US20040206859A1 - Apparatuses, systems, and methods for positioning a powered tool - Google Patents

Abstract

Apparatuses, systems, and methods for positioning a powered tool are provided. A support member has an adjustable length between a first end and a second end. A control device is operably coupled with the support member. The control device is configured to receive a supply of a motivating force and to receive a user input. The control device is further configured to direct at least a portion of the motivating force to the support member to direct the support member to at least one of extend or contract as indicated by the user input received. A tool bracket configured for receiving a tool is disposed at the first end of the support member is tiltable relative to a position of the support member. A base end is disposed at the second end of the support member. The base end is configured to engage a supporting surface.

Description

PRIORITY CLAIM
• This invention claims priority from U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/463,977, filed Apr. 17, 2003.[0001]
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
• This invention relates generally to tools and, more specifically, to support of a powered tool.[0002]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
• Electrically, pneumatically, and hydraulically powered tools have greatly reduced labor demands and costs associated with construction, destruction, and renovation projects. To name one example, removal of concrete, masonry, stone, or other similar hard substances from a wall or another partially vertical surface once had to be performed by human laborers wielding hammers and/or chisels. The process was time consuming, demanded a great deal of energy and strength, and resulted in an appreciable cost chargeable to the project. However, the advent of powered tools has simplified this process with the proliferation of devices such as chipping hammers. A chipping hammer, which is a small, generally handheld pneumatically-powered jackhammer, can be wielded by an individual to chisel away such substances in a fraction of the time.[0003]
• As useful and beneficial as such as tool as a chipping hammer can be, however, the use of such a tool is not without its drawbacks. First, although a chipping hammer is light enough to be held by a human operator, a chipping hammer is still a relatively heavy appliance. In order to be able to provide useful impulse strength at the chisel tip, the chipping hammer desirably incorporates a reasonably sturdy—and therefore heavy—metal pneumatic cylinder. Similarly, the chisel installed in the chipping hammer must be hard, durable, and, once again, heavy. In addition, associated hardware, such as handles provided for gripping the device and fittings for receiving the pneumatic pressure from a compressor or similar device, also add weight to the device. Finally, because the chipping hammer is coupled through a hose sufficiently sturdy to provide pneumatic pressure, the drag weight of the pneumatic hose also contributes to the apparent, working weight of the chipping hammer when in use. All totaled, a typical chipping hammer weighs in the range of 15 to 25 pounds not even including the drag weight of the hose.[0004]
• Although an object weighing 15 to 25 pounds does not present a troubling concern in terms of lifting or carrying the object, the task of holding a chipping hammer in one's hands supporting the chipping hammer at various angles presents a very significant physical challenge for the user. Unlike a jackhammer, which is used to remove hard materials from a floor or generally horizontal substance and is largely supported by a reaction force of a lower surface, an operator of a chipping hammer must provide continual support for the tool.[0005]
• Second, positions in which an operator must wield a chipping hammer can be very strenuous and awkward. It is not unusual for an operator, standing on a ladder or scaffold to have to hold the chipping hammer away from his or her body, often having to reach upward or even support the tool over his or her head. Strain resulting from working above one's head is highly fatiguing and potentially injurious to the muscles, particularly those of the neck, shoulders, arms, and back, as well as throughout the body. Moreover, the strain resulting from supporting a heavy implement above one's head, potentially for an entire work shift, day in and day out, is tremendously rigorous.[0006]
• Last, but not least, not only is the chipping hammer a heavy tool, but by its very nature, operation of a chipping hammer results in relatively violent reciprocating movement and vibration. Unlike the jackhammer, whose recoil from the lower surface on which it is used is partially restrained by gravity, the chipping hammer must be restrained and controlled by the operator. Simply holding onto a tool moving with such force, to say nothing of the force of the tool continually recoiling from impact with the surface on which the operator operates the tool, is very strenuous. Such work strains both the larger muscles of the body, including the neck, shoulders, arms, and back, and also the smaller muscles of the body, including the wrists, hands, fingers, and knuckles. An instinctive reaction to tightly grip such a shaking, thrashing tool imparts further strain on the operator's body.[0007]
• Operation of a chipping hammer presents a tremendous challenge for a strong, healthy operator. Accordingly, it will be appreciated what a challenge operating such a tool presents to an operator who is not as strong or healthy, including older operators or persons suffering from work-related or other physical limitations. Laws today are in place to ensure worker safety, and now also call for accommodations to challenged workers such that they, too, can perform their jobs.[0008]
