Portable inflator

Abstract

The present application provides a portable inflator capable of supplying compressed air to various objects and excellent in operability. The inflator is provided with: a motor; a compression mechanism configured to be driven by the motor and to compress and discharge air; a main body case having a battery mounting portion from which a battery serving as a power source of the motor can be detached, and accommodating the motor and the compression mechanism; a foot portion supporting the main body case in a state in which a lower surface thereof is arranged on a placement surface; a grip portion linked to the main body case and extending substantially in parallel with the lower surface of the foot portion, and gripped by a user; the main body case having a mounting port for a hose for guiding compressed air discharged from the compression mechanism to an object; and a suction port and a discharge port provided in side surfaces of the main body case orthogonal to a left-right direction.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application with application number 2019104496545, application date May 28, 2019, and invention title "Portable Inflator". Technical Field

[0002] This invention relates to a portable air inflator, and more particularly, to a battery-powered portable air inflator. Background Technology

[0003] Air compressors are well known for supplying compressed air to so-called pneumatic tools driven by compressed air. For example, a miniaturized, simplified air compressor is disclosed in Patent Document 1 for easy portability to various locations.

[0004] Existing technical documents

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2012-112282 Summary of the Invention

[0007] The air compressor in Patent Document 1 is optimized specifically for supplying compressed air to pneumatic tools. For example, the motor's drive and stop are appropriately controlled based on a set air pressure and the actual air pressure. On the other hand, the objects utilizing compressed air are not limited to pneumatic tools; for example, there are various objects such as car and bicycle tires, balls, etc. Therefore, a more general device capable of supplying compressed air to various objects is desired.

[0008] In view of the above, the object of the present invention is to provide a portable air compressor that can supply compressed air to various objects and has excellent operability.

[0009] In one aspect of the present invention, a portable air inflator is provided. The air inflator includes a motor, a compression mechanism, a main body housing, feet, a handle, and an operating component. The compression mechanism is configured to be driven by the motor and to compress and discharge air. The main body housing has a battery mounting section for removing and installing a battery that serves as a power source for the motor. The main body housing also accommodates the motor and the compression mechanism. The feet have a lower surface and are configured to support the main body housing with the lower surface disposed on a mounting surface. The handle is connected to the main body housing. Furthermore, the handle extends substantially parallel to the lower surface of the feet. The operating component is provided in the handle in a manner operable by a user. The motor is configured to be driven in response to operation of the operating component. Furthermore, examples of the operating component described in this aspect include a trigger operated by the user and a button switch operated by the user.

[0010] This portable air inflator is a so-called "mounted type" air inflator, suitable for use with the lower surface of the foot mounted on a mounting surface. Since the handle extends approximately parallel to the lower surface of the foot, the user can hold the handle in a natural posture that minimizes wrist strain when the air inflator is mounted on the mounting surface. Furthermore, in this type of air inflator, the compression mechanism discharges compressed air by operating the control component. Therefore, the user can easily adjust the compressed air supply by operating the control component while simultaneously checking the status of the object (e.g., the object's inflation status, the actual air pressure display, etc.). Thus, according to this method, a portable air inflator that can supply compressed air to various objects and offers excellent operability is provided.

[0011] In one embodiment of the invention, the main housing may include a motor housing portion for accommodating a motor. Furthermore, a grip portion may be detached above the motor housing portion and extend opposite to it. According to this embodiment, since the motor housing portion, which accommodates a heavier motor, is located below the grip portion, stability when mounting and using the inflator can be improved. Additionally, the user can grip the grip portion and apply downward force while operating, further enhancing stability. Moreover, in this embodiment, the grip portion is preferably arranged substantially parallel to the rotation axis of the motor's output shaft. In this case, the configuration of the motor housing portion and the grip portion can be made more compact.

[0012] In one embodiment of the invention, the motor, compression mechanism, and battery assembly can be configured to be positioned lower than the handle. According to this embodiment, since the motor, compression mechanism, and battery assembly, which are the weights of the inflator, are all configured lower than the handle, it is easy to set the center of gravity of the inflator with the battery installed at a position lower than the handle. This further improves the stability of the inflator when it is mounted and used.

[0013] In one embodiment of the invention, the battery assembly can be configured such that the battery is assembled to the battery assembly by sliding downward and removed from the battery assembly by sliding upward. According to this embodiment, even with the inflator placed on the mounting surface, the user can easily assemble and disassemble the battery.

[0014] In one embodiment of the invention, the main housing may have a mounting port for guiding compressed air discharged from the compression mechanism to a flexible tube. In this case, the mounting port and the battery assembly may be positioned opposite each other in the extending direction of the gripping portion. According to this embodiment, even with the flexible tube installed in the mounting port, the user can easily install or remove the battery.

