KNIFE WITH INTEGRAL SEALED POWER SOURCE

Abstract

A folding knife is provided with a power storage device that can be charged and recharged by a charge component that wirelessly receives power from a remote source. In some embodiments, the folding knife can have a device that consumes energy such as a light, a camera, a microphone, an audio speaker, etc. The power storage device and the charge component can be positioned in a scale of the handle where the substantially planar shapes of the scale, the power storage device, and the charge component are oriented in a common direction. In some embodiments, the cavities, recesses, and channels in the first scale that house these components and linking wires are strategically positioned to leave a reinforcing area that provides strength and stiffness to the handle. Various features are also described herein that improve safety of the charging system.

Claims

1. A handheld tool that wirelessly receives power from a remote source, comprising: a handle defining a first cavity and a second cavity; a first electrical system at least partially positioned in said first cavity, wherein said first electrical system comprises a first charge component for wirelessly receiving power and transferring power to a first power storage device, a first activation device operably connected to said first power storage device, and a first light operably connected to said first power storage device; a second electrical system at least partially positioned in said second cavity, wherein said second electrical system comprises a second charge component for wirelessly receiving power and transferring power to a second power storage device, a second activation device operably connected to said second power storage device, and a second light operably connected to said second power storage device; and wherein said first and second electrical systems are independent such that engaging said first activation device cycles only said first light through at least one mode of operation, and engaging said second activation device cycles only said second light through at least one mode of operation.

2. The handheld tool of claim 1, further comprising: a first control unit of said first electrical system and a second control unit of said second electrical system; and an orientation sensor operably connected to said first and second control units, wherein when said orientation sensor detects said first charge component positioned below said second charge component, then said first control unit allows said first charge component to transfer power to said first power storage device, and said second control unit prevents said second charge component from transferring power to said second power storage device.

3. The handheld tool of claim 1, wherein said first light emits light having a first color, and said second light emits light having a second color.

4. The handheld tool of claim 3, wherein said first color is white, and said second color is red.

5. The handheld tool of claim 1, further comprising: a first control unit of said first electrical system and a second control unit of said second electrical system; an aperture extending through said handle; and an indicator light positioned in said handle and configured to emit a light into said aperture that is visible from both sides of said handle, wherein said indicator light is operably connected to at least one of said first and second control units.

6. The handheld tool of claim 1, wherein said charge component of said first electrical system comprises windings extending in a first plane, said charge component of said second electrical system comprises windings extending in a second plane, and said first and second planes are substantially parallel.

7. The handheld tool of claim 1, wherein said at least one mode of operation includes activating said first light and activating said second light.

8. A handheld tool that wirelessly receives power from a remote source, comprising: a handle defining a first cavity and a second cavity; a first electrical system at least partially positioned in said first cavity, wherein said first electrical system comprises a first charge component for wirelessly receiving power, a first power storage device operably connected to said first charge component, a first activation device operably connected to said first power storage device and partially extending outside said handle, and a first light operably connected to said first power storage device; a second electrical system at least partially positioned in said second cavity, wherein said second electrical system comprises a second charge component for wirelessly receiving power, a second power storage device operably connected to said second charge component, a second activation device operably connected to said second power storage device and partially extending outside said handle, and a second light operably connected to said second power storage device; and wherein said first and second electrical systems are interconnected such that said first charge component is configured to transfer power to both of said first and second power storage devices, and said second charge component is configured to transfer power to both of said first and second power storage devices.

9. The handheld tool of claim 8, wherein engaging said first activation device cycles said first and second lights through at least one mode of operation, and engaging said second activation device cycles said first and second lights through at least one mode of operation.

10. The handheld tool of claim 8, further comprising: a first control unit of said first electrical system and a second control unit of said second electrical system; and an orientation sensor operably connected to said first and second control units, wherein when said orientation sensor detects said first charge component positioned below said second charge component, then said first control unit allows said first charge component to transfer power to said first power storage device, and said second control unit prevents said second charge component from transferring power to said second power storage device.

11. The handheld tool of claim 8, wherein said light of said first electrical system and said light of said second electrical system each emit light having the same color.

12. The handheld tool of claim 8, wherein said at least one mode of operation includes activating said first light, activating said second light, and activating both of said first and second lights.

13. The handheld tool of claim 8, wherein said first and second charge components are each one of an inductive coil, a resonator coil, and an RF antenna.

14. The handheld tool of claim 8, further comprising: a first scale and a second scale of said handle that define a channel positioned therebetween, and said first scale defines said first cavity and said second scale defines said second cavity; a blade pivotally interconnected to a forward end of said handle, wherein said blade has a cutting edge, said blade is movable between a first closed position where said cutting edge is positioned in said channel and a second extended position where said cutting edge is positioned outside of said channel; and wherein said first and second charge components and said first and second power storage devices each have a substantially planar shape, and wherein said substantially planar shapes of said first power storage device, said first charge component, and said first scale are oriented in a first plane, and wherein said substantially planar shapes of said second power storage device, said second charge component, and said second scale are oriented in a second plane.

15. A knife that wirelessly receives power from a remote source, comprising: a handle having an interior surface with a cavity extending into said interior surface; a blade connected to said handle; an electrical system at least partially positioned in said cavity, wherein said electrical system comprises a control unit, a charge component operably connected to said control unit and configured to wirelessly receive power, and a power storage device operably connected to said control unit and configured to receive power from said charge component; and a power consumption device that is operably connected to said electrical system, wherein said power consumption device is configured to receive power from said power storage device.

16. The knife of claim 15, wherein said blade is one of (i) rotatably connected to said handle and said knife is a folding knife or (ii) fixedly connected to said handle and said knife is a fixed blade knife.