• Furthermore, relying on a human operator to both support and operate a vibrating, reciprocating tool presents a risk of harm. If the operator becomes fatigued or otherwise is not up to the challenge of supporting and controlling the tool, the tool could slip from his or her hands. The tool could fall or bounce away from the surface on which it is being used. An uncontrolled tool could cause damage to the surface on which the tool was being operated or the floor surface a falling tool could strike. Much worse, an out of control or falling tool could strike and injure the operator or others standing nearby.[0009]
• It will be appreciated that a chipping hammer is not the only such device where such problems are manifest. Just to name one example, drills, particularly reciprocating concrete drills, also present a challenge to an operator in supporting, manipulating, and controlling such a device. In addition, grinders, sanders, buffers, polishers, pressure-washing nozzles, sprayers, and many other tools present operational concerns when an operator must both operate a tool and support its weight.[0010]
• Thus, there is an unmet in the art for an apparatus and a method to position and support a power tool. In particular, it is desired to be able to provide lightweight, portable support for a power tool to provide tool support in a wide range of situations.[0011]
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
• The present invention provides an apparatus and method for positioning a powered tool for operation in a way that reduces physical demands on a human operator using the tool. Embodiments of the present invention include an extendable/retractable shaft and one or more swiveling joints at a base and/or a head of the shaft where the tool is mounted. Using embodiments of the present invention, the tool support can be swiveled at its base to position the tool in a desired range. The tool support can be extended or retracted in length through the use of one or more control pedals or other control devices to further position the tool. Also, being mounted to a swiveling head, the tool can also be tilted and otherwise adjusted to position the tool at a desired working positioning. It will be appreciated that these steps can be undertaken in any order or undertaken simultaneously or continuously to position the tool to a desired working position.[0012]
• Embodiments of the present invention provide a number of benefits. Embodiments of the present invention help in supporting the weight of the tool and maintaining the tool in a desired operating position. As a result, physical demands of the operator are reduced. The tool can then be operated by a person not having the physical capacity ordinarily desired of an operator of the tool. A person with adequate strength and physical mobility to operate the tool without embodiments of the present invention will experience less strain and fatigue. By reducing physical demands, accidents may be avoided. Moreover, by supporting the tool, effectiveness of using the tool can be enhanced. Embodiments of the invention can be used with chipping hammers, drills, and other powered tools.[0013]
• More particularly, apparatuses, systems, and methods for positioning a powered tool are provided. A support member has an adjustable length between a first end and a second end. A control device is operably coupled with the support member. The control device is configured to receive a supply of a motivating force and to receive a user input. The control device is further configured to direct at least a portion of the motivating force to the support member to direct the support member to at least one of extend or contract as indicated by the user input received. A tool bracket configured for receiving a tool is disposed at the first end of the support member. A base end is disposed at the second end of the support member. The base end is configured to engage a supporting surface.[0014]
• In accordance with further aspects of the invention, the support member includes an extensible cylinder. The extensible cylinder includes a shaft and a housing, with the shaft being slidable within an inner channel of the housing such that relative positioning of the shaft within the housing causes the support member to one of extend and contract. The support member may include a pressure cylinder and the motivating force may include a pressure source.[0015]
• In accordance with other aspects of the invention, the control device may be configured to direct a pressure from the pressure source into the pressure cylinder, thereby causing the shaft to extend from the housing. Extension of the shaft from the housing causes the support member to extend when the user input indicates the support member is to be moved to an extend position. The control device also may be configured to direct a pressure from the pressure source into the pressure cylinder, thereby causing the shaft to retract into the housing. Retraction of the shaft into the housing causes the support member to contract when the user input indicates the support member is to be moved to a contract position. The control device also may be configured to release pressure from the pressure cylinder allowing the shaft to retract into the housing. Release of the pressure thereby allows the support member to contract when the user input device is motivated to a contract position.[0016]
