Patent Description:
Power tools are generally utilized to perform operations such as yardwork, gardening, and the like. While power tools can make manual operations more efficient and easier to perform, they require safety controls and adjustability to adapt to different operational environments while keeping the operator safe from harm. Document <CIT> provides an edger wherein a cutter device is arranged on one side of an edger frame, the position of a front wheel is adjustable, the position of one of the rear wheels situated on the other side of the edger frame is also adjustable, and a mechanism for changing the position of the front wheel as well as changing the position of the rear wheel is performed by a single control lever at the operator's station. With this arrangement, the adjustment of the depth of the cutter and the adjustment for maintaining the edger in a horizontal condition when the edger is driven on a curbstone can be easily effected by the operator.

Powered edgers, for example, are significantly more efficient at edging yards and other environments as compared to traditional manual labor. However, because of their relative size, they may be cumbersome in certain environments and when operated under certain conditions. Moreover, rotating edging blades are typically exposed and create danger to the operator.

Accordingly, improved power tools are desired in the art. In particular, power tools which provide flexibility and increased safety would be advantageous.

Aspects and advantages of the invention in accordance with the present disclosure will be set forth in part in the following description, or may be obvious from the description, or may be learned through practice of the technology.

The invention provides a power tool according to claim <NUM>. The power tool includes a drop wheel moveable in a vertical direction about a pivot axis; a spring rotatably biasing the drop wheel about the pivot axis; a stop mechanism defining a plurality of stop positions each corresponding with a different relative position of the drop wheel; and a user interface configured to selectively disengage the stop mechanism to permit the drop wheel to rotate about the pivot axis until the stop wheel contacts an underlying surface below the power tool, wherein the user interface is disposed at a handle of the power tool.

In accordance with an embodiment, a power tool is provided. The power tool includes a housing; a plurality of wheels coupled to the housing; a blade rotatable about a rotational axis; a boom extending from the housing, wherein the boom is pivotally mounted to the housing, and wherein the boom defines a longitudinal axis; and a handle rotatably coupled to the boom and configured to rotate about the longitudinal axis between a first position and a second position.

In accordance with another embodiment, an edger is provided. The edger includes a housing; a plurality of wheels coupled to the housing, the plurality of wheels comprising: a drop wheel selectively moveable in a vertical direction about a pivot axis, the drop wheel disposed on a first side of the housing; and a height-adjustable wheel moveable in the vertical direction about a pivot axis, the height-adjustable wheel disposed on a second side of the housing opposite the first side, wherein the height adjustable wheel is configured to set a height of a rotatable blade of the edger; a boom extending from the housing, wherein the boom is pivotally mounted to the housing, and wherein the boom defines a longitudinal axis; and a handle rotatably coupled to the boom and configured to rotate about the longitudinal axis between a first position and a second position.

A full and enabling disclosure of the present invention, including the best mode of making and using the present systems and methods, directed to one of ordinary skill in the art, is set forth in the specification, which makes reference to the appended figures, in which:.

Reference now will be made in detail to embodiments of the present invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Moreover, each example is provided by way of explanation, rather than limitation of, the technology. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that modifications and variations can be made in the present technology without departing from the scope of the claims. Thus, it is intended that the present disclosure covers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims.

The singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. For example, a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of features is not necessarily limited only to those features but may include other features not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. Further, unless expressly stated to the contrary, "or" refers to an inclusive- or and not to an exclusive- or.

Terms of approximation, such as "about," "generally," "approximately," or "substantially," include values within ten percent greater or less than the stated value. When used in the context of an angle or direction, such terms include within ten degrees greater or less than the stated angle or direction. For example, "generally vertical" includes directions within ten degrees of vertical in any direction, e.g., clockwise or counter-clockwise.

Benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems are described below with regard to specific embodiments.

In general, power tools described herein are configured to be easily adjustable and used within a wide range of operational environments without exposing the operator to unnecessary harm. In a non-limiting embodiment, the power tool is an edger having an edging blade. The edger can include a drop wheel and a height-adjustable wheel. The drop wheel can allow the operator to better balance the edger when working in certain environments. The height-adjustable wheel can allow the operator to adjust the height of the edger. Interfaces allowing the operator to make adjustments to the drop wheel or the height-adjustable wheel can be located along a handle of the edger. The handle may be reconfigurable between two or more positions (e.g., angular orientations) to allow the operator to select a suitable configuration for each particular operation being performed. These and other features will be described in greater detail below.