17. The knife of claim 15, wherein said power consumption device is one of a light, a USB drive, or a clock.

18. The knife of claim 15, wherein said electrical system is hermetically sealed within said cavity of said handle.

19. The knife of claim 15, further comprising: an orientation sensor operably connected to said control unit, wherein said cavity is positioned closer to a first side surface of said handle than an opposing second side surface of said handle, wherein when said orientation sensor detects said first side surface positioned below said second side surface, then said control unit allows said charge component to transfer power to said power storage device.

20. The knife of claim 19, further comprising: a second electrical system at least partially positioned in a second cavity of said handle, wherein said second electrical system comprises a second control unit, a second charge component operably connected to said second control unit and configured to wirelessly receive power, and a second power storage device operably connected to said second control unit and configured to receive power from said second charge component, wherein when said orientation sensor detects said first side surface positioned below said second side surface, then said second control unit prevents said second charge component from transferring power to said second power storage device.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0059] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate embodiments of the disclosure and together with the general description of the disclosure given above and the detailed description of the drawings given below, serve to explain the principles of the disclosures.

[0060] FIG. 1B shows a front perspective view of a folding knife with a blade in a closed position according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0061] FIG. 1B shows a front perspective view of the folding knife in FIG. 1A with the blade in an open position according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0062] FIG. 2 shows a rear perspective view of the folding knife in FIG. 1A according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0063] FIG. 3A is a bottom plan view of a handle of the folding knife in FIG. 1A according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0064] FIG. 3B is a bottom plan view of a handle of another folding knife according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0065] FIG. 3C is a bottom plan view of a handle of a tool according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0066] FIG. 4A is a side elevation view of the first scale of a handle of a folding knife according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0067] FIG. 4B is a perspective view of a first scale of the handle in FIG. 4A according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0068] FIG. 5A is a side elevation view of a second scale of a handle of a folding knife according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0069] FIG. 5B is a perspective view of the second scale of the handle in FIG. 5A according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0070] FIG. 5C is a side elevation view of a scale of a handle of a folding knife according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0071] FIG. 6A is a side elevation view of electronic components for a folding knife according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0072] FIG. 6B is a side elevation view of the electronic components in FIG. 6A positioned in a first scale of folding knife according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0073] FIG. 6C is a side elevation view of electrical components positioned in the handle of a tool according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0074] FIG. 6D is a side elevation view of electronic components for a folding knife according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0075] FIG. 6E is a side elevation view of the electronic components in FIG. 6D positioned in the handle of a tool according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0076] FIG. 7A is a side elevation view of a folding knife and a charge base according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0077] FIG. 7B is a side elevation view of another folding knife and a charge base according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0078] FIG. 7C is a side elevation view of a further folding knife and a charge base according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0079] FIG. 7D is a side elevation view of another folding knife and a charge base according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0080] FIG. 7E is a side elevation view of a tool and a charge base according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0081] FIG. 8 is a flow chart for operation of a folding knife positioned on a charge base according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0082] FIG. 9A is a perspective view of an embodiment of a folding knife according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0083] FIG. 9B is a further perspective view of the folding knife in FIG. 9A according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0084] FIG. 9C is an exploded view of the folding knife in FIG. 9A according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0085] FIG. 10A is a front elevation view of the folding knife in FIG. 9A according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0086] FIG. 10B is a side elevation view of the folding knife in FIG. 9A according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0087] FIG. 10C is a top plan view of the folding knife in FIG. 9A according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0088] FIG. 10D is a bottom plan view of the folding knife in FIG. 9A according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0089] To provide further clarity to the detailed description provided herein in the associated drawings, the following list of components and associated numbering are provided as follows:

TABLE-US-00001 Component No. Component 2 Folding Knife 6 Blade 10 Spine 14 Thumb Traction Surface 18 Aperture 22 Handle 26 First Scale 30 Pivot Point 34 Lock Feature 38 Lanyard Aperture 42a, 42b, 42c, 42d Light 46 Activation Device 50 Tip 54 Cutting Edge 58 Choil 62 Clip 66 Second Scale 70 Channel 74 Channel Width 78a, 78b Storage Cavity 82 Reinforcement Area 86a, 86b, 86c Storage Channel 90 Charge Cavity 94 Lock Aperture 98 Pivot Recess 102a, 102b Light Recess 106a, 106b Light Channel 110a, 110b, 110c Activation Aperture 114a, 114b, 114c Activation Channel 118a, 118b Arm 122 Rib 126 Cutout Area 128 USB Drive 130 Back Portion 134, 134a, 134b, Power Storage Device 134c, 134d 138, 138a, 138b Control Unit 142, 142a, 142b Charge Component 146a, 146b, 146c Power Wire 150a, 150b Light Wire 154a, 154b, 154c Activation Wire 155a, 155b Electrical System 156 Indicator Light 157 Orientation Sensor 158 Charge Base 162 Charge Component 166 Protrusion 170 Wing 174 Wing Height 178 Knife Width 182 Position Sensor 186 Shield 190 First Offset 194 Second Offset 198 Position Knife 202 Receive Power 206 Determine Status 210 Cease Reception 214 Provide Indication 218 Permit Reception 222 Provide Indication 224 Folding Knife 226 Blade 228 Handle 230a, 230b Washer 232a, 232b Liner 234 Back Spacer 236 Ball Holder 238 Bearing Ball 240 Spring 244 Screw 246 Clip 250 Scale 252 Substrate 254a, 254b Electrode 256 Light Pipe 258a, 258b Battery 260a, 260b Button 262a, 262b Light 264 Scale 266 Handle Length 268 Blade Length 270 Handle Width

[0090] It should be understood that the drawings are not necessarily to scale, and various dimensions may be altered. In certain instances, details that are not necessary for an understanding of the disclosure or that render other details difficult to perceive may have been omitted. It should be understood, of course, that the disclosure is not necessarily limited to the particular embodiments illustrated herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0091] Although the following text sets forth a detailed description of numerous different embodiments, it should be understood that the legal scope of the description is defined by the words of the claims set forth at the end of this disclosure. The detailed description is to be construed as exemplary only and does not describe every possible embodiment since describing every possible embodiment would be impractical, if not impossible. Numerous alternative embodiments could be implemented, using either current technology or technology developed after the filing date of this patent, which would still fall within the scope of the claims.