[0015] In one embodiment of the invention, the inflator may further include a hose. One end of the hose is connected to the compression mechanism via a mounting port. Furthermore, the protruding direction of the hose from the mounting port may be substantially parallel to the extending direction of the handle. According to this embodiment, when the inflator is placed on a mounting surface, the protruding direction of the hose from the mounting port is substantially parallel to the mounting surface. Therefore, operations such as connecting the hose to the object facilitate the installation of the hose.

[0016] In one embodiment of the invention, the inflator may further include a hose and a cover component. One end of the hose is connected to the compression mechanism via a mounting port. The cover component covers the base end of the hose that protrudes from the mounting port toward the exterior of the main housing. According to this embodiment, the cover component prevents the base end of the hose from becoming easily bent and deteriorating. Attached Figure Description

[0017] Figure 1 It is a 3D view of the inflator with the user's finger hooked on the trigger.

[0018] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view of an air compressor.

[0019] Figure 3 This is a top view of the air compressor.

[0020] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 A magnified view of a portion of the tube (with part of the tube omitted from the illustration).

[0021] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0022] 1…Inflator; 2…Main body shell; 201…Opening; 202…Inlet; 203…Exhaust port; 207…Power switch; 209…Hose bracket; 21…Base; 23…Front extension; 25…Rear extension; 251…Battery assembly; 253…Connector bracket; 27…Operating part; 271…Operating button; 272…Operating button; 275…Display; 3…Foot; 31…Lower surface; 33…Elastic component; 4…Holding part; 41…Trigger; 43…Switch; 45…Switch; 51…Motor; 511…Motor shaft; 513…Drive gear; 52…Fan; 53…Control unit; 6…Compression mechanism; 61…Crankshaft; 611…Crank plate; 613…Eccentric pin; 63…Connecting rod; 65…Piston; 67…Cylinder; 671…Compression chamber; 673…Exhaust port; 69…Pressure sensor; 7…Hose; 70…Connector; 75…Cover component; 8…Battery; 9…Chuck; 901…Rod; 90…Joint; 91…Bicycle tire joint; 910…Chain; 92…Ball joint; 93…Joint for recreational products; A1…Rotating shaft; P…Carrier surface. Detailed Implementation

[0023] Hereinafter, the air inflator 1 according to the embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Figure 1 The air inflator 1 shown is a portable power tool that can supply compressed air to a variety of objects by selectively attaching an adapter 90 to a chuck 9. Examples of objects supplied with compressed air include car and bicycle tires, sports balls (soccer balls, basketballs, volleyballs, etc.), and recreational items used by inflating them (swimming rings, beach balls, etc.).

[0024] First, refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The general structure of the air inflator 1 will be described. The air inflator 1 is placed on a mounting surface P (e.g., ground, floor, ceiling, see reference 1). Figure 2 It is constructed with the premise of being used in the state of (). Therefore, in the following text, for ease of explanation, the vertical direction of the inflator 1 is defined based on the posture of the inflator 1 when it is placed on the mounting surface P, which is a plane. That is, the side placed on the mounting surface P is the lower side of the inflator 1, and the side separated from the mounting surface P is the upper side.

[0025] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the inflator 1 includes a main body housing 2, feet 3, a handle 4, and a hose 7. The main body housing 2 is configured to supply power to a motor 51, etc. (see reference). Figure 2 The housing contains a casing. The feet 3 are configured to be disposed on the mounting surface P and support the main housing 2. In this embodiment, two feet 3 protrude downwards from the main housing 2. The feet 3 are formed in a rectangular box shape and each has a lower surface 31 disposed on the mounting surface P. The base 21 in the main housing 2, which serves as the portion for housing the motor 51, is formed in an elongated shape. The base 21 extends substantially parallel to the lower surface 31 (i.e., the mounting surface P when the inflator 1 is placed). An opening 201 is provided at one end of the main housing 2 in the extending direction of the base 21. The opening 201 is configured as an installation port for a hose 7 for guiding compressed air to an object, and the hose 7 protrudes from the opening 201. Furthermore, a battery mounting portion 251 is provided at the other end of the main housing 2 in the extending direction of the base 21, allowing for the attachment and detachment of a battery 8, which serves as a power source.

[0026] The handle 4 is the part held by the user when carrying the object and when supplying compressed air to it. The handle 4 is formed into an elongated cylindrical shape. The handle 4 is separated from the base 21 above and faces the base 21, and extends substantially parallel to the base 21. In addition, the handle 4 has a trigger 41 that can be activated (pressed) by the user. When the trigger 41 is activated while the hose 7 is connected to the object, compressed air is supplied to the object via the hose 7.

