly, to chain lubrication systems and to chain guide bars for use with the same.BACKGROUND

[0003] Chainsaws are commonly used in both commercial and residential settings to, for example, reduce work time and operator exertion during otherwise rigorous timbercutting operations. Chainsaws are generally powered by gasoline engines or electric motors (e.g., via batteries or wired connections) to drive a cutting chain around a perimeter of a protruding guide bar. The chain includes teeth adapted to cut the intended medium (e.g., lumber) upon contact with the moving teeth.

[0004] Chainsaws generally require periodic chain lubrication to provide desired performance. Such lubrication is typically provided by an integral reservoir of the chainsaw. The lubricant is applied to the chain and / or guide bar during saw operation to reduce friction.SUMMARY

[0005] Embodiments described herein may provide a chainsaw comprising: a tool body comprising at least one handle; a prime mover supported by the tool body; a guide bar supported by the tool body and extending outwardly therefrom; a cutting chain extending along a perimeter of the guide bar, the chain being powered for movement relative to the guide bar by the prime mover; and a lubrication system comprising a cartridge having a quick-attach fluid coupler adapted to be selectively attachable to a lubrication system inlet on the tool body, the cartridge defining a reservoir configured to store a volume of lubricant, and wherein the system is configured to transfer the lubricantfrom the reservoir to one or both of the cutting chain and the guide bar during chainsaw operation.

[0006] In another embodiment, a chainsaw is provided comprising: a tool body comprising at least one handle; a prime mover supported by the tool body; a guide bar supported by the tool body and extending outwardly therefrom, the guide bar comprising both a metal frame and a plastic chain guide secured to the frame such that it is positioned along a portion of a perimeter of the frame; and a metal cutting chain extending along the perimeter of the frame, wherein the chain comprises guide lugs that are received within a slot defined by the chain guide.

[0007] In still another embodiment, a chainsaw is provided that includes: a tool body comprising at least one handle; an electric motor supported by the tool body, the electric motor comprising a drive shaft; and a guide bar supported by the tool body and extending outwardly therefrom. The guide bar includes: a frame having: a first exterior plate; a second exterior plate corresponding in shape to the first exterior plate; and an interior plate sandwiched between the first and second exterior plates. The interior plate has a peripheral edge that is recessed relative to corresponding peripheral edges of the first and second exterior plates such that the peripheral edges of the first and second exterior plates are spaced-apart from one another to form a gap therebetween. The guide bar also includes a chain guide positioned within the gap formed between the spaced-apart peripheral edges of the first and second exterior plates, wherein the chain guide has one or more plastic inserts secured relative to the frame. The chainsaw further includes a cutting chain extending along the peripheral edges of the first and second exterior plates, wherein the chain comprises drive lugs that are received within a slot defined by the chain guide.

[0008] The above summary is not intended to describe each embodiment or every implementation. Rather, a more complete understanding of illustrative embodiments will become apparent and appreciated by reference to the following Detailed Description of Exemplary Embodiments and claims in view of the accompanying figures of the drawing.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE VIEWS OF THE DRAWING

[0009] Exemplary embodiments will be further described with reference to the figures of the drawing, wherein:

[0010] FIG. l is a perspective view of a chainsaw in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0011] FIG. 2 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the chainsaw of FIG. 1 with a cover and guide bar removed;

[0012] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a removable lubricant cartridge in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0013] FIG. 4 is a diagrammatic view illustrating a chain lubrication system in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0014] FIG. 5 is an isolated perspective view of a guide bar in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0015] FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of the guide bar of FIG. 5;

[0016] FIG. 7 is a section view taken along line 7-7 of FIG. 5;

[0017] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the guide bar of FIG. 5 as partially assembled;

[0018] FIG. 9 is a side elevation view of the guide bar of FIG. 8; and

[0019] FIG. 10 is another isolated perspective view of the guide bar of FIG. 5 with a chain guide shown exploded therefrom.

[0020] The figures are rendered primarily for clarity and, as a result, are not necessarily drawn to scale. Moreover, various structure / components, including but not limited to fasteners, electrical components (wiring, cables, etc.), and the like, may be shown diagrammatically or removed from some or all of the views to better illustrate aspects of the depicted embodiments, or where inclusion of such structure / components is not necessary to an understanding of the various exemplary embodiments described herein. The lack of illustration / description of such structure / components in a particularfigure is, however, not to be interpreted as limiting the scope of the various embodiments in any way.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

[0021] In the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments, reference is made to the accompanying figures of the drawing which form a part hereof. It is to be understood that other embodiments, which may not be described and / or illustrated herein, are certainly contemplated.

