Drive-in device with multiple interfaces

Abstract

The invention relates to a drive-in device with multiple interfaces.

Description

[0001] R. 417989

[0002] - 1 -

[0003] Description

[0004] title

[0005] Drive-in tool with multiple interfaces

[0006] The invention relates to a driving device with multiple interfaces.

[0007] State of the art

[0008] Power tools like nail guns are available in both corded and battery-powered versions. The following description focuses on battery-powered nail guns.

[0009] Battery-powered nail guns with various battery voltages are known from current technology. The batteries are designed as attachable battery packs. This allows for easy battery replacement and emphasizes the dedicated use of one battery pack per device. However, nail guns are designed for a specific voltage source and cannot be operated with other voltages. This means that an 18V nail gun requires an 18V battery, a 40V nail gun a 40V battery, and so on. Mixing or using other voltage sources is not possible. The batteries are not interchangeable between devices of different voltage classes.

[0010] Disclosure of the invention

[0011] The invention relates to a nail gun that can be operated with battery packs of different nominal voltages (N1, N2). R. 417989

[0012] - 2 -

[0013] For example, battery packs with a nominal voltage of 12 V (often also referred to as 12V batteries) and 21 V can be used. It should be noted that the actual voltage of a battery pack may deviate from the nominal voltage due to factors such as state of charge, aging, and temperature. The nail gun according to the invention is designed to operate with actual voltages within a tolerance range around the respective nominal voltage. For a 12 V battery (N1), this range may, for example, be between 9.7 V and 12.6 V, while for a 21 V battery (N2), the range may, for example, be between 16.2 V and 21 V. The nail gun is equipped with a control unit that measures the actual voltage of the connected battery pack and adjusts the operating parameters accordingly to ensure reliable operation within the specified voltage range.In particular, in the case of 12V battery packs, the invention is designed to take into account the actual voltage range of these batteries.

[0014] The core of the invention lies in the fact that the nail gun can accommodate and utilize several different power sources, thereby significantly increasing flexibility and efficiency in everyday work. In contrast to conventional nail guns, which are limited to a single battery type, the solution according to the invention offers several advantages.

[0015] The ability to use batteries with different voltage classes, such as 12V, 18V, and 36V, expands the nail gun's range of applications. The user can choose the optimal battery depending on their needs.

[0016] For lighter tasks and in hard-to-reach places, a smaller, lighter battery can be used to reduce the strain on the user and allow for less tiring work. R. 417989

[0017] - 3 -

[0018] For demanding tasks that require high performance and fast firing rates, a larger battery with a higher voltage can be used.

[0019] The second battery slot serves as a reliable backup power supply. If the first battery is depleted, the user can seamlessly switch to the second battery and continue working without interruption. This increases work efficiency and avoids downtime.

[0020] Switching between different batteries (e.g., from an 18V battery to a 12V battery) is quick and easy, ensuring uninterrupted work. Compatibility with existing battery systems further increases flexibility.

[0021] The option to choose between different batteries allows for optimal adaptation to the respective working conditions. This way, the user can always select the best balance between weight, performance, and runtime.

[0022] In summary, the invention offers a significant improvement over the prior art by combining flexibility, performance, and user-friendliness. The ability to use different batteries optimizes workflows and increases productivity.

[0023] Further advantages can be gleaned from the drawings and the character description.

[0024] Drawings

[0025] They show:

[0026] Figure 1a: a schematic representation of a drive-in device according to the invention with two interfaces and two batteries,

[0027] Figure 1b: the driving device according to the invention with two interfaces and two batteries in schematic representation, R. 417989

[0028] - 4 -

[0029] Figure 2: a schematic representation of an electronic circuit for detecting and controlling voltage sources.

[0030] Description

[0031] Figures 1a and 1b show a nail gun 10 that can be operated with at least two different voltage sources. The nail gun 10, hereinafter also referred to as a nail gun, has a housing 16 and at least two physically separate battery interfaces 12, 14, as shown in the figures. These interfaces 12, 14 are each designed for connecting a battery pack with a specific nominal voltage. The first interface 12 is used to connect a first battery pack 22. The second interface 14 is provided for a second battery pack 20. The battery packs 20, 22 each have a nominal voltage N1, N2, wherein the second nominal voltage N2 is different from the first nominal voltage N1. In a preferred embodiment, the first interface 12 is used to connect a first 18V battery pack 22. The second interface 14 is provided for a second 12V battery pack 20.However, the choice of nominal voltages is not limited to these examples; other nominal voltages are also possible.

