MULTI-USE ACTIVE TOOL ASSEMBLY

摘要

A tool assembly incorporating active tool, whereby the assembly can be operated with a variety of machining apparatus but just as well can be manually operated by a user. The tool assembly in some uses can be used for printing, whereby one or more of a power source and an ink source can be configured as insertable/removable cartridges that can be used with the assembly. Additionally, in such case, an ink management module can be used with the tool assembly to regulate the flow of ink from the ink source to a functional head of the assembly. The tool assembly can also include a user interface, which, along with a communication module, can enable the assembly to be actuated directly or via wireless communication.

主权项

1. A tool assembly configured for performing a function on an object, the tool assembly comprising:
an active tool comprising:
a microprocessor; anda functional head electrically coupled to the microprocessor; a power source being electrically coupled to the microprocessor for powering the functional head; and a housing including a first portion and a second portion, the second portion containing the functional head, the first portion defined as an internal web that divides the first portion into a plurality of separate compartments, a first of the compartments accommodating the microprocessor, a second of the compartments sized to accommodate the power source, a third of the compartments sized to accommodate at least one item relating to operation of the functional head; wherein the second and third compartments are open to an exterior of the first portion, thereby defining respective recesses, the power source and the at least one item related to operation of the functional head are housed in separate cartridges that are selectively insertable within or removable from corresponding of the recesses.