[0092] As described in detail below, various embodiments of the present disclosure include novel folding knife designs and configurations, comprising a sealed power storage device and charge component and/or other features or devices. The present disclosure has significant benefits across a broad spectrum of endeavors.

[0093] Referring now to FIGS. 1A and 1B, front perspective views of a folding knife 2 in a closed position and an open position, respectively, are provided. The folding knife 2 generally has a handle 22 and a blade 6 that rotates relative to the handle 22 between the closed position and the open position. As shown, the blade 6 has a spine 10, a cutting edge 54, and a tip 50 positioned at a distal end of the blade 6 between the spine 10 and the cutting edge 54. The blade 6 can have further features such as a thumb traction surface 14 and a choil 58 that provide enhanced grip surfaces for a user. The blade 6 also has an aperture 18 that can assist a user in rotating the blade 6 about a fixed pivot pin 30 from the closed position to the open position. The blade 6 is typically metal, but can be any known material such as ceramic, fiberglass, or plastic.

[0094] The handle 22 has a first scale 26 and a second scale 66, which is shown in FIG. 2. The handle 22 also has a lock device 34 that can selectively lock the blade 6 in one or both of the open position and the closed position. The handle 22 further comprises a lanyard aperture 38 through both scales 26, 26 where a user can connect a lanyard or other similar feature to carry or secure the folding knife 2. The handle 22 and scales 26, 66 can be composed of various materials known in the art, for example, wood, metal, composite material, fiberglass, plastic, etc. The scales 26, 66 can be made of a material that promotes the wireless charging of the folding knife 2. In one embodiment, the scales 26, 66 are made from a plastic that allows an electromagnetic wave to reach electronic components within the scales 22, 66. In other embodiments, the scales 22, 66 can comprise a shield that prevents the free transmission of electromagnetic waves except for the electronic components related to the wireless transmission of electrical energy.

[0095] In one embodiment, a first light 42a and a second light 42b are positioned at a fore end of the handle 22, and an activation device 46 such as a button can activate the lights 42a, 42b. The lights 42a, 42b illuminate the area in front of the folding knife 2 to assist with a cutting or thrusting action of the blade 6. Pressing the activation device 46 can cause the lights 42a, 42b to illuminate in different ways and in different combinations. For instance, pressing the activation device 46 can cycle the lights 42a, 42b through multiple modes of operation, which can include activating only one light 42a, 42b, activating both lights 42a, 42b, activating one or both lights 42a, 42b with different colors, pulsing one or both lights 42a, 42b to produce a strobe effect, activating one or both lights 42a, 42b with a brighter or less bright intensity, etc. In addition, holding the activation device 46 for a predetermined amount of time (e.g., 1 s, 2 s, 3 s, etc.) can cause the lights 42a, 42b to activate in a yet a further mode or modes of operation.

[0096] It will be appreciated that while two lights 42a, 42b are depicted, embodiments of the present disclosure encompass a greater or fewer number of lights 42a, 42b or other devices. In addition, one light 42a can be positioned on one scale and the other light 42b can be position on the other scale. One light 42a can emit, for example, a red light, and one light 42b can emit, for example, a white light. Moreover, embodiments of the present disclosure encompass other devices such as a light, a locking mechanism, an opening mechanism, a microphone, an audio speaker, a GPS beacon or device, a fitness tracker, a heart monitor, a receiver, a transmitter, a transceiver, a pH sensor, a position sensor, a hand warmer, a vibrating mechanism, a camera or video recorder, a communication device, a clock, a data storage device with an interface such as USB, etc. In embodiments that comprise a USB interface, the data storage device can be stored in one of the cavities defined by the handle, and a USB receptable and/or plug can be positioned at a surface of the handle. Moreover, embodiments of the present disclosure can include rubber covers that protect the receptable and/or plug to preserve the air and/or fluid seal within the handle. It will be further appreciated that the activation device 46 can be a button, a switch, a slider switch that moves between more than two positions, a microphone that receives voice commands, etc.

[0097] Referring now to FIG. 2, a rear perspective view of the folding knife 2 is provided. Specifically, the second scale 66 of the handle 22 is shown, and a clip 62 is provided that can secure the folding knife 2 in a pocket, a belt, or other location. FIG. 2 also shows the reverse side of the blade 6, the lock device 34, and the lanyard aperture 38.

[0098] Referring now to FIG. 3A, a bottom plan view of the handle 22 of the folding knife is provided. The first scale 26 and the second scale 66 define a channel 70 that receives the blade when the blade is in the closed position. In other words, the cutting edge of the blade is positioned in the channel 70 when the blade is in the closed position, and the cutting edge of the blade is position outside of the channel 70 when the blade is in the open position. In this view, the channel 70 has a channel width 74. The blade, the first scale 26, and the second scale 66 have substantially planar shapes to preserve the ergonomics and functionality of the handle 22 and the folding knife 2. Thus, the channel width 74 can be on the order of the thickness of one or both of the first scale 26 and the second scale 66 in some embodiments.

[0099] Referring now to FIG. 3B, a bottom plan view of the handle 22 of a knife or tool is provided. Each scale 26, 66 of the handle 22 has a complete electrical system including at least one light 42b, 42c at a forward end of the scale 26, 66. In addition, each scale 26, 66 has a power storage device, control unit, and charge component, an activation device 46a, 46b, etc. In some embodiments, the electrical system in each scale 26, 66 can be completely isolated and independent from each other. In other embodiments, the electrical system in each scale 26, 66 are connected and operate together for redundancy. Thus, one charge component can charge all power storage devices of all electrical systems in the handle 22, and a given power storage device can power all lights 42b, 42c.

