CLIP-ON GUARD ASSEMBLY FOR TOOL DEVICES

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS

Any and all applications for which a foreign or domestic priority claim is identified in the Application Data Sheet as filed with the present application are incorporated by reference under 37 CFR 1.57 and made a part of this specification. This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/676,076, filed Jul. 26, 2025, entitled CLIP-ON GUARD ASSEMBLY FOR TOOL DEVICES, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes.

FIELD

The present disclosure generally relates to guard assemblies for tool devices and, more particularly, to a clip-on guard assembly configured for detachable mounting to existing tool guards to extend or modify their shielding coverage.

BACKGROUND

Guard assemblies are utilized to provide shielding during the use of power or other tools. Different operations often need distinct guard configurations, which may vary in size or design. Switching between different guards can be cumbersome and time-consuming.

SUMMARY

Certain illustrative examples are described in the following numbered clauses:

• • Clause 1. A clip-on guard assembly for a tool guard, comprising:
    • a guard cover configured to provide shielding for a tool;
    • first and second fasteners disposed on opposite ends of the guard cover;
    • a lever pivotably mounted to the guard cover, the lever operably associated with the second fastener, such that pivoting the lever moves the second fastener relative to an end of the tool guard; and
    • a locking member configured to releasably lock the lever in place when the lever reaches a locking position corresponding to engagement of the second fastener with the end of the tool guard, the locking member being self-activating when the lever moves into the locking position, and including an actuator configured to be manually operated by an operator to release the locking member from the locking position.
  • Clause 2. The clip-on guard assembly of clause 1, wherein the locking member is configured to provide a two-step unlocking process, the two-step unlocking process comprising:
    • a first step where the actuator is manually activated to disengage the locking member from a hook projecting from the guard cover, and
    • a second step where the lever is pivoted away from the locking position to move the second fastener out of engagement with the end of the tool guard.
  • Clause 3. The clip-on guard assembly of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the locking member comprises a spring mechanism that biases the locking member into engagement with a hook projecting from the guard cover upon the lever reaching the locking position.
  • Clause 4. The clip-on guard assembly of Clause 3, wherein to release the locking member from the locking position, the actuator is configured to be manually operated by an operator to overcome a bias of the spring mechanism.
  • Clause 5. The clip-on guard assembly of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising a pivot pin coupled to the guard cover, wherein the lever is pivotably mounted on the pivot pin and configured to pivot about the pivot pin.
  • Clause 6. The clip-on guard assembly of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the second fastener is configured to be moved along an outer periphery of the guard cover responsive to a pivoting of the lever.
  • Clause 7. The clip-on guard assembly of any of the preceding clauses, wherein attachment of the clip-on guard assembly to the tool guard converts the tool guard from a type A guard to a type B guard.
  • Clause 8. The clip-on guard assembly of any of the preceding clauses, wherein attachment of the clip-on guard assembly to the tool guard converts the tool guard from a configuration that covers only an upper surface and periphery of the tool to a configuration that cover approximately half of the tool on its upper and lower surfaces.
  • Clause 9. The clip-on guard assembly of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the lever is configured to pivot in a direction opposite to a direction of movement of the second fastener.
  • Clause 10. The clip-on guard assembly of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the actuator is a push button configured to be pressed by the operator to release the locking member.
  • Clause 11. The clip-on guard assembly of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the second fastener is a sliding fastener that moves linearly along the guard cover when moved responsive to pivoting of the lever.
  • Clause 12. The clip-on guard assembly of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the lever includes a handle portion configured to be grasped by the operator to pivot the lever.
  • Clause 13. The clip-on guard assembly of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the tool is at least one of a grinding wheel, sanding disc, cutting disc, polishing wheel, wire brush, buffing wheel, or circular saw blade.
  • Clause 14. The clip-on guard assembly of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the tool guard provides shielding for at least a portion of a working edge and at least a portion of a first side surface of a dynamic working tool of the tool, and wherein the guard cover is attachable to the tool guard in:
    • a first configuration, wherein the first fastener couples to a first end of the tool guard and the second fastener couples to a second end of the tool guard such that the clip-on guard assembly provides shielding for at least a portion of an opposite second side surface of the dynamic working tool; and
    • a second configuration, wherein the first fastener couples to the second end of the tool guard and the second fastener couples to the first end of the tool guard, such that the clip-on guard assembly does not provide shielding for the opposite second side surface of the dynamic working tool.
  • Clause 15. The clip-on guard assembly of Clause 14, wherein the clip-on guard assembly includes an opening in the guard cover configured to align with an indicator on the tool guard, such that the indicator is visible when the clip-on guard assembly is in the second configuration and the indicator is at least partially obscured by the clip-on guard assembly when the clip-on guard assembly is in the first configuration.
  • Clause 16. The clip-on guard assembly of Clause 15, wherein the indicator provides a visual cue regarding a current state of the tool.
  • Clause 17. A guard assembly, comprising: a tool guard configured to cover a portion of a tool; and
    • a clip-on guard assembly for removably attaching to the tool guard, the clip-on guard assembly comprising:
    • a guard cover configured to cover a portion of the tool,
    • first and second fasteners disposed on opposite ends of the guard cover and configured to attach to first and second ends, respectively, of the tool guard,
    • a lever pivotably mounted to the guard cover, the lever operably associated with the second fastener, such that pivoting the lever moves the second fastener relative to the second end of the tool guard, and
    • a locking member configured to releasably lock the lever in place when the lever reaches a locking position corresponding to engagement of the second fastener with the second end of the tool guard, the locking member being self-activating when the lever moves into the locking position, and including an actuator configured to be manually operated by an operator to release the locking member from the locking position.