• Further in accordance with aspects of the present invention, the pressure cylinder includes a pneumatic cylinder and the pressure source includes a pressurized gas source. Alternatively, the pressure cylinder includes an hydraulic cylinder and the pressure source includes a pressurized liquid source. Further alternatively, the support member may include a plurality of slidable members coupled with at least one motorized coupling. The motorized coupling is configured to position the slidable members relative to each other such that a relative positioning of the plurality of members causes the support member to one of extend and contract. The motorized coupling suitably includes at least one electric motor and the motivating force includes an electric power source.[0017]
• In accordance with additional aspects of the present invention, the control device includes a multiple-position control including an extend position, a contract position, and a neutral position. The control device is configured such that when the multiple-position control is in the neutral position the control device neither directs the support member to extend nor to contract. Alternatively, the control device includes an extend control and a contract control, with the control device being configured so that when neither the extend control and the contract control is actuated, the control device neither directs the support member to extend nor to contract. The control device suitably includes at least one of a hand-operable device and a foot-operable device.[0018]
• Also in accordance with aspects of the present invention, the tool bracket includes a tiltable coupling joining the tool bracket to the support member such that the tool bracket is tiltable relative to a position of the support member. The tiltable coupling includes at least one of rotatable joint and a swiveling joint. Also, the base end is configured to be tiltable relative to a surface engaging the base end. The base end suitably is joined with a base plate configured to tiltably receive the base end of the support member. The base plate may be joined with the base end of the support member with one of a hinged joint and a ball joint configured to tiltably couple the base end of the support member to the base plate.[0019]
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
• The preferred and alternative embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below with reference to the following drawings.[0020]
• FIG. 1 is a side view of a presently preferred embodiment of the present invention;[0021]
• FIG. 2A is a top view of one form of a control pedal for controlling extension and/or retraction of an embodiment of the present invention;[0022]
• FIG. 2B is a side view of the control pedal shown in FIG. 2A;[0023]
• FIG. 2C is a top view of one form of a control pedal for controlling extension and/or retraction of an embodiment of the present invention;[0024]
• FIG. 2D is a side view of the control pedal shown in FIG. 2C; and[0025]
• FIG. 3 is a flowchart of a routine for using a present invention.[0026]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
• By way of overview, apparatuses, systems, and methods for positioning a powered tool are provided. A support member has an adjustable length between a first end and a second end. A control device is operably coupled with the support member. The control device is configured to receive a supply of a motivating force and to receive a user input. The control device is further configured to direct at least a portion of the motivating force to the support member to direct the support member to at least one of extend or contract as indicated by the user input received. A tool bracket configured for receiving a tool is disposed at the first end of the support member. A base end is disposed at the second end of the support member. The base end is configured to engage a supporting surface.[0027]
• FIG. 1 is a side view of a presently preferred embodiment of a[0028]tool support100 of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, thetool support100 supports atool102 such as a pneumatically-powered chipping hammer. Thetool102 has abody104 which, in this example, consists primarily of a pneumatic cylinder housing which drives atip106 as is understood in the art. Thetool102 also features ahandle108 which, without thetool support100, provides the principle means of support for thetool102. Thetool102 also includes apower input110 which, in this case, is a pneumatic pressure coupling for receiving apneumatic hose112 which drives thetool102. Thetool102 also includes amount114 which allows thetool102 to be secured to thetool support100.
• Although this description of the invention contemplates a[0029]tool102 such as a chipping hammer being used with thetool support100, it will be appreciated that thetool support100 also could be used with other tools. Embodiments of the present invention can be used with any tools having any appreciable weight and/or generating reactive forces on the operator, such as grinders, sanders, buffers, polishers, pressure-washing nozzles, sprayers, drills, reciprocating concrete drills, hole saws, and other tools. Benefits derived by an operator of a chipping hammer through the use of thetool support100 similarly will be derived by operators of other tools.
