JP7777505B2 - Air compressor, how to display information about air compressor - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an air compressor that can be used with a general AC power source, such as a household power source or a temporary commercial power source, and also to an information display method that utilizes wireless communication between the air compressor and an information display device (portable communication device).

AC-powered air compressors are commonly known as devices for generating compressed air, and are used for nailing work at construction sites and other locations where AC power is available.

A conventional AC-powered air compressor consists of a compressor for generating compressed air and an air tank for storing that compressed air. The compressor is equipped with an electric motor driven by AC power and is mounted and fixed on top of the air tank while covered. The air tank that supports the compressor generally consists of two cylinders arranged in parallel.

Many of these types of air compressors are portable devices, and are designed with portability in mind, such as by being equipped with a handle for carrying them. Due to their high functionality, these air compressors are widely used at construction sites and other locations where nailing and other tasks are required.

Such AC-powered air compressors generally use AC power sources such as household power or temporary commercial power, but the capacity of the breakers installed on such AC power sources is mostly 100V AC, 15A. For this reason, the maximum capacity of AC-powered air compressors currently available is set to 100V AC, 15A or less so that they can be used with general AC power sources. As a result, there is little difference in performance, such as air discharge volume, between conventional AC-powered air compressors.

However, depending on the site where an AC-powered air compressor is used, there may be a high volume of compressed air consumed, and in such cases, the supply (generation) of compressed air may not be able to keep up with the rate of compressed air consumption (consumption by air tools). For this reason, air compressor users have been strongly demanding the provision of a new AC-powered air compressor that can be used with a standard AC power source but that surpasses conventional devices in terms of performance, such as air discharge volume.

Furthermore, depending on the site where an AC-powered air compressor is used, multiple electrically powered devices, including the air compressor, may be used simultaneously using the same AC power source. In such cases, the power supply may be cut off due to a circuit breaker tripping caused by insufficient power capacity. When the power supply is cut off in this way, work using the electrically powered devices must be interrupted, which is a problem.

Furthermore, in situations where the power supply is cut off due to insufficient power supply capacity or other reasons, users using air tools in locations far from the air compressor may continue to consume compressed air while the equipment is stopped, unaware that the power has been cut off, and eventually be forced to halt work due to a drop in pressure. In such cases, the user does not know whether the cause of the air compressor's shutdown is a malfunction on the air compressor side or a problem on the power supply side (and in some cases may mistakenly conclude that the malfunction is on the air compressor side), which creates the problem of being unable to quickly begin work to restore power, etc.

Even if the power supply is not interrupted, a drop in power supply voltage can cause a drop in motor output. If an air tool is used continuously while the air compressor's motor output is low, the pressure in the air tank may not rise to the required level. In other words, a power shortage can prevent the continued supply of large amounts of compressed air, resulting in problems such as a loss of continuity in work using the air tool.

In view of the above-mentioned problems, an object of the present invention is to provide a new air compressor that can be used with a general AC power source such as a household power source or a temporary commercial power source, and that has performance such as air discharge volume that surpasses that of conventional devices.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a new air compressor that can avoid interruptions in work due to power shortages and the like as much as possible, and enable work using air tools to continue.
Another object of the present invention is to provide an air compressor and method that can provide appropriate support to users of air compressors by informing them of the current status of the air compressor and various guidance based on that status.

Such a purpose is
An air compressor comprising a compressor having a motor for generating compressed air and an air tank for storing the compressed air,
A motor driven by an AC power supply as its main power source (main power supply source);
a battery for powering the motor;
power supply control means for controlling the power supply from the AC power supply to the motor and the power supply from the battery to the motor;
This is achieved by an air compressor having

Furthermore, the above objectives are
An air compressor comprising a compressor having a motor for generating compressed air and an air tank for storing the compressed air,
a battery for powering the motor when needed;
a motor driven by power supplied from either or both of an AC power source, which is an external power source, and the battery;
power supply control means for controlling the power supply from the AC power supply to the motor and the power supply from the battery to the motor;
This is achieved by an air compressor having

In the air compressor, the power supply control means is, for example,
(1) a first power supply mode in which the motor is driven by power from the AC power supply;
(2) a second power supply mode in which the motor is driven by power from the AC power supply plus power from the battery;
The motor is driven in either of the power supply modes.

In the air compressor, the power supply control means is, for example,
(1) a first power supply mode in which the motor is driven by power from the AC power supply;
(2) a second power supply mode in which the motor is driven by power from the AC power supply and power from the battery;
(3) a third power supply mode in which the motor is driven by power from the battery;
The motor is driven in either of the power supply modes.

In the air compressor, the power supply control means is, for example,
(a) Air compressor condition,
(b) the status of the power supply from said AC power source;
The power supply mode is switched depending on the situation.

The air compressor may also have a power mode switching means for manually switching the power mode.

Furthermore, in the above air compressor, the battery may be configured to be rechargeable using power supplied from an AC power source.

Furthermore, in the above air compressor, the battery may be removable.

