HK1163601B - Powered utility knife - Google Patents

Description

Power multipurpose knife

The invention relates to a divisional application of an invention patent application named as a power multipurpose knife, which is provided with the Chinese application number of 200580038573.2 (international application number of PCT/US2005/032562) and the international application date of 9, 12 and 2005.

This application claims priority from U.S. provisional patent application No.60/609,781 (now pending) filed on 9/14/2004 and U.S. provisional patent application No.60/616,698 (now pending) filed on 10/7/2004. Both of these applications are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

Technical Field

The present invention relates to powered utility knives (powered utility knife).

Background

Conventional manual utility knives generally include: an axially elongated housing or shell which can serve as a handle; a tool holder movably mounted in the housing; and a blade mounted on the blade holder. The blade carrier may be secured relative to the blade body by a spring biased tab that may be released to move the blade carrier to extend the blade from the housing (e.g., for cutting) and retract the blade into the housing (e.g., for safe storage). To replace the blade, the housing is typically removable to allow the blade to be removed from the cartridge. A replacement blade is mounted on the blade carrier and the housing of the utility knife is then reassembled, wherein the replacement blade can be stored in an internal cavity in a handle provided for this purpose.

Disclosure of Invention

The invention provides a power multipurpose knife.

The invention can be implemented to achieve one or more of the following advantages.

The utility knife of the present invention has the advantage of being electrically powered, which allows the blade to be rapidly shuttled back and forth to more effectively cut a variety of materials that are typically cut with a manual utility knife. In addition, the power feature also allows the utility knife to cut materials that the manual utility knife was not capable of cutting before.

The motor of the disclosed utility knife may be powered by a combination of, for example, rechargeable or replaceable batteries, or by a cable connection. The battery or battery compartment may be recharged when engaged with the knife housing, or may be removable for recharging when another optional battery compartment is engaged for use.

In one embodiment, the blade of the disclosed utility knife may be extended out of the utility knife housing and locked in one of a plurality of cutting positions. The blade may also be retracted to fully accommodate the blade within the utility knife housing for safe operation of the utility knife without risk of cutting the user. The extension and retraction of the blade may be accomplished by moving an automatic locking actuator axially forward or backward, the actuator being located at the top of the utility knife housing.

Some of the disclosed utility knives have a blade-changing door so that the blade can be quickly changed. The power is turned on only when the user presses the power switch, or when a safety limit switch or other safety disconnect circuit contained within the utility knife is not activated, thereby providing a number of concurrent safety features.

The power feature enables the utility knife to cut a wider variety of materials, including materials that cannot be cut with a manual utility knife. Various blades having different cutting edges may also be designed for use with the utility knife to provide other advantages of the power feature.

In further embodiments, the powered utility knife of the present invention has various features as described above; however, it is also possible to fixedly mount the non-retractable blade so as to protrude to the end of the housing. This utility knife embodiment also has a number of concurrent safety features to prevent inadvertent activation of the power source during blade replacement.

In further embodiments, the utility knife is disclosed having a blade powered by a vibrating motor. The multi-purpose tool has many of the features of the embodiments described above. The non-retractable blade is fixedly mounted so as to extend to the end of the housing. A vibration motor, secured to a stationary motor plate by a motor carriage assembly, vibrates the extended blade in an efficient cutting manner.

In yet another embodiment, the utility knife is disclosed as including a retractable motor plate and a vibration motor. The retractable motor plate enables the blade to be manually retracted or extended relative to the utility knife housing. When the blade is extended, the vibrating motor, which is secured to the motor plate by a motor bracket assembly, causes the blade to vibrate in an efficient cutting manner.

The utility knife described herein also allows the blade to be flipped so that the blade leading and trailing portions of a single blade can be used.

Drawings

Fig. 1 and 2 are top and side views, respectively, of the powered utility knife of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a side view of the drive worm gear and driven gear assembly for the powered utility knife of the present invention.

Figures 4 and 5 are side sectional views of the blade of the powered utility knife of figure 1 in a retracted position and in an extended position, respectively.

Figures 6 and 7 are top cross-sectional views of the blade of the powered utility knife of figure 1 in a retracted position (as shown in figure 4) and in an extended position (as shown in figure 5), respectively.

Fig. 8 and 9 are end and side cross-sectional views, respectively, of yet another embodiment of the powered utility knife of the present invention with a sliding electrical connection between a contact mounted on the shuttle plate and a contact mounted on the utility knife housing.

FIG. 10 is a partial side view of the powered utility knife of FIG. 1 with the utility knife door removed and the utility knife blade fully disposed in the door opening for removal.

Fig. 11 is an end sectional view of a powered utility knife with a retractable shuttle plate of the present invention.

Figures 12 and 13 are partial side sectional views of the powered utility knife showing the blade carrier of the utility knife moved to its maximum forward shuttle stroke position and the blade carrier of the utility knife moved to its rearward shuttle stroke position, respectively.

Figure 14 is a partial side sectional view of the powered utility knife of figures 12 and 13 with the blade of the utility knife mounted to the blade carrier of the utility knife.

FIGS. 15 and 16 are exterior and interior plan views, respectively, of the door of the powered utility knife of the present invention; and figure 17 is an end sectional view of the door of the powered utility knife taken along line 17-17 of figure 16.

Fig. 18 and 19 are partial side sectional views of the powered utility knife of the present invention, showing the first safety limit switch open to interrupt power due to retraction of the shuttle plate, and the first safety limit switch closed to allow power to be turned on due to extension of the shuttle plate, respectively.

FIG. 20 is a partial side view of the powered utility knife of FIG. 2, partially showing a door of the utility knife; and figures 21 and 22 are end sectional views taken along line a-a of figure 20, respectively showing the utility knife door in a closed position and the utility knife door in an open position.

Figures 23 and 24 are partial side views of the inner wall of the powered utility knife of figure 2 showing portions of the door aperture of the utility knife with the door removed and in place, respectively.

FIGS. 25, 26, and 27 are top, side, and end views, respectively, of an actuator for the powered utility knife of the present invention.

Fig. 28 and 30 are side cross-sectional views of the actuator for the powered utility knife of the present invention taken along line J-J of fig. 25, shown in a locked mode and in an unlocked mode, respectively.

Fig. 29 and 31 are end sectional views of the actuator for the powered utility knife of the present invention taken along line K-K in fig. 25, shown in a locked mode (as shown in fig. 28) and an unlocked mode (as shown in fig. 30), respectively.

FIG. 32 is a top cross-sectional view of an actuator for the powered utility knife of the present invention.

Fig. 33 and 34 are side views of the rear end of the powered utility knife of the present invention showing the removable battery compartment engaged with the housing and the battery compartment disengaged from the housing, respectively.

Fig. 35-40 are side plan views of various embodiments of a utility blade configuration for use with the powered utility knife of the present invention.

FIG. 41 is a side view of the powered utility knife of the present invention with a fixed (non-retractable) blade carrier and blade.

