FI20245609A1

FI20245609A1 - Dust removal control for power tools

Info

Publication number: FI20245609A1
Application number: FI20245609A
Authority: FI
Inventors: Tomas Södergård
Original assignee: Mirka Ltd
Priority date: 2024-05-14
Filing date: 2024-05-14
Publication date: 2025-11-15
Also published as: WO2025238293A1

Abstract

There is provided remote-control of a dust extractor. A method comprises determining (302), at a power tool, at least one motion of the power tool, determining (304), at the power tool, based on the determined at least one motion, a control of a dust extractor based on at least one of the following: at least one further motion of the power tool; or a user input on the user interface of the power tool; transmitting (304), by the power tool over a data connection to the dust extractor, a control signal for causing the determined control of the dust extractor by the power tool.

Description

CONTROLLING DUST EXTRACTOR FOR POWER TOOL

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to controlling a dust extractor for a power tool

BACKGROUND

[0002] This section is intended to provide a background or context to the invention that is recited in the claims. The description herein may include concepts that could — be pursued, but are not necessarily ones that have been previously conceived or pursued. Therefore, unless otherwise indicated herein, what is described in this section is not prior art to the description and claims in this application and is not admitted to be prior art by inclusion in this section.

[0003] Power tools such as sanders and polishers are used for material removal, — finishing, and polishing tasks across various industries for working objects. Dust extractors are used for collecting material particles that are released from a worked objects during use of a power tool for working the object. During use of the power tool for working an object the dust extractor should be turned on for collecting released material particles. On the other hand, when the object is not worked the dust extractor should be turned off. The dust extractor can be controlled by user interface that is provided on the dust extractor. x [0004] Power tools are tools that require manual operation by a user, eg.

S handheld toois. When a power tool is operated by a user, the user is gripping the 3 power tool in order to work the object in a controlled manner. | the user would s 25 — release his/her grip to the power tool for controlling a dust extractor and thereafter

E take another grip, he/she would lose her original grip to the power tool. When the o work on the object is continued by the user after controlling the dust extractor, the 3 user would take a new grip to the power tool. However, an orientation of the power

X tool with respect to the worked object can be different when using the new grip than the old grip, which can lead to issues with quality of working the object.

SUMMARY

[0005] The scope of protection sought for various embodiments of the invention is set out by the independent claims. The embodiments, examples and features, if any, described in this specification that do not fall under the scope of the independent claims are to be interpreted as examples useful for understanding various embodiments of the invention.

[0006] According to some aspects, there is provided the subject matter of the independent claims. Some further aspects are defined in the dependent claims. The embodiments that do not fall under the scope of the claims are to be interpreted as examples useful for understanding the disclosure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] For a more complete understanding of example embodiments of the — present invention, reference is now made to the following descriptions taken in connection with the accompanying drawings in which:

Fig. 1 illustrates an example of a power tool for connecting to a dust extractor a dust extractor in accordance with at least some embodiments;

Fig. 2 illustrates examples block diagrams of a power tool and dust extractor in accordance with at least some embodiments; and

Fig. 3 illustrates an example of a method for controlling a dust extractor by a power tool in accordance with at least some embodiments;

N Fig. 4 illustrates an example of a motion of a power tool in accordance with a at least some embodiments; = 25 Fig. 5 illustrates an example of a motion of a power tool in accordance with = at least some embodimenis; i Fig. 6 illustrates an example of a method for controlling a capability of a power 3 tool for controlling a dust extractor in accordance with at least some

X embodiments; and & 30 Fig. 7 illustrates an example of a method for determining a control for a dust extractor in accordance with at least some embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTON OF SOME EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

[0008] The following embodiments are exemplary. Although the specification may refer to "an", "one", or "some" embodiment(s) in several locations, this does not necessarily mean that each such reference is to the same embodiment(s), or that the feature only applies to a single embodiment. Single features of different embodiments may also be combined to provide other embodiments.

[0009] Identical or corresponding functional and structural elements which appear in the different drawings are assigned the same reference numerals. When the words first and second are used to refer to different elements, itis to be understood that this does not necessarily imply or mean that the first and second elements are somehow structurally substantially different elements or that their dimensions are substantially different unless specifically stated.

[0010] In the following the expression “at least one of the following” items, or functionalities, should be understood to mean any one of the listed items or a combination of one or more, or all, of the items.

[0011] There is provided remote-control of a dust extractor for a power tool. A method comprises determining, at the power tool, at least one motion and determining, at the power tool, based on the determined at least one motion, a control of the dust extractor. The control is determined based on at least one of the following: at least one further motion of the power tool; or a user input on the user x interface of the power tool. The determined control is caused by the power tool

N transmitting a control signal causing the determined control of the dust extractor. 3 25 [0012] Fig. 1 illustrates an example of a power tool for connecting to a dust = extractor a dust extractor in accordance with at least some embodiments. The power

E tool 100 can be used for material removal, finishing, and polishing tasks across 2 various industries. The power tool is illustrated by a vertical cross-section of the 3 power tool. The power tool comprises a housing 101 and inside the housing is

O 30 provided an electric motor comprising a stator 106 and a rotor, i.e. a motor shaft 102. The electric motor can be connected to a tool 110 outside of the housing by a tool shaft 104 provided at the motor shaft. In this way the electric motor may be used for driving the tool. The power tool may comprise one or more user interface devices 113 for receiving commands from a user of the power tool for controlling the power tool and outputting the user information for example information indicating an operational status of the power tool and an operational status of the dust extractor.

Examples the user interface devices comprise at least a lever, a knob, a button, a light source, or a display screen. The light source may be for example a light emitting diode (LED) capable of emitting one or more colours of light. The display screen may be a liquid crystal display (LCD). Accordingly, the dust extractor may comprise one or more of each kind of user interface device.

[0013] When the tool 110 is positioned on a surface of a worked object for material removal, finishing, or polishing the worked object, material particles of the worked object are released from the surface of the worked object and propelied into the medium around the tool. The material particles that are propelled into the medium have a speed and thus form a flow of the released material particles.

