JP5838338B2 - Power tool and power tool authentication device - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an authentication device and a power tool used for a power tool.

  Theft of power tools, particularly portable power tools that include a secondary battery as a drive source is increasing, and the need for theft prevention is increasing. On the other hand, as shown in Patent Document 1, for example, there is an electric tool including an authentication device that performs authentication related to use of the electric tool with an authentication device worn by a user.

  As one configuration example of such an electric tool, for example, as shown in FIG. 7, a switch circuit 91 that outputs an operation signal corresponding to a user's operation, and a motor (illustrated) of the drive unit 92 based on the operation signal. A control circuit 93 for controlling (omitted) is accommodated in the electric power tool main body 90. The switch circuit 91 and the control circuit 93 are connected to each other by connecting the connector 91 b at the tip of the signal line 91 a connected to the switch circuit 91 to the circuit side connector 93 a of the control circuit 93. Further, in order to provide the control circuit 93 with an authentication function, an authentication unit 94 that performs authentication with a user authentication device is mounted on the same substrate of the control circuit 93. The control circuit 93 permits the power supply from the battery pack 95 to the drive unit 92 based on a signal indicating that the authentication from the authentication unit 94 has been confirmed, and controls the supplied power. .

Japanese Patent No. 4678199

  However, as described above, in the configuration in which the authentication unit 94 is mounted on the same substrate of the control circuit 93, it is necessary to greatly change the circuit design of the existing control circuit or to redesign it. Investment occurs and leads to an increase in manufacturing costs. For this reason, an authentication device that can easily add an authentication function to an electric tool is desired.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a power tool and a power tool authentication device capable of easily adding an authentication function.

  In order to solve the above problems, an electric power tool of the present invention includes a control circuit that controls driving of a motor, and a switch circuit that outputs a signal for driving the motor to the control circuit in accordance with a user's operation. The control circuit and the switch circuit are connected to each other via a signal line, and information relating to the right to use the tool is transmitted to and received from the authentication device worn by the user. An electric tool having an authentication unit, wherein the authentication unit is provided separately from the control circuit, and is electrically connected through the signal line between the control circuit and the switch circuit, It is configured to pass and block a signal transmitted on the signal line based on an authentication result related to a tool use right.

The said structure WHEREIN: It is preferable that the said authentication part is physically arrange | positioned between the said control circuit and the said switch circuit in the said electric tool.
The said structure WHEREIN: It is preferable that the said authentication part is comprised so that the authentication regarding the said tool usage right may be implemented every predetermined number of times that the said user uses a tool.

The said structure WHEREIN: It is preferable that the said authentication part is comprised so that the authentication regarding the said tool use right may be implemented for every predetermined time.
The said structure WHEREIN: It is preferable that the said authentication part is built in the said electric tool.

  The power tool authentication apparatus of the present invention includes a control circuit for driving and controlling a motor, and a switch circuit for outputting a signal for driving the motor to the control circuit in accordance with a user operation, An authentication unit that transmits / receives information on the right to use a tool to / from an authentication device worn by the user for a power tool in which a control circuit and the switch circuit are connected to each other via a signal line. An authentication device for an electric power tool, wherein the authentication unit is provided separately from the control circuit, and is electrically connected via the signal line between the control circuit and the switch circuit, It is configured to pass and block a signal transmitted on the signal line based on an authentication result related to a tool use right.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, the authentication tool of an electric tool which can add an authentication function easily, and an electric tool can be provided.

The schematic block diagram of the electric tool in embodiment. The block diagram which shows the electric structure of an electric tool and the apparatus for authentication. The circuit diagram which shows the electrical connection of an electric tool. The flowchart for demonstrating the process of an authentication circuit. The flowchart for demonstrating the process of another authentication circuit. The flowchart for demonstrating the process of another authentication circuit. The block diagram which shows the electric constitution of the conventional electric tool.

DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, an embodiment of the invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
As shown in FIG. 1, the power tool 10 of the present embodiment is a tool used as a drill driver, for example, and includes a power tool body 11 and a battery pack 12 that can be attached to and detached from the power tool body 11. ing. The electric tool main body 11 has a substantially T-shaped main body case 15 composed of a substantially cylindrical body portion 13 and a gripping portion 14 formed to extend downward from the middle of the body portion 13 in the longitudinal direction. ing. In the present embodiment, the longitudinal direction of the body portion 13 is defined as the front-rear direction, the direction perpendicular to the front-rear direction in the substantially extending direction of the gripping portion 14 is defined as the up-down direction, and the direction orthogonal to the front-rear direction and the up-down direction is described as the left-right direction. To do.

