Work machine

Abstract

In the present specification, a technology capable of improving the processing performance of a work machine is provided. The work machine disclosed in the present specification includes: a work portion having a length direction in a front-rear direction; an electric motor that drives the work portion; a control unit that controls the electric motor; a housing that includes a housing main body that holds the work portion at a rear side of the work portion and that accommodates the electric motor and the control unit, and a handle that extends from the housing main body and that is held by one hand of a user; a battery pack that is installed to the housing and that is capable of supplying electric power to the electric motor by means of the control unit; and a trigger lever that is provided to the handle and that causes the electric motor to operate by being pulled toward the handle side by a finger of the user. A front end of the control unit is disposed at a position that is further rearward than a rear end of the trigger lever.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The technology disclosed in this specification relates to operating machinery. Background Technology

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a work machine comprising: a work section having a length direction in a front-rear direction; an electric motor driving the work section; a control unit controlling the electric motor; a housing containing the work section behind it, holding the work section and housing the electric motor and the control unit, and a handle extending from the housing and held by a user's hand; a battery pack mounted in the housing, capable of supplying power to the electric motor via the control unit; and a trigger lever located on the handle, which operates the electric motor by being pulled towards the handle by the user's finger. The front end of the control unit is positioned forward of the front end of the trigger lever.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2021 / 0339420 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem the invention aims to solve

[0007] In a work machine like the one in Patent Document 1, the user sometimes wants to change the machine's posture while holding the handle. If it is difficult for the user to change the machine's posture, there is a possibility that the user cannot work comfortably. This specification provides a technique that can improve the handling performance of the work machine. Furthermore, in this specification, "ease of changing the posture of the work machine for the user" is sometimes referred to as "the handling performance of the work machine."

[0008] Solution for solving the problem

[0009] The work machinery disclosed in this specification includes: a work unit having a length direction in the front-to-back direction; an electric motor that drives the work unit; a control unit that controls the electric motor; a housing comprising a housing body and a handle, the housing body holding the work unit behind the work unit and housing the electric motor and the control unit, the handle extending from the housing body and held by one hand of a user; a battery pack installed in the housing, capable of supplying power to the electric motor via the control unit; and a trigger lever located on the handle, which operates the electric motor by being pulled towards the handle by the user's finger. The front end of the control unit is positioned further rearward than the rear end of the trigger lever.

[0010] For user safety, handles are typically located separately from the working part (e.g., at the rear of the machine). Furthermore, the working part is usually quite heavy relative to the overall weight of the machine. Therefore, in a machine, heavy components (such as the working part) tend to shift forward of the trigger lever, increasing the torque when using the trigger lever's tip as a fulcrum. Since the area near the trigger lever's tip is where the user hooks their fingers, increased torque when using the trigger lever's tip as a fulcrum reduces the machine's handling performance. To address this, based on the aforementioned structure, the front of the control unit, which is also a relatively heavy component of the machine, is positioned further rearward than the rear of the trigger lever. This reduces the torque when using the trigger lever's tip as a fulcrum by utilizing the weight of the control unit, thereby improving the machine's handling performance. Attached Figure Description

[0011] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the chainsaw T1 of Example 1, viewed from the upper left front.

[0012] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of the chainsaw T1 in Embodiment 1, showing the state of the battery pack B1 after being removed from the battery interface 160, viewed from the upper right rear.

[0013] Figure 3 This is a bottom view of the chainsaw T1 in Embodiment 1 as seen from below.

[0014] Figure 4 This is a perspective view of the chainsaw T1 in Embodiment 1, showing the state in which the sprocket cover 18 has been removed from the outer casing 14, viewed from the upper left rear.

[0015] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of the internal structure near the base of the handle 16 of the chainsaw T1 in Embodiment 1, viewed from the left.

[0016] Figure 6This is a cross-sectional view of the internal structure of the outer casing 4 of the chainsaw T1 in Embodiment 1, viewed from the right.

