Operating machinery

Abstract

This invention provides a working machine that utilizes a simplified structure to prevent the prime mover from accidentally driving when the handle is in a non-working state. The working machine includes: a main body; a working part disposed in the main body; a prime mover; a handle mounted in the main body for a user to hold; a lever operated by the user to drive the prime mover; and a locking member. The handle is switchable between a working state and a non-working state. The locking member is movable between a non-restricted position that does not restrict the user's operation of the lever and a restricted position that restricts the user's operation of the lever. When the handle is in the working state, the locking member is in the non-restricted position; when the handle is in the non-working state, the locking member is in the restricted position. The locking member moves from the non-restricted position to the restricted position in response to the handle moving from the working state to the non-working state.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] Patent document 1 discloses a working machine comprising: a main body; a working part disposed on the main body; a prime mover; a handle mounted on the main body for a user to hold; a lever mechanism operated by the user to drive the prime mover; and a locking member. The handle is capable of switching between a working state and a non-working state.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent Literature

[0005] Patent Document 1: U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2019 / 269073 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem the invention aims to solve

[0007] The working machine of Patent Document 1 includes a switch for determining whether the handle is in an operating state and a control device for controlling the operation of the prime mover. When the control device receives a signal from the switch indicating that the handle is in an operating state, it drives the prime mover when the user operates the lever. When the control device does not receive a signal from the switch indicating that the handle is in an operating state, it does not drive the prime mover when the user operates the lever. Thus, in the working machine of Patent Document 1, the prime mover is not accidentally driven when the handle is not in an operating state, thanks to the switch. However, without a switch, signal lines and other components connected to the switch are required, thus complicating the structure of the working machine and increasing its cost.

[0008] This specification provides a technique that can suppress the prime mover from accidentally driving when the handle is not in operation, through a simplified structure.

[0009] Solution for solving the problem

[0010] Alternatively, this specification discloses a working machine, which includes: a main body; a working part disposed on the main body; a prime mover; a handle mounted on the main body for a user to hold; a lever operated by the user to drive the prime mover; and a locking member, wherein the handle is switchable between a working state and a non-working state, and the locking member is movable between a non-restricted position that does not restrict the user's operation of the lever and a restricted position that restricts the user's operation of the lever; when the handle is in the working state, the locking member is located in the non-restricted position; when the handle is in the non-working state, the locking member is located in the restricted position; and the locking member moves from the non-restricted position to the restricted position in response to the handle switching from the working state to the non-working state.

[0011] According to the above structure, when the handle is in the operating state, the locking member is in the unrestricted position, so the user can operate the lever to drive the prime mover. On the other hand, when the handle is in the non-operating state, the locking member is in the restricted position, so the user cannot operate the lever and cannot drive the prime mover. Furthermore, corresponding to the handle switching from the operating state to the non-operating state, the locking member moves from the unrestricted position to the restricted position. Therefore, it is possible to prevent accidental operation of the lever when the handle is in the non-operating state. Thus, with such a simple structure as the locking member, it is possible to prevent the prime mover from accidentally driving when the handle is in the non-operating state. Attached Figure Description

[0012] Figure 1A This is a perspective view of the lawnmower 2 as seen from the upper right front in the embodiment, showing the handle unit 6 in operation and the travel switch control lever 48 not being operated.

[0013] Figure 1B This is a perspective view of the lower arm 40, upper arm 43, and handle 44 from the upper right front in the embodiment.

[0014] Figure 2 Viewed from the right Figure 1A The right view of the lawnmower 2 in its current state.

[0015] Figure 3 View from above Figure 1A A top view of the lawnmower 2 in its current state.

[0016] Figure 4 It is along Figure 3 A cross-sectional view along line IV-IV.

[0017] Figure 5 It is along Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the VV line.

[0018] Figure 6 This is a right view of the lawnmower 2 as seen from the right side in the embodiment, showing the handle unit 6 in operation and the travel switch control lever 48 being operated.

[0019] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 The right-hand cross-sectional view of the lawnmower 2 in its current state.

[0020] Figure 8 This is a right view of the lawnmower 2 as seen from the right in the embodiment, with the grass collection container 12 removed, the handle unit 6 in a non-operating state, and the travel switch control lever 48 not operated.

[0021] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 The right-hand cross-sectional view of the lawnmower 2 in its current state.

[0022] Figure 10 This is a right view of the lawnmower 2 as seen from the right in the embodiment, with the grass collection container 12 removed, the handle unit 6 in a non-operating state, and the travel switch control lever 48 operated.

[0023] Figure 11 yes Figure 10 The right-hand cross-sectional view of the lawnmower 2 in its current state.

[0024] Figure 12 This is a right sectional view of the lawnmower 2 in an embodiment where the handle unit 6 is arranged parallel to the plane F along its length and the travel switch control lever 48 is not operated.

[0025] Figure 13 This is a diagram showing the control structure of lawnmower 2.