  The body portion 15 of the main body case 15 accommodates a drive portion 16 at a position slightly rearward of the longitudinal center. The drive unit 16 is mainly a motor 16a. The motor 16a is accommodated such that the tip end of the output shaft 16b faces the front of the body portion 13. An output portion 17 including a speed reduction mechanism, a clutch mechanism, and the like is connected to the distal end portion of the output shaft 16b. The tip portion 17a of the output portion 17 is configured such that a tip tool for driver (not shown) is detachable. Accordingly, the power tool 10 is configured such that the driver tip tool mounted on the tip portion 17a rotates based on the driving force of the motor 16a.

  Further, a rotation direction changeover switch 18 for switching the rotation direction of the motor 16a is provided in the vicinity of the connection portion of the body portion 13 with the grip portion 14. The rotation direction changeover switch 18 is configured to be switchable to, for example, three states in which the motor 16a is rotated forward, reversely, and stopped.

  The gripping part 14 accommodates a switch circuit 21, a control circuit 22, and an authentication circuit 23. The switch circuit 21 is provided at the upper end portion in the grip portion 14 formed in a cylindrical shape, and is fixed to the grip portion 14 so that the board mounting surface faces in the left-right direction. The switch circuit 21 includes a drive circuit (including the switching element 56) that drives the motor 16a. A trigger 24 is coupled to the switch circuit 21. The trigger 24 protrudes forward from the grip portion 14 in a state of being biased by a spring, for example. The switch circuit 21 outputs an operation signal for driving the motor 16 a to the control circuit 22 according to the pushing amount of the trigger 24. The switch circuit 21 is connected to the drive unit 16 (motor 16a) via a signal line 21a.

  A battery pack mounting portion 14a protruding forward is formed at the lower end of the gripping portion 14, and the battery pack 12 is mounted on the battery pack mounting portion 14a. The battery pack 12 is detachable. The control circuit 22 is fixed in the battery pack mounting portion 14a so that the board mounting surface faces in the vertical direction. The control circuit 22 controls the drive unit 16 based on the operation signal from the switch circuit 21.

  Further, the control circuit 22 is connected to a light emitting element (for example, LED) 19 accommodated in the lower end portion on the front side of the body portion 13 through the signal line 22b. The light emitting element 19 is for illuminating a work or the like to be worked, and the control circuit 22 performs lighting control of the light emitting element 19 based on the operation of the trigger 24.

  In the grip 14, an authentication circuit 23 is provided between the switch circuit 21 and the control circuit 22. A connector 21 c is provided at the tip of the signal line 21 b connected to the switch circuit 21, and this connector 21 c is connected to a circuit-side connector 23 a provided in the authentication circuit 23. A connector 23 c is provided at the tip of the signal line 23 b connected to the authentication circuit 23, and this connector 23 c is connected to a circuit-side connector 22 a provided in the control circuit 22. That is, the authentication circuit 23 is electrically connected between the switch circuit 21 and the control circuit 22 via the signal lines 21 b and 23 b, and an operation signal output from the switch circuit 21 passes through the authentication circuit 23. Are output to the control circuit 22.

  The connector 21c of the signal line 21b extending from the switch circuit 21 can be directly connected to the circuit-side connector 22a of the control circuit 22 so that the electrical configuration of the electric power tool 10 functions. In other words, the specification can be operated as the electric power tool 10 even if the specification does not use the authentication circuit 23 (existing specification).

  As illustrated in FIG. 2, the authentication circuit 23 includes a storage unit 31, a comparison unit 32, and a transmission / reception unit 33. The storage unit 31 holds an identification code for performing authentication. The comparison unit 32 compares the identification code received from the authentication device 41 with the identification code held in the storage unit 31. The transmission / reception unit 33 transmits / receives information to / from the transmission / reception unit 43 of the authentication device 41.

  The authentication device 41 is, for example, a wristwatch that can be worn on a user's arm, and similarly to the storage unit 31, a storage unit 42 that holds an identification code, a transmission / reception unit 43, a storage unit 42, and a transmission / reception unit 43. And a power supply unit 44 for supplying driving power to the power source. The authentication circuit 23 performs authentication related to the right to use the electric power tool 10 (hereinafter referred to as tool use right) using an identification code with the authentication device 41. The authentication circuit 23 transmits the operation signal from the switch circuit 21 to the control circuit 22 when the use is permitted based on the authentication result. On the other hand, when the use is not permitted, the authentication circuit 23 sends the control circuit to the control circuit. The transmission of the operation signal to 22 is cut off.