[0022] All headings provided herein are for the convenience of the reader and should not be used to limit the meaning of any text that follows the heading, unless so specified. Moreover, unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing quantities, and all terms expressing direction / orientation (e.g., vertical, horizontal, parallel, perpendicular, etc.) in the specification and claims are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term “about.” The term “and / or” (if used) means one or all of the listed elements or a combination of any two or more of the listed elements. The term “i.e ” is used as an abbreviation for the Latin phrase id est and means “that is.” The term “e.g.” is used as an abbreviation for the Latin phrase exempli gratia and means “for example.”

[0023] Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed generally to chainsaws, e.g., handheld units such as the chainsaw 100 illustrated in FIG. 1. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, instead of a conventional (permanent), on-board lubricant reservoir, chain lubricant may be provided via a pre-filled and / or refillable reservoir or “cartridge” (e.g., cartridge 301) having quick-attach features that permit the cartridge to quickly fluidly attach to / detach from the chainsaw. Such cartridges may provide various advantages including simplified lubrication, cleaning, and storage of the chainsaw.Moreover, quick-attach lubricant cartridges may permit easily changing lubricant type as needed (e.g., when operating the chainsaw in areas that prohibit or discourage the use of petroleum-based lubricants). While shown as attached to a front side of the chainsaw, embodiments wherein the cartridge attaches from a lateral side, top, or bottom are also contemplated.

[0024] In other embodiments of the present disclosure, the chainsaw may include a chain guide bar itself having self-lubricating properties. For example, while conventional chainsaws may use a metal chain riding upon a metal guide bar, embodiments of the present disclosure may include a guide bar having one or more portions formed of a polymer such as acetal, polyamides (e.g., nylon), and / or other plastics. The use of such materials provide self-lubricating properties that may allow the chainsaw to operate with minimal (and in some cases, no) fluid lubrication.

[0025] It is noted that the terms “have,” “include,” “comprise,” and variations thereof, do not have a limiting meaning, and are used in their open-ended sense to generally mean “including, but not limited to,” where the terms appear in the accompanying description and claims. Further, “a,” “an,” “the,” “at least one,” and “one or more” are used interchangeably herein. Moreover, relative terms such as “left,” “right,” “front,” “fore,” “forward,” “rear,” “aft,” “rearward,” “top,” “bottom,” “side,” “upper,” “lower,” “above,” “below,” “horizontal,” “vertical,” and the like may be used herein and, if so, are from the perspective shown in the particular figure, or while the chainsaw 100 is in an operating configuration (e.g., while the chainsaw 100 is positioned as shown in FIG. 1). These terms are used only to simplify the description, however, and not to limit the interpretation of any embodiment described. In a similar manner, terms such as “first” and “second” may be used herein to describe various elements. However, such terms are provided merely to simplify identification of the element(s). Accordingly, if an element is described as “first,” there may or may not be any other subsequent elements - that is, a “second” element is not necessarily present. It is further understood that the description of any particular element as being operatively attached, connected, or coupled to another element may indicate, unless otherwise noted, that the elements are either directly attached, connected, or coupled to one another, or are indirectly attached, coupled, or connected to one another via intervening elements.

[0026] With reference to the figures of the drawing, wherein like reference numerals designate like parts and assemblies throughout the several views, FIG. 1 shows a chainsaw 100 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, while FIG. 2 is an enlarged partial view of the chainsaw 100 illustrating portions of a chain drive system.

[0027] The chainsaw 100 may include a tool housing or body 102 supporting a prime mover and a guide bar 200, the latter extending outwardly from the tool body. While the prime mover may be configured as an internal combustion engine, it is, in the illustrated embodiments, an electric motor 104 (see cut-away in FIG. 2) powered by a detachable battery pack 105 (see FIG. 1). A cutting chain 140, which may be constructed of metal, is provided and extends along a perimeter of the guide bar 200 (along peripheral edges of first and second exterior plates of the guide bar as described below) as shown in FIG. 1, whereby the chain is powered for movement relative to the guide bar by the electric motor 104 via the drive system. During operation, powering the chain such that it translates relative to the guide bar permits cutting teeth 142 formed by the chain 140 to cut through timber and other media that comes into contact with the moving chain.

