WO2024104765A1

WO2024104765A1 - Protective device, accumulator protection element, portable working device and method at least for protecting an accumulator

Info

Publication number: WO2024104765A1
Application number: PCT/EP2023/080175
Authority: WO
Inventors: Tobias Fischer; Fabian SCHEMPP; Kevin Doll
Original assignee: Robert Bosch Gmbh
Priority date: 2022-11-15
Filing date: 2023-10-30
Publication date: 2024-05-23
Also published as: DE102022212097A1

Abstract

The invention relates to a protective device (10a; 10b), in particular an impact protection device, for a portable working device (12a; 12b), comprising at least one accumulator protection unit (16a; 16b) that is different from a working device housing (14a; 14b), and which is designed to protect at least one accumulator (18a; 18b) of the working device (12a; 12b) from damage, in particular impact damage, e.g. from an impact due to the working device (12a; 12b) falling, by at least partially at least laterally surrounding an accumulator mounting region (20a; 20b).

Description

Protective device, battery protection element, portable tool and method for at least protecting a battery

State of the art

Due to the fire hazard that can arise from damaged batteries, especially Li-ion batteries, the protection of batteries in everyday operation is becoming increasingly important.

Disclosure of the invention

A protective device, in particular a shock protection device, for a portable working device is proposed, with at least one battery protection unit designed differently from a working device housing, which is designed to protect at least one battery of the working device from damage, in particular impact damage, for example due to an impact as a result of a fall of the working device, by at least partially surrounding a battery mounting area at least laterally.

The design of the protective device according to the invention can advantageously increase operational safety, since in particular damage to the battery to be protected by the protective device is prevented.

Advantageously, a maintenance interval and/or cleaning interval can be extended, since in particular the lateral surrounding of the battery mounting area prevents contamination of the electrical contact areas and/or the battery mounting area intended for battery mounting, for example by dust or splashing liquids is drastically reduced. Safety for the user can advantageously be increased because damage to the battery, which could, for example, cause a battery fire that is dangerous for the user, or the emission of substances that are dangerous for the user from the interior of the battery, is prevented. For example, it is known that even minor damage to a battery that may go unnoticed, e.g. due to a fall, can lead to the battery slowly heating up over several hours and ultimately to a battery fire, e.g. when the tool with the battery has already been stowed away in a vehicle or building. This and the associated potentially catastrophic effects can be advantageously avoided by the protective device. In particular, the protective device is designed to reliably protect the battery against falls from heights of at least 50 cm, preferably at least 1 m and particularly preferably at least two meters.

The rechargeable battery is preferably assigned to at least one portable work tool. For example, the rechargeable battery can be designed as a replaceable battery pack that can be mounted on one or more, in particular different, portable work tools. The work tool is preferably intended to be operated manually by a user, at least to a large extent. The work tool is preferably designed as a portable and/or mobile work tool. The work tool is preferably designed as a handheld power tool and/or a garden tool and/or a household appliance and/or a hygiene device and/or a comparable device that is intended to be operated with a rechargeable battery. For example, the portable and/or mobile handheld power tool can be designed as a pipe wrench, a pipe pressing pliers, a cordless screwdriver, an electric saw, e.g. a jigsaw, a drill, a grinder, a sheet metal shears, a milling machine, a hot glue gun, a blower, a multifunctional tool, a polishing machine, a planing machine or a comparable handheld power tool. For example, the portable and/or mobile garden tool can be designed as a hand mowing tool, a hedge trimmer, a lawn trimmer, a tree saw, a leaf blower, a chainsaw, a scarifier, an electric branch shears, a pole pruner, an electric garden hoe, an electric brush or a comparable garden tool. For example, the portable and/or mobile household appliance can be designed as a cleaning device, such as a vacuum cleaner, a window vacuum, a high-pressure cleaner, as a personal care device, such as a razor, a hairdryer, an electric toothbrush, as a lighting device, such as a flashlight, or a comparable household appliance. In addition, it is also conceivable that it can be designed as another battery-operated portable work device from another area of application, e.g. the medical field. Preferably, the protective device is arranged and/or fixed to the portable and/or mobile work device. It is also conceivable that the protective device protects a battery on a non-portable work device, which could, for example, tip over. “Portable” is understood to mean a work device that is so light that it can be transported by an adult operator without aids, in particular by carrying and/or rolling and/or pushing, and that the work device is operated at least largely manually.

The protective device is preferably provided at least to protect the battery and/or the tool housing from the tool. The protective device is preferably designed as an impact protection device which serves as protection against impact and/or against contamination, in particular from dust and/or dirty water, and/or against scratching of the components to be protected. It is conceivable that the protective device protects other components of the tool, such as a tool drive and/or an operating element of the tool and/or a display or other elements from damage. The protective device is preferably designed in one or two parts. The protective device preferably has a U-shaped configuration. The fact that an object is intended or designed or configured for a specific function should preferably be understood to mean that the object fulfills and/or carries out this specific function in at least one application and/or operating state.

Preferably, the battery protection unit is arranged at least partially in the vicinity of the battery. In particular, the vicinity of the battery is formed by all points which are at a distance from the battery that is less than 30 cm, preferably 15 cm, advantageously 10 cm and preferably 5 cm. Preferably, the battery protection unit is arranged at least partially in the vicinity of the battery. Mostly arranged parallel to a battery mounting direction to the side next to the battery to be protected. Preferably, the battery protection unit is provided to protect a battery of the working device from impact loading. Preferably, in addition to the battery, the battery protection unit also protects an electrical battery interface, which is provided in particular for energy transfer from the battery to the working device, in particular a drive of the working device and/or to a measuring unit of the working device and/or to a control and regulating unit of the working device, and/or an output unit or other electrically operated functional units of the working device.

A "collision" is to be understood in particular as a force transmission through at least brief contact between two solid bodies. The collision is preferably caused by an impact as a result of the implement falling onto a solid body, such as a surface and/or the implement striking a solid body, such as a wall and/or a solid body striking the stationary implement, such as a stone falling onto the parked implement.

A "battery interface" is to be understood in particular as a contact area which is intended to transfer electrical energy from the battery to the working device. In addition to the electrical energy transfer, the battery interface could also be designed to transfer information such as battery temperature and/or electrochemical health status of the battery and/or battery charge level and/or other data, in particular measurement data, via a data interface, such as via a USB interface or BUS system and/or a comparable interface.