  • Clause 18. The guard assembly of Clause 17, wherein the locking member is configured to provide a two-step unlocking process, the two-step unlocking process comprising:
    • a first step where the actuator is manually activated to disengage the locking member from a hook projecting from the guard cover, and
    • a second step where the lever is pivoted away from the locking position to move the second fastener out of engagement with the second end of the tool guard.
  • Clause 19. The guard assembly of any of Clauses 17 or 18, wherein the locking member comprises a spring mechanism that biases the locking member into engagement with a hook projecting from the guard cover upon the lever reaching the locking position, and wherein to release the locking member from the locking position, the actuator is configured to be manually operated by an operator to overcome a bias of the spring mechanism.
  • Clause 20. The guard assembly of any of Clauses 17 to 19, wherein the second fastener is configured to be moved along an outer periphery of the guard cover responsive to a pivoting of the lever.
  • Clause 21. The guard assembly of any of Clauses 17 to 20, wherein attachment of the clip-on guard assembly to the tool guard converts the tool guard from a type 27 guard to a type 1 guard.
  • Clause 22. The guard assembly of any of Clauses 17 to 21, wherein the lever is configured to pivot in a direction opposite to a direction of movement of the second fastener.
  • Clause 23. The guard assembly of any of Clauses 17 to 22, wherein the tool is at least one of a grinding wheel, sanding disc, cutting disc, polishing wheel, wire brush, buffing wheel, or circular saw blade.
  • Clause 24. The guard assembly of any of Clauses 17 to 23, wherein the tool guard provides shielding for at least a portion of a working edge and at least a portion of a first side surface of a dynamic working tool of the tool, and wherein the guard cover is attachable to the tool guard in:
    • a first configuration, wherein the first fastener couples to a first end of the tool guard and the second fastener couples to a second end of the tool guard such that the clip-on guard assembly provides shielding for at least a portion of an opposite second side surface of the dynamic working tool; and
    • a second configuration, wherein the first fastener couples to the second end of the tool guard and the second fastener couples to the first end of the tool guard, such that the clip-on guard assembly does not provide shielding for the opposite second side surface of the dynamic working tool.
  • Clause 25. The guard assembly of Clause 24, wherein the clip-on guard assembly includes an opening in the guard cover configured to align with an indicator on the tool guard, such that the indicator is visible when the clip-on guard assembly is in the second configuration and the indicator is at least partially obscured by the clip-on guard assembly when the clip-on guard assembly is in the first configuration.
  • Clause 26. The guard assembly of Clause 25, wherein the indicator provides a visual cue regarding a current state of the tool.
  • Clause 27. A guard assembly, comprising:
    • a tool guard configured to provide shielding for at least a portion of a working edge and at least a portion of a first side surface of a dynamic working tool of a tool; and
    • a clip-on guard assembly for removably attaching to the tool guard, the clip-on guard assembly comprising:
    • a guard cover configured to cover a portion of the tool,
    • first and second fasteners disposed on opposite ends of the guard cover and configured to attach to first and second ends of the tool guard, wherein the guard cover is attachable to the tool guard in:
    • a first configuration, wherein the first fastener couples to the first end of the tool guard and the second fastener couples to the second end of the tool guard such that the guard cover of the clip-on guard assembly provides shielding for at least a portion of a second side surface of the dynamic working tool, wherein the second side surface is opposite the first side surface, and
    • a second configuration, wherein the first fastener couples to the second end of the tool guard and the second fastener couples to the first end of the tool guard, such that the clip-on guard assembly does not provide shielding for the opposite second side surface of the dynamic working tool.
  • Clause 28. The guard assembly of Clause 27, wherein the clip-on guard assembly further comprises a lever pivotably mounted to the guard cover, the lever operably associated with the second fastener, such that pivoting the lever moves the second fastener relative to the second end of the tool guard.
  • Clause 29. The guard assembly of Clause 28, wherein the clip-on guard assembly further comprises a locking member configured to releasably lock the lever in place when the lever reaches a locking position corresponding to engagement of the second fastener with the second end of the tool guard, the locking member being self-activating when the lever moves into the locking position, and including an actuator configured to be manually operated by an operator to release the locking member from the locking position.
  • Clause 30. The guard assembly of Clause 29, wherein the locking member is configured to provide a two-step unlocking process, the two-step unlocking process comprising:
    • a first step where the actuator is manually activated to disengage the locking member from a hook projecting from the guard cover, and
    • a second step where the lever is pivoted away from the locking position to move the second fastener out of engagement with the second end of the tool guard.
  • Clause 31. The guard assembly of Clause 29, wherein the locking member comprises a spring mechanism that biases the locking member into engagement with a hook projecting from the guard cover upon the lever reaching the locking position, and wherein to release the locking member from the locking position, the actuator is configured to be manually operated by an operator to overcome a bias of the spring mechanism.
  • Clause 32. The guard assembly of Clause 28, wherein the second fastener is configured to be moved along an outer periphery of the guard cover responsive to a pivoting of the lever.
  • Clause 33. The guard assembly of Clause 32, wherein attachment of the clip-on guard assembly to the tool guard converts the tool guard from a type 27 guard to a type 1 guard.
  • Clause 34. The guard assembly of Clause 28, wherein the lever is configured to pivot in a direction opposite to a direction of movement of the second fastener.
  • Clause 35. The guard assembly of Clause 27, wherein the tool is at least one of a grinding wheel, sanding disc, cutting disc, polishing wheel, wire brush, buffing wheel, or circular saw blade.
  • Clause 36. The guard assembly of Clause 27, wherein the clip-on guard assembly includes an opening in the guard cover configured to align with an indicator on the tool guard, such that the indicator is visible when the clip-on guard assembly is in the second configuration and the indicator is at least partially obscured by the clip-on guard assembly when the clip-on guard assembly is in the first configuration.
  • Clause 37. The guard assembly of Clause 36, wherein the indicator provides a visual cue regarding a current state of the tool.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Throughout the drawings, reference numbers can be re-used to indicate correspondence between referenced elements. The drawings are provided to illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure and do not limit the scope thereof.