[0014] The power tool 100 is configured to control the flow of the released material particles such that implications of the released material particles to use of power tool 100 for working the object and nearby personnel can be alleviated, When the material particles are released from the worked material the material particles become suspended into the medium, e.g. the material particles become suspended in air, i.e. airborne.

[0015] The flow of the released material particles may be controlled by a combination of passive means and active means. The passive means control, or guide, the flow of the released materia! particles, without a need for excess power

S consumption, when the tool 110 is driven by the power tool 100. The active means

O 25 control, or guide, the flow of the released material particles by excess power, e.g.

NA power in excess to the power needed for driving the tool 110. The combination of = the passive means and the active means convert the excess power drawn by the > active means into a force that is applied to the flow of the released material particles. 3 [0016] In an example, the passive means for controlling the flow of the released

N 30 material particles comprises one or more guiding structures 112, such as passages,

N ducts, hoses, ports 114. At least a part of the one or more guiding structures may be formed by a shape of the housing 101.

[0017] In an example, the active means for controlling the flow of the released material particles comprises a dust extractor (not shown) connected by a hose to the power tool The dust extractor may be connected to the electric mains that powers an electric motor of the dust extractor. The electric motor of the dust 5 extractor is configured to drive a fan or an impeller that causes a vacuum within the dust extractor. The dust extractor is connected by the hose to a port 114 at the power tool 100 for drawing the flow of the released material particles from the power tool to the vacuum at the dust extractor.

[0018] At the dust extractor, the flow of the released material particles may be conducted to a filter inside the dust extractor for trapping the released material particles and thereby cleaning the flow, e.g. air. In an example, the dust extractor may comprise an automatic filter cleaning functionality. In an example an automatic filter cleaning functionality comprises a mechanism for cleaning the filter automatically without the need for manual intervention. This can be achieved — through various methods, such as reverse airflow, vibration, or mechanical shaking, where accumulated material particles, dust and debris are dislodged from the filter surface. In an example, the automatic filter cleaning functionality provides that, when the automatic filter cleaning functionality is enabled, one or more methods for cleaning the filter may be performed. For example, the airflow through the filter may be periodically reversed for a short time in order to keep the filter clean. The interval between cleaning operations may vary. In an example, the airflow through the filter is reversed at 15 s intervals.

[0018] Fig. 2 illustrates examples block diagrams of a power tool and dust

S extractor in accordance with at least some embodiments. The block diagrams are

O 25 architectural representations of the power tool and the dust extractor for carrying out + functionalities in accordance with at least some embodiments. = [0020] The power tool 202 comprises at least one processor 204, or a controller, > and at least one memory 203 that comprises computer program code that when 3 executed by the processor causes one or more functionalities described in

N 30 accordance with at least some embodiments. For carrying out the one or more

N functionalities described in accordance with at least some embodiments, the at least one processor 204 and at least one memory 203 may be operatively connected to one or more blocks of the a power tool which may be implemented by software or hardware or a combination of software and hardware, said one or more blocks comprising at least one of the following: sensor(s) 205, a communications unit 210, a hose connector 212, a motor 208, user interface device(s) 206.

[0021] The memory 203 may store computer program code 214 to cause at least one of the following functionalities: - determining, at a power tool, at least one motion of the power tool; - determining, at the power tool, based on the determined at least one motion, a control of a dust extractor based on at least one of the following: o at least one further motion of the power tool; or o a user input on the user interface of the power tool; - transmitting, by the power tool over a data connection to the dust extractor, a control signal for causing the determined control of the dust extractor by the power tool; - enabling, at the power tool, a remote-controi capability for controlling the dust extractor over the data connection based on the determined at least one motion by the power tool; - determining, at the power tool, a user input for speed control of the power tool or a timeout for the remote-control capability; - disabling, at the power tool the remote-control capability of the dust extractor based on the determined user input for speed control of the power tool or the timeout for the remote-control capability; - receiving, by the power tool, information indicating an operational state of x the dust extractor;

N - determining, by the power tool, based on the information indicating an 3 25 operational state of the dust extractor, a control of the power tool; - causing, by the power tool, the control of the power tool; o - determining a further control of the dust extractor based on the determined 3 control of the dust extractor and at least one of the following: 3 o at least one further motion of the power tool; or

S 30 o a further user input on the user interface of the power tool;

- transmitting, by the power tool over the data connection to the dust extractor, a control signal for causing the determined further control of the dust extractor by the power tool; - establishing, by the power tool, based on the determined at least one motion, the data connection to the dust extractor.

[0022] In an example, the memory 203 may store a computer program code 214 for a remote-control capability (RCC) 216. The remote-control capability may be enabled and disabled. The RCC provides that one or more functionalities of the dust extractor may be controlled by control signals transmitted to the dust extractor from the power tool. Additionally, the RCC may provide that the one or more functionalities of the power tool may be controlled based on information about an operational state of the dust extractor. In an example, the RCC may be conirolled by the processor 204 to cause communications of information e.g. control signals and operational states, between the dust extractor, and to cause controlling the one — or more functionalities of the power tool and/or the one or more functionalities of the dust extractor. In an example, the RCC comprises a communications protocol stack for communication of information. An example of the communications protocol stack is Bluetooth Low Energy protocol stack defined by the Bluetooth Special interest

Group (SIG). When the remote-control capability, for example BLE capability, is enabled, at least one of the following may be performed: - transmitting, by the power tool over a data connection to the dust extractor, a control signal for causing the determined control of the dust extractor by the power tool;

S - transmitting, by the power tool over the data connection to the dust extractor, a

O 25 — control signal for causing the determined further control of the dust extractor by the + power tool; = - controlling the dust extractor over the data connection based on the determined at > least one motion by the power tool; 3 - receiving, by the power tool, information indicating an operational state of the dust

N 30 extractor;

N - determining, by the power tool, based on the information indicating an operational state of the dust extractor, a control of the power tool; - causing, by the power tool, the control of the power tool.

