Work machine

Abstract

The present application relates to a work machine, and discloses a technology capable of applying various power supply devices having different shapes of housings to a work machine. The work machine is capable of operating using electric power supplied from a first power supply device or a second power supply device, and is used in a state of contacting a ground. The first power supply device and the second power supply device each include a battery cell, a housing that accommodates the battery cell, a power supply line that extends from the housing for discharging electric power, and a connector that is provided at an end portion of the power supply line. The housing of the first power supply device and the housing of the second power supply device have mutually different shapes. The work machine includes a power supply device mounting portion that is capable of selectively mounting either of the first power supply device and the second power supply device, and a connector connecting portion that connects the connector.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The technology disclosed in this specification relates to a type of work machinery. Background Technology

[0002] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2013-000029 discloses a work machine. The work machine is capable of operating using power supplied from a battery pack and is used in contact with the ground. The work machine has a battery pack mounting section for mounting the battery pack. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The problem the invention aims to solve

[0004] In extending the operating time of the work machinery described in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2013-000029, a power supply device with a rated capacity larger than that of the battery pack is used instead of the battery pack. Various types of power supply devices exist with different housing shapes. This specification discloses a technique for applying various power supply devices with different housing shapes to work machinery.

[0005] Solution for solving the problem

[0006] This specification discloses a work machine. The work machine is capable of operating using electricity supplied from a first power source or a second power source, and is used in contact with the ground. The first and second power sources each include: a battery cell; a housing that houses the battery cell; a power cord extending from the housing for discharging electricity; and a connector disposed at the end of the power cord. The housings of the first and second power sources have different shapes. The work machine includes: a power source mounting section for selectively mounting either the first or second power source; and a connector connection section for connector connection.

[0007] In the above structure, it is possible to use the work machine by installing a first power supply device in the power supply device mounting section, and it is also possible to use the work machine by installing a second power supply device with a housing shape different from that of the first power supply device in the power supply device mounting section. Therefore, it is possible to apply various power supply devices with different housing shapes to the work machine. Attached Figure Description

[0008] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the work machine 2 equipped with the first power supply device 28 according to an embodiment.

[0009] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view near the cutter 16 of the working machine 2 in the embodiment.

[0010] Figure 3This is a perspective view of the power supply device mounting section 26 in the embodiment.

[0011] Figure 4 This is a perspective view of the first power supply device 28 in the closed state of the first upper housing 40 of the embodiment.

[0012] Figure 5 This is a perspective view of the first power supply device 28 with the first upper housing 40 of the embodiment open.

[0013] Figure 6 This is a perspective view of the area near the connector connection part 48 of the working machine 2 in the embodiment.

[0014] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of the key insertion part 54 in the embodiment.

[0015] Figure 8 This is a perspective view of the area near the key insertion part 54 when the cover 50 is closed, according to the embodiment.

[0016] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view near the third device-side engaging portion 98 in the embodiment where the first power supply device 28 is installed in the power supply device mounting portion 26.

[0017] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view near the first device-side engaging portion 94 of the embodiment, in which the first power supply device 28 is installed in the power supply device mounting portion 26.

[0018] Figure 11 This is a perspective view of the third device-side engaging portion 98 of the embodiment.

[0019] Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional view near the third device-side engaging portion 98 when the first power supply device 28 is installed in the power supply device mounting portion 26 according to the embodiment.

[0020] Figure 13 This is a perspective view of the work machine 2 equipped with the second power supply device 30 according to an embodiment.

[0021] Figure 14 This is a perspective view of the second power supply device 30 in the embodiment.

[0022] Figure 15 This is a top view of the second power supply device 30 with the second upper housing 152 removed, according to the embodiment.

[0023] Figure 16 This is a cross-sectional view near the third device-side engaging portion 98 when the second power supply device 30 is installed in the power supply device mounting portion 26 according to the embodiment.

[0024] Figure 17This is a cross-sectional view near the second device-side engaging portion 96 of the embodiment, in which the second power supply device 30 is installed in the power supply device mounting portion 26. Detailed Implementation

[0025] Hereinafter, representative and non-limiting examples of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. This detailed description is merely intended to show those skilled in the art the details of preferred examples for carrying out the present invention, and is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. Furthermore, in order to provide further improved working machinery, the disclosed additional features and technical solutions may be used independently of other features and technical solutions, or in combination with other features and technical solutions.

[0026] Furthermore, the combinations of features and processes disclosed in the following detailed description are not essential in the broadest sense for implementing the invention, but are described only to illustrate representative specific examples of the invention. Moreover, in providing additional and useful embodiments of the invention, the various features of the following representative examples and the various features recited in the claims are not necessarily to be combined as in the examples described herein or in the order listed.

[0027] All features set forth in this specification and / or claims are intended to be disclosed independently of the structure of the features set forth in the embodiments and / or claims, as limitations on the disclosure of the original application and the specific matters set forth in the claims, and are disclosed individually and independently of each other. Furthermore, all numerical ranges and descriptions relating to groups or sets are intended to limit the disclosure of the original application and the specific matters set forth in the claims, with the intention of disclosing these intermediate structures.