[0017] Figure 7 This is a diagram showing the electric motor 64, motor shaft 80, cooling fan 82, power transmission mechanism 70, oil pump 68, sprocket 26, and working part 10 of the chainsaw T1 in Embodiment 1, viewed from the upper right front.

[0018] Figure 8 This is a diagram of the interior of the housing body 14 viewed from the front in the chainsaw T1 of Embodiment 1, along a direction orthogonal to the axis A1 of the motor shaft 80.

[0019] Figure 9 This is a perspective view of the state in which the battery pack B2 has been removed from the battery interface 160, as seen from the upper right rear of the chainsaw T2 in Embodiment 2.

[0020] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view of the internal structure of the outer casing 4 of the chainsaw T2 in Embodiment 2, viewed from the right.

[0021] Figure 11 This is a perspective view of the chainsaw T3 in Example 3, showing the state of the battery pack B3 after being removed from the battery interface 360, as viewed from the upper right rear.

[0022] Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional view of the internal structure of the outer casing 4 of the chainsaw T3 in Embodiment 3, viewed from the right.

[0023] Figure 13 This is a perspective view of the state in which the battery pack B4 has been removed from the battery interface 360, as seen from the upper right rear of the chainsaw T4 in Example 4.

[0024] Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional view of the internal structure of the casing 4 of the chainsaw T4 in Embodiment 4, viewed from the right.

[0025] Figure 15 This is a perspective view of the modified chainsaw T1, showing the state of the battery interface 160 after the battery pack B1 has been removed, viewed from the upper right rear.

[0026] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0027] 4. Outer shell; 6. Guide rod; 6a. Notch; 8. Saw chain; 10. Working part; 12. Working cover; 14. Outer shell body; 14a. Head; 16. Handle; 18. Sprocket cover; 20. Hand guard; 22. First mounting part; 22a. Rotating shaft; 24. Second mounting part; 24a. Rotating shaft; 26. Sprocket; 28. 30. Pin; 32. Bolt; 36. Sprocket cover body; 38. Sleeve; 42. Locking component; 44. Locking component body; 46. Nut; 48. Claw; 50. Trigger lever; 50a. Rotating shaft; 50f. Front end of trigger lever; 50r. Rear end of trigger lever; 52. Trigger switch; 54. Locking component; 54a. Rotating shaft; 56a. Through hole; 56b. Through hole; 58a. Left locking lever; 58b. Right locking lever; 60. Torsion spring; 62. Control unit; 62G. Center of gravity of the control unit; 62f. Front end of the control unit; 62r. ​​Rear end of the control unit; 64. Electric motor; 64G. Center of gravity of the electric motor; 64f. Front end of the electric motor; 66. Oil tank; 68. Oil pump; 68a. Worm gear; 70. Power transmission mechanism; 70r. Rear end of the power transmission mechanism; 72. Reducer; 72a. First bevel gear; 7 2b. Second bevel gear; 74. Coil; 76. Stator; 78. Rotor; 80. Motor shaft; 82. Cooling fan; 82G. Center of gravity of cooling fan; 84. Drive shaft; 84a. Worm gear; 140. Left air inlet; 142. Right air inlet; 144. Left exhaust port; 146. Right exhaust port; 160. Battery interface; 162. Connecting terminal; 164. Hook; 166. Display unit; 202. First end; 204. Second end; 206. Protective body; 208. Plate; 210. Rib; 212. First rib; 214. Second rib; 216. Third rib ; 220, First extension; 222, Second extension; 224, Bending part; 360, Battery interface; 362, Connecting terminal; 364, Hook; 544, Exhaust port; 620, Controller housing; 660, Cover; 680, Suction part; 682, Oil supply line; 684, Spray part; B1, B2, B3, B4, Battery pack; B1f, B2f, B3f, B4f, Front end of battery pack; BG1, BG2, BG3, BG4, Center of gravity of battery pack; S, Wiring space; T1, T2, T3, T4, Chainsaw; TG1, TG2, TG3, TG4, Center of gravity of chainsaw. Detailed Implementation

[0028] The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, providing representative and non-limiting examples. 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, to provide further improved working machinery, the disclosed additional features and technical solutions may be used independently of other features and technical solutions, or in combination with other features and technical solutions.