[0100] As noted above, each scale 26, 66 has an activation device 46a, 46b, and the activation devices 46a, 46b can operate the lights 42b, 42c in a number of ways. For example, in one embodiment, the activation device 46a on the first scale 26 controls the light 42b or plurality of lights 42b on the first scale 26. A user can engage the activation device 46a to cycle through a series of modes of operation for the light 42b or plurality of lights 42b such as: turning on one light 42b, turning on multiple lights 42b, flashing one or more lights 42b, turning off one or more lights 42b, etc. A user can engage the other activation device 46b to cycle through a similar series of modes of operation for the other light 42c or plurality of lights 42c.

[0101] In other embodiments, having each side of the knife or tool with lights and activation devices provides flexibility for a user when, for example, a clip or other retaining feature is positioned across one of the scales 26, 66 and possibly obscuring a light and/or activation device. In these embodiments, the electrical systems are connected and operate with each other, and each activation device 46a, 46b can control both lights 42b, 42c or pluralities of lights 42b, 42c. Engaging one of the activation devices 46a, 46b can cycle through modes of operation such as: turning on one light 42b, 42c, turning on both lights 42b, 42c, turning off one light 42b, 42c, turning off both lights 42b, 42c, etc.

[0102] Regardless of whether the multiple electrical systems are separate or connected, a user can engage each activation device 46a, 46b in different ways such as pressing the activation device 46a, 46b, double-clicking the activation device 46a, 46b, pressing and holding the activation device 46a, 46b, etc. These different ways of engaging the activation device 46a, 46b can be used to manipulate the lights 42a, 42b in different ways. For example, pressing one activation device 46a will cycle through modes of operation for one light 42b or set of lights 42b, and double-clicking the same activation device 46a will cycle through modes of operation for another light 42c or set of lights 42c. Alternatively or in addition, double-clicking the same activation device 46a will cycle through a second set of modes of operation for one light 42b or set of lights 42b. Pressing the activation device 46a, 46b can mean pressing the activation device 46a, 46b only once in a predetermined time period, double-clicking can mean pressing an activation device 46a, 46b multiple times within the predetermined time period, and holding the activation device 46a, 46b can mean pressing and holding the activation device 46a, 46b for longer than the predetermined time period.

[0103] The lights 42b, 42c can also have different colors and can encompass any electromagnetic radiation-emitting device. For instance, in one embodiment, one light 42b or set of lights 42b emits white light and the other light 42c or set of lights 42c emits red light, and one activation device 46a is operably connected to only one light 42b or set of lights 42b and another activation device 46b is operably connected to only the other light 42c or set of lights 42c. In a further embodiment, both lights 42b, 42c or sets of lights 42b, 42c are one color, such as white, and each activation device 46a, 46c is operably connected to all lights 42b, 42c for redundancy. Further still, embodiments can incorporate infrared lights and/or any device that emits electromagnetic radiation such as lasers. It will be appreciated that while the lights 42b, 42c are depicted at a forward end of the handle 22, the lights 42b, 42c can be located at any positioned on the handle 22 can include a plurality of lights that form a screen on an outer surface of the handle 22.

[0104] Referring now to FIG. 3C, a bottom plan view of a handle 22 of a knife with a blade 6 is provided. In this embodiment, the handle 22 does not have a channel to receive a rotating blade. Instead, the handle 22 can be made from a solid material or even from multiple scales joined together without a channel. The handle 22 in FIG. 3C has a light 42b, 42c or sets of lights 42b, 42c on each side of the blade 6, and the lights 42b, 42c are operable with the activation devices 46a, 46b as described above with respect to FIG. 3B. While knives are depicted in the figures, embodiments of the present disclosure can apply to any tool.

[0105] Referring now to FIGS. 4A and 4B, a side elevation view and a perspective view of an inner surface of the first scale 26 are provided, respectively. A power storage device, a charge component, an activation device, and a device such as a light are arranged in the first scale 26. Corresponding cavities, recesses, and channels extend into the inner surface of the first scale 26 to provide space for these components but are also strategically chosen to leave a remaining reinforcement area 82 that provides strength and stiffness to the first scale 26 and the folding knife.

[0106] Two storage cavities 78a, 78b extend into the first scale 26 to receive power storage devices, which can be batteries with planar shapes. Instead of a single battery with a thickness that is too large for the first scale 26, two or more separate batteries can each have a smaller thickness that allows for the batteries to be positioned in the first scale 26 while maintaining the planar ergonomics of the scale 26 and the folding knife. It will be appreciated that the power storage device can be a capacitor or other storage devices, and in addition, the folding knife can have a single storage cavity 78, more than two storage cavities 78, or even a combined cavity in various embodiments. FIG. 4B shows arms 118a, 118b that at least partially extend over an area of the respective storage cavities 78a, 78b. The arms 118a, 118b help retain the batteries inserted into the cavities 78a, 78b and can deflect as the batteries are positioned in place in the cavities 78a, 78b. When a liner, a backspacer, a second scale or other component is secured over the inner surface of the first scale 26, the arms 118a, 118b can effectively lock the power storage devices in the cavities 78a, 78b. Moreover, the arms 118a, 118b can have electric contacts to transfer power between the power storage devices and other components within the handle.

[0107] Next, a control cavity 90 extends into the inner surface of the first scale 26 to receive a control unit such as a circuit board as well as a charge component such as an inductive coil, a resonator coil, or an RF antenna. In some embodiments, the storage cavity 78 and the control cavity 90 can be combined into a single cavity. Also shown in FIG. 4A are three activation apertures 110a, 110b, 110c that extend through the first scale 26. These apertures 110a, 110b, 110c allow a portion of the activation device to extend between the outer and inner surfaces of the first scale 26 to send a signal to other components within the folding knife. The three apertures 110a, 110b, 110c are arrayed below the activation device so that if the activation device is pressed asymmetrically, then at least one part of the device will register the pressing action and transmit a signal through one of the apertures 110a, 110b, 110c. Two recesses 102a, 102b are positioned at the fore end of the first scale 26, and these recesses 102a, 102b receive the two lights shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B.