[0026] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0027] 2. Lawn mower; 4. Main body unit; 6. Handle unit; 8. Front wheel; 10. Rear wheel; 12. Grass collection container; 20. Main body housing; 22. Battery cover; 24. Battery pack; 26. Cutter blade; 28. Blower fan; 30. Mowing motor; 32. Traveling motor; 34. Control unit; 40. Lower arm; 40a. Base end; 40b. Top end; 41. Knob; 42. Handle unit; 43. Upper arm; 43a. Base end; 43b. Top end; 44. Handle; 46. Mowing switch control lever; 48. Traveling switch control lever; 50. Right switch unit; 52. Left switch unit; 54. Unlock button; 60. Switch housing; 62. Connecting unit; 64. Rotating unit; 66. Locking pin; 66a. First end; 66b. Second end; 68. Traveling switch mechanism 68a. End; 70. Connecting part; 72. First protrusion; 72a. Opening; 74. Second protrusion; 74a. Protrusion; 76. Force-applying member; 80. Cylindrical part; 80a. Opening; 82. Switch control lever connecting part; 84. Switch operating unit; 86. Extension; 86a. First outer peripheral surface; 86b. Second outer peripheral surface; 86c. Protrusion; 87. Locking groove; 87a. 87b, bottom; 88, flange; 90, opening; 92, first wall; 94, second wall; 96, third wall; 98, fourth wall; 98a, end; 162, connecting unit; 164, rotating unit; 170, connecting part; 172, first protrusion; 172a, opening; 174, second protrusion; 180, cylindrical part; 182, switch control lever connection part. Detailed Implementation

[0028] In the following description, representative and non-limiting examples of the invention are given 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 embodiments for carrying out the invention, and is not intended to limit the scope of the 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 conjunction with other features and technical solutions.

[0029] Furthermore, the features and combinations of processes disclosed in the following detailed description are not, in the broadest sense, necessary for carrying out 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 do not necessarily need to be combined in the same order as the examples described herein or in the listed order.

[0030] All features set forth in this specification and / or claims are intended to be disclosed separately and independently from the structure of the features set forth in the embodiments and / or claims, as limitations on the specific matters described in the original application and the claims. Furthermore, all numerical ranges and descriptions relating to organizations or groups are intended to disclose intermediate structures as limitations on the specific matters described in the original application and the claims.

[0031] In one or more embodiments, it may be a working machine, wherein the working machine includes: a main body; a working part disposed on the main body; a prime mover; a handle part mounted on the main body for a user to hold; a lever member operated by the user to drive the prime mover; and a locking member, wherein the handle part is switchable between a working state and a non-working state, and the locking member is movable between a non-restricted position that does not restrict the user's operation of the lever member and a restricted position that restricts the user's operation of the lever member; when the handle part is in the working state, the locking member is located in the non-restricted position; when the handle part is in the non-working state, the locking member is located in the restricted position; and the locking member moves from the non-restricted position to the restricted position in accordance with the switching of the handle part from the working state to the non-working state.

[0032] In one or more embodiments, the locking member may move from a restricted position to a non-restricted position in accordance with the switch of the handle from a non-operating state to an operating state.

[0033] According to the above structure, the user can operate the lever mechanism by switching the handle from the non-operating state to the operating state. Therefore, compared with a structure where the user needs to move the locking member from the restricted position to the unrestricted position after switching the handle from the non-operating state to the operating state, the user's convenience is improved.

[0034] In one or more embodiments, the locking member may also be a locking pin that is movable in response to the switching of the handle portion. The handle portion may also include a locking groove in which the locking pin can slide. Alternatively, in a restricted position, a portion of the locking pin may protrude from the locking groove, thereby restricting the user's operation of the trigger mechanism, while in an unrestricted position, the locking pin is entirely received within the locking groove.

[0035] Based on the above structure, by using a simple component such as a locking pin, it is possible to prevent accidental operation of the trigger mechanism when the handle is in an inactive state. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the prime mover from accidentally driving when the handle is in an inactive state using a simpler structure.

[0036] In one or more embodiments, when the handle is in the working state, the weight of the locking member acts in the direction that moves the locking member from the restricted position to the unrestricted position; when the handle is in the non-working state, the weight of the locking member acts in the direction that moves the locking member from the unrestricted position to the restricted position.

[0037] According to the above structure, when the handle switches from the working state to the non-working state, the weight of the locking member acts in the direction that moves the locking member from the unrestricted position to the restricted position. That is, the locking member moves automatically from the unrestricted position to the restricted position. Therefore, for example, it is possible not to provide a force-applying member for moving the locking member from the unrestricted position to the restricted position. Thus, a simpler structure can be used to prevent the prime mover from accidentally driving when the handle is in the non-working state.

[0038] In one or more embodiments, the locking member may directly restrict the user's operation of the lever mechanism in the restricted position.

[0039] For example, it is conceivable that a locking member restricts the user's operation of the lever mechanism by limiting the user's operation of a component different from the locking member (e.g., an unlocking member). In this case, a mechanism is needed to connect the lever mechanism and the component different from the locking member. Therefore, the structure of the working machine becomes complicated. According to the above structure, since the locking member directly restricts the user's operation of the lever mechanism, there is no need for a mechanism to connect the lever mechanism and the component different from the locking member. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the prime mover from accidentally driving when the handle is in a non-operating state with a simpler structure.

[0040] In one or more embodiments, the handle may also include a user-operable unlocking component. Alternatively, when the unlocking component is operated by the user, a lever component may also be operable.