[0028] In one or more embodiments, the first power supply device may further include a first inherent engaging portion disposed in the housing. Alternatively, the second power supply device may further include a second inherent engaging portion disposed in the housing. Alternatively, the power supply device mounting portion may include: a first device-side engaging portion, which is correspondingly disposed to the first inherent engaging portion and capable of engaging with the first inherent engaging portion to fix the first power supply device to the power supply device mounting portion; and a second device-side engaging portion, which is correspondingly disposed to the second inherent engaging portion and capable of engaging with the second inherent engaging portion to fix the second power supply device to the power supply device mounting portion.

[0029] In the above structure, the first power supply device can be securely fixed to the power supply device mounting part, and the second power supply device can also be securely fixed to the power supply device mounting part.

[0030] In one or more embodiments, the first power supply device and the second power supply device may each include a common engaging portion disposed in the housing. Alternatively, the power supply device mounting portion may further include a third device-side engaging portion, which is correspondingly disposed with the common engaging portion and can engage with the common engaging portion to fix the first power supply device or the second power supply device to the power supply device mounting portion.

[0031] In the above structure, the third device-side engaging portion can engage with the common engaging portion of the first power supply device, and can also engage with the common engaging portion of the second power supply device. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the structure of the power supply device mounting portion from becoming complicated.

[0032] (Example)

[0033] Reference Figures 1 to 17 The following describes the operating machinery 2 in the embodiment. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the working machine 2 is a lawnmower. The working machine 2 is operated using electricity supplied from either the first power supply unit 28 or the second power supply unit 30 (described later). The working machine 2 is used in contact with the ground. The working machine 2 includes a main body unit 4, a grass-collecting unit 6, and a handle unit 8. The main body unit 4 has four wheels 10 that are in contact with the ground. The grass-collecting unit 6 is detachably mounted to the rear end of the main body unit 4. The handle unit 8 is connected to the upper rear side of the main body unit 4. The user stands behind the working machine 2 and pushes the upper part of the handle unit 8 forward with both hands, thereby rotating the wheels 10 and moving the main body unit 4 forward along the ground. Hereinafter, the direction in which the wheels 10 rotate and move the main body unit 4 along the ground is referred to as the forward-backward direction, the direction perpendicular to the ground is referred to as the up-down direction, and the direction perpendicular to both the forward-backward and up-down directions is referred to as the left-right direction.

[0034] like Figure 2 As shown, the main unit 4 includes a base 12, a drive shaft 14, a cutter 16, a fan 18, a motor mounting part 20, a cutter motor 22, and an ECU (not shown). The lower surface of the base 12 opens into a generally cylindrical shape facing the ground. A generally circular opening 12a is formed on the upper surface of the base 12. The inner space of the base 12 communicates with a pipe (not shown) that opens towards the rear of the main unit 4. In the grass collection unit 6 (see reference...) Figure 1When installed at the rear end of the base 12, the internal space of the base 12 communicates with the internal space of the grass collection unit 6 via a pipe. The drive shaft 14 extends in a generally vertical direction. The cutter 16 and fan 18 are disposed within the internal space of the base 12. The cutter 16 is fixed to the lower end of the drive shaft 14. The cutter 16 extends from the drive shaft 14 in a direction generally orthogonal to the vertical direction. The fan 18 is fixed to the drive shaft 14 at a position above the cutter 16. When the drive shaft 14 rotates, the cutter 16 rotates, thereby cutting the grass on the ground. Furthermore, when the drive shaft 14 rotates, the fan 18 rotates, creating an airflow within the internal space of the base 12 from the opening on the lower surface of the base 12 toward the pipe. Thus, the grass cut by the cutter 16 is sucked up by the fan 18 and transported to the grass collection unit 6 via the pipe.

[0035] The motor mounting part 20 is fixed to the upper surface of the base 12. The motor mounting part 20 fixes the cutter motor 22. The cutter motor 22 is, for example, a brushless motor. The cutter motor 22 rotates the drive shaft 14. The ECU includes, for example, an inverting circuit (not shown) having multiple switching elements (not shown) and a control circuit (not shown) that controls the operation of the multiple switching elements. The ECU controls the operation of the cutter motor 22 by controlling the power supplied to the cutter motor 22 from the first power supply unit 28 or the second power supply unit 30 described later.

[0036] Operating machinery 2 also includes Figure 3 The power supply unit mounting section 26 is shown. (As shown) Figure 2 As shown, the power supply mounting part 26 is fixed to the motor mounting part 20. The power supply mounting part 26 covers the cutter motor 22 from above. The power supply mounting part 26 can supply power to the first power supply 28 (see reference). Figure 1 ) and the second power supply unit 30 (refer to Figure 13 Either of the following can be selectively installed: Specifically, when the first power supply device 28 is installed in the power supply device mounting section 26, the second power supply device 30 cannot be installed in the power supply device mounting section 26; and when the second power supply device 30 is installed in the power supply device mounting section 26, the first power supply device 28 cannot be installed in the power supply device mounting section 26. Hereinafter, the first power supply device 28 will be described first.