FIG. 1 illustrates a handheld tool device including an example guard assembly in accordance with the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 illustrates an exploded view of the guard assembly of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 illustrates an exploded view of the lever of the guard assembly of FIG. 1.

FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrate front and back views, respectively, of the clip-on guard assembly in an open position on the tool guard but not yet secured.

FIGS. 4C and 4D illustrate front and back views, respectively, of the clip-on guard assembly in a closed position, where it is secured to the tool guard.

FIGS. 5A-5C illustrate an example of a self-activating locking process for the lever of the guard assembly of FIG. 1.

FIGS. 6A-6C illustrate an example of an unlocking process for the lever of the guard assembly of FIG. 1.

FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate opposite sides of an example clip-on guard assembly in the active configuration.

FIGS. 7C and 7D illustrate opposite sides of an example clip-on guard assembly in the inactive configuration.

FIG. 8A illustrates an example clip-on guard assembly in the inactive configuration.

FIGS. 8B and 8C illustrate opposite sides of an example clip-on guard assembly in the active configuration.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Although certain embodiments and examples are described below, it will be understood that the disclosure extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments and/or uses and obvious modifications and equivalents thereof. Thus, it is intended that the scope of the disclosure herein disclosed should not be limited by any particular embodiments described below.

The shielding of operators using power tools can be an important consideration across various industries. Traditional tool guards are designed to provide shielding during tool operation, but different tasks can demand different guard configurations. These configurations can vary significantly in size and coverage, potentially leading to inconvenience and inefficiency when switching between guards.