In an example, the RCC is enabled based on at least one motion. The enabling may be performed in response to detecting said at least one motion. Motions may be detected based on measurements performed by one or more sensors 205 of the power tool. Examples of the sensors comprise at least an accelerometer, for example a triaxial accelerometer. A triaxial accelerometer is a device that measures acceleration in three perpendicular axes: typically designated as X, Y, and Z. This allows the accelerometer to capture movement and orientation in three-dimensiona! space. The "triaxial" aspect refers to its capability to simultaneously measure acceleration along these three axes. In an example, the RCC is disabled based on a user input received from a user at one or more user interface devices (Ul) 206 of the power tool.

[0023] In an example, the communications unit 210, or a connectivity unit, may be configured to provide a wireless data connection. An example of the wireless data connection is a Bluetooth Low Energy connection.

[0024] In an example, the memory 203 may store a computer program code for a communications protocol stack (Power Tool Communications Protocol Entity,

PTCOMMSPE) 220. The communications protocol stack provides communications over a data connection between the power tool and the dust extractor via the communications unit 210. In an example, communications protocol stack is

Bluetooth Low Energy protocol stack defined by the Bluetooth Special Interest

Group (SIG). The communications protocol stack provides that at least one of the following may be performed: - transmitting, by the power tool over a data connection to the dust extractor, a

S control signal for causing the determined control of the dust extractor by the power

LÖ 25 — tool;

I - transmitting, by the power tool over the data connection to the dust extractor, a = control signal for causing the determined further control of the dust extractor by the - power tool; 2 - controlling the dust extractor over the data connection based on the determined at

N 30 least one motion by the power tool;

N - receiving, by the power tool, information indicating an operational state of the dust extractor.

[0025] In an example, the memory 203 may store a computer program code 214 for motion detection (MPD) 218. The computer code for motion detection provides that at least one of the following may be performed: - determining, at a power tool, at least one motion of the power tool; - determining, at a power tool, at least one further motion of the power tool; - measuring an acceleration of the power tool; and determining the at least one motion based on the measured acceleration, wherein the determined at least motion comprises at least one of the following: a tilting pattern of the power tool; or a reciprocating motion of the power tool; or a changing acceleration of the power tool.

In an example the MPD may be configured to receive measurements of one or more sensors 205 of the power tool. The received measurements may be used for detecting, or tracking, one or more motions of the power tool.

[0026] The dust extractor 222 comprises at least one processor 224, or a controller, and at least one memory 223 that comprises computer program code that when executed by the processor causes one or more functionalities described in accordance with at least some embodiments. For carrying out the one or more functionalities described in accordance with at least some embodiments, the at least one processor 224 and at least one memory 223 may be operatively connected to at least one of the following: a communications unit 230, a hose connector 232, a motor 228, filter 229, and user interface device(s) 226. Examples of different kinds of user interface devices comprise at least a lever, a knob, a button, a light source, and a display screen. The light source may be for example a light emitting diode (LED) capable of emitting one or more colours of light. The display screen may be

S a liquid crystal display (LCD). Accordingly, the dust extractor may comprise one or

LÖ 25 more of each kind of user interface device.

I [0027] The memory 223 may store computer program code 234 to cause at least = one of the following functionalities: > - receiving a control signal for causing the determined control of the dust extractor 3 by the power tool;

N 30 - transmitting information indicating an operational state of the dust extractor to the

N power tool; - determining information indicating an operational state of the dust extractor; - turn on the dust extractor;

- turn off the dust extractor; - perform a filter cleaning operation; or - set a hose diameter setting of the dust extractor .

[0028] In an example, the memory 223 may store a computer program code for setting a hose diameter (HD) 238. In an example, a diameter of the hose that connects the dust extractor to the power tool may be a configurable setting, i.e. the hose diameter setting. Various operational parameters of the dust extractor may be set based on the hose diameter setting such that a sufficient air flow through the hose from the power {ool to the dust extractor is facilitated. Examples of the operational parameters comprise a speed of the airflow, a volume of the airflow, and suction power. Furthermore, the hose diameter setting can be used in the dust extractor for determining one or more operational states and/or faults such as for performing pressure measurements for determining a clogged filter or a full dust bag. Accordingly, the hose diameter setting facilitates adaptation of the dust extractor to different hose diameters, for example hose diameters 16-25 mm, for example 21 mm.

[0028] In an example, the memory 223 may store a computer program code for setting operational parameters of the dust extractor based on the hose diameter setting.

[0030] In an example, the memory 223 may store a computer program code for performing filter cleaning (FC) 236. In an example, the filter may comprise an automatic cleaning functionality that may be controlled by the computer program code for performing filter cleaning based on a control signal received from the power

S tool. In an example the control signal from the power tool may comprise information

O 25 indicating that the automatic cleaning functionality is turned off or the control signal <+ from the power tool may comprise information indicating that the automatic cleaning = functionality is turned on. > [0031] In an example, the communications unit 230, or a connectivity unit, may 3 be configured to provide a wireless data connection, An example of the wireless

N 30 data connection is a Bluetooth Low Energy connection.

N [0032] nan example, the memory 223 may store a computer program code for a communications protocol stack 240 (Dust Extractor Communications Protocol

Entity, DECOMMSPE) The communications protocol stack provides communications over a data connection between the power tool and the dust extractor via the communications unit 230. In an example, communications protocol stack is Bluetooth Low Energy protocol stack defined by the Bluetooth Special

Interest Group (SIG). The communications protocol stack provides that at least one of the following may be performed: - receiving a control signal for causing the determined control of the dust extractor by the power tool; - transmitting information indicating an operational state of the dust extractor to the power tool.

[0033] Fig. 3 illustrates an example of a method for controlling a dust extractor by a power tool in accordance with at least some embodiments. The method provides a user of the power tool to control the dust extractor with the help of the power tool.