[0037] Figure 4 The first power supply unit 28 shown is part of a backpack battery on which a back frame, shoulder straps, and waist belt are mounted. The user can carry the backpack battery by wearing the shoulder straps over their shoulders and the waist belt around their waist. The first power supply unit 28 includes a first housing 32 and four first battery packs BP (see reference). Figure 5 ), Power line 1 34 (refer to) Figure 1 ) and the first connector 36 (refer to) Figure 1The first housing 32 includes a first lower housing 38 and a first upper housing 40. When the first power supply device 28 is mounted on the power supply device mounting portion 26, the lower surface 38a of the first lower housing 38 faces the power supply device mounting portion 26. Figure 5 As shown, four battery mounting sections 42 are arranged on the first lower housing 38. The first battery pack BP can be attached and detached from the battery mounting sections 42. Multiple battery cells (not shown) are housed inside the first battery pack BP. These battery cells include, for example, lithium-ion batteries. The first battery pack BP has, for example, a rated voltage of 18V and a rated capacity of 108Wh. With all four first battery packs BP installed in the battery mounting sections 42, the first power supply 28 has a rated voltage of 18V or 36V and a rated capacity of 436Wh. Therefore, by using the first power supply 28, the operating machinery 2 can be used for extended periods. Furthermore, the weight of the first battery pack BP is, for example, 0.6kg, and with all four first battery packs BP installed in the battery mounting sections 42, the weight of the first power supply 28 is, for example, 7kg or more. The first upper housing 40 is mounted on the first lower housing 38 in an openable and closable manner. With the first upper housing 40 open, the first battery pack BP can be attached and detached from the battery mounting sections 42. On the other hand, with the first upper housing 40 closed, the first battery pack BP is disposed in the internal space divided by the first lower housing 38 and the first upper housing 40. Thus, four first battery packs BP are housed inside the first housing 32.

[0038] like Figure 4 As shown, a first handle 44 is installed at the front end of the first lower housing 38. The first handle 44 is held by the user. Thus, the user can easily move the first power supply unit 28 by holding the first handle 44.

[0039] Figure 1 The first power line 34 shown is capable of discharging power from the first battery pack BP. The first power line 34 extends from the rear end of the first housing 32. The first power line 34 is disposed along the right side of the power supply mounting portion 26. A mounting portion 46 is disposed on the right side of the power supply mounting portion 26. The first power line 34 extends forward from below the mounting portion 46, then extends upward from the front of the mounting portion 46, and then extends backward from the top of the mounting portion 46. Thus, by distributing the first power line 34 around the mounting portion 46, slack in the first power line 34 can be prevented.

[0040] like Figure 6As shown, the first connector 36 is disposed at the top end of the first power line 34. The first connector 36 can be inserted into the connector connection portion 48, which is disposed on the right side of the power supply mounting portion 26. The connector connection portion 48 is disposed on the rear side of the mounting portion 46. A cover 50 is mounted on the upper side of the connector connection portion 48 in an openable and closable manner. The cover 50 is supported by a force-applying member 52 (see reference). Figure 8 A force is applied in the direction of closing the connector connection 48. With the cover 50 open, the first connector 36 can be inserted into the connector connection 48 because the connector connection 48 is open. When the first connector 36 is inserted into the connector connection 48, power from the first battery pack BP can be supplied to the working machine 2. On the other hand, as Figure 8 As shown, with the cover 50 closed, the first connector 36 cannot be inserted into the connector connection portion 48 because the cover 50 is closed. Furthermore, with the cover 50 closed, liquid can be prevented from entering the connector connection portion 48.

[0041] like Figure 6 As shown, a key insertion portion 54 is disposed at a position rearward of the connector connection portion 48. The key insertion portion 54 includes a key insertion seat 56, a waterproof wall 58, a cover member 60, and a force-applying member 62. The key insertion seat 56 has an upper surface 56a orthogonal to the vertical direction and a key insertion opening 56b disposed on the upper surface 56a. The upper surface 56a is disposed at a position superior to the connector connection portion 48. Figure 7 As shown, the locking key 64 can be inserted into the key insertion port 56b in a vertical direction. With the first connector 36 inserted into the connector connection portion 48, when the locking key 64 is inserted into the key insertion port 56b, the conductive plate 66 disposed at the lower part of the locking key 64 contacts the conductive portion 68 disposed inside the power supply mounting portion 26. The conductive portion 68 is disposed in the circuit between the first battery pack BP and the cutter motor 22. Thus, the first battery pack BP and the cutter motor 22 are electrically connected. Therefore, the cutter motor 22 can be driven using the power supplied from the first battery pack BP. On the other hand, with the first connector 36 inserted into the connector connection portion 48, when the locking key 64 is pulled out from the key insertion port 56b, the conductive plate 66 no longer contacts the conductive portion 68. Thus, the first battery pack BP and the cutter motor 22 are electrically disconnected. Therefore, no power from the first battery pack BP is supplied to the cutter motor 22, and the cutter motor 22 cannot be driven. Furthermore, the structure using the locking key 64 is not limited to the structure of this embodiment. For example, it can also be applied to situations where the first battery pack BP is directly installed in the power supply unit mounting section 26, or where power is supplied to the machine 2 from an external power source via a power cord, or other situations where other power supply sources are used.