FIG. 42 is a side cross-sectional view of the powered utility knife of FIG. 41 with a fixed (non-retractable) blade.

Figures 43 and 44 are top cross-sectional views of the powered utility knife of figure 41, illustrating the blade release button depressed and the blade release button returned to the normal operating position, respectively.

Figures 45 and 46 are end sectional views of the powered utility knife of figure 41, showing the blade release button depressed (as shown in figure 43) and the blade release button returned to the normal operating position (as shown in figure 44), respectively.

Fig. 47-53 are side plan views of other embodiments of a utility blade configuration for use with the powered utility knife of the present invention.

Fig. 54-57 are side plan views of still other embodiments of a utility blade configuration for use with the powered utility knife of the present invention.

Figures 54A-57A are side plan views of embodiments of the blade carriers of the utility knife of the present invention, respectively, for receiving blades of a utility knife having the configuration shown in figures 54-57.

FIG. 58 is a side cross-sectional view of yet another embodiment of the powered utility knife of the present invention wherein the stationary (non-retractable) blade is driven in a vibratory cutting action; and figures 59 and 60 are end sectional views of the blade support locking the blade of the utility knife in place and the blade support in position for removal of the blade, respectively.

FIGS. 61 and 62 are side cross-sectional views of yet another embodiment of the powered utility knife of the present invention, wherein the movable (retractable) blade is driven in a vibratory cutting action, and showing the blade retracted (as shown in FIG. 61) and extended (as shown in FIG. 62), respectively; and FIG. 63 is an end sectional view of the retractable blade mechanism.

FIG. 64 is a side view of a motor assembly for the powered utility knife of the present invention, and FIG. 65 is a top view of the motor assembly of FIG. 64.

Fig. 66 and 67 are side and top views, respectively, of a bevel gear drive assembly for the powered utility knife of the present invention.

Figures 68 and 69 are side cross-sectional views of the powered utility knife of the present invention provided with a bevel gear drive assembly and a retractable utility knife blade, showing the blade in a retracted position and an extended position, respectively.

FIG. 70 is a side cross-sectional view of the powered utility knife of the present invention provided with a bevel gear drive assembly and a blade to which the utility knife is secured.

FIG. 71 is a side view and FIG. 72 is a top view of a variable length cutting stroke assembly for the powered utility knife of the present invention.

Fig. 73 and 74 are side views of the powered utility knife of the present invention with a bracket attachment provided for stabilizing and/or straightening the blade of the utility knife during use.

Like reference numbers and designations in the various drawings indicate like elements.

Detailed Description

Referring to fig. 1 and 2, one embodiment of the powered utility knife 1000 of the present invention has an external structure that includes an actuator 1 that extends and locks the blade 38 of the utility knife used for cutting in one or more positions extending from the utility knife housing or case 53. The actuator 1 may also axially retract the blade 38 into the housing 53 for safety purposes and to facilitate blade replacement. The housing of the utility knife is ergonomically designed to provide leverage when a user applies cutting pressure. The power switch 10 is ergonomically arranged to initiate the cutting motion of the blade when a user applies cutting pressure and to hold the power switch in an on position. The power switch 10 is activated only when pressure is applied by the user's finger. Upon release of the power switch 10, power to the utility knife is stopped. The utility knife housing has a door 5 to facilitate blade replacement. In one particular embodiment (described in more detail below), the utility knife is powered by a battery, which may be rechargeable and/or replaceable. In other embodiments, the utility knife is powered by an external power cord and/or by a combination of batteries and an external power source.

The trigger 80 is depressed to unlock the actuator 1, which is moved axially along the housing of the utility knife. When the trigger is released, the actuator returns to the locked position. The actuator is connected to the retractable shuttle plate 19 within the utility knife housing and travels in the actuator slot 94. Forward movement of the actuator (toward end 110) manually moves retractable shuttle plate 19 axially forward to extend blade 38 to the desired cutting position. When the actuator 1 is moved towards the rearward position, the blade 38 is retracted. In the most rearward position of the actuator, the blade is fully retracted within the utility knife housing 53.

The housing of the utility knife is formed by a utility knife housing left portion 2 and a utility knife housing right portion 3, which are connected together by housing fasteners, such as screws (not shown). The spring loaded door 5, e.g. for blade replacement, is opened by applying a downward pressure to the release lock 6. Depressing and holding the spring-loaded power switch 10 inward powers the utility knife, and releasing the power switch stops the power to the utility knife.

Referring to fig. 3, the utility knife has a drive system including a motor 12, a bearing assembly 14, a worm gear 16, a shuttle cam 36, and a cam arm 18, which allows the blade to be rapidly shuttled back and forth for power cutting.

When the actuator 1 is moved rearwardly, the blade 38 retracts into the utility knife housing, as shown in FIG. 4

And is securely locked. The left part 2 of the housing is shown with a retractable shuttle plate 19,

the retractable shuttle 19 is manually retracted by the actuator 1 to the rear of its range of travel, causing the knife to move

The tab 38 is fully retracted within the housing.

The power switch 10 is mounted to the post 33. When activated by a user pressing and holding the spring-loaded power switch inward, the battery 7 supplies power to the drive system. The motor 12 is mounted to a retractable shuttle plate 19 by a motor bracket 13. Bearing assembly 14 is a component of retractable shuttle plate 19. Cam post 28, which is attached to tool holder 32 (to which blade 38 is mounted), defines cam arm attachment aperture 37.

The battery contact 8 transfers electrical energy (e.g., from a battery) via electrical wires to the switch 10, the motor 12, the limit switch 11, and the power contact 90 of the safety switch mounted on the door 5. Limit switch 11 is a safety device that interrupts the electrical circuit when retractable shuttle plate 19 is manually retracted (as shown). The blade 38 can then be inserted or removed without activating the power supply, providing safety protection even if the power switch 10 is inadvertently pressed to the "on" position. Other safety devices that may be incorporated into the powered utility knife are described below.

As shown in FIG. 5, when the actuator 1 is moved forward, the blade 38 extends through the blade aperture in the front of the utility knife housing 53 and locks to facilitate cutting. Here, the retractable shuttle plate 19 is shown moved to its most forward position with the blade 38 extended to the cutting position (different degrees of blade extension may be selected). As described above, the retractable shuttle plate 19 can be locked in any position to which the actuator 1 is moved by releasing the actuator 1, which causes the spring loaded trigger 80 to be pushed upwards by the trigger spring 81, automatically locking the actuator against further movement. The limit switch 11 is now in the open position and power is supplied when the power switch 10 is pressed. Upon activation of the power switch, the cam arm 18, which is held in place by the cam arm bracket 402 and cam arm fastener 411, reciprocates and the shuttle carriage 32 reciprocates in a cutting action on the shuttle plate rail 20. The series of ball bearings 112 in the ball bearing housing 405 allows the shuttle carriage 32 to operate efficiently with minimal friction when moving back and forth in the power cutting mode, even taking into account the substantial forces applied to the utility knife during cutting by the blade 38. The forces applied to housing left portion 2 and housing right portion 3 are transmitted directly to shuttle shoulder 41 of retractable shuttle 19. At the same time, blade 38, which is extended to the cutting position, pushes carriage 32 upward so that ball bearing 112 in ball bearing housing 405 above carriage 32 (now in contact with the bottom surface of retractable shuttle plate 19 and the bottom surfaces of housing left portion 2 and housing right portion 3) causes carriage 32 to easily reciprocate in the power cut mode.