Some inventive concepts described herein can improve the usability of power tools by introducing a clip-on guard assembly. The clip-on guard assembly can be detachably mounted to existing tool guards, providing an extended or modified shielding coverage. The clip-on design can enable quick and secure attachment and removal, allowing operators to easily adapt their tools to different shielding requirements without the need for multiple dedicated guards.

Some inventive concepts described herein can relate to the mechanisms for attaching and securing the clip-on guard assembly to the existing tool guard. For example, the clip-on guard assembly can include a guard cover that extends the shielding coverage of the tool, first and second fasteners disposed on opposite ends of the guard cover, a lever pivotably mounted to the guard cover, and a locking member configured to releasably lock the lever in place when the guard is in use. In operation, the first fastener can be fitted onto one end of the existing tool guard. Pivoting the lever can move the second fastener into engagement with the opposite end of the existing tool guard, allowing an operator to securely attach the guard cover to the existing tool guard, thereby providing extended or modified shielding coverage of the existing tool guard. Pivoting the lever in the opposite direction can move the second fastener away, allowing the guard cover to detach from the existing tool guard.

Some inventive concepts described herein include a clip-on guard assembly comprising a self-activating locking mechanism that automatically engages when the lever is pivoted into the locking position, thereby securing the guard cover in place relative to the existing tool guard. In certain embodiments, the self-activating lock can employ a two-step unlocking method to enhance shielding. This method can include an actuator that must first be manually operated to disengage the locking mechanism from a hook projecting from the guard cover. Upon disengagement, the lever can be pivoted in the opposite direction to move the second fastener away, thereby allowing the guard cover to detach from the existing tool guard. This two-step process inhibits removal of the clip-on guard assembly, thereby improving shielding coverage.

The clip-on guard assembly described herein can be designed to fit a variety of power tools, including, but not limited to, grinders, sanding devices, cutting tools, polishing tools, wire brushes, buffing tools, or saw tools. By providing a solution for enhancing shielding, the inventive concepts described herein can represent a significant improvement in the field of power tool shielding equipment. The disclosed techniques can allow operators to efficiently manage tool guards, ensuring that the appropriate level of shielding is available while maintaining operational flexibility.

Some inventive concepts described herein can provide an advancement in the field of tool shielding, for example in the case of adapting shielding measures to meet various operational needs. By enabling quick and secure modification of tool guards, the disclosed clip-on guard assembly can improve the practicality of using power tools in diverse settings.

Example Power Tool

FIG. 1 illustrates a handheld tool device 100 including an example guard assembly 200 in accordance with the present disclosure. The handheld tool device 100 includes a housing 102 with a forward gear case 104, a field case 106 housing a motor, and a handle assembly 108 oriented rearward of the field case 106, and a dynamic working tool 110, shown here as a disc. The guard assembly 200 provides shielding coverage relative to the dynamic working tool 110 during operation, such as shielding an operator from debris (e.g., sparks, particles) generated during use. The guard assembly 200 includes a clip-on guard assembly 220 attached to a tool guard 210, enhancing a shielding coverage of the tool guard 210.

In some cases, the tool guard 210 provides shielding for at least a portion of a working edge and at least a portion of a first side surface of a dynamic working tool 110 of the handheld tool device 100. In some cases, the clip-on guard assembly 220 is attachable to the tool guard 210 in either a first configuration (sometimes referred to as a “cutting” configuration), or a second configuration (sometimes referred to as a “storage” configuration). In the first configuration, a first fastener of the clip-on guard assembly 220 couples to a first end of the tool guard and a second fastener of the clip-on guard assembly 220 couples to a second end of the tool guard such that the clip-on guard assembly 220 provides shielding for at least a portion of an opposite second side surface of the dynamic working tool 110. In the second configuration, the first fastener couples to the second end of the tool guard 210 and the second fastener couples to the first end of the tool guard 210, such that the lip-on guard assembly 220 does not provide shielding for the opposite second side surface of the dynamic working tool 110.

Although illustrated as a grinder, it will be appreciated that the handheld tool device 100 need not be limited to such a device. For example, the handheld tool device 100 can include, but is not limited to, a hand-held powered drill, tapper, fastener driver, horizontal grinder, vertical grinder, disc sander, belt sander, reciprocating saw, saber saw, scroll saw, jig saw, sanding devices, cutting tools, polishing tools, wire brushes, buffing tools, or saw tools.