[0041] According to the above structure, when the handle is in a non-operating state, the user's operation of the trigger mechanism is restricted by the locking and unlocking components. Therefore, it is possible to more reliably prevent the prime mover from accidentally driving when the handle is in a non-operating state.

[0042] (Example)

[0043] Reference Figures 1A to 13 The lawnmower 2 of this embodiment is described. The lawnmower 2 operates in contact with the ground. For example... Figures 1A to 3 As shown, the lawnmower 2 includes a main body unit 4 and a handle unit 6. The main body unit 4 includes a pair of front wheels 8 and a pair of rear wheels 10 (see reference). Figure 3The following description describes a lawnmower 2 with a pair of front wheels 8 and a pair of rear wheels 10 in contact with the ground. A grass collection container 12 is detachably mounted at the rear of the main body unit 4. A handle unit 6 is mounted at the upper rear of the main body unit 4 and extends from the main body unit 4 toward the rear and upward.

[0044] (Structure of main unit 4)

[0045] like Figure 1A As shown, the main unit 4 includes a main housing 20 and a battery cover 22. The battery cover 22 is located on the upper part of the main housing 20. The battery cover 22 is an openable cover. By opening the battery cover 22, the user can install and remove the battery pack 24 relative to the main housing 20 (see reference). Figure 13 In this embodiment, two battery packs 24 are mounted on the main housing 20.

[0046] The main body housing 20 contains a cutter 26 (see reference). Figure 13 ), blower fan 28 (reference) Figure 13 ), lawnmower motor 30 (refer to) Figure 13 ), Propeller motor 32 (refer to) Figure 13 ) and control unit 34 (refer to Figure 13 The blade 26 is located at the lower part of the main housing 20 and faces the ground. The blade 26 and the blower 28 are connected to the mowing motor 30 via a drive shaft (not shown) extending vertically. When the mowing motor 30 is driven, the blade 26 and the blower 28 rotate. As a result, the blade 26 cuts the lawn grass growing on the ground. The cut lawn grass is transported to the grass collection container 12 by the airflow generated by the rotation of the blower 28. The rear wheel 10 is connected to a reduction gear (not shown) via a first shaft (not shown) extending horizontally. The reduction gear is connected to a second shaft (not shown) connected to the travel motor 32. When the travel motor 32 is driven, the rear wheel 10 rotates. As a result, the lawnmower 2 moves forward. The control unit 34 controls the operation of the mowing motor 30 and the travel motor 32 by controlling the power supplied from the battery pack 24 to the mowing motor 30 and the travel motor 32. The lawnmower motor 30 and the travel motor 32 can be brushless DC motors, brushed DC motors, AC motors, or other types of motors.

[0047] (Structure of handle unit 6)

[0048] like Figure 1A As shown, the handle unit 6 includes a lower arm portion 40 and a handle unit 42. The base portion 40a of the lower arm portion 40 (the end on the side of the main body unit 4) is fixed to the main body housing 20 of the main body unit 4 by a threaded member B. Figure 1AAs shown, the handle unit 42 is fixed to the top portion 40b of the lower arm portion 40 (the end opposite to the main body unit 4) via the knob portion 41.

[0049] like Figures 1A to 3 As shown, the handle unit 42 includes an upper arm portion 43 (see reference). Figure 1B ), handle 44, lawn mowing switch control lever 46, travel switch control lever 48, right switch unit 50, and left switch unit 52. For example Figure 1B As shown, the base portion 43a of the upper arm portion 43 (the end on the side of the main body unit 4) is fixed to the top portion 40b of the lower arm portion 40 via a knob portion 41. The handle 44 is fixed to the top portion 43b of the upper arm portion 43 (the end on the side opposite to the main body unit 4). Figure 1A As shown, the right switch unit 50 and the left switch unit 52 are fixed to the upper arm 43. The lawn mowing switch control lever 46 and the travel switch control lever 48 are rotatably mounted on the right switch unit 50 and the left switch unit 52.

[0050] like Figure 2 , Figure 3 As shown, with the threaded part B loosened, the handle unit 6 can rotate relative to the main housing 20 about a rotation axis A1 extending in the left-right direction. Furthermore, with the knob part 41 loosened, the upper arm part 43 of the handle unit 6 can rotate relative to the lower arm part 40 about a rotation axis A2 extending in the left-right direction. The user can switch the handle unit 6 between a state where the handle unit 6 is in a suitable position for mowing (hereinafter referred to as "operating state") and a state where the handle unit 6 is in a position unsuitable for mowing (hereinafter referred to as "non-operating state"). Figure 2 As shown, for the lawnmower 2 of this embodiment, it is envisioned that the top portion 43b of the upper arm 43 (refer to) is located above the upper arm 43. Figure 1B The grass is mowed in a tilted position, with the upper arm portion 43b positioned slightly behind the base portion 43a and slightly above the base portion 43a. Specifically, in this embodiment, the tilt angle α of the upper arm portion 43 is greater than a predetermined angle (e.g., 10°). Figure 1A , Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 6 The state of the upper arm 43 is a suitable state for mowing (i.e., the working state). The tilt angle α is the angle at which the upper arm 43 tilts backward relative to the plane F extending in the vertical direction, including the axis of rotation A1. Additionally, the tilt angle α of the upper arm 43 is a state below a predetermined angle (e.g., ...). Figure 8 , Figure 10 The state of being unsuitable for mowing (i.e., non-operational state). Figure 8 , Figure 10In the middle, the tilt angle α is "-90°". Additionally, at the lower arm, 40°... Figure 1A , Figure 2 In the state shown, the upper arm 43 tilting relative to the lower arm 40 is also a non-operational state, but this is not illustrated.