A motor 12 powered by the battery 7 drives the drive worm gear 16 which in turn drives a driven gear 17. Cam arm 18 is connected to driven gear 17 by engagement with mounting pin 45 of cam drive post 44 and to retractable shuttle plate 19 by engagement of cam arm connecting bore 37 with cam arm post 28. Rotation of the driven gear moves the cam arm back and forth which in turn moves the carriage 32 back and forth in a cutting action. In one embodiment, the battery 7 is rechargeable through a battery charging port 46.

Referring to fig. 6, the retractable shuttle plate 19 is manually moved to its final position by the actuator 1 to fully retract the blade 38 into the utility knife housing 53. The lower blade support 48 on the door 5 and the lower blade support 30 on the right utility knife housing portion 3 together securely hold the blade 38 on the blade carrier 32 during all stages of travel of the blade carrier 32.

In fig. 7, retractable shuttle plate 19 is manually moved forward by actuator 1 to extend the blade 38 to its cutting position. The lower blade support 30 and the door mounted lower blade support 48 secure the blade 38 against the blade carrier 32.

In one embodiment of the powered utility knife 1001 of the present invention, sliding electrical contacts for the shuttle plate are provided to eliminate the folding and unfolding of the wire as the shuttle plate and motor reciprocate as the blade of the utility knife extends and retracts. Referring to fig. 8 and 9, fixed electrical contact strips 426 and 427 are mounted on the inner wall 424 of the utility knife housing 425. The upper sliding electrical contact 428 and the lower sliding electrical contact 429 are mounted on the housing 443 of the rear bearing assembly by the sliding electrical contact fasteners 430. The upper motor contact wire 431 completes the electrical circuit between the upper sliding electrical contact 428 and the upper motor electrical contact 433. The lower motor contact wire 432 completes the electrical circuit between the lower sliding electrical contact 429 and the lower motor electrical contact 434. As the blade of the utility knife is extended or retracted, the retractable shuttle shoulder 41 rides in the shuttle channel 42, moving the motor 12 back and forth and moving the upper and lower sliding electrical contacts 428 and 429 along the stationary electrical contact strips 426 and 427, which in turn are connected to the battery 7 (power source). The upper stationary electrical contact strip 426 is electrically connected to a battery charging module 435 which is connected to the battery 7 and the power switch 10. The lower stationary electrical contact strip 427 is connected through the door 5, the power circuit breaker 89 and the electrical wiring to the battery charging module 435 and the battery 7.

Referring next to fig. 10, the actuator 1 is moved rearward along the outside of the housing 53. As the retractable shuttle plate 19 is manually moved to its final position, the blade 38 is fully seated within the aperture of the door 5 and exposed for removal. The door 5 is shown removed to access the blade 38. The door 5 aperture is wide enough so that when shuttle plate 19 is fully retracted, the door aperture can accommodate the full range of positions required by the shuttle mechanism to stop the blade carrier 32 and blade 38 in its powered cutting mode. Thus, the entire blade 38 is easily removed and/or inserted.

As a safety feature, when the door 5 is opened, the power contact 90 does not contact the power breaker 89 mounted on the door, interrupting the circuit. Since the interruption of the circuit limits the activation of the motor 12 and thus the movement of the blade holder 32 with the blade 38 when the door 5 is opened for the replacement of the blade 38, the user replacing the blade does not, for example, inadvertently press the power switch 10 to activate the power supply.

As an additional safety precaution, when the retractable shuttle 19 supporting motor 12 is retracted to bring the blade within the confines of door 5 to replace the blade, lower sliding electrical contact 429 slides beyond the end of the relatively shorter lower stationary electrical contact strip 427, thereby interrupting the electrical connection when the blade is in position within the confines of door 5.

Additional safety precautions are provided to interrupt the electrical circuit when fully retracted by contact of retractable shuttle 19 with limit switch 11, as will be described in more detail below with reference to fig. 18 and 19.

Referring to fig. 11, the retractable shuttle plate 19 reciprocates in the channel 42. The articulated tool post 32 rides on rails 20 and 39 when power shuttled in a cutting mode. The actuator 1 is shown in the locked position with the trigger 80 in the "up" position and the trigger lock 84 disposed between the locking arms 104. This restricts the locking shoulder 103 from disengaging the locking aperture 86. The upper door blade support 50 and the lower door blade support 48 secure the blade 38 against the blade carrier 32. As the retractable shuttle plate 19 is manually moved back and forth, the shuttle plate shoulder 41 rides within the shuttle plate support channel 42. Retractable shuttle plate 19 defines shuttle plate rails 20, 39 that extend forward of the body of main shuttle plate 19 in a manner that enables tool post 32 to ride securely fore and aft within tool post rail 105, thereby supporting tool post 32. The plastic rails 20, 39 serve as the primary moving contact surfaces and serve to reduce friction, allowing the motorized shuttle tool holder 32 to slide easily back and forth. Loading and/or removing the blade 38 from the utility knife is effectively accomplished through the use of the blade tray 79 and the blade loading aid 25. When the door 5 is attached to the knife housing right portion 3, the door hinge bracket 58 is positioned above and behind the bracket adapter 75. The latch bar 54 secures the door in the closed position by the bolt 55 forcing the latch bar 54 up behind the latch 106.

In FIG. 12, the cam arm 18 of the power assembly is in its extended position and the tool holder 32 is moved to its forwardmost shuttle stroke position for the back and forth forceful cutting motion. The power assembly moves the carriage 32 back and forth along the shuttle rail 20 of the shuttle plate 19.

In FIG. 13, the cam arm 18 of the power assembly is in its retracted stroke position and the tool holder 32 is moved to its rearward powered shuttle stroke position for the back and forth powered cutting motion.

Referring to fig. 14, the power assembly of fig. 12 and 13 is shown with the blade 38 attached to the blade carrier 32. The blade carrier 32 defines an upper adapter 441 and a middle blade pusher 22 that engages the back of the blade 38 when the blade 38 is pushed in the forward cutting direction. The upper blade adapter 26 and blade loading aid 25 extend through an aperture in the central region of the blade 38 and urge the blade 38 in forward and rearward cutting directions. The blade tray 79 aids in positioning the blade 38 when loading the blade 38 on the blade carrier 32.