The term “damage” is to be understood in particular as a preferably mechanical change to a component which leads to an impairment of a function and/or a performance and/or a service life and/or a visual appearance of the component. The accumulator is preferably designed as an energy storage device, in particular an electrochemical one, which is intended to absorb electrical energy during a charging process and to deliver the electrical energy to a consumer of the tool during operation. In particular, the accumulator is designed as a Li-ion accumulator. It is conceivable that the accumulator is also designed as a disposable accumulator, such as a battery. Preferably, the accumulator is arranged on the tool in a way that it can be removed and/or exchanged. However, it is conceivable that the accumulator is permanently integrated into the tool. A "battery mounting area" is to be understood in particular as an area that is filled by the fully assembled accumulator. The accumulator preferably has a battery mounting direction. Preferably, battery mounting is only possible in the battery mounting direction. A "battery mounting direction" is to be understood in particular as a direction that is intended to push the accumulator into the intended battery mounting area.

The tool housing is preferably designed to protect the components in the tool housing, in particular from dirt and/or damage. The tool housing is preferably designed to protect the user from injury, in particular from rotating and/or live and/or hot components. The tool housing is preferably designed to enable the user to grip and/or hold and/or use the tool. In particular, the battery protection unit and/or the battery mounting area can be arranged at any point on the tool housing. The battery protection unit and/or the battery mounting area is preferably arranged at a lower end of the tool housing. The battery protection unit and/or the battery mounting area is preferably arranged in a close area of a handle of the portable tool. In particular, the close area of the handle of the portable tool is formed by all points that are less than 30 cm, preferably 15 cm, advantageously 10 cm and preferably 5 cm away from the battery. In particular, the battery protection unit is designed separately from the tool housing. In particular, the battery protection unit is mounted on the tool housing. The battery protection unit is preferably provided to protect the battery from impact and/or from contamination, in particular from dust and/or dirty water, and/or from scratching. The battery protection unit is preferably arranged in the vicinity of the battery to be protected. In particular, the vicinity of the battery is formed by all points which are at a distance from the battery that is less than 30 cm, preferably 15 cm, advantageously 10 cm and preferably 5 cm.

It is further proposed that the battery protection unit, in particular a first battery protection element and a second battery protection element of the battery protection unit, at least in a connection area of the battery protection unit in which the battery protection unit is connected to the tool, surrounds the tool housing, in particular a part of the handle of the tool housing, at least to a large extent, preferably completely, all the way around. A particularly stable connection can advantageously be formed, since in particular the component load of the connection between the battery protection unit and the tool housing is reduced when a force is applied, in particular as a result of an impact, since the force is distributed particularly well over the entire circumference of the circumferentially enclosing connection. Preferably, the first battery protection element and the second battery protection element touch the tool housing at least substantially all the way around. Preferably, the second battery protection element is mirror-symmetrical to the first battery protection element. Preferably, the contact area of at least the first battery protection element and the second battery protection element with the tool housing forms the connection area of the battery protection unit. Preferably, the battery protection unit forms an insertion area for inserting the battery, in particular laterally aligned with the working device. Preferably, the walls of the battery protection unit are lowered in the insertion area, in particular flush with the working device housing and/or a battery mounting unit of the protective device. Preferably, the connection area is provided to connect the battery protection unit to the working device housing. Preferably, the connection area is additionally provided to protect an area of the working device housing facing the battery from damage. Preferably, the connection area is arranged in a close area of the electrical battery interface and/or the connection area. In particular, the close area of the battery interface is formed by all points which are at a distance from the battery interface that is less than 30 cm, preferably 15 cm, advantageously 10 cm and preferably 5 cm. In this context, a large part is to be understood as meaning in particular 60%, preferably 70%, preferably 80% and particularly preferably 90%.

It is further proposed that the battery protection unit comprises at least the first battery protection element and at least the second battery protection element, which is designed separately from the first battery protection element. Repair costs can advantageously be reduced because, in particular in the event of an impact, only the first battery protection element and/or the second battery protection element is damaged, as a result of which only the first battery protection element and/or the second battery protection element and, particularly advantageously, not the tool housing, have to be replaced. Preferably, the first battery protection element and the second battery protection element are arranged on two different sides opposite the mounted battery. Preferably, the first battery protection element contacts the second battery protection element in the mounted state in at least one contact area and preferably in at least two contact areas, in particular arranged separately from one another. Preferably, the two contact areas arranged separately from one another are arranged on two different sides opposite the mounted battery. Preferably, the first battery protection element and the second battery protection element form the battery protection unit completely. Preferably, the first battery protection element and/or the second battery protection element is made of an impact-resistant and/or energy-absorbing material, such as a plastic or a composite material or a metallic material. Preferably, the mounted battery protection unit is completely open at an end region facing away from the implement housing.

In addition, it is proposed that the first battery protection element forms at least one, in particular full-surface, first battery protection jaw and/or that the second battery protection element forms a, in particular full-surface, second battery protective jaw. The battery can advantageously be protected from damage and/or from contamination, since in particular the full-surface first battery protective jaw and the full-surface second battery protective jaw have a dirt-repellent and/or dirty water-repellent effect due to their closed shape. Repairs can advantageously be carried out by the user themselves, since in particular the first battery protection element and/or the second battery protection element can be replaced particularly easily. Preferably, the at least first, in particular full-surface, battery protective jaw and/or the at least second, in particular full-surface, battery protective jaw are intended to shield and/or drain dirt and/or dirty water from the battery. Preferably, at least the second battery protective jaw is aligned at least substantially parallel to the first battery protective jaw. Preferably, the first battery protective element, in particular the first battery protective jaw, and the second battery protective element, in particular the second battery protective jaw, are arranged mirrored to one another. Preferably, the first battery protective jaw and the second battery protective jaw are arranged on opposite sides of the battery. Preferably, the first battery protection jaw and the second battery protection jaw are arranged on two long sides, in particular on the longest side surfaces, of the battery. Preferably, the battery protection jaws are arranged in a touch-free and/or contact-free manner with respect to the battery. Preferably, the first battery protection jaw and/or the second battery protection jaw protrude in the main impact direction and/or in the assembly direction. Preferably, the first battery protection jaw and the second battery protection jaw are connected to one another via the first battery protection element and the second battery protection element and the connecting element and are particularly preferably designed free of further connecting elements and/or webs. In particular, the battery protection elements are free of connecting webs at least on one side facing away from the battery assembly area. Preferably, the battery protection unit is open on the side facing away from the battery assembly area, preferably completely open. Preferably, the at least first battery protection jaw and/or the at least second battery protection jaw are made of a plastic, in particular plastic injection molding. Preferably, the plastic material has a lower strength than the material of the tool housing. It is conceivable that the at least first battery protection jaw and/or the at least second battery protection jaw is made of a composite material with improved material properties in terms of material strength and/or material elasticity. It is conceivable that the battery protection jaws have perforations, such as small holes and/or slots.