[0051] The lawnmower switch control lever 46 is housed within a spring (not shown) in the left switch unit 52, which exerts a force in a forward direction away from the handle 44. Figure 3 As shown, an unlock button 54 is provided in the right switch unit 50. The unlock button 54 is used to restrict and release the restriction on the operation of the lawn mowing switch control lever 46. When the unlock button 54 is not pressed, the operation of the lawn mowing switch control lever 46 is restricted. By pressing the unlock button 54, the restriction on the operation of the lawn mowing switch control lever 46 is released. In addition, the right switch unit 50 houses a lawn mowing switch mechanism (not shown) for detecting whether the lawn mowing switch control lever 46 has been operated. When the user operates the lawn mowing switch control lever 46 with his left hand while the unlock button 54 is pressed with his right hand, the lawn mowing switch mechanism detects that the lawn mowing switch control lever 46 has been operated. Then, the control unit 34 (see reference 34) is notified. Figure 13 The system sends a signal indicating that the lawnmower switch 46 has been activated. Then, the control unit 34 drives the lawnmower motor 30, which in turn drives the cutter blade 26 and the blower fan 28. When the user releases the lawnmower switch 46, the control unit 34 stops the drive of the lawnmower motor 30, thereby stopping the drive of the cutter blade 26 and the blower fan 28.

[0052] Next, the connection of the travel switch control lever 48, the right switch unit 50, and the left switch unit 52 will be explained.

[0053] like Figure 4 As shown, the left switch unit 52 includes a switch housing 60, a connecting unit 62, a rotating unit 64, a locking pin 66, and a travel switch mechanism 68. The travel switch mechanism 68 is a mechanism for detecting whether the travel switch control lever 48 has been operated. Figure 3 , Figure 4As shown, the connecting unit 62 includes a connecting portion 70 that connects the handle 44 and the switch housing 60, a cylindrical first protrusion 72, a second protrusion 74, and a force-applying member 76. The first protrusion 72 and the second protrusion 74 extend to the right from the connecting portion 70. The second protrusion 74 is located inside the first protrusion 72. On the outer surface of the second protrusion 74, a plurality of protrusions 74a protruding radially outward from the outer surface are provided. The force-applying member 76 is disposed between the first protrusion 72 and the second protrusion 74. The force-applying member 76 is, for example, a torsion spring. The first protrusion 72 has an opening 72a. A portion of the force-applying member 76 protrudes outward from the opening 72a. The force-applying member 76 exerts force on the rotating unit 64 relative to the switch housing 60. Figure 4 Apply force in a counterclockwise direction.

[0054] like Figure 4 As shown, the rotating unit 64 is rotatably mounted on the first protrusion 72 about a rotation axis A3 extending in the left-right direction. The rotating unit 64 includes a cylindrical portion 80, a switch control lever connecting portion 82 connected to the cylindrical portion 80, and a switch operation unit 84 connected to the cylindrical portion 80. The inner diameter of the cylindrical portion 80 is slightly larger than the outer diameter of the first protrusion 72. An opening 80a is provided in the cylindrical portion 80 opposite to the opening 72a of the first protrusion 72. A portion of the force-applying member 76 protrudes outward from the opening 80a. A travel switch control lever 48 is connected to the switch control lever connecting portion 82. The switch operation unit 84 includes an extension portion 86 extending radially outward from the cylindrical portion 80 and a flange portion 88 extending along the circumferential direction of the cylindrical portion 80 from the middle of the extension portion 86. A locking groove 87 extending in the extending direction of the extension portion 86 (i.e., the radial direction of the cylindrical portion 80) is provided in the extension portion 86. The locking groove 87 includes an opening 87a and a bottom 87b located on the opposite side of the opening 87a. The locking pin 66 is received within the locking groove 87 in a manner that allows it to slide radially along the cylindrical portion 80. The locking pin 66 may have a cylindrical shape or a prismatic shape. The locking pin 66 is capable of being in an unrestricted position when the entire locking pin 66 is received within the locking groove 87 (see reference). Figure 4 , Figure 7 The limiting position when a portion of the locking pin 66 protrudes from the opening 87a toward the outside of the locking groove 87 (see reference). Figure 9 , Figure 11 , Figure 12 The movement between these positions will be detailed later. Corresponding to the user's operation of the travel switch control lever 48, the rotating unit 64 rotates about the rotation axis A3. The force-applying member 76 moves the rotating unit 64 from the unrestricted position (see reference...) Figure 4 , Figure 7 To the restricted position (reference) Figure 9 , Figure 11 , Figure 12 Apply force.