Example Guard Assembly

FIG. 2 illustrates an exploded view of the guard assembly 200 of FIG. 1. The guard assembly 200 includes a tool guard 210 and a clip-on guard assembly 220. The clip-on guard assembly 220 can be configured to attach to the tool guard 210 to provide extra or different shielding for the tool and/or the operator of the tool. In some cases, attaching the clip-on guard assembly 220 to the tool guard 210 can effectively change the type of guard of the tool guard 210. As an example, the tool guard 210 may be a type B guard that covers only half of the upper surface and the periphery of the dynamic working tool, while leaving the lower surface of the dynamic working tool uncovered. The clip-on guard assembly 220 can provide additional shielding such that collectively, with the tool guard 210, they form a type C guard, which provides complete of the upper and lower surfaces of the dynamic working tool. As another example, the tool guard 210 can be a type A guard that only partially covers a cup-shaped dynamic working tool, and the clip-on guard assembly 220 can provide additional shielding such that collectively, with the tool guard 210, they form a type B or type C guard. It will be appreciated that shape, size, and/or coverage of the tool guard 210 and/or the clip-on guard assembly 220 can vary across embodiments.

The clip-on guard assembly includes a guard cover 222, a first fastener 224, a second fastener 226, a spring 228, and a lever 230. The first fastener 224 and the second fastener 226 can be disposed on opposite ends of the guard cover 222 and can each provide an interface with which to engage the tool guard 210. For example, the first fastener 224 can be configured to engage with a first end 212 of the tool guard 210, and the second fastener 226 can be configured to engage with a second end 214 of the tool guard 210. In some cases, the first fastener 224 and/or the second fastener 226 can be implemented as a hook, latch, or clamp mechanism, allowing it to securely attach to a respective end of the tool guard 210. In some cases, the first fastener 224 and/or the second fastener 226 can be configured to snap into place or be tightened (e.g., using a screw or bolt) to ensure a firm connection.

In some implementations, the spring 228 can be a wire form spring. One end of the spring 228 can be connected to the lever 230 via mounting holes 236, forming a first pivot point 231 about which the lever 230 can pivot. The other end of the spring 228 can be connected to the guard cover 222, forming a second pivot point 233 about which the spring 228 itself can pivot. This dual pivot point configuration can provide controlled and flexible movement of the lever 230 and the second fastener 226.

The lever 230 can be pivotably mounted to the spring 228 at the first pivot point 231. The first pivot point 231 can be located near the middle of the lever 230, although the position may vary in different implementations. The proximal end 234 of the lever 230 can be connected to the second fastener 226. For example, in some cases, a cylindrical rod 229 can be connected to the proximal end 234 of the lever 230, with the second fastener 226 being connected to the cylindrical rod 229. Such a configuration rotatably mounts the second fastener 226 to the proximal end 234 of the lever 230, allowing for the rotational movement of the second fastener 226.

The second fastener 226 can be movable and operably associated with the lever 230, allowing it to transition into or out of engagement with the tool guard 210 when the lever 230 is pivoted. For example, the second fastener 226 can be coupled to the proximal end 234 of the lever 230, allowing the second fastener 226 to move in conjunction with the pivoting of the lever 230. This configuration allows the engagement interface 227 of the second fastener 226 to transition into or out of engagement with the second end 214 of the tool guard 210 when the lever 230 is pivoted. For example, the second fastener 226 can slide along a predefined path on the outer periphery of the guard cover 222, guided by the structure of the tool guard 210. As shown, in some cases, the second fastener 226 can be implemented as an elongated member that extends from the proximal end 234 of the lever 230 to the engagement interface 227 for engaging with the tool guard 210.

The lever 230 can be configured to pivot in a direction opposite to a direction of sliding movement of the second fastener 226. For example, as the lever 230 rotates such that a distal end 232 of the lever 230 moves closer to the second end 214 of the tool guard 210, the proximal end 234 of the lever 230 moves further from the second end 214 of the tool guard 210, pulling the engagement interface 227 of the second fastener 226 towards the second end 214 of the tool guard 210 for engagement. The movement of the second fastener 226 is thus coordinated with the pivoting of the lever 230. Conversely, when the lever 230 is pivoted in the opposite direction, the second fastener 226 can move away from and/or disengage from the tool guard 210, permitting removal or adjustment of the guard cover 222.

FIG. 3 illustrates an exploded view of the lever 230 of the guard assembly 200 of FIG. 1. The lever 230 can include a locking member 334 and a biasing member 332. In some implementations, the locking member 334 and/or the biasing member 332 are not part of the lever but are coupled to it.