• The[0030]tool support100 is coupled with thetool102 at a swiveling ortiltable head114. Thetiltable head114 allows for thetool102 to be directed to operate at various angles. In one presently preferred embodiment, thetiltable head114 suitably is a ball joint connector allowing for freedom of rotational movement in pitch, yaw, and to a lesser extent, roll. In other words, a ball joint allows for rotational, angular manipulation of the chipping hammer in all three planes in free-space. For another non-limiting example, thetiltable head114 also suitably is a dual-hinged pivot, allowing thetool102 to be rotationally turned in two directions determined by the positioning of the hinges. For another non-limiting example, thetiltable head114 suitably is a single-hinged pivot having an axis disposed to allow the chipping hammer to be rotated about a single axis, with the single axis in this case extending perpendicularly from the page of FIG. 1. As will be appreciated from the continued description below, additional freedom of movement of thetip106 of thetool102 can be gained by manipulating other controllable positioning aspects of thetool support100.
• The[0031]tiltable head114 resides atop asupport member120. Thesupport member120 in the presently described embodiment includes an extensible/retractable shaft124 extending from ahousing126. In one presently preferred embodiment, the housing supports ahandle128 which allows an operator to grip, turn, carry, and otherwise impart force to thehousing126 and, therefore, thetool support120 as a whole. In addition, one presently preferred embodiment of the invention includes asupport handle129. The support handle129 is coupled with thetiltable head114 and extends from thetiltable head114 perpendicularly both to an operational axis of thetool102 and thesupport member120. Thus, the support handle129 advantageously provides a grip by which a user can control the position of the tool as well as to apply manual force as desired. If desired, an end of the support handle129 can include a hand-operable control device for controlling extension and contraction of the support member in addition to thefoot pedal130, operation of which will be described further below.
• In one presently preferred embodiment of the[0032]tool support100, theshaft124 and thehousing126 are part of a pneumatically-powered cylinder assembly. In a pneumatically-powered embodiment, theshaft124 is extended and retracted by selectively directing a motivating force in the form of compressed air from an externally supplied source into an end of the cylinder assembly. It will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art that selective application of compressed air on one side of a piston driving theshaft124 can be used to extend or retract theshaft124 and thereby control deployment of thetool102 mounted on the tool support. It will also be appreciated that application of compressed air on a side of the piston below theshaft124 can be used to extend the shaft while, taking advantage of gravity, venting of pressure on the side of the piston below the shaft can be used to lower or retract the shaft in the exemplary embodiment shown. As also shown in FIG. 1, thetool102 receives itspower input110 from an auxiliary supply on acontrol pedal130 for the sake of convenience in only running a single supply line (not shown) to the work environment. However, thetool102 also can be operated from itsown power input110. Thus, thetool102 may be powered using a different form of input power than thetool support100.
• Embodiments of the present invention are not limited to using a pneumatic cylinder assembly. It will be appreciated that a hydraulic cylinder assembly also could be used. Similarly, a motor-driven structure using electric or other motors could be used to extend or retract the[0033]shaft124 from itshousing126. Other extending/retracting mechanisms also can be used to support a tool in accordance with embodiments of the present invention. For example, the extending/retracting mechanism could include a plurality of slidable members such as a rack and pinion system (not shown). In such an embodiment, extension and retraction of the extending/retracting mechanism could be facilitated by an electric motor driving the pinion to cause the relative displacement of the racks.
• The[0034]support member120 is extended or retracted in the exemplary embodiment shown by apneumatic foot pedal130. Thefoot pedal130 receives a supply of compressed air (not shown) and selectively directs the flow of compressed air to one side of a piston to control the extension or contract of thesupport member120. Depending on the actuation of thefoot pedal130, compressed air will be directed to either an expandingpneumatic hose132 or a retractingpneumatic hose134 coupled with thehousing126 at respective input couplings (not shown). Alternatively, as previously described, actuation of thefoot pedal130 can be used to direct compressed air to extend theshaft124 and to vent compressed air from thehousing126 to lower or retract the shaft. Thehoses132 and the operation of thefoot pedal130 will be further described in connection with FIGS. 2A-2D.
• It will be appreciated that, in other embodiments of the invention, the[0035]foot pedal130 could be hydraulic foot pedal for a hydraulic cylinder assembly, and electric switch for an electrical motor-driven assembly, or another control device appropriate to the construction of the cylinder. It will also be appreciated that thefoot pedal130 could be replaced or supplemented by hand-operable controls, finger-operable controls, or other controls mounted on thehousing126, on thesupport handle129, or at another position to control extension of theshaft124. In the exemplary embodiment shown, afoot pedal130 is used to allow the operator to have both hands free to manipulate thetool102.