[0027] The detailed structure of the inflator 1 will now be described. Furthermore, for ease of explanation, the direction orthogonal to the vertical direction and corresponding to the extension direction of the grip 4 (base 21) will be defined as the front-rear direction of the inflator 1; the mounting side of the hose 7 (opening 201 side) will be defined as the front side; and the mounting side of the battery 8 (battery mounting part 251 side) will be defined as the rear side. Additionally, the direction orthogonal to both the vertical and front-rear directions will be defined as the left-right direction.

[0028] First, the main shell 2 and its internal structure will be described. For example... Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the main body shell 2 is generally formed in an approximately U-shape, including a base 21, a front extension 23 and a rear extension 25.

[0029] As described above, the base 21 is a portion of the main body housing 2 that extends in the front-to-back direction. The front extension 23 and the rear extension 25 are connected to the front and rear ends of the base 21, respectively, and extend in the vertical direction. The front extension 23 and the rear extension 25 protrude upwards more than the base 21. The front and rear ends of the grip 4 are connected to the upper ends of the front extension 23 and the rear extension 25, respectively. Thus, the main body housing 2 and the grip 4 are formed into an approximately D-shaped ring in the side view. In addition, two feet 3 protrude downwards from the lower ends of the front extension 23 and the rear extension 25, respectively. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the main body housing 2, the feet 3, and the grip 4 are formed as a single unit by combining left and right halves.

[0030] The main body housing 2 is provided with a vent that connects the interior and exterior of the main body housing 2. More specifically, multiple air intakes 202 are provided on the left and right sides of the main body housing 2, extending from the rear end of the base 21 to the lower end of the rear extension 25. Additionally, multiple exhaust ports 203 are provided on the left and right sides of the central portion of the front extension 23 in the vertical direction. Furthermore, a power switch 207 is provided on the left side of the rear end of the base 21. Figure 3 As shown, a flexible hose support 209 is provided on the right side of the base 21.

[0031] like Figure 4As shown, the motor 51 is housed in the base 21. More specifically, the motor 51 is disposed on the front portion of the base 21. Furthermore, the rotation axis A1 of the motor shaft 511 extends parallel to the lower surface 31 of the foot 3 in the front-rear direction. The front end of the motor shaft 511 protrudes into the forward extension 23. A drive gear 513 is fixed to the front end of the motor shaft 511. A fan 52 is fixed to the rear end of the motor shaft 511 (behind the motor body (stator and rotor)). The fan 52 rotates integrally with the motor shaft 511 as the motor 51 is driven.

[0032] The compression mechanism 6 is housed in the lower portion of the front extension 23. The compression mechanism 6 is configured to be driven by the motor 51 and to compress and discharge air (also called an air pump). In this embodiment, the compression mechanism 6 is configured with a crankshaft 61, a connecting rod 63, a piston 65, and a cylinder 67 as its main components. Since the structure of such a compression mechanism 6 is known, it will be briefly described here.

[0033] The crankshaft 61 has a crank plate 611 and an eccentric pin 613. Gear teeth that mesh with the drive gear 513 are formed on the outer periphery of the crank plate 611. Furthermore, the rotation axis of the crankshaft 61 extends parallel to the rotation axis A1 of the motor shaft 511. The eccentric pin 613 is positioned eccentrically relative to the rotation axis of the crankshaft 61 and protrudes forward from the crank plate 611. The connecting rod 63 is configured to extend generally in the vertical direction. The lower end of the connecting rod 63 is rotatably connected to the eccentric pin 613. A piston 65 is integrally provided at the upper end of the connecting rod 63.

[0034] The cylinder 67 is fixed within the central portion of the front extension 23, and the piston 65 can slide up and down within the cylinder 67. A compression chamber 671 is formed on the upper side of the piston 65. An outlet 673 for discharging compressed air from the compression chamber 671 to the outside is open at the front. An opening 201 of the main housing 2 is formed opposite to the front side of the outlet 673.

