Patent ID: 7055789
Filing Date: 2006-06-06
Classification: B25H,F16M

Abstract:
1. A power hand-tool support apparatus adapted to support a manually operated power hand-tool and allow an operator to move the hand-tool to a multiplicity of chosen locations in a three-dimensional space, the apparatus comprising: (A) a multi-component articulating arm, comprising a length with a proximal end adapted to be structurally attached to an external support, a distal end adapted to be detachably attached to the hand-tool, and a plurality of sections, each section capable of moving in a separate direction relative to an other section, wherein the arm is capable of allowing the operator to move the hand-tool to any of the chosen locations in the space, and (B) at least three positional feedback means, each capable of communicating a position of the positional feedback means, the positional feedback means being located at separated positions along the length of the arm, each position chosen to allow measurement of a position of a section of the arm relative to another section of the arm, such that a combination of the positions defines a selectable datum position of the hand-tool, wherein the three positional feedback means are adapted to be connected to an electrical controlling means to receive the angular positions of the positional feedback means and correlate the positions, and wherein at least one of the three positional feedback means is an optical encoder to digitally measure a position of a component of the arm.