[0108] Several other recesses and apertures are shown in FIG. 4A. A blade recess 98 receives part of the blade and is centered about the pivot point 30 of the blade. A lock aperture 94 extends through the first scale 26 to receive components of the lock device. The lanyard aperture 38 is also depicted.

[0109] Several channels extend into the inner surface of the first scale 26 to link the various components of the folding knife together, and the channels are strategically located to leave a remaining reinforcement area 82 that provides strength and stiffness to the first scale 26 and the folding knife. A first storage channel 86a extends between the control cavity 90 to the first storage cavity 78a, a second storage channel 86b extends between the two storage cavities 78a, 78b, and a third storage channel 86c extends from the second storage cavity 78b back to the control cavity 90. These channels 86a, 86b, 86c can route wires, electric contacts, or otherwise provide electrical communication between the power storage devices and the control unit and/or charge component.

[0110] Three activation channels 114a, 114b, 114c extends from respective activation apertures 110a, 110b, 110c to the control cavity 90 to route wires, electric contacts, or otherwise provide electrical communication between the activation device and the control unit and/or charge component. Two device or light channels 106a, 106b extend from respective recesses 102a, 102b to the control cavity 90 to route wires, electric contacts, or otherwise provide electrical communication between a device such as a light and the control unit and/or charge component.

[0111] A reinforcement area 82 provides strength and stiffness to the scale 26 and the handle of the folding knife. The first light channel 106a extends between the lock aperture 94 and a top edge of the inner surface to leave a remaining reinforcement area 82 on either side of the first light channel 106a. Two activation channels 114a, 114b merge together, but a remaining reinforcement area 82 is positioned between the merged channels 114a, 114b and the first light channel 106a. Likewise, the second light channel 106b and the third activation channel 114c merge together but leave a remaining reinforcement area 82 on either side of the merged channel. These reinforcement areas 82 provide stiffness and strength to the first scale 26 much like a reinforcing rib as described below with respect to the second scale.

[0112] Referring now to FIGS. 5A and 5B, a side elevation view and a perspective view of an inner surface of the second scale 66 are provided, respectively. Like the first scale, the second scale 66 also has a lanyard aperture 38 and a recess 98 at the fore end where the blade is located. The second scale 66 also has a back portion 130 that establishes the width of the channel between the scales in this embodiment. Also shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B are the system of cutout areas 126 and ribs 122. The cutout areas 126 remove weight and mass from the second scale 66 and the remaining ribs 122 provide stiffness and strength to the second scale 66. In general terms, the cutout areas 126 can correspond to the cavities, recesses, and channels in the first scale, and the ribs 122 can correspond to the reinforcement area of the first scale. However, the cutout areas 126 and ribs 122 in the second scale 66 are more optimized to maximize the cutout areas 126 and minimize the area of the ribs 122 since the components and wires are not housed in the second scale 66 in this embodiment. In other words, the cavities, recesses, and channels in the first scale must accommodate the sizes and shapes of the various components before optimizing to reduce mass and maintain strength and stiffness. This difference between the first scale and the second scale can be reflecting by stating that the combined area of the cutouts areas 126 is greater than the combined area of the cavities, recesses, and channels. Conversely, the combined area of the ribs 122 is smaller than the reinforcement areas in the first scale.

[0113] In some embodiments, the second scale 66 can include one or more power storage devices to augment the power supply devices in the first scale. In one exemplary embodiment, the second scale 66 has one or more cavities that receive one or more power storage devices, such as batteries or capacitors. A wire can extend from the power storage devices in the second scale 66 to the electrical components in the first scale to supply and receive power from the electrical components. For instance, the wire can extend to the power storage devices in the first scale such that all power storage devices of the folding knife collectively work together to store power from the charge component. In some embodiments, the power storage devices in the second scale 66 can connect to the control unit or the charge component to serve as a back-up power reserve. In addition, in some embodiments, a backspacer, liner, electrical contacts, etc. operably connect the power supply devices in the second scale 66 to electrical components in the first scale. In various embodiments, the second scale 66 itself is a power storage device to completely utilize the mass and space of the second scale 66 for storing power. The power storage device can have the pivot recess 98, the back portion 130, and the lanyard aperture 38 to function as the second scale 66.

[0114] Referring now to FIG. 5C, a side elevation view of an inner surface of a scale 66 is provided. Specifically, the scale 66 is a second scale 66 that complements a first scale of a handheld tool. Like the embodiment shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, the scale 66 in FIG. 5C has a pivot point 30, a plurality of ribs 122, and a plurality of cutout areas 126. In addition, one of the cutout areas 126 receives a universal serial bus (USB) drive, which comprises a receptacle for selectively interconnecting to another device and comprises a data storage device for storing information. The receptacle can move between positions where, in a first position, the receptacle is retracted within a volume defined by the scale 66. In a second position, at least a portion of the receptacle extends beyond this volume to selectively interconnect with another device to send and receive data. It will be appreciated that other devices can be received in the cutout areas 126 as described elsewhere herein.

[0115] Referring now to FIGS. 6A and 6B, side elevation views of the various components of the folding knife are provided. As shown in FIG. 6A, the folding knife has a control unit 138, which is a circuit board in this embodiment, and a charge component 142, which is an inductor coil in this embodiment. Storage wires 146a, 146b, 146c link the power storage devices 134a, 134b to the control unit 138 and charge component 142. When the folding knife is in the presence of another charge component, power can be wirelessly transmitted to the charge component 142, which charges and recharges the power storage devices 134a, 134b. In this embodiment, the power storage devices 134a, 134b are CR1616 batteries that have a thickness of 1.6 mm and a diameter in the planar direction of 10 mm. Therefore, in some embodiments, the ratio of the thickness to the maximum width in the planar direction can be between eight and twelve. In various embodiments, the ratio is greater than eight. Activation wires 154a, 154b, 154c link the activation device 46 to the control unit 138, and light wires 150a, 150b link the lights 42a, 42b to the control unit 138. In some embodiments, a charge wire can connect to electrical components in the first scale to power the power storage devices 134a, 134b from an external power source. A socket at an outer surface of the first scale can receive a plug to connect the charge wire to the external power source, and a rubber stop can be positioned in the socket when the charge wire is not in use to prevent water or other external elements from penetrating the interior of the first scale.