[0042] The locking key 64 has a gripping notch 70 on its upper part. The gripping notch 70 extends through the locking key 64 in the thickness direction. With the locking key 64 inserted into the key insertion port 56b, the gripping notch 70 is positioned above the upper surface 56a. The user can easily pull the locking key 64 upward from the key insertion port 56b by inserting a finger into the gripping notch 70.

[0043] like Figure 6 As shown, the waterproof wall 58 protrudes upward from the upper surface 56a. The waterproof wall 58 surrounds the key insertion port 56b. Therefore, even if there is liquid in the portion of the upper surface 56a that is outside the key insertion port 56b, liquid can be prevented from entering the key insertion port 56b.

[0044] The cover member 60 is mounted to the key insertion seat 56 in an openable and closable manner, positioned rearward of the key insertion port 56b and the waterproof wall 58. The cover member 60 is forced in a closing direction by the force-applying member 62 (i.e., the abutment surface 60a of the cover member 60 faces the upper surface 56a of the key insertion seat 56). Figure 7 As shown, with the cover member 60 closed, a closed space 72 is defined by the cover member 60 and the upper surface 56a. A waterproof wall 58 and a locking key 64 inserted into the key insertion port 56b are disposed within the closed space 72. With the cover member 60 closed, the abutting surface 60a abuts against the upper surface 56a in a manner that surrounds the waterproof wall 58. Therefore, with the cover member 60 closed, liquid entry into the closed space 72 can be prevented.

[0045] like Figure 4 As shown, the first power supply device 28 also includes two first common engaging portions 76 and two first inherent engaging portions 78. The two first common engaging portions 76 are disposed at the rear of the lower surface 38a of the first lower housing 38. The two first common engaging portions 76 are arranged side-by-side in the left-right direction. Each first common engaging portion 76 includes an engaging recess 80 and a first common engaging claw 82. The engaging recess 80 is recessed upward from the rear of the lower surface 38a of the first lower housing 38. Figure 9 As shown, the first common engaging claw 82 separates from the bottom surface 80b of the engaging recess 80. The first common engaging claw 82 extends rearward from the side surface 80a of the engaging recess 80. The first common engaging claw 82 tilts downward from the side surface 80a. As a result, the engaging recess 80 opens rearward.

[0046] like Figure 4As shown, two first inherent engaging portions 78 are disposed on the lower surface 38a of the first lower housing 38. The two first inherent engaging portions 78 are positioned forward of the two first shared engaging portions 76. The two first inherent engaging portions 78 are arranged side-by-side in the left-right direction. Each first inherent engaging portion 78 includes an engaging recess 86 and two first inherent engaging claws 88. The engaging recess 86 is recessed upward from near the front end of the lower surface 38a of the first lower housing 38. One engaging recess 86 is connected to the right side surface 38b of the first lower housing 38, and the other engaging recess 86 is connected to the left side surface 38c of the first lower housing 38. Figure 10 As shown, the first inherent engaging claw 88 is connected to the side surface 86a of the engaging recess 86 and extends in a direction separating from the side surface 86a. The first inherent engaging claw 88 is disposed separately from the bottom surface 86b of the engaging recess 86.

[0047] Next, the explanation Figure 3 The power supply mounting portion 26 is shown. The power supply mounting portion 26 includes a base member 92, two first device-side engaging portions 94, two second device-side engaging portions 96, and two third device-side engaging portions 98. The base member 92 has a reference surface 92a. The reference surface 92a faces upward. When the first power supply 28 is mounted on the power supply mounting portion 26, the reference surface 92a is opposite to the lower surface 38a of the first lower housing 38.

[0048] Two first device-side engaging portions 94, two second device-side engaging portions 96, and two third device-side engaging portions 98 are disposed on the reference surface 92a. The two first device-side engaging portions 94 are arranged side by side in the left-right direction. Each first device-side engaging portion 94 includes a device-side engaging recess 102 and a first device-side engaging claw 104. The device-side engaging recess 102 is recessed downward from the reference surface 92a. One device-side engaging recess 102 is connected to the right side of the base member 92, and the other device-side engaging recess 102 is connected to the left side of the base member 92. The first device-side engaging claw 104 is mounted to the base member 92 in a swingable manner. Figure 10 As shown, the first device-side engaging claw 104 includes a swing shaft 104a, a gripping portion 104b, and a claw portion 104c. The swing shaft 104a extends in a front-rear direction. The swing shaft 104a is mounted in the base member 92 within the device-side engaging recess 102. The gripping portion 104b is connected to the swing shaft 104a. The gripping portion 104b is held by the user when operating the first device-side engaging claw 104. The user operates directly by holding the gripping portion 104b, enabling the first device-side engaging claw 104 to swing about the swing shaft 104a extending in the front-rear direction. The claw portion 104c extends from the gripping portion 104b in a substantially orthogonal direction. The claw portion 104c is disposed separately from the swing shaft 104a.