[0035] In addition, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, an operation unit 27 is provided at the upper end of the front extension 23. The operation unit 27 includes operation buttons 271 and 272, a display 275, and a control unit (also called a control circuit, not shown). Operation buttons 271 and 272 are operating components for setting a target air pressure, and are pressed to increase or decrease the set target air pressure. The display 275 is a display device that displays the target air pressure or the actual air pressure of the compressed air in the compression chamber 671. Furthermore, a pressure sensor 69 for detecting the actual air pressure inside the compression chamber 671 is provided on the upper side of the compression chamber 671 (between the compression chamber 671 and the operation unit 27). The control unit of the operation unit 27 is electrically connected to the operation buttons 271 and 272, the display 275, the pressure sensor 69, and the control unit 53 of the motor 51. The control unit of the operation unit 27 causes the display 275 to display the set target air pressure based on the operation of the operation buttons 271 and 272. Furthermore, during the operation of the motor 51, the control unit of the operation unit 27 causes the display 275 to display the actual air pressure detected by the pressure sensor 69. Moreover, when the actual air pressure reaches the target air pressure, the control unit of the operation unit 27 outputs a specific signal to the control unit 53 of the motor 51.

[0036] like Figure 4 As shown, a battery mounting section 251 is provided at the rear end of the lower portion of the rear extension 25. More specifically, the battery mounting section 251 is disposed on the rotation axis A1 of the motor shaft 511 at the rear of the motor 51. The battery mounting section 251 in this embodiment has a well-known structure that allows for the installation and removal of a rechargeable battery 8.

[0037] In short, the battery assembly section 251 includes a pair of guide rails, a hook engagement portion, and terminals. The pair of guide rails are configured to slidably engage with a pair of guide grooves provided on the battery 8. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the guide rails are provided at the left and right rear ends of the rear extension 25 and extend vertically. The hook engagement portion is provided on the upper part of the battery assembly section 251 as a recess that can engage with a hook provided on the battery 8 in a way that allows it to be exposed and inserted freely. With this structure, the battery 8 is assembled into the battery assembly section 251 by sliding downward and removed from the battery assembly section 251 by sliding upward. Furthermore, if the battery 8 slides downward to a predetermined position, the hook engages with the hook engagement portion, and the terminals of the battery 8 are electrically connected to the terminals of the battery assembly section 251, thereby completing the assembly.

[0038] Additionally, a connector bracket 253 is provided on the upper side of the battery assembly portion 251 in the rear extension 25. As described above, in the inflator 1 of this embodiment, a chuck 9 and one of various connectors 90 (specifically, a bicycle tire connector 91, a ball connector 92, and a recreational product connector 93) are selectively used. The bicycle tire connector 91 is always connected to the hose 7 via a chain 910. Therefore, the connector bracket 253 is configured to hold both the ball connector 92 and the recreational product connector 93, and has two recesses for fitting the ball connector 92 and the recreational product connector 93 respectively.

[0039] Next, we will explain part 3 of the foot. For example... Figure 4 As shown, two feet 3 extend downward from the lower front end and lower rear end of the main body housing 2, respectively (more specifically, the lower ends of the front extension 23 and the rear extension 25). Furthermore, the lower end of the compression mechanism 6 (more specifically, a portion of the crank disc 611) is disposed inside the front feet 3. Therefore, compared to the case where the entire compression mechanism 6 is housed within the main body housing 2, the vertical height of the main body housing 2 as a whole can be suppressed. Additionally, an elastic member 33 of an elastic mechanism is installed at the bottom of the feet 3. In this embodiment, the lower surface of the elastic member 33 constitutes a lower surface 31 disposed on the mounting surface P.

[0040] The gripping part 4 and its internal structure are described below. Figure 4 As shown, the handle 4 is connected to the upper ends of the front extension 23 and the rear extension 25, and extends substantially parallel to the base 21 (i.e., substantially in the front-rear direction). Therefore, the motor 51, the compression mechanism 6, and the battery assembly 251 are located lower than the handle 4. Furthermore, when the battery 8 is assembled in the battery assembly 251, the battery 8 is also located lower than the handle 4. In other words, in the inflator 1, the heavier motor 51, the compression mechanism 6, and the battery 8 are all positioned lower than the handle 4. This configuration ensures that the center of gravity of the inflator 1 with the battery 8 assembled is located lower than the handle 4.

[0041] The trigger 41 is held at the lower front end of the grip 4 in a manner that allows it to move vertically. In the initial state, the trigger 41 is positioned in a position where it protrudes downward to its maximum extent from the grip 4 (also known as the initial position) by means of a force-applying component (not shown) (e.g., a compressed coil spring), and moves upward accordingly in response to a user's actuation operation. The switch 43 is housed inside the grip 4. If the trigger 41 is actuated to move it from the initial position to a predetermined position (also known as the on position), the switch 43 switches from the off state to the on state. The switch 43 is electrically connected to the control unit 53 of the motor 51.