[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 are not necessarily 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 original application disclosure and specific matters set forth in the claims. Furthermore, all numerical ranges and descriptions relating to organizations or groups are intended to limit the original application disclosure and specific matters set forth in the claims, with the intention of disclosing the aforementioned intermediate structures.

[0031] In one or more embodiments, the center of gravity of the electric motor may be positioned further back than the rear end of the trigger lever.

[0032] The electric motor is one of the heavier components in the working machinery. Based on the structure described above, the center of gravity of the electric motor is positioned further rearward than the rear end of the trigger lever. Therefore, the weight of the electric motor can reduce the torque when the front end of the trigger lever is used as a fulcrum. This further improves the handling performance of the working machinery.

[0033] In one or more embodiments, the front end of the electric motor may be positioned further back than the front end of the trigger lever.

[0034] Based on the above structure, the torque when using the front end of the trigger lever as a fulcrum can be further reduced by utilizing the weight of the electric motor. This allows for further improvement in the processing performance of the machinery.

[0035] In one or more embodiments, the front end of the battery pack may be positioned further back than the rear end of the trigger lever.

[0036] The battery pack is also a relatively heavy component in the working machinery. According to the structure described above, the front end of the battery pack is positioned further rearward than the rear end of the trigger lever. Therefore, the weight of the battery pack can reduce the torque when the front end of the trigger lever is used as a fulcrum. This further improves the handling performance of the working machinery.

[0037] In one or more embodiments, the working machine may further include a power transmission mechanism housed within the outer casing, which transmits power from the electric motor to the working part. Alternatively, the rear end of the power transmission mechanism may be positioned rearward than the front end of the trigger lever.

[0038] In operating machinery, a power transmission mechanism (including a reducer, etc.) is sometimes provided between the electric motor and the working part. The power transmission mechanism is also a relatively heavy component among the operating machinery's constituent parts. According to the above structure, the rear end of the power transmission mechanism is positioned further rearward than the front end of the trigger lever. Therefore, the weight near the rear end of the power transmission mechanism can be used to reduce the torque when the front end of the trigger lever is used as a fulcrum. This further improves the handling performance of the operating machinery.

[0039] In one or more embodiments, the control unit may include a control board for controlling the electric motor and a controller housing for housing the control board. Alternatively, the controller housing may be made of metal.

[0040] In industrial machinery, metal is sometimes used for the controller housing to improve the cooling efficiency of the control board. Since metal is a relatively dense material, using a metal housing increases the weight of the control unit. This means the position of the control unit can easily affect the torque applied when the trigger lever's tip acts as a fulcrum. Based on the structure described above, a metal housing is used for the controller. Therefore, the cooling efficiency of the control board can be improved. Furthermore, based on the above structure, the torque reduction effect resulting from the control unit's configuration can be more significantly realized. Consequently, the improved processing performance of the industrial machinery described in this application can be more significantly realized.

[0041] In one or more embodiments, the electric motor may be a brushless motor. Alternatively, the control unit may include a switching element for switching the current supplied to the electric motor.

[0042] Generally speaking, when the electric motor is a brushless motor, the heat generated by the multiple switching elements results in a relatively large amount of heat generation in the control unit. In this case, it is highly necessary to use a metallic material for the controller housing in order to efficiently cool the control unit. Furthermore, if the controller housing is made of a metallic material, the improved processing performance of the work machinery of this application can be more significantly achieved, as mentioned above. Based on the above structure, since the electric motor is a brushless motor, it is highly likely that a metallic material will be used for the controller housing. Therefore, it is highly likely that the improved processing performance of the work machinery of this application can be more significantly achieved.

[0043] In one or more embodiments, the working unit may include a guide rod extending along the front-rear direction and a saw chain disposed around the periphery of the guide rod and traveling around the periphery of the guide rod by being driven by the electric motor. Alternatively, the working machine may function as a chainsaw.

[0044] Based on the above structure, the processing performance of the chainsaw can be improved.