[0028] In some embodiments, the battery pack 105 has a lithium-based chemistry, although batteries of other chemistries, as well as other power sources, are certainly possible without departing from the scope of this disclosure. As stated above, the battery pack 105 may be detachable from the chainsaw body and recharged using a remote charger (not shown). Alternatively, the battery may be charged while remaining in place (e.g., via an external AC or DC power source) on the chainsaw.

[0029] Portions of the chain drive system are shown in FIG. 2 (drive gear cover 110 (see FIG. 1) and guide bar 200 removed in this view for clarity). As indicated in this view, the chain 140 may include drive or guide lugs 144 adapted to engage a drive gear 112 operatively connected to a drive shaft 114 of the electric motor 104. As a result, energizing the electric motor 104 may produce rotation of the drive gear 112 and associated translation of the cutting chain 140 along the guide bar 200. Fasteners 116, 118 (see FIG. 2) may be provided to permit removable attachment of the guide bar 200 to the body 102 of the chainsaw 100, as well as allow adjustment (e.g., tightening and loosening) of the chain 140 once installed.

[0030] The exemplary chainsaw 100 (e.g., the tool body 102) may further include one (e.g., rear) handle 120 extending from a rear of the body 102, as well as an upwardly extending front handle 121 positioned near a more forward portion of the body. The rear and front handles 120, 121 may form grips adapted to receive hands of an operator during saw operation.

[0031] An actuator or “trigger” switch 122 may be provided, e.g., within comfortable reach on the particular hand grasping the rear handle 120. When the switch 122 is depressed or otherwise closed, the electric motor 104 (see FIG. 2) is energized (assuming various saw interlocks are in the correct state), causing the chain 140 to translate relative to the guide bar 200. A second switch (not shown) may also be provided, wherein actuation of the second switch may be a prerequisite to actuation of the trigger. In some embodiments, the trigger switch 122 is connected to a variable resistor such that a speed of the motor 104 may vary in proportion to the degree of travel of the switch. A movable hand guard 123, which may also function as a chain brake if tripped, may also be provided.

[0032] Conventional chainsaws typically include a small lubricant reservoir permanently attached to the chainsaw body and adapted to hold a volume of chain lubricant therein. As the lubricant is dispersed from the reservoir to the chain and / or guide bar during operation, the lubricant contained in the reservoir eventually depletes, at which point the operator may add additional fluid, e.g., via a removable screw cap on the chainsaw body / reservoir.

[0033] Chainsaws on accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, on the other hand, may instead include a detachable lubricant cartridge 301, an exemplary embodiment of which is illustrated in isolation in FIG. 3 and as attached to the chainsaw 100 in FIG. 1. The cartridge may form or otherwise define a reservoir 305 (see FIG. 4) configured to store a volume of chain lubricant 306 therein. The terms “cartridge” and “reservoir” as applied to the examples herein may be used interchangeably to refer to a component operable to hold chain lubricant therein.

[0034] In some embodiments, the reservoir of the cartridge 301 can be pre-filled with any one of various chain lubricants (e.g., petroleum-based oil, bio-degradable oil such as vegetable-based oil, etc.) and may be quickly attached to, and detached from, the chainsaw body 102. Stated another way, the cartridge may be selected from two or more cartridges, wherein each of the two or more cartridges contain a lubricant having a different chemistry than a lubricant contained in the other of the two or more cartridges. Moreover, the cartridge 301 may be refillable (e.g., via a resealable fill port) or, alternatively, disposable when the lubricant contained therein is depleted. In someembodiments, the cartridge may also be made of biodegradable or recyclable materials, e.g., to reduce environmental impact of the depleted cartridge.

[0035] With reference to FIGS. 1, 3, and 4, the cartridge 301 may form part of a chainsaw lubrication system 300 adapted to deliver lubricant contained within the reservoir 305 of the cartridge 301 to the chain 140 / guide bar 200 during saw operation. The cartridge may therefore include a quick-attach fluid coupler 302 adapted to selectively and fluidly attach to a lubrication system receiver or inlet 119 located on the body 102. The lubrication system 300 may further include fluid components 303 (which may, for example, include conduits, seals, pumps, strainers, valves, etc.) adapted to transfer the lubricant from the reservoir of the cartridge 301 / inlet 119 to the chain and / or guide bar during chainsaw operation. For example, the components may include a pump 307 powered by the electric motor 104 and configured to draw lubricant from the reservoir 305 of the cartridge 301 and deliver it via an orifice 304 to one or both the chain 140 and the guide bar 200. In other embodiments, the pump may be optional and lubricant delivery may occur via a simple gravity feed mechanism.