[0116] FIG. 6B shows the various component positioned in the cavities, recesses, and channels of the first scale 26 of the folding knife. The control unit 138, the charge component 142, and the power storage devices 134a, 134b can be sealed from external elements individually or in a single enclosed volume. The components are sealed to prevent fluid, whether gas or liquid, from moving between the enclosed volume and outside of the enclosed volume. Sealants, glues, epoxies, and other similar materials can provide the desired seal.

[0117] Referring now to FIG. 6C, a further embodiment of electrical components with two electrical systems 155a, 155b is provided. Each electrical system 155a, 155b is the same or similar to other systems described herein, including the system described in FIGS. 6A and 6B. The two electrical systems 155a, 155b are laid open in a common plane in FIG. 6C, but it will be appreciated that the electrical systems 155a, 155b positioned in the handle of a tool would be generally oriented on two planes that are parallel to each other with one electrical system 155a in one plane and the other electrical system 155b in the other plane.

[0118] As shown, an indicator light 156 and an orientation sensor 157 are each operably connected to the control unit for each electrical system 155a, 155b. The indicator light 156 can emit a light depending on the status of various aspects of the tool such as the quantity or amount of charge of one or more of the power storage devices. The indicator light 156 can be a single light in some embodiments that emits light into an aperture that extends through the handle such as the lanyard aperture. Thus, light from the indicator light 156 is visible from both sides of the handle.

[0119] In one embodiment, the indicator light 156 is a dimmer light where the intensity of the light corresponds to the amount of charge in the one or more power storage devices. A brighter light corresponds to more charge. In some embodiments, the indicator light 156 will emit a light with a first intensity that corresponds to a first quantity of charge of the power storage device. Then, the indicator light 156 will emit the light with a lesser second intensity that corresponds to a lesser second quantity of charge of the power storage device. In various embodiments, the indicator light 156 will emit a light with a first color, such as green, that corresponds to a first quantity of charge of the power storage device. Then, the indicator light 156 will emit the light or another light with a second color, such as red, that corresponds to a lesser second quantity of charge of the power storage device. In addition, the indicator light 156 does not need to be constantly emitting light. In embodiment, an activation device on each side of the handle can be pressed simultaneously, and one or both control units send a signal and power to the indicator light 156 to emit a light that corresponds to the amount of charge in the power storage devices.

[0120] Next, the orientation sensor 157 can detect an orientation of the handle to determine which charge component is downward or below the other charge component and closer to a charge base. The orientation sensor 157 can be one or more accelerometers. When the orientation sensor 157 detects the charge component of the first electrical system 155a is below the charge component of the second electrical system 155b, the orientation sensor 157 can provide a signal to one or both of the control units. Based on the signal, the control unit of the first electrical system can allow the respective charge component to charge the respective power storage device, and/or the control unit of the second electrical system can prevent the respective charge component from charging the respective power storage device. One skilled in the art will appreciate various control units and systems for managing the charging of power storage devices, including those found in U.S. Pat. Nos. 8,022,674; 6,805,090; and 8,305,044, the entire disclosures of which are hereby expressly incorporated by reference in their entireties.

[0121] Referring now to FIGS. 6D and 6E, further views of electronic components and a folding knife are provided, respectively. In FIG. 6D, one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a power storage device 134, a control unit 138, and wires 146a, 146b that connect the power storage device 134 and the control unit 138. Moreover, a charge component 142 that receives energy is operably connected to the control unit 138. As described elsewhere herein, the charge component 142 can receive power in a wireless manner, which the control unit 138 can route to the power storage device 134 to charge the power storage device 134.

[0122] FIG. 6E shows the electronic components positioned in the scale 26 of a folding knife with a blade 6. The electronic components can be positioned in a cavity of the scale 26 and retained by, for example, a deflectable arm 118. The energy stored in the power storage device 134 can be used to power any number of devices. The energy can power any combination of lights, data storage devices, clocks, or any other devices or components described herein. In addition, the present disclosure encompasses embodiments and tools other than a folding knife.

[0123] The electronic components shown in FIGS. 6D and 6E are not physically connected to an activation device such as a button. Instead, a feature of the device in FIGS. 6D and 6E such as a light can be activated in any number of alternative ways. For example, the device may comprise an accelerometer that activates the light when the device is in a particular orientation or range of orientations. Further still, a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver or other similar receiver can relay the geographic position of the device to the control unit 138, which can then activate or deactivate the light or other feature when the device is within a geographic area, outside of a geographic area, traveling above or below a threshold speed, etc. In some embodiments, an activation device such as a button or light sensor is wirelessly connected to the control unit 138. Thus, when the button is depressed or the light sensor detects ambient light conditions rising above or falling below a threshold in terms of lumens, the light or other feature is activated or deactivated. This wireless connection also allows the cavity that receives the electronic components such as the power storage device 134, the control unit 138, and the charge component 142 to be hermetically sealed with no wires or structure extending to an outer surface of the scale 26 or device.

[0124] While embodiments of the present disclosure depict a charge component 142 that can wirelessly receive power via electric induction, it will be appreciated that the electronic components can receive power in other ways. In some embodiments, a self-winding rotor mechanism can provide power to the power storage device 134 and the control unit 138 rather than, or in addition to, the charge component 142. A rotating pendulum turns a pinion which is connected to a generator that produces electricity that is stored in the power storage device 134.