Furthermore, in the above air compressor, the battery may be configured to be detachable from the air compressor, and configured to be able to receive external power when removed from the air compressor.

The air compressor may also have a communication unit for wirelessly transmitting equipment information about the current status of the air compressor to an information display device carried by a user located away from the air compressor.

In addition, the above objectives are:
An information display method for an air compressor using the above-mentioned air compressor and an information display device that performs wireless communication with the air compressor,
a step in which the air compressor wirelessly transmits equipment information relating to the current state of the air compressor to an information display device carried by a user who is located away from the air compressor;
a step in which the information display device displays equipment information relating to the current state of the air compressor in real time based on equipment information received from the air compressor;
This is achieved by an information display method including:

In addition, the above objectives are:
An information display method for an air compressor using the above-mentioned air compressor and an information display device that performs wireless communication with the air compressor,
a step in which the air compressor transmits, via wireless communication, equipment information relating to the current state of the air compressor to an information display device carried by a user who is located away from the air compressor;
a step of displaying, by the information display device, support information for supporting a user who uses the air compressor based on the equipment information received from the air compressor;
This is achieved by an information display method including:

The air compressor of the present invention has a motor that is driven by an AC power source as its main power source, and a battery power source that supplies power to the motor. The motor, which is the power source for generating compressed air, is driven by a general AC power source such as a household power source or a temporary commercial power source as its main power source, and is also driven by power supplied from the battery power source built into the air compressor. The AC power source is what is known as an "external power source," and the battery power source is an "internal power source" built into the air compressor itself.
Therefore, according to the present invention, it is possible to add power supplied from a battery as needed to the power supplied from a general AC power source, which is an external power source, thereby increasing the motor capacity of the air compressor and, as a result, improving the performance of the air compressor. In other words, although the air compressor of the present invention is a device that can be used with a general AC power source, it can achieve performance that surpasses that of conventional AC-powered compressors.
Furthermore, by combining power from the AC power supply and power from the battery, it is possible to increase the rotational torque of the motor. As a result, not only can the performance related to the generation of compressed air be improved overall (basically), but also performance can be improved when needed or according to the situation. In other words, the rotational torque of the motor can always be made larger (compared to conventional AC-powered compressors), and the rotational torque can also be temporarily increased when needed or according to the situation.
Generally, as the pressure of the compressed air increases, the load on the motor increases, which in turn reduces the motor's rotational torque and the compressed air discharge rate (L/min). However, by increasing the motor's rotational torque (compared to conventional AC-powered compressors) by taking into account power from the battery, a high rotational speed can be maintained even under high pressure, making it possible to ensure a greater compressed air discharge rate. Therefore, according to the present invention, even though it is an AC-powered compressor, a decrease in motor output is avoided as much as possible, even under high pressure, and a greater discharge rate can be ensured than with conventional devices.
Furthermore, in workplaces prone to power shortages due to a drop in power supply voltage, etc., adding power from the battery can prevent a drop in motor output and increase the pressure in the air tank to the required level, meaning that work using air tools can be continued even in workplaces prone to power shortages.

In the air compressor of the present invention, the power supply control means drives the motor in, for example, one of the following power supply modes.
(1) A first power supply mode (normal power supply mode) in which the motor is driven solely by power from the AC power supply.
(2) A second power supply mode (power-up mode) in which the motor is driven by a combination of power from the AC power supply and power from the battery.
For example, when used under conditions where the performance of a conventional AC-powered air compressor is sufficient, the motor is driven in the "first power supply mode," and when used with an output greater than that of a conventional AC-powered air compressor, the motor is driven in the "second power supply mode."
For example, when the current value of the motor falls below a predetermined value (e.g., 9 A), the motor may be driven by combining power from the AC power supply and power from the battery (first power supply mode). Alternatively, the motor may be driven by combining power from the AC power supply and power from the battery as needed so that the current value of the motor is always maintained at a predetermined value (e.g., 9 A) (switching between the first power supply mode and the second power supply mode).
In this way, by operating the motor in multiple modes, unnecessary battery consumption can be avoided. Also, when the motor is operated by taking into account the power from the battery in addition to the power from the AC power source, the motor can be driven with an output that exceeds that of conventional AC-powered compressors, significantly improving the work efficiency when using air tools.

In the air compressor of the present invention, the power supply control means drives the motor in, for example, any one of the following power supply modes.
(1) A first power supply mode (normal power supply mode) in which the motor is driven solely by power from the AC power supply.
(2) A second power supply mode (power-up mode) in which the motor is driven by a combination of power from the AC power supply and power from the battery.
(3) A third power supply mode (battery mode) in which the motor is driven solely by power from the battery.
For example, when used under conditions where a conventional AC-powered air compressor would suffice in terms of performance, the motor is driven in the "first power supply mode," and when used with an output greater than that of a conventional AC-powered air compressor, the motor is driven in the "second power supply mode." Furthermore, when a power supply is unavailable for various reasons at a site, or when the power supply is temporarily interrupted, the motor is driven in the "third mode."
In this way, by operating the motor in multiple modes, unnecessary battery consumption can be avoided. Furthermore, even in cases where the power supply is cut off due to a breaker tripping caused by insufficient power supply capacity at a site where a power supply is unavailable or when other power tools are used simultaneously, the motor can be driven using power from the built-in battery, making it possible to continue working with air tools for a certain period of time, even at sites with limited power supply facilities. Furthermore, interruptions to work with air tools can be avoided even at sites where the power supply is cut off due to a breaker tripping caused by insufficient power supply capacity.