[0055] Reference Figure 4 , Figure 7 Indicates switch housing 60. (e.g.) Figure 4 As shown, an opening 90 for the extension 86 to pass through is provided at the rear of the switch housing 60. Inside the switch housing 60, there are a first wall portion 92, a second wall portion 94, a third wall portion 96, and a fourth wall portion 98. In the state where the travel switch control lever 48 is not operated ( Figure 4 In the state where the first wall portion 92 abuts against the first outer peripheral surface 86a of the extension portion 86, the first wall portion 92 abuts against the first outer peripheral surface 86a of the extension portion 86. Additionally, in the state where the travel switch control lever 48 is operated ( Figure 7 In the current state, the second wall portion 94 abuts against the second outer peripheral surface 86b of the extension portion 86. Furthermore, a protrusion 86c protruding towards the travel switch mechanism 68 is provided on the second outer peripheral surface 86b of the extension portion 86. The third wall portion 96 and the fourth wall portion 98 have a shape along the circumferential direction of the cylindrical portion 80 at a position radially outward of the cylindrical portion 80 compared to the extension portion 86. The fourth wall portion 98 is located radially inward of the cylindrical portion 80 compared to the third wall portion 96. In the circumferential direction of the cylindrical portion 80, the angle between the ends 98a of the first wall portion 92 and the fourth wall portion 98 is smaller than the angle between the first wall portion 92 and the end 68a of the travel switch mechanism 68.

[0056] like Figure 5 As shown, the right switch unit 50 includes a connecting unit 162 and a rotating unit 164. The connecting unit 162 includes a connecting portion 170 that connects the handle 44 and the right switch unit 50, a cylindrical first protrusion 172, and a second protrusion 174. The first protrusion 172 and the second protrusion 174 extend to the left from the connecting portion 170. The second protrusion 174 is located inside the first protrusion 172. The structure of the second protrusion 174 is similar to that of the second protrusion 74 of the left switch unit 52 (see reference). Figure 4 The structure is the same as that of the first protrusion 172. An opening 172a is provided in the first protrusion 172. A rotating unit 164 is mounted on the first protrusion 172 in a manner that allows it to rotate about a rotation axis A3. The rotating unit 164 includes a cylindrical portion 180 and a switch control lever connecting portion 182 connected to the cylindrical portion 180. The inner diameter of the cylindrical portion 180 is slightly larger than the outer diameter of the first protrusion 172. A travel switch control lever 48 is connected to the switch control lever connecting portion 182. Corresponding to the user's operation of the travel switch control lever 48, the rotating unit 164 rotates about the rotation axis A3.

[0057] When the travel switch control lever 48 is not operated by the user (i.e.) Figure 1A , Figure 2 , Figure 3In the current state, the travel switch control lever 48 is forced backward away from the handle 44 by the left switch unit 52 (specifically, the force-applying member 76). When the user pushes the travel switch control lever 48 towards the handle 44, the rotating units 64 and 164 rotate about the rotation axis A3. Specifically, in Figure 4 In the rotating unit 64, the switch control lever connecting part 82 rotates upward and the extension part 86 rotates downward (see reference). Figure 4 In this case, such as Figure 6 As shown, the travel switch control lever 48 is in contact with the handle 44. Furthermore, as... Figure 7 As shown, the protrusion 86c of the extension 86 pushes the end 68a of the travel switch mechanism 68 downward. As a result, the left switch unit 52 detects the operation applied to the travel switch control lever 48 and sends a corresponding signal to the control unit 34 (see reference). Figure 13 The system sends the signal. Then, the control unit 34 drives the travel motor 32, thereby driving the rear wheel 10. When the user releases the operation of the travel switch control lever 48, the control unit 34 stops driving the travel motor 32, thereby stopping the drive of the rear wheel 10.

[0058] (Location of locking pin 66)

[0059] Next, refer to Figure 4 , Figure 9 , Figure 12 This describes the position of the locking pin 66 when the user tilts the handle unit 6 towards the main body unit 4. Furthermore, Figure 12 At the midpoint of the tilt of the handle unit 6 towards the main body unit 4, the axis along the length of the handle unit 6 intersects with plane F (refer to...). Figure 2 The right-side sectional view of the lawnmower 2 in a parallel state. In this state, the handle unit 6 is in a non-operating state because the tilt angle α (“0°”) of the upper arm 43 is below a predetermined angle.

[0060] exist Figure 4 In the shown state, the locking pin 66 is inclined such that its first end 66a, located radially outward of the cylindrical portion 80, is positioned above the second end 66b on the side opposite to the first end 66a. The locking groove 87 is inclined such that its opening 87a is positioned above the bottom 87b. In this state, the weight of the locking pin 66 acts in the direction that moves the locking pin 66 from the opening 87a of the locking groove 87 towards the bottom 87b. Therefore, the second end 66b of the locking pin 66 abuts against the bottom 87b of the locking groove 87. Thus, the locking pin 66 is entirely accommodated in the locking groove 87. That is, when the handle unit 6 is in the operating state, the locking pin 66 is in the unrestricted position. Furthermore, when the handle unit 6 is in... Figure 1A , Figure 2 , Figure 3 In the position shown, the locking pin 66 is in the unrestricted position regardless of whether the travel switch control lever 48 is operated.