[0042] In this embodiment, the length of the grip portion 4 in the front-to-back direction is set to a length suitable for the average hand size of an adult male. Furthermore, the thickness of the grip portion 4 is set to a diameter that is small enough to accommodate the switch 43. Moreover, as... Figure 1 As shown, the operation buttons 271 and 272 of the operation unit 27 are positioned so that they can be operated with the thumb when the user holds the grip unit 4 by hooking the trigger 41 with their index finger. Thus, the grip unit 4 is configured with optimal structure considering the operation of the trigger 41 while the grip unit 4 is being held.

[0043] The hose 7 is described below. Figure 4 As shown, a connector 70 is installed at one end of the hose 7. The hose 7 is connected to the discharge port 673 of the compression mechanism 6 via the connector 70. Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the hose 7 extends forward from the opening (mounting port) 201 of the main body housing 2. The base end of the hose 7, protruding from the opening 201 to the outside of the main body housing 2, is covered by a cover member 75. In this embodiment, the cover member 75 is a component formed of resin in a spiral shape, allowing for a certain degree of stretching and bending. Furthermore, the hose 7 is flexible, allowing the user to bend it freely. The base end of the hose 7 is held by the cover member 75 in a state where it protrudes substantially forward from the opening 201. When the inflator 1 is stored, the user can hold the hose 7 in the hose support 209 (see reference 209) provided on the right side of the base 21. Figure 3 Furthermore, the hose support 209 has protrusions arranged opposite each other in the vertical direction and is configured to clamp and hold the hose 7.

[0044] A chuck 9, capable of engaging with the valve of a vehicle's tire, is fixed to the end (free end) of the hose 7. The chuck 9 has a lever 901 that can rotate between a locked position (shown in the figure) and an unlocked position (not shown). With the lever 901 in the unlocked position, the user engages the chuck 9 with the vehicle's tire valve, and then rotates the lever 901 to the locked position to secure the chuck 9 to the valve. Additionally, the chuck 9 can also engage with a connector 90. The user operates the lever 901 in the same manner, thereby allowing the appropriate connector 90 to be installed on the chuck 9 according to the object to which compressed air is supplied.

[0045] The operation of the inflator 1 will now be explained. In this embodiment, if the trigger 41 is activated and moved to the ON position, causing the switch 43 to be in the ON state, the control unit 53 of the motor 51 drives the motor 51 by energizing it. Furthermore, when the power switch 207 is in the OFF state, the control unit 53 of the motor 51 does not drive the motor 51 even if the trigger 41 is activated; the motor 51 is only driven when the power switch 207 is in the ON state.

[0046] Driven by the motor 51, the motor shaft 511 rotates together with the fan 52 and the drive gear 513. Air then flows into the main housing 2 through the intake port 202. Additionally, the crankshaft 61 rotates using the drive gear 513. As the eccentric pin 613 revolves around the axis of rotation of the crankshaft 61, the piston 65, fixed to the upper end of the connecting rod 63, reciprocates vertically within the cylinder block 67. This process of air intake and compression is repeated. Furthermore, a portion of the air flowing into the main housing 2 is drawn into the compression mechanism 6, while the remainder flows around the compression mechanism 6 and is discharged from the exhaust port 203. The airflow from the intake port 202 to the exhaust port 203 functions as cooling air for the motor 51 and the compression mechanism 6.

[0047] Compressed air (compressed air) in compression chamber 671 is introduced into hose 7 connected to outlet 673 and supplied to the target object via chuck 9 or connector 90. If the trigger 41 is released, causing switch 43 to be in the off state, the control unit 53 of motor 51 stops driving (energizing) motor 51. Furthermore, as described above, in this embodiment, the user can set the target air pressure using operation buttons 271 and 272. When the control unit 53 of motor 51 receives a specific signal from the control unit of operation unit 27, it stops driving motor 51 even when switch 43 is in the on state. This specific signal indicates that the actual air pressure detected by pressure sensor 69 has reached the target air pressure. In other words, the control unit 53 of motor 51 is configured to stop driving motor 51 when switch 43 is switched to the off state or when the actual air pressure reaches the target air pressure.

[0048] As explained above, the inflator 1 of this embodiment is a so-called mounting-type inflator suitable for use with the lower surface 31 of the foot 3 placed on the mounting surface P. Since the grip 4 extends substantially parallel to the lower surface 31, the inflator 1 is substantially parallel to the mounting surface P when it is placed on the mounting surface P. Therefore, the user can grip the grip 4 in a natural posture that makes it difficult to put weight on the wrist. In addition, in the inflator 1, the compression mechanism 6 discharges compressed air according to the actuation of the trigger 41 (the on state of the switch 43). Therefore, the user can easily adjust the amount of compressed air supplied by actuating the trigger 41 while checking the state of the object (e.g., the expansion state of the object, the actual air pressure displayed on the display 275, etc.). That is, the user starts to supply compressed air to the object by actuating the trigger 41, and releases the trigger 41 when it is determined that an appropriate amount of compressed air has been supplied to the object. Thus, according to this method, a portable air compressor that can be used to supply compressed air to a variety of objects and has excellent operability is provided.