[0045] In one or more embodiments, the working machine may also include an oil tank installed on the housing body to store lubricating oil for lubricating the saw chain. Alternatively, the oil tank may be located near the front end of the housing body.

[0046] In chainsaws, lubricating oil stored in an oil tank needs to be supplied to the saw chain (or guide rod) to lubricate it. If the distance between the oil tank and the saw chain (or guide rod) is large, the lubricating oil supply path from the oil tank to the saw chain (or guide rod) becomes longer, potentially leading to a larger machine size. To address this, according to the structure described above, the oil tank is located near the front end of the main body, near the saw chain (or guide rod). This shortens the lubricating oil supply path, thereby enabling a smaller machine size.

[0047] In one or more embodiments, the electric motor may include a stator and a rotor. Alternatively, the working machine may also include a motor shaft fixed to the rotor. Alternatively, the axis of the motor shaft may be arranged on a plane extending in a front-rear and vertical direction. Alternatively, the control unit may be arranged on the axis of the motor shaft.

[0048] Based on the above structure, the distance between the control unit and the electric motor can be shortened. Therefore, the distance of the wires connecting the control unit and the electric motor can be reduced. This allows for the miniaturization of the work machinery.

[0049] In one or more embodiments, the distance from the axis to the front end of the control unit may be less than the distance from the axis to the rear end of the control unit.

[0050] Generally, electric motors have a roughly axisymmetric shape along the axis of the motor shaft. According to the above structure, the center position of the control unit in the longitudinal direction can be offset rearward along the radial direction of the axis. Thus, in the radial direction of the axis, the center position of the control unit can be offset rearward relative to the center position of the electric motor. With this structure, it is easy to position the wires that electrically connect the control unit and the electric motor behind the electric motor. The wires positioned behind the electric motor are located further rearward than the rear end of the trigger lever. In this case, the weight of the wires can reduce the torque when the front end of the trigger lever is used as a fulcrum. Therefore, the handling performance of the machine can be further improved.

[0051] In one or more embodiments, the control unit, the electric motor, and the oil tank may be arranged in a generally aligned row when the interior of the housing body is viewed from the front along a direction orthogonal to the axis of the motor shaft.

[0052] Based on the above structure, the main body of the outer casing can be miniaturized in the radial direction of the axis. That is, the operating machinery can be miniaturized in the radial direction of the axis.

[0053] (Example 1)

[0054] like Figure 1 As shown, the working machine in this embodiment is a chainsaw T1. The chainsaw T1 is a so-called pruning chainsaw mainly used for cutting wood, branches, etc. The overall weight of the chainsaw T1 is approximately 2000g, which is relatively lightweight. Therefore, the chainsaw T1 can be carried with one hand.

[0055] The chainsaw T1 includes a housing 4, a guide bar 6, a saw chain 8, a handguard 20, and a battery pack B1. The guide bar 6 is an elongated, plate-like member that protrudes forward from the housing 4 and is mounted on the housing 4. The guide bar 6 is made of a metal material, such as iron. The saw chain 8 has multiple interconnected cutters (not shown) and is mounted along the periphery of the guide bar 6. The battery pack B1, which is approximately rectangular in shape, is mounted on the housing 4. The chainsaw T1 uses power supplied from the battery pack B1 to propel the saw chain 8 along the periphery of the guide bar 6.

[0056] As the guide rod 6, various guide rods can be installed according to the content of the cutting operation. The radius of curvature of the top end of the guide rod 6 is, for example, 15 mm. In this embodiment, the chainsaw T1 causes the saw chain 8 to travel along the periphery of the guide rod 6 at a speed of, for example, 8 m / s. In this specification, the guide rod 6 and the saw chain 8 are sometimes collectively referred to as the "working section 10". In this embodiment, the weight of the working section 10 is, for example, about 180 g. In addition, a working cover 12 is provided on the housing 4 to cover a portion of the working section 10. Therefore, the user performs the cutting operation by pressing the part of the working section 10 not covered by the working cover 12 against the object being cut (e.g., a tree branch). At this time, the maximum load that the user applies to the chainsaw T1 is assumed to be about 20 N.