The locking member 334 is configured to releasably lock the lever 230 in place when the lever 230 reaches a locking position corresponding to the engagement of the second fastener 226 with the second end 214 of the tool guard 210. In some cases, the locking member 334 is self-activating, facilitated by the biasing member 332. For example, the biasing member 332 can bias an engagement member 337 of the locking member 334 into engagement with a latch (e.g., latch 502 of FIG. 5) projecting from the guard cover 222 upon the lever 230 reaching the locking position. In some cases, the locking member 334 can include an actuator 335 that can be manually operated to release the locking member 334 from the locking position. For example, the actuator 335 can be a pull tab or push button that allows the operator to overcome the biasing force of the biasing member 332 and move the locking member 334 out of the locking position.

FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrate front and back views, respectively, of the clip-on guard assembly 220 in an open position on the tool guard 210 but not yet secured. In these figures, the lever 230 is rotated in a first direction 402 such that the second fastener 226 is not engaged with the second end 214 of the tool guard 210. This configuration can represent an initial step in the attachment process, where the clip-on guard assembly 220 is positioned on the tool guard 210 before securing. The engagement interface 227 on the second fastener 226 is visible and not yet engaged with the corresponding part of the tool guard 210. Similarly, the locking member 334 is not yet engaged.

FIGS. 4C and 4D illustrate front and back views, respectively, of the clip-on guard assembly 220 in a closed position, where it is secured to the tool guard 210. In these figures, the lever 230 is rotated in a second direction 404, opposite the first direction 402, pulling the second fastener 226 into engagement with the second end 214 of the tool guard 210. The engagement interface 227 on the second fastener 226 engages the corresponding part of the tool guard 210, effectively securing the clip-on guard assembly 220 in place. This configuration can be representative of a final step in the attachment process, ensuring that the clip-on guard assembly 220 is tightly fixed to the tool guard 210.

The transition from the open position (FIGS. 4A and 4B) to the closed position (FIGS. 4C and 4D) can include rotating the lever 230, which moves the second fastener 226 along a predefined path on the guard cover 222. In the open position, the clip-on guard assembly 220 can be placed onto the tool guard 210, and then the lever 230 can be rotated to move the second fastener 226 into engagement, securing the clip-on guard assembly 220 to the tool guard 210. This operation can provide a quick and efficient method to attach and secure the clip-on guard assembly 220 to the tool guard 210.

FIGS. 5A-5C and 6A-6C illustrate example locking and unlocking routines for the clip-on guard assembly 220 in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 5A-5C illustrate an example of a self-activating locking process for the lever 230. The locking member 334 is configured to automatically engage when the lever 230 reaches the locking position. FIG. 5A shows a stage where the lever 230 pivots, causing the second fastener 226 to transition towards engagement with the second end 214 of the tool guard 210. As the lever 230 pivots, the locking member 334 moves closer to the latch 502 projecting from the guard cover 222. The latch 502 is angled to facilitate the engagement with the locking member 334. FIG. 5B depicts a stage where a hole 504 in the locking member 334 aligns with the latch 502, as the lever 230 continues to pivot down. FIG. 5C shows a locked position, where the hole 504 of the locking member 334 engages with the latch 502, securing the lever 230 in place. In this configuration the latch 502 fits within the hole 504. Further, the biasing member 332 biases the locking member 334 towards the latch 502, inhibiting the lever 230 from moving once it is engaged.

FIGS. 6A-6C illustrate an example of an unlocking process for the lever 230. FIG. 6A shows a stage where the biasing member 332 biases the locking member 334 towards the latch 502. FIG. 6B depicts a stage where an actuator 335 is manually activated to disengage the locking member 334 from the latch 502. The locking member 334 begins to move away from the latch 502, facilitated by the actuator 335, allowing the lever 230 to be pivoted. FIG. 6C shows a stage where the lever 230 is pivoted away from the locking position, moving the locking member 334 off the plane of the latch 502. This process allows the clip-on guard assembly 220 to be removed or adjusted. In some cases, the locking member 334 is configured to provide a two-step unlocking process: a first step where the actuator 335 is manually activated (e.g., pressed) to disengage the locking member from the latch 502 projecting from the guard cover, and a second step where the lever 230 is pivoted away from the locking position to move the latch 502 out of the hole 504 defined by the locking member 334.