[0049] like Figure 3 As shown, the second device-side engaging portion 96 is positioned forward of the two first device-side engaging portions 94. The second device-side engaging portion 96 is located near the center of the base member 92 in the left-right direction. The second device-side engaging portion 96 includes a rear wall 99, two side walls 100, and a horizontal wall 101. The rear wall 99 extends upward from the reference plane 92a. The upper surface of the rear wall 99 slopes downward towards the front (see reference). Figure 17 Two sidewalls 100 extend upward from the reference plane 92a. One sidewall 100 is connected to the right end of the rear wall 99, and the other sidewall 100 is connected to the left end of the rear wall 99. The two sidewalls 100 extend to a position forward of the rear wall 99. A horizontal wall 101 extends forward from the front surface of the rear wall 99. The horizontal wall 101 is connected near the center position of the rear wall 99 in the vertical direction (see reference). Figure 17 The right end of the horizontal wall 101 is connected to a side wall 100, and the left end of the horizontal wall 101 is connected to another side wall 100.

[0050] Two third device-side engaging portions 98 are positioned rearward than the second device-side engaging portion 96 and the two first device-side engaging portions 94. The two third device-side engaging portions 98 are arranged side-by-side in the left-right direction. Each third device-side engaging portion 98 includes a device-side engaging recess 106, an engaging member 108, an auxiliary member 110, and a swing shaft 112 (see reference). Figure 11 ) and force-applying component 114 (refer to Figure 11 The device-side engaging recess 106 is recessed downwards from the reference surface 92a. (For example...) Figure 3 As shown, the engaging member 108 protrudes upward from the reference surface 92a. The engaging member 108 is made of, for example, a metal or resin material. Figure 11 As shown, the engaging member 108 includes a lower engaging portion 118, a rear engaging portion 120, and an upper engaging portion 122. Additionally, Figure 11 The diagram illustrates the posture of the engaging member 108, auxiliary member 110, swing shaft 112, and force-applying member 114 in their initial positions. The lower engaging portion 118 extends in the front-rear direction. The rear engaging portion 120 is connected to the rear end of the lower engaging portion 118. The rear engaging portion 120 extends in the vertical direction. The upper end of the rear engaging portion 120 is positioned above the upper end of the lower engaging portion 118. An insertion hole 124 is formed on the lower rear side of the rear engaging portion 120, which penetrates the rear engaging portion 120 in the left-right direction. The upper engaging portion 122 extends forward from the upper front surface of the rear engaging portion 120. The upper engaging portion 122 gradually tapers towards the front. Figure 9As shown, when the engaging member 108 is in the initial position, the upper half of the rear engaging portion 120 and the upper engaging portion 122 protrude upward from the reference plane 92a.

[0051] like Figure 3 As shown, the auxiliary member 110 protrudes upward from the reference plane 92a. The auxiliary member 110 is made of, for example, a metal or resin material. The strength of the auxiliary member 110 is lower than that of the engaging member 108. Figure 11 As shown, the auxiliary member 110 includes a lower auxiliary portion 126 and an upper auxiliary portion 128. The lower auxiliary portion 126 is disposed between the right wall 120a and the left wall 120b of the rear engaging portion 120. The lower auxiliary portion 126 extends upward. The upper end of the lower auxiliary portion 126 is positioned slightly above the upper end of the rear engaging portion 120. The upper auxiliary portion 128 extends forward from the upper end of the lower auxiliary portion 126. The vertical length of the upper auxiliary portion 128 gradually increases as it extends forward from the upper end of the lower auxiliary portion 126, and then becomes constant. Furthermore, when the auxiliary member 110 is in its initial position, the upper portions of the upper auxiliary portion 128 and the upper portion 126 protrude upward from the reference plane 92a, but this is not shown in the figure.

[0052] The swing shaft 112 is inserted into the insertion hole 124 formed in the rear engaging portion 120 and the insertion hole (not shown) formed in the lower auxiliary portion 126. Thus, the engaging member 108 and the auxiliary member 110 are supported on the base member 92 in a swingable manner by means of the swing shaft 112. Furthermore, the engaging member 108 is movable relative to the auxiliary member 110. Figure 9 As shown, the swing shaft 112 is installed in the engagement recess 106 on the equipment side of the base member 92, and both ends of the swing shaft 112 protrude outside the base member 92. Anti-detachment members 132 are installed at both ends of the swing shaft 112 (see reference). Figure 11 The anti-detachment component 132 prevents the swing shaft 112 from detaching from the base component 92.