[0057] In the following description, along the length of the guide rod 6, the direction from the outer casing 4 toward the guide rod 6 is defined as the forward direction, and the direction from the guide rod 6 toward the outer casing 4 is defined as the backward direction. Furthermore, the direction orthogonal to the forward / backward direction and from the working section 10 toward the working cover 12 is defined as the upward direction, and the direction from the working cover 12 toward the working section 10 is defined as the downward direction. Additionally, the direction orthogonal to both the forward / backward and up / down directions is defined as the left / right direction. Furthermore, in Figures 1-15 In order to simplify the illustration, the saw chain 8 is shown as a ring-shaped component coplanar with the guide rod 6.

[0058] The housing 4 includes a housing body 14, a handle 16, a first mounting portion 22, and a second mounting portion 24. The housing body 14 has a generally cuboid shape that slopes upwards from below relative to the front-to-back direction as it moves from front to rear. The housing body 14, together with the sprocket cover 18, holds the working part 10 at the front. The handle 16 is attached to the lower front portion of the housing body 14. The handle 16 has a generally cylindrical shape that slopes downwards from above relative to the front-to-back direction as it moves from front to rear. The first mounting portion 22 protrudes downwards from the housing 4 and is positioned near the base of the handle 16. The second mounting portion 24 protrudes downwards from the housing 4 and is positioned near the top of the handle 16. Handguards 20 are mounted on the first mounting portion 22 and the second mounting portion 24. The housing 4 (housing body 14, handle 16, first mounting portion 22, and second mounting portion 24) is made of a material with a Young's modulus greater than 100 MPa. In this embodiment, the housing 4 is made of a plastic material such as polyamide. Although the Young's modulus of polyamide sometimes varies depending on the surrounding environment, it can be said to be at least greater than 5000 MPa. In addition, the parts where the user's fingers are placed (the head 14a of the housing body 14 and the area around the handle 16) are coated with a rubber material such as nitrile rubber.

[0059] Battery pack B1 may contain, for example, rechargeable secondary batteries such as lithium-ion batteries. The output voltage of battery pack B1 is, for example, 10V. The battery capacity of battery pack B1 is, for example, 1.5Ah. The weight of battery pack B1 is, for example, approximately 215g. Figure 3 As shown, a display unit 166 is provided on the lower surface of the battery pack B1. The display unit 166 informs the user of the remaining power of the battery pack B1 by changing the display in accordance with the remaining power of the battery pack B1.

[0060] like Figure 2 As shown, a battery interface 160 for detachably receiving the battery pack B1 is provided at the top of the handle 16. The battery pack B1 is installed by sliding from the rear upper part to the front lower part relative to the battery interface 160. Furthermore, the battery interface 160 has a connection terminal 162 for connecting to terminals (not shown) of the battery pack B1. The connection terminal 162 connects to the control unit 62 described later (see reference...). Figure 6 ) and trigger switch 52 (refer to Figure 6 Electrical connection. When battery pack B1 is installed in battery interface 160, the terminals of battery pack B1 and connection terminal 162 are electrically connected. This allows power to be supplied from battery pack B1 to control unit 62 and trigger switch 52.

[0061] like Figure 1 As shown, with the battery pack B1 installed in the battery interface 160, the outer surfaces of the battery pack B1 and the handle 16 are smoothly connected. Furthermore, with the hook 164 provided on the battery pack B1 pressed in, the battery pack B1 can be removed by sliding it relative to the battery interface 160 from the lower front to the upper rear.

[0062] like Figure 4 As shown, the sprocket cover 18 includes a sprocket cover body 36 and a locking member 42. The sprocket cover body 36 has a sleeve 38. The locking member 42 includes a locking member body 44, a nut 46, and a claw 48. Inside the sprocket cover 18, the sprocket 26 is exposed outside the housing body 14. The saw chain 8 is mounted from the guide rod 6 to the sprocket 26. Furthermore, a notch 6a extending in the front-rear direction is formed in the guide rod 6. Pins 28 and 30 and bolts 32, which are fixed protruding from the left side of the housing body 14, are inserted into the notch 6a from the right side.