The dust extractor is connected to the power tool by a hose for causing a vacuum at the power tool, whereby dust may be collected from the power tool, when the — power tool is used by a user to work an object. Phase 302 of the method comprises determining, at the power tool, at least one motion of the power tool.

[0034] Phase 304 of the method comprises determining, at the power tool, based on the determined at least one motion, a control of a dust extractor based on at least one of the following: o at least one further motion of the power tool; or o a user input on the user interface of the power tool.

[0035] Phase 306 of the method comprises transmitting, by the power tool over a x data connection to the dust extractor, a control signal for causing the determined

N control of the dust extractor by the power tool. The at least one motion causes the 3 25 power tool to operate as a remote controller for the dust extractor, whereby further 3 motion and/or user input may be used to determine a control of the dust extractor.

E [0036] In an example, the at least one motion in phase 302 and the at least one 2 further motion may be a seguence of motions of the power tool. Accordingly, more 3 than one motion of the power tool may be detected at time instants that are arranged

O 30 in a sequence, thereby forming a sequence of time instants and corresponding motions of the power tool.

[0037] In an example in accordance with at least some embodiments, phase 302 comprises enabling, at the power tool, a remote-control capability for controlling the dust extractor over the data connection based on the determined at least one motion by the power tool. In an example, once the at least one motion is detected, a remote- control capability of the dust extractor may be turned on. A control of the dust extractor may be determined using at least one further motion and/or user input on the user interface, whereby a control signal corresponding to the determined control may be transmitted to the dust extractor.

[0038] In an example in accordance with at least some embodiments, phase 306 comprises determining, at the power tool, a user input for speed control of the power tool or a timeout for the remote-control capability; and disabling, at the power tool the remote-control capability of the dust extractor based on the determined user input for speed control of the power tool or the timeout for the remote-control capability. In this way the remote-control of the dust extractor may be turned off at — the power tool, whereby a further user input received from the user is not interpreted for a control of the dust extractor, In an example, the timeout may be determined after a time period has lapsed after enabling the remote-control capability, or a time period has lapsed after a latest control signal that has been transmitted from the power tool to the dust extractor for controlling the dust extractor over the data connection. In an example, the user input for speed control indicates a speed setting of a motor of the power tool, an increase of a speed of motor of the power tool, or a decrease of a speed of motor of the power tool.

[0039] In an example in accordance with at least some embodiments, phase 304

S comprises receiving, by the power tool, information indicating one or more

O 25 operational states of the dust extractor; and determining, by the power tool, based - on the information indicating one or more operational states of the dust extractor, at = least one control of the power tool; and causing, by the power tool, the at least one > control of the power tool. In this, way the dust extractor may be controlled by the 3 power tool, when the power tool is used for working the object, whereby interruptions

N 30 to the operation of the power tool may be reduced.

N [0040] In an example in accordance with at least some embodiments, phase 304 comprises that the information indicating one or more operational states of the dust extractor indicates an impaired or inoperative suction capability of the dust exiractor.

In an example, the information indicating one or more operational states of the dust extractor may comprise error messages which are transferred from the dust extractor to the power tool. In an example, the impaired or inoperative suction capability of the dust extractor may be indicated by the power tool receiving from the dust extractor information indicating one or more operational states comprising at least one of the following: a dust bag of the dust extractor is full; or a filter of the dust extractor is clogged; or the dust extractor has a motor fault. Examples of the motor fault comprise overheating and electrical overload. The information indicating the operational state of the dust extractor may be determined at the dust extractor — for controlling operation of the dust extractor. For example, the clogged filter or the full dust bag of the dust extractor may be determined based on an airflow estimate.

Hose diameter setting may be a configurable setting of the dust extractor, which can be used together with pressure measurements performed at the dust extractor for determining the airflow estimate. The airflow estimate can be monitored at the dust extractor for determining the clogged filter or the full dust bag.

[0041] In an example in accordance with at least some embodiments, phase 304 comprises that the control of the power tool may comprise at least one of the following: turning off the power tool; or reducing a maximum motor speed of an electric motor of the power tool; or reducing an input current of an electric motor of the power tool; or emitting an optical signal by the power tool. In an example, the power tool may be turned off by cutting-off input (electric) power to an electric motor of the power tooi, whereby a motor speed of the power tool decreases and eventually the motor stops. The maximum motor speed may be reduced by limiting

S an input current to the electric motor of the power tool. Turning of the power tool,

O 25 reducing the maximum speed of the motor and reducing the input current of the

NA motor alleviate further generation of dust that cannot be properly extracted by the = dust extractor if a suction capability of the dust extractor is impaired or inoperative. > Continued use of the power tool in case of impaired or inoperative suction capability 3 can involve undesirable effects such as dust accumulation on the workpiece,

N 30 decreased visibility, and increased risk of inhaling hazardous particles. The optical

N signal may be emitted by a light source or a display screen provided at ihe power tool. The light source may be a light emitting diode (LED), for example. The light source may be controlled to blink and/or to emit light at a specific colour, e.g. red,

for emitting the optical signal and indicating a user of the power tool an operational state of the dust extractor. On the other hand, the display screen may be controlled to display an error message that serves for the optical signal. The error message may be highlighted by a colour and/or the error message may be caused to blink on the display screen. Since the optical signal is provided at the power tool the user of the power tool can be informed about the operational state of the dust extractor without a need for the user to re-focus his/her gaze at the dust extractor, or manually operating the dust extractor, for determining the operational state of the dust extractor. The operational state, e.g. impaired or inoperative suction capability, is related to the functioning of the dust extractor and the optical signal prompts the user regarding the operational state of the dust extractor. After being provided with the information about the operational state, the user can decide whether to continue working the object by the power tool that is connected to the dust extractor. For example, if the operational state of the dust extractor indicates that the suction capability of the dust extractor is impaired or inoperative, the user can determine to stop working the object with the power too! and e.g. move the sander away from the worked object. In this way further generation of dust that cannot be properly extracted by the dust extractor may be avoided. The use of the power tool for working the object can be continued after the dust extractor has been serviced, e.g. by emptying the dust bag, cleaning the filter, or resolving the motor fault.

Accordingly, the optical signal provides that the user is prompted of internal state of the dust extractor, which can dynamically change, when the object is worked by the power tool and the dust extractor is operational for removing the dust. It should be

S noted that when the user of the power tool is working the object by the power tool,

O 25 the operational state of the dust extractor may be challenging or impossible to <+ determine by the user, since the gaze of the user is on the worked object and the = power tool. The dust extractor provides power for vacuuming particles that are > generated during the working of the object, which is transferred to the power tool by 3 the hose that connects the dust extractor and the power tool. Therefore, the location

N 30 of the dust extractor is in practise well beyond a field of vision of the user of the

N power tool. The optical signal provided at the power tool, therefore, provides that the user of the power tool can be provided information about the operational state of the dust extractor within the field of vision of the user, when the user is engaged with working the object. In an example, information about the operational state of the dust extractor comprises error messages which are transferred from the dust extractor to the power tool.

[0042] In an example, phase 306 comprises that the information indicating an operational state of the dust extractor indicates an impaired or inoperative suction capability of the dust extractor and the control of the power tool comprises turning of the power tool. Turning of the power tool alleviates further generation of dust that cannot be properly extracted by the dust extractor, when the suction capability of the dust extractor is impaired or inoperative.

[0043] In an example in accordance with at least some embodiments, phase 306 comprises determining a further control of the dust extractor based on the determined control of the dust extractor and at least one of the following: o atleast one further motion of the power tool; or o a further user input on the user interface of the power tool; and transmitting, by the power tool over the data connection to the dust extractor, a control signal for causing the determined further control of the dust extractor by the power tool. In this way the dust extractor may be controlled by a seguence of more than one controls, for example two, three, four or more controls.

[0044] In an example in accordance with at least some embodiments, phase 306 comprises establishing, by the power tool, based on the determined at least one motion, the data connection to the dust extractor. In an example, the data connection may be a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) connection. In an example, the

N power tool may be a BLE server and the dust extractor may be a BLE client or vice a versa. If the power tool is a BLE client the determined at least one motion may be = 25 used to establish a BLE data connection to the dust extractor that is a BLE server. = It should be noted that if there are more than one BLE server, e.g. dust extractor, 2 nearby, the BLE server that has the strongest signal strength may be selected and 3 the data connection is established to the BLE server that has the strongest signal. 3 Establishing a BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) connection between a BLE client and a & 30 BLE server may be performed as follows: e Advertising: The BLE server (often referred to as the peripheral) starts broadcasting its presence using advertising packets. These packets may contain basic information about the device, such as its name and optionally services offered. In an example, if the power tool is a BLE server the advertising packets may include information identifying the power tool and at least one service provided by the power tool, e.g. a service UUID (Universally

Unique Identifiers) and name of the power tool, e.g. "Mypolisher”. in an example, if the dust extractor is a BLE server the advertising packets may include information identifying the dust extractor and at least one service provided by the dust extractor, e.g. a service UUID (Universally Unigue

Identifiers} and name of the dust extractor, e.g. "Mydustextractor. In the example the advertising packets can include: o Service UUIDs: Universally Unique identifiers (UUIDs) representing the specific services the BLE server provides. For internet connectivity, a relevant UUID would be included to identify this service. o Shortened Local Name: If the device's full name is too long for the advertising packet, a shortened version is used to help identify it. o Manufacturer-Specific Data: Any specific information about the manufacturer or device that couid help clients recognize its internet connectivity capabilities. o Service Data: Further details about the services provided, sometimes in an encoded format that can help identify key features. o Flags: Indicators that identify the device's capabilities, like whether it can be paired or connected. o Tx Power Level: Information about the signal strength and proximity

S of the server. e 25 e Scanning: The BLE client (often referred to as the central) listens for these > advertising packets to discover available devices in its range.

I o The client filters through the advertising packets to find the BLE server a > that offers the desired services. 3 + Connection Request: Once the client identifies the desired BLE server, it

N 30 sends a connection request. The server can accept or reject the request.

N + Pairing (Optional): If required, the client and server go through a pairing process to ensure a secure connection. This might include an exchange of keys and other security credentials.

e Service Discovery: After pairing or directly following the connection request, the client queries the server to discover the services and characteristics available. This step ensures the client knows what data can be accessed. e Data Exchange: With the connection established and services discovered, the client can read from or write to the characteristics on the server, or receive notifications/indications from the server about data changes.

[0045] In an example in accordance with at least some embodiments, phase 306 comprises that the control signal comprises: a. information indicating that the power tool has been turned on or turned off; or b. information indicating a speed setting for the dust extractor; or c. information indicating a speed increase of the dust extractor; or d. information indicating a speed decrease of the dust extractor; or e. information indicating to turn on the dust extractor; or f. information indicating to turn off the dust extractor; or g. information indicating the dust extractor to turn on or to turn off an automatic filter cleaning functionality; or h. information indicating a hose diameter setting for the dust extractor.

In an example the information indicating that the power tool has been turned on may be used to indicate to the dust extractor that the power tool has been turned on and the dust extractor should be turned on. Accordingly, the dust extractor may be turned on in response to the dust extractor receiving the information indicating that s the power tool has been turned on. On the other hand, the information indicating

N that the power tooi has been turned off may be used to indicate to the dust extractor

S 25 that the power tool has been turned off and the dust extractor should be turned off.

I Accordingly, the dust extractor may be turned off in response to the dust extractor

E receiving the information indicating that the power tool has been turned on. A motor x speed, e.g. speed of a motor shaft in revolutions per minute, may be used for 3 indicating whether the power tool has been turned off, or turned on. In an example

O 30 the speed setting for the dust extractor may control a motor speed of the dust extractor. Accordingly, the motor speed received from the power tool may be used at the dust extractor for controlling, or set, the motor speed of the dust extractor.

The speed setting may be a specific motor speed, e.g. a minimum motor speed or a last set motor speed of the dust extractor prior to turning off the dust extractor. In an example the speed increase of the dust extractor may cause the dust extractor to increase a motor speed of the dust extractor. in an example the speed decrease of the dust extractor may cause the dust extractor to decrease a motor speed of the dust extractor. In an example the information indicating to tum on of the dust extractor may cause the dust extractor to be turned on at a pre-set default speed of the motor speed, or at a minimum motor speed, or at a last set speed of the motor prior to turning off the dust extractor. In an example the dust extractor may be turned off by cutting of input power to the electric motor of the dust extractor, whereby a motor speed of the dust extractor decreases and the electric motor eventually stops.

In an example, the information indicating the dust extractor to turn on an automatic filter cleaning functionality may cause that filter cleaning of the dust extractor is performed by the dust extractor automatically without a need for manual intervention, In an example, the information indicating the dust extractor to turn off an automatic filter cleaning functionality may cause that a filter cleaning of the dust extractor is not performed, at least without manual intervention. Therefore, the filter cleaning is not initiated without manual intervention. In an example, the information indicating the hose diameter setting for the dust extractor may be utilized at the dust extractor for controlling operation of the dust extractor, for example for determining an airflow estimate.

[0046] In an example in accordance with at least some embodiments, phase 302 and/or 304 may comprise measuring an acceleration of the power tool; and

S determining the at least one motion based on the measured acceleration, wherein

O 25 the determined at least motion comprises at least one of the following: a tilting <+ pattern of the power tool; or a reciprocating motion of the power tool; or a changing = acceleration of the power tool. In an example, a tilling pattern may be a sequence > of motions, where the power tool may first have an initial position, where the power 3 tool is tilted with respect to a reference, e.g. the gravity. Then, the power tool may

N 30 be moved to another tilted position with respect to the gravity and thereafter to a

N further tilted position with respect to the gravity. All the tilling positions may be different. On the other hand, once the initial position has been changed, the power tool may be tilted directly back to the initial position or tilted directly back to the initial position via one or more intermediary tilting positions. In an example, a reciprocating motion of the power tool may be a movement of a position of the power tool back and forth. In an example, a changing acceleration of the power tool may be measured from an initial position of the power tool to a direction of movement of the power tool. In an example, motions of the power tool may be determined based on measuring an acceleration of the power tool and determining specific motions based on at least one of the following: a position; or a direction of movement of the power tool; or tilting of the power tool. The acceleration may be measured in a coordinate system, for example a cartesian coordinate system that comprises X-, Y- and Z- axis, fixed to the power tool. In an example, the position of the power tool at a given moment in time obtained by measuring the gravitational force, G, in the directions of X-, Y- and Z-axis, whereby the direction of the G in the coordinate system of the power tool may be obtained. Then, the tilting pattern of the power tool may be determined based on measuring angles of the power tool with respect to one or — more axes of the coordinate system; the reciprocating motion of the power tool may be determined based on measuring the movement of the power tool back and forth in a given direction defined in the coordinate system; and the changing acceleration of the power tool may be determined based on measuring values of acceleration of the power tool in a given direction defined in the coordinate system.

[0047] Fig. 4 illustrates examples of a motion of a power tool in accordance with at least some embodiments. The motion may be performed by the power tool described with reference to Fig. 1. The motion is described using a cartesian coordinate system with X-, Y- and Z- axis fixed to the power tool 100. In this example

S the motion is a tilling pattern. The tilling pattern comprises three positions of the

O 25 power tool with respect to the direction of gravity and the time axis. In an initial <+ position 402, the Y axis is directed out of the page and the direction of gravity is = parallel to the Z axis. The power tool is tilted from the initial position to a next position > 404, where the Y axis is directed out of the page and the X-axis is pointing upwards. 3 Therefore, the direction of gravity is opposite to the direction of the X-axis.

N 30 Therefore, the power tool has been tilted from the initial position 402 to the next

N position by rotating tilting the power tool around the Y-axis. From this position 404 the power tool is tilted to a further position 406. In the further position, the directions of the X-, Y- and Z-axis is the same, or parallel, or at least substantially corresponds,

with the directions of the X-, Y- and Z-axis in the initial position. Therefore, the motion in Fig. 4 shows a back and forth tilting of the power tool which can be detected to determine to enable a remote-control capability of the dust extractor or to determine a control of the dust extractor in accordance to described with the method of Fig. 3.

[0048] Fig. 5 illustrates examples of a motion of a power tool in accordance with at least some embodiments. The motion may be performed by the power tool described with reference to Fig. 1. The motion is described using a cartesian coordinate system with X-, Y- and Z- axis fixed to the power tool 100. In this example the motion is a reciprocating motion of the power tool. The reciprocating motion comprises three positions of the power tool with respect to the direction of gravity and the time axis. In an initial position 502, the Y axis is directed out of the page and the direction of gravity is parallel to the Z axis. At the initial position the power tool is at a position 'a'= (Xa, Ya, Za). The power tool is moved from the initial position to a — next, or a second, position 504 'b'= (Xs, yb, 2b). In this example, the power tool is moved along the Z-axis, however it should be noted that the power tool may be moved along any of the axes, or in a direction defined by two or three of the axes.

Accordingly, it should be noted that the movement of the power tool may be a linear movement, i.e. where the position of the power tool changes along a straight line in the coordinate system, but also a circular movement is possible. From this position 504 the power tool is moved to a further position 506 '€'= (Xe, Ye, Ze). The power tool is moved from the second position to the further position by a movement of the power tool substantially along the same path as the power tool was moved to the

S second position 'b'. Accordingly, in this example the power tool is moved from the

LÖ 25 initial position to the second position and to the further position in a direction that is = parallel to the Z-axis. It should be noted that the initial position ‘a’ and the further = position 'C' may, but not necessarily, be substantially the same position. Therefore, > the motion in Fig. 5 shows a back and forth, or a reciprocating, movement of the 3 power tool which can be detected to determine to enable a remote-control capability

N 30 of the dust extractor or to determine a control of the dust extractor in accordance to

N described with the method of Fig. 3.

[0049] Fig. 6 illustrates an example of a method for controlling a capability of a power tool for controlling a dust extractor in accordance with at least some embodiments. The power tool may be in accordance to described in any of Figs. 1 and 2. The capability may be used by a user of the power tool for controlling the dust extractor, when the dust extractor is connected to the power tool by a hose for causing a vacuum at the power tool, whereby dust may be collected from the power — tool, when the power tool is used by the user to work an object. The method starts 602, when a motor speed of the power tool is adjustable by a user input to a user interface device of the power tool and the power tool is configured for detecting one or more motions of the power tool. Phase 604 comprises determining at least one motion of the power tool. Phase 606 comprises enabling, at the power tool, a remote-control capability for controlling the dust extractor over the data connection based on the determined at least one motion by the power tool. Phase 608 comprises determining whether a condition for disabling the remote-control capability has been met. If the condition for disabling the remote-control capability has been met, the method proceeds to phase 610 comprising disabling, at the power — tool the remote-control capability of the dust extractor based on the determined condition being met. Examples of the condition for disabling the remote-control capability has been met comprise receiving at least a user input for speed control of the power tool and a timeout for the remote-control capability.

[0050] In an example, phase 608 comprises determining, or receiving, a user input for speed control of the power tool. If the user input for speed control is determined, the method proceeds to phase 610 comprising disabling, at the power tool the remote-control capability of the dust extractor based on the determined user input for speed control of the power tool.

S [0051] In an example, phase 608 comprises determining a timeout for the remote-

O 25 control capability. If the timeout for the remote-control capability is determined, the <+ method proceeds to phase 610 comprising disabling, at the power tool the remote- = control capability of the dust extractor based on the determined timeout for the > remote-control capability. In an example, the timeout may be determined after a time 3 period has lapsed after enabling the remote-control capability in phase 606, or a

N 30 time period has lapsed after a latest control signal that has been transmitted from

N the power tool to the dust extractor for controlling the dust extractor over the data connection.

[0052] If the condition for disabling the remote-control capability has not been met in phase 608 in phase 608, the remote-control capability stays enabled which is illustrated by the arrow 'N' from the phase 608 to input of phase 608. Accordingly, the remote-control capability may stay enabled until the condition for disabling the remote-control capability has been met in phase 608. When the remote-control capability is disabled in phase 610, the dust extractor cannot be controlled based on motions of the power tool and the method ends 612. However, the method may be executed anew, whereby the remote-control capability may be enabled again for controlling the dust extractor by the power tool.

[0053] Fig. 7 illustrates an example of a method for determining a control for a dust extractor in accordance with at least some embodiments. The power tooi may be in accordance to described in any of Figs. 1 and 2. The conirol may be determined, when the dust extractor is connected to the power tool by a hose for causing a vacuum at the power tool for collecting dust from the power tool. The — method starts 702, when a remote-control capability for controlling the dust extractor over the data connection has been enabled. Phase 704 comprises determining at least one motion of the power tool. Phase 708 comprises determining whether the determined motion matches to a control of the dust extractor. If the determined motion matches to a control of the dust extractor, the method proceeds to phase 708 that comprises transmitting a control signal for causing the determined control of the dust extractor by the power tool. If the determined motion fails to match to a control of the dust extractor, the method may proceed to phase 704 for continuing to determine motions of the power tool. The method ends in 710 after the control

S has been determined. The determined control may be caused at the dust extractor

O 25 in accordance to described in phase 306 of Fig. 3. <+ [0054] In an example, the control may be at least one of the following: setting a = motor speed of the dust extractor; or increasing a motor speed of the dust extractor; > or decreasing a motor speed of the dust extractor; or turning the dust extractor on; 3 or turning the dust extractor off; or turning on an automatic filter cleaning

N 30 functionality of the dust extractor; or turning off an automatic filter cleaning

N functionality of the dust extractor; or set a hose diameter setting of the dust extractor.

It should be noted that each control may be associated with a specific motion for controlling the dust extractor. At least one or more of the following may be adjusted for defining a motion for a control of the dust extractor: positions of the power tool; or directions of movement of the power tool; or acceleration change of the power tool.

[0055] The foregoing description has provided by way of exemplary and non- limiting examples a full and informative description of the exemplary embodiment of this invention. However, various modifications and adaptations may become apparent to those skilled in the relevant arts in view of the foregoing description, when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and the appended claims. However, all such and similar modifications of the teachings of this invention — will still fall within the scope of this invention.

Reference signs 100 Power tool 101 Housing 102 Motor shaft 104 Tool shaft 106 Stator 110 Tool 112 Guiding structures 113 User interface device 114 Port 202 Power tool 203 Memory 204 Processor 205 Sensors 206 User interface device + 208 Motor

N 210 Communications unit

N 212 Hose connector 3 214 Computer program code < 216 Remote-control capability = 218 Motion detection

E 220 Communications protocol stack » 222 Dust extractor 2 223 Memory 0 224 Processor

N 226 User interface device

N 228 Motor 229 Filter 230 Communications unit 232 Hose connector

234 Computer program code 236 Filter cleaning 238 Hose diameter 239 Hose 240 Communications protocol stack 302, 304, 306 Phases of Fig. 3 402, 404, 406 Positions of the power tool in Fig. 4 502, 504, 506 Positions of the power tool in Fig. 5 602, 604, 606, 608, 610, 612 Phases of Fig. 6 702, 704, 706, 708, 710 Phases of Fig. / <

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Claims

1. A method comprising: — determining, at a power tool, at least one motion of the power tool; — determining, at the power tool, based on the determined at least one motion, a control of a dust extractor based on at least one of the following: o at least one further motion of the power tool; or o a user input on the user interface of the power tool; — transmitting, by the power tool over a data connection to the dust extractor, a control signal for causing the determined control of the dust extractor by the power tool.