• Finally, the[0036]tool support100 has abase140. Thebase140 supports the weight of thetool support100 and the tool mounted thereon102. The base140 also suitably provides additional swivel mobility of thetool support100 and, therefore, mobility of thetool102 itself. In the exemplary embodiment shown, thebase140 is a shaft that allows the tool support to be rotated about a major axis of thesupport member120 as well as pivoted in any direction relative to a surface on which thebase140 rests. It will be appreciated that the base140 also could provide this degree of pivotal movement if the base140 included a stand or base plate to be rested on the surface and a hinged joint, a swiveling ball and socket joint, or a similar joint were used to join the base plate and thehousing126. The described embodiment of the invention contemplates abase end140 of thetool support100 resting on a lower surface with thetool102 coupled to an upper end of thetool support100. However, it will be appreciated that thebase end140 of thetool support100 could engage an upper surface or a side surface, with thetool102 being coupled to a lower end or an opposite side end of the tool support.
• Considering FIG. 1, it will be appreciated that the[0037]tool support100 provides for a great deal of flexibility in positioning thetool102 mounted thereon. The base140 can be moved to reposition the entire apparatus. By applying force to thehousing126 relative to the base, thetool support100 can be pivoted or tilted about thebase140, thereby allowing the tool support to be maneuvered in the plane above the surface on which thebase140 rests. Thesupport member120 can be extended or retracted to position thetiltable head114 and, thus, thetool102 at a range of distances relative to thebase140. Thetool102 can be swiveled about thetiltable head114 to allow thetip106 of thetool102 to reach different locations or attack a surface at different angles. Such flexibility of linear and/or pivotal movement is highly useful when operating tools such as grinders, sanders, buffers, polishers, pressure-washing nozzles, sprayers, and other such tools which desirably are swept over a surface. Thus, thetool support100 provides for a great deal of flexibility in positioning thetool102 mounted on thetool support100.
• It will also be appreciated that the effectiveness of the[0038]tool102 can be enhanced coupled with thetool support100. For one non-limiting example, in many cases the operator of a chipping hammer must chip away material at a surface situated above his or her head. As a result, gravity works against the operator when the operator attempts to apply force to the chipping hammer to direct its impulse force against the desired part of the overhead surface. Using an embodiment of the present invention, however, the operator can use thetool support100 to actually drive thetool102 upwardly against the surface. The force applied to thetool102 by thetool support120 adds to the impulsive force generated by the tool itself. In sum, the force generated by thetool support100 not only is useful for supporting and/or positioning thetool102, but the force generated by the tool support also can be exploited to provide useful force to enhance in the operation of thetool102 itself.
• FIGS. 2A-2D show possible forms of control devices such as[0039]pedals200 and250 that can be used to control the extension and contraction of the tool support120 (FIG. 1). Thecontrol pedals200 and250 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2A-2D are foot pedals. However, as previously mentioned, embodiments of the present invention are not limited to using foot pedals. The controls shown in FIGS. 2A-2D could be adapted and positioned for hand, finger, or other control of the device. As also was previously mention, exemplary embodiments of the invention described here use pneumatic pressure to operate the tool support100 (FIG. 1), although hydraulics, electronics, or other types of mechanisms could be used.
• FIG. 2A is a top view of one form of a control device in the nature of a[0040]control pedal200 for controlling extension and retraction of the shaft124 (FIG. 1) according to an embodiment of the present invention. Thecontrol pedal200 has a base202 supporting the rest of thecontrol pedal200. In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 2A, thebase202 supports twofoot pedals204 and206 for extending and retracting theshaft124, respectively. Anintake coupling208 receives a supply of compressed air. In one embodiment of the present invention, depending on whetherfoot pedal204 or206 is depressed, thecontrol pedal200 will direct pneumatic pressure to anextension output coupling210 or aretraction output coupling211 to extend or contract the support member120 (FIG. 1), respectively. Thecouplings210 and211 are connected to appropriate extension and retraction input couplings (not shown) on the tool support100 (FIG. 1) to control deployment of the support member120 (FIG. 1). In another embodiment of the present invention, depending on whetherfoot pedal204 or206 is depressed, thecontrol pedal200 will direct pneumatic pressure to anextension output coupling210 to extend the support member120 (FIG. 1). Alternatively,pressing pedal206 suitably may release pneumatic pressure through theretraction output211 to exploit gravity to lower or contract the support member120 (FIG. 1).
• FIG. 2B is a side view of the[0041]control pedal200 shown in FIG. 2A. As can be seen from FIG. 2B, thefoot pedals204 and206 are hingably mounted on a rotatable valve device212. The valve device212 both supports thefoot pedals204 and206, but also directs the input pneumatic pressure to one of theoutput couplings210 and211 depending on whichpedal204 or206 is depressed.