[0036] As shown in FIG. 3, the cartridge 301 may include a quick-attach fluid coupler 302 adapted to seal the cartridge with the chainsaw body and fluidly connect the cartridge reservoir 305 to the remainder of the lubrication system 300 in a generally fluid-tight manner. The coupler 302 and inlet 119 may thus include various seals and engagement members adapted to not only connect the cartridge 301 to the chainsaw body 102, but also to open a valve or orifice of the reservoir 305 to allow flow of lubricant from the cartridge 301 (to the components 303) without excessive leakage. In some embodiments, the inlet 119 may include a pin (not shown) that contacts a button seal on the coupler 302 that is normally biased to a closed position. When the coupler 302 is inserted into the inlet 119 and sealed therewith, the pin may depress the button, permitting lubricant to exit the cartridge and pass into the lubrication system 300. When the cartridge 301 is removed from the chainsaw body 102, the bias of the button seal may close, preventing further flow of lubricant from the cartridge.

[0037] As stated above, cartridge 301 may be constructed to permit lubricant refilling, e.g., once the reservoir 305 is depleted. For example, a twist cap (not shown) could be provided on a side of the cartridge, or the coupler 302 itself may be either removed(unscrewed) or, alternatively, mated with a refill bottle (having a pin similar to that described above in the context of the inlet 119) that would allow fluid transfer to the cartridge 301 when the latter is mated with the refill bottle.

[0038] Cartridge lubrication such as that described herein may provide various benefits including, but not limited to, less lubricant waste / spillage and simplified cleanup, as well as reduced leakage from the chainsaw during storage (e.g., by removal of the cartridge from the saw). Moreover, an operator may replace cartridges quickly as operating needs or different jobs dictate (e.g., when use of bio-degradable oil is desired).

[0039] While cartridge-based lubricant systems such as those described above may provide various benefits, other embodiments of the present disclosure may include, in addition or alternatively, a guide bar structure that may effectively reduce, or even eliminate, the need for fluid-based chain lubrication. Examples of such guide bars will now be described with reference to FIGS. 5-10.

[0040] As an initial matter, guide bars such as those described below may be used in conjunction with cartridge lubrication systems like those described above, or with conventional fixed reservoir chain lubrication systems. Moreover, as stated above, chainsaws incorporating guide bar configurations such as those described herein below could, in some applications, even eliminate the need for fluid chain lubrication.

[0041] FIG. 5 illustrates an isolated guide bar 400 (i.e., shown detached from the chainsaw and with no chain installed) in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, while FIG. 6 shows the exemplary guide bar 400 exploded to illustrate its constituent parts. While shown with a different reference number, the guide bar 400 is understood to be interchangeable with the guide bar 200 illustrated elsewhere herein (see FIG. 1).

[0042] With reference to FIG. 5, the exemplary guide bar 400 may include a frame 404. The frame may be supported on the body 102 of the chainsaw by passing fasteners 116, 118 (see FIG. 2) through a slot 402 formed at a proximal end 403 of the frame 404 (the fasteners being then threaded into receivers of the chainsaw body). When so mounted, the guide bar 400 extends outwardly from the body to terminate at a distal end 405. As with conventional guide bars, the guide bar 400 may include a metal frame 404,e.g., to provide the desired rigidity and strength. However, unlike conventional guide bars, the guide bar may utilize one or more plastic chain guides 408 mechanically secured to the frame 404 such that the chain guide(s) is positioned along at least a portion of a perimeter of the frame as shown. In this way, the cutting chain 140 extends along a perimeter of the frame 404.

[0043] In the illustrated embodiment, chain guides are provided along both upper and lower primary cutting surfaces 410 and 411 of the frame 404, respectively. However, embodiments wherein only a single cutting surface 410 or 411 incorporates a chain guide are also possible. Moreover, each chain guide 408 is illustrated as formed by a single component. Such a configuration is exemplary only as embodiments wherein each guide is formed by multiple components are also contemplated, as are embodiments wherein a chain guide may be additionally or alternatively included at other locations along the perimeter of the guide bar (e.g., at the distal end 405). In fact, it is contemplated that a plastic chain guide may be positioned around all, or nearly all of the guide bar that contacts the chain (e.g., it could extend along both cutting surfaces 410, 411 as shown, as well as extend between those two surfaces by wrapping around the distal end 405).

