Patent ID: 6104162
Filing Date: 2000-08-15
Classification: H02J,H02M

Abstract:
A method of providing either AC or DC power for an electrically powered tool having a motor designed to be powered by an insertable battery which fits into a recess in the tool comprisingproviding a multi-functional power block capable of being powered either by AC mains or DC power,the multi-functional power block including an AC to DC, a DC to DC convertor, a solid state power monitor which detects the voltage and current used by the tool motor so that the multi-functional power block can automatically set the voltage and current to be delivered to the tool's motor at the voltage and current required to produce the tool motor's full rated driving torque, and a battery charger capable of recharging an insertable battery or multi-functional battery module which fits into a recess in the multi-functional power block,providing an AC mains plug and a flexible line running from the AC mains plug to the multi-functional power block,providing a first DC plug and a flexible line running from the first DC plug to the multi-functional power block,providing a flexible line running from the multi-functional power block to a second male DC plug, andproviding a DC power connector designed to receive the second male DC plug and to fit into the empty recess in the electrically powered tool which recess normally receives the batteries which power the tool.