[0032] Thus, the first battery interface 12 can be designed for a battery pack with a nominal voltage of 12V and the second battery interface 1 for a battery pack with a nominal voltage of 18V.

[0033] Thus, the first battery interface 12 can be designed for a battery pack with a nominal voltage of 12V and the second battery interface 1 for a battery pack with a nominal voltage of 36V. R. 417989

[0034] - 5 -

[0035] Thus, the first battery interface 12 can be designed for a battery pack with a nominal voltage of 36V and the second battery interface 14 for a battery pack with a nominal voltage of 18V.

[0036] The battery interfaces 12, 14 can be designed differently to allow the use of different battery types.

[0037] Figures 1a and 1b show examples of how these battery holders are positioned on the nail gun. Different battery types can be accommodated. A key feature of the invention is the mechanical locking mechanism of the battery interfaces (12, 1). This locking mechanism, shown in detail in Figure 1b, prevents the simultaneous connection of more than one battery pack. Connecting one of the battery packs 20 or 22 to one of the interfaces 12 or 1 physically blocks access to the other interface. For example, if the first battery 20 is connected, it physically blocks access for the second battery 22. Figure 1b illustrates this mechanism. Inserting one battery prevents the simultaneous insertion of another battery or another power source.

[0038] This mechanism increases safety and prevents the incorrect simultaneous operation of multiple battery packs, which could lead to damage to the electronics or other hazards. The mechanical locking mechanism provides a simple and reliable method to prevent the simultaneous connection of multiple battery packs and thus avoid incorrect operation. The physical separation of battery interfaces 12 and 14 further contributes to this safety feature. The chosen design allows for easy and intuitive battery pack replacement. Depending on the requirements and task, the user can select the optimal battery, choosing either a lighter weight (12V battery) or... R. 417989

[0039] - 6 -

[0040] A longer runtime (18V battery) is preferable. The improved flexibility in the power supply enables an increase in the efficiency and user-friendliness of the driving tool (10).

[0041] The following describes some possible embodiments in detail: The embodiment shown in Figure 1b features two separate battery interfaces integrated into the nail gun housing. The interfaces could, for example, be designed as recesses or indentations in the housing into which the battery packs are inserted. The mechanical locking mechanism can be implemented in various ways.

[0042] For example, a spring mechanism could be used to securely anchor the battery pack in the interface. Inserting a battery pack into one interface could simultaneously activate a locking mechanism that blocks access to the second interface. This could be achieved, for example, with a movable locking bar or a spring-loaded flap.

[0043] A locking mechanism with multiple locking points could ensure a secure and precise connection between the battery pack and the interface. The design of the locking points could be chosen so that only one battery pack can be used per interface at a time. Locking the battery pack into one of the locking points could simultaneously trigger a blockage of the second slot.

[0044] A rotary mechanism could be used to lock the battery pack in the interface. The rotation could simultaneously lock the second slot.

[0045] A modular approach allows the battery interfaces to be adapted to different battery sizes and shapes. SeparateR. 417989

[0046] - 7 -

[0047] Interface modules could be designed that can be easily inserted into and removed from the nail gun housing. Each module could be specifically designed for a particular battery type and incorporate the corresponding mechanical locking mechanism. The modules are easy to replace, thus allowing for adaptation to different battery systems.

[0048] The choice of materials for the battery interfaces plays a crucial role in robustness, durability, and safety. Materials should be used that exhibit high strength, wear resistance, and chemical resistance.

[0049] Thus, the invention offers a nail gun with the flexibility to use various power sources without requiring modifications or adapters. At the same time, the mechanical locking mechanism ensures safety by preventing the simultaneous connection of multiple power sources, which could lead to damage.

[0050] In another embodiment, the detection and control of the voltage sources is carried out electronically, as shown in Figure 2.

[0051] Instead of mechanical interfaces for all voltage sources, separate inputs and outputs (I / O) are used on the tool's printed circuit board (PCBA) for each battery type (e.g., 12V and 18V), as schematically shown in Figure 2. These I / O ports are each for the "+" contacts.

[0052]

[0053] The "NTC" (Negative Temperature Coefficient, a thermistor for temperature measurement) and the "Tool ID" are provided. This configuration enables the unique identification of the connected battery pack, regardless of its physical form. The use of the "Tool ID" as a unique identifier is particularly advantageous because it allows for precise identification of the battery type and its specific characteristics.