[0044] As shown in FIG. 6, the frame 404 may be a multi-component part including: a first exterior plate 412; a second exterior plate 413 corresponding in shape to the first exterior plate; and an interior plate 414 sandwiched between the first and second exterior plates. In some embodiments, one or more of the plates 412, 413, and 414 of the frame 404 may be constructed of metal. The interior plate 414 may include a peripheral edge that is recessed relative to corresponding peripheral edges of the first and second exterior plates 412, 413 such that the peripheral edges of the first and second exterior plates are spaced-apart from one another. This construction yields a channel or gap 416 (see FIG. 5) along the perimeter of the frame between the first and second exterior plates 412, 413. This gap, in addition to accommodating (receiving therein) the chain guides 408 as further described below, also provides a track to receive the drive lugs 144 of the chain 140 (see FIG. 2). Although not illustrated herein, the guide bar 400 may, in some embodiments, include a rotating gear mounted near the distal end 405 between the first and second exterior plates 412, 413 (e.g., using a through hole 418). The rotating gear includes teeth having a pitch matching that of the links of the chain 140. Thus, therotating gear may assist the chain in translating along the distal end 405. Such a gear may be unnecessary when the chain guide 408 is configured to wrap around the distal end 405.

[0045] The chain guides 408 may be positioned within the channel or gap 416 formed between the peripheral edges of the first and second exterior plates 412, 413. For example, in the illustrated embodiments, the chain guides form plastic inserts that may be secured relative to the frame 404 by rivets 419 passing through holes 420 as best shown in FIG. 7, which is a section view taken along line 7-7 of FIG. 5.

[0046] As further shown in FIG. 7, each insert / chain guide 408 includes two spacedapart elongate rails 422 extending parallel to one another to form a corresponding elongate track or slot 423 therebetween. The slot is sized to receive and transversely restrain the drive lugs 144 of the chain 140 (see FIG. 2) when the chain is attached to the guide bar 400. The rails 422 are connected to one another by a transverse integral base 424 (e.g., the rails extend away from a first side of the base) such that the rails and the base together define a generally U-shaped cross section. Each chain guide 408 further includes an elongate mounting leg 426 extending from a second side of the base 424 opposite the first side of the base and parallel to the rails. The leg 426, as further described below, may be sandwiched between the first and second exterior plates 412, 413 to allow rigidly securing or otherwise fixing the chain guide 408 to the frame 404 of the guide bar. The rails 422, base 424, and leg 426 may be formed as an integral component having a generally Y-shaped cross section as shown, for example, in FIGS. 6 and 7.

[0047] FIG. 8 illustrates the guide bar 400 partially assembled (e.g., with the first plate 412 removed) to better illustrate mounting of the chain guides 408 to the frame 404. As shown in this view, a peripheral edge 428 of the interior plate 414 forms a serpentine shape. The mounting leg 426 of the chain guide may define a locating surface 430 positioned proximate the peripheral edge 428 having a corresponding but shifted serpentine shape. Accordingly, peaks of the locating surface 430 are positioned / located within / between valleys of the peripheral edge 428 of the interior plate.

[0048] The additional mass provided by protruding the peaks (relative to the valleys) of the interior plate 414 may increase its overall stiffness, while the intervening valleys ofthe interior plate allow adequate intrusion of the chain guide to permit fastening (riveting) of the chain guide to the frame (e.g., to the first and second exterior plates 412, 413). That is to say, the serpentine valleys in the peripheral edge 428 of the interior plate 414 permit the corresponding protruding portions of the locating surface 430 of the chain guide to expand sufficiently to accommodate the rivets (via holes 420). FIG. 9 is side elevation view of the partial guide bar of FIG. 8 showing the interaction of the chain guide 408 with the interior plate when assembled. As shown in this view, peaks 415 of the interior plate 414 are, as stated above, positioned within valleys 409 of the chain guides 408, while peaks 407 of the chain guides are positioned within valleys 417 of the interior plate.

[0049] With reference now to FIG. 10 the frame 404 (i.e., the exterior plates 412, 413) may define one or more recessed or notched portions 432 in the frame’s perimeter. The chain guide may then be located within this notched portion 432 such that, when the chain guide 408 is seated in the notched portion, the slot 423 defined by the chain guide aligns with the gap 416 (see also FIG. 5) formed between the first and second exterior plates. As a result, the drive lugs 144 of the chain 140 (see FIG. 2) may be transversely restrained, but free to longitudinally translate around the perimeter of the frame.