• FIG. 2C is a top view of another form of a[0042]control pedal250 for controlling extension and contraction of the support member120 (FIG. 1) according to an embodiment of the present invention. Thecontrol pedal250 has a base252 supporting the rest of thecontrol pedal250. Unlike the first form of the control pedal200 (FIGS. 2A and 2B), in the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 2C, thebase252 supports a single, dualaction foot pedal254 for extending and retracting theshaft124, as will be further explained. Anintake coupling258 receives a supply of compressed air. In one embodiment of the present invention, depending on the direction in which thefoot pedal254 is depressed, thecontrol pedal250 will direct pneumatic pressure to anextension output coupling260 or aretraction output coupling261 to extend or contract the support member120 (FIG. 1), respectively. Thecouplings260 and261 are connected to appropriate extension and retraction input couplings (not shown) on the tool support100 (FIG. 1) to control deployment of the shaft124 (FIG. 1). In another embodiment of the present invention, depending on the direction in which thefoot pedal254 is depressed, thecontrol pedal250 will direct pneumatic pressure to anextension output coupling260 to extend the support member120 (FIG. 1) or vent pneumatic pressure through theretraction output261 to exploit gravity to lower or contract the support member120 (FIG. 1).
• FIG. 2D is a side view of the[0043]control pedal250 shown in FIG. 2C. As can be seen from FIG. 2D, thefoot pedal254 is hingably mounted on a bidirectionalrotatable valve device262. Thevalve device262 supports thefoot pedal254 and directs the input pneumatic pressure to one of theoutput couplings260 and261. If a first end of thefoot pedal254 is depressed, pneumatic pressure is directed to theextension output coupling260. Alternatively, if asecond end271 of thefoot pedal254 is depressed, pneumatic pressure is directed to theretraction output coupling261.
• FIG. 3 shows a flowchart of a routine[0044]300 for supporting a tool according to an embodiment of the present invention. The routine300 begins at ablock302. At ablock304, it is determined if the tool support is aligned at its base so that the tool is positioned at a proper angle for the task relative to the base. If not, at ablock306 the tool support is swiveled at is base to position the tool at the proper angle relative to the base. If the tool is positioned at a proper angle or has been repositioned at a proper angle, at ablock310 it is determined if the tool support has been extended to an appropriate extension for the desired task. If not, at ablock312 it is determined if the tool support as deployed is not sufficiently extended for the task. If not, at ablock314, the operator actuates a control pedal to extend the tool support. On the other hand, if the tool support is not too short for the task, at ablock316 it is determined if the tool support as deployed is overly extended for the task. If so, at ablock318, the operator actuates the control pedal to retract the tool support.
• On the other hand, if at the[0045]block310 the tool support length is determined to be appropriate, the tool support has been appropriately extended at theblock314, or the tool support has been appropriately retracted at theblock318, at ablock320 it is determined if the tool is deployed at a proper angle at the head of the tool support. If not, at ablock322 the tool is swiveled to position the tool for the desired angle of attack. If the tool is deployed at the proper angle at the head of the tool support has been swiveled to a proper angle, at ablock324 the tool is engaged.
• As previously described, depending on the nature of the task for which the tool is being used, it might be of benefit to further extend the shaft to apply force to the tool, such as when driving a chipping hammer or drill into an overhead surface. Thus, at a[0046]block326 it is determined if it is desirable to apply additional force to the tool. If so, at ablock328 the operator actuates a control pedal to extend (or, depending on the application, retract) the tool support. If it is determined at theblock326 that no additional force is desired, the routine continues at ablock330, and it is determined at ablock330 if the tool is needed at other positions or otherwise it is desired that the tool be repositioned. If so, the routine300 loops to theblock304 and the routine300 resumes. If not, at ablock332 the routine ends.
• It will be appreciated that the steps of the routine outlined in FIG. 3 are not rigid in their sequence. An operator of a tool and a tool support according to an embodiment of the present invention could undertake these steps in any order and/or execute the steps concurrently and/or continually to achieve desired position and operation of the tool. For one non-limiting example, if the tool support is used to support a sander or a grinder, the operator may desire to continually pivot and/or extend and retract the tool support to effect a sweeping motion over a surface of interest. It will be appreciated that embodiments of the invention suitably are used for such continual manipulation and repositioning.[0047]
• While the preferred embodiment of the invention has been illustrated and described, as noted above, many changes can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, the scope of the invention is not limited by the disclosure of the preferred embodiment. Instead, the scope of the invention should be determined by reference to the claims that follow.[0048]