[0063] By from Figure 4In the indicated state, a bolt 32 is inserted into the sleeve 38 of the sprocket cover body 36, and the nut 46 of the locking member 42 is connected to the bolt 32 passing through the sleeve 38, thereby enabling the sprocket cover 18 to be installed on the housing body 14. With the nut 46 connected to the bolt 32, the guide rod 6 is clamped and fixed between the housing body 14 and the sprocket cover 18. By loosening the bolt 32 and the nut 46, the user can slide the guide rod 6 relative to the housing body 14 in the back-and-forth direction, thereby changing the distance between the guide rod 6 and the sprocket 26 and adjusting the tension of the saw chain 8.

[0064] The user can tighten or loosen the bolt 32 and nut 46 by rotating the claw 48, which is positioned to the left relative to the locking member body 44, about the axis of the bolt 32. Thus, the user can connect the nut 46 to the bolt 32 with sufficient tightening torque without the use of special tools. Additionally, as... Figure 1 As shown, the claw 48 is normally held in a folded position along the locking member body 44 by a torsion spring (not shown).

[0065] like Figure 2 As shown, a trigger lever 50 for the user to operate the working unit 10 is disposed on the lower surface near the base of the handle 16. Figure 5 As shown, the trigger lever 50 is supported on the housing 4 in a manner that allows it to rotate about a rotation axis 50a extending in the left-right direction. The user can pull the trigger lever 50 towards the handle 16 for operation. Furthermore, in this specification, the front end of the portion of the trigger lever 50 exposed on the outside of the handle 16 is simply referred to as "front end 50f," and the rear end of the portion of the trigger lever 50 exposed on the outside of the handle 16 is simply referred to as "rear end 50r."

[0066] A trigger switch 52 is located inside the housing 4. This trigger switch 52 detects the user's pulling action on the trigger lever 50. The trigger switch 52 is positioned directly above the trigger lever 50, spanning between the handle 16 and the housing body 14. The trigger switch 52 is connected to the control unit 62 described later (see reference). Figure 6 Electrical connection. During the pull-up operation of the trigger lever 50, the trigger switch 52 outputs a trigger-on signal to the control unit 62. Furthermore, a locking member 54 is provided inside the housing 4, which switches between a state allowing the user to operate the trigger lever 50 and a state prohibiting operation. The locking member 54 is positioned directly above the trigger lever 50 and in front of the trigger switch 52. The locking member 54 is supported on the housing 4 in a manner that allows rotation about a rotation axis 54a extending in the left-right direction.

[0067] When the locking member 54 is rotated upwards, it mechanically interferes with the trigger lever 50, thus preventing the trigger lever 50 from rotating upwards. When the locking member 54 is rotated downwards, it does not interfere with the trigger lever 50, thereby allowing the trigger lever 50 to rotate upwards.

[0068] like Figure 1 As shown, the locking member 54 has a left locking lever 58a, which protrudes to the outside of the housing 4 through a through hole 56a provided on the left side of the housing 4. Figure 2 As shown, the locking member 54 has a right locking lever 58b, which protrudes to the outside of the housing 4 through a through hole 56b on the right side of the housing 4. The left locking lever 58a and the right locking lever 58b will be collectively referred to as "locking lever 58" below. The user can rotate the locking member 54 using the locking lever 58.

[0069] The trigger lever 50 and locking member 54 utilize a torsion spring 60 (see reference). Figure 5 They are interconnected. The torsion spring 60 exerts a force on the trigger lever 50 to rotate downwards and on the locking member 54 to rotate upwards. Therefore, when the user releases the trigger lever 50, the force of the torsion spring 60 causes the trigger lever 50 to rotate to the downward position. Furthermore, when the user releases the locking lever 58, the force of the torsion spring 60 causes the locking member 54 to rotate to the upward position.