[0053] like Figure 11 As shown, the force-applying member 114 is, for example, a torsion spring. The swing shaft 112 is inserted into the force-applying member 114. The force-applying member 114 applies force to the auxiliary member 110 toward the initial position. Furthermore, when the lower auxiliary portion 126 abuts against the rear engaging portion 120, the force of the force-applying member 114 applies force to the engaging member 108 toward the initial position.

[0054] Next, the operation of installing the first power supply device 28 into the power supply device mounting portion 26 will be described. With the first power supply device 28 tilted relative to the reference surface 92a of the base member 92, the user inserts the first common engaging claw 82 into the space between the lower engaging portion 118 and the upper engaging portion 122 of the engaging member 108. Thus, without direct operation of the engaging member 108 by the user, the upper engaging portion 122 is inserted into the engaging recess 80 of the first common engaging portion 76, and the first common engaging portion 76 engages with the third device-side engaging portion 98. Figure 12 As shown, when the first common engaging claw 82 abuts against the rear engaging portion 120 of the engaging member 108, the engaging member 108 swings rearward about the swing axis 112, changing to an inclined position relative to the reference plane 92a. In addition, the upper auxiliary portion 128 of the auxiliary member 110 abuts against the first lower housing 38 of the first power supply device 28 without being directly operated by the user, and swings rearward about the swing axis 112.

[0055] Next, the user lays the tilted first power supply unit 28 down toward the reference surface 92a, so that the lower surface 38a of the first lower housing 38 abuts against the reference surface 92a. Figure 9 As shown, the upper surfaces of the lower engaging portion 118 and the upper engaging portion 122 abut against the first lower housing 38 and swing forward about the swing axis 112, returning to the initial position. On the other hand, although the auxiliary member 110 swings forward while abutting against the first lower housing 38 using the force of the force-applying member 114, it does not return to the initial position. Figure 3 The initial position is shown.

[0056] Next, the user directly operates the gripping portion 104b of the first device-side locking claw 104, causing the first device-side locking claw 104 to swing towards the first lower housing 38. Afterwards, as... Figure 10 As shown, the user engages the claw portion 104c of the first device-side engaging claw 104 with the first inherent engaging claw 88. As a result, the lower surface 38a of the first lower housing 38 is not suspended from the reference surface 92a, and the first power supply device 28 is fixedly mounted on the power supply device mounting portion 26.

[0057] When the first power supply unit 28 is removed from the power supply unit mounting section 26, the user directly operates the gripping portion 104b of the first device-side engaging claw 104, causing the first device-side engaging claw 104 to swing in the direction of separation from the first lower housing 38. Then, the user tilts the first power supply unit 28 in the direction of separation from the reference surface 92a, pulling out the upper engaging portion 122 from the engaging recess 80. Thus, without direct operation by the user, the engagement between the first common engaging portion 76 and the third device-side engaging portion 98 is released. Furthermore, the auxiliary member 110 swings forward using the force of the force-applying member 114. When the auxiliary member 110 abuts against the engaging member 108, the force of the force-applying member 114 causes the engaging member 108 and the auxiliary member 110 to swing forward together, returning to their original positions. Figure 3 The initial position is shown.

[0058] Next, the second power supply device 30 will be described. For example... Figure 13 As shown, the second power supply unit 30 can be installed on the power supply unit mounting section 26. The second power supply unit 30 is part of a backpack battery on which a back frame, shoulder straps, and waist belt are mounted. The weight of the second power supply unit 30 is, for example, 7 kg or more. Figure 14 As shown, the second power supply device 30 includes a second housing 140 and two battery holders 142 (see reference). Figure 15 The second power supply unit 30 includes a second power cord 144 and a second connector 146. The shape of the second housing 140 differs from that of the first housing 32. The second housing 140 includes a second lower housing 150 and a second upper housing 152. When the second power supply unit 30 is mounted on the power supply unit mounting portion 26, the lower surface 150a of the second lower housing 150 is opposite to the reference surface 92a of the base member 92. The second lower housing 150 is fixed to the second upper housing 152 using screws (not shown).

[0059] like Figure 15 As shown, a second handle 154 is mounted on the front end of the second lower housing 150 in a swingable manner. The second handle 154 is held by the user in a pulled-up position. Thus, the user can easily move the second power supply unit 30 by holding the second handle 154.

[0060] Two battery holders 142 are housed inside the second housing 140. Additionally, in Figure 15To facilitate understanding of the positional relationship between the two battery racks 142, the second upper housing 152 was removed. The two battery racks 142 are arranged side-by-side in the left-right direction. The battery racks 142 house multiple battery cells (not shown). The battery cells include, for example, lithium-ion batteries. The rated voltage of the second power supply 30 is, for example, 18V or 36V, and the rated capacity is 416Wh. Thus, by using the second power supply 30, the operating machinery 2 can be used for an extended period of time.