It is also proposed that the first battery protection jaw and/or the second battery protection jaw have a main extension plane which is aligned at least substantially parallel to a most probable main impact direction and/or at least substantially perpendicular to a battery mounting direction. Advantageously, the strength of the first battery protection jaw and the second battery protection jaw can be improved, since rigidity is increased in particular by the parallel arrangement of a longest surface of the battery protection jaw. A "most probable main impact direction" is to be understood in particular as a force direction induced by an impact between two solid bodies, which occurs most frequently in a large number of impacts. Preferably, the main impact direction in the event of a fall is significantly influenced by the position in which the work tool hits the ground. Preferably, initial contact with a surface of a component which is the smallest distance from the mounted battery is most likely, since the mounted battery is closest to the center of gravity of the work tool, at least in most cases. A “main extension plane” of a structural unit is to be understood in particular as a plane which is parallel to a largest side surface of a smallest imaginary cuboid which just completely encloses the structural unit and in particular runs through the centre of the cuboid.

It is further proposed that the first battery protection element and the second battery protection element are connected to one another by at least one detachable connecting element, for example a screw. Repair costs can advantageously be reduced, since in particular in the event of an impact only the first battery protection element and/or the second battery protection element is damaged, whereby only the first battery protection element and/or the second battery protection element and particularly advantageously not the tool housing needs to be replaced. In certain embodiments, this could advantageously reduce the The possibility is created that a repair can be carried out by the user himself. The strength of the tool housing is advantageously improved, since in particular the tool housing does not have to be weakened by a hole for a screw connection. The detachable connecting element is preferably arranged in a close area of the connection area with the tool. In particular, the close area of the connection area is formed by all points which are at a distance from the connection area of less than 20 cm, preferably 10 cm, advantageously 5 cm and preferably 2 cm. Preferably, the connecting element, in particular a main extension direction of the connecting element, is arranged parallel to a nearest side surface of the tool housing. A "connecting element" is to be understood in particular as at least one component which connects two separately formed parts to one another in a form-fitting and/or force-fitting manner. A "main extension direction" of an object is to be understood in particular as a direction which runs parallel to a longest edge of a smallest geometric cuboid which just completely encloses the object.

It is further proposed that the battery protection unit, in one possible embodiment, is connected to the tool housing without any screw connections, preferably in a way that can be detached without causing any damage. Repair costs can advantageously be reduced, since in particular in the event of an impact only the first battery protection element and/or the second battery protection element is damaged, whereby only the first battery protection element and/or the second battery protection element and particularly advantageously not the tool housing need to be replaced. The strength of the tool housing is advantageously improved, since in particular the tool housing does not need to be weakened by a hole for a screw connection. Preferably, the connection, in particular between the first battery protection element and the second battery protection element, is designed as a screw connection, which is designed as a screw-in or push-through connection. It is also conceivable that the connection is designed as a snap-in connection, which can be opened and/or closed in particular without tools. It is conceivable that the battery protection unit is designed in addition to or instead of the connection between the first battery protection element and the second battery protection element. has at least one connection, in particular a screw-in connection, between the battery protection unit and the tool housing.

It is further proposed that the battery protection unit is connected, in particular exclusively, to the tool housing by means of a positive connection. Advantageously, a force transmission from the battery protection unit to the tool housing can be improved, since in particular the positive connection is designed in such a way that it distributes the impact force over as large an area as possible. Preferably, the positive connection is provided to at least substantially prevent a relative rotational movement of the battery protection unit with respect to the tool housing. Preferably, the positive connection is provided to at least substantially prevent a relative movement of the battery protection unit with respect to the tool housing along the most likely main impact direction. Preferably, the positive connection has at least one positive connection element on the battery protection unit and at least one corresponding positive connection element on the tool housing.

It is additionally proposed that the battery protection unit is connected to the tool housing by means of a tongue and groove connection. The form-fitting connection is advantageously designed to be particularly stable, in particular because the circumferential and self-contained shape of the form-fitting connection is particularly stable. Energy can advantageously be absorbed, in particular because the tongue and groove is designed to be elastic. The groove is preferably designed to run at least partially, preferably completely, around the tool housing or around the battery protection unit. The tongue is preferably designed to run at least partially, preferably completely around the tool housing or around the battery protection unit. The groove and the tongue are preferably arranged so as to at least substantially contact one another. The tongue and groove connection is preferably intended to absorb mechanical energy, in particular impact energy.

It is also proposed that a main extension plane of a form-locking element of the battery protection unit is inclined relative to an expected main impact direction in order to produce the tongue and groove connection. is designed. Advantageously, the direction of force induced by the impact can be introduced particularly well into the tool housing, since in particular the force is introduced at least partially in the circumferential direction from the groove into the tongue. Advantageously, a breaking force can be increased, since in particular the area of the groove and/or the tongue on which the impact force acts can be increased. In particular, the smallest angle between the main impact direction and the main extension direction of the form-fitting element of the battery protection unit in the assembled state is greater than 45°, advantageously greater than 60°, preferably greater than 75° and particularly preferably about 80°. In particular, the smallest angle between the battery assembly direction and the main extension direction of the form-fitting element of the battery protection unit is less than 45°, advantageously less than 30°, preferably less than 15° and particularly preferably about 10°. In particular, the smallest angle between a main extension plane of a battery mounting opening provided for mounting the battery and the main extension direction of the form-locking element of the battery protection unit is greater than 45°, advantageously greater than 60°, preferably greater than 75° and particularly preferably approximately 80°. The form-locking element preferably extends around the tool housing, in particular circumferentially and in a closed manner, the form-locking element having at least two, in particular several different, angles to the main impact direction and/or to the battery mounting direction and/or to the main extension direction of the battery mounting opening around the circumference. Preferably, the smallest angle from the main extension plane of the form-locking element to the main impact direction is provided to redirect a force acting in the main impact direction in the circumferential direction, whereby a breaking force can be increased. “Oblique” is to be understood in particular as an orientation of the form-locking element to the main impact direction, which is different from a parallel orientation and different from a vertical orientation.

It is also proposed that the form-locking element of the battery protection unit is designed to run all the way around the battery protection unit and/or that a corresponding form-locking element of the tool housing is designed to run all the way around the tool housing. The form-locking connection is advantageously designed to be particularly stable, since in particular the circumferential and The closed shape of the form-locking connection is particularly stable. The form-locking element of the battery protection unit is preferably designed to run all the way around the battery protection unit and to be self-contained. The corresponding form-locking element of the implement housing is preferably designed to run all the way around the implement housing and to be self-contained. The form-locking element arranged on the battery protection unit is preferably designed as a groove. It is conceivable that the form-locking element arranged on the battery protection unit is designed as a spring. The form-locking element arranged on the implement housing is preferably designed as a spring. It is conceivable that the form-locking element arranged on the implement housing is designed as a spring.

It is further proposed that the form-locking element of the battery protection unit and/or a corresponding form-locking element of the tool housing has a tapered contour. The load on the spring is advantageously reduced because the area, in particular the shear area, is increased and the stiffness, in particular the bending stiffness of the spring, is increased. The tapered contour is preferably designed such that a thickness of the spring is smallest on the side facing the component that is arranged on the corresponding form-locking element. The tapered contour is preferably designed such that a thickness of the groove is greatest on the side facing away from the component that is arranged on the corresponding form-locking element.