Referring now to the drawings, <FIG> and <FIG> illustrate a power tool <NUM> in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The exemplary power tool <NUM> depicted in <FIG> and <FIG> is an edger including a rotatable edging blade <NUM>. In other embodiments, the power tool <NUM> may include another type of power tool such as a lawn mower, a snow blower, or the like.

In one or more embodiments, the edging blade <NUM> may be removably coupled to the power tool <NUM>. The edging blade <NUM> may be rotatable about an axis <NUM> and driven by a motor <NUM> (<FIG>). As depicted, the edging blade <NUM> may include a resilient blade having one or more cutting surfaces <NUM>. The cutting surface(s) <NUM> can include, for example, one or more serrations or teeth having sharpened edges for penetrating into and edging an underlying surface. In an embodiment, the edging blade <NUM> can have a rectangular, or generally rectangular shape. In certain instances, the edging blade <NUM> may rotate in a clockwise direction. In other instances, the edging blade <NUM> may rotate in a counter-clockwise direction. In certain embodiments, the direction of rotation of the edging blade <NUM> may be adjustable. In other embodiments, the direction of rotation of the edging blade <NUM> may be limited to only one of clockwise or counter-clockwise rotation.

A guard <NUM> may extend around at least a portion of a perimeter of the edging blade <NUM>. For instance, in the illustrated embodiment the guard <NUM> is disposed around an upper side of the edging blade <NUM>. The guard <NUM> can include a backing <NUM> and a flange <NUM> extending from the backing <NUM> and overhanging the edging blade <NUM>. The flange <NUM> may protect the operator from kick up of debris being ejected by operation of the edging blade <NUM>. The guard <NUM> may terminate at a vertical elevation below which the edging blade <NUM> may penetrate into the underlying surface. In such a manner, the guard <NUM> does not interfere with edging operations.

An edge guide <NUM> can extend in a downward direction and guide the edger in a straight line. The edge guide <NUM> can include a spring loaded, or otherwise biased, mechanism configured to bias the edge guide <NUM> downward. In the depicted embodiment, the edge guide <NUM> is pivotable about the axis <NUM>, allowing the edge guide <NUM> to displace in an upward direction when encountering hard terrain, such as stone pavers, rocks, and the like. In an embodiment, the edge guide <NUM> may be mounted to the same axle as the edging blade <NUM>. The edge guide <NUM> may include one or more stops which prevent the edge guide <NUM> from rotating past one or more prescribed rotational thresholds. That is, for example, the edge guide <NUM> may be configured to rotate about the axis <NUM> a maximum rotational distance between a downward-most position and an upward-most position. The edge guide <NUM> may be removable from the power tool <NUM>.

The edge guide <NUM> can allow the operator to run the edging blade <NUM> along hard surfaces, like curbs and driveways. By aligning the edge guide <NUM> with respect to the hard surface, the operator can position the edging blade <NUM> proximate to the hard surface without hitting the surface with the edging blade <NUM>.

The power tool <NUM> can further include an edge guide adjuster <NUM>. The edge guide adjuster <NUM> can allow for adjustment of a height of the edge guide <NUM>. In the depicted embodiment, the edge guide adjuster <NUM> includes a lever extending in a generally vertical direction. The edge guide adjuster <NUM> can be manipulated by the operator to adjust a relative height of the edge guide <NUM>. For instance, when the operator pushes the edge guide adjuster <NUM> down, the edge guide <NUM> can move in a downward direction. Conversely, when the operator pulls the edge guide adjuster <NUM> up, the edge guide <NUM> can move in an upward direction. In one or more embodiments, the edge guide adjuster <NUM> may be infinitively adjustable between a minimum height and a maximum height. That is, the edge guide adjuster <NUM> may not include specific stop locations resulting in a fixed number of vertical positions. Instead, the edge guide adjuster <NUM> may be adjustable to any location between two adjustment end points. In other embodiments, the edge guide adjuster <NUM> may be adjustable between a plurality of preset positions. For instance, the edge guide adjuster <NUM> may be adjustable between at least two positions, such as at least three positions, such as at least four positions, such as at least five positions. In a non-illustrated embodiment, the edge guide adjuster <NUM> can adjust a height of the edge guide <NUM> through rotational movement. That is, as the edge guide adjuster <NUM> is rotated, the relative height of the edge guide <NUM> may change. Other mechanisms can be utilized for the edge guide adjuster <NUM>. Moreover, in certain instances, the edge guide adjuster <NUM> may be disposed at a location spaced apart from the edge guide <NUM>. For example, the edge guide adjuster <NUM> may be disposed along a handle of the power tool <NUM>.