As shown in fig. 15, the door 5 has a door release 6 in the locked position. Pushing the spring release 6 downwards opens the door 5. The door hinge bracket 58 connects the lower portion of the door 5 with the bracket adapter 75 on the knife housing right portion 3 and pivots the door 5 upwardly to close, with the latch 54 engaging the latch 106 to lock the door 5 in place.

As shown in fig. 16, the latch 54 has a bolt 55 that forces the latch 54 upward. The bolt is mounted on a spring post 57. The upper door blade support 50 and the lower door blade support 48 secure the blade 38 against the blade holder 32. The power circuit breaker 89 is connected to the door extension 92 and completes the circuit when engagement is made between the contacts 90 of the safety switch assembly.

Referring next to FIG. 17, details of the latch 54, latch release 6, lock spring 55, spring post 57, door upper blade support 50, door lower support 48, latch hold plate 56 (which holds the latch assembly in place), and door hinge 58 are more fully shown.

The power to the utility knife is always turned off until the user presses the power switch and holds it. However, as a safety precaution, in order to minimize or eliminate any possibility of accidentally turning on the power supply, for example during replacement of the blade, additional safety features may be provided.

Referring to fig. 18 and 19, the first safety limit switch 11 interrupts the electrical circuit when the retractable shuttle plate 19 is manually retracted into the housing of the utility knife by movement of the actuator 1. In fig. 18, actuator 1 moves the retractable shuttle plate 19 to the rear, the blade is retracted into the utility knife housing, with the shoulders of the shuttle plate pressing plunger return spring 437 and pushing limit switch plunger 436 into engagement with limit switch 11 to open limit switch 11, thereby breaking all electrical connections, including any electrical connections to power switch 10. Activation of the blade may also be limited if the user inadvertently bumps into the power switch 10 during blade replacement.

Referring next to fig. 19, when the actuator 1 moves shuttle plate 19 forward to extend the blade from the utility knife housing, the plunger return spring extends, pulling the limit switch plunger forward and closing the limit switch 11, completing the electrical connection for all power.

Referring next to fig. 20-22, when the utility knife door 5 (fig. 2) is opened, the second safety limit switch breaks the circuit and the power breaker 89 is not in electrical contact with the power contact 90. Figure 20 shows a partial cross-section of the right housing portion 3 of the utility knife shown in figure 2 with the door 5 of the utility knife having a door extension 92. In fig. 21, the utility knife door 5 is closed and a power breaker 89 mounted on a door extension 92 completes the circuit between the power contact 90 secured to the housing right portion 3 of the utility knife housing by a contact post 88. A power cord 93 is connected to the contact post 88 to carry electrical energy from the battery 7 to the power contact 90. In fig. 22, with the utility knife door open, the power circuit breaker 89 located in the utility knife housing right portion 3 of the utility knife housing is pulled away from the power contact 90, interrupting the circuit. The power breaker 89 is attached to a door extension 92 via a breaker post 91.

Referring next to figures 23 and 24, there is shown a partial cross-section of the inner surface of the utility knife housing right portion 3 of the utility knife housing including a portion of the utility knife door opening. In fig. 23, the utility knife door is removed to show the power contacts 90 connected by the contact posts 88. Also, a power lead 93 is connected to the contact post 88 to provide power to the power contact 90. When the door 5 is removed as shown, the circuit is interrupted. In fig. 24, the utility knife door 5 is replaced, with a circuit breaker 89 attached to a door extension 92 completing the circuit between the power contacts 90.

As shown in fig. 25 to 31, the actuator 1 has an automatic locking function. Actuator 1 is coupled to shuttle plate 19 such that shuttle plate 19 moves knife carrier 32 and blade 38 forward to extend blade 38 to any cutting position outside utility knife housing 53. When the actuator 1 is moved rearwardly, it retracts the blade 38 completely inside the utility knife housing 53. When the user's finger presses the actuator 1 to move it forward or backward, the trigger 80 on the top of the actuator 1 is pressed downward, opening the actuator 1 so that it moves freely. Once the blade 38 is moved to its desired position, the actuator 1 automatically locks in this position when the user releases the actuator 1 and trigger 80.

Fig. 25, 26, and 27 show a top view, a side view, and an end view of the actuator 1 and the trigger 80, respectively.

Fig. 28 and 29 show a side sectional view and an end sectional view, respectively, of the actuator assembly in the locked mode. The actuator 1 includes a trigger 80 which is biased upwardly into a locked position by a trigger spring 81. The trigger lock 84 is disposed between the locking arms 104 of the bolts 82, limiting any inward movement, thereby securing the locking shoulder 103 into the locking slot 86. This limits the forward or backward movement of the actuator 1 and retractable shuttle plate 19. The actuator 1 is fixed by anchor points 85 in the retractable shuttle plate 19 and held in place by the housing left and right parts 2, 3 of the utility knife housing.

Fig. 30 and 31 show a side sectional view and an end sectional view, respectively, of the actuator assembly in the open mode. The actuator 1 includes a trigger 80 that is pressed downward to open the locking arm 104 by pressing a trigger spring 81. The trigger lock 84 moves from between the locking arms 104 to region 107 which causes the flexible locking arms 104 to flex inwardly as the spring 82 is pushed by the actuator 1 as the actuator 1 is adjusted back and forth.

As shown in fig. 29 and 32, the pliable locking arms 104 are restrained from flexing toward one another by the trigger lock 84, thereby engaging the locking shoulders 103 within the locking slots 86. The locking spring 82 is connected to the actuator 1 by a retractable shuttle plate post 98, actuator anchor point 85, housing right part 3, and housing left part 2. When lock spring 82 is locked in locking slot 86, the retractable shuttle plate 19, carriage 32, and blade 38 are all locked in place. There are a plurality of locking slots 86 defined by the knife housing right and left portions 2 into and out of which the locking shoulder 103 reciprocates (orbitates) as it passes. Once the blade 38 is moved to its desired position, the actuator 1 is released, causing the trigger 80 to pass the trigger spring 81 upwardly, thereby raising the trigger lock 84 to a position between the locking arms 104 of the lock spring 82. This restricts the locking shoulder 103 from moving out of the locking groove 86 in this position.

As shown in fig. 32, the actuator 1 is locked in this position. The locking shoulder 103 engages into the locking groove 86. The ends of the pliable locking arm 104 are restrained from flexing toward one another by the trigger lock 84, thereby locking the locking shoulder 103 in the locking groove 86. When lock spring 82 is locked in locking slot 86, retractable shuttle plate 19, carriage 32, and blade 38 are all locked in place.

Referring now to fig. 33 and 34, in one particular embodiment, the utility knife is powered by a battery, which may be rechargeable and/or replaceable. In this embodiment, the battery compartment 40 is engaged with the housing 403 of the utility knife by a battery cover 4 (fig. 33). The battery compartment 40 can be removed by grasping the battery cover 4 and pulling it axially rearward to disengage the battery cover from the housing of the utility knife.