Claims (43)

What is claimed is:

1. An apparatus for supporting a tool, the apparatus comprising:

a support member, the support member having an adjustable length between a first end and a second end;

a control device operably coupled with the support member, the control device being configured to receive a supply of a motivating force and a user input, the control device being further configured to direct at least a portion of the motivating force to the support member to direct the support member to at least one of extend and contract as indicated by the user input received;

a tool bracket disposed at the first end of the support member, the tool bracket being configured for receiving a tool and including a tiltable coupling joining the tool bracket to the support member such that the tool bracket is tiltable relative to a position of the support member; and

a base end disposed at the second end of the support member, the base end being configured to engage a supporting surface.

2. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the support member includes an extensible cylinder, the extensible cylinder including a shaft and a housing, the shaft being slidable within an inner channel of the housing such that relative positioning of the shaft within the housing causes the support member to one of extend and contract.

3. The apparatus ofclaim 2, wherein the support member includes a pressure cylinder and the motivating force includes a pressure source.

4. The apparatus ofclaim 3, wherein the control device is configured to direct a pressure from the pressure source into the pressure cylinder causing the shaft to extend from the housing thereby causing the support member to extend when the user input indicates the support member is to be moved to an extend position.

5. The apparatus ofclaim 3, wherein the control device is configured to direct a pressure from the pressure source into the pressure cylinder causing the shaft to retract into the housing thereby causing the support member to contract when the user input indicates the support member is to be moved to a contract position.

6. The apparatus ofclaim 3, wherein the control device is configured to release pressure from the pressure cylinder allowing the shaft to retract into the housing thereby allowing the support member to contract when the user input device is motivated to a contract position.

7. The apparatus ofclaim 3, wherein the pressure cylinder includes a pneumatic cylinder and the pressure source includes a pressurized gas source.

8. The apparatus ofclaim 3, wherein the pressure cylinder includes an hydraulic cylinder and the pressure source includes a pressurized liquid source.

9. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the support member includes a plurality of slidable members coupled with at least one motorized coupling, the motorized coupling being configured to position the slidable members relative to each other such that a relative positioning of the plurality of members causes the support member to one of extend and contract.

10. The apparatus ofclaim 9, wherein the motorized coupling includes at least one electric motor and the motivating force includes an electric power source.

11. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the control device includes a multiple-position control including an extend position, a contract position, and a neutral position, the control device being configured such that when the multiple-position control is in the neutral position the control device neither directs the support member to extend nor to contract.

12. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the control device includes an extend control and a contract control, the control device being configured so that when neither the extend control and the contract control is actuated, the control device neither directs the support member to extend nor to contract.

13. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the control device includes at least one of a hand-operable device and a foot-operable device.

14. The apparatus ofclaim 1, further comprising a support handle extending from the tiltable tool bracket.

15. The apparatus ofclaim 14, wherein the control device is disposed on the support handle.

16. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the tiltable coupling includes at least one of rotatable joint and a swiveling joint.

17. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the base end is configured to be tiltable relative to a surface receiving the base end.

18. The apparatus ofclaim 1, further comprising a base plate, the base plate being configured to be engaged by the supporting surface and further configured to tiltably receive the base end of the support member.

19. The apparatus ofclaim 18, wherein the base plate is configured to tiltably receive the base end with one of a hinged joint and a ball joint configured to tiltably couple the base end of the support member to the base plate.