In the air compressor of the present invention, the power supply control means
(a) Air compressor condition (internal factors of the air compressor),
(b) The power supply status from the AC power source (external factors of the air compressor),
The power supply mode is automatically switched depending on the above.
Examples of the "conditions of the air compressor" include the pressure inside the air tank (pressure of compressed air), the output of the motor, the load on the motor, the current value of the output power of the power supply circuit, and the consumption status of the compressed air stored in the air tank.
"Power supply status from AC power source" includes, for example, situations where the power supply is cut off due to a breaker tripping caused by insufficient power capacity due to the simultaneous use of other electric appliances, or situations where the power supply voltage drops.
In this way, by automatically switching the power supply mode according to various situations, the motor can be driven in the optimal power supply mode according to the situation without the need to go through the trouble of switching modes.

The air compressor of the present invention is also provided with a power mode switching means for manually switching the power mode. This allows the user of the air compressor to switch the power mode at any time they wish. As a result, for example, when operation with an output greater than that of a conventional AC-powered compressor becomes necessary, the user can manually switch the power mode at their discretion.

In addition, in the air compressor of the present invention, the battery is configured to be rechargeable using power supplied from an AC power source. This makes it possible to charge the battery, for example, when the motor is being driven without power supply from the battery (i.e., using a normal AC power source). This eliminates the need to charge the battery.

In addition, in the air compressor of the present invention, the battery is provided so as to be removable.
This allows the battery to be removed from the air compressor when it is low or completely depleted and replaced with a new, charged battery.

Furthermore, in the air compressor of the present invention, the battery is configured to be detachable from the air compressor, and can be charged while removed from the air compressor.
This makes it possible to remove the battery from the air compressor and charge it externally using an adapter or dedicated charger, simplifying the battery charging process.
Furthermore, even when the air compressor is powered, the battery can be charged as needed using an external charger (a device separate from the air compressor). Furthermore, such an external charger can be used to charge multiple batteries in advance, allowing for battery operation in the event of a power outage.

In addition, in the information display method of the present invention,
1) The air compressor transmits, via wireless communication, equipment information relating to the current state of the air compressor to an information display device (portable communication device/portable terminal) carried by a user located away from the air compressor;
2) The information display device displays the equipment information relating to the current state of the air compressor in real time based on the equipment information received from the air compressor.
A specific example of device information displayed in real time on the information display device is the current remaining battery charge (remaining charge of the internal power supply) built into the compressor.
By displaying such equipment information on the information display device in real time, a user who is located far from the air compressor can accurately grasp the current equipment status of the air compressor in real time.
For example, by displaying the remaining battery power in real time on an information display device, it is possible to prevent unexpected battery exhaustion and always be prepared for unexpected situations such as power supply cutoff. In other words, the battery can be reliably used when needed. Also, if it is known that the battery is about to run out, it is possible to replace the battery with a charged one at the appropriate time.

Furthermore, in the information display method of the present invention, the information display device displays support information for supporting the user of the air compressor based on the device information received from the air compressor.
Specific examples of "support information for supporting the user of the air compressor" displayed on the information display device include the predicted time it will take to reach the set pressure value, a warning to charge the battery, and the like.
By displaying such support information on an information display device of a user who is located away from the air compressor, it becomes possible to provide appropriate support to the user who operates and manages the air compressor.

1 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of an air compressor according to the present invention. FIG. 4 is a block diagram schematically showing a state when a motor is driven in a normal power supply mode (first power supply mode). FIG. 10 is a block diagram schematically illustrating a state when the motor is driven in a power-up mode (second power supply mode). FIG. 10 is a block diagram schematically showing a state when the motor is driven in a battery mode (third power supply mode). 1 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic functional configuration of an information display device (portable communication device) that performs wireless communication with an air compressor according to the present invention. 1 is a diagram showing an outline of wireless communication performed between an air compressor and an information display device according to the present invention, and an outline of information displayed on the information display device.

(Air compressor configuration)
An outline of an air compressor according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.
1 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of an air compressor according to the present invention. Hereinafter, the air compressor will be abbreviated to "compressor" as necessary.

The compressor of this embodiment mainly includes:
a compressor 1 having a motor for generating compressed air;
- Equipped with an air tank 3 for storing the generated compressed air.

The air tank 3 is equipped with a pressure sensor 5 that measures the pressure of the compressed air stored therein. The pressure sensor 5 equipped on the air tank 3 is electrically connected to the control circuit 29 of the compression device, which will be described later. The measurement results (measurement values) by the pressure sensor 5 are sent to the control circuit 29 and are used for automatic switching of power supply modes, which will be described later, and various controls of the motor 13.