Referring to fig. 35-39, a number of specific types of blades are shown, including blades for use with the powered utility knife of the present invention. These blades have specific cutting characteristics adapted to different cutting applications.

In fig. 35, the blade 96 defines a sharp cutting edge along its bottom and curved or beveled ends. To assist in securely attaching the blades 96 to the tool post 32 during the forward and rearward powered shuttling thereof, each blade 96 defines a loading aid aperture 52 for receiving the blade support 64 and a cutout 442 for receiving the side adaptor 441.

In fig. 36, the blade 35 defines a sharp serrated portion along the bottom edge. To assist in securely attaching the blades 35 to the tool holder 63 during the forward and rearward powered shuttling thereof, each blade 35 defines a loading aid aperture 52 for receiving the blade support 64 and a cutout 442 for receiving the side adaptor 441.

In fig. 37, the replaceable blade 38 defines a base edge having two distinct portions on either side of a centerline 166, namely, a sloped serration 162 and a straight sharp edge 164 having a beveled end 168 with serrations on a bevel and an acute end 169, respectively. To assist in securely attaching the blades 38 to the tool holder 63 during the forward and rearward powered shuttling thereof, each blade 38 defines a loading aid aperture 52 for receiving the blade support 64 and a cutout 442 for receiving the side adaptor 441.

In fig. 38, an additional alternative blade 121 has sharp teeth 449 along the bottom edge. The teeth of sharp tooth 449 are configured: in the reciprocating cutting formation of each tooth, the cutting edge (aggressive) of each tooth is always directed inward. This is achieved by mirroring the tooth profile on either side of the insert centerline 448. As the blade 121 rotates to take advantage of the other half of the blade 121's idle, the cutting edge of the teeth 449 remain inward during the cutting stroke. To assist in securely attaching the blades 121 to the tool post 63 during the forward and rearward powered shuttling thereof, each blade 121 defines a loading aid aperture 52 for receiving the blade support 64 and a cutout 442 for receiving the side adaptor 441.

In fig. 39, the alternative blade 122 defines a cutting edge having two distinct portions on either side of the centerline 451, namely: angled serrations 452 and cogs 453 having angled ends 454 and 455, respectively, containing serrations. To assist in securely attaching the blades 122 to the tool post 63 during the forward and rearward powered shuttling thereof, each blade defines a loading aid aperture 52 for receiving the blade support 64 and a cutout 442 for receiving the side adaptor 441.

In fig. 40, another alternative blade 456 defines semi-circular cutting edges 457, 458 at each end of the blade. To assist in securely attaching the blades 456 to the tool post 63 during the forward and rearward powered shuttling thereof, each blade 456 defines a loading aid aperture 52 for receiving the blade support 64 and a cutout 442 for receiving the side adaptor 441.

Referring to FIG. 41, an alternative powered utility knife 1100 of the present invention has a non-retractable blade. The utility knife housing 59 has a blade 61, the blade 61 protruding from a blade aperture 109 in the forward end of the utility knife housing 59. When the power switch 10 is pressed inward and held, the motor is activated, causing the blade carrier and blade 61 to rapidly shuttle back and forth in a cutting action. Blade replacement is accomplished by depressing the blade release button 65, and when the release button 65 is depressed, the blade 61 is released so that the blade can be manually pulled away from the front of the utility knife housing 59 through the blade aperture 109. The release button 65 is also connected to a safety switch 76 mounted on the bracket 102. The safety switch breaks the circuit when the release button 65 is pressed inward. After removing the blade 61, the blade 61 may be rotated end-to-end to expose a new cutting edge, or the blade 61 may be replaced with a new blade. The blade is inserted through the blade aperture 109 and engaged and locked by the blade support 64.

As shown in fig. 42, a fixed shuttle plate is secured to the utility knife, i.e., to the housing left portion 66 and housing right portion 60 by way of anchor points 97 of the shuttle plate. The drive assembly may be as described above. The shuttle plate 62 is fixed in one position as the motor-driven shuttle carriage 63 rapidly shuttles back and forth on the fixed shuttle plate guide rails 77 in a powered cutting action.

Fig. 43 and 44 illustrate the cooperation of the release button 65 with the power off safety switch and the blade release assembly, showing the circuit interrupting mode and the blade removing mode, respectively. The blade support 64 is long enough so that the release wheel 68 is properly in contact with the blade support 64 when the tool holder is at the forward and reverse limits of the power-driven shuttle stroke.

In fig. 43, the release button 65 is pressed inward, causing the blade support 64 to move rearward by pivoting of the blade support pivot pin 74. When the blade 61 is pulled away from the front of the utility knife housing 59 through the blade aperture 109, rotation of the release wheel 68 on the wheel support 101 causes the blade 61 to slide between the wheel and the support 64. The release button 65 is connected to the switch plunger 99 of the safety switch 76 and to a release shaft 100 which is connected to the spring compressor 70. Safety switch 76 is shown in the circuit interrupting position when blade 61 is being removed or inserted. The safety switch 76 can interrupt any power that may be inadvertently activated while the blade 61 is being removed or inserted.

In fig. 44, the button spring 67 returns the blade change release button 65 and the safety switch 76 to their normal operating positions. The support spring 69 returns the support 64 to its normal position to lock the blade 61 in place in the blade holder 63. During cutting, the support pusher 78 urges the blade in a rearward direction, while the side engagers 441 and the middle blade pusher 22 urge the blade in a forward direction. The safety switch 76 in the circuit-closed position is shown directly wired to the battery 7. In a power cutting action, tool carriage 63 shuttles over shuttle guide 77 and shuttle channel 108.

In fig. 45, the release button 65 is shown in a normal operating position. The blade 61 is locked in place by the blade support 64, while the support 64 is held in place by the support spring 69. The upper and lower support ribs 72, 73 hold the blade 61 firmly against the tool holder 63. The release button 65 is connected to a release shaft 100 which is connected to the spring compressor 70. The button spring 67 moves the spring compressor 70 outward, thereby moving the release button 65 and the release wheel 68 away from the blade support 64 to achieve a proper operating mode.

In fig. 46, a release button 65 is shown, and pressing the release button 65 inwardly releases the blade for removal and insertion. Pressing the release button 65 inwardly moves the blade support 64 so that the blade 61 can be pulled out of the utility knife housing 59 or the blade 61 can be inserted into the utility knife housing 59. The release wheel 68 rotates such that the blade 61 slides between the wheel and the blade support 64. When the button 65 is released, the spring 67 pushes up against the button spring compressor 70, thereby returning the release button to the normal position. A spring bracket 71 containing a spring 67 is connected to the utility knife housing right portion 60. Other alternative release mechanisms may be used, for example, the release button 65 may be replaced with a button that slides over the switch plunger 99 and release shaft 100 to achieve an equivalent mechanical effect.