[0050] During manufacture, the chain guides 408 may be positioned with the exterior plates 412, 413 and the interior plate 414 as shown in FIG. 5. Once assembled, the components may by secured using one or more rivets 419 as shown in FIG. 7. For example, a first set of rivets may pass through the first and second exterior plates 412, 413 and the chain guides 408 (e.g., through the legs / peaks of the inserts / chain guides), effectively securing the first and second exterior plates, the interior plate, and the chain guide relative to one another. A second set of rivets (passing through holes 421 in FIG. 5) may pass through the first and second exterior plates 412, 413 and the interior plate 414. However, other rivet configurations that adequately secured the components of the guide bar to one another are certainly possible within the scope of this disclosure. Moreover, fasteners other than rivets (e.g., bolts and nuts) may alternatively be utilized.

[0051] While shown as providing the notched portions 432 to accommodate the chain guides 408, such notched portions may be unnecessary in other embodiments. For example, in embodiments wherein the chain guide(s) extend around most or all of theframe of the guide bar, such notched portions would be unnecessary as the drive lugs 144 would be accommodated at all times by the slot(s) 423 formed in the chain guide(s).

[0052] While the present disclosure is not so limited, an appreciation of various aspects of the disclosure will be gained through a discussion of the specific illustrative aspects provided below. Various modifications of the illustrative aspects, as well as additional aspects of the disclosure, will become apparent herein.

[0053] Example l is a chainsaw comprising: a tool body comprising at least one handle; a prime mover supported by the tool body; a guide bar supported by the tool body and extending outwardly therefrom; a cutting chain extending along a perimeter of the guide bar, the chain being powered for movement relative to the guide bar by the prime mover; and a lubrication system comprising a cartridge having a quick-attach fluid coupler adapted to be selectively attachable to a lubrication system inlet on the tool body, the cartridge defining a reservoir configured to store a volume of lubricant, and wherein the system is configured to transfer the lubricant from the reservoir to one or both of the cutting chain and the guide bar during chainsaw operation.

[0054] Example 2 includes the chainsaw of Example 1, wherein the cartridge is one selected from two or more cartridges, each of the two or more cartridges containing a lubricant having a different chemistry than a lubricant contained in the other of the two or more cartridges.

[0055] Example 3 includes the chainsaw of any one of Examples 1-2, wherein the guide bar comprises both a frame and a plastic chain guide secured the frame, wherein the chain guide defines a slot adapted to receive drive lugs of the cutting chain.

[0056] Example 4 includes the chainsaw of Example 3, wherein the frame of the guide bar comprises metal.

[0057] Example 5 includes the chainsaw of any one of Examples 3-4, wherein the chain guide is riveted to the frame of the guide bar.

[0058] Example 6 includes the chainsaw of any one of Examples 3-5, wherein the frame of the guide bar comprises two exterior plates and an interior plate sandwiched between the two exterior plates.

[0059] Example 7 includes the chainsaw of Example 6, wherein the two exterior plates, the interior plate and the chain guide are secured relative to one another via one or more rivets.

[0060] Example 8 is a chainsaw comprising: a tool body comprising at least one handle; a prime mover supported by the tool body; a guide bar supported by the tool body and extending outwardly therefrom, the guide bar comprising both a metal frame and a plastic chain guide secured to the frame such that it is positioned along a portion of a perimeter of the frame; and a metal cutting chain extending along the perimeter of the frame, wherein the chain comprises guide lugs that are received within a slot defined by the chain guide.

[0061] Example 9 includes the chainsaw of Example 8, wherein the chain engages a drive gear operatively connected to a drive shaft of the prime mover such that the prime mover causes translation of the cutting chain along the guide bar.

[0062] Example 10 includes the chainsaw of any one of Examples 8-9, wherein the frame of the guide bar comprises: a first exterior plate; a second exterior plate corresponding in shape to the first exterior plate; and an interior plate sandwiched between the first and second exterior plates, wherein the interior plate has a peripheral edge that is recessed relative to corresponding peripheral edges of the first and second exterior plates such that a channel is formed along the perimeter of the frame, and wherein the channel is configured to receive the chain guide therein.

[0063] Example 11 includes the chainsaw of Example 10, wherein the peripheral edge of the interior plate comprises a serpentine shape.