The compressor 1 is mounted and fixed on top of this air tank 3, covered by a cover. The air tank 3 that supports the compressor 1 generally consists of two cylinders, arranged side by side.

The compressor 1 for generating compressed air mainly comprises:
A motor 13 driven by an external AC power supply 12 (external power supply) as a main power supply;
an air compressor 15 driven by a motor 13 as a power source;
a battery 17 (internal power source) for supplying power to the motor 13;
a drive circuit 19 for driving the motor 13 under control of the control circuit 29;
A detection circuit 21 for detecting the output, load, etc. of the motor 13;
a power supply circuit 23 for generating the required output power from the input power;
An operation unit 25 used for turning the power on/off and switching between various modes, etc.
A display unit 27 for displaying the power ON/OFF status and various mode statuses, etc.
a communication unit 28 for performing wireless communication with an information display device carried by a user;
- It has a control circuit 29 that is responsible for electronic control of each part of the compression device.

The motor 13 is configured to be driven by a general AC power source (i.e., an external power source) such as a household power source or a temporary commercial power source as its main power source. When the motor 13 is driven and its motor shaft rotates, the piston of the air compression section 15 moves back and forth. There are no particular limitations on the type of motor, and a DC brushless motor, for example, can be used.

The air compression unit 15 mainly has a cylinder and a piston that reciprocates relative to the cylinder. During pressurization operation, the piston of the air compression unit 15 reciprocates, compressing the air within the cylinder and generating compressed air. The generated compressed air is sent via a flow path to the air tank 3 and stored there.

The battery 17 is an internal power source equipped in the compressor itself and is electrically connected to the power supply circuit 23. The battery 17 is primarily responsible for supplying power to the motor 13. The battery 17 is configured to be rechargeable using power supplied from the AC power source 12 and is detachable from the compressor. The battery 17 is also configured to be externally rechargeable using an adapter, dedicated charger, etc. when detached from the compressor.

The drive circuit 19 is electrically connected to the control circuit 29, power supply circuit 23, and motor 13. The drive circuit 19 drives the motor 13 based on a control signal from the control circuit 29. Power for driving the motor is supplied from the AC power supply 12 and/or battery 17 via the power supply circuit 23 and drive circuit 19.

The detection circuit 21 is electrically connected to the control circuit 29 and the motor 13, and is responsible for detecting the motor output, the load on the motor, the motor current value, etc. The detection results (detection values) by the detection circuit 21 are sent to the control circuit 29 and are used for automatic switching of the power supply mode (described below) and various controls of the motor 13.

The power supply circuit 23 is electrically connected to the battery 17 and the control circuit 29, and is also electrically connected to the motor 13 via the drive circuit 19. A power cord (not shown) is connected to the power supply circuit 23, and the power plug at the end of the power cord is connected to an external AC power supply 12, thereby electrically connecting the AC power supply to the power supply circuit 23.
The power supply circuit 23 generates output power required to drive the motor 13 from input power from either or both of the AC power supply 12 and the battery 17 .
Specifically, in the normal power supply mode (first power supply mode) described later, the power supply circuit 23 converts the power input from the AC power supply 12 via the power cord into power suitable for driving the motor 13 and outputs it.
In addition, in a power-up mode (second power supply mode) described later, the power supply circuit 23 converts the power input from both the AC power supply 12 and the battery 17 into power suitable for driving the motor 13 and outputs it.
In a battery mode (third power supply mode) described later, the power supply circuit 23 converts the power input from the battery 17 into power suitable for driving the motor 13 and outputs the converted power.
The power output from the power supply circuit 23 is supplied to the motor 13 via the drive circuit 19 .

The operation unit 25 is electrically connected to the control circuit 29. This operation unit 25 is used to turn the power on/off and switch between various modes. In addition to the power on/off switch, this operation unit 25 is also equipped with a switch (power mode switching means) for manually switching the power mode, which will be described later.

The display unit 27 is electrically connected to the control circuit 29. This display unit 27 is provided with information display means such as an LED, which displays the power ON/OFF status and the setting status of various modes.

As shown in Figure 1, the control circuit 29 is electrically connected directly or indirectly to the power supply circuit 23, drive circuit 19, and other components.

In this embodiment, the combination of the control circuit 29, power supply circuit 23, and drive circuit 19 constitutes the "power supply control means 7." The power supply control means 7 controls the power supply from the AC power supply 12 to the motor 13 and the power supply from the battery 17 to the motor 13.

Specifically, one of the functions of the power supply control means 7 is to drive the motor 13 in one of the following power supply modes (1), (2), and (3).
(1) A normal power supply mode (first power supply mode) in which the motor 13 is driven only by power from the AC power supply 12.
(2) A power-up mode (second power supply mode) in which the motor 13 is driven by power from the AC power supply 12 and power from the battery 17.
(3) A battery mode (third power supply mode) in which the motor 13 is driven solely by power from the battery 17.

In addition, the power supply control means 7
(a) Compressor condition (internal factors of the compressor),
(b) Power supply status from AC power source (factor external to the compressor),
The power supply mode is automatically switched depending on the power supply mode.

In this embodiment, as mentioned above, the operation unit 25 is equipped with a selector switch (power mode switching means), and the compressor user can use this selector switch to manually switch the power mode at any time.

Under the control of the control circuit 29, the communication unit 28 sends and receives various signals to and from information display devices within its communication range. The communication unit 28 is configured, for example, as a wireless communication module. The compressor and information display device are wirelessly connected to each other via this communication unit 28.

(Configuration of information display device)
In this embodiment, a portable communication device is exemplified as a specific example of an information display device.

Figure 5 shows an outline of the functional configuration of the information display device used in this embodiment. This information display device is a portable communication device (mobile terminal) that is sized and shaped to be portable. A typical example of a person who would carry an information display device is an air tool user (a worker who uses an air tool connected to a compressor via an air hose).

As shown in FIG. 5, the information display device includes:
A display unit 51 including a liquid crystal display, an LED, etc.
A communication unit 53 for wirelessly communicating with the security device of the compressor;
A speaker 55 capable of outputting sound information such as warning sounds and voice guidance;
The control unit 57 includes circuits for controlling the above-mentioned components.

The display unit 51, which consists of an LCD display, LEDs, etc., is responsible for displaying information about the current status of the compressor and information to support the compressor user.

Under the control of the control unit 57, the communication unit 53 transmits and receives various signals to and from the communication unit 28 of the compressor. The communication unit 53 is configured, for example, as a wireless communication module. The information display device and the compressor are wirelessly connected to each other via this communication unit 53. Furthermore, by equipping the information display device with such a communication unit 53, it is possible to have the information display device function as a "remote controller" for remote operation.

There are no particular limitations on the wireless communication method used between the compressor and the information display device, and specific examples include short-range wireless communication standards such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) and wireless LANs such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark).

The control unit 57 is responsible for controlling each component of the information display device.

Specific examples of information display devices include portable remote controller-type communication devices (wireless communication devices/remote controls) and portable information terminals carried by compressor users, etc. Examples of the latter portable information terminals include wireless communication devices such as smartphones, mobile phones, tablet devices, smart watches, and wearable computers.

By registering its own ID information in advance in the compressor's memory (i.e., pairing), the information display device configured as described above can receive device information, etc., described below, from the compressor via wireless communication.

Next, we will explain in detail each power mode for the compressor.

(Driving in normal power supply mode/first power supply mode)
FIG. 2 shows a schematic diagram of the state when the motor 13 is driven in the normal power supply mode (first power supply mode).

In the normal power supply mode, the motor 13 is driven only by the power from the AC power supply 12 .
Therefore, in the case of this embodiment, the performance of the compressor in the normal power supply mode is no different from that of a conventional AC power supply type compressor.

In addition, in normal power supply mode, if the battery 17 needs to be charged (if it is in a chargeable state), the battery is charged via the power supply circuit 23 using power from the AC power supply 12.

As will be described later, when the compressor begins operating in normal power mode (first power mode), device information informing this fact can be sent from the compressor to the information display device, and the information display device can display information indicating that the compressor is operating in normal power mode (first power mode). In other words, the compressor user (the user who owns the information display device) can accurately grasp the compressor's current power mode in real time, even if they are located far away from the compressor.

In addition, when switching from another power supply mode to normal power supply mode (first power supply mode), device information regarding this fact can be sent from the compressor to the information display device, and an alarm sound or other notification can be output from the speaker on the information display device.

(Power-up mode/driving in second power supply mode)
FIG. 3 shows a schematic diagram of the state when the motor 13 is driven in the power-up mode (second power supply mode).

In power-up mode, the power supply circuit 23 combines the power from the AC power supply 12 and the power from the battery 17 (i.e., the power from the battery 17 is added to the power from the AC power supply 12), and the motor 13 is driven by this combined power.

Generally, as the pressure of the compressed air increases, the load on the motor increases, which in turn reduces the motor's rotational torque and the amount of compressed air discharged (L/min). However, by taking into account the power from the battery 17 and increasing the rotational torque of the motor 13 (compared to conventional AC-powered compressors), a high rotational speed can be maintained even under high pressure, making it possible to ensure a greater amount of compressed air discharged.
Therefore, by driving the motor 13 in the power-up mode as in this embodiment, a drop in motor output can be avoided as much as possible even under high pressure, and a larger discharge amount can be ensured than in conventional devices.

As will be described later, when the compressor begins operating in power-up mode (second power mode), device information informing the user of this fact can be sent from the compressor to the information display device, which can then display information indicating that the compressor is operating in power-up mode (second power mode). In other words, the compressor user (the user who owns the information display device) can accurately grasp the compressor's current power mode in real time, even if they are located far away from the compressor.