A guard sweep <NUM> may be disposed at an operable location with respect to the guard <NUM>. In an embodiment, the guard sweep <NUM> can be disposed between the edging blade <NUM> and the backing <NUM> of the guard <NUM>. In a more particular embodiment, the guard sweep <NUM> may be disposed between the edge guide <NUM> and the backing <NUM> of the guard <NUM>.

The guard sweep <NUM> is configured to move relative to the guard <NUM> and clear debris that can become caught thereagainst. The guard sweep <NUM> can rotate about the axis <NUM> between a forwardmost position and a rearmost position. In certain instances, the guard sweep <NUM> can be spring biased to a home position (such as illustrated in <FIG>). The guard sweep <NUM> can move from the home position in either, or both, the forward direction or the rear direction to remove debris from the guard <NUM>. In certain instances, the guard sweep <NUM> can include a first portion configured to clean the backing <NUM> of the guard <NUM> and a second portion configured to clean the flange <NUM>.

A blade alignment indicator <NUM> may be disposed along the power tool <NUM> to permit an operator to discern the relative position of the edging blade <NUM> with respect to the power tool <NUM> during use. In such a manner, the operator can align the edging blade <NUM> during use without having to visually see the edging blade <NUM>. Instead, the operator can view the projected path of the edging blade <NUM> using the blade alignment indicator <NUM>. While the blade alignment indicator <NUM> is depicted at a forward location of the guard <NUM>, in other embodiments, the blade alignment indicator <NUM> may be at a rear or middle location along the guard.

In an embodiment, the blade alignment indicator <NUM> may include a projection extending from the guard <NUM>. For example, as depicted in <FIG>, the blade alignment indicator <NUM> may extend from the backing <NUM> of the guard <NUM>. In another embodiment, the blade alignment indicator <NUM> may include a projection extending from the flange <NUM> of the guard <NUM>. In yet another embodiment, the blade alignment indicator <NUM> may extend from another portion of the power tool <NUM>. In a non-illustrated embodiment, the blade alignment indicator <NUM> may include an opening through which the operator can look to see and align the edging blade <NUM> relative to the underlying surface. In yet another non-illustrated embodiment, the blade alignment indicator <NUM> may include another visual indicia, such as, for example, a line projected (e.g., from a laser source) from the power tool <NUM>. Use of the blade alignment indicator <NUM> can reduce the risk of the operator being hit with debris which may occur in traditional edgers that require the operator to visually see the edging blade in order to align the edging blade with the underlying surface.

<FIG> illustrates an embodiment of the power tool <NUM> in accordance with an embodiment. In the illustrated embodiment, the power tool <NUM> includes a blade lock <NUM> configured to selectively lock the edging blade <NUM> at a relatively fixed position. When engaged, the blade lock <NUM> can lock the edging blade <NUM> so as to prevent the edging blade <NUM> from rotating. This may be desirable, for example, when removing the edging blade <NUM> from the power tool <NUM>. When the blade lock <NUM> is released, i.e., when the blade lock <NUM> returns to the unlocked state, the edging blade <NUM> may be permitted to rotate.

In an embodiment, the power tool <NUM> can include a storage area configured to receive a secondary edging blade <NUM>. The secondary edging blade <NUM> may be interchangeable with the edging blade <NUM>. In certain instances, the secondary edging blade <NUM> may be identical to the edging blade <NUM>. In other instances, the secondary edging blade <NUM> may have one or more different characteristics as compared to the edging blade <NUM>. For instance, the edging blade <NUM> and secondary edging blade may include different blade types to be used in different applications or within different environments.

Similarly, tooling <NUM> may be stored on the power tool <NUM> so that the operator can replace the edging blade <NUM> with another edging blade or the secondary edging blade <NUM>. The tooling <NUM> may include a wrench or other tools which the operator needs to perform the blade change operation.

