Archived from the Tools In Action forum (Pub Talk). This thread is read-only.
So awhile back, I was talking to my brother-in-law and he has some cordless tools that needs new batteries. Somehow 3d printing came up and the idea of creating adapter plates for use of other brand batteries in the tools.
Spent sometime today and googled this myself. It turns out someone has had the same idea and made one already: http://www.instructables.com/id/How-to-make-a-3d-Printed-Cordless-Drill-Battery-Ad/
Since ideas are cheap, could someone who is a business man and entrepreneur with a 3D printer put together a kickstarter project where they make adapter plates?
It would also be cool if you could incorporate this into the plates: http://www.milwaukeetool.com/accessories/batteries-and-chargers/49-24-2371
Basically a USB and power out plug!
Maybe even create an adapter plate so you can turn cordless tools into corded tools?
The ideas are endless!
[btw, this idea isn’t original. In the video/film industry, they create adapter plates for different types of camera batteries. You can buy different adapter plates for different style battery mounts: http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/buy/Mounting-Plates/ci/3720/N/4028759422]
Hummm….
It’s been tried before but legal issues have shut down most attempts the power tool makers don’t want you to be able to swap battery platforms easily.
I think its a good idea as there are always going to be cordless power tools one brand has that another doesn’t.
Also whoever invents an adaptor for dewalt 18v and 20v max batteries would be an instant multi millionaire
It would be twice as tall trying to adapt 18 volt packs to 20v tools since the 18 volt batteries are stem packs. It shouldn’t be too hard the other way around, it would basically extend the connectors I think.
As DR suggests, it’s a legal issue. It’s one of those things you can make for yourself, or possibly even sell them under the table, but you could never market them.
It is an awesome idea though.
I still think Dewalt made a mistake not offering a 20v to 18v stempack adapter they have such a built in user base with the old platform and they pretty much alienated them except for a few tools that do have the multi port charger like the vac.
I’m sure they thought of it. I wouldn’t be surprised if reports sprang up of them having built prototypes that eventually got scrapped. I bet greed was reason as it’s the machine that runs companies today. If they had built it there would be less reason to step up to the 20v line.
Would it be a legal issue? I see items on Kickstarter for unofficial items for phones/electronics (ie; custom iPhone chargers/usb cords). Similar with 3rd party film/camera equipment.
Javier, Snap-on makes this: http://store.snapon.com/Snap-on-174-Battery-Chargers-Adaptor-Battery-Slide-on-P644498.aspx which is something I wished dewalt made. Retail for that is $26 USD.
If I knew more about 3D printing and CAD design, i’d tackle this myself!
For now, ill just have to find some dead batteries for cheap so I can hack/DIY the casing (similar to what a lot of people on youtube did).
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Just noticed this on amazon for $20: http://www.amazon.com/DEWALT-DCB090-12V-Power-Source/dp/B00EYSUK7W
Could be a great starting point it anyone wants to make an adapter for the new dewalt 20v system.
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http://i.imgur.com/pjRz9ZT.jpg
Converts Makita cordless tools to corded versions
Also on amazon is this product by greenlee: http://www.amazon.com/Greenlee-EAC18120-120-Volt-Adapter-Cordless/dp/B004I0Q5PC
Definitely overpriced, but at least the idea is possible.
I’m looking for an adapter to replace my old 12v Nicad battery with a newer 18v lithium battery. Tried the after market adapter but because it doesn’t step down the voltage, my drill refused to run. Anyone know if there are options our there?
Brian
Brian Tiessen wrote:
I’m looking for an adapter to replace my old 12v Nicad battery with a newer 18v lithium battery. Tried the after market adapter but because it doesn’t step down the voltage, my drill refused to run. Anyone know if there are options our there?
Brian
I think you said it all. 18 V, 12 V. The other issue with “conversions” is the batteries have thermal switches or sensors and even sometimes a way to detect a series so the big tools don’t work on too small of a battery.
My problem is with the other direction. I have a small blower built for 12v but I want to use an 18v battery. I know the electronics are available to reduce DC voltage; I’m wondering if anyone has put them into a package that fits Makita cordless tools.
No, but Makita batteries are commonly used by some other manufacturers like Greenlee that have no batteries of their own.