[0061] exist Figure 12 In the shown state, the locking pin 66 is inclined such that its first end 66a is positioned below its second end 66b. The locking groove 87 is inclined such that its opening 87a is positioned below its bottom 87b. In this state, the weight of the locking pin 66 acts in the direction that moves the locking pin 66 from the bottom 87b of the locking groove 87 towards the opening 87a. Therefore, a portion of the locking pin 66 protrudes from the locking groove 87. Furthermore, the first end 66a of the locking pin 66 abuts against the third wall portion 96 of the switch housing 60. That is, when the handle unit 6 is in a non-operating state, the locking pin 66 is in a restricted position. In addition, the axis along the length direction of the handle unit 6 and the plane F (refer to...) Figure 2 In the parallel state, the locking pin 66 is in the restricted position regardless of whether the travel switch control lever 48 is operated.

[0062] exist Figure 9 In the shown state, the locking pin 66 is inclined such that its first end 66a is positioned below its second end 66b. The locking groove 87 is inclined such that its opening 87a is positioned below its bottom 87b. In this state, the weight of the locking pin 66 acts in the direction that moves the locking pin 66 from the bottom 87b of the locking groove 87 towards the opening 87a. Therefore, compared with... Figure 12 Similarly, a portion of the locking pin 66 protrudes from the locking groove 87, and the first end 66a of the locking pin 66 abuts against the third wall portion 96 of the switch housing 60. That is, the locking pin 66 is in the restricted position. Furthermore, when the handle unit 6 is in... Figure 8 In the position shown, the locking pin 66 is in the restricted position regardless of whether the travel switch control lever 48 is operated.

[0063] Thus, when the handle unit 6 is in the operating state, the locking pin 66 is in the unrestricted position. Conversely, when the handle unit 6 is in the non-operating state, the locking pin 66 is in the restricted position. Therefore, by switching the handle unit 6 from the operating state to the non-operating state, the locking pin 66 automatically moves from the unrestricted position to the restricted position. Furthermore, by switching the handle unit 6 from the non-operating state to the operating state, the locking pin 66 automatically moves from the restricted position to the unrestricted position.

[0064] (The effect of locking pin 66)

[0065] Next, the effect of locking pin 66 will be explained. As described above, when handle unit 6 is in the operating state, locking pin 66 is in the unrestricted position. In this case, as... Figure 6 , Figure 7 As shown, when the user operates the travel switch control lever 48, the rotation unit 64 rotates around the rotation axis A3, and the protrusion 86c of the extension 86 pushes the end 68a of the travel switch mechanism 68 downward. As a result, the travel motor 32 is driven by the control unit 34, thereby driving the rear wheel 10. On the other hand, when the handle unit 6 is not in operation, the locking pin 66 is in the restricted position. In this case, as Figure 10 , Figure 11 As shown, when the user operates the travel switch control lever 48, the rotating unit 64 rotates around the rotation axis A3, and the locking pin 66 contacts the end 98a of the fourth wall portion 98. That is, as Figure 10 As shown, the travel switch control lever 48 is pressed and stops just before contacting the handle 44. Additionally, as... Figure 11 As shown, the protrusion 86c of the extension 86 pushes the end 68a of the travel switch mechanism 68 slightly downward, but the left switch unit 52 does not detect any operation applied to the travel switch control lever 48. Therefore, the left switch unit 52 does not send a signal indicating that an operation applied to the travel switch control lever 48 has been detected to the control unit 34. Consequently, the travel motor 32 and the rear wheel 10 are not driven.

[0066] With the handle unit 6 in an inactive state, the user is unlikely to expect the lawnmower 2 to move forward. In particular, as... Figure 10 As shown, when the handle unit 6 is fully tilted relative to the main body housing 20, the lawnmower 2 is in a stowed state. In this state, the travel switch control lever 48 is located forward of the main body housing 20, the mowing switch control lever 46, etc. That is, in the lawnmower 2, the travel switch control lever 48 is located at the very front. Therefore, a user who does not intend to operate the lawnmower 2 may accidentally come into contact with the travel switch control lever 48. In this embodiment, as... Figure 11 As shown, when the handle unit 6 is in a non-operating state, the locking pin 66 is in the restricted position. Therefore, even if the user accidentally touches the travel switch control lever 48, the left switch unit 52 will not detect the operation applied to the travel switch control lever 48. Thus, it is possible to prevent the lawnmower 2 from moving forward unintentionally.