Referring again to <FIG> and <FIG>, the power tool <NUM> can generally include a housing <NUM> configured to protect one or more electronic components of the power tool <NUM>. In an embodiment, the housing <NUM> can include a multi-piece construction. For instance, the housing <NUM> can include a first portion <NUM> and a second portion <NUM>. In an embodiment, the first and second portions <NUM> and <NUM> can be joined together with one or more sealing elements configured to prevent debris or water contamination within the housing <NUM>.

The power tool <NUM> can include two or more wheels <NUM> coupled with the housing <NUM>. In the embodiment depicted in <FIG> and <FIG>, the power tool <NUM> includes a first wheel <NUM>, a second wheel <NUM>, and a third wheel <NUM>. The first and second wheels <NUM> and <NUM> are depicted as having a common size while the third wheel <NUM> is depicted smaller than the first and second wheels <NUM> and <NUM>. In another embodiment, the wheels <NUM> can all have different sizes as compared to one another. In yet another embodiment, the wheels <NUM> can all share a common size. In yet another embodiment, the first and third wheels <NUM> and <NUM> can share a common size. In yet another embodiment, the second and third wheels <NUM> and <NUM> can share a common size.

The first wheel <NUM> is depicted on a first side <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. The second wheel <NUM> is depicted on a second side <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. The third wheel <NUM> is depicted on the first side <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. These relative positions may be changed without departing from the scope of the invention.

In an embodiment, the first wheel <NUM> can be a drive wheel. The drive wheel can be selectively driven by a motor (not illustrated). In another embodiment, the first wheel <NUM> can be passive such that the first wheel <NUM> rotates when the power tool <NUM> is pushed or pulled by the operator.

The second wheel <NUM> can be a drop wheel. As described in greater detail below, the drop wheel can be selectively adjustable between a plurality of positions corresponding with different vertical heights.

The third wheel <NUM> can be a height-adjustable wheel configured to be adjusted between a plurality of different heights. As described in greater detail below, the height of the edging blade <NUM>, and the resulting depth of the edged cut, can be adjusted by changing a relative height of the height-adjustable wheel. While the height-adjustable wheel is illustrated on a particular side of the power tool <NUM>, in accordance with another embodiment, the height-adjustable wheel can be disposed on any side of the power tool <NUM>. By way of example, the second wheel <NUM> and the third wheel <NUM> can be disposed on a same side of the power tool <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates an embodiment of the power tool <NUM> with the housing <NUM> removed. As depicted, in one or more embodiments, the power tool <NUM> can include a remote power source, e.g., a battery <NUM>, which can provide power to the motor <NUM>. In some embodiments, the battery <NUM> may be at least partially, such as fully disposed within the housing <NUM>. In other embodiments, the battery <NUM> can be disposed at least partially external to the housing <NUM>. The battery <NUM> may be removable for charging or charged while connected to the power tool <NUM>. For instance, the power tool <NUM> can include a port (not illustrated) configured to receive a cable connected to an external power supply, such as a wall outlet.

<FIG> and <FIG> illustrate views of the height-adjustable wheel including the third wheel <NUM> and an adjustment assembly <NUM> configured to adjust the height of the third wheel <NUM> between a plurality of different vertical positions. The adjustment assembly <NUM> can generally include a stop mechanism <NUM> defining a plurality of stop positions <NUM> each corresponding with a different relative position of the third wheel <NUM>. The stop mechanism <NUM> can include a rotatable element <NUM> coupled to the third wheel <NUM>. A linkage <NUM> having an engagement feature <NUM> can be selectively moved between an engaged position (as depicted), where the rotatable element <NUM> is held in a relatively fixed orientation, and a disengaged position (not illustrated), where the rotatable element <NUM> is at least partially free to rotate. A cable <NUM> can be coupled to the linkage <NUM> such that an operator can disengage the engagement feature <NUM> from the stop positions <NUM> by pulling on the cable <NUM> and pivoting the linkage <NUM>. The cable <NUM> can extend to a handle of the power tool <NUM> through a cable passageway <NUM>. In an embodiment disclosed but not claimed, the linkage <NUM> can be coupled with a motor, e.g., a servo motor, to selectively move the engagement feature <NUM> between the engaged and disengaged positions.