[0070] For example, when using the chainsaw T1, the user holds the handle 16 with their right hand and rests their left hand on their head 14a to hold the chainsaw T1. If the user presses the locking lever 58 with their right thumb from this state, it becomes a state that allows the user to operate the trigger lever 50. In this state, the user drives the working unit 10 by pulling up the operating trigger lever 50 with their right index finger.

[0071] (Structure of Hand Guard 20)

[0072] Figure 1 The handguard 20 shown is a protective device for the user's hand holding the handle 16. If the saw chain 8 breaks during a cutting operation (while the work unit 10 is being driven), the broken saw chain 8 may sometimes fly off the guide bar 6 with its momentum. In such a case, the handguard 20 can prevent the saw chain 8 flying off the guide bar 6 from colliding with the user's handle 16 (see reference 10). Figure 1(This refers to the hand contact.) The hand guard 20 is made of a material with a Young's modulus in the range of 1 MPa to 100 MPa. In this embodiment, the hand guard 20 is made of a rubber material such as nitrile rubber. Although the Young's modulus of nitrile rubber sometimes varies depending on the surrounding environment, it can be said to be in the range of 1 MPa to 10 MPa.

[0073] The handguard 20 includes a first end 202, a second end 204, and a protective body 206 extending continuously between the first end 202 and the second end 204. The first end 202 is mounted to a first mounting portion 22 in a manner rotatable about a rotation axis 22a extending in the left-right direction. The first end 202 is positioned near the base end of the handle 16 by being mounted to the first mounting portion 22. Furthermore, the second end 204 is mounted to a rotation axis 24a extending in the left-right direction (see reference). Figure 2 It is mounted to the second mounting part 24 by means of rotation. The second end 204 is disposed near the top of the handle 16 by being mounted to the second mounting part 24.

[0074] The protective body 206 includes a plate-shaped portion 208 and a plurality of ribs 210 protruding downward from the lower surface of the plate portion 208 (see reference). Figure 3 The plate portion 208 is configured such that its upper surface faces the handle 16. In this embodiment, the thickness of the plate portion 208 (the thickness of the plate portion 208 in the direction orthogonal to the upper and lower surfaces) is, for example, about 5 mm.

[0075] like Figure 3 As shown, when viewed from below, the chain saw T1 has a generally rectangular plate portion 208. The plate portion 208 has a width, for example, approximately 29 mm, located to the left of the left surface of the guide rod 6. The plate portion 208 has a width, for example, approximately 30 mm, located to the right of the right surface of the guide rod 6. Furthermore, the plate portion 208 has a width, for example, approximately 30 mm, located to the right of the handle 16 (see reference). Figure 1 The left surface of the handle 16 has a width of approximately 30 mm on the left side. The plate portion 208 has a width of approximately 0.5 mm on the right side of the handle 16.

[0076] The plurality of ribs 210 include a first rib 212 extending along the lower surface of the plate portion 208 in a front-rear direction, a second rib 214 extending along the lower surface of the plate portion 208 in a left-right direction, and a third rib 216 extending along the periphery of the lower surface of the plate portion 208. Four first ribs 212 are arranged in the left-right direction. When viewed from below, the first ribs 212 extend in a generally straight line between the first end 202 and the second end 204. Furthermore, three second ribs 214 are arranged in the front-rear direction. The first ribs 212 and the second ribs 214 connect at mutually orthogonal portions. The second ribs 214 connect to the third ribs 216 at their left and right ends.

[0077] like Figure 6 As shown, the plate portion 208 includes a first extension 220 extending away from the handle 16 as it moves from the base end towards the top end, a second extension 222 extending away from the handle 16 as it moves from the top end towards the base end, and a bend 224 connecting the first extension 220 and the second extension 222. The length of the first extension 220 in the extending direction is shorter than the length of the second extension 222 in the extending direction. The bending angle of the bend 224 is, for example, 100°. The radius of curvature of the bend 224 is, for example, 18 mm. Thus, in its natural state (the state where no external force is applied to the handguard 20), the handguard 20 has a shape that protrudes outward when viewed from the handle 16.