2. The method of claim 1, comprising: — enabling, at the power tool, a remote-control capability for controlling the dust extractor over the data connection based on the determined at least one motion by the power tool.

3. The method of claim 2, comprising: — determining, at the power tool, a user input for speed control of the power tool or a timeout for the remote-control capability; and — disabling, at the power tool the remote-control capability of the dust < extractor based on the determined user input for speed control of the S power tool or the timeout for the remote-control capability. ro

4. The method of any of claims 1 to 3, comprising: > 25 — receiving, by the power tool, information indicating one or more = operational states of the dust extractor; and > — determining, by the power tool, based on the received information 3 indicating one or more operational states of the dust extractor, at least N one control of the power tool; and = 30 — causing, by the power tool, the at least one control of the power tool.

5. The method of claim 4, wherein the at least one control of the power tool comprises at least one of the following: turning off the power tool; or reducing a maximum motor speed of an electric motor of the power tool; or reducing an input current of an electric motor of the power tool; or emitting an optical signal by the power tool.

6. The method of claim 4 or 5, wherein the information indicating one or more operational states of the dust extractor indicates an impaired or inoperative suction capability of the dust extractor.

7. The method of any of claims 1 to 6, comprising: — determining a further control of the dust extractor based on the determined control of the dust extractor and at least one of the following: o at least one further motion of the power tool; or o a further user input on the user interface of the power tool; and — transmitting, by the power tool over the data connection to the dust extractor, a control signal for causing the determined further control of the dust extractor by the power tool.

8. The method of any of claims 1 to 7, comprising: — establishing, by the power tool, based on the determined at least one motion, the data connection to the dust extractor.

9. The method of any of claims 1 to 8, wherein the control signal comprises at least one of: o Information indicating that the power tool has been turned on or s tuned of or N o information indicating a speed setting for the dust extractor; or ro 25 o Information indicating a speed increase of the dust extractor; or > o information indicating a speed decrease of the dust extractor; or z o Information indicating to turn on the dust extractor; or > o information indicating to turn off the dust extractor; or 3 o information indicating the dust extractor to turn on or to turn off an N 30 automatic filter cleaning functionality of the dust extractor; or N o Information indicating a hose diameter setting of the dust extractor.

10. The method of any of claims 1 to 9, comprising measuring an acceleration of the power tool; and determining the at least one motion based on the measured acceleration, wherein the determined at least motion comprises at least one of the following:

a. a tilting pattern of the power tool; or b. a reciprocating motion of the power tool; or c. a changing acceleration of the power tool.

11. A power tool comprising a controller connected to a motion sensor and a connectivity unit, wherein the power tool is configured to: — determine, at the power tool, at least one motion of the power tool; — determine, at the power tool, based on the determined at least one motion, a control of a dust extractor based on at least one of the following: o at least one further motion of the power tool; or o a user input on the user interface of the power tool; — transmit, by the power tool over a data connection to the dust extractor, a control signal for causing the determined control of the dust extractor by the power tool.

12. The power tool of claim 11, configured to: — enable, at the power tool, a remote-control capability for controlling the dust extractor over the data connection based on the determined at least one motion by the power tool. <

13. The power tool of claim 12, configured to: S — determine, at the power tool, a user input for speed control of the power ro 25 tool or a timeout for the remote-control capability; and + — disable, at the power tool the remote-control capability of the dust = extractor based on the determined user input for speed control of the > power tool or the timeout for the remote-control capability. 3

14. The power tool of any of claims 11 to 13, configured to: X 30 — receive, by the power tool, information indicating an operational state of the dust extractor; and

— determine, by the power tool, based on the information indicating an operational state of the dust extractor, a control of the power tool; and — cause, by the power tool, the control of the power tool.

15. The power tool of any of claims 11 to 14, wherein the at least one control of the power tool comprises at least one of the following: turning off the power tool; or reducing a maximum motor speed of an electric motor of the power tool; or reducing an input current of an electric motor of the power tool; or emitting an optical signal by the power tool.

16. The power tool of any of claims 11 to 15, wherein the information indicating one or more operational states of the dust extractor indicates an impaired or inoperative suction capability of the dust extractor.

17. The power tool of any of claims 11 to 16, configured to: — store, by the power tool, the determined control of the dust extractor by the power tool; and — determine a further control of the dust extractor based on the stored control and at least one of the following: o at least one further motion of the power tool; or o a further user input on the user interface of the power tool; — transmit, by the power tool over the data connection to the dust extractor, a control signal for causing the determined further control of the dust extractor by the power tool.

18. The power tool of any of claims 11 to 17, configured to: + — establish, by the power tool, based on the determined at least one S motion, the data connection to the dust extractor. ro 25

19. The power tool of any of claims 11 to 18, wherein the control signal + comprises at least one of: = o information indicating rotation of motor of the power tool; or > o information indicating a speed setting for the dust extractor; or 3 o information indicating a speed increase of the dust extractor; or N 30 o Information indicating a speed decrease of the dust extractor; or N o information indicating to turn on the dust extractor; or o information indicating to turn off the dust extractor; or o Information indicating the dust extractor to turn on or to turn off an automatic filter cleaning functionality; or o Information indicating a hose diameter setting of a hose between the dust extractor to adjust and the power tool.

20. The power tool of any of claims 11 to 19, configured to: measure an acceleration of the power tool; and determine the at least one motion based on the measured acceleration, wherein the determined at least motion comprises at least one of the following: a tilting pattern of the power tool; or a reciprocating motion of the power tool; or a changing acceleration of the power tool.

21. The power tool according to any of claims 11 to 20, wherein the power tool is a polisher, sander, grinder, or a circular saw.

22.An apparatus comprising means for performing a method according to any of claims 1 to 10.

23.A computer program comprising instructions that when executed by a power tool comprising a controller operatively connected to a motion sensor and a connectivity unit, cause performing a method according to any of claims 1 to 10. < N O N LÖ ? < I = oO O O LO < N O N