It is also proposed that the battery protection unit is interlocked with the tool housing. Impact energy can advantageously be absorbed particularly well, since the toothing in particular has to be slightly deformed in order to reach a block state, whereby the deformation absorbs energy. Preferably, the toothing of the battery protection unit has at least one, in particular trapezoidal, tooth and the toothing of the tool housing has at least one corresponding, in particular trapezoidal, tooth recess. Preferably, each tooth has a pronounced plateau and each tooth recess has a pronounced corresponding tooth base. Preferably, the toothing is exclusively on the two opposite opposite sides, which are arranged parallel to the battery protection jaws. However, it is conceivable that the toothing extends over the entire circumference of the battery protection unit and/or of the tool housing. The battery protection unit can additionally be fixed to the tool housing with screw connections. In the embodiment with the toothing, the screw connections, in particular screw domes, are arranged parallel to the most likely main impact direction. Preferably, each screw connection has a screw dome. Preferably, an elastic damping element is arranged in each screw dome, which is designed in particular as a rubber spacer sleeve. Preferably, the elastic damping element is provided to dampen an impact load and prevent mechanical loading of the screw connection, in particular in a block state. A "screw dome" is to be understood in particular as an essentially cylinder- or cone-shaped projection into which the screw used to provide the connection can be screwed. For example, screw domes have holes into which the screws are screwed. Using the screw domes, for example, the necessary minimum length for the screw connection can be provided without having to equip the entire component with the corresponding wall thickness. This makes it possible in particular to arrange a damping element and/or a clamping element and/or a form-fitting element and/or a screw locking element or the like in the screw dome.

In addition, it is proposed that a toothing between the battery protection unit and the tool housing forms an energy absorption unit, which is intended to at least partially absorb energy from an impact. Strength can advantageously be increased, since in particular part of the impact energy can be absorbed and thus the component load can be reduced. Preferably, the teeth of the toothing on the battery protection unit are spaced apart from the corresponding tooth recess on the tool housing in the unloaded state. Preferably, the toothing of the battery protection unit is contact-free with the corresponding tooth recess on the tool housing in the unloaded state. Preferably, an end face of each tooth of the battery protection unit, in particular in any operating state other than a block state, is at a greater distance from a corresponding base surface of the implement housing of each tooth base than a distance of a tooth flank of each tooth from a corresponding tooth surface of each tooth base. Preferably, the energy absorption unit forms a damping cascade. Preferably, the damping cascade is formed at least from the damping elements of each of the screw domes and the toothing. Preferably, a sequence of the damping cascade is defined by the distances between the block states of the toothing and the screw connection. Preferably, the damping element is arranged in front of the toothing in the damping cascade. Any alternative sequence in the damping cascade, in particular a damping cascade with further damping elements, is conceivable. An “operating state” should preferably be understood to mean a state in which the protective device is ready for operation under a shock load and/or is in an unloaded state in which a battery can be protected, in particular against a shock, and/or shock energy can be absorbed.

It is further proposed that the battery protection unit has at least one flexible, elastic energy absorption element which is molded onto or attached to a battery protection element of the battery protection unit. Advantageously, strength can be increased because, in particular, part of the impact energy can be absorbed and the component load can thus be reduced. Preferably, the at least one flexible, elastic energy absorption element is arranged on a side of the battery protection unit facing away from the tool housing. Preferably, the elastic energy absorption element is made from a thermoplastic elastomer, in particular in an injection molding process, which has pronounced elastic material properties. Preferably, the at least one flexible, elastic energy absorption element is integrally connected to the battery protection unit.

It is further proposed that at least one battery protection jaw of one of the battery protection elements has a surface extending over at least a large part of a jaw side of the battery protection jaw and in one piece, preferably monolithic, comprises a damping and/or stiffening structure molded onto the battery protection element. Resistance to damage can advantageously be improved since, in particular, the battery protection element with the stiffening structure can withstand a greater impact force and the battery protection element with the damping structure absorbs more impact energy. Preferably, the molded-on damping and/or stiffening structure is arranged on one side, in particular on an inner side, of the first battery protection jaw and the second battery protection jaw. Preferably, the damping and/or stiffening structure has a honeycomb-shaped structure, in particular a hexagonal and/or six-sided structure. It is also conceivable that the damping and/or stiffening structure is designed as a rib-shaped, in particular molded-on structure. Preferably, the damping and/or stiffening structure is made of the same or the same material as the battery protection jaws. It is conceivable that the damping and/or stiffening structure is made of a different, in particular elastically more flexible, material than the battery protection jaws. The term “one-piece” is to be understood in particular as meaning at least materially connected, for example by a welding process, an adhesive process, an injection molding process and/or another process that appears to be reasonable to the person skilled in the art, and/or advantageously formed in one piece, such as by production from a cast and/or by production in a single or multi-component injection molding process and advantageously from a single blank.

Furthermore, a battery assembly unit is proposed which forms at least the battery assembly area for mounting the battery on the tool, wherein the battery assembly unit is designed in such a way that the assembly of the battery is only possible with a battery protection element, in particular one that is installed correctly. Safety can advantageously be increased, since in particular operation of the tool is not possible without the battery protection unit. Preferably, the battery assembly unit is provided to at least enable and/or simplify assembly and/or disassembly of the battery in an assembly direction. In addition, it is proposed that at least one battery mounting element of the battery mounting unit is connected to the battery protection element in one piece or monolithically. Safety can advantageously be increased, since in particular operation of the implement is not possible without the battery protection unit. Assembly can advantageously be simplified, since in particular the battery mounting element connected to the battery protection element in one piece or monolithically is automatically attached and/or positioned when the battery protection elements are assembled with the implement housing and does not have to be mounted separately and, particularly advantageously, does not have to be centered and/or aligned.

It is also proposed that the battery mounting element forms at least part of a guide rail for guiding an insertion or removal movement of the battery. Safety can advantageously be increased, since in particular operation of the tool is not possible without the battery protection unit. Preferably, the battery mounting unit is designed as at least one guide rail, in particular as a battery rail. Preferably, the guide rail guides a battery assembly and/or limits a battery movement during and/or after assembly at least substantially perpendicular to an assembly direction.