Storage

In certain applications, it may not be desirable to utilize the clip-on guard assembly 220 continuously. For example, for non-operational periods or periods over which the tool guard 210 can provide sufficient shielding for the application without the clip-on guard assembly 220, the clip-on guard assembly 220 may not be needed. Accordingly, in some cases, the clip-on guard assembly 220 is storable by being clipped onto the tool guard 210 in a particular configuration. For example, the clip-on guard assembly 220 can have at least two distinct configurations: an active configuration, in which the clip-on guard assembly 220 provides supplemental shielding in addition to that provided by the tool guard 210, and an inactive configuration, in which the clip-on guard assembly 220 is attached to the tool guard 210 without providing additional shielding. The inactive or “storage” configuration can secure the clip-on guard assembly 220 when it is not in use, thereby reducing a likelihood of its misplacement. Further, the inactive configuration can allow the clip-on guard assembly 220 to remain readily accessible and available for reattachment in the active configuration as needed.

FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate opposite sides of the clip-on guard assembly 220 in the active configuration. In the active configuration, the first fastener 224 is coupled to the first end 212 of the tool guard 210 and the second fastener 226 is coupled to a second end 214 of the tool guard 210, such that the clip-on guard 220 can provide shielding for at least a portion of the opposite second side surface (e.g., a bottom surface) of the dynamic working tool.

FIGS. 7C and 7D illustrate opposite sides of the clip-on guard assembly 220 in the inactive configuration. In the inactive configuration, the first fastener 224 is coupled to the second end 214 of the tool guard 210 and the second fastener 226 is coupled to the first end 212 of the tool guard 210, such that the clip-on guard 220 does not provide shielding for the opposite second side surface of the dynamic working tool.

In some cases, the transition between the first and second configurations can be achieved by flipping the clip-on guard assembly 220. This means that, in some cases, the clip-on guard assembly 220 can be easily repositioned from the active configuration to the inactive configuration, and vice versa, by simply rotating or flipping it over. Such a flipping action allows for an easy transition between the configurations, allowing the clip-on guard assembly 220 to be conveniently stored on the tool guard 210 when not in use.

Indicator

In some cases, an indicator can be integrated into the tool guard 210 to provide a visual cue regarding the current operational state of the tool. For example, the indicator can improve user safety by clearly signaling whether the tool is configured for general use with the tool guard 210 or for specific tasks with the clip-on guard assembly 220.

In some cases, the indicator can serve as a warning, such as a warning not to use the tool in a particular way. Consider a scenario in which the clip-on guard provides additional shielding needed for cutting operations. In this case, the indicator may serve different purposes based on the configuration. In the inactive configuration, the indicator can be visible through an opening in the clip-on guard assembly 220, displaying a warning such as “do not cut” or “no cutting.” Conversely, in the active configuration, the clip-on guard assembly 220 can obscure the warning indicator, signaling that the tool is ready for use (e.g., cutting).

As another example, in some cases, the indicator can serve to confirm that the tool is properly configured for use. For instance, the indicator may be visible in the active configuration, displaying a message such as “ready for use” or “safe to operate,” providing reassurance that the tool is correctly set up and safe to proceed with the operation. In some such cases, in the inactive configuration, the indicator can be at least partially obscured by the clip-on guard assembly 220, signaling that the tool is not ready for use.

FIG. 8A illustrates the clip-on guard assembly 220 in the inactive configuration. In the inactive configuration, the indicator 810 on the tool guard 210 is visible through an opening 820 in the guard cover, indicating that the tool is not configured for the specific use allowed by the clip-on guard assembly 220. As shown, in inactive configuration, the shielding portion of the clip-on guard 220 overlaps with the shielding portion of the guard assembly so that the clip-on guard 220 does not provide additional shielding for the tool beyond what is provided by the tool guard 210.

FIGS. 8B and 8C illustrate opposite sides of the clip-on guard assembly 220 in the active configuration. In the active configuration, the indicator on the tool guard 210 is at least partially obscured by the clip-on guard 220, indicating that the tool is configured for active use. In some cases, in the active configuration, the indicator on the tool guard 210 does not align with the opening 820 in the guard cover. In the active configuration, the clip-on guard 220 can provide additional shielding for the dynamic working tool 110.

Some advantages of the indicator 810 can include: when the clip-on guard assembly 220 is in the inactive configuration, the visible indicator can clearly signal to the user that the tool is not ready for the specific use allowed by the clip-on guard assembly 220, thereby reducing likelihood of accidental operation. Conversely, when the clip-on guard assembly 220 is in the active configuration, the obscured indicator can reassure the user that the clip-on guard assembly 220 is properly positioned to shielding. In some cases, a dual-state indicator system can simplify user interaction with the tool, reduce the risk of operational errors, and improve overall safety.

