The Stanley Works

Stanley Black Decker, Inc.

Glen A Pankey

Duane R Bookshar

James F Steverding

A power tool system includes a two-handed power tool having first and second start actuators, one for each hand of an operator. A controller prevents the power tool from initiating an operating cycle unless both actuators are turned ON to reduce the possibility of the operator's hands being disposed in a hazardous position during operation of the power tool. To discourage manual override of the dual-start-switch system, the controller prevents the power tool from initiating an additional operating cycle until both actuators have been switched OFF and then ON again. The second actuator includes a tubular sleeve that extends over part of the power tool to allow the sleeve to slide axially relative to the power tool between ON and OFF positions. Axial movement of the sleeve from its OFF position to its ON position turns ON the second start actuator.

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Waterford, MI, United States of America

Glen A Pankey