The adjustment assembly <NUM> can further include a spring <NUM> configured to bias the third wheel <NUM> in a downward direction. In a particular embodiment, the spring <NUM> can be a torsion spring including a plurality of coils <NUM> and one or more legs <NUM> extending therefrom. A guide member <NUM> coupled with the third wheel <NUM> can be biased in a downward direction by the leg <NUM> of the spring <NUM> such that when the engagement feature <NUM> is released from the stop positions <NUM>, the third wheel <NUM> moves in the downward direction under a biasing load provided at least in part by the spring <NUM>. The guide member <NUM> may be configured to move in an arc-shaped path between a first end position <NUM> and a second end position <NUM>. The first end position <NUM> can correspond with a maximum vertical elevation of the third wheel <NUM> while the second end position <NUM> can correspond with a minimum vertical elevation of the drop wheel. When the guide member <NUM> is disposed at the first end position <NUM>, the edging blade <NUM> is capable of maximum surface penetration. Conversely, when the guide member <NUM> is disposed at the second end position <NUM>, the edging blade <NUM> is configured to provide minimal surface penetration.

When the operator engages the cable <NUM>, e.g., when the operator pulls on the cable <NUM> from a height-adjustable user interface disposed on the handle (described in greater detail hereinafter), the linkage <NUM> can move, e.g., pivot, from the engaged position to the disengaged position, thereby allowing the rotatable element <NUM> to rotate. The spring <NUM> can then move the guide member <NUM>, causing a swing arm <NUM> coupled between the rotatable element <NUM> and the third wheel <NUM> to rotate about a pivot axis <NUM>. As the swing arm <NUM> rotates, the height of the third wheel <NUM> changes.

To raise the height of the edging blade <NUM>, the operator can allow the third wheel <NUM> to be biased by the spring <NUM> in a downward direction. In certain instances, the spring <NUM> can have a sufficient spring rate so as to bias the third wheel <NUM> downward. In other instances, the operator may lift the third wheel <NUM> off the ground, e.g., by pivoting the power tool <NUM> on the first and second wheels <NUM> and <NUM>. The operator can release the height-adjustable user interface such that the engagement feature <NUM> of the linkage <NUM> interfaces with a stop position <NUM> of the rotatable element <NUM>. Releasing of the height-adjustable user interface may be performed after the third wheel <NUM> reaches the desired height.

Conversely, to lower the height of the edging blade <NUM>, the operator can move the third wheel <NUM> in a direction so as to coil the spring <NUM>. That is, the operator may push down on the power tool <NUM> or otherwise provide force against the third wheel <NUM>, thereby causing the guide member <NUM> to move towards the second position <NUM> and allowing the third wheel <NUM> to move upward. In certain instances, the operator may be required to overcome the spring rate of the spring <NUM>. That is, the spring <NUM> may provide more rotational resistance to the guide member <NUM> than the force thereagainst as provided by the weight of the power tool <NUM>. In other instances, simply disengaging the engagement feature <NUM> of the linkage <NUM> from the stop positions <NUM> may result in the third wheel <NUM> pivoting such that the edging blade <NUM> is lowered.

As illustrated via a schematic view in <FIG>, when edging a lawn L adjacent to a curb C, the edge guide <NUM> can ride along the curb C to guide the edging blade <NUM> and create a close-fit cut. However, in certain instances, such as that depicted in <FIG>, one or more wheels of the power tool <NUM> can be raised from the neighboring ground surface S (in the exemplary schematic, the ground surface S is a neighboring street). The resulting lateral imbalance can cause the power tool <NUM> to cant (tilt) T from a vertical axis A. This, in turn, may create a dangerous situation for nearby bystanders and the operator. Additionally, this may affect performance of the power tool <NUM> and the visual appearance of the edged cut. Accordingly, use of a drop wheel may be desirable. The drop wheel (e.g., the suspended second wheel <NUM>) can move from a first position <NUM> suspended in the air, to a second position <NUM> in contact with the underlying ground surface S. Movement from the first position <NUM> to the second position <NUM> can occur along direction <NUM>. The drop wheel can be biased to the second position <NUM> and selectively dropped so as to contact the ground surface S.

<FIG> and <FIG> illustrate views of the drop wheel including the second wheel <NUM> and an adjustment assembly <NUM> configured to adjust the height of the second wheel <NUM> between a plurality of different vertical positions. Unlike the third wheel <NUM> and the adjustment assembly <NUM> which are used to adjust a vertical position of the edging blade <NUM>, the second wheel <NUM> and the adjustment assembly <NUM> can be part of the drop wheel. The drop wheel may allow the operator to support the power tool <NUM> when riding along curbs or other drop-offs where the second wheel <NUM> is suspended in the air. To compensate for these situations, the operator may selectively adjust the height of the second wheel <NUM> to contact the underlying surface. As described below, in accordance with certain embodiments, the adjustment assembly <NUM> can operate similar to the aforementioned adjustment assembly <NUM>. However, in other embodiments, the adjustment assembly <NUM> can include one or more different operating protocols or elements as compared to the adjustment assembly <NUM>.