  As shown in FIG. 1, a power supply terminal portion 25 connected to the switch circuit 21 via a signal line 21d is provided on the lower surface of the battery pack mounting portion 14a (gripping portion 14). The power supply terminal unit 25 is connected to the authentication circuit 23 via the signal line 23d. A signal terminal portion 26 connected to the control circuit 22 is provided on the lower surface of the battery pack mounting portion 14a.

  The battery pack 12 includes a battery monitoring circuit 12a and a secondary battery 12c configured by a plurality of battery cells 12b such as lithium ion batteries. As the battery pack 12 is attached to the battery pack attachment portion 14a, the battery monitoring circuit 12a is electrically connected to the signal terminal portion 26 of the electric tool main body 11, and the secondary battery 12c (battery cell 12b). Is electrically connected to the power supply terminal portion 25 of the electric power tool body 11.

Next, a detailed electrical configuration of the power tool 10 will be described.
As shown in FIG. 3, the battery pack 12 has a power supply corresponding to the power terminals 51 a and 51 b (power terminal section 25) and the signal terminals 51 c and 51 d (signal terminal section 26) of the power tool body 11. Terminals 52a and 52b and signal terminals 52c and 52d are provided. When the battery pack 12 is attached to the power tool body 11, the terminals 51a to 51d and 52a to 52d are electrically connected to each other, so that the power supply to the power tool body 11 side and the output of various detection signals are performed. It becomes possible.

  The secondary battery 12c of the battery pack 12 has a plurality of battery cells 12b connected in series. The positive terminal of the secondary battery 12c is connected to the power terminal 52a, and the negative terminal is connected to the power terminal 52b. The battery monitoring circuit 12a of the battery pack 12 operates by receiving power supply from the secondary battery 12c, and detects the voltage value and temperature for each battery cell 12b constituting the secondary battery 12c. The battery monitoring circuit 12a outputs the detected voltage value and temperature as detection signals to the microcomputer (microcomputer) 53 provided in the control circuit 22 in the electric power tool body 11 via the terminals 51c and 52c.

  The power supply terminal 51 a connected to the plus side of the battery pack 12 is connected to the plus side terminal (not shown) of the motor 16 a of the drive unit 16 via the mechanical switch 54 of the switch circuit 21. The power supply terminal 51b connected to the negative side of the battery pack 12 is connected to the negative side terminal of the motor 16a via a switching element (for example, FET) 56 provided in the switch circuit 21. The switching element 56 has a gate terminal connected to the microcomputer 53 via the authentication circuit 23.

  The terminal on the motor 16 a side of the mechanical switch 54 is connected to the plus side terminal of the voltage detection circuit 55 of the control circuit 22 via the authentication circuit 23. The voltage detection circuit 55 is for detecting the voltage at both ends of the secondary battery 12c on the power tool body 11 side. The voltage detection circuit 55 has a negative terminal connected to the negative side of the secondary battery 12c via the signal terminals 51d and 52d. The voltage detection circuit 55 detects the voltage value of the secondary battery 12c when the mechanical switch 54 is turned on, and outputs it to the microcomputer 53 as a detection signal. The microcomputer 53 detects an abnormality of the secondary battery 12c from the detection signals from the voltage detection circuit 55 and the battery monitoring circuit 12a of the battery pack 12, and performs control to stop the motor 16a.

  Further, the switch circuit 21 is provided with a variable resistor 57 configured so that the resistance value is changed according to the pushing amount of the trigger 24. The positive side terminal of the variable resistor 57 is connected to the power supply circuit (for example, the output voltage is 5 V) 58 included in the control circuit 22 via the authentication circuit 23, and the negative side terminal of the secondary battery 12 c is connected via the authentication circuit 23. Connected to the negative terminal. The variable resistor 57 outputs an operation signal (for example, a current value) corresponding to the pushing amount to the microcomputer 53 via the authentication circuit 23 when the trigger 24 is operated in a state where a voltage is applied to both ends. It has come to be. The control circuit 22 can control the rotational speed of the motor 16 a by controlling the drive signal (PWM control) for driving the switching element 56 based on the operation signal from the variable resistor 57. The operating power of the microcomputer 53 is supplied from the power circuit 58.

Next, an example of processing of the authentication circuit 23 will be described with reference to FIG.
First, when the user pulls the trigger 24 shown in FIG. 1 backward, the mechanical switch 54 shown in FIG. 3 of the switch circuit 21 is turned on (step 61). A signal based on the turning on of the mechanical switch 54 is input to the authentication circuit 23, the authentication circuit 23 and the control circuit 22 are activated (step 62), and authentication regarding the right to use the tool is started. The mechanical switch 54 (switch circuit 21) also has a function as a power switch of the electric tool 10, and driving power is supplied to the authentication circuit 23 and the control circuit 22 when the mechanical switch 54 is turned on. ing.