Furthermore, it is proposed that the battery assembly unit is formed at least to a large extent, preferably completely, by the battery protection unit that can be detachably connected to the tool housing in a non-destructive manner. Safety is advantageously increased because, in particular, the battery cannot be assembled and/or operated without the battery protection unit. Preferably, the battery assembly unit is connected in one piece to the battery protection unit. Preferably, the battery assembly unit is formed by each of the at least two battery protection elements of the battery protection unit. A “large part” could mean, for example, with the exception of an electrical connection element, in particular contact conductor. It is conceivable that the electrical battery interface, in particular the contact conductor, is integrated into the battery protection unit and connected to the tool via a plug connection. Alternatively, it is also conceivable that at least one electrical contact from the electrical battery interface is integrated into the battery protection unit and/or plugged through the battery protection unit. Furthermore, a battery protection element is proposed for forming a protective device, in particular a shock protection device. Advantageously, a service life can be extended, since in particular in the event of an impact with a solid object, such as a fall of the work tool, no damage is caused to the battery. Advantageously, the battery protection element can be replaced by the operator himself. Preferably, one of the at least two battery protection elements and/or individual battery protection elements and/or all battery protection elements are formed separately from one another and/or can be mounted and/or are available as spare parts and can be changed and/or exchanged, in particular by the operator himself.

Furthermore, a portable working device, for example a hand-held power tool, a portable gardening tool, a portable household appliance and/or the like, with the protective device is proposed. The service life of the portable working device can be extended advantageously, since in particular a fall of the working device does not cause damage to the battery. A maintenance interval can be extended advantageously, since in particular the battery is no longer damaged in the event of an impact with a solid object, such as a fall.

In addition, a method is proposed at least for protecting a battery of a portable working device, for example a hand-held power tool, a portable gardening tool, a portable household appliance and/or the like, in particular by means of a protective device, with at least one battery protection unit designed differently from a working device housing, wherein the battery is protected from impact damage, for example by an impact as a result of a fall of the working device, by at least partially shielding a battery mounting area of the working device by the battery protection unit. The service life of the portable working device can be extended advantageously, since in particular a fall of the working device does not cause damage to the battery. A maintenance interval can be extended advantageously, since in particular the battery is no longer damaged in the event of an impact with a solid body, such as a fall. The protective device according to the invention, the battery protection element according to the invention, the portable work tool according to the invention and the method according to the invention at least for protecting a battery should not be limited to the application and embodiment described above. In particular, the protective device according to the invention, the battery protection element according to the invention, the portable work tool according to the invention and the method according to the invention at least for protecting a battery can have a number of individual elements, components and units as well as method steps that differs from the number stated here in order to fulfill a function described here. In addition, in the value ranges specified in this disclosure, values within the stated limits should also be considered disclosed and can be used as desired.

Drawing

Further advantages emerge from the following description of the drawing. The drawing shows two embodiments of the invention. The drawing, the description and the claims contain numerous features in combination. The person skilled in the art will also expediently consider the features individually and combine them into further useful combinations.

Show it:

Fig. 1 is a schematic representation of a working device according to the invention with a protective device,

Fig. 2 is a schematic representation of the working device with the protective device,

Fig. 3a is a schematic representation of the protective device with a battery protection unit having a battery protection element,

Fig. 3b is a schematic representation of the protective device with a battery protection unit having an alternative battery protection element,

Fig. 4 is a schematic flow diagram of a method for protecting a battery, Fig. 5 is a schematic representation of an alternative embodiment of a working device with an alternative protective device,

Fig. 6 is a schematic representation of an energy absorption unit of the alternative protection device and

Fig. 7 is a schematic flow diagram of an alternative method for protecting a battery.

Description of the embodiments

Figure 1 shows part of a portable working device 12a. The portable working device 12a is designed as a portable hand-held power tool. Alternatively, the working device 12a could also be designed as a portable gardening tool or a portable household appliance or a portable hygiene device or the like. The portable working device 12a has a rechargeable battery 18a. The portable working device 12a has a protective device 10a. The protective device 10a is designed as an impact protection device. The protective device 10a is intended for mounting on the portable working device 12a. The protective device 10a has a battery protection unit 16a. The battery protection unit 16a is designed differently from a working device housing 14a. The battery protection unit 16a is designed to protect the rechargeable battery 18a of the working device 12a from damage. The damage to the rechargeable battery 18a could be designed as impact damage. The impact damage could be caused by an impact as a result of a fall from the working device 12a. The battery protection unit 16a protects the battery 18a by laterally surrounding a battery mounting area 20a. The battery protection unit 16a additionally protects the battery 18a from scratches. The battery protection unit 16a additionally protects the battery 18a from contamination by dust and dirty water. The battery protection unit 16a protects the working device housing 14a from impact damage.

The battery protection unit 16a has a first battery protection element 22a. The battery protection unit 16a has a second battery protection element 24a. The second battery protection element 24a is separate from the first battery protection element 22a. The battery protection elements 22a, 24a are made of impact-resistant and/or energy-absorbing material. The material of the battery protection elements 22a, 24a has more flexible material properties than the material of the tool housing 14a. Alternatively, the battery protection elements 22a, 24a could be made of the same material as the tool housing 14a. The battery protection unit 16a has a connecting region 26a. In the connecting region 26a, the battery protection unit 16a is connected to the tool 12a. The battery protection unit 16a completely surrounds the tool housing 14a. Alternatively, the battery protection unit 16a could only surround the tool housing 14a for the most part. The first battery protection element 22a and the second battery protection element 24a are connected to one another by two detachable connecting elements 36a. The connecting element 36a is designed as a screw. The connecting elements 36a are arranged completely recessed in the first battery protection element 22a and in the second battery protection element 24a. The connecting elements 36a are arranged parallel to the tool housing 14a. The battery protection unit 16a is connected to the tool housing 14a without any screw connections. The battery protection unit 16a is connected to the tool housing 14a in a non-destructively detachable manner. Alternatively, the battery protection elements 22a, 24a could be connected and/or screwed to the tool housing 14a, for example in a close range of the tongue and groove connection.

The first battery protection element 22a forms a first battery protection jaw 28a. The first battery protection jaw 28a is formed over the entire surface. The second battery protection element 24a forms a second battery protection jaw 30a. The second battery protection jaw 30a is formed over the entire surface. Alternatively, only the first battery protection jaw 28a or only the second battery protection jaw 30a could be formed over the entire surface. Alternatively, the first battery protection jaw 28a and/or the second battery protection jaw 30a could be formed over the entire surface for the most part. It is conceivable that the first battery protection jaw 28a and/or the second battery protection jaw 30a have perforations, such as holes and/or slots. The first battery protection jaw 28a and the second battery protection jaw 30a are formed in a mirror image to one another. The first battery protection jaw 28a and the second battery protection jaw 30a are on opposite sides of the battery 18a. arranged. The first battery protection jaw 28a and the second battery protection jaw 30a are arranged parallel to a long side of the battery 18a. The first battery protection jaw 28a and the second battery protection jaw 30a are arranged so that they do not come into contact with the battery 18a. The first battery protection jaw 28a and the second battery protection jaw 30a protrude beyond the mounted battery 18a in the main impact direction. The first battery protection jaw 28a and the second battery protection jaw 30a protrude beyond the mounted battery 18a parallel to the longitudinal direction. The battery protection jaws 28a, 30a are connected to one another via the battery protection elements 22a, 24a and/or via the connecting elements 36a. The battery protection jaws 28a, 30a are free of further connecting elements and/or webs.

The first battery protection jaw 28a has a main extension plane. The main extension plane of the first battery protection jaw 28a is aligned parallel to a most probable main impact direction 32a. The main extension plane of the first battery protection jaw 28a is aligned parallel to a battery mounting direction 34a. The second battery protection jaw 30a has a main extension plane. The main extension plane of the second battery protection jaw 30a is aligned parallel to a most probable main impact direction 32a. The main extension plane of the second battery protection jaw 30a is aligned parallel to the battery mounting direction 34a. The main extension direction of the first battery protection jaw 28a is arranged parallel to the main extension direction of the second battery protection jaw 30a. The battery protection unit 16a has a battery mounting opening 70a. The battery mounting opening 70a extends perpendicular to the battery mounting direction 34a. The battery mounting opening 70a is provided to enable the battery 18a to be mounted and/or dismounted when the battery protection unit 16a is mounted. It is conceivable that the battery protection unit 16a has further openings 72a, for example on the side of the battery 18a facing away from the tool housing 14a and/or the side of the battery 18a facing away from the battery mounting opening 70a. It is conceivable that the further openings 72a of the battery protection unit 16a only partially extend over the side surfaces of the battery protection unit 16a associated with the opening. The battery protection unit 16a has four flexible, elastic energy absorption elements 46a. The battery protection unit 16a could also have a number of flexible, elastic energy absorption elements 46a that differs from 4. The flexible, elastic energy absorption elements 46a are molded or attached to the battery protection element 22a, 24a of the battery protection unit 16a. The energy absorption elements 46a are molded onto the battery protection elements 22a, 24a in a multi-component injection molding process. Each of the four energy absorption elements 46a has a material thickness of at least 4 mm. The battery protection unit 16a has four corners 64a. The corners 64a are arranged on a side 66a of the battery protection unit 16a facing away from the tool housing 14a. A flexible, elastic energy absorption element 46a is molded or attached to each of the corners 64a. The flexible, elastic energy absorption elements 46a are made of a thermoplastic elastomer. The flexible, elastic energy absorption elements 46a have a pronounced elastic material property. The energy absorption elements 46a are intended to partially absorb impact energy.

Figure 2 shows the protective device 10a in a side view. The battery protection unit 16a is connected to the tool housing 14a by means of a positive connection 60a. The battery protection unit 16a is connected to the tool housing 14a by means of a tongue and groove connection 62a. The battery protection unit 16a has a positive connection element 38a. The positive connection element 38a of the battery protection unit 16a points in the direction of the tool housing 14a in the assembled state. The positive connection element 38a of the battery protection unit 16a has a main extension plane for producing the tongue and groove connection 62a. The main extension plane is designed to run obliquely relative to the expected main impact direction 32a.

Figure 3a shows a representation of the working device 12a with the battery protection element 24a. The form-locking element 38a of the battery protection unit 16a is designed to run all the way around the battery protection unit 16a. The form-locking element 38a is formed by the first battery protection element (not shown) and the second battery protection element 24a. The first battery protection element (not shown) and the second battery protection element 24a are arranged in the assembled state in such a way that the form-locking element 38a is formed to run all the way around and endlessly. is. The tool housing 14a has a form-locking element 40a corresponding to the form-locking element 38a. The corresponding form-locking element 40a of the tool housing 14a is designed to run all the way around the tool housing 14a. The form-locking element 38a of the battery protection unit 16a has a tapering contour 68a. The corresponding form-locking element 40a of the tool housing 14a has a tapering contour. The form-locking element 38a is designed to taper in the direction of the corresponding form-locking element 40a. The corresponding form-locking element 40a is designed to taper in the direction of the form-locking element 38a. A side of the form-locking element 38a and the corresponding form-locking element 40a facing the accumulator 18a is aligned parallel to the battery mounting direction 34a. A side of the form-locking element 38a and the corresponding form-locking element 40a facing away from the battery 18a has an angle to the battery mounting direction 34a.

The battery protection jaws 28a, 30a of the battery protection elements 22a, 24a extend flat over a large part of a jaw side 58a of the battery protection jaw 28a, 30a. The battery protection jaw 28a, 30a comprises a damping structure 48a. The damping structure 48a is integrally or monolithically formed on the battery protection element 22a, 24a. The damping structure 48a is arranged on a jaw side 58a facing the battery 18a. Alternatively, the damping structure 48a could be arranged on a jaw side 58'a facing away from the battery 18a or on both jaw sides 58a, 58'a. The battery protection jaw 28a, 30a comprises a stiffening structure 50a. The stiffening structure 50a is integrally or monolithically formed on the battery protection element 22a, 24a. The stiffening structure 50a is arranged on a jaw side 58a facing the battery 18a. Alternatively, the stiffening structure 50a could be arranged on a jaw side 58'a facing away from the battery 18a or on both jaw sides 58a, 58'a. The damping structure 48a and the stiffening structure 50a are made of the material of the battery protection jaws 28a, 30a. Alternatively, the damping structure 48a and/or the stiffening structure 50a could be made of a different material than the battery protection jaws 28a, 30a. The protective device 10a has a battery mounting unit 52a. The battery mounting unit 52a forms the battery mounting area 20a for mounting the battery 18a on the working device 12a. The battery mounting unit 52a is designed such that the mounting of the battery 18a is only possible with a properly installed battery protection element 22a, 24a. The battery mounting unit 52a has two battery mounting elements 54a, 54'a. The battery mounting element 54a, 54'a of the battery mounting unit 52a is connected in one piece or monolithically to the battery protection element 22a, 24a. The battery mounting element 54a, 54'a forms part of a guide rail 56a. Alternatively, the battery mounting unit 52a could be formed completely or partially by the working device housing 14a (see Figure 3b). The guide rail 56a is designed to guide an insertion or removal movement of the battery 18a. The guide rail 56a is aligned parallel to the battery assembly direction 34a. The guide rail 56a is intended to fix the battery 18a perpendicular to the battery assembly direction 34a. The guide rail 56a has an insertion slope in the battery assembly direction 34a. The insertion slope is designed to simplify battery assembly. The battery assembly unit 52a is largely formed by the battery protection unit 16a, which can be non-destructively detachably connected to the tool housing 14a. Alternatively, the battery assembly unit 52a could be completely formed by the battery protection unit 16a, which can be non-destructively detachably connected to the tool housing 14a. The battery assembly unit 52a is intended to position the battery 18a in relation to an electrical connection element 74a of the tool 12a. The battery assembly unit 52a is intended to connect the battery 18a to an electrical connection element 74a of the working device 12a. The battery assembly unit 52a has a closure element 76a. The closure element 76a is intended to fix the battery 18a in a form-fitting manner in the battery assembly area 20a. Alternatively, the closure element 76a could be arranged on the working device housing 14a. The closure element 76a is designed as a locking recess. The locking recess is intended to produce a form-fitting connection with a corresponding locking element. Figure 4 shows a schematic flow diagram of a method for protecting a rechargeable battery 18a of a portable working device 12a, for example a hand-held power tool, a portable gardening tool, a portable household appliance and/or the like, by means of a protective device 10a.