In addition, when switching from another power mode to power-up mode (second power mode), device information regarding this fact can be sent from the compressor to the information display device, and an alarm sound or other notification can be output from the speaker on the information display device.

(Battery mode/operation in third power mode)
FIG. 4 shows a schematic diagram of the state when the motor 13 is driven in the battery mode (third power supply mode).

In battery mode, the motor 13 is driven using power from the internal power source, the battery 17, regardless of whether or not there is an electrical connection to the AC power source 12.

By driving the motor 13 in battery mode, it becomes possible to continue work using air tools for a certain period of time, even at work sites with limited power supply facilities. It also prevents interruptions to work using air tools at work sites where the power supply is cut off due to a breaker tripping caused by insufficient power capacity.

As will be described later, when the compressor begins operating in battery mode (third power supply mode), device information informing the user of this fact can be sent from the compressor to the information display device, which can then display information indicating that the compressor is operating in battery mode (third power supply mode). In other words, the compressor user (the user who owns the information display device) can accurately grasp the compressor's current power supply mode in real time, even if they are located far away from the compressor.

In addition, when switching from another power supply mode to battery mode (third power supply mode), device information regarding this fact can be sent from the compressor to the information display device, and an alarm sound or other notification can be output from the speaker on the information display device.

(Switching power modes)
Next, a method for automatically switching between the above-mentioned power modes (normal power mode, power-up mode, battery mode) will be described.

The power supply mode is automatically switched by the power supply control means 7 based on certain criteria (such as predetermined reference values). Specifically, the control circuit 29 monitors the compressor status (internal factors) and the power supply status from the AC power source (external factors), and the power supply control means 7 automatically switches the power supply mode in response to changes in these conditions.

"Compressor status" includes, for example, the pressure inside the air tank (compressed air pressure), the output of the motor 13, the load on the motor, the motor current value, and the compressed air consumption status.

"Power supply conditions from an AC power source" includes, for example, situations where the power supply is cut off due to a breaker tripping caused by insufficient power capacity, such as when other powered appliances are used at the same time, or situations where the power supply voltage drops.

For example, an embodiment in which the power supply mode is automatically switched depending on the pressure (compressed air pressure) in the air tank 3 will be described.
In this embodiment, when the compressor is operating in the normal power supply mode, if the control circuit 29 determines that a predetermined pressure has been exceeded based on the signal (pressure value) received from the pressure sensor 5, the power supply control means 7 automatically switches the compressor's power supply mode from the "normal power supply mode" to the "power-up mode."
On the other hand, when the control circuit 29 determines that the pressure has fallen below a predetermined value while the compressor is operating in the power-up mode, the power control means 7 switches the compressor's power mode from the "power-up mode" to the "normal power mode."

Next, an embodiment in which the power supply mode is automatically switched depending on the output of the motor 13 and the pressure in the air tank 3 (pressure of compressed air), for example, will be described.
In this embodiment, when the compressor is operating in the normal power supply mode, if the control circuit 29 determines that the motor output has fallen below a predetermined level based on the signal (motor output) received from the detection circuit 21, the power supply control means 7 automatically switches the compressor power supply mode from the "normal power supply mode" to the "power-up mode."
On the other hand, when operating in power-up mode, if the control circuit 29 determines that the pressure in the air tank 3 has exceeded a predetermined pressure based on the signal (pressure value) received from the pressure sensor 5, the power control means 7 switches the compressor's power mode from "power-up mode" to "normal power mode."

Next, an embodiment in which the power supply mode is automatically switched in accordance with the current value of the motor, for example, will be described.
In this embodiment, the control circuit 29 constantly monitors the detected value (current value) from the detection circuit 21, and the power supply control means 7 automatically switches the power supply mode between the "normal power supply mode" and the "power-up mode" so that the current value of the motor 13 is always maintained at a predetermined value (e.g., 9 A).

Next, an embodiment in which the power supply mode is automatically switched depending on the power supply status from the AC power supply 12 will be described.
In this embodiment, when the compressor is operating in the normal power mode or the power-up mode, if the control circuit 29 determines, based on a signal received from the power supply circuit 23, that the external power supply has been cut off or that the voltage has fallen below a predetermined value, the power supply control means 7 automatically switches the compressor's power supply mode from the "normal power mode" or the "power-up mode" to the "battery mode."
On the other hand, when the compressor is operating in battery mode, if the control circuit 29 determines that the external power supply has been restored or has exceeded a predetermined voltage value, the power supply control means 7 switches the compressor's power supply mode from "battery mode" to "normal power supply mode" or "power-up mode."

In this way, the compressor of this embodiment can automatically switch power modes depending on various conditions of the compressor (internal factors) and the power supply status from the AC power source (external factors).

Note that switching the compressor's power mode is not necessarily limited to automatic control, and it is also possible to manually switch at any time using the selector switch (power mode switching means) provided on the operation unit 25.

(Information display method)
Next, an information display method using wireless communication between the compressor and the information display device will be described.

Figure 6 shows an overview of the information sent from the compressor to the information display device and the information displayed on the information display device. A detailed explanation will be provided below based on Figures 1, 5, and 6.