In an embodiment the adjustment assembly <NUM> generally includes a stop mechanism <NUM> defining a plurality of stop positions <NUM> each corresponding with a different relative vertical position of the second wheel <NUM>. The stop mechanism <NUM> includes a rotatable element <NUM> coupled to the second wheel <NUM>. A linkage <NUM> having an engagement feature <NUM> can be selectively moved between an engaged position (as depicted), where the rotatable element <NUM> is held in a relatively fixed orientation, and a disengaged position (not illustrated), where the rotatable element <NUM> is at least partially free to rotate. A cable <NUM> is coupled to the linkage <NUM> such that an operator can disengage the engagement feature <NUM> from the stop positions <NUM> by pulling on the cable <NUM>. The cable <NUM> extends to a handle of the power tool <NUM> through a cable passageway <NUM>. In an embodiment disclosed but not claimed, the linkage <NUM> can be coupled with a motor, e.g., a servo motor, to selectively move the engagement feature <NUM> between the engaged and disengaged positions.

The adjustment assembly <NUM> further includes a spring <NUM> configured to bias the second wheel <NUM> in a downward direction. In a particular embodiment, the spring <NUM> can be a torsion spring including a plurality of coils <NUM> and one or more legs <NUM> extending therefrom. The plurality of coils <NUM> can define a central axis which may extend parallel, or generally parallel, with a rotatable axis of the stop mechanism <NUM>.

A guide member <NUM> coupled with the second wheel <NUM> can be biased in a downward direction by the leg <NUM> of the spring <NUM> such that when the engagement feature <NUM> is released from the stop positions <NUM>, the second wheel <NUM> moves in the downward direction. The guide member <NUM> may be configured to move in an arc-shaped path between a first end position <NUM> and a second end position <NUM>. The first end position <NUM> can correspond with a maximum vertical elevation of the second wheel <NUM> while the second end position <NUM> can correspond with a minimum vertical elevation of the second wheel <NUM>.

When the operator engages the cable <NUM>, e.g., when the operator pulls on the cable <NUM> from a height-adjustable user interface disposed on the handle (described in greater detail hereinafter), the linkage <NUM> can move, e.g., rotate, from an engaged position to a disengaged position, thereby allowing the rotatable element <NUM> to rotate. The spring <NUM> can then move the guide member <NUM>, causing a swing arm <NUM> coupled between the rotatable element <NUM> and the second wheel <NUM> to rotate about a pivot axis <NUM>. As the swing arm <NUM> rotates, the height of the second wheel <NUM> changes.

To deploy the drop wheel (i.e., to lower the second wheel <NUM>), the operator can allow the second wheel <NUM> to be biased by the spring <NUM> in a downward direction. In certain instances, the second wheel <NUM> may displace towards and front end of the power tool <NUM> when the second wheel <NUM> is repositioned from the maximum vertical elevation to the minimum vertical elevation. After the second wheel <NUM> reaches the underlying surface, the operator can release the user interface such that the engagement feature <NUM> of the linkage <NUM> interfaces with a stop position <NUM> of the rotatable element <NUM>.

Conversely, to retract the drop wheel (i.e., to raise the second wheel <NUM>), the operator can move the second wheel <NUM> in a direction so as to coil the spring <NUM>. That is, the operator may push down on the power tool <NUM> or otherwise provide force against the second wheel <NUM>, thereby causing the guide member <NUM> to move towards the second position <NUM> and allowing the second wheel <NUM> to move upward. In certain instances, the operator may be required to overcome the spring rate of the spring <NUM>. That is, the spring <NUM> may provide more rotational force to the guide member <NUM> than the force thereagainst as provided by the weight of the power tool <NUM>. In other instances, simply disengaging the engagement feature <NUM> of the linkage <NUM> from the stop positions <NUM> may result in the second wheel <NUM> pivoting to the retracted position.