In a method step 90a, a battery 18a is protected from impact loading by a battery protection unit 16a that is designed differently from a working device housing 14a. The battery 18a is protected from impact loading and/or impact damage by partially laterally shielding a battery mounting area 20a of the working device 12a by the battery protection unit 16a. The battery 18a is protected from impact damage, for example by an impact as a result of the working device 12a falling and/or by the working device 12a hitting a wall.

In a further method step 92a, the implement housing 14a is protected from the impact load by the battery protection unit 16a. The implement housing 14a is protected from impact damage by the battery protection unit 16a being designed in such a way that it is destroyed by a mechanical impact load before the implement housing is damaged.

In a further method step 94a, the working device 12a and/or the accumulator 18a are protected from the impact load by four energy absorption elements 46a, which absorb the impact energy during the impact.

In a further method step 96a, the working device 12a and/or the accumulator 18a are protected during the impact load by a damping structure 48a arranged on each inner jaw side 58a, which absorbs impact energy during the impact.

In a further method step 98a, the accumulator 18a is additionally protected from contamination and/or dirty water.

Figures 5 to 7 show a further embodiment of the invention. The following descriptions and drawings are essentially limited to the differences between the embodiments, whereby With regard to components with the same designation, in particular with regard to components with the same reference numerals, reference can generally also be made to the drawings and/or the description of the other exemplary embodiments, in particular Figures 1 to 4. To distinguish the exemplary embodiments, the letter a is placed after the reference numerals of the exemplary embodiment in Figures 1 to 4. In the exemplary embodiment in Figures 5 to 7, the letter a is replaced by the letter b.

Figure 5 shows a schematic representation of a protective device 10b in a view from below. The protective device 10b has a battery protection unit 16b. The battery protection unit 16b has a toothing 42b with the tool housing 14b. The toothing 42b between the battery protection unit 16b and the tool housing 14b forms an energy absorption unit 44b. The energy absorption unit 44b is intended to at least partially absorb energy from an impact. The battery protection unit 16b is screwed to the tool housing 14b using four screws 102b.

Figure 6 shows a schematic representation of the toothing 42b in a side view. The toothing 42b has trapezoidal teeth 78b on the battery protection unit 16b. The toothing 42b has trapezoidal tooth recesses 80b on the implement housing 14b that correspond to the trapezoidal teeth 78b of the battery protection unit 16b. Each tooth 78b has a pronounced plateau-shaped base surface 82b. Each tooth recess 80b has a pronounced corresponding tooth base surface 86b. The toothing 42b is arranged on two sides arranged parallel to the battery protection jaws 28b, 30b. Alternatively, the toothing 42b could also be arranged circumferentially between the battery protection unit 16b and the implement housing 14b. The teeth 78b and the tooth recess 80b of the toothing 42b are arranged next to one another perpendicular to the main impact direction, with the toothing 42b being provided to absorb a force in the main impact direction. Alternatively, the teeth 78b and the tooth recess 80b of the toothing 42b could be arranged next to one another parallel to the main impact direction, with the alternative arrangement of the toothing 42b being provided to absorb a force perpendicular to the main impact direction. The first battery protection element 22b is attached to the implement housing 14b with two screws 102b. The second battery protection element 24b is attached to the implement housing 14b with two screws 102b. Each screw 102b is arranged parallel to the most likely main impact direction 32b. Each screw 102b has a screw dome 112b. A damping element 114b is arranged in each screw dome 112b. The damping element 114b is designed as a rubber spacer sleeve. The rubber spacer sleeve is made of an elastic material, such as rubber or elastomer. Alternatively, the damping element 114b could also be designed as a metallic spring element. It is also conceivable that the damping element 114b is designed as a shape memory alloy. The damping element 114b is intended to dampen a shock load. The screw dome 112b is intended to prevent a blocking state and thus a shock load on the screw connection. The energy absorption unit 44b forms a damping cascade. The damping cascade consists of the damping elements 114b of the screw 102b and the toothing 42b. The damping elements 114b are arranged in the damping cascade in front of the toothing 42b.

The teeth 78b and the corresponding tooth recess 80b are arranged at a distance from one another in the unloaded state. The teeth 78b and the corresponding tooth recess 80b are arranged without contact with one another in the unloaded state. The teeth 78b each have two tooth flanks 84b, 84'b. The corresponding tooth recess 80b has tooth base flanks 88b, 88'b corresponding to the tooth flanks 84b, 84'b. In any state other than a block state, the toothing 42b has a shortest distance 108b between the base surface 82b and the corresponding tooth base surface 86b, which is greater than the shortest distance 106b between each of the two tooth flanks 84b, 84'b and the corresponding tooth base flank 88b, 88'b. The battery protection unit 16b and the tool housing 14b have a shortest distance 104b in an area of the screw dome 112b. The shortest distance 104b is greater than the shortest distance 108b. The shortest distance 104b is greater than the shortest distance 106b. Figure 7 shows a schematic flow diagram of a method for protecting a rechargeable battery 18b of a portable working device 12b, for example a hand-held power tool, a portable gardening tool, a portable household appliance and/or the like, by means of a protective device 10b.

In a method step 90b, a battery 18b is protected from impact loading by a battery protection unit 16b that is designed differently from a working device housing 14b. The battery 18b is protected from impact damage by a partial lateral shielding of a battery mounting area 20b of the working device 12b by the battery protection unit 16b. The battery 18b is protected from impact damage, for example by an impact as a result of the working device 12b falling and/or by the working device 12b hitting a wall.

In a further method step 92b, the implement housing 14b is protected from the impact load by the battery protection unit 16b. The implement housing 14b is protected from impact damage by the battery protection unit 16b being designed in such a way that it is destroyed by a mechanical impact load before the implement housing 14b is damaged.

In a further method step 94b, the working device 12b and/or the accumulator 18b are protected from the impact load by four energy absorption elements 46b, which absorb the impact energy during the impact.

In a further method step 96b, the working device 12b and/or the accumulator 18b are protected during the impact load by a damping structure 48b arranged on each inner jaw side 58b, which absorbs impact energy during the impact.

In a further method step 98b, the accumulator 18b is additionally protected from contamination and/or dirty water.