  In the authentication operation, the authentication circuit 23 transmits an identification code request signal through the transmission / reception units 33 and 43 to the authentication device 41 (see FIG. 2). At this time, if the user holding the electric power tool 10 wears the authentication device 41, the authentication device 41 receives the identification code request signal and holds the identification code held in the storage unit 42. Is transmitted from the transmitter / receiver 43 to the authentication circuit 23. The comparison unit 32 of the authentication circuit 23 compares whether the identification code held in the storage unit 31 of the authentication circuit 23 matches the identification code received from the authentication device 41 (step 63). When the two identification codes match, the authentication circuit 23 determines that the user wearing the authentication device 41 has the right to use the tool, and receives an operation signal from the switch circuit 21 to the control circuit 22. Perform transmission. The control circuit 22 performs PWM control of the switching element 56 based on an operation signal corresponding to the operation amount of the trigger 24 from the variable resistor 57, and performs rotation speed control of the motor 16a (step 64).

  Incidentally, the transmission / reception unit 33 of the authentication circuit 23 and the transmission / reception unit 43 of the authentication device 41 are signals related to the identification code with the human body as the transmission path when the user wearing the authentication device 41 is in contact with the power tool 10. Are configured to transmit and receive. Therefore, when the user is not in contact with the electric power tool 10, the above signal cannot be transmitted and received. Note that data communication using a human body as a transmission path is performed by transmitting a transmission signal modulated based on data to be transmitted to the human body as disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2001-43322 and the like. Can do. In addition, by using the electrostatic coupling between the power tool body 11 and the human body in contact with the power tool body 11 as a potential reference line, data communication can be performed without being affected by individual differences in human body conductivity. It can be carried out.

  When the above comparison result does not match or the identification code from the authentication device 41 cannot be confirmed because the user does not have the authentication device 41, the authentication circuit 23 allows the user to grant the right to use the tool. It is determined that it does not have. Since the authentication circuit 23 cuts off the operation signal from the switch circuit 21 to the control circuit 22, the motor 16a is stopped (step 65). As a result, even if an unauthorized user tries to use the electric power tool 10, the motor 16a is not driven, so that a deterring effect against theft can be achieved.

Next, the operation of the power tool 10 will be described.
In the electric power tool 10 of the present embodiment, for example, as an existing configuration, the electric power tool 10 in a mode in which the switch circuit 21 and the control circuit 22 can be connected via the signal line 21b is authenticated between both the circuits 21 and 22. An authentication function can be added by electrically connecting the circuit 23. Therefore, when an authentication function is added to the existing electric tool 10, it is not necessary to change the circuit design of the control circuit 22, and an authentication device that can easily add an authentication function to the electric tool 10 can be configured. .

  Further, in the gripping portion 14 of the main body case 15, an authentication circuit 23 that is electrically disposed between the switch circuit 21 and the control circuit 22 is physically disposed between the circuits 21 and 22. . In such a configuration, the lengths of the signal lines 21 b and 23 b for connecting the authentication circuit 23 and the circuits 21 and 22 can be shortened, and the authentication circuit 23 can be easily attached to the power tool 10. In addition, since the authentication circuit 23 is arranged by effectively using the space in the grip portion 14 of the main body case 15, it is possible to reduce the size of the electric tool 10 having an authentication function.

This embodiment has the following effects.
(1) The authentication circuit 23 (authentication part) with which the electric tool 10 is provided transmits / receives information on the right to use the tool to / from the authentication device 41 worn by the user. The authentication circuit 23 is provided separately from the control circuit 22, and is electrically connected between the control circuit 22 and the switch circuit 21 via signal lines 21b and 23b. And the authentication circuit 23 is comprised so that the signal (for example, operation signal) transmitted on the signal wire | line 21b may be passed and interrupted | blocked based on the authentication result regarding a tool use right. In such a configuration, when the authentication circuit 23 is electrically connected between the control circuit 22 and the switch circuit 21, for example, when an authentication function is added to the existing electric tool 10, the control circuit 22. There is no need to change the circuit design. Therefore, an authentication device that can easily add an authentication function to the electric tool 10 can be configured.

  (2) The authentication circuit 23 electrically disposed between the switch circuit 21 and the control circuit 22 is physically disposed between both the circuits 21 and 22. In such a configuration, the lengths of the signal lines 21b and 23b for connecting the authentication circuit 23 and the circuits 21 and 22 can be shortened, and the authentication circuit 23 can be easily attached to the electric power tool 10. .