A series of ball bearings 404 within a ball bearing housing 405 allows the tool holder 63 to operate efficiently with minimal friction, even when considerable forces applied to the blade 61 during cutting are taken into account when the tool holder 63 is shuttled back and forth in the power cutting mode. The force applied to the utility knife housing is transmitted to the ball bearings 404 in the ball bearing housing 405 which travel between the top of the reciprocating knife carriage 63 and the underside of the utility knife housing left portion 66 and utility knife housing right portion 60 so that the knife carriage 63 can easily roll back and forth in the power cutting mode.

Additional blade embodiments are shown in fig. 47-53 (refer to the blade holders shown in fig. 4 and 5):

in fig. 47, the blade 117 preferably has a sharp edge 125 along the bottom edge. The sharp angled end 129 of the blade 117 enables the reciprocating blade 117 to smoothly enter the material to be cut. To assist in securely aligning the blades 117 on the tool holder 32 during rapid forward and backward power shuttling thereof, each blade 117 defines: engages the upper blade cut 124 of the upper blade adapter 26, preferably engages the loading aid opening 116 of the loading aid 25, and the cut 442 of the receiving side adapter 441.

In fig. 48, the blade 118 preferably has two distinct portions on either side of the centerline 459, namely, angled serrations 460 and straight sharpened edges 461. To assist in securely aligning the blades 118 on the tool holder 32 during rapid forward and backward power shuttling thereof, each blade 118 defines: upper blade cutout 124 that engages upper blade adapter 26, loading aid opening 116 that engages loading aid 25, and cutout 442 that receives side adapter 441.

In fig. 49, preferably, blade 119 defines sharp teeth 127 along the bottom edge. The teeth 127 are configured to: during the reciprocating cutting stroke of the teeth, the cutting edge of each tooth is always directed inward. This is achieved by mirroring the tooth profile on either side of the centre line 462 of the blade 119. As the blade 119 rotates to take advantage of the other half of the blade 119 that is idle, the cutting edge of the teeth 127 remain inward during the cutting stroke. To assist in securely aligning the blades 119 on the tool holder 32 during rapid forward and backward power shuttling thereof, each blade 119 defines: upper blade cutout 124 that engages upper blade adapter 26, loading aid opening 116 that engages loading aid 25, and cutout 442 that receives side adapter 441.

In fig. 50, the blade 120 preferably defines a sharp serrated portion 128 along the bottom edge. The beveled end 131 and the sharply rounded end 446 of the blade 120, which have sharp teeth, enable the reciprocating blade 120 to enter smoothly into the material to be cut. To assist in securely aligning the blades 120 on the tool holder 32 during rapid forward and backward power shuttling thereof, each blade 120 defines: upper blade cutout 124 that engages upper blade adapter 26, cutout 442 that receives side adapter 441, and loading aid opening 116 that engages preferably loading aid 25.

In fig. 51, the blade 150 preferably defines a bottom portion having two distinct portions 152, 154 on either side of a centerline 156, namely a straight sharp bottom edge 152 and serrations 154 having an acute end 158 and an acute end with sharp teeth 159, respectively. To assist in securely aligning the blade 150 on the tool holder 32 during rapid forward and backward power shuttling thereof, each blade defines: upper blade cutout 124 that engages upper blade adapter 26, cutout 442 that receives side adapter 441, and loading aid opening 116 that engages preferred loading aid 25.

In fig. 52, blade 160 preferably defines two distinct portions on either side of centerline 465, namely, angled serrations 468 and coarse teeth 469, which have angled ends 466 and 470, respectively, containing serrations. To assist in securely aligning the blades 160 on the tool holder 32 during rapid forward and backward power shuttling thereof, each blade defines: upper blade cutout 124 that engages upper blade adapter 26, cutout 442 that receives side adapter 441, and loading aid opening 116 that engages loading aid 25.

In fig. 53, the blade 477 preferably defines semicircular cutting edges 471 and 472 at both ends thereof. To assist in securely aligning the blade 477 to the tool holder 32 during rapid powered shuttling back and forth, each blade defines: upper blade cutout 124 that engages upper blade adapter 26, cutout 442 that receives side adapter 441, and loading aid opening 116 that engages loading aid 25.

In fig. 54, the blade 473 of the utility knife defines sharp teeth 481 along the bottom edge. The teeth 481 are configured: during the reciprocating cutting stroke of the teeth, the cutting edge of each tooth is always directed inward. This is achieved by mirroring the tooth profiles on either side of the centre line 401 of the blade 473. As the blade 473 rotates to take advantage of the other half of the blade 473 that is idle, the cutting edge of the tooth 481 remains inward during the cutting stroke. To assist in securely aligning the blade 473 on the tool holder 495 as it is rapidly power shuttled back and forth, each blade defines: an upper blade cutout 124 that engages the upper blade adapter 26, a loading aid opening 116 that engages the loading aid 25, and a corner cutout 443 that engages the corner cutout adapter 485. Referring to fig. 54A, the utility knife blade carrier 495 is formed for receiving a utility knife blade 473. In particular, tool holder 495 has a corner cut engager 485 formed and positioned for engaging a corner cut 443 of the utility blade 473.

In fig. 55, the utility knife blade 474 has sharp teeth 482 along the bottom edge. The teeth 482 are configured to: during the reciprocating cutting stroke of the teeth, the cutting edge of each tooth is always directed inward. This is achieved by mirroring the tooth profile on either side of the centre line of the blade 474. As the blade 474 rotates to take advantage of the other half of the blade 474 that is idle, the cutting edge of the teeth 482 remains inward during the cutting stroke. To assist in securely aligning the blades 474 on the blade carrier 496 as they are rapidly power shuttled back and forth, each blade defines: upper blade cutout 124 that engages upper blade engager 26, loading aid opening 116 that engages preferred loading aid 25, and long side cutout 444 that engages upper and lower cutout engagers 487 and 488 (fig. 55A). With further reference to fig. 55A, the utility knife blade carrier 496 is configured for receiving the utility knife blade 474. In particular, the blade holder 496 has upper and lower cutout engagers 487, 488 configured and positioned for engaging the long side cutouts 444 of the utility blade 474.

In FIG. 56, the blade 475 of the utility knife has sharp teeth 483 defined along the bottom edge. The teeth 483 are configured to: during the reciprocating cutting stroke of the teeth, the cutting edge of each tooth is always directed inward. This is achieved by mirroring the tooth profiles on either side of the centerline 479 of the blade 475. As the blade 475 rotates to take advantage of the idle other half of the blade 475, the cutting edge of the teeth 483 remain inward during the cutting stroke. To assist in securely aligning the blade 475 on the blade holder 497 as it is rapidly power shuttled back and forth, each blade defines: a loading aid hole 52 that receives the blade loading aid 64, and a corner cut 445 that engages a corner cut engager 490 (fig. 56A). With further reference to fig. 56A, the utility knife blade housing 497 is formed for receiving the utility knife blade 475. In particular, the blade holder 497 has a corner cutout adapter 408 that is configured and positioned for engaging the corner cutout 445 of the utility knife blade 475.

