a power cord for power tools

The motor is electrically connected to an electrical power source by a power cord. Typically, the power cord is directly wired to the electrical circuit of the motor, such as to the on/off switch, and is non-removably fixed to the housing or handle of the power tool.

One problem with the above-described power tool is that, if the power cord is damaged or accidentally severed during cutting operations, a cord must be rewired to the electrical circuit. In order to rewire the new cord, the handle of the power tool is disassembled and the new cord is directly wired to the on/off switch. Alternatively, if a sufficient length of the damaged cord is still connected to the power tool, a new plug is rewired to the severed end of the cord. In either case, rewiring of the power cord is time consuming and inconvenient. Also, suitable cords and plugs may not be readily available at a work site for replacement of or attachment to the damaged cord.

The locking assembly includes a first locking member supported by one of the housing and the cord and a second locking member supported by one of the housing and the cord. The first locking member is movable between a locking position, in which the first locking member and the second locking member are engaged, and an unlocked position, in which the first locking member and the second locking member are disengaged.

The present invention provides a power cord for a power tool that alleviates the problems with the above-described power tools. The invention provides a power cord that is removable and replaceable. Also, the present invention provides a power cord that can be positively locked to the housing of the power tool to prevent the power cord from being inadvertently disconnected from the electrical circuit and from the housing of the power tool.

The first locking member includes a locking projection, and the second locking member is a recess engageable by the locking projection in the locking position. Preferably, the locking member is slidable generally parallel to the axis of the member on which it is supported between the locking position and the unlocked position.

The first locking member is preferably supported on the support portion, and the second locking member is preferably supported on the mounting portion. In an alternative construction, both locking members of the locking assembly are supported on the cord. In the alternative construction, the first locking member is supported on the mounting portion, and the second locking member is supported on the cord electrical connector housing.

Another advantage of the present invention is that the power cord is positively locked to the housing to ensure that the cord is electrically connected to the circuit and to ensure that that cord is physically connected to the housing. Also, in order to remove the cord, the operator must perform two separate and distinct motions. The first locking member must be moved to the unlocked position, and the mounting portion must then be rotated relative to the housing to disengage the threads.