20. A system for supporting a tool, the apparatus comprising:

a supply of a motivating force;

a support member, the support member having an adjustable length between a first end and a second end;

a control device operably coupled with the support member and the supply of the motivating force, the control device being configured to receive a user input directing the support member to one of extend or contract and further configured to direct at least a portion of the motivating force to the support member to direct the support member to at least one of extend or contract as indicated by the user input received;

a tool bracket disposed at the first end of the support member, the tool bracket being configured for receiving a tool and including a tiltable coupling joining the tool bracket to the support member such that the tool bracket is tiltable relative to a position of the support member; and

a base end disposed at the second end of the support member, the base end being configured to engage a supporting surface.

21. The system ofclaim 20, wherein the support member includes an extensible cylinder, the extensible cylinder including a shaft and a housing, the shaft being slidable within an inner channel of the housing such that relative positioning of the shaft within the housing causes the support member to one of extend and contract.

22. The system ofclaim 21, wherein the support member includes a pressure cylinder and the supply of the motivating force includes a pressure source.

23. The system ofclaim 22, wherein the control device is configured to direct a pressure from the pressure source into the pressure cylinder causing the shaft to extend from the housing thereby causing the support member to extend when the user input indicates the support member is to be moved to an extend position.

24. The system ofclaim 22, wherein the control device is configured to direct a pressure from the pressure source into the pressure cylinder causing the shaft to retract into the housing thereby causing the support member to contract when the user input indicates the support member is to be moved to a contract position.

25. The system ofclaim 22, wherein the control device is configured to release pressure from the pressure cylinder allowing the shaft to retract into the housing thereby allowing the support member to contract when the user input device is motivated to a contract position.

26. The system ofclaim 22, wherein the pressure cylinder includes a pneumatic cylinder and the pressure source includes a pressurized gas source.

27. The system ofclaim 22, wherein the pressure cylinder includes an hydraulic cylinder and the pressure source includes a pressurized liquid source.

28. The system ofclaim 20, wherein the support member includes a plurality of slidable members coupled with at least one motorized coupling, the motorized coupling being configured to position the slidable members relative to each other such that a relative positioning of the plurality of members causes the support member to one of extend and contract.

29. The system ofclaim 28, wherein the motorized coupling includes at least one electric motor and the supply of the motivating force includes an electric power source.

30. The system ofclaim 20, wherein the control device includes a multiple-position control including an extend position, a contract position, and a neutral position, the control device being configured such that when the multiple-position control is in the neutral position the control device neither directs the support member to extend nor to contract.

31. The system ofclaim 20, wherein the control device includes an extend control and a contract control, the control device being configured so that when neither the extend control and the contract control is actuated, the control device neither directs the support member to extend nor to contract.

32. The system ofclaim 20, wherein the control device includes at least one of a hand-operable device and a foot-operable device.

33. The system ofclaim 20, further comprising a support handle extending from the tiltable tool bracket.

34. The apparatus ofclaim 33, wherein the control device is disposed on the support handle.

35. The system ofclaim 20, wherein the tiltable coupling includes at least one of rotatable joint and a swiveling joint.

36. The system ofclaim 20, wherein the base end is configured to be tiltable relative to a surface receiving the base end.

37. The system ofclaim 20, further comprising a base plate, the base plate being configured to be engaged by the supporting surface and further configured to tiltably receive the base end of the support member.

38. The system ofclaim 37, wherein the base plate is configured to tiltably receive the base end with one of a hinged joint and a ball joint configured to tiltably couple the base end of the support member to the base plate.

39. A method for supporting a tool, the system comprising:

tiltably coupling a first end of a support member to a tool, the support member having an adjustable length;

engaging a second end of the support member with a supporting surface;

controllably coupling a source of the externally applied motivating force to the support member; and

selectably directing the motivating force to the support member to direct the support member to at least one of extend or contract.

40. The method ofclaim 39, wherein the motivating force is selectably directed to the support member using at least one of a hand-operated control and a foot-operated control.

41. The method ofclaim 39, further comprising further comprising providing a support handle extending from the first end of the support member.

42. The method ofclaim 39, further comprising tiltably engaging the second end of the support member with the supporting service such that the support member is tiltable relative to the supporting surface.

43. The method ofclaim 39, wherein the motivating force includes at least one of a pressure source or an electric power source.

Images