[0067] (Effects of this embodiment)

[0068] like Figures 1A to 13As shown, one embodiment of the lawnmower 2 includes: a main housing 20; a cutter 26 disposed on the main housing 20; a driving motor 32; a handle unit 6 mounted on the main housing 20 for a user to hold; a driving switch control lever 48 operated by the user to drive the driving motor 32; and a locking pin 66. The handle unit 6 can switch between an operating state and a non-operating state. The locking pin 66 can be in a non-restricted position that does not restrict the user's operation of the driving switch control lever 48 (see reference). Figure 4 , Figure 7 ) and restricting the user's operation of the travel switch control lever 48. Figure 9 , Figure 11 , Figure 12 Move between ( ). When the handle unit 6 is in operation ( Figure 1A , Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 6 Under these conditions, locking pin 66 is in the unrestricted position, when handle unit 6 is in a non-operating state. Figure 8 , Figure 10 When the handle unit 6 is in the working state, the locking pin 66 is in the restricted position. Corresponding to the switch of the handle unit 6 from the working state to the non-working state, the locking pin 66 moves from the unrestricted position to the restricted position. According to the above structure, when the handle unit 6 is in the working state, the locking pin 66 is in the unrestricted position, so the user can operate the travel switch control lever 48 to drive the travel motor 32. On the other hand, when the handle unit 6 is in the non-working state, the locking pin 66 is in the restricted position, so the user cannot operate the travel switch control lever 48 and cannot drive the travel motor 32. Furthermore, corresponding to the switch of the travel switch control lever 48 from the working state to the non-working state, the locking pin 66 moves from the unrestricted position to the restricted position. Therefore, it is possible to prevent accidental operation of the travel switch control lever 48 when the handle unit 6 is in the non-working state. Thus, with such a simple structure as the locking pin 66, it is possible to prevent the travel motor 32 from being accidentally driven when the handle unit 6 is in the non-working state.

[0069] like Figure 4 , Figure 9 , Figure 12 As shown, in one embodiment of the lawnmower 2, the locking pin 66 moves from a restricted position to an unrestricted position in response to the switch unit 6 switching from a non-operating state to an operating state. According to this structure, the user can operate the travel switch control lever 48 by switching the handle unit 6 from a non-operating state to an operating state. Therefore, compared to a structure where the user needs to move the locking pin 66 from the restricted position to the unrestricted position after switching the handle unit 6 from a non-operating state to an operating state, user convenience is improved.

[0070] like Figure 4 As shown, in one embodiment of the lawnmower 2, the handle unit 6 includes a locking groove 87 for engaging a locking pin 66. As... Figure 11 As shown, in the restricted position, a portion of the locking pin 66 protrudes from the locking slot 87, thereby restricting the user's operation of the travel switch control lever 48. Figure 4 , Figure 7 As shown, in the unrestricted position, the locking pin 66 is entirely accommodated within the locking groove 87. According to the above structure, using such a simple component as the locking pin 66, accidental operation of the travel switch control lever 48 can be prevented when the handle unit 6 is in an inactive state. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the travel motor 32 from being accidentally driven when the handle unit 6 is in an inactive state with a simpler structure.

[0071] In one embodiment of the lawnmower 2, such as Figure 4 As shown, when the handle unit 6 is in the operating state, the weight of the locking pin 66 acts in the direction that moves the locking pin 66 from the restricted position to the unrestricted position. Additionally, as... Figure 9 , Figure 12 As shown, when the handle unit 6 is in a non-operating state, the weight of the locking pin 66 acts in the direction that moves the locking pin 66 from the unrestricted position to the restricted position. According to the above structure, when the handle unit 6 switches from an operating state to a non-operating state, the weight of the locking pin 66 acts in the direction that moves the locking pin 66 from the unrestricted position to the restricted position. That is, the locking pin 66 moves automatically from the unrestricted position to the restricted position. In this case, for example, a force-applying member for moving the locking pin 66 from the unrestricted position to the restricted position may not be provided. Therefore, a simpler structure can be used to prevent the travel motor 32 from being accidentally driven when the handle unit 6 is in a non-operating state.

[0072] In one embodiment of the lawnmower 2, such as Figure 11 As shown, the locking pin 66 directly restricts the user's operation of the travel switch control lever 48 in the restricted position. According to the above structure, since the locking pin 66 directly restricts the user's operation of the travel switch control lever 48, there is no need for a mechanism to connect a component different from the locking member to the travel switch control lever 48. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the travel motor 32 from being accidentally driven when the handle unit 6 is in a non-operating state with a simpler structure.

[0073] (Correspondence)

[0074] The lawnmower 2 is an example of "operating machinery". The travel motor 32 is an example of "prime mover". The travel switch control lever 48 is an example of "trigger mechanism". The locking pin 66 is an example of "locking member". In one technical solution, the handle unit 6 is an example of "handle". In other technical solutions, the upper arm 43 and the handle 44 are examples of "handle".

[0075] The specific examples of the present invention have been described in detail above, but these are merely illustrative and do not limit the scope of the claims. The technology described in the claims includes technologies obtained by various modifications and alterations to the specific examples described above.

[0076] (First variation)

[0077] "Working machinery" can also refer to rippers, sweepers, electric trolleys, etc. In the case of these types of working machinery, the state in which the handle is pulled up from the main body is the working state, and the state in which the handle is tilted relative to the main body is the non-working state. Additionally, in other variations, "working machinery" can also refer to handheld mowers, burlap shovels, etc. For example, in the case of a handheld mower, the state in which the cutter (an example of the "working part") is located below the connection between the main body and the handle is the working state, and the state in which the cutter is located above the connection is the non-working state.

[0078] (Second variation)

[0079] The "locking member" is not limited to the locking pin 66 and can also be made of granules or the like. In this modified example, the switch housing 60 is provided with a receiving portion for accommodating granules. Furthermore, when the handle unit 6 is in the operating state, all of the granules are contained within the receiving portion. On the other hand, when the handle unit 6 is in the non-operating state, all or part of the granules protrude from the receiving portion. The operation of the travel switch control lever 48 is restricted by the granules protruding from the receiving portion.