[0061] The second power cord 144 is capable of discharging power from the battery holder 142. The second power cord 144 extends from the rear end of the second housing 140. Since the second power cord 144 is shorter than the first power cord 34, when the second power supply 30 is installed in the power supply mounting portion 26, the second power cord 144 does not wrap around the mounting portion 46 (see reference 46) located on the right side of the power supply mounting portion 26. Figure 1 Configuration, but illustrations are omitted.

[0062] The second connector 146 is disposed at the top end of the second power cable 144. The second connector 146 can be inserted into the connector connection portion 48 disposed on the right side of the power supply mounting portion 26 (see reference). Figure 6 )middle.

[0063] like Figure 14 As shown, the second power supply device 30 also includes a second inherent engaging portion 158 and two second shared engaging portions 156. The two second shared engaging portions 156 are disposed at the rear of the lower surface 150a of the second lower housing 150. Each second shared engaging portion 156 includes a second shared engaging claw 160 and a plurality of reinforcing members 162. Figure 16 As shown, the second common engaging claw 160 extends rearward from the rear of the second lower housing 150. The second common engaging claw 160 slopes downward from the rear of the second lower housing 150. A plurality of reinforcing members 162 are respectively connected to the rear of the second lower housing 150 and the lower surface of the second common engaging claw 160. The plurality of reinforcing members 162, for example, prevent damage to the second common engaging claw 160 when an external force in the vertical direction is applied to it.

[0064] like Figure 14 As shown, the second inherent engaging portion 158 is disposed at the front end of the second lower housing 150. The second inherent engaging portion 158 is disposed at a position forward of the two second shared engaging portions 156. Figure 17As shown, the second inherent engaging portion 158 includes a second inherent engaging claw 166, a swing shaft 168, an operating member 170, and a force-applying member 172. The second inherent engaging claw 166 extends downward from the swing shaft 168 extending in the left-right direction, then bends downward and further bends to extend rearward. The swing shaft 168 extends in the left-right direction and is mounted on the second lower housing 150. The operating member 170 is connected to the upper end of the swing shaft 168. The operating member 170 is forceped towards its initial position by the force-applying member 172. The operating member 170 is exposed from the second lower housing 150. Therefore, the operating member 170 can be operated by a user.

[0065] Next, the operation of mounting the second power supply unit 30 to the power supply unit mounting section 26 will be explained. The user, with the second power supply unit 30 tilted relative to the reference plane 92a of the base member 92, will then... Figure 14 The second common engaging claw 160 is inserted into the space between the lower engaging portion 118 and the upper engaging portion 122 of the engaging member 108. Thus, the second common engaging portion 156 engages with the third device-side engaging portion 98. When the second common engaging claw 160 abuts against the rear engaging portion 120 of the engaging member 108, similar to when the first power supply device 28 is mounted on the power supply device mounting portion 26, the engaging member 108 swings rearward about the swing axis 112, becoming inclined relative to the reference plane 92a. Furthermore, the auxiliary member 110 abuts against the second lower housing 150 and swings rearward about the swing axis 112.

[0066] Next, the user lays the tilted second power supply unit 30 down toward the reference surface 92a, so that the lower surface 150a of the second lower housing 150 abuts against the reference surface 92a. Figure 16 As shown, the upper surface of the lower engaging portion 118 abuts against the second lower housing 150, swings forward about the swing axis 112, and returns to its original position. Figure 3 The initial position is shown. On the other hand, although the auxiliary member 110 swings forward while abutting against the second lower housing 150 using the force of the force-applying member 114, it does not return to its original position. Figure 3 The initial position is shown.

[0067] Furthermore, when the tilted second power supply device 30 is laid down towards the reference surface 92a, causing the second inherent engaging claw 166 to abut against the upper surface of the rear wall 99 of the second device-side engaging portion 96, the second inherent engaging claw 166 swings about the swing axis 168 in the first direction. Figure 17 In this context, the first direction corresponds to clockwise. For example... Figure 17As shown, when the top of the second inherent engaging claw 166 moves to a position lower than the horizontal wall 101, the second inherent engaging claw 166 swings about the swing axis 168 in the second direction using the force from the force-applying member 172 borne by the operating member 170, and engages with the horizontal wall 101. Therefore, the lower surface 150a of the second lower housing 150 is not suspended from the reference plane 92a, and the second power supply device 30 is fixedly mounted to the power supply device mounting portion 26. Furthermore, the second direction is the opposite of the first direction.

[0068] When the second power supply unit 30 is removed from the power supply unit mounting section 26, the user presses the operating member 170 with their finger. This causes the second inherent engaging claw 166 to swing in the first direction, releasing the engagement between the second inherent engaging claw 166 and the horizontal wall 101. In this state, the user tilts the second power supply unit 30 in the direction of separation from the reference plane 92a, pulling the second common engaging claw 160 out of the space between the lower engaging portion 118 and the upper engaging portion 122 of the engaging member 108. This releases the engagement between the second common engaging portion 156 and the third device-side engaging portion 98 without direct operation of the engaging member 108 and the auxiliary member 110 by the user. Furthermore, the force of the force-applying member 114 causes the engaging member 108 and the auxiliary member 110 to swing forward together, returning to their original positions. Figure 3 The initial position is shown.

[0069] (Effect)

[0070] The work machine 2 of this embodiment can operate using electricity supplied from either the first power supply 28 or the second power supply 30, and can be used in contact with the ground. The first power supply 28 includes a battery cell, a first housing 32 for housing the battery cell, a first power line 34 extending from the first housing 32 for discharging electricity, and a first connector 36 disposed at the end of the first power line 34. The second power supply 30 includes a battery cell, a second housing 140 for housing the battery cell, a second power line 144 extending from the second housing 140 for discharging electricity, and a second connector 146 disposed at the end of the second power line 144. The first housing 32 of the first power supply 28 and the second housing 140 of the second power supply 30 have different shapes. The work machine 2 includes a power supply mounting part 26 for selectively mounting either the first power supply 28 or the second power supply 30, and a connector connection part 48 for connecting to either the first connector 36 or the second connector 146.

[0071] In the above structure, the work machine 2 can be used by mounting the first power supply device 28 on the power supply device mounting section 26, and the work machine 2 can also be used by mounting the second power supply device 30, which has a second housing 140 with a different shape than the first housing 32 of the first power supply device 28, on the power supply device mounting section 26. Thus, various power supply devices 28 and 30 with different shapes of housings 32 and 140 can be applied to the work machine 2.

[0072] Furthermore, the first power supply device 28 also includes a first inherent engaging portion 78 disposed on the first housing 32. The second power supply device 30 also includes a second inherent engaging portion 158 disposed on the second housing 140. The power supply device mounting portion 26 includes: a first device-side engaging portion 94, which is disposed corresponding to the first inherent engaging portion 78 and can engage with the first inherent engaging portion 78 to fix the first power supply device 28 to the power supply device mounting portion 26; and a second device-side engaging portion 96, which is disposed corresponding to the second inherent engaging portion 158 and can engage with the second inherent engaging portion 158 to fix the second power supply device 30 to the power supply device mounting portion 26.

[0073] In the above structure, the first power supply device 28 can be securely fixed to the power supply device mounting portion 26, and the second power supply device 30 can also be securely fixed to the power supply device mounting portion 26.

[0074] Furthermore, the first power supply device 28 also includes a first common engagement portion 76 disposed on the first housing 32. The second power supply device 30 also includes a second common engagement portion 156 disposed on the second housing 140. The power supply device mounting portion 26 also includes a third device-side engagement portion 98, which is correspondingly disposed with the first common engagement portion 76 and the second common engagement portion 156, and can engage with the first common engagement portion 76 or the second common engagement portion 156 to fix the first power supply device 28 or the second power supply device 30 to the power supply device mounting portion 26.

[0075] In the above structure, the third device-side engaging portion 98 can engage with the first common engaging portion 76 of the first power supply device 28, and can also engage with the second common engaging portion 156 of the second power supply device 30. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the structure of the power supply device mounting portion 26 from becoming complicated.

[0076] In another embodiment, the engaging member 108 can swing about a swing axis, and the auxiliary member 110 can swing about another swing axis.

[0077] In one embodiment, the strength of the engaging member 108 may be lower than that of the auxiliary member 110.

[0078] The operating machinery 2 in one embodiment is not limited to a lawnmower, but may also be a transport vehicle, a tiller, a sweeper for cleaning the ground, a vacuum cleaner, or a lift.

Claims

1. A working machine capable of operating using electricity supplied from a first power source or a second power source, and used in a state of contact with the ground, wherein, The first power supply device and the second power supply device each include: Battery cell; A housing that contains the battery cells; A power cord, extending from the housing, for discharging electricity; and Connector, which is disposed at the end of the power line, The first and second power supply devices are backpack batteries, capable of being mounted on a shoulder strap worn by the user and carried by the user. The housing of the first power supply device and the housing of the second power supply device have different shapes. The operating machinery includes: A power supply mounting section, which allows selective mounting of either the housing of the first power supply device or the housing of the second power supply device; and Connector connection part, which is used for connection by the connector. The first power supply device further includes a first inherent engaging portion disposed in the housing. The second power supply device further includes a second inherent engaging portion disposed in the housing. The power supply mounting section includes: A first device-side engaging portion, which is correspondingly configured with the first inherent engaging portion, is capable of engaging with the first inherent engaging portion to fix the first power supply device to the power supply device mounting portion; and A second device-side engaging portion, corresponding to the second inherent engaging portion, is configured to engage with the second inherent engaging portion to secure the second power supply device to the power supply device mounting portion. The first power supply device and the second power supply device each further include a common engaging portion disposed in the housing. The power supply mounting portion further includes a third device-side engaging portion, which is configured correspondingly to the common engaging portion and can engage with the common engaging portion to fix the first power supply or the second power supply to the power supply mounting portion.

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