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Apparatus and method for detecting dangerous conditions in power equipment

  • US 7,231,856 B2
  • Filed: 06/13/2002
  • Issued: 06/19/2007
  • Est. Priority Date: 06/13/2001
  • Status: Expired due to Term
First Claim
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1. A machine comprising:

  • an operative structure configured to perform a task;

    a cutting tool forming part of the operative structure, where the cutting tool is adapted to move in at least one motion;

    at least one motor configured to move the cutting tool, where the motor has a drive shaft;

    a detection system adapted to detect the occurrence of an unsafe condition between a person and the cutting tool, where the detection system is adapted to impart an electrical signal on the cutting tool and to monitor that signal for changes indicative of the unsafe condition;

    a reaction system adapted to mitigate the unsafe condition upon the detection of the unsafe condition by the detection system; and

    a direct drive system interconnecting the at least one motor and the cutting tool, where the direct drive system is configured so that the motor drives the cutting tool without a belt, where the direct drive system includes an arbor separate from the drive shaft and a substantially non-conductive coupling between the arbor and the drive shaft, and where the arbor is electrically isolated form the drive shaft.

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