[0125] Referring now to FIGS. 7A-7D, side elevation views of the folding knife 2 positioned on a charge base 158 are provided. The folding knife 2 and/or charge base 158 can have features that improve the performance of the wireless charging and also improve safety when using the charge base 158. In FIG. 7A, the first charge component 142 of the handle 22 of the folding knife and the second charge component 162 of the charge base 158 are depicted, and a protrusion 166 extending from the charge base 158 into the handle 22 aligns the charge components 142, 162. The protrusion 166 can extend into, for instance, the lanyard aperture of the handle 22 to align the charge components 142, 162. It will be appreciated that the various features depicted in FIGS. 7A-7D are exemplary, and embodiments of the present disclosure include, for instance, a charge base 158 that does not have safety features.

[0126] To promote the safety of the user, it can be desirable to keep the blade 6 in the closed position in the handle 22 during charging. If the folding knife 2 is left with the blade 6 open, a user may forget that the blade 6 is open, which can lead to an injury. Moreover, if the folding knife 2 is left with the blade 6 open, a third party such as a child may try to grasp the folding knife 2 without appreciating the cutting edge of the blade 6, which can lead to an injury. A wing 170 can extend upward from the charge base 158 proximate to the fore end of the handle 22. The height 174 of the wing 170 can be greater than the width 178 of the handle 22 in some embodiments. Thus, when the blade 6 is in the open position, the wing 170 contacts the blade 6 and prevents the first charge component 142 from being positioned close enough to second charge component 162 to wirelessly receive power. Therefore, the user must first position the blade 6 in the closed position before the second charge component 162 can wirelessly transmit power to the first charge component 142. In further embodiments, the charge base 158 can define a cutout area that corresponds to the area of the folding knife 2 with the blade 6 in the closed position. Therefore, unless the blade 6 is closed, then the folding knife 2 cannot be properly positioned in the cutout area in the charge base 158 and wireless power transmission cannot begin.

[0127] In FIG. 7B, the second charge component 162 can have a larger cross sectional area than the first charge component 142 such that a user does not need to precisely locate the folding knife on the charge base 158 to initiate the charging process. Also shown in FIG. 7B is a position sensor 182 that can detect the position of the blade 6, and more specifically, when the blade 6 is in the closed position within the handle 22 or when the blade 6 is positioned outside of the handle 22. A shield 186 can be positioned between the first charge component 142 and the position sensor 182 to prevent electromagnetic fields from affecting either of the first charge component 142 or the position sensor 182. The position sensor 182 can serve a variety of functions. For instance, the position sensor 182 can be electrically connected to the control unit, and if the blade 6 is not positioned in the handle 22, then the control unit does not transmit power from the first charge component 142 to the power storage devices. The position sensor 182 can be located in a variety of positions in the folding knife 2 and can serve a variety of functions. For instance, the position sensor 182 can detect when the blade 6 can moved from the closed position to the open position, and then the position sensor 182 can send a signal to the control unit, which then activates, for instance, a light.

[0128] In FIG. 7C, the shield 186 can extend around one or more sides of the first charge component 142 to both insulate the first charge component 142 from external electromagnetic fields and also protect external components from the wireless transmission of power from the second charge component 162 to the first charge component 142. In addition, the shield 186 in this embodiment can prevent the wireless transmission of power until the charge components 142, 162 are precisely aligned over each other, which ensures a more efficient transmission of power.

[0129] In FIG. 7D, the first charge component 142 is offset 190 from the outer surface of the first scale and offset 194 from the outer surface of the second scale. Some wireless protocols for the transmission of power have maximum ranges between charge components 142, 162. Thus, in some embodiments, the offsets 190, 194 are less than 5 cm in some embodiments. It will be appreciated that the offsets 190, 194 can be less than the maximum range of a protocol (e.g., 3 cm, etc.). Moreover, it can be advantageous to have the folding knife charge when one scale is positioned against the charge base 158 but not when the other scale is positioned against the charge base 158. Therefore, in some embodiments, the first offset 190 is greater than 4 cm and the second offset 194 is less than 5 cm, or vice versa, when the maximum range of the wireless protocol is 4 cm.

[0130] Referring now to FIG. 7E, a further embodiment of a handle 22 of a tool is provided. Like the handle 22 depicted in FIG. 3B, this handle 22 has lights on either side of the handle 22. FIG. 7E shows the handle 22 positioned over a charge base 158 that has a charge component 162. The handle 22 itself has charge components 142a, 142b on opposing sides of the handle 22, an indicator light 156, and an orientation sensor 157. As described above, the indicator light 156 can provide a visual indication of the status of an aspect of the handle 22 or tool such as the amount of charge in one or more power storage devices positioned within the handle 22.

[0131] As also described above, the orientation sensor 157 can help determine the orientation of the handle 22 and specifically which charge component 142a, 142b is positioned beneath the other. Accordingly, the orientation sensor 157 helps determine which charge component 142a, 142b is closer to the charge component 162 of the charge base 158 for the most efficient and effective charging of the power storage devices in the handle 22. A control unit in the handle can then allow the charge component 142a, 142b positioned closer to the charge component 162 of the charge base 158 to charge the one or more power storage devices, even power storage devices positioned on an opposing side of the handle 22 in a different electrical system. Simultaneously or in the alternative, the control unit can prevent the charge component 142a, 142b positioned above the other charge component, i.e., further away from the charge base 158, from charging power storage devices.

[0132] It will be appreciated that the present disclosure encompasses embodiments not specifically depicted in the various figures. For instance, in some embodiments, the handle 22 does not include an orientation sensor 157, and both charge components 142a, 142b are allowed to receive power from the charge component 162 of the charge base 158, to the extent possible. Similarly, in some embodiments, a material is positioned between charge components 142a, 142b to eliminate interference between charge components 142a, 142b while one charge components 142a, 142b is receiving power from the charge component 162 of the charge base 158. The material can form a partial Faraday cage between the charge components 142a, 142b. The charge components 142a, 142a and charge component 162 of the charge base 158 can conform to the Qi standard or any other standard or protocol for the wireless transfer of power.