[0049] Furthermore, in the inflator 1 of this embodiment, the user can set the desired target air pressure using the operation unit 27. Then, when the compressed air pressure detected by the pressure sensor 69 reaches the target air pressure, the control unit 53 of the motor 51 stops driving the motor 51 regardless of whether the trigger 41 is engaged (even if the switch 43 is in the on state). Therefore, when using the inflator 1 for automobile tires, an appropriate target air pressure can be set so that the motor 51 automatically stops driving. On the other hand, when using the inflator 1 for, for example, bicycle tires, balls, or recreational products, the user can preset the target air pressure to be higher than the required pressure and adjust the supply of compressed air by engaging and disengaging the trigger 41. Thus, according to the inflator 1 of this embodiment, the user can select the method of stopping the motor 51 driving according to the object, thereby improving convenience.

[0050] In this embodiment, the gripping part 4 is separated above the base 21 that houses the motor 51 and extends opposite to the base 21. Since the base 21, which houses the relatively heavy motor 51, is located below the gripping part 4, the stability of the inflator 1 when placed on the mounting surface P is improved. Furthermore, the compression mechanism 6, which serves as a weight other than the motor 51, and the battery assembly part 251 are also located lower than the gripping part 4. With this configuration, the center of gravity of the inflator 1 when the battery 8 is installed is set at a lower position than the gripping part 4, thus further improving the stability of the inflator 1 during use. In addition, according to the inflator 1 of this embodiment, the user can grip the gripping part 4, which extends approximately parallel to the mounting surface P, and operate it while applying downward force. This method of use further improves the stability of the inflator 1 during use.

[0051] In this embodiment, the battery mounting part 251 is configured such that the battery 8 slides downward to be mounted on the battery mounting part 251 and slides upward to be removed from the battery mounting part 251. Therefore, even when the inflator 1 is placed on the mounting surface P, the user can easily install and remove the battery 8. Furthermore, the opening 201, which serves as the mounting port for the hose 7, and the battery mounting part 251 are provided on opposite sides (i.e., front and rear sides) relative to the handle part 4 in the front-rear direction. Therefore, even when the hose 7 is installed, the user can easily install and remove the battery 8.

[0052] Furthermore, the hose 7 protrudes forward from the opening 201, approximately parallel to the handle 4. Therefore, with the inflator 1 placed on the mounting surface P, the hose 7 protrudes forward from the opening 201, approximately parallel to the mounting surface P. This facilitates operations such as connecting the hose 7 to the target object and the placement of the hose 7. Additionally, since the trigger 41 is located at the front end of the handle 4, the user faces forward when operating the trigger 41. At this time, since the hose 7 also protrudes in the same direction, it is easy to observe the hose 7 and the target object connected via the hose 7 while performing the operation.

[0053] Furthermore, the base end of the hose 7, which protrudes from the opening 201 to the outside of the main housing 2, is covered by the cover member 75. Therefore, the cover member 75 prevents the base end of the hose 7 from easily bending and deteriorating. Additionally, as described above, the compression mechanism 6 is effectively cooled by the cooling air flowing from the intake port 202 into the main housing 2 and reaching the exhaust port 203. Compared to the end of the hose 7, the temperature of the compressed air is higher at the base end of the hose 7 near the exhaust port 673. Therefore, the cover member 75 also functions to prevent the user from directly contacting the base end of the hose 7.

[0054] The above embodiments are merely examples, and the inflator involved in this invention is not limited to the structure of the inflator 1 shown in the examples. For example, the following modifications can be applied. Furthermore, any one or more of these modifications can be combined with the inflator 1 shown in the embodiments or the invention described in the various technical solutions.

[0055] For example, the shapes of the main body shell 2, the foot 3, and the grip 4 can be appropriately modified. For example, the main body shell 2, the foot 3, and the grip 4 do not need to be formed as a single unit; they can be formed separately and connected to each other. As long as the foot 3 has a lower surface disposed on the mounting surface P and can support the main body shell 2, it does not need to be a part that can be separated from the main body shell 2 as illustrated in the above embodiment. For example, the foot can also be formed from the lower end of the main body shell 2. In addition, in the above embodiment, an elastic member 33 with a lower surface 31 is provided on the foot 3 as an anti-slip member and a cushioning member, but the elastic member 33 can also be omitted, and the structure can be formed in which the lower surface of the foot 3 is disposed on the mounting surface P.

