One-handed operation of a handheld field maintenance tool

• US 20040227723A1
• Filed: 05/16/2003
• Published: 11/18/2004
• Est. Priority Date: 05/16/2003
• Status: Active Grant

• Current Assignee: Fisher-Rosemount Systems Incorporated (Emerson Electric Company)
• Original Assignee: Fisher-Rosemount Systems Incorporated (Emerson Electric Company)
• Inventors: Russell, Alden C. III, Mathiowetz, Brad N.
• Granted Patent: US 7,199,784 B2
• Time in Patent Office: Days
• US Class Current: 345/156
• CPC Class Codes: G05B 19/409 characterised by using manual data input [MDI] or by using control panel, e.g. controlling functions with the panel; characterised by control panel details or by setting parameters G05B19/408, G05B19/4093 take precedence
• CPC Class Codes: G05B 2219/36159 Detachable or portable programming unit, display, pc, pda

Abstract

A handheld field maintenance tool is provided with features that improve one-handed operation. In one aspect, the tool includes a side strap to allow a technician to exert additional leverage on the tool during one-handed operation. Another aspect includes providing a recess on the rear of the tool'"'"'s handle to allow a firm finger-hold.

Claims

1. A handheld field maintenance tool comprising:

a display; and

a handle coupled to the display and having a recess in a rear portion thereof such that when a user grips the tool with a single hand, the recess is configured to receive the user'"'"'s finger to facilitate gripping of the tool.

2. The tool of claim 1, and further comprising a keypad mounted on the handle and sized to be usable with a thumb of a user the handle is held with a single hand.

3. The tool of claim 1, wherein the tool has a weight that is less than about one kilogram.

4. The tool of claim 1, wherein the tool has a center of gravity to balance upon a technician'"'"'s hand.

5. The tool of claim 1, wherein the center of gravity is centered with respect to a longitudinal axis of the tool.

6. The tool of claim 1, and further comprising a plurality of grooves in the handle to improve gripping of by a user'"'"'s hand.

7. The tool of claim 1, and further comprising a strap disposed on the side of the handle.

8. The tool of claim 1, and further comprising a radius section adjacent the display and handle to facilitate gripping by the hand of a user.

9. The tool of claim 1, wherein the handle includes edge portions for engagement with a user'"'"'s hand wherein the edge portions constitute radius portions to facilitate gripping by the user.