  In addition, since the authentication circuit 23 is arranged by effectively using the space in the power tool 10 (the grip portion 14 of the main body case 15), it is possible to reduce the size of the power tool 10 having an authentication function.

  (3) The power tool 10 has a configuration in which the authentication circuit 23 is built in the grip 14 of the power tool main body 11, and the main body case 15 is shared with other circuits (control circuit 22, switch circuit 21). In addition, the number of parts such as a case for housing the authentication circuit 23 can be reduced.

  (4) The authentication circuit 23 and the authentication device 41 are configured to transmit and receive a signal related to an identification code using the human body of the user wearing the authentication device 41 as a transmission path. In such a configuration, since the authentication is not performed when the user wearing the authentication device 41 is not in contact with the power tool 10, it is possible to increase the deterrent effect on the theft of the power tool 10.

  (5) The authentication circuit 23 and the control circuit 22 are configured to operate by being supplied with electric power based on an ON operation of a mechanical switch 54 that also serves as a power switch of the electric tool 10. Thereby, power consumption in the authentication circuit 23 and the control circuit 22 can be suppressed.

In addition, you may change embodiment of this invention as follows.
In the above embodiment, the position where the authentication circuit 23 (authentication unit) is provided is an example, and may be configured to be housed in the body 13 or the battery pack 12. Moreover, it is good also as a structure provided in the exterior of the electric tool 10 (main body case 15).

  -Although it does not mention in particular in the said embodiment, it is good also as a structure which implements the authentication by the authentication circuit 23 every predetermined number of times when a user uses (drives) the electric tool 10. FIG. For example, as shown in FIG. 5, when the mechanical switch 54 is turned on (step 71), the authentication circuit 23 is activated (step 72), and the number of authentications held in the storage unit 31 of the authentication circuit 23 is increased by one. (Step 73).

  Next, the authentication circuit 23 compares the number of authentications with a predetermined number for determination stored in the storage unit 31 separately (step 74). If the number of times of authentication is less than the predetermined number, driving of the motor 16a is permitted without performing authentication (without proceeding to step 76) (step 75). On the other hand, when the number of times of authentication is a predetermined number or more, authentication is started. The authentication circuit 23 compares the identification codes (step 76). If the authentication is successful, the authentication circuit 23 resets the number of authentications (step 77), and also permits the motor 16a to be driven (step 77). If the authentication cannot be confirmed, the driving of the motor 16a is prohibited (stopped) (step 78). The above process is repeated every time the user's work is finished and the mechanical switch 54 is turned on again.

  That is, in the work using the power tool 10, it is assumed that the power tool 10 is temporarily removed from the hand and another work is performed. In this case, since it is troublesome to perform authentication every time with the user-side authentication device 41 and the authentication circuit 23 of the power tool 10, the user's actual work can be performed by setting the authentication every predetermined number of times. Thus, the authentication function for the electric power tool 10 can be ensured in a manner that is suitable for the above. The predetermined number of times described above is determined as appropriate according to the actual work.

  The authentication circuit 23 may perform authentication every predetermined time. FIG. 6 shows an example of a processing flow when authentication is performed every predetermined time. In this case, a timer circuit is required.

  As shown in FIG. 6, when the mechanical switch 54 is turned on (step 81), the authentication circuit 23 is activated (step 82). In addition, when the mechanical switch 54 is turned on, if the elapsed time measured by the timer circuit is reset for the first time after the reset (step 86), the elapsed time measurement by the timer circuit is started. If it is already timed, keep it.

  Next, the authentication circuit 23 compares the elapsed time during counting with a predetermined time for determination stored in the storage unit 31 (step 83). The predetermined time is set according to the actual work as in the predetermined number of times. When the elapsed time is shorter than the predetermined time, the driving of the motor 16a is permitted (step 84). On the other hand, if the elapsed time is equal to or longer than the predetermined time, authentication is started. The authentication circuit 23 compares the identification codes (step 85), and resets the elapsed time if the authentication is confirmed (step 86). In this case as well, the drive of the motor 16a is permitted (step 84). If the authentication cannot be confirmed, the driving of the motor 16a is prohibited (stopped) (step 87). Even in such a configuration, it is possible to obtain the same effect as the configuration in which authentication is performed every predetermined number of times.

  In the above-described embodiment, the authentication circuit 23 is configured to switch between passing and blocking the operation signal from the switch circuit 21 to the control circuit 22 based on the authentication result, but is not limited thereto. For example, the authentication circuit 23 may be configured to pass and block the drive signal output from the authentication circuit 23 to the switching element 56 based on the authentication result.

  In the above embodiment, the authentication circuit 23 stores a plurality of identification codes in the storage unit 31, and if the comparison unit 32 matches the identification code from the authentication device 41, the user can It is good also as a structure which judges that it has the usage right. In such a configuration, even when a plurality of users use one electric tool 10 in turn, the user can continue the work without exchanging his / her authentication device 41. .

  In the above-described embodiment, the transmission / reception of a signal related to authentication between the authentication circuit 23 and the authentication device 41 is configured to transmit the human body of the user who has contacted the power tool 10, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, it is good also as a structure which implements authentication using non-contact communication, for example, near field communication according to RFID (Radio Frequency IDentification). In this case, for example, the authentication device 41 is configured as an IC tag, and the authentication circuit 23 is configured as a reader / writer. In such a configuration, the power supply unit 44 of the authentication device 41 can be omitted, and the size of the authentication device 41 can be reduced. Moreover, there is no possibility that the battery will run out in the power supply unit 44.

  Note that the power consumption of the battery pack 12 can be suppressed by configuring the authentication circuit 23 to function as a reader / writer so that communication is not performed when the user is not touching the power tool 10. Furthermore, since it is always ensured that the authentication circuit 23 and the authentication device 41 are within a short distance by checking the user's contact with the electric power tool 10, the wireless output of the authentication circuit 23 can be kept small. This can also reduce power consumption.

  In the above embodiment, the authentication circuit 23 is configured as the authentication side and the authentication device 41 is configured as the authenticated side. However, the authentication circuit 23 may be configured as the authenticated side and the authentication device 41 side may be configured as the authentication side. In this case, for example, the authentication device 41 is configured to transmit an authentication result (tool use right confirmation output) to the authentication circuit 23, and controls the transmission of the operation signal based on the authentication result received by the authentication circuit 23.

  In the above embodiment, the authentication circuit 23 and the control circuit 22 are configured to operate in accordance with the ON operation of the mechanical switch 54 of the switch circuit 21, but are not limited thereto. For example, it is good also as a structure which operate | moves with operation of the rotation direction switch 18 (refer FIG. 1). For example, the authentication circuit 23 and the control circuit 22 are turned off when the rotation direction changeover switch is at the stop position, and the authentication circuit 23 and the control circuit 22 are operated when the rotation direction switch is switched to the forward rotation or reverse rotation position. Even in such a configuration, power consumption can be suppressed.

  Note that the present invention is not limited to the mechanical switch 54 (switch circuit 21) and the rotation direction switching switch described above, and the authentication circuit 23 and the control circuit 22 may be operated in accordance with the operation of other switches.

  In the above embodiment, the authentication circuit 23 and the authentication device 41 may be configured to transmit and receive other information besides the identification code, for example, information for determining the operation of the tool. For example, a configuration may be adopted in which a setting value for limiting the maximum value of the tightening torque of the driver tip tool is transmitted from the authentication device 41 to the authentication circuit 23. In this case, the electric tool 10 is configured to be able to measure the tightening torque of the driver tip tool from the drive current, the rotation speed, and the like of the motor 16a. Then, the authentication circuit 23 compares the set value received from the authentication device 41 with the measured tightening torque, and performs control to stop the motor 16a when the tightening torque reaches the set value. In such a configuration, when the user wears the authentication device 41 in which the setting value (function restriction information) according to the work content is written and performs the work, the possibility of occurrence of overtightening is reduced. it can.

  In addition, for example, a tag capable of storing and transmitting / receiving the above-described function restriction information is provided on a work or the like to be worked, and the function restriction information is received by the user wearing the authentication device 41 on the tag. It is good also as a structure transmitted to the side. In this case, for example, the authentication device 41 stores the received function restriction information in the storage unit 42. When the user performs work on the workpiece, the tightening torque can be limited by transmitting the function restriction information described above from the authentication device 41 to the authentication circuit 23. In such a configuration, when the user touches the work to be worked, information on the tightening torque according to the work can be obtained, and the electric tool 10 capable of performing appropriate work efficiently can be constructed.

  Further, the information transmitted and received by the authentication device 41 and the authentication circuit 23 is not limited to the information described above. For example, in the power tool 10 used for applications other than the tightening operation, function restriction information for limiting the maximum output may be included. . In addition, for example, the time for which the user is permitted to use the electric power tool 10 and the number of times of use may be included.

  In the above-described embodiment, the authentication circuit 23 may make the power tool 10 usable only when it is confirmed that the user wearing the authentication device 41 has the right to use the tool. desirable. In such a structure, the deterrent effect with respect to the theft of the electric tool 10 can be enhanced.

  Further, for example, the control circuit 22 may control the driving of the motor 16a based on the authentication result signal output from the authentication circuit 23. The authentication circuit 23 sends and receives information on the tool use right to and from the authentication device 41 and confirms the tool use right confirmation output (tool use right confirmation output) when the tool use right is confirmed. It is set as the structure which outputs to. The control circuit 22 drives the motor 16a only when the tool usage right confirmation output is obtained from the switch circuit 21. Even in such a configuration, the same effect as described above can be obtained.

  In the above embodiment, the battery pack 12 may be configured to include the authentication circuit 23. For example, the battery pack 12 includes a battery authentication circuit that performs authentication with the authentication device 41. In this case, the battery pack 12 is provided with a power control unit that receives the tool use right confirmation output (tool use right confirmation output) output from the battery authentication circuit and controls the power supply to the power tool 10 side. . In such a configuration, even if a user who does not have the right to use the tool uses the battery pack 12 to perform work, the power supply control unit cuts off the power supply to the electric tool 10 side, thereby using the tool. This can be prohibited, and the deterrent effect against theft of the battery pack 12 can be enhanced.

-In above-mentioned embodiment, although authentication was implemented using the identification code, it is not limited to this, You may use another authentication technique.
In the above embodiment, the configuration of the control circuit 22 may be changed as appropriate. For example, the voltage detection circuit 55 may be omitted.

  In the above embodiment, the power tool 10 is embodied as a drill driver, but other power tools such as an impact driver, an impact wrench, a hammer drill, a vibration drill, a jigsaw, and a sealing gun may be used.

  In the above embodiment, in order to notify the user that the state in which the motor 16a is not driven even when the trigger 24 is pulled is not due to a failure, for example, a display unit such as a liquid crystal display or a light emitting diode on the power tool body 11 It is good also as a structure which alert | reports that by providing.

Next, a technical idea that can be grasped from the above embodiment and another example will be added below.
(A) A power tool including a control circuit for driving and controlling a motor and a switch circuit for outputting an operation signal for driving the motor to the control circuit according to a user's operation is attached to the user. A power tool having an authentication unit that transmits and receives information on the right to use the tool to and from the authentication device,
The said authentication part is comprised so that the authentication regarding the said tool use right may be implemented every predetermined number of times that the said user uses a tool, The electric tool characterized by the above-mentioned.

  According to this configuration, the authentication function for the electric tool is ensured in accordance with the actual work of the user by performing the authentication by the authentication unit every predetermined number of times the tool is used (driven). can do.

(B) Mounted on the user with respect to an electric tool provided with a control circuit for driving and controlling the motor and a switch circuit for outputting an operation signal for driving the motor to the control circuit according to the operation of the user A power tool having an authentication unit that transmits and receives information on the right to use the tool to and from the authentication device,
The power tool according to claim 1, wherein the authentication unit is configured to perform authentication related to the right to use the tool every predetermined time.

According to this configuration, the authentication function for the power tool can be ensured in a form that conforms to the actual work of the user by performing the authentication by the authentication unit every predetermined time.
(C) In the electric tool according to any one of claims 1 to 5 and (a) and (b) above,
The power tool, wherein the authentication unit and the authentication device are configured to transmit and receive a signal for authentication using the human body of the user wearing the authentication device as a transmission path.

According to this configuration, since the authentication is not performed when the user wearing the authentication device is not in contact with the power tool, the effect of suppressing the theft of the power tool can be enhanced.
(D) In the electric power tool according to any one of claims 1 to 5 and (a) and (b) above,
The power tool, wherein the authentication unit and the authentication device are configured to transmit and receive signals by using RFID that is short-range wireless communication.

According to this configuration, the authentication device does not require a power source, and the authentication device can be downsized.
(E) In the electric tool according to any one of claims 1 to 5 and (a) to (d) above,
An electric tool characterized in that the authentication unit included in the electric tool is configured to be an authentication side, and the authentication device is an authenticated side.

According to this configuration, the authentication unit provided in the power tool can be configured as the authentication side, and the authentication device can be configured as the authentication target side.
(F) In the electric tool according to any one of claims 1 to 5 and (a) to (d) above,
The authentication unit included in the electric tool is configured to be an authenticated side, and the authentication device is an authentication side, the authentication unit receives a tool usage right confirmation output from the authentication device, and the tool usage right An electric tool configured to pass and block a signal transmitted on the signal line based on a confirmation output.

According to this structure, the authentication part with which an electric tool is equipped can be comprised as a to-be-authenticated side and an apparatus for authentication can be comprised as an authentication side.
(G) In the electric tool according to any one of claims 1 to 5 and (a) to (f) above,
The electric power tool, wherein the authentication unit is configured to operate by being supplied with electric power based on an ON operation of a mechanical switch that also serves as a power switch of the electric tool.

  According to this configuration, the authentication unit is configured to operate by being supplied with power based on an on operation of a mechanical switch that also serves as a power switch of the electric tool, thereby suppressing power consumption in the authentication unit. it can.

(H) In the electric power tool according to any one of claims 1 to 5 and (a) to (f) above,
The electric power tool, wherein the authentication unit is configured to operate by being supplied with electric power by a rotation direction changeover switch for changing a rotation direction of the motor.

According to this configuration, the authentication unit is configured to operate by being supplied with power based on the operation of the rotation direction changeover switch, so that power consumption in the authentication unit can be suppressed.
(I) In the electric power tool according to any one of claims 1 to 5 and (i) to (h) above,
The authentication unit limits at least one of a maximum tightening torque and a maximum output of the electric tool based on function restriction information transmitted from the authentication device.

According to this configuration, it is possible to reduce a possibility that a situation such as over-tightening occurs by the user wearing the authentication device in which the function restriction information according to the work content is written and performing the work.
(Nu) In the electric tool described in (ri) above,
The authentication device includes a storage unit for storing the function restriction information received from a work to be worked,
The power tool, wherein the authentication unit is configured to receive the function restriction information stored in the storage unit of the authentication device.

  According to this configuration, information on the maximum tightening torque and the maximum output corresponding to the work can be obtained from the work to be worked, and an electric tool capable of performing appropriate work efficiently can be configured.

(Le) In the electric power tool according to any one of claims 1 to 5 and (a) to (nu) above,
The power tool is characterized in that the authentication unit performs control so as to permit transmission of a signal transmitted on the signal line only when it is confirmed that the user has the right to use the tool.

According to this structure, the deterrent effect with respect to the theft of an electric tool can be heightened.
(W) In the electric tool according to claim 6,
The power tool includes a power tool body, and a battery pack that is detachable from the power tool body and supplies driving power to the power tool body.
The battery pack is based on a battery authentication unit that transmits and receives information on the tool usage right to and from the authentication device, and a battery usage right confirmation output from the battery authentication unit or the authentication device. A power tool comprising: a power control unit that controls power supply to the power tool body.

  According to this configuration, even if a user who does not have the right to use the tool attempts to work using the battery pack, the power control unit can block the power supply to the power tool side, thereby prohibiting the use of the tool. The deterrent effect against theft of the battery pack can be enhanced.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Electric tool, 16a ... Motor, 21 ... Switch circuit, 21b, 23b ... Signal line, 22 ... Control circuit, 41 ... Authentication apparatus.

Claims (6)

A control circuit that controls driving of the motor; and a switch circuit that outputs a signal for driving the motor to the control circuit in response to a user's operation. The control circuit and the switch circuit have signal lines connected to each other. An electric tool having an authentication unit that transmits and receives information on a right to use a tool with an authentication device attached to the user for the electric tool connected through
The authentication unit is provided separately from the control circuit, and is electrically connected via the signal line between the control circuit and the switch circuit, and based on the authentication result regarding the tool use right An electric tool configured to pass and block a signal transmitted on a signal line. The power tool according to claim 1,
The power tool characterized in that the authentication unit is physically arranged between the control circuit and the switch circuit in the power tool. In the electric tool according to claim 1 or 2,
The said authentication part is comprised so that the authentication regarding the said tool use right may be implemented every predetermined number of times that the said user uses a tool, The electric tool characterized by the above-mentioned. In the electric tool according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
The power tool according to claim 1, wherein the authentication unit is configured to perform authentication related to the right to use the tool every predetermined time. In the electric tool according to any one of claims 1 to 4,
The power tool characterized in that the authentication unit is built in the power tool. A control circuit that controls driving of the motor; and a switch circuit that outputs a signal for driving the motor to the control circuit in response to a user's operation. The control circuit and the switch circuit have signal lines connected to each other. An electric power tool authentication apparatus having an authentication unit that transmits and receives information on the right to use a tool to and from an authentication device attached to the user, with respect to the electric tool connected through the power tool,
The authentication unit is provided separately from the control circuit, and is electrically connected via the signal line between the control circuit and the switch circuit, and based on the authentication result regarding the tool use right An authentication device for an electric power tool configured to pass and block a signal transmitted on a signal line.