In this embodiment, the compressor's communication unit 28 transmits equipment information regarding the current state of the compressor via wireless communication to an information display device carried by a user located away from the compressor.

The information display device is carried by a user of an air tool (a worker who uses an air tool connected to a compressor via an air hose). Note that, in this application, a user of an air tool is also a user of a compressor.

Information is sent from the compressor to the information display device, for example, whenever the current status of the compressor (e.g., power mode, remaining battery charge, pressure value, etc.) changes. In other words, the information display device receives equipment information from the compressor every time the equipment information regarding the current status of the compressor is updated.

The information display device, located at a location remote from the compressor, receives equipment information from the compressor via the communication unit 28, and then displays equipment information related to the current state of the compressor on the display unit 51 in real time based on the received information. In other words, the information displayed on the information display device is information related to the current state of the compressor.

Specific examples of device information displayed in real time on the display unit 51 of the information display device include the following:
1) The current remaining battery power of the compressor (remaining internal power supply).
2) The current pressure value measured by the compressor's pressure sensor (the pressure value in the air tank that has been reached since the compressor started up to the present). In other words, the pressure value of the compressed air that can currently be output.
3) Information indicating whether the compressor is currently being powered by an external power source or a battery.
4) Information informing you that the external power supply has been cut off.
5) Information indicating that the external power supply has been cut off and the device is running on battery power.
6) Information indicating the current power mode of the compressor.

In addition, the control circuit 29 can detect the remaining battery charge, the fact that the external power supply has been cut off, and the fact that the external power supply has been cut off and the unit is running on battery power, based on signals from the power supply circuit 23. The detected information is sent from the compressor to the information display device as current equipment information.

By displaying this equipment information in real time on the information display device, users who are located far from the compressor can accurately grasp the details of the compressor's current equipment status in real time.

For example, by displaying the remaining battery charge of the compressor in real time on the information display device, it is possible to prevent the battery from running out unexpectedly and always be prepared for unexpected situations such as a power outage from the AC power source 12. In other words, it is possible to prevent the battery from being left running out and ensure that the battery 17 will function when needed. Furthermore, if the user sees the device information displayed in real time on the information display device and realizes that the battery is about to run out, they can replace the battery 17 with a charged one at the appropriate time.
Furthermore, for example, by displaying the current pressure value measured by the pressure sensor 5 (the pressure value of the compressed air that has reached since startup up to the present), the increase in pressure value on the compressor side can be visually confirmed in real time, thereby allowing the operator to prepare for work using air tools.
Furthermore, by displaying in real time information such as "Which power source is the compressor currently using to power itself, the AC power source 12 or the battery 17?" or "The AC power source 12 has been cut off and the compressor is now powered by the battery 17," it becomes possible to quickly grasp the fact that the external power source has been cut off, and, if necessary, to quickly proceed with work to restore the power. Furthermore, it is possible to prevent a situation in which the battery continues to drain without knowing that the external power source has been cut off (i.e., without knowing that the compressor has switched to battery power) and the battery runs out without being noticed.

In the normal power mode (first power mode) described above, power for wireless communication from the compressor to the information display device is supplied from the AC power source 12. In the battery mode (third power mode) described above, power for wireless communication from the compressor to the information display device is supplied from the battery 17.

The compressor can also be equipped with a wireless communication battery, such as a button cell, separate from battery 17. By providing such a wireless communication battery, even if the battery runs out in battery mode (third power supply mode), the wireless communication battery can be used to notify the information display device of the dead battery. The user can then learn of this through the information display device and quickly replace the battery with a charged one or proceed with tasks such as restoring a cut-off external power source.

The information display method of the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment. For example, the information display device can also display support information to assist the compressor user based on the equipment information received from the compressor.

Specific examples of "support information to assist compressor users" displayed on the information display device include the following:

1) When the "current pressure value measured by pressure sensor 5" (the compressed air pressure value reached since startup) is received from the compressor, the estimated time to reach the set pressure value is displayed.
2) When the "current pressure value measured by pressure sensor 5" (the compressed air pressure value reached since startup to the present) is received from the compressor, and the pressure value reaches the set value, information informing that the set pressure has been reached is displayed on the information display device.
3) When device information regarding the "remaining battery capacity" is received from the compressor and the remaining capacity is below a predetermined value (predetermined reference value), a warning urging the user to charge the battery 17 is displayed on the information display device.
4) When the compressor is driven by the AC power supply 12 and device information notifying that the battery is dead is received from the compressor, a warning notifying that the battery is dead is displayed on the information display device.

By displaying this type of support information on the information display device of a user who is located far from the compressor, it becomes possible to provide appropriate support to the user who is located far from the compressor. In other words, by viewing this support information and understanding the current situation, a user who is located far from the compressor can take appropriate action or measures depending on the current situation, for example, before a fatal situation occurs (or before the situation worsens).

In addition to displaying the information described above, it is also possible to output sound information such as alarm sounds, warning sounds, and audio guidance to the user from the speaker 55 of the information display device.