<FIG> illustrates a partial side view of the power tool <NUM> in accordance with an embodiment. As illustrated, the power tool <NUM> can include a boom <NUM> extending from the housing <NUM> to a handle of the power tool <NUM>. In one or more embodiments, the boom <NUM> may be dynamically coupled to the housing <NUM>. As used herein, dynamic coupling between the boom <NUM> and the housing <NUM> may refer to adjustable coupling whereby the boom <NUM> is at least partially reconfigurable (e.g., repositionable) between a plurality of positions. In the illustrated embodiment, the boom <NUM> may be adjustable between a plurality of orientations. For example, the boom <NUM> may be pivoted about an axis (not shown) between two or more positions. The two or more positions may each correspond with different operating positions, each affecting a different relative location of the handle of the power tool <NUM> with respect to the housing <NUM>.

A tilt plate <NUM> may define a plurality of stop locations <NUM> each corresponding with a different pivotal angle of the boom <NUM>. For instance, the stop locations <NUM> can include a first stop location 206A, a second stop location 206B, and a third stop location 206C. More or less stop locations <NUM> may be included along the tilt plate <NUM> without departing from the scope of the disclosure.

A release interface <NUM> can be configured to selectively engage with one or more of the stop locations <NUM> to selectively secure the boom <NUM> at a relatively fixed angle with respect to the housing <NUM>. For instance, when the release interface <NUM> is coupled with the first stop location 206A, the boom <NUM> may extend to a maximum secured height, whereas when the release interface <NUM> is coupled with the third stop location 206C, the boom <NUM> may extend to a minimum secured height. The boom <NUM> may be pivotally adjustable beyond either, or both, the first and third stop locations 206A or 206C, however, in some embodiments, the power tool <NUM> is only operable when the boom <NUM> is secured at a relatively fixed location by engaging the release interface <NUM> with one or more of the stop location <NUM>.

The exemplary release interface <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> includes a rotatable element and one or more pins which can be selectively interfaced with one or more of the stop locations <NUM> when the rotatable element is disposed at a prescribed orientation. In certain instances, the rotatable element can define structure which pulls the one or more pins from the stop locations <NUM> when the rotatable element is rotated. For instance, the rotatable element can define a curved inner surface disposed adjacent to the boom <NUM> which, when rotated, moves the rotatable element towards or away from the boom <NUM>. As the rotatable element moves away from the boom <NUM>, the one or more pins can be pulled from the stop location(s) <NUM>. A biasing element, such as a spring, can bias the rotatable element in a direction towards the boom <NUM> such that the one or more pins remain interfaced with the stop location(s) <NUM> when the rotatable element is in a locked position.

By way of non-limiting example, the tilt plate <NUM> may include a resilient plate extending from the housing <NUM>. In certain instances, the tilt plate <NUM> may be directly coupled to the housing <NUM>. In other instances, the tilt plate <NUM> may be coupled to the housing <NUM> through framework of the power tool <NUM>. The tilt plate <NUM> can define delimiting features (e.g., flange <NUM>) configured to prevent the operator from moving the boom <NUM> beyond a prescribed threshold. In certain instances, the boom <NUM> may be moveable to a stored position whereby the boom <NUM> is collapsed for storage. In certain instances, the stored position of the boom <NUM> may correspond with a location of one or more of the delimiting feature(s). For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the boom <NUM> may be pivoted towards the flange <NUM> and rest thereupon such that the boom <NUM> is parallel, or generally parallel, with the flange <NUM>. This configuration may be particularly useful for hanging the power tool <NUM> when storing. Alternatively, or in addition to the flange <NUM>, the power tool <NUM> may include a delimiting feature which permits the boom <NUM> to rotate to a forward stored position whereby the boom <NUM> is pivoted forward to a stored position. The forward stored position may be particularly suitable for storage when the power tool <NUM> is kept on the ground and space around the power tool <NUM> is limited.