[0133] Referring now to FIG. 8, a flowchart for operation of the charging system is provided. First, the folding knife is positioned 198 over or on the charge base. Then, the folding knife can initially 202 receive some power to determine 206, for example by the position sensor, if the blade is safely in the closed position in the handle. In some embodiments, the folding knife can rely on the power storage device to power the position sensor and control unit. If the blade is open, then the folding knife, specifically a control unit, can cease 210 charging the power storage device in the folding knife. In various embodiments, an electronic component of the folding knife sends a signal to the charge base such that the charge base prevents the transmission of power to the folding knife. Then, the folding knife can provide 214 a negative indication of charging. In some embodiments, one of the lights emits a red or orange light, indicating caution that the blade is in the open position. If the blade is closed, then the folding knife can continue 218 charging the power storage device in the folding knife. Moreover, the folding knife can provide 222 a positive indication of charging. In various embodiments, one of the lights emits a green light, indicating that the blade is safely in the closed position. While various embodiments are described where charging occurs only when the blade is in a closed position, it will be appreciated that the present disclosure encompasses embodiments where charging occurs when the blade is in any position.

[0134] Referring now to FIGS. 9A and 9B, perspective views of a folding knife 224 with a blade 226 and a handle 228 are provided. FIG. 9C shows an exploded view of the components of the folding knife 224 shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B. The folding knife 224 has a blade 226 with a proximal end rotatably connected to scales 250, 264 of a handle. The blade 226 can be connected by a shaft, and a washer 230a, 230b around the shaft on either side of the blade 226 and a liner 232a, 232b around the shaft on either side of the blade 226 space the blade 226 apart from the scales 250, 264. Also disposed between the scales 250, 264 of the handle is a back spacer 234. An assembly of a ball holder 236, a ball bearing 238, and a spring 240 are operably connected to the back spacer 234 and the blade 226 to cause the blade 226 to open in a spring-assisted manner. The spring 240 can be any bias member with a linear and/or non-linear response. Also shown in FIG. 9C is a light pipe 256 positioned between the two scales 250, 264 to allow light to emit into a lanyard aperture as described elsewhere herein.

[0135] Next, FIG. 9C shows a system that powers lights 262a, 262b that are positioned in respective scales 250, 264. An electrode and power coil 254a, 254b are positioned in respective scales 250, 264 where the coils 254a, 254b can power respective batteries 258a, 258b as described herein. Between batteries 258a, 258b is a substrate 252 that can communicate a signal from a user pressing a button 260a, 260b on either side of the folding knife 224. Via the substrate 252, a signal can be relayed and, with a control device, cause the lights 262a, 262b to emit electromagnetic radiation as described herein. Finally, the folding knife 224 can be assembled with screws 244, and a clip 246 can be attached to one of the scales 250, 264.

[0136] Now referring to FIGS. 10A-10D, various views of the folding knife 224 shown in FIGS. 9A-9C are provided. FIG. 10A is a front elevation view, FIG. 10B is a side elevation view, FIG. 10C is a top plan view, and FIG. 10D is a bottom plan view of the folding knife 224. FIG. 10A shows various dimensions of the folding knife 224. Specifically, the handle length 266 is between approximately 4 and 5 inches (101.6 mm and 127 mm) in some embodiments. In various embodiments, the handle length 266 is approximately 4.68 inches (118.86 mm). The blade length 268 is between approximately 3 and 4 inches (76.2 mm and 101.6 mm) in some embodiments. In various embodiments, the blade length 268 is approximately 3.406 inches (86.513 mm). A handle width 270 in FIG. 10C is between approximately 0.5 and 1.5 inches (12.7 mm and 25.4 mm) in some embodiments. In various embodiments, the handle width 270 is approximately 0.719 inches (18.252 mm).

[0137] Although the figures depict a folding knife, it will be appreciated that embodiments of the present disclosure encompass a variety of tools and tool handles. For instance, embodiments of the present disclosure encompass a fixed blade knife with a handle that can incorporate various aspects of the present disclosure including the sealed, planar power storage device and charge component, the arrangement of channels and reinforcement area, and the charge base. Thus, embodiments of the present disclosure encompass fixed blade knives, multi-tools, saws, drills, and any other tool with a handle that can incur the benefits of aspects described herein.

[0138] The foregoing description of the present disclosure has been presented for illustration and description purposes. However, the description is not intended to limit the disclosure to only the forms disclosed herein. In the foregoing Detailed Description for example, various features of the disclosure are grouped together in one or more embodiments for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. This method of disclosure is not to be interpreted as reflecting a disclosure that the claims require more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive aspects lie in less than all features of a single foregoing disclosed embodiment. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into this Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as a separate preferred embodiment of the disclosure.

[0139] Consequently, variations and modifications commensurate with the above teachings and skill and knowledge of the relevant art are within the scope of the present disclosure. The embodiments described herein above are further intended to explain best modes of practicing the disclosure and to enable others skilled in the art to utilize the disclosure in such a manner, or include other embodiments with various modifications as required by the particular application(s) or use(s) of the present disclosure. Thus, it is intended that the claims be construed to include alternative embodiments to the extent permitted by the prior art.

[0140] Additionally, various features/components of one embodiment may be combined with features/components of another embodiment. For example, features/components of one figure can be combined with features/components of another figure or features/ components of multiple figures. To avoid repetition, every different combination of features has not been described herein, but the different combinations are within the scope of this disclosure. Additionally, if details (including angles, dimensions, etc.) about a feature or component are described with one embodiment or one figure, then those details can apply to similar features of components in other embodiments or other figures.

[0141] While various embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail, it is apparent that modifications and alterations of those embodiments will occur to those skilled in the art. However, it is to be expressly understood that such modifications and alterations are within the scope and spirit of the present invention, as set forth in the following claims. Further, the invention(s) described herein is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. It is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.