Specific examples of sound information output from the speaker 55 of the information display device include the following.
1) Warning sounds and voice guidance to notify you when the battery is low.
2) Warning sounds and voice guidance to encourage battery charging.
3) A warning sound or voice guidance to notify that the AC power supply 12 has been cut off.
4) A warning sound or voice guidance to notify that the device has started to run on power from the battery 17 (i.e., in battery mode).
5) An alarm sound or voice guidance will notify you when the set pressure has been reached.
6) An alarm sound or voice guidance will notify you when the power mode has been switched.

(Other embodiments and modifications)
The above-described embodiment is an example of an embodiment of the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to this. In other words, various embodiments and modifications can be adopted within the scope of the claims.

1 Compressor 3 Air tank 5 Pressure sensor 7 Power supply control means 12 AC power supply (AC power supply/external power supply)
13 Motor 15 Air compressor 17 Battery (internal power source)
19 Drive circuit 21 Detection circuit 23 Power supply circuit 25 Operation unit 27 Display unit 28 Communication unit 29 Control circuit 31 Flow path 51 Display unit 53 Communication unit 55 Speaker 57 Control unit

Claims (17)

An air compressor including a compressor having a motor for generating compressed air for an air tool and an air tank for storing the compressed air,
A motor;
a battery for powering the motor;
a power supply control means for controlling the power supply from the AC power supply to the motor and the power supply from the battery to the motor,
The power supply control means
(1) a first power supply mode in which the motor is driven by power from the AC power supply;
(2) a second power supply mode in which the motor is driven by power from the AC power supply and power from the battery;
The motor is driven in one of the power supply modes,
The air compressor , wherein the rotational torque of the motor in the second power supply mode is greater than the rotational torque of the motor in the first power supply mode . The power supply control means automatically switches the power supply mode.
2. The air compressor according to claim 1 . The power supply control means
(a) Air compressor condition,
(b) the status of the power supply from said AC power source;
3. The air compressor according to claim 1 , wherein the power supply mode is switched in accordance with any one of the following conditions: When the power supply mode is switched depending on the status of the air compressor,
The power supply control means
(c) the pressure in said air tank;
(d) the consumption of compressed air in said air tank;
(e) the power output of said motor;
(f) a load on said motor;
(g) the current value of the motor;
(h) the output power of the air compressor power circuit;
4. The air compressor according to claim 3 , wherein the power supply mode is switched in accordance with any one of the following: When the power supply mode is switched depending on the status of the air compressor,
4. The air compressor according to claim 3 , wherein the power supply control means switches from the first power supply mode to the second power supply mode when the pressure in the air tank exceeds a predetermined pressure. When the power supply mode is switched depending on the status of the air compressor,
4. The air compressor according to claim 3 , wherein the power supply control means switches from the second power supply mode to the first power supply mode when the pressure in the air tank falls below a predetermined pressure. When the power supply mode is switched depending on the status of the air compressor,
4. The air compressor according to claim 3 , wherein the power supply control means switches from the first power supply mode to the second power supply mode when the output of the motor falls below a predetermined output. When the power supply mode is switched depending on the status of the air compressor,
4. The air compressor according to claim 3 , wherein the power supply control means switches from the second power supply mode to the first power supply mode when the pressure in the air tank exceeds a predetermined pressure. When the power supply mode is switched depending on the status of the air compressor,
4. The air compressor according to claim 3 , wherein the power supply control means switches the power supply mode between the first power supply mode and the second power supply mode so that a current value of the motor is maintained at a predetermined value. 10. The air compressor according to claim 1 , further comprising a power supply mode switching means for manually switching the power supply mode. 11. The air compressor according to claim 1 , wherein the battery is configured to be rechargeable by power supplied from the AC power supply. 12. The air compressor according to claim 1 , wherein the battery is detachably provided. 13. The air compressor according to claim 1 , wherein the battery is detachable from the air compressor and configured to be able to supply power from an external source when the battery is removed from the air compressor. The air compressor further includes a communication unit for transmitting information by wireless communication to an information display device carried by a user who is located away from the air compressor,
14. The air compressor according to claim 1, wherein the power supply control means acquires information indicating the remaining charge of the battery and transmits the information indicating the remaining charge of the battery to an information display device via a communication unit. 15. A method for displaying information about an air compressor using the air compressor according to claim 14 and an information display device that performs wireless communication with the air compressor, comprising:
a step of transmitting information indicating a remaining battery charge by wireless communication from the air compressor to an information display device carried by a user located at a distance from the air compressor;
a step of displaying information indicating a remaining amount of battery power on the information display device based on information received from the air compressor;
2. A method for displaying information about an air compressor, comprising: 16. The method for displaying information about an air compressor according to claim 15 , wherein the information display device displays a warning urging the user to charge the battery based on the information received from the air compressor. 16. The method for displaying information about an air compressor according to claim 15 , wherein the information display device displays a warning indicating that the battery is dead based on the information received from the air compressor.