Terminology

Conditional language, such as, among others, “can,” “could,” “might,” or “may,” unless specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain embodiments include, while other embodiments do not include, certain features, elements, and/or steps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements and/or steps are in any way required for one or more embodiments or that one or more embodiments necessarily include logic for deciding, with or without user input or prompting, whether these features, elements and/or steps are included or are to be performed in any particular embodiment.

Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims, the words “include,” “can include,” and the like are to be construed in an inclusive sense, as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in the sense of “including, but not limited to.” As used herein, the terms “connected,” “coupled,” or any variant thereof means any connection or coupling, either direct or indirect, between two or more elements; the coupling or connection between the elements can be physical, logical, or a combination thereof. Additionally, the words “herein,” “above,” “below,” and words of similar import, when used in this application, refer to this application as a whole and not to any particular portions of this application. Where the context permits, words in the above Detailed Description using the singular or plural number may also include the plural or singular number, respectively. The word “or” in reference to a list of two or more items, covers all of the following interpretations of the word: any one of the items in the list, all of the items in the list, and any combination of the items in the list. Likewise the term “and/or” in reference to a list of two or more items, covers all of the following interpretations of the word: any one of the items in the list, all of the items in the list, and any combination of the items in the list.

Depending on the embodiment, certain operations, acts, events, or functions of any of the routines described elsewhere herein can be performed in a different sequence, can be added, merged, or left out altogether (non-limiting example: not all are necessary for the practice of the algorithms). Moreover, in certain embodiments, operations, acts, functions, or events can be performed concurrently, rather than sequentially.

These and other changes can be made to the invention in light of the above Detailed Description. While the above description describes certain examples of the invention, and describes the best mode contemplated, no matter how detailed the above appears in text, the invention can be practiced in many ways. Details of the system may vary considerably in its specific implementation, while still being encompassed by the invention disclosed herein. As noted above, particular terminology used when describing certain features or aspects of the invention should not be taken to imply that the terminology is being redefined herein to be restricted to any specific characteristics, features, or aspects of the invention with which that terminology is associated. In general, the terms used in the following claims should not be construed to limit the invention to the specific examples disclosed in the specification, unless the above Detailed Description section explicitly defines such terms. Accordingly, the actual scope of the invention encompasses not only the disclosed examples, but also all equivalent ways of practicing or implementing the invention under the claims.

Disjunctive language such as the phrase “at least one of X, Y, or Z,” unless specifically stated otherwise, is otherwise understood with the context as used in general to present that an item, term, etc., may be either X, Y, or Z, or any combination thereof (non-limiting examples: X, Y, and/or Z). Thus, such disjunctive language is not generally intended to, and should not, imply that certain embodiments require at least one of X, at least one of Y, or at least one of Z to each be present.

Unless otherwise explicitly stated, articles such as “a” or “an” should generally be interpreted to include one or more described items. Accordingly, phrases such as “a device configured to” are intended to include one or more recited devices. Such one or more recited devices can also be collectively configured to carry out the stated recitations. For example, “a processor configured to carry out recitations A, B and C” can include a first processor configured to carry out recitation A working in conjunction with a second processor configured to carry out recitations B and C.

While the above detailed description has shown, described, and pointed out novel features as applied to various embodiments, it can be understood that various omissions, substitutions, and changes in the form and details of the devices or algorithms illustrated can be made without departing from the spirit of the disclosure. As can be recognized, certain embodiments described elsewhere herein can be embodied within a form that does not provide all of the features and benefits set forth herein, as some features can be used or practiced separately from others. The scope of certain embodiments disclosed herein is indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.

Any terms generally associated with circles, such as “radius” or “radial” or “diameter” or “circumference” or “circumferential” or any derivatives or similar types of terms are intended to be used to designate any corresponding structure in any type of geometry, not just circular structures. For example, “radial” as applied to another geometric structure should be understood to refer to a direction or distance between a location corresponding to a general geometric center of such structure to a perimeter of such structure; “diameter” as applied to another geometric structure should be understood to refer to a cross sectional width of such structure; and “circumference” as applied to another geometric structure should be understood to refer to a perimeter region. Nothing in this specification or drawings should be interpreted to limit these terms to only circles or circular structures.