[0054] The nail gun is primarily designed for operation with a lower nominal voltage, in this example 12V. If a battery pack with a higher voltage is used, the following applies: 417989

[0055] - 8 -

[0056] When connected to a nominal voltage, e.g., 18V, an integrated buck converter reduces the input voltage to the required operating voltage of 12V. This buck converter is a switching regulator that efficiently reduces the input voltage using a pulse-width modulation (PWM) controlled switching element and an inductor. The inductor serves to store energy and smooth the output voltage. The PWM control optimizes efficiency and minimizes energy losses during the conversion process.

[0057] Separate control of the "+", "NTC", and "Tool ID" signals via dedicated I / O ports enables precise and reliable monitoring of the battery packs. The "Tool ID" is read by the tool's control unit to identify the connected battery type and activate or deactivate the corresponding voltage regulation. In the case of a 12V battery pack, the step-down converter is not required and is deactivated, while with an 18V battery pack, the voltage reduction occurs automatically. The invention is designed to be compatible with existing battery systems by using the common interface signals "+", "Tool ID", "NTC", and "Charger ID". This compatibility with established standards significantly expands the tool's application possibilities.The invention also includes an internal control unit (not explicitly shown) that detects the connected battery type and its actual voltage and adjusts the operating parameters of the drive unit (10) accordingly. This enables reliable operation even when the actual voltage deviates from the nominal voltage of the battery pack. Optionally, a step-down converter can be integrated to regulate the battery pack voltage to an optimal operating voltage for the device, if necessary. This is particularly relevant if a battery pack with a higher voltage than the optimal operating voltage of the device is connected.

Claims

R. 417989 - 9 - Claims 1. Driving device (10), in particular nail gun, characterized by: * a first battery interface (12) for electrical connection with a first battery pack (22) with a first nominal voltage (N1); * a second battery interface (1 ) for electrical connection with a second battery pack (20) with a second nominal voltage (N2) that is different from the first nominal voltage (N1); * wherein the first and second battery interfaces (12, 1 ) are arranged such that only one battery pack (20, 22) can be connected to the nail gun (10) at the same time; * and wherein the driving device (10) is configured to operate with an actual voltage of the connected battery pack (20, 22) which is within a specified range around the respective nominal voltage (N1, N2).

2. Driving device (10) according to claim 1 , characterized in that the first and second battery interfaces (12, 1 ) are mechanically coupled in such a way that attaching a first battery pack (20) to the first battery interface (1 ) prevents attaching a second battery pack (22) to the second battery interface (12), and vice versa.

3. Driving device (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that driving device (10) comprises a control unit that detects the connected battery pack (20, 22) and adjusts the operating parameters of the nail gun according to the nominal voltage of the connected battery pack.

4. Driving device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the driving device (10) comprises a step-down converter, R. 417989 - 10 - which reduces the voltage of the connected battery pack (20, 22) to a predetermined operating voltage.

5. Driving device according to claim 4, characterized in that the step-down converter is controlled by pulse width modulation (PWM).

6. Driving device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first battery interface (12) is designed for a battery pack (20) with a nominal voltage of 12V and the second battery interface (1) is designed for a battery pack (22) with a nominal voltage of 18V.

7. Method for operating a driving device (10), in particular a nail gun with several battery packs (20, 22) of different nominal voltage (N1, N2), characterized by the following steps: * Providing a driving device (10) with a first battery interface (12) for a first battery pack (20) with a first nominal voltage (N1) and a second battery interface (1) for a second battery pack (22) with a second nominal voltage (N2) that is different from the first nominal voltage (N1), wherein the first and second battery interfaces (20, 22) are arranged such that only one battery pack (12, 14) can be connected to the driving device (10) at any one time; * Connecting one of the battery packs (20, 22) to the corresponding battery interface (12, 14); * Detection of the connected battery pack (20, 22) and measurement of the actual voltage of the connected battery pack by a control unit of the drive device (10); * Adjusting the operating parameters of the drive unit (10) depending on the measured actual voltage of the connected battery pack.

8. Method according to claim 7, characterized in that when connecting a battery pack (20, 22) to one of the battery interfaces (12, 1) mechanically R. 417989 - 11 - Connecting another battery pack to the other battery interface is prevented.

9. Method according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that when connecting a battery pack (20, 22) with a higher nominal voltage than the operating voltage of the driving device (10), the voltage of the battery pack is reduced to the operating voltage of the nail gun by means of a step-down converter.

10. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first battery interface (20) is provided for a battery pack with a nominal voltage of 12V and the second battery interface (22) is provided for a battery pack with a nominal voltage of 18V.

Images