[0078] In the handguard 20 configured as described above, the handguard 20 is more easily elastically deformed than the outer shell 4. The handguard 20 is configured, for example, to begin deforming by applying a predetermined load of 5 N or less from a direction opposite to the lower surface of the plate portion 208. Furthermore, the phrase "begins to deform" here means that the elastic strain of the handguard 20 is greater than 1%. Therefore, the user can deform the handguard 20 with a relatively small load.

[0079] (Internal structure of chainsaw T1)

[0080] like Figure 6 As shown, the control unit 62, electric motor 64, oil tank 66, oil pump 68, reducer 72 and cooling fan 82 are housed inside the main body 14.

[0081] like Figure 7 As shown, the electric motor 64 is an internal rotor type brushless DC motor. The electric motor 64 includes a stator 76 with a coil 74 wound around it and a rotor 78 disposed inside the stator 76 and equipped with a permanent magnet (not shown). In this embodiment, the weight of the electric motor 64 (coil 74, stator 76, rotor 78) is, for example, approximately 180g. Furthermore, a motor shaft 80 is fixed to the rotor 78, passing through the center of the stator 76 and the rotor 78. Therefore, the electric motor 64 is configured to drive the motor shaft 80 to rotate.

[0082] The cooling fan 82 is fixed to the motor shaft 80 at a position lower than the rotor 78. The cooling fan 82 rotates as the motor shaft 80 rotates. When the cooling fan 82 rotates, it moves along the axis A1 of the motor shaft 80 (refer to...). Figure 6 This creates an airflow from bottom to top. At this time, air enters from the outside of the outer casing 4 through the left air inlet 140 (see reference). Figure 1 ) and right air intake 142 (refer to Figure 2 Air is drawn inwards from the inside of the casing 4 through the left exhaust port 144 (see reference). Figure 1 ) and right exhaust port 146 (refer to) Figure 2 The exhaust is discharged to the outside. Thus, the cooling fan 82 can cool the electric motor 64 as it is driven by the electric motor 64.

[0083] The reducer 72 includes a first bevel gear 72a fixed to the motor shaft 80 at a position lower than the cooling fan 82, and a second bevel gear 72b meshing with the first bevel gear 72a. The second bevel gear 72b is fixed to the drive shaft 84. The drive shaft 84 is supported on the housing 4 (see reference ) in a manner that allows it to rotate about a rotation axis extending in the left-right direction. Figure 1 A sprocket 26 is fixed to the left of the second bevel gear 72b on the drive shaft 84. Therefore, when the electric motor 64 is driven, the rotational motion of the motor shaft 80 is transmitted to the saw chain 8 via the reducer 72, the drive shaft 84, and the sprocket 26. As a result, the saw chain 8 rotates around the sprocket 26 and the guide rod 6.

[0084] Figure 6 The oil tank 66 shown is a container for storing lubricating oil used to lubricate the saw chain 8. The oil tank 66 can hold a maximum of approximately 50 cc of lubricating oil. An oil inlet (not shown) is provided in the oil tank 66 for replenishing lubricating oil. A cover 660 is detachably installed on the oil inlet. The oil tank 66 is located near the front end of the housing body 14. Figure 2 As shown, the cap 660 of the fuel tank 66 and the fuel inlet are exposed outside the housing body 14. Therefore, the user can supply fuel to the fuel tank 66 by removing the cap 660 from the fuel inlet without disassembling the housing body 14.

[0085] like Figure 7 As shown, a worm gear 84a is fixed to the right of the second bevel gear 72b on the drive shaft 84. The worm gear 84a meshes with the worm wheel 68a of the oil pump 68. Therefore, when the electric motor 64 is driven, the rotational motion of the motor shaft 80 is transmitted to the oil pump 68 via the reducer 72, drive shaft 84, worm gear 84a, and worm wheel 68a. This drives the oil pump 68. When the oil pump 68 is driven, the oil is pumped through the oil tank 66 (see reference 64). Figure 6 The internal suction section 680 draws lubricating oil into the oil supply passage 682. Then, lubricating oil is supplied from the oil supply passage 682 via the ejