US20230200310A1 - Battery-powered backpack blower - Google Patents
Battery-powered backpack blower Download PDFInfo
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- US20230200310A1 US20230200310A1 US18/111,724 US202318111724A US2023200310A1 US 20230200310 A1 US20230200310 A1 US 20230200310A1 US 202318111724 A US202318111724 A US 202318111724A US 2023200310 A1 US2023200310 A1 US 2023200310A1
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- battery
- assembly
- blower
- backpack blower
- volute
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- 230000000712 assembly Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000000429 assembly Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004888 barrier function Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000007664 blowing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000004140 cleaning Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000002485 combustion reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000005611 electricity Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000002708 enhancing effect Effects 0.000 description 1
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- 230000000284 resting effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000009423 ventilation Methods 0.000 description 1
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Classifications
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
- A01G—HORTICULTURE; CULTIVATION OF VEGETABLES, FLOWERS, RICE, FRUIT, VINES, HOPS OR SEAWEED; FORESTRY; WATERING
- A01G20/00—Cultivation of turf, lawn or the like; Apparatus or methods therefor
- A01G20/40—Apparatus for cleaning the lawn or grass surface
- A01G20/43—Apparatus for cleaning the lawn or grass surface for sweeping, collecting or disintegrating lawn debris
- A01G20/47—Vacuum or blower devices
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L5/00—Structural features of suction cleaners
- A47L5/12—Structural features of suction cleaners with power-driven air-pumps or air-compressors, e.g. driven by motor vehicle engine vacuum
- A47L5/14—Structural features of suction cleaners with power-driven air-pumps or air-compressors, e.g. driven by motor vehicle engine vacuum cleaning by blowing-off, also combined with suction cleaning
Definitions
- the invention relates to a blower. More particularly, the invention relates to a battery-powered backpack blower, having a rear mounted volute assembly for facilitating balance and enhancing user operation.
- Blowers are generally used for cleaning and/or removing light objects from surfaces, such as blowing away fallen leaves, and/or light debris, for example.
- Conventional backpack or back mounted blowers generally include a back plate, which supports the blower's components on the user's back.
- Current gas-powered backpack blowers include an internal combustion engine and a blower section driven by the engine.
- One major disadvantage of gas-powered blowers is that during operation, gas-powered blowers have a propensity to release undesirable emissions into the environment. Additionally, because the gas-powered blowers require gas, they generally require the user maintain or store an extra supply of fuel for the engine and repeatedly refill the blower gas tank. This can not only be costly, but may also have a negative impact on the environment.
- a backpack blower having an obstruction-free air intake to allow the free flow of air through the blower to increase its efficiency.
- This is even more important when considering backpack blower powered by a battery, which have a limited supply of energy.
- These batteries can be one of the heavier components in the blower, and so it is important to position the battery at an optimal position which reduces physical strain on the user during operation.
- the battery-powered backpack blower includes a back support assembly including a back plate and a harness assembly configured to permit a user to mount the blower to the user's back.
- the backpack blower further includes a volute assembly configured to generate air flow through the backpack blower, which includes a fan member to generate air flow therethrough.
- the backpack blower further includes a housing assembly provided intermediate to the volute assembly and back support assembly.
- the housing assembly includes a first battery well configured to hold a battery.
- the motor assembly is secured to the housing assembly and operatively connected to the fan member.
- the backpack blower further includes a tube assembly operatively connected to the volute assembly via an elbow member, to receive airflow from the fan member at a first end and to blow air out of a second end.
- the volute assembly has a rearward facing aperture defining an air inlet configured to permit air to flow to the fan member.
- the battery-powered backpack blower further comprises a top guard plate member extending from a top portion of the housing assembly over a top portion of the volute assembly to provide protection to the volute assembly.
- a floor plate is connected to the back plate and configured to protect the housing assembly. Top guard plate member and floor plate extend beyond the volute assembly protect a back portion of the volute assembly.
- the back plate assembly includes a top plate portion, a bottom plate portion, and a first intermediate member and second intermediate member connecting the top plate portion and bottom plate portion.
- the first battery when a first battery is positioned in the first battery well of the backpack blower, the first battery is positioned generally centrally in the lateral direction to the backpack blower.
- the lateral center of gravity of the blower is substantially midway between the sides of the blower.
- the housing assembly includes a second battery well configured to further hold a second battery, wherein the first battery well is positioned generally above the second battery well.
- the first battery and second battery are positioned generally centrally in the lateral direction to the backpack blower.
- the housing assembly of the backpack blower includes a motor chamber positioned between the first battery well and the second battery well.
- the first battery well and second battery well may each have openings formed on the same side of the housing assembly.
- the backpack blower is configured such that when the backpack blower is resting in an upright position on a surface, the first battery well is further rearward than the second battery and when the backpack blower is secured to a user, the first battery well is positioned above the second battery well so as to be equidistant from the user's back.
- FIG. 1 A is a front perspective view of the battery-powered backpack blower
- FIG. 1 B is a rear perspective view of the battery-powered backpack blower
- FIG. 2 is a front view of the battery-powered backpack blower
- FIG. 3 is an exploded view of the battery-powered backpack blower
- FIG. 4 A is a side view of the battery-powered backpack blower illustrating the tube member connected to a volute assembly
- FIG. 4 B is a side view of the battery-powered backpack blower illustrating a housing assembly intermediately positioned between a back support assembly and the volute assembly;
- FIG. 5 is a top sectional view of the battery-powered backpack blower of FIG. 1 , showing the longitudinal and lateral center of gravity of the blower;
- FIG. 6 A is a side sectional view of the battery-powered backpack blower illustrating the relationship between the housing assembly and the volute assembly;
- FIG. 6 B is a perspective sectional view of the battery-powered back pack blower illustrating the relationship between the motor assembly and electrical components;
- FIG. 6 C is a perspective sectional view of the housing assembly of the battery-powered backpack blower, illustrating the positioning of the motor assembly and belt drive system;
- FIG. 6 D is a perspective view of the motor and belt drive system of the battery-powered backpack blower.
- FIG. 7 is detailed view of the top guard plate affixed to the housing assembly of the battery-powered backpack
- FIG. 8 A is a side view of the battery-powered backpack blower illustrating the weight balance of the blower on the ground;
- FIG. 8 B is a side view of the battery-powered backpack blower depicted on the back of a user
- FIG. 9 is a detailed view of a trigger mechanism of the battery-powered backpack blower.
- a battery-powered backpack blower with a compact configuration having a balanced mass and center-of-gravity that distributes and reduces the weight applied to the user's body during usage. Placing the center of gravity of the battery-powered backpack blower lower and close to the user's back increases the user's comfort. It is further desirable to provide a battery-powered backpack blower with a volute assembly and a fan intake positioned at the rear of the blower to optimize air intake efficiency and overall blower performance during operation.
- a battery-powered backpack blower having a balanced compact configuration with a battery housing assembly and motor assembly positioned close to the user's back and between a volute assembly and back plate to further balance and distribute the mass of the battery and motor during operation.
- FIGS. 1 A and 1 B provide front and rear perspective views of an embodiment of the battery-powered backpack blower, generally designated by the reference numeral 100 .
- the battery-powered backpack blower 100 generally a back support assembly 114 configured to mount the battery-powered backpack blower 100 on a user's back.
- the back support assembly includes a strap assembly 102 and a back plate member 106 .
- the strap assembly 102 generally includes one or more straps 104 , which extend generally about a frontal portion of the backpack blower 100 and are configured to engage the body and/or shoulders of a user, similar to that of a conventional backpack.
- the straps 104 may be adjustable, permitting a user to raise, lower, and/or tighten the position of the backpack blower 100 position on the user's back, thus permitting the battery-powered backpack blower to accommodate a variety of different sized users.
- the back support assembly 114 further includes the strap assembly 102 and a back plate member 106 including an integrally formed top plate portion 110 configured for engagement with an upper part of the user's back, and a lower plate portion 108 , configured for engagement with a lower part of the user's back.
- the back plate member 106 and respective plate portions 108 , 110 may be ergonomically configured to absorb forces exerted on the user by the weight of the backpack blower.
- the top plate portion 110 and lower plate portion 108 may be connected by one or more intermediate members 109 a and 109 b .
- the intermediate members 109 a and 109 b extend generally between the top plate portion 110 and lower plate portion 108 , thus providing additional stability to the back plate 106 .
- the back plate member 106 may be formed from one piece, for example, by molding a plastic.
- a plastic back plate member, while being lightweight, would help provide structural rigidity to the blower and help shield the user's back from any heat and vibration.
- an aperture 111 may be formed between the intermediate members 109 a , and 109 b to provide flexibility to the back plate member 106 , as well as ventilation for air to flow between the back support assembly 114 and other components of the backpack blower 100 . Additionally, the aperture 111 in the back plate member 106 reduces the weight and the overall cost of materials of the back plate member 106 may be reduced.
- the backpack blower 100 further includes a volute assembly 118 configured to distribute air flow received from the environment through the battery-powered backpack blower 100 .
- the volute assembly 118 may be positioned generally at the rear portion of the battery-powered backpack blower 100 , generally on the back outer surface. As such, air flows into the backpack blower 100 through the back of the backpack blower 100 .
- the volute-assembly 118 may also have a non-volute configuration, such as a blower assembly and/or other structures, which include a housing, fan, an opening and a motor, that are capable of generating and guiding airflow through the blower 100 .
- An elbow member 154 is connected to the volute assembly 118 , and configured to receive a tube member connection, which will be discussed later herein.
- the battery-powered backpack blower 100 further includes a housing assembly 112 , which may be positioned intermediate to the back support assembly 114 and the volute assembly 118 .
- the housing assembly 112 is configured to contain components of the backpack blower 100 such as, one or more batteries and/or a motor assembly, for example.
- the housing assembly 112 is configured within the backpack blower 100 to position the battery and motor proximate to the user's back. By placing the relatively heavier components, such as the battery and the motor closer to the user's back the torque forces required for the user to rotate with the backpack blower 100 on his/her back are reduced. This reduces the overall energy required by the user to operate the battery-powered backpack blower 100 . This configuration increases the user's comfort during operation. Additional details regarding the housing assembly 112 configuration and features, will be further described later herein.
- FIG. 3 illustrates an exploded view of the battery-powered backpack blower 100 .
- the volute assembly 118 generally includes a first volute portion 120 and a second volute portion 122 , which are configured to cooperatively form a unitary structure.
- a fan member 134 is disposed centrally within the volute assembly 118 for generating air flow through the volute assembly 118 .
- the fan member 134 may be a radial fan, such that air that enters the volute assembly from the environment along an axis of the fan, and exits the fan in a radial direction.
- the second volute portion 122 includes one or more inlet openings 115 to facilitate air flow into the volute assembly 118 .
- the opening 115 is centrally located about the volute portion 122 , at the rear of the battery-powered backpack blower 100 .
- the fan member 134 is disposed in the volute assembly 118 , proximate to the opening 115 , which permits air to flow from the exterior of the backpack blower 100 , through the opening 115 and fan member 134 , and into the volute assembly 118 during operation.
- the first volute portion 120 and second volute portion 122 each include respective interior surfaces 140 , 141 , which cooperatively define a chamber 142 for air generated by the fan member 134 to flow through.
- a cover 136 which may have a reticulated cover configuration prevents debris above a certain size from entering the opening 115 during operation.
- the backpack blower 100 is shown relative to a coordinate system along the (x) axis, (y) axis and (z) axis.
- the longitudinal center of gravity of the backpack blower 100 is represented along the (x) axis
- the lateral center of gravity of the backpack blower 100 is represented along the (y) axis
- the vertical center of gravity is represented along the (z) axis.
- the housing assembly 112 is positioned intermediate to the back support assembly 114 and the volute assembly 118 .
- the housing assembly 112 generally includes a first housing portion 124 and a second housing portion 128 which cooperatively form the housing assembly 112 .
- the housing assembly 112 may be fixedly secured to the top plate portion 110 and lower plate portion 108 of the back support assembly 114 .
- the housing assembly 112 generally includes one or more battery wells, which may include a top well 132 a and a bottom well 132 b , configured to receive and support one or more respective batteries 126 a and 126 b therein.
- the housing assembly 112 may also be configured to include only one battery well for receiving only one battery.
- the housing assembly 112 may provide more than two battery wells to support multiple batteries.
- battery wells 132 a , 132 b provide openings 133 a , 133 b positioned generally on the same side of the housing assembly 112 , thereby facilitating the insertion of the respective batteries 126 a , and 126 b .
- the battery wells 132 a , 132 b and respective openings 133 a , 133 b may be provided in virtually any configuration, including with each respective battery well 132 a , 132 b provided on opposing sides of the housing assembly 112 .
- the first housing portion 124 is configured for fastenable engagement with the back plate member 106
- a second housing portion 128 is configured for fastenable engagement with the volute assembly 118
- the housing assembly 112 further includes a motor chamber 130 .
- the motor chamber 130 is positioned vertically intermediate to the first battery well 132 a and second battery well 132 b and configured to receive and support a motor assembly 138 therein.
- electronic components are also positioned in the first cavity 130 .
- the electrical components may include a controller 180 (shown in FIG. 3 ), which may be programmed to receive a signal from a joystick-like control assembly 170 (shown in FIGS. 4 B ) to control a motor 150 and power distribution from the respective batteries 126 a , 126 b.
- the motor assembly 138 generally includes a motor 150 and motor case 162 configured to contain the motor 150 .
- the motor assembly 138 further includes a belt drive system 144 (as shown in FIGS. 6 A- 6 D ), and a pulley housing 164 configured to contain a second pulley 146 .
- the motor 150 is operatively connected to the fan member 134 to provide rotation thereto.
- the motor assembly 138 may be positioned in the motor chamber 130 of the housing assembly 112 .
- the electric motor 150 is operatively connected to a belt drive system 144 .
- the belt drive system 144 generally includes a first or motor drive shaft member 161 having a first pulley 147 operatively connected to the motor 150 .
- a belt 142 operatively connects the first pulley 147 to the second pulley 146 , which is connected to a second shaft member 160 of the fan member 134 . As such the first pulley 147 and second pulley 146 engage the belt 142 to drive the belt drive system 144 .
- first pulley 147 and/or second pulley 146 may each have teeth and the belt 142 may have ridges. As such, the first pulley 147 and second pulley 146 engages ridges provided on the belt 142 , in order to drive the belt drive system 144 . Operation of the motor assembly 138 is controlled by the control assembly 170 via the controller 180 . Further details regarding the operation of the control assembly 170 and controller 180 will be further discussed later herein
- FIGS. 5 and 6 A- 6 D further illustrate the motor assembly 138 positioned horizontally within the motor chamber 130 .
- FIGS. 1 B and 6 A shows the backpack blower 100 further includes a top guard plate 166 , which is removably connectable to a top portion 158 of the housing assembly 112 , which is the assembly of housing portions 124 and 128 . Additionally a floor plate 168 is removably connectable to a bottom portion of the back plate 106 at the lower plate portion 108 and attached to the housing assembly 112 first housing portion 128 and second housing portion 124 .
- the top guard plate 166 is configured to cover a top portion of the housing assembly 112 , as well as the volute assembly 118 .
- the top guard plate 166 and floor plate 168 cooperatively provide a protective barrier for the housing assembly 112 such that in cases in which the blower 100 is dropped or otherwise thrown around during transport and storage, the housing assembly 112 and volute assembly 118 and intake cover 136 are not damaged.
- the top guard plate extends generally outward over the housing assembly 112 and volute assembly 118 , and curves in a generally downward to protect the top portion 176 of the volute assembly 118 in the event that the backpack blower 100 is accidentally dropped.
- the top guard plate 166 may be removably connected to a top portion of the housing assembly 112 , permitting a user to replace the top guard plate 166 in cases in which the top guard plate 166 is damaged.
- the top guard plate 166 may also be integrally formed with the housing portion 112 .
- the floor plate 168 also provides a convenient base for supporting the battery-powered backpack blower 100 in an upright position when placed on a surface, such as the ground or a table, for example. Similar to the top guard plate, the floor plate 168 may be formed integrally with the back plate 106 or housing assembly 112 , or may be formed separately and attached to the back plate 106 for easy replacement in the event of damage or wear and tear. The top guard plate 166 and floor plate 168 both may extend beyond the volute assembly 118 to cooperatively provide additional protection to the volute assembly 118 . For example, if the battery-powered backpack blower 100 is placed with the volute assembly 118 down, the top guard plate 166 and floor plate 168 protect the volute assembly 118 and supports the battery-powered backpack blower 100 .
- FIGS. 8 A and 8 B illustrate the weight of the back pack blower acting on the user's back and shoulders due to gravitational forces and the moment forces (FM) which would tend to pull the blower away from the user's back.
- the heaviest components of the battery-powered backpack blower 100 are the batteries 126 a , 126 b and the motor 150 that are located adjacent the back plate 106 so that moment forces are reduced. As shown in FIG.
- the batteries line up against the user's back to position the batteries as close to the user as possible and reduce the forces acting on the user's back as discussed above. This means that it is beneficial to have the distance of the center of gravity of the backpack blower 100 from the user's back in the x direction to be as small as possible.
- the back plate 106 may be angled from the vertical. With the angled back plate 106 , the two batteries 126 a and 126 b are not directly aligned with one another vertically, but rather the top battery 126 a is further rearward longitudinally towards the volute assembly 118 than the lower battery 126 b , which is closer to the back plate 106 .
- This offset configuration moves the weight of the overall blower 100 rearward slightly in this configuration, which helps to prevent the backpack blower 100 from tipping forward when sitting on a relatively flat surface.
- the floor plate 168 is positioned at approximately 5 degrees relative to the (x) axis.
- the center of gravity (CoG) of the backpack blower 100 including the two batteries 126 a , 126 b is approximately 140 millimeters from the user's back in the direction of the (x) axis. Further, the center of gravity of the back pack blower 100 including the two batteries 126 a , 126 b is approximately 230 millimeters from the bottom of the back pack blower 100 in direction of the (z) axis. Notably, all of the center of gravity (CoG) measurements represented herein, with respect to the battery-powered backpack blower 100 , do not include attachment of the tube assembly 148 to the backpack blower 100 .
- another advantage of the housing assembly 112 and battery 126 configuration is that by positioning one battery 126 or, in a dual battery configuration both batteries 126 a , 126 b , horizontally and generally central with respect to the back plate 106 , the mass of the battery 126 or batteries 126 a , 126 b is spread horizontally across the width of the backpack blower 100 .
- the lateral center of gravity is at BL as shown in FIG. 5 , and the addition of one or two batteries results in the lateral locations of BL staying the same.
- the battery's lateral center of gravity is aligned with the lateral location of BL.
- both batteries 126 a , 126 b lateral center of gravity are aligned with the lateral location of BL. Further as shown in FIG. 8 A , the center of gravity of the respective batteries BT 1 and BT 2 are provided close to the user's back in the direction of the x-axis, reducing torque forces acting on the user.
- the center of gravity of the battery 126 a is approximately 128 millimeters from a lower outer edge of the back plate 106 relative to the (x) axis.
- the center of gravity of the battery 126 a is approximately 330 millimeters from the lower edge of the floor plate 168 relative to the (z) axis.
- the center of gravity of the battery 126 b is approximately 116 millimeters from the lower outer edge of the back plate 106 relative to the (x) axis.
- the center of gravity of the battery 126 b is approximately 89 millimeters from the lower edge of the floor plate 168 relative to the (z) axis.
- the center of gravity along the y-axis, at BL is located substantially in the center of the battery-powered backpack blower 100 in the lateral direction.
- the central location of BL permits a user to support the blower 100 on his/her back without torque forces from the blower 100 pulling the user in a particular direction.
- center of gravity for the battery-powered backpack blower 100
- other center of gravity locations for the backpack blower 100 may result as the configuration of the backpack blower 100 varies. While positioning the batteries and the electric motor, which are generally the heaviest components of the backpack blower 100 , close to the user's back provides the benefit of greater user comfort, because the overall center of gravity of the backpack blower 100 is closer to the user. Further, because the two batteries are positioned to extend generally horizontally across the user's back, the battery weight is distributed relatively evenly on each of the user's shoulders and back.
- this maintains the lateral center of gravity of the battery-powered backpack blower 100 generally in the same location, regardless of whether there are zero, one, or two batteries inserted in the battery-powered backpack blower 100 .
- the location of the batteries and the electric motor results in the volute and fan member being positioned generally at the rear of the battery-powered backpack blower 100 farthest from the user.
- the volute and the fan member are among the lighter components, this allows for the center of gravity of the battery-powered backpack blower 100 to be closer to the user. Further, in this arrangement, a larger air intake area for the volute is possible resulting in greater airflow.
- a battery-powered backpack blower configuration with the electric motor and batteries nearest the back of the user, with the batteries extending horizontally, and the volute and fan member located farthest from the back of the user provides the beneficial center of gravity described herein, as well as improving air flow into the battery-powered backpack blower 100 .
- the backpack blower 100 further include a tube assembly 148 , which is operatively connected to the volute assembly 118 and receives air flow therefrom.
- the tube assembly 148 generally includes one or more detachable tube members 152 having an elongated configuration, a flexible member 156 , providing the user the flexibility to move and point the end portion of the tube member 152 to direct the air flowing out of the tube member 152 .
- the tube assembly 148 is positioned to travel along the housing assembly 112 on a side opposing the openings for the battery wells 132 a , 132 b . It is however contemplated that the tube assembly 148 may be provided on either side of housing assembly 112 of the blower 100 .
- the battery-powered backpack blower 100 further includes a control assembly 170 which permits a user to control the overall operation of the battery-powered backpack blower 100 , including the speed of the fan member 134 .
- the control assembly 170 may be connected directly to the tube assembly 148 using a cuffing member 182 which attaches around the tube member 152 .
- the control assembly 170 generally includes a variable speed trigger 172 and a momentary switch member 174 in communication with the controller 180 .
- variable speed trigger 172 allows the user to operate the motor 150 , and thus the blower 100 , at selected speeds. By depressing the trigger 172 , a signal is sent to the controller 180 causing the motor 150 to move at the selected speed. To set the blower 100 at that selected speed, the user then pushes or engages the momentary switch member 174 , which sends a signal to the controller 180 locking the motor 150 at that selected set speed.
- the user may further depress/engage the trigger 172 , and the speed of the motor 150 and fan increases until the trigger 172 is released.
- the motor 150 , fan and blower return to the selected set speed until the momentary switch is disengaged, turning off the speed control.
- One advantage of this setup is that it is easy for the user to control, and it is intuitive as it functions very similar to that of a car cruise control, which many users will be familiar with.
- the user may also operate the battery-powered blower at a selected speed by depressing and holding the trigger 172 at a selected position
- control assembly 170 also includes a battery control switch 178 provided thereon.
- the battery control switch 178 is in communication with the controller 180 and is provided to permit the user to selectively switch between the batteries 126 a , 126 b , in the event that one of the batteries were to run out of charge or malfunction.
- the electronic components include a controller 180 which directs the one or more batteries 126 a , 126 b , upon user prompt at the control assembly 170 , to provide electricity to the motor assembly 138 .
- the controller 180 may be programmed such that only a single battery 126 is delivering power to the motor assembly 138 at any time.
- the advantage of this mode of operation is that it allows a user to reduce the weight of the battery-powered backpack blower 100 by inserting only a single battery 126 a , 126 b at a time. If the user desires to operate with an extended runtime, he or she may insert both batteries 126 a , 126 b . Further, once one of the batteries 126 becomes low on power, the user via the controller 180 may engage a battery selector to switch to between the batteries.
- the battery wells 132 a , 132 b may each include sensors that detect the presence of the respective batteries 126 a , 126 b and send a signal to the controller 180 . As such, the controller 180 selectively receives power from whichever battery is present in its respective battery well 132 a 132 b.
- the backpack blower 100 may include one or more sensors to detect the power levels of the respective batteries 126 a , 126 b and send a signal to the controller 180 .
- the controller 180 may select which of the batteries 126 a , 126 b to receive power from, based on the respective detected power levels of the batteries 126 a , 126 b.
Abstract
The battery-powered backpack blower includes a back support assembly including a back plate configured to permit a user to mount the blower to the user's back, and a volute assembly including a first volute portion and a second volute portion. The backpack blower further includes a housing assembly including a battery assembly and a motor assembly therein, the housing assembly is provided intermediate to the back assembly and the volute assembly.
Description
- The invention relates to a blower. More particularly, the invention relates to a battery-powered backpack blower, having a rear mounted volute assembly for facilitating balance and enhancing user operation.
- Blowers are generally used for cleaning and/or removing light objects from surfaces, such as blowing away fallen leaves, and/or light debris, for example. Conventional backpack or back mounted blowers generally include a back plate, which supports the blower's components on the user's back. Current gas-powered backpack blowers include an internal combustion engine and a blower section driven by the engine. One major disadvantage of gas-powered blowers is that during operation, gas-powered blowers have a propensity to release undesirable emissions into the environment. Additionally, because the gas-powered blowers require gas, they generally require the user maintain or store an extra supply of fuel for the engine and repeatedly refill the blower gas tank. This can not only be costly, but may also have a negative impact on the environment.
- Most gas-powered blowers are configured with a volute and fan member positioned directly against the back of the user. In this configuration, the fan intake is often provided against the back of the user with the air entering from the sides. One disadvantage of positioning the fan air intake on the side of the blower is that the size of the air intake vent is relatively limited. The limited vent size limits the overall flow rate of air through the blower, and thus limits the blower's performance and efficiency.
- Therefore, it would be desirable to have a backpack blower having an obstruction-free air intake to allow the free flow of air through the blower to increase its efficiency. This is even more important when considering backpack blower powered by a battery, which have a limited supply of energy. These batteries can be one of the heavier components in the blower, and so it is important to position the battery at an optimal position which reduces physical strain on the user during operation. To optimize the user's experience and reduce user fatigue during usage, it is important to balance the mass of the battery, and other heavier blower components, thus reducing the torque forces required by the user during operation.
- In light of the present need for a battery-powered blower with a compact configuration, a brief summary of various exemplary embodiments is presented. Some simplifications and omissions may be made in the following summary, which is intended to highlight and introduce some aspects of the various exemplary embodiments, but not to limit the scope of the invention. Detailed descriptions of a preferred exemplary embodiment adequate to allow those of ordinary skill in the art to make and use the inventive concepts will follow in later sections.
- The battery-powered backpack blower includes a back support assembly including a back plate and a harness assembly configured to permit a user to mount the blower to the user's back. The backpack blower further includes a volute assembly configured to generate air flow through the backpack blower, which includes a fan member to generate air flow therethrough. The backpack blower further includes a housing assembly provided intermediate to the volute assembly and back support assembly. The housing assembly includes a first battery well configured to hold a battery. The motor assembly is secured to the housing assembly and operatively connected to the fan member.
- In further embodiments, the backpack blower further includes a tube assembly operatively connected to the volute assembly via an elbow member, to receive airflow from the fan member at a first end and to blow air out of a second end.
- In further various embodiments, the volute assembly has a rearward facing aperture defining an air inlet configured to permit air to flow to the fan member.
- In further various embodiments, the battery-powered backpack blower further comprises a top guard plate member extending from a top portion of the housing assembly over a top portion of the volute assembly to provide protection to the volute assembly. A floor plate is connected to the back plate and configured to protect the housing assembly. Top guard plate member and floor plate extend beyond the volute assembly protect a back portion of the volute assembly.
- In further various embodiments, the back plate assembly includes a top plate portion, a bottom plate portion, and a first intermediate member and second intermediate member connecting the top plate portion and bottom plate portion.
- In further various embodiments, when a first battery is positioned in the first battery well of the backpack blower, the first battery is positioned generally centrally in the lateral direction to the backpack blower.
- In further various embodiments, the lateral center of gravity of the blower is substantially midway between the sides of the blower.
- In further various embodiments, the housing assembly includes a second battery well configured to further hold a second battery, wherein the first battery well is positioned generally above the second battery well. When the first and second batteries are positioned in the respective battery well, the first battery and second battery are positioned generally centrally in the lateral direction to the backpack blower.
- In further various embodiments, the housing assembly of the backpack blower includes a motor chamber positioned between the first battery well and the second battery well. The first battery well and second battery well may each have openings formed on the same side of the housing assembly.
- In further various embodiments, the backpack blower is configured such that when the backpack blower is resting in an upright position on a surface, the first battery well is further rearward than the second battery and when the backpack blower is secured to a user, the first battery well is positioned above the second battery well so as to be equidistant from the user's back.
- In order to better understand various exemplary embodiments, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, wherein:
-
FIG. 1A . is a front perspective view of the battery-powered backpack blower; -
FIG. 1B is a rear perspective view of the battery-powered backpack blower; -
FIG. 2 is a front view of the battery-powered backpack blower; -
FIG. 3 is an exploded view of the battery-powered backpack blower; -
FIG. 4A is a side view of the battery-powered backpack blower illustrating the tube member connected to a volute assembly; -
FIG. 4B is a side view of the battery-powered backpack blower illustrating a housing assembly intermediately positioned between a back support assembly and the volute assembly; -
FIG. 5 is a top sectional view of the battery-powered backpack blower ofFIG. 1 , showing the longitudinal and lateral center of gravity of the blower; -
FIG. 6A is a side sectional view of the battery-powered backpack blower illustrating the relationship between the housing assembly and the volute assembly; -
FIG. 6B is a perspective sectional view of the battery-powered back pack blower illustrating the relationship between the motor assembly and electrical components; -
FIG. 6C is a perspective sectional view of the housing assembly of the battery-powered backpack blower, illustrating the positioning of the motor assembly and belt drive system; -
FIG. 6D is a perspective view of the motor and belt drive system of the battery-powered backpack blower. -
FIG. 7 is detailed view of the top guard plate affixed to the housing assembly of the battery-powered backpack -
FIG. 8A is a side view of the battery-powered backpack blower illustrating the weight balance of the blower on the ground; -
FIG. 8B is a side view of the battery-powered backpack blower depicted on the back of a user; -
FIG. 9 is a detailed view of a trigger mechanism of the battery-powered backpack blower. - In view of the aforementioned battery-powered backpack blower configurations, it is desirable to provide a battery-powered backpack blower with a compact configuration having a balanced mass and center-of-gravity that distributes and reduces the weight applied to the user's body during usage. Placing the center of gravity of the battery-powered backpack blower lower and close to the user's back increases the user's comfort. It is further desirable to provide a battery-powered backpack blower with a volute assembly and a fan intake positioned at the rear of the blower to optimize air intake efficiency and overall blower performance during operation.
- Further, it is desirable to provide a battery-powered backpack blower having a balanced compact configuration with a battery housing assembly and motor assembly positioned close to the user's back and between a volute assembly and back plate to further balance and distribute the mass of the battery and motor during operation.
- For simplicity and illustrative purposes, the principles are shown by way of examples of systems and methods described. In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments It will be apparent however, to one of ordinary skill in the art, that the embodiments may be practiced without limitation to these specific details. In other instances, well known methods and structures are not described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure understanding of the examples.
- Referring now to the drawings, wherein the illustrations are for purposes of describing one or more embodiments and not for the purposes of limiting the same,
FIGS. 1A and 1B provide front and rear perspective views of an embodiment of the battery-powered backpack blower, generally designated by thereference numeral 100. The battery-poweredbackpack blower 100 generally aback support assembly 114 configured to mount the battery-poweredbackpack blower 100 on a user's back. The back support assembly includes astrap assembly 102 and aback plate member 106. Thestrap assembly 102 generally includes one ormore straps 104, which extend generally about a frontal portion of thebackpack blower 100 and are configured to engage the body and/or shoulders of a user, similar to that of a conventional backpack. Thestraps 104 may be adjustable, permitting a user to raise, lower, and/or tighten the position of thebackpack blower 100 position on the user's back, thus permitting the battery-powered backpack blower to accommodate a variety of different sized users. - As shown in
FIGS. 1A-1B andFIG. 2 , theback support assembly 114 further includes thestrap assembly 102 and aback plate member 106 including an integrally formedtop plate portion 110 configured for engagement with an upper part of the user's back, and alower plate portion 108, configured for engagement with a lower part of the user's back. Theback plate member 106 andrespective plate portions top plate portion 110 andlower plate portion 108 may be connected by one or moreintermediate members intermediate members top plate portion 110 andlower plate portion 108, thus providing additional stability to theback plate 106. Theback plate member 106 may be formed from one piece, for example, by molding a plastic. A plastic back plate member, while being lightweight, would help provide structural rigidity to the blower and help shield the user's back from any heat and vibration. - As shown, an
aperture 111 may be formed between theintermediate members back plate member 106, as well as ventilation for air to flow between theback support assembly 114 and other components of thebackpack blower 100. Additionally, theaperture 111 in theback plate member 106 reduces the weight and the overall cost of materials of theback plate member 106 may be reduced. - As illustrated in
FIG. 1B , thebackpack blower 100 further includes avolute assembly 118 configured to distribute air flow received from the environment through the battery-poweredbackpack blower 100. As depicted, thevolute assembly 118 may be positioned generally at the rear portion of the battery-poweredbackpack blower 100, generally on the back outer surface. As such, air flows into thebackpack blower 100 through the back of thebackpack blower 100. Notably, it is contemplated that the volute-assembly 118 may also have a non-volute configuration, such as a blower assembly and/or other structures, which include a housing, fan, an opening and a motor, that are capable of generating and guiding airflow through theblower 100. Anelbow member 154 is connected to thevolute assembly 118, and configured to receive a tube member connection, which will be discussed later herein. - The battery-powered
backpack blower 100 further includes ahousing assembly 112, which may be positioned intermediate to theback support assembly 114 and thevolute assembly 118. Thehousing assembly 112 is configured to contain components of thebackpack blower 100 such as, one or more batteries and/or a motor assembly, for example. Thehousing assembly 112 is configured within thebackpack blower 100 to position the battery and motor proximate to the user's back. By placing the relatively heavier components, such as the battery and the motor closer to the user's back the torque forces required for the user to rotate with thebackpack blower 100 on his/her back are reduced. This reduces the overall energy required by the user to operate the battery-poweredbackpack blower 100. This configuration increases the user's comfort during operation. Additional details regarding thehousing assembly 112 configuration and features, will be further described later herein. -
FIG. 3 illustrates an exploded view of the battery-poweredbackpack blower 100. Thevolute assembly 118 generally includes afirst volute portion 120 and asecond volute portion 122, which are configured to cooperatively form a unitary structure. Afan member 134 is disposed centrally within thevolute assembly 118 for generating air flow through thevolute assembly 118. - The
fan member 134 may be a radial fan, such that air that enters the volute assembly from the environment along an axis of the fan, and exits the fan in a radial direction. Thesecond volute portion 122 includes one ormore inlet openings 115 to facilitate air flow into thevolute assembly 118. As such, theopening 115 is centrally located about thevolute portion 122, at the rear of the battery-poweredbackpack blower 100. Thefan member 134 is disposed in thevolute assembly 118, proximate to theopening 115, which permits air to flow from the exterior of thebackpack blower 100, through theopening 115 andfan member 134, and into thevolute assembly 118 during operation. - As indicated in
FIG. 5 , thefirst volute portion 120 andsecond volute portion 122 each include respectiveinterior surfaces chamber 142 for air generated by thefan member 134 to flow through. Acover 136, which may have a reticulated cover configuration prevents debris above a certain size from entering theopening 115 during operation. Notably, as illustrated inFIG. 5 andFIGS. 8A-8D , thebackpack blower 100 is shown relative to a coordinate system along the (x) axis, (y) axis and (z) axis. The longitudinal center of gravity of thebackpack blower 100 is represented along the (x) axis, the lateral center of gravity of thebackpack blower 100 is represented along the (y) axis, and the vertical center of gravity is represented along the (z) axis. - As shown in
FIGS. 3, 4A-4B , thehousing assembly 112 is positioned intermediate to theback support assembly 114 and thevolute assembly 118. As depicted inFIG. 3 , thehousing assembly 112 generally includes afirst housing portion 124 and asecond housing portion 128 which cooperatively form thehousing assembly 112. As such, thehousing assembly 112 may be fixedly secured to thetop plate portion 110 andlower plate portion 108 of theback support assembly 114. - The
housing assembly 112 generally includes one or more battery wells, which may include atop well 132 a and a bottom well 132 b, configured to receive and support one or morerespective batteries housing assembly 112 may also be configured to include only one battery well for receiving only one battery. Conversely, thehousing assembly 112 may provide more than two battery wells to support multiple batteries. - As illustrated,
battery wells openings housing assembly 112, thereby facilitating the insertion of therespective batteries battery wells respective openings housing assembly 112. - As illustrated in
FIG. 3 , thefirst housing portion 124 is configured for fastenable engagement with theback plate member 106, and asecond housing portion 128 is configured for fastenable engagement with thevolute assembly 118. Thehousing assembly 112 further includes amotor chamber 130. Themotor chamber 130 is positioned vertically intermediate to the first battery well 132 a and second battery well 132 b and configured to receive and support amotor assembly 138 therein. As shown, electronic components are also positioned in thefirst cavity 130. The electrical components may include a controller 180 (shown inFIG. 3 ), which may be programmed to receive a signal from a joystick-like control assembly 170 (shown inFIGS. 4B ) to control amotor 150 and power distribution from therespective batteries - The
motor assembly 138 generally includes amotor 150 andmotor case 162 configured to contain themotor 150. Themotor assembly 138 further includes a belt drive system 144 (as shown inFIGS. 6A-6D ), and apulley housing 164 configured to contain asecond pulley 146. As shown inFIGS. 6A-6D , the battery-poweredbackpack blower 100, themotor 150 is operatively connected to thefan member 134 to provide rotation thereto. Themotor assembly 138 may be positioned in themotor chamber 130 of thehousing assembly 112. Theelectric motor 150 is operatively connected to abelt drive system 144. Thebelt drive system 144 generally includes a first or motordrive shaft member 161 having afirst pulley 147 operatively connected to themotor 150. Abelt 142 operatively connects thefirst pulley 147 to thesecond pulley 146, which is connected to asecond shaft member 160 of thefan member 134. As such thefirst pulley 147 andsecond pulley 146 engage thebelt 142 to drive thebelt drive system 144. - In another embodiment, the
first pulley 147 and/orsecond pulley 146 may each have teeth and thebelt 142 may have ridges. As such, thefirst pulley 147 andsecond pulley 146 engages ridges provided on thebelt 142, in order to drive thebelt drive system 144. Operation of themotor assembly 138 is controlled by thecontrol assembly 170 via thecontroller 180. Further details regarding the operation of thecontrol assembly 170 andcontroller 180 will be further discussed later herein -
FIGS. 5 and 6A-6D further illustrate themotor assembly 138 positioned horizontally within themotor chamber 130. By placing themotor assembly 138 andrespective battery assemblies back plate 106, user comfort is improved as described above. -
FIGS. 1B and 6A shows thebackpack blower 100 further includes atop guard plate 166, which is removably connectable to atop portion 158 of thehousing assembly 112, which is the assembly ofhousing portions floor plate 168 is removably connectable to a bottom portion of theback plate 106 at thelower plate portion 108 and attached to thehousing assembly 112first housing portion 128 andsecond housing portion 124. - As shown in detail in
FIG. 7 thetop guard plate 166 is configured to cover a top portion of thehousing assembly 112, as well as thevolute assembly 118. Thetop guard plate 166 andfloor plate 168 cooperatively provide a protective barrier for thehousing assembly 112 such that in cases in which theblower 100 is dropped or otherwise thrown around during transport and storage, thehousing assembly 112 andvolute assembly 118 andintake cover 136 are not damaged. As shown, the top guard plate extends generally outward over thehousing assembly 112 andvolute assembly 118, and curves in a generally downward to protect thetop portion 176 of thevolute assembly 118 in the event that thebackpack blower 100 is accidentally dropped. As shown, thetop guard plate 166 may be removably connected to a top portion of thehousing assembly 112, permitting a user to replace thetop guard plate 166 in cases in which thetop guard plate 166 is damaged. Notably, it is contemplated that thetop guard plate 166 may also be integrally formed with thehousing portion 112. - In addition to providing protection, the
floor plate 168 also provides a convenient base for supporting the battery-poweredbackpack blower 100 in an upright position when placed on a surface, such as the ground or a table, for example. Similar to the top guard plate, thefloor plate 168 may be formed integrally with theback plate 106 orhousing assembly 112, or may be formed separately and attached to theback plate 106 for easy replacement in the event of damage or wear and tear. Thetop guard plate 166 andfloor plate 168 both may extend beyond thevolute assembly 118 to cooperatively provide additional protection to thevolute assembly 118. For example, if the battery-poweredbackpack blower 100 is placed with thevolute assembly 118 down, thetop guard plate 166 andfloor plate 168 protect thevolute assembly 118 and supports the battery-poweredbackpack blower 100. - Positioning the battery and motor proximate to the user's back provides several advantages. One advantage of this configuration is that torque forces acting on the user are reduced.
FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate the weight of the back pack blower acting on the user's back and shoulders due to gravitational forces and the moment forces (FM) which would tend to pull the blower away from the user's back. The heaviest components of the battery-poweredbackpack blower 100 are thebatteries motor 150 that are located adjacent theback plate 106 so that moment forces are reduced. As shown inFIG. 8B , when thebackpack blower 100 is worn by a user, the batteries line up against the user's back to position the batteries as close to the user as possible and reduce the forces acting on the user's back as discussed above. This means that it is beneficial to have the distance of the center of gravity of thebackpack blower 100 from the user's back in the x direction to be as small as possible. - Now referring to
FIG. 8A when the battery-poweredbackpack blower 100 is placed on the ground or other flat surface, theback plate 106 may be angled from the vertical. With the angled backplate 106, the twobatteries top battery 126 a is further rearward longitudinally towards thevolute assembly 118 than thelower battery 126 b, which is closer to theback plate 106. This offset configuration moves the weight of theoverall blower 100 rearward slightly in this configuration, which helps to prevent thebackpack blower 100 from tipping forward when sitting on a relatively flat surface. - As shown in
FIG. 8B , when the battery-poweredbackpack blower 100 is placed on a user's back, thefloor plate 168 is positioned at approximately 5 degrees relative to the (x) axis. - Further as shown in
FIG. 8A , the center of gravity (CoG) of thebackpack blower 100 including the twobatteries back pack blower 100 including the twobatteries back pack blower 100 in direction of the (z) axis. Notably, all of the center of gravity (CoG) measurements represented herein, with respect to the battery-poweredbackpack blower 100, do not include attachment of thetube assembly 148 to thebackpack blower 100. - As further illustrated, another advantage of the
housing assembly 112 and battery 126 configuration is that by positioning one battery 126 or, in a dual battery configuration bothbatteries back plate 106, the mass of the battery 126 orbatteries backpack blower 100. This is true in both a single and dual battery configuration. Notably, the lateral center of gravity is at BL as shown inFIG. 5 , and the addition of one or two batteries results in the lateral locations of BL staying the same. In a single battery configuration, the battery's lateral center of gravity is aligned with the lateral location of BL. In a dual battery configuration, bothbatteries FIG. 8A , the center of gravity of the respective batteries BT1 and BT2 are provided close to the user's back in the direction of the x-axis, reducing torque forces acting on the user. - The center of gravity of the
battery 126 a, as indicated at BT1, is approximately 128 millimeters from a lower outer edge of theback plate 106 relative to the (x) axis. The center of gravity of thebattery 126 a, as also indicated at BT1, is approximately 330 millimeters from the lower edge of thefloor plate 168 relative to the (z) axis. The center of gravity of thebattery 126 b, as indicated at BT2, is approximately 116 millimeters from the lower outer edge of theback plate 106 relative to the (x) axis. The center of gravity of thebattery 126 b, as also indicated at BT2, is approximately 89 millimeters from the lower edge of thefloor plate 168 relative to the (z) axis. - As illustrated in
FIG. 5 , the center of gravity along the y-axis, at BL is located substantially in the center of the battery-poweredbackpack blower 100 in the lateral direction. The central location of BL permits a user to support theblower 100 on his/her back without torque forces from theblower 100 pulling the user in a particular direction. - While specific measurements are provided regarding the center of gravity for the battery-powered
backpack blower 100, it is further contemplated that other center of gravity locations for thebackpack blower 100 may result as the configuration of thebackpack blower 100 varies. While positioning the batteries and the electric motor, which are generally the heaviest components of thebackpack blower 100, close to the user's back provides the benefit of greater user comfort, because the overall center of gravity of thebackpack blower 100 is closer to the user. Further, because the two batteries are positioned to extend generally horizontally across the user's back, the battery weight is distributed relatively evenly on each of the user's shoulders and back. As such, this maintains the lateral center of gravity of the battery-poweredbackpack blower 100 generally in the same location, regardless of whether there are zero, one, or two batteries inserted in the battery-poweredbackpack blower 100. The location of the batteries and the electric motor results in the volute and fan member being positioned generally at the rear of the battery-poweredbackpack blower 100 farthest from the user. As the volute and the fan member are among the lighter components, this allows for the center of gravity of the battery-poweredbackpack blower 100 to be closer to the user. Further, in this arrangement, a larger air intake area for the volute is possible resulting in greater airflow. In summary, a battery-powered backpack blower configuration with the electric motor and batteries nearest the back of the user, with the batteries extending horizontally, and the volute and fan member located farthest from the back of the user provides the beneficial center of gravity described herein, as well as improving air flow into the battery-poweredbackpack blower 100. - As shown in
FIGS. 1A, 3 and 4B , thebackpack blower 100 further include atube assembly 148, which is operatively connected to thevolute assembly 118 and receives air flow therefrom. Thetube assembly 148 generally includes one or moredetachable tube members 152 having an elongated configuration, aflexible member 156, providing the user the flexibility to move and point the end portion of thetube member 152 to direct the air flowing out of thetube member 152. - As illustrated, the
tube assembly 148 is positioned to travel along thehousing assembly 112 on a side opposing the openings for thebattery wells tube assembly 148 may be provided on either side ofhousing assembly 112 of theblower 100. The battery-poweredbackpack blower 100 further includes acontrol assembly 170 which permits a user to control the overall operation of the battery-poweredbackpack blower 100, including the speed of thefan member 134. As illustrated, thecontrol assembly 170 may be connected directly to thetube assembly 148 using a cuffingmember 182 which attaches around thetube member 152. As shown in detail inFIG. 9 , thecontrol assembly 170 generally includes avariable speed trigger 172 and amomentary switch member 174 in communication with thecontroller 180. - The
variable speed trigger 172 allows the user to operate themotor 150, and thus theblower 100, at selected speeds. By depressing thetrigger 172, a signal is sent to thecontroller 180 causing themotor 150 to move at the selected speed. To set theblower 100 at that selected speed, the user then pushes or engages themomentary switch member 174, which sends a signal to thecontroller 180 locking themotor 150 at that selected set speed. - If the user wishes to increase the speed from the set speed, the user may further depress/engage the
trigger 172, and the speed of themotor 150 and fan increases until thetrigger 172 is released. Upon release of thetrigger 172, themotor 150, fan and blower return to the selected set speed until the momentary switch is disengaged, turning off the speed control. One advantage of this setup is that it is easy for the user to control, and it is intuitive as it functions very similar to that of a car cruise control, which many users will be familiar with. Notably the user may also operate the battery-powered blower at a selected speed by depressing and holding thetrigger 172 at a selected position - As shown the
control assembly 170 also includes abattery control switch 178 provided thereon. Thebattery control switch 178 is in communication with thecontroller 180 and is provided to permit the user to selectively switch between thebatteries - Non-limiting examples of how the electronics control the batteries are provided herewith. The electronic components include a
controller 180 which directs the one ormore batteries control assembly 170, to provide electricity to themotor assembly 138. In one embodiment, thecontroller 180 may be programmed such that only a single battery 126 is delivering power to themotor assembly 138 at any time. The advantage of this mode of operation is that it allows a user to reduce the weight of the battery-poweredbackpack blower 100 by inserting only asingle battery batteries controller 180 may engage a battery selector to switch to between the batteries. - In another embodiment, the
battery wells respective batteries controller 180. As such, thecontroller 180 selectively receives power from whichever battery is present in its respective battery well 132 a 132 b. - In another embodiment, the
backpack blower 100 may include one or more sensors to detect the power levels of therespective batteries controller 180. As such, thecontroller 180 may select which of thebatteries batteries - Although the various exemplary embodiments have been described in detail with particular reference to certain exemplary aspects thereof, it should be understood that the invention is capable of other embodiments and its details are capable of modifications in various obvious respects. As is readily apparent to those skilled in the art, variations and modifications can be affected while remaining within the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, the foregoing disclosure, description, and figures are for illustrative purposes only and do not in any way limit the invention, which is defined only by the claims.
Claims (10)
1-18. (canceled)
19. A battery powered backpack blower, comprising:
a backplate;
a volute assembly for providing an air flow pathway through the backpack blower;
a fan member to generate air flow through the volute assembly;
a motor assembly secured to the volute assembly and operatively connected to the fan member, the motor being powered by at least one battery;
a tube assembly connected to the volute assembly for exhausting the air flow;
a control assembly to be grasped by a user, the control assembly located on the tube assembly, the control assembly having a trigger for varying the speed of the fan member;
a switch on the control assembly for setting a first fan speed so that the trigger may be released and the fan speed is maintained.
20. The battery powered backpack blower of claim 19 , wherein when the switch is actuated, the trigger may be depressed further to increase the fan speed above the first fan speed, and when the trigger is released, the fan speed returns to the first fan speed.
21. The battery powered backpack blower of claim 20 , wherein the switch must be deactivated to lower the fan speed below the first fan speed.
22. The battery powered backpack blower of claim 21 , wherein the at least one battery comprises two batteries, and the motor is powered by only one of the batteries at a time.
23. The battery powered backpack blower of claim 22 , wherein the control assembly includes a battery control switch to selectively switch between the two batteries powering the motor.
24. A method of operating a battery powered backpack blower, comprising the steps of:
providing a blower having a backplate, a volute assembly for providing an air flow pathway through the backpack blower, a fan member to generate air flow through the volute assembly, a motor assembly secured to the volute assembly and operatively connected to the fan member, the motor being powered by at least one battery, a tube assembly connected to the volute assembly for exhausting the air flow, and a control assembly, the control assembly located on the tube assembly, the control assembly having a trigger for varying the speed of the fan member, and a switch on the control assembly for setting a first fan speed;
depressing the trigger to actuate the motor assembly and initiate an air flow through the blower;
actuating the switch and setting the first fan speed; and
releasing the trigger, wherein the fan member continues to operate at the first fan speed.
25. The method of operating a battery powered backpack blower of claim 24 , further comprising the step of depressing the trigger while the switch is actuated, wherein the fan speed is increased beyond the first fan speed.
26. The method of operating a battery powered backpack blower of claim 25 , further comprising the steps of turning of the switch; and
releasing the trigger, wherein the speed of the fan member drops below the first fan speed.
27. The method of operating a battery powered backpack blower of claim 24 , wherein the at least one battery is a first battery and a second battery, and the motor is powered by only one battery at a time, and further including a battery control switch;
actuating the battery control switch to select one of the first battery or second battery to power the motor.
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Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
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EP3061375B1 (en) | 2018-10-31 |
US9907234B2 (en) | 2018-03-06 |
US20190029191A1 (en) | 2019-01-31 |
US20160198636A1 (en) | 2016-07-14 |
EP3061375A3 (en) | 2016-09-07 |
EP3061375A2 (en) | 2016-08-31 |
CN205423213U (en) | 2016-08-03 |
US11606917B2 (en) | 2023-03-21 |
US10645884B2 (en) | 2020-05-12 |
US20200236875A1 (en) | 2020-07-30 |
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