[0056] In the above embodiment, a trigger 41 is used as the operating component for driving the motor 51. However, a momentary push-button switch (a switch that only becomes on while being pressed) can be used instead of the trigger 41. In this case, preferably, for example, when the user is holding the handle 4, the push-button switch is provided on the upper part of the handle 4 so that it can be pressed by the user with their palm or thumb. In particular, when it can be pressed with the palm, the motor 51 can be driven simply by applying downward force while holding the handle 4, and the stability of the inflator 1 during use can be further improved.

[0057] Furthermore, the structure and arrangement of the motor 51, the compression mechanism 6, and the battery assembly 251 can be appropriately modified. For example, a brushless motor can be used for the motor 51. The type of compression mechanism 6 is not limited to the reciprocating structure exemplified in the above embodiments; for example, it can be a rolling structure. The battery assembly 251 can be configured to allow the battery 8 to be installed and removed by sliding in the left-right direction.

[0058] In the above embodiment, the hose 7 is assembled to the main housing 2 with one end connected to the compression mechanism 6 via the opening 201. However, the hose 7 may also be configured to be detachable from the main housing 2 and the compression mechanism 6. The cover member 75 of the hose 7 may also be configured to completely cover the base end of the hose 7 without forming a slit spiral shape.

[0059] In the above embodiment, the inflator 1 includes an operation unit 27 for setting a target air pressure, and the motor 51 is sometimes stopped based on the target air pressure and the actual air pressure. However, such control is not always necessary. That is, the motor 51 can be stopped only in response to the release of the trigger 41's actuation (i.e., the switch 43 is switched to the off state). In this case, the operation unit 27 and the pressure sensor 69 can be omitted. Alternatively, the display 275 may only display the air pressure detected by the pressure sensor 69. Furthermore, the operation unit 27 can be configured to allow selection of a first mode and a second mode, where the first mode stops the motor 51 only in response to the release of the trigger 41's actuation, and the second mode stops the motor 51 in response to the release of the trigger 41's actuation or based on the target air pressure and the actual air pressure. Additionally, the operation unit for setting the target air pressure is not limited to push-button operation buttons 271 and 272; for example, it can be a rotary dial.

[0060] The following shows the correspondence between the structural elements of this embodiment and the structural elements of the present invention. The inflator 1 is an example of the "inflator" of the present invention. The motor 51, motor shaft 511, and rotating shaft A1 are examples of the "motor," "output shaft," and "rotating shaft" of the present invention, respectively. The compression mechanism 6 is an example of the "compression mechanism" of the present invention. The main body housing 2 and base 21 are examples of the "main body housing" and "motor housing" of the present invention, respectively. The battery assembly 251 and battery 8 are examples of the "battery assembly" and "battery" of the present invention, respectively. The foot 3 (elastic member 33) and lower surface 31 are examples of the "foot" and "lower surface" of the present invention, respectively. The grip 4 and trigger 41 are examples of the "grip" and "operating member" of the present invention, respectively. The opening 201, hose 7, and cover member 75 are examples of the "installation port," "hose," and "cover member" of the present invention, respectively.

[0061] Furthermore, in view of the spirit of the present invention and the above embodiments, the following approach has been developed. The following approach can be combined with the inflator 1 shown in the embodiments, the above-described modifications, or the inventions described in the various technical solutions.

[0062] [Method 1]

[0063] The operating component is configured such that the user can perform a pressing or tapping operation using their fingers while holding the gripping part.

[0064] [Method 2]

[0065] It also includes a control unit configured to control the drive of the motor.

[0066] The control unit is configured to drive the motor only during the period when the operating component is operated by pulling or pressing.

[0067] [Method 3]

[0068] The compression mechanism has an outlet for discharging compressed air.

[0069] The discharge port is opposite the mounting port in the extension direction of the gripping part.

[0070] [Method 4]

[0071] The compression mechanism and the battery assembly are disposed on the rotating shaft of the output shaft.

[0072] [Method 5]

[0073] When the battery is assembled in the battery assembly part, the center of gravity of the inflator is located at a position lower than that of the handle part.

[0074] [Method 6]

[0075] It also has:

[0076] The setting operation unit is used to set the target air pressure;

[0077] A pressure sensor configured to detect the air pressure of air compressed by the compression mechanism; and

[0078] The control unit is configured to control the drive of the motor.

[0079] The control unit is configured to stop driving the motor when the operation of the operating component is released, or when the air pressure detected by the pressure sensor reaches the target air pressure set by the setting operation unit.

