Depth and angle sensor attachment for a power tool

US11845163B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation · US

Inventors

• Gareth Mueckl · Milwaukee, US
• Tauhira Hoossainy · Milwaukee, US
• Leo Mikat-Stevens · Milwaukee, US
• Logan Blair · Wheaton, US
• Jake McDermott · Tinley Park, US
• Jonathon R. Nord · Bloomington, US
• Jared Shurtleff · Elburn, US
• Joshua Kundinger · Wauwatosa, US
• John von Helms, JR. · Ingleside, US
• Nicholas Dobernig · West Allis, US
• Matthew Post · Ruston, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Sep 30, 2020
• Grant date: Dec 19, 2023
• Expiry date: Sep 30, 2040

Classification

• Technology area (CPC G): Physics
• CPC primary: G01S15/42
• WIPO field: Measurement
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

A power tool including a sensor attachment, a housing, a motor, and a power tool controller. The power tool controller is operable or configured to control power provided to the motor. The sensor attachment is coupled to the power tool's housing and includes a first non-contact sensor and a sensor controller. The sensor controller receives signals from the first non-contact sensor related to distance to a work surface and determines a fastener depth based on the signals from the first non-contact sensor. If the fastener depth is greater than or equal to a desired fastener depth, the sensor controller generates and sends a control signal to the power tool controller. In response, the power tool controller turns off or cuts power to the motor.