Battery powered hydraulic tool

#1. Field of the Invention

#The present invention relates to battery powered hydraulic tools and, more particularly, to a tool which optimizes battery life and provides a quicker tool stroke.

#2. Brief Description of Prior Developments

#The foregoing aspects and other features of the present invention are explained in the following description, taken in connection with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

#FIG. 1 is an elevational side view of a battery operated hydraulic electrical connector crimping tool incorporating features of the present invention;

#FIG. 2 is a block diagram of components in the tool shown in FIG. 1;

#Referring to FIG. 1, there is shown an elevational side view of a tool 10 incorporating features of the present invention. Although the present invention will be described with reference to the exemplary embodiment shown in the drawings, it should be understood that the present invention can be embodied in many alternate forms of embodiments. In addition, any suitable size, shape or type of elements or materials could be used. Features of the present invention could also be used in other types of tools, such as a battery operated hydraulic cutting tool or any other suitable type of battery operated hydraulic tool.

#The tool 10 generally comprises a frame 12, a working head 14, a pump 16, a motor 18, a battery 20, a fluid reservoir 22 and a controller 24. In alternate embodiments, the tool could comprise additional or alternative components. Referring also to FIG. 2, the frame 12 forms a ram hydraulic drive conduit system 26. The working head 14 comprises a frame section 28 and a ram 30. The frame section 28 is stationarily connected to the front end of the frame 12, but could be rotatable. The ram 30 is movably connected to the section 28. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the section 28 and the ram 30 are adapted to removably receive conductor crimping dies (not shown) at a conductor receiving area 32.

#The ram 30 is adapted to move forward and backward as indicated by arrow 34. The ram hydraulic drive conduit system 26 is connected between the pump 16 and the rear end of the ram 30. Hydraulic fluid pumped by the pump 16 against the rear end of the ram 30 causes the ram 30 to move forward. The tool 10 preferably comprises a spring (not shown) which is adapted, as is known in the art, to return the ram 30 to its reward home position when hydraulic fluid pressure is released. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the ram 30 has a rear end diameter of about 2 in. However, in alternate embodiments, the rear end of the ram could have any suitable size or shape for functioning as a hydraulic fluid contact surface. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the ram 30 is adapted to move a distance 31 about 1.7 in. between its rear position and its forward position. However, in alternate embodiments, the distance 31 could be any suitable distance, such as 1.3-2 inches for example.