In FIG. 57, the utility knife blade 476 defines sharp teeth 484 along a bottom edge. The teeth 484 are configured to: during the reciprocating cutting stroke of the teeth, the cutting edge of each tooth is always directed inward. This is achieved by mirroring the tooth profiles on either side of the center line of the insert 476. As the blade 476 rotates to take advantage of the idle other half of the blade 476, the cutting edge of the teeth 484 remains inward during the cutting stroke. To assist in securely aligning the blades 476 on the blade holder 490 as they are rapidly power shuttled back and forth, each blade defines: a loading aid aperture 52 that receives the blade loading aid 64, and a long side cut-out 447 that engages the upper side cut-out engager 492 and the lower side cut-out engager 493 (fig. 57A). With further reference to FIG. 57A, the utility knife blade holder 490 is configured to receive a utility knife blade 476. In particular, the tool holder 490 has upper and lower side cutout engagers 492 and 493 configured and positioned for engaging the long side cutouts 447 of the utility knife blade 476.

Referring now to fig. 58, 59, and 60, in another embodiment of the powered utility knife 1200 of the present invention, the blade 206 of the utility knife is vibrated in an efficient cutting manner by means of the vibration motor 202. The utility knife 1200 has a number of features as described above. In addition, the shuttle plate 204 remains in a fixed position and the blade 206 is not retractable relative to the housing 208 of the utility knife. The vibration motor 202 is secured to a fixed motor plate 204, such as by a motor bracket assembly 210 to the fixed motor plate 204. The vibration motor 202 may include a counterweight 212. In fig. 59 and 60, end views of the non-retractable blade 206 are shown, showing the release wheel 68 and blade support 64 locking the blade in place (fig. 59) and the release wheel 68 and blade support 64 in a position in which the blade may be removed or inserted (fig. 60), respectively. This mechanism has been described in more detail above with reference to fig. 42 to 45.

In another embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 61, 62, and 63, the powered utility knife 1250 of the present invention has a retractable motor plate 252 and a vibration motor 254, wherein the utility knife has a utility knife blade that can vibrate in an efficient cutting manner. The vibration motor 254 is secured to the retractable motor plate 252 by a motor bracket assembly 260. The retractable motor plate 252 thus allows the blade 256 to be manually retracted into the utility knife housing 258 (fig. 61) and also allows the blade 256 to be extended from the utility knife housing 258 (fig. 62). An end view of the retractable blade mechanism is also shown in fig. 63. The vibrating utility knife is generally not provided with the ball bearing 112 and ball bearing housing 405 assembly for supporting the reciprocating back and forth cutting motion of the blade as described above. In one particular embodiment, the vibration motor 254 axially vibrates the extended blade 256 as the extended blade 256 is rapidly shuttled back and forth by a drive system (not shown). In one embodiment, as shown in fig. 64 and 65, an example of a vibration motor assembly 300 includes a vibration motor 302 and a counterweight 304.

Various embodiments have been described. It should be understood, however, that various modifications may be made to the embodiments of the present invention. For example, the blade replacement portion described in detail with reference to fig. 43 and 44 for use with a power utility knife having a non-retractable blade may be used in a power utility knife having a retractable blade.

In addition, referring to fig. 66 to 71, the driving worm gear 16 and the driven gear 17 (e.g., as described above with reference to fig. 3) may be replaced with a driving bevel gear 409 and a driven bevel gear 410 (fig. 66 and 67), including a power utility knife with a retractable utility knife blade (fig. 68 and 69) for the present invention and a power utility knife with a fixed utility knife blade (fig. 70) for the present invention.

Further, the utility knife of the present invention may be provided with a variable cutting stroke length assembly to enable a user to vary the length of the forward and backward cutting strokes of the blade of the utility knife mounted on the knife carriage 500. Referring to fig. 71 and 72, the motor 12 drives the drive bevel gear 413, and the drive bevel gear 413 drives a driven bevel gear 450 that is part of a stroke selector plate 412 that is rotated by the gear 450 and mounted on a rotating shaft 464 by a gear hub 463. The adjustable crank pin 406 may be located in any one of a number of different stroke adjustment holes 491 to vary the length of the cutting stroke. A crank pin knob 494 is used to move the crank pin 406 to a desired position within the adjustable cam slot 489. When the crank pin 406 is pulled out of the stroke adjustment hole 491 by the crank pin knob 494 and is rotated on the spring connecting arm 414, the spring connecting arm 414 rebounds, wherein the spring connecting arm 414 pivots centering on the connecting arm pivot pin 400 and is thereby movable to other positions within the adjustable cam slot 489. The crank pin slot 499 allows the crank pin knob 494 and crank pin 406 to slide back and forth to accommodate different radius requirements when rotating on the spring connecting arm 414. In the case where the travel adjustment hole is not provided in the adjustable cam slot 489 which is open at the time of adjustment, the V-groove follower 407 is provided on a radial V-groove 498 which is located between the desired travel adjustment holes 491. When the motor 12 is started, the stroke selector plate is rotated by the driven bevel gear 450 and the V-groove follower 407 follows the V-groove 498 until the desired stroke adjustment hole 491, with the adjustment cam 489 open, is rotated, at which point the crank pin 406 is pushed by the spring connecting arm 414 into the blade stroke adjustment hole 491 so that the adjustment cam 489 moves the connecting plate 467 back and forth by the desired stroke length. As the cutting stroke length decreases, the cutting speed decreases and the applied force increases. A relatively short cutting stroke may be used to cut small parts and/or small parts. The cutting stroke length increases and the cutting speed also increases. Relatively long cutting strokes may be used to cut larger and/or thicker workpieces.

In addition, to stabilize or align the utility knife and blade for cutting in particular situations, the powered utility knife of the present invention may be provided with an attachment in the form of a support bracket configured to be mounted on the housing of the utility knife, such as by engaging with slots provided on each side of the blade opening. Referring to fig. 73, the adjustable angle stabilizing bracket 415 defines a blade slot 418 in the center of the bracket for receiving the blade 38. The adjustable bracket arm support 417 securely attaches the bracket to the utility knife housing 420 by engaging in the support arm slots 419 on either side of the blade 38. The adjustable bracket lock 416 may be rotated clockwise to unlock the support or counterclockwise to lock the support, thereby enabling a user to adjust the adjustable bracket 415 to a desired angle. Referring to fig. 74, a non-adjustable bracket 421, for example, formed from a continuous metal rod, has bracket support arms 423 at both ends thereof that engage the utility knife housing 420 in support arm slots 419 on both sides of the blade 38. The bracket stop 422 rests against the utility knife housing 420 to provide support when a user applies pressure to the utility knife during use.

These and other embodiments are within the scope of the invention as defined in the following claims.