[0080] Furthermore, the operation unit 27 (operation buttons 271, 272) is an example of a "setting operation unit" in this embodiment. The pressure sensor 69 is an example of a "pressure sensor" in this embodiment. The control unit 53 of the motor 51 is an example of a "control unit" in this embodiment.

[0081] [Method 7]

[0082] When the extension direction of the gripping part is defined as the front-rear direction, the operating member is disposed at the front end of the gripping part.

[0083] The mounting port is located at the front end of the main housing.

[0084] [Method 8]

[0085] When the user is holding the gripping part, the operating component and the setting operation part are positioned so that they can be operated by the user using their index finger and thumb respectively.

[0086] [Method 9]

[0087] The hose is configured to selectively connect to a variety of objects via detachable connectors.

[0088] Furthermore, connector 90 is an example of a "connector" in this method.

Claims

1. An inflator, which is a portable inflator. The inflator is characterized by having: A motor; which has a motor shaft that rotates about a rotational axis; A compression mechanism, configured to be driven by the motor and to compress and discharge air; The main housing has a battery assembly section for detaching and installing a battery that serves as a power source for the motor, and is used to house the motor and the compression mechanism. The feet, with their lower surfaces positioned on the mounting surface, support the main body housing; A gripping part, which is connected to the main body housing and extends substantially parallel to the lower surface of the foot, is gripped by the user; as well as The control unit includes a display showing the air pressure of the inflator and operation buttons that can be pressed to set a target value for the air pressure. The main housing has an installation port for guiding compressed air discharged from the compression mechanism to the object. An air intake and an exhaust port are provided on the side of the main body shell that is orthogonal to the left and right directions. The main housing has a base that extends substantially parallel to the gripping portion and is intended to accommodate the motor. The direction orthogonal to the lower surface of the foot is defined as the vertical direction of the inflator, and the direction orthogonal to the vertical direction and corresponding to the extension direction of the base is defined as the front-back direction of the inflator. The foot includes: a front foot protruding downward from the main body housing, and a rear foot protruding downward from the main body housing and positioned further rearward than the front foot. When viewed from the side, a portion of the compression mechanism and a portion of the motor overlap with a first region extending the front foot upwards. When viewed from the side, a portion of the battery assembly overlaps with a second region that extends the rear foot upwards. When viewed from the side, the operating part is located at the upper end of the main housing, and is positioned overlapping with the first region. The rotating shaft of the motor shaft is configured to pass through the battery mounted on the battery assembly.

2. The inflator according to claim 1, characterized in that, The air intake and the air exhaust are located on two sides of the main body housing that are orthogonal to the left and right directions.

3. The inflator according to claim 1, characterized in that, The main body shell also includes: A front extension portion, which connects the front end portion of the grip portion and the base portion, wherein the mounting port is provided in the front extension portion; and The rear extension connects the rear end of the gripping part and the base. The exhaust port is located on the front extension.

4. The inflator according to claim 3, characterized in that, The air intake is located on the rear extension.

5. The inflator according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that, The exhaust port is located at the center of the front extension in the vertical direction, and the mounting port is located at the center of the front side of the front extension in the vertical direction.

6. The inflator according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that, The battery assembly portion is located on the rear extension portion.

7. The inflator according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that, The operation button is located in a position that allows operation while the user is holding the grip, and is located on the front extension.

8. The inflator according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that, The gripping portion separates above the base and extends opposite to the base.

9. The inflator according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that, The compression mechanism is housed in the front extension.

10. The inflator according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The motor, the compression mechanism, and the battery assembly are positioned below the gripping part.

11. The inflator according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The battery assembly is configured such that the battery is assembled into the battery assembly by sliding downward and removed from the battery assembly by sliding upward.

12. The inflator according to claim 5, characterized in that, The battery assembly is configured such that the battery is assembled into the battery assembly by sliding downward and removed from the battery assembly by sliding upward.

13. The inflator according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, It also includes the hose, one end of which is connected to the compression mechanism via the mounting port. The protruding direction of the hose from the mounting port is approximately parallel to the extending direction of the grip.

14. The inflator according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, It also has: The hose, one end of which is connected to the compression mechanism via the mounting port; and A cover component that covers the base end of the hose that will protrude from the mounting port toward the outside of the main housing.

15. The inflator according to claim 13, characterized in that, It also includes a cover component that covers the base end of the hose that protrudes from the mounting port toward the outside of the main housing.

16. The inflator according to claim 7, characterized in that, It also includes an operating component, which is positioned in the grip portion in a manner that allows for user operation. The motor is driven according to the operation of the operating components. The operating components and the operating buttons are positioned so that they can be operated separately when the user holds the grip.

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