[0064] Example 12 includes the chainsaw of Example 11, wherein a mounting leg of the chain guide comprises a locating surface positioned proximate the peripheral edge of the interior plate, the locating surface having a corresponding serpentine shape such that peaks of the locating surface are located within valleys of the peripheral edge of the interior plate.

[0065] Example 13 includes the chainsaw of Example 10, further comprising one or more rivets extending through the first and second exterior plates and the chain guide, theone or more rivets configured to secure the first and second exterior plates, the interior plate, and the chain guide relative to one another.

[0066] Example 14 includes the chainsaw of Example 13, further comprising one or more second rivets extending through the first and second exterior plates and the interior plate.

[0067] Example 15 includes the chainsaw of any one of Examples 8-14, wherein the chain guide is located within a notched portion of the perimeter of the frame such that, when the chain guide is seated in the notched portion, the slot defined by the chain guide aligns with a gap formed between first and second exterior plates of the guide bar.

[0068] Example 16 is a chainsaw comprising: a tool body comprising at least one handle; an electric motor supported by the tool body, the electric motor comprising a drive shaft; a guide bar supported by the tool body and extending outwardly therefrom, the guide bar comprising: a frame including: a first exterior plate; a second exterior plate corresponding in shape to the first exterior plate; and an interior plate sandwiched between the first and second exterior plates, wherein the interior plate has a peripheral edge that is recessed relative to corresponding peripheral edges of the first and second exterior plates such that the peripheral edges of the first and second exterior plates are spaced-apart from one another to form a gap therebetween; and a chain guide positioned within the gap formed between the spaced-apart peripheral edges of the first and second exterior plates, wherein the chain guide comprises one or more plastic inserts secured relative to the frame; and a cutting chain extending along the peripheral edges of the first and second exterior plates, wherein the chain comprises drive lugs that are received within a slot defined by the chain guide.

[0069] Example 17 includes the chainsaw of Example 16, wherein the plastic insert comprises: two spaced-apart elongate rails extending parallel to one another such that a slot is defined therebetween, the elongate rails extending away from a first side of an integral base; and an elongate mounting leg extending from a second side of the base opposite the first side, wherein the leg is sandwiched between the first and second exterior plates.

[0070] Example 18 includes the chainsaw of Example 17, further comprising one or more rivets passing through the first and second exterior plates and the elongate leg of the insert.

[0071] Example 19 includes the chainsaw of any one of Examples 16-17, further comprising one or more rivets passing through the first and second exterior plates and the interior plate.

[0072] Example 20 includes the chainsaw of any one of Examples 17-19, further comprising a lubrication system including a cartridge having a quick-attach fluid coupler selectively attachable to a lubrication system inlet on the tool body, the cartridge defining a reservoir configured to store a volume of lubricant, and wherein the system is configured to transfer the lubricant from the reservoir to one or both of the cutting chain and the guide bar during chainsaw operation.

[0073] Example 21 includes the chainsaw of Example 20, wherein the cartridge is one selected from two or more cartridges, each of the two or more cartridges containing a lubricant having a different chemistry than a lubricant contained in the other of the two or more cartridges.

[0074] Illustrative embodiments are described and reference has been made to possible variations of the same. These and other variations, combinations, and modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and it should be understood that the claims are not limited to the illustrative embodiments set forth herein.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A chainsaw comprising:a tool body comprising at least one handle;a prime mover supported by the tool body;a guide bar supported by the tool body and extending outwardly therefrom; a cutting chain extending along a perimeter of the guide bar, the chain being powered for movement relative to the guide bar by the prime mover; anda lubrication system comprising a cartridge having a quick-attach fluid coupler adapted to be selectively attachable to a lubrication system inlet on the tool body, the cartridge defining a reservoir configured to store a volume of lubricant, and wherein the system is configured to transfer the lubricant from the reservoir to one or both of the cutting chain and the guide bar during chainsaw operation.

2. The chainsaw of claim 1, wherein the cartridge is one selected from two or more cartridges, each of the two or more cartridges containing a lubricant having a different chemistry than a lubricant contained in the other of the two or more cartridges.

3. The chainsaw of any one of claims 1-2, wherein the guide bar comprises both a frame and a plastic chain guide secured the frame, wherein the chain guide defines a slot adapted to receive drive lugs of the cutting chain.

