Control and protection methodologies for a motor control module

Abstract

A motor control module designed to control operation of a plurality of different motors in a plurality of different tools a power tool uses an electronic clutch in the module in conjunction with a mechanical clutch in the tool to protect the tool against an overload event. The module is adapted to implement methods to provide aural and/or tactile feedback to a tool user as a warning of an impending or current fault condition in the tool. The module can prevent power from inadvertently turning on either after an overload event has cleared with the tool plugged in and its power switch on, or after plugging in the tool within the power switch on. The control module is adapted to provide torque control for the power tool, to estimate tool motor temperature and to inform a tool user when a servicing need in the tool is required.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.