When using the power tool <NUM>, there may be instances where the operator wants to rotate the handle from one orientation to another. <FIG> illustrate the power tool <NUM> with a handle <NUM> of the power tool <NUM> in two different orientations. In the embodiment depicted in <FIG>, the handle <NUM> is in a horizontal orientation. In the embodiment depicted in <FIG>, the handle <NUM> is in a vertical orientation. The horizontal and vertical orientations may be separated by an angular displacement of the handle <NUM>. The angular displacement in the depicted embodiment is approximately <NUM> degrees. In another embodiment, the angular displacement between the horizontal and vertical orientations may be less than <NUM> degrees. In yet another embodiment, the angular displacement between the horizontal and vertical orientations may be greater than <NUM> degrees. In an embodiment, the angular displacement between the horizontal and vertical orientations may be at least <NUM> degrees, such as at least <NUM> degrees, such as at least <NUM> degrees, such as at least <NUM> degrees, such as at least <NUM> degrees, such as at least <NUM> degrees, such as at least <NUM> degrees, such as at least <NUM> degrees. In another embodiment, the angular displacement between the horizontal and vertical orientations may be less than <NUM> degrees, such as no greater than <NUM> degrees, such as no greater than <NUM> degrees, such as no greater than <NUM> degrees, such as no greater than <NUM> degrees.

By way of non-limiting example, the operator may utilize the power tool <NUM> with the handle <NUM> in the horizontal orientation when standing behind the power tool <NUM>. In this regard, the operator can position both hands along the handle <NUM> while standing at a rearmost position. When performing operations in certain environments, like when edging a yard near a curb or fence, it may be desirable to stand next to the power tool <NUM>, i.e., displaced from the rearmost position to an at least partially lateral position. This may afford the operator more room and a better position when using the power tool <NUM>.

The handle <NUM> may be moveable relative to the boom <NUM> when moving between the horizontal and vertical orientations. Referring to <FIG>, the power tool <NUM> may include a switch <NUM> configured to selectively allow for reorientation of the handle <NUM> with respect to the boom <NUM>. The switch <NUM> may be operable between a locked state, whereby the handle <NUM> is relatively fixed with respect to the boom <NUM>, and an unlocked state, whereby the handle <NUM> can be moved with respect to the boom <NUM>. The switch <NUM> can include a depressible button, a pullable engagement, a rotatable dial, a pivotal latch, or another similar mechanism which selectively controls engagement between the handle <NUM> and the boom <NUM>. The switch <NUM> may be disposed on the handle <NUM>, allowing the operator to unlock and reorient the handle <NUM> without having to move from an operating position with respect thereto.

The handle <NUM> further includes a user interface <NUM> configured to control the drop wheel (e.g., the second wheel <NUM>) and a height-adjustment user interface <NUM> configured to control the height-adjustable wheel (e.g., the third wheel <NUM>). In the illustrated embodiment, the user interface <NUM> and height-adjustment user interface <NUM> include rotatable paddles. In other embodiments, the user interface <NUM> and height-adjustment user interface <NUM> can include other user engageable elements, such as one or more rotatable dials, depressible buttons, pullable engagements, pivotal latches, or the like.

A speed adjuster <NUM> may be disposed along the handle <NUM> and allow the operator to adjust a relative speed of the edging blade <NUM>. Alternatively, or in addition, the speed adjuster <NUM> may permit the operator to adjust the speed of the driven wheel in embodiments including such driven wheels. By way of non-limiting example, the speed adjuster <NUM> may include a slidable interface which permits the operator to control a relative speed of a motor coupled with the edging blade <NUM> or driven wheel.

One or more triggers <NUM> may be disposed along the handle <NUM> to prevent the power tool <NUM> from operating when the operator is not in a controlling position relative thereto. That is, for example, in certain instances the power tool <NUM> may not operate when the one or more triggers <NUM> are not depressed. In such a manner, the power tool <NUM> is safer for the operator.

Claim 1:
A power tool (<NUM>) comprising:
a drop wheel (<NUM>) moveable in a vertical direction about a pivot axis (<NUM>);
a spring (<NUM>) rotatably biasing the drop wheel about the pivot axis;
a stop mechanism (<NUM>) defining a plurality of stop positions (<NUM>) each corresponding with a different relative position of the drop wheel; and
a user interface (<NUM>) configured to selectively disengage the stop mechanism to permit the drop wheel to rotate about the pivot axis until the drop wheel contacts an underlying surface below the power tool, wherein the user interface is disposed at a handle (<NUM>) of the power tool;
wherein the stop mechanism comprises:
a rotatable element (<NUM>) coupled to the drop wheel, the rotatable element defining the plurality of stop positions; and
a linkage (<NUM>) having an engagement feature (<NUM>) configured to engage with at least one of the plurality of stop positions;
characterized in that
a cable (<NUM>) extends between and operatively coupling the linkage to the user interface.