4. The chainsaw of claim 3, wherein the frame of the guide bar comprises metal.

5. The chainsaw of claim 3, wherein the chain guide is riveted to the frame of the guide bar.

6. The chainsaw of claim 3, wherein the frame of the guide bar comprises two exterior plates and an interior plate sandwiched between the two exterior plates.

7. The chainsaw of claim 6, wherein the two exterior plates, the interior plate and the chain guide are secured relative to one another via one or more rivets.

8. A chainsaw comprising:a tool body comprising at least one handle;a prime mover supported by the tool body;a guide bar supported by the tool body and extending outwardly therefrom, the guide bar comprising both a metal frame and a plastic chain guide secured to the frame such that it is positioned along a portion of a perimeter of the frame; anda metal cutting chain extending along the perimeter of the frame, wherein the chain comprises guide lugs that are received within a slot defined by the chain guide.

9. The chainsaw of claim 8, wherein the chain engages a drive gear operatively connected to a drive shaft of the prime mover such that the prime mover causes translation of the cutting chain along the guide bar.

10. The chainsaw of any one of claims 8-9, wherein the frame of the guide bar comprises:a first exterior plate;a second exterior plate corresponding in shape to the first exterior plate; and an interior plate sandwiched between the first and second exterior plates, wherein the interior plate has a peripheral edge that is recessed relative to corresponding peripheral edges of the first and second exterior plates such that a channel is formed along the perimeter of the frame, and wherein the channel is configured to receive the chain guide therein.

11. The chainsaw of claim 10, wherein the peripheral edge of the interior plate comprises a serpentine shape.

12. The chainsaw of claim 11, wherein a mounting leg of the chain guide comprises a locating surface positioned proximate the peripheral edge of the interior plate, the locating surface having a corresponding serpentine shape such that peaks of the locating surface are located within valleys of the peripheral edge of the interior plate.

13. The chainsaw of claim 10, further comprising one or more rivets extending through the first and second exterior plates and the chain guide, the one or more rivets configured to secure the first and second exterior plates, the interior plate, and the chain guide relative to one another.

14. The chainsaw of claim 13, further comprising one or more second rivets extending through the first and second exterior plates and the interior plate.

15. The chainsaw of any one of claims 8-14, wherein the chain guide is located within a notched portion of the perimeter of the frame such that, when the chain guide is seated in the notched portion, the slot defined by the chain guide aligns with a gap formed between first and second exterior plates of the guide bar.

16. A chainsaw comprising:a tool body comprising at least one handle;an electric motor supported by the tool body, the electric motor comprising a drive shaft;a guide bar supported by the tool body and extending outwardly therefrom, the guide bar comprising:a frame including:a first exterior plate;a second exterior plate corresponding in shape to the first exterior plate; andan interior plate sandwiched between the first and second exterior plates, wherein the interior plate has a peripheral edge that is recessed relative to corresponding peripheral edges of the first and second exterior plates such that the peripheral edges of the first and second exterior plates are spaced-apart from one another to form a gap therebetween; anda chain guide positioned within the gap formed between the spaced-apart peripheral edges of the first and second exterior plates, wherein the chain guide comprises one or more plastic inserts secured relative to the frame; anda cutting chain extending along the peripheral edges of the first and second exterior plates, wherein the chain comprises drive lugs that are received within a slot defined by the chain guide.

17. The chainsaw of claim 16, wherein the plastic insert comprises:two spaced-apart elongate rails extending parallel to one another such that a slot is defined therebetween, the elongate rails extending away from a first side of an integral base; andan elongate mounting leg extending from a second side of the base opposite the first side, wherein the leg is sandwiched between the first and second exterior plates.

18. The chainsaw of claim 17, further comprising one or more rivets passing through the first and second exterior plates and the elongate leg of the insert.

19. The chainsaw of any one of claims 16-17, further comprising one or more rivets passing through the first and second exterior plates and the interior plate.

20. The chainsaw of claim 17, further comprising a lubrication system including a cartridge having a quick-attach fluid coupler selectively attachable to a lubrication system inlet on the tool body, the cartridge defining a reservoir configured to store a volume of lubricant, and wherein the system is configured to transfer the lubricant from the reservoir to one or both of the cutting chain and the guide bar during chainsaw operation.

21. The chainsaw of claim 20, wherein the cartridge is one selected from two or more cartridges, each of the two or more cartridges containing a lubricant having a different chemistry than a lubricant contained in the other of the two or more cartridges.

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