Claims (21)

1. A powered utility knife, comprising:

(a) a utility knife housing that is axially elongated and defines an interior cavity;

(b) a shuttle plate assembly configured to be movable relative to the interior cavity of the utility knife housing, the shuttle plate assembly comprising:

(i) a motor;

(ii) a tool holder;

(iii) a drive assembly associated with the motor and mounted to impart an effective cutting motion to the blade carrier;

(iv) an actuator projecting through an extension slot penetrating the utility knife housing, the actuator configured to be slidably movable along the extension slot to move the shuttle plate assembly laterally within the internal cavity of the utility knife housing between a blade fully retracted position and a blade fully extended position; and

(v) a blade mounted on the blade carrier, wherein a first portion of the blade protrudes through a blade slot defined by a first end of the utility knife housing when the shuttle plate assembly is in a fully extended position, and the blade retracts into the interior cavity of the utility knife housing when the shuttle plate assembly is in a fully retracted position;

(c) a power source associated with the motor; and

(d) a power switch associated with the power source and the motor.

2. The powered utility knife of claim 1, wherein the power source extends at least within the utility knife housing adjacent the shuttle plate assembly.

3. The powered utility knife according to claim 1, wherein the power switch is exposed from an exterior surface of the utility knife housing and provides an electrical connection between the power source and the motor.

4. The powered utility knife of claim 1, wherein the drive assembly includes a gear drive connecting the motor with the blade carrier, and the drive assembly is configured such that rotational output from the motor is converted into reciprocating motion acting on the blade carrier.

5. The powered utility knife of claim 4, wherein the gear drive comprises:

a worm gear associated with a drive shaft of the motor through a bearing and driven by the motor;

a cam gear driven by the worm gear and rotatably connected to the shuttle plate assembly; and

a cam arm driven by the cam device, a first end of the cam arm rotatably connected to the cam device, and a second end of the cam arm opposite the first end connected to the tool holder.

6. The powered utility knife of claim 1, wherein the power source comprises a direct current power source.

7. The powered utility knife of claim 6, wherein the direct current power source comprises a battery.

8. The powered utility knife of claim 7, wherein the dc power source further comprises a battery compartment associated with the battery, and the utility knife housing defines a battery compartment for receiving the battery compartment.

9. The powered utility knife of claim 8, wherein the battery compartment includes a plurality of electrical contacts electrically connecting the power switch and the motor and configured to engage corresponding contacts on the battery compartment.

10. The powered utility knife according to claim 8, wherein the battery compartment is removably engaged with the utility knife housing.

11. The powered utility knife of claim 1, wherein the power source comprises an alternating current power source.

12. The powered utility knife of claim 1, further comprising a blade access port defined on an exterior surface of the utility knife housing, the access port configured to provide access into the internal cavity for removing and replacing a blade.

13. The powered utility knife of claim 1, further comprising a limit switch providing an electrical connection between the power source and the power switch and configured to engage the shuttle plate assembly when the actuator is in the fully retracted position.

14. The powered utility knife of claim 13, wherein the limit switch is mounted within the internal cavity.

15. The powered utility knife of claim 1, wherein the blade carrier further comprises a blade loading aid projecting outwardly from the blade carrier and configured to releasably engage a corresponding loading aid aperture defined by the blade.

16. The powered utility knife of claim 1, wherein the blade carrier further comprises a side adapter extending outwardly from the blade carrier and configured to releasably engage a corresponding engagement notch defined by the first edge of the blade.

17. The powered utility knife of claim 1, wherein the blade carrier further comprises an upper blade adapter extending outwardly from the blade carrier and configured to releasably engage a corresponding upper blade cutout defined by the blade.

18. A powered utility knife, comprising:

(a) a utility knife housing defining a handle surface and an interior cavity;

(b) a shuttle plate assembly located within the interior cavity of the handle, wherein the shuttle plate assembly comprises:

(i) a shuttle plate, a first surface of the shuttle plate being at least closely associated with the first interior wall of the handle;

(ii) a motor mounted on a second surface of the shuttle plate opposite the first surface of the shuttle plate;

(iii) a blade carrier having a first surface in sliding engagement with the second surface of the shuttle plate, the first surface of the blade carrier defining a recess for receiving a support spring, the support spring having a first end in engagement with the first surface of the blade carrier and a second end in engagement with a distal surface of a blade support, the blade support projecting through a corresponding aperture defined by the blade carrier and projecting outwardly from the second surface of the blade carrier opposite the first surface of the blade carrier;

(iv) a drive assembly associated with the motor and mounted to impart an effective cutting motion to the blade carrier; and

(v) a blade mounted on the blade carrier and defining a loading aid aperture configured to releasably engage the blade support, a first portion of the blade projecting through a blade slot defined by the first end of the handle;

(c) a blade release button adjacent the proximal surface of the blade support, the proximal surface of the support being opposite the distal surface of the support, the blade release button having a first end configured to releasably engage the blade support and a second end projecting through a corresponding aperture defined by the utility knife housing so as to project outwardly from the handle surface, pressing the blade release button on the outer surface of the handle being capable of disengaging the blade support from the blade so as to be capable of removing the blade through the blade slot;

(d) a power supply connected to the motor; and

(e) a power switch connected with the power source and the motor.

19. The powered utility knife of claim 18, wherein the drive assembly includes a gear drive connecting the motor to the blade carrier and configured to convert a rotational output from the motor into a reciprocating motion acting on the blade carrier.

20. A powered utility knife, comprising:

(a) a utility knife housing defining a handle surface and an interior cavity;

(b) a shuttle plate assembly configured to be movable relative to the interior cavity of the utility knife housing, the shuttle plate assembly comprising:

(i) a shuttle plate assembly having a first surface in sliding engagement with an inner wall of the utility knife handle,

(ii) a motor mounted on a second surface of the shuttle plate assembly opposite the first surface;

(iii) a tool post having a first surface in sliding engagement with a second surface of the shuttle plate assembly, the tool post being adjacent the motor;

(iv) a drive assembly associated with the motor and mounted to impart an effective cutting motion to the blade carrier;

(v) an actuator located on a first side of the shuttle plate and protruding through an extension slot defined on the handle surface, the actuator configured to be slidably movable along the extension slot to move the shuttle plate assembly laterally within the interior cavity between a fully retracted position and a fully extended position; and

(vi) a blade mounted on the blade carrier, wherein when the shuttle plate assembly is in the fully extended position a first portion of the blade protrudes through a blade slot defined by a first end of the utility knife housing, when the shuttle plate assembly is in the fully retracted position the blade is retracted within the internal cavity of the utility knife housing, the first portion of the blade performs a cutting action, and when the blade on the blade carrier is rotated 180 degrees, a second portion of the blade performs a cutting action.

21. The powered utility knife of claim 20, wherein the drive assembly includes a gear drive connecting the motor to the blade carrier and configured to convert a rotational output from the motor into a reciprocating motion acting on the blade carrier.