[0080] (3rd variation)

[0081] The lawnmower 2 may also include an unlocking member for restricting and releasing the operation of the travel switch control lever 48. For example, an unlocking member may be provided in the switch housing 60 of the left switch unit 52. In this case, the travel switch control lever 48 can be operated as long as the unlocking member has been operated by the user. According to the above structure, it is possible to more reliably prevent the travel motor 32 from being accidentally driven when the handle unit 6 is in a non-operating state.

[0082] (4th variation)

[0083] Alternatively, the lawnmower 2 may include: an unlocking member for restricting and releasing the operation of the travel switch control lever 48; and a locking member movable between a non-restricted position that does not restrict the user's operation of the unlocking member and a restricted position that restricts the user's operation of the unlocking member. In this variation, the lawnmower 2 may also omit the locking pin 66. Preferably, the locking member is in the non-restricted position when the handle unit 6 is in the working state, and in the restricted position when the handle unit 6 is in the non-working state. Furthermore, the locking member only needs to move from the non-restricted position to the restricted position in accordance with the movement of the handle unit 6 from the working state to the non-working state. In this variation, the operation of the travel switch control lever 48 is restricted when the unlocking member is not operated. Therefore, by restricting the user's operation of the unlocking member, the user's operation of the travel switch control lever 48 can be restricted. With this structure, it is also possible to prevent the travel motor 32 from being accidentally driven when the handle unit 6 is in the non-working state. In other variations, the lawnmower 2 may also include both the aforementioned locking member and locking pin 66.

[0084] (5th variation)

[0085] The mowing motor 30 and the mowing switch control lever 46 of the lawnmower 2 can also be examples of a "prime mover" and a "trigger component," respectively. In this variation, the lawnmower 2 only needs to include a locking member that can move between a non-restricted position that does not restrict the user's operation of the mowing switch control lever 46 and a restricted position that restricts the user's operation of the mowing switch control lever 46. Preferably, the locking member is in the non-restricted position when the handle unit 6 is in the working state and in the restricted position when the handle unit 6 is in the non-working state. The locking member only needs to move from the non-restricted position to the restricted position in accordance with the movement of the handle unit 6 from the working state to the non-working state. In addition, in other variations, the lawnmower 2 may also have a locking member that can move between a non-restricted position that does not restrict the user's operation of the unlock button 54 (an example of an unlocking member) and a restricted position that restricts the user's operation of the unlock button 54. When the handle unit 6 is in the working state, the locking member is in the unrestricted position; when the handle unit 6 is in the non-working state, the locking member is in the restricted position. The locking member can move from the unrestricted position to the restricted position in accordance with the movement of the handle unit 6 from the working state to the non-working state. As described above, when the unlock button 54 is not pressed, the operation of the lawnmower switch control lever 46 is restricted. Therefore, by restricting the user's operation of the unlock button 54, the user's operation of the lawnmower switch control lever 46 can be restricted. With this structure, it is also possible to prevent the lawnmower motor 30 from being accidentally driven when the handle unit 6 is in the non-working state.

[0086] (Sixth variation)

[0087] The lawnmower 2 may also include a force-applying member that applies force to the locking pin 66. For example, any force-applying member that applies force to the locking pin 66 from the unrestricted position to the restricted position when the handle unit 6 is in the non-operating state.

Claims

1. A type of operating machinery, wherein, The operating machinery includes: Main body; The operation unit is located within the main body. prime mover; A handle is attached to the main body for the user to hold; A lever mechanism, operated by a user, for driving the prime mover; and Locking component, The handle can switch between working and non-working states. The locking member is movable between a non-restricted position that does not restrict the user's operation of the trigger mechanism and a restricted position that restricts the user's operation of the trigger mechanism. When the handle is in the operating state, the locking member is in the non-restricted position. When the handle is in the non-operating state, the locking member is in the restricted position. Corresponding to the switch of the handle from the working state to the non-working state, the locking member moves from the unrestricted position to the restricted position. The locking member is a locking pin that can move in response to the switching of the handle portion. The handle portion includes a locking groove, and the locking pin can slide in the locking groove. In the restricted position, a portion of the locking pin protrudes from the locking groove, thereby restricting the user's operation of the trigger mechanism. In the unrestricted position, the locking pin is entirely accommodated within the locking groove.

2. The operating machinery according to claim 1, wherein, Corresponding to the switch of the handle from the non-operating state to the operating state, the locking member moves from the restricted position to the unrestricted position.

3. The operating machinery according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, When the handle is in the operating state, the weight of the locking member acts in the direction that causes the locking member to move from the restricted position to the unrestricted position. When the handle is in the non-operating state, the weight of the locking member acts in the direction that moves the locking member from the unrestricted position to the restricted position.

4. The operating machinery according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The locking member directly restricts the user's operation of the trigger mechanism at the restricted position.

5. The operating machinery according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The handle also includes a user-operable unlocking mechanism. When the unlocking component is operated by the user, the trigger component can be operated.

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