In a further method step 100b, the working device 12b and/or the accumulator 18b is protected by an energy absorption unit 44b during the impact load. which absorbs impact energy during the impact. The energy absorption unit 44b is formed by a damping cascade. In the damping cascade, the impact energy is first dampened by the damping elements 114b in the screw connection. The impact load is dampened by the damping elements 114b until the teeth 78b and the tooth recess 80b of the toothing 42b are contacted. The impact energy is then absorbed by the toothing 42b. During the impact load, the tooth flanks 84b and the corresponding tooth base flanks 88b are pressed against one another, whereby the energy absorption of the energy absorption unit is achieved. If the impact force is so great that the base area 82b of the teeth 78b meets the corresponding tooth base flanks 88b, then a block state is reached. In the block state, no further impact energy is absorbed in addition to the elastic and/or plastic material deformation.

Claims

Expectations

1. Protective device (10a; 10b), in particular an impact protection device, for a portable working device (12a; 12b), with at least one battery protection unit (16a; 16b) designed differently from a working device housing (14a; 14b), which is designed to protect at least one battery (18a; 18b) of the working device (12a; 12b) from damage, in particular impact damage, for example due to an impact as a result of a fall of the working device (12a; 12b), by at least partially surrounding a battery mounting area (20a; 20b) at least laterally.

2. Protection device (10a; 10b) according to claim 1, characterized in that the battery protection unit (16a; 16b), in particular a first battery protection element (22a; 22b) and a second battery protection element (24a; 24b) of the battery protection unit (16a; 16b), at least in a connection region (26a; 26b) of the battery protection unit (16a; 16b) in which the battery protection unit (16a; 16b) is connected to the working device (12a; 12b), surrounds the working device housing (14a; 14b) at least to a large extent, preferably completely.

3. Protection device (10a; 10b) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the battery protection unit (16a; 16b) comprises at least a first battery protection element (22a; 22b) and at least a second battery protection element (24a; 24b), which is formed separately from the first battery protection element (22a; 22b).

4. Protection device (10a; 10b) according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that the first battery protection element (22a; 22b) forms at least one, in particular full-surface, first battery protection jaw (28a; 28b) and/or that the second battery protection element (24a; 24b) forms a, in particular full-surface, second battery protection jaw (30a; 30b). Protection device (10a; 10b) according to claim 4, characterized in that the first battery protection jaw (28a; 28b) and/or the second battery protection jaw (30a; 30b) has a main extension plane which is aligned at least substantially parallel to a most probable main impact direction (32a; 32b) and/or at least substantially perpendicular to a battery mounting direction (34a; 34b). Protection device (10a; 10b) according to one of claims 3 to 5, characterized in that the first battery protection element (22a; 22b) and the second battery protection element (24a; 24b) are connected to one another by at least one detachable connecting element (36a; 36b), for example a screw. Protection device (10a; 10b) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the battery protection unit (16a; 16b) is connected to the tool housing (14a; 14b) free of screw connections, preferably in a non-destructively detachable manner. Protection device (10a; 10b) according to one of the preceding claims, in particular according to claim 7, characterized in that the battery protection unit (16a; 16b) is connected to the tool housing (14a; 14b) by means of a positive connection (60a; 60b). Protection device (10a) according to one of the preceding claims, in particular according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that the battery protection unit (16a) is connected to the tool housing (14a) by means of a tongue and groove connection (62a). Protection device (10a) according to claim 9, characterized in that a main extension plane of a form-fitting element (38a) of the battery protection unit (16a) is designed to run obliquely relative to an expected main impact direction (32a) in order to produce the tongue-and-groove connection (62a). 11. Protection device (10a) according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that the form-fitting element (38a) of the battery protection unit (16a) is designed to run all the way around the battery protection unit (16a) and/or that a corresponding form-fitting element (40a) of the tool housing (14a) is designed to run all the way around the tool housing (14a).

12. Protection device (10a) according to one of claims 9 to 11, characterized in that the form-fitting element (38a) of the battery protection unit (16a) and/or a corresponding form-fitting element (40a) of the tool housing (14a) has a tapering contour (68a).

13. Protection device (10b) according to claim 8, characterized in that the battery protection unit (16b) is interlocked with the tool housing (14b).

14. Protection device (10b) according to claim 13, characterized in that a toothing (42b) between the battery protection unit (16b) and the tool housing (14b) forms an energy absorption unit (44b) which is intended to at least partially absorb energy from an impact.

15. Protection device (10b) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the battery protection unit (16b) has at least one flexible elastic energy absorption element (46b) which is molded or attached to a battery protection element (22b; 24b) of the battery protection unit (16b).

16. Protection device (10a; 10b) at least according to claim 4, characterized in that at least one battery protection jaw (28a; 28b; 30a; 30b) of one of the battery protection elements (22a; 22b; 24a; 24b) has a surface extending over at least a large part of a jaw side of the battery protection jaw (28a; 28b; 30a; 30b) and integrally, preferably monolithically, the battery protection element (22a; 22b; 24a; 24b) comprises a molded damping structure (48a; 48b) and/or a stiffening structure (50a; 50b). Protection device (10a; 10b) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a battery mounting unit (52a; 52b) which forms at least the battery mounting area (20a; 20b) for mounting the battery (18a; 18b) on the working device (12a; 12b), wherein the battery mounting unit (52a; 52b) is designed such that the mounting of the battery (18a; 18b) is only possible when the battery protection element (22a; 22b; 24a; 24b) is installed, in particular properly. Protection device (10a; 10b) according to claim 17, characterized in that at least one battery mounting element (54a; 54b) of the battery mounting unit (52a; 52b) is connected in one piece or monolithically to the battery protection element (22a; 22b; 24a; 24b). Protection device (10a; 10b) according to claim 18, characterized in that the battery mounting element (54a; 54b) forms at least part of a guide rail (56a; 56b) for guiding an insertion or removal movement of the battery (18a; 18b). Protective device (10a; 10b) according to one of claims 17 to 19, characterized in that the battery mounting unit (52a; 52b) is formed at least to a large extent, preferably completely, by the battery protection unit (16a; 16b) which can be connected to the tool housing (14a; 14b) in a non-destructively detachable manner. Battery protection element (22; 22b; 24a; 24b) for forming a protective device (10a; 10b), in particular a shock protection device, according to one of the preceding claims. Portable tool (12a; 12b), for example a hand tool, portable garden tool, portable household appliance and/or the like, with the protective device (10a; 10b) according to one of claims 1 to 20. Method for protecting at least one accumulator (18a; 18b) of a portable working device (12a; 12b), for example a hand-held power tool, a portable gardening tool, a portable household appliance and/or the like, in particular by means of a protective device (10a; 10b) according to one of claims 1 to 20, with at least one battery protection unit (16a; 16b) designed differently from a working device housing (14a; 14b), wherein the accumulator (18a; 18b) is protected from impact damage, for example by an impact as a result of a fall of the working device (12a; 12b), by at least partially shielding at least laterally a battery mounting area (20a; 20b) of the working device (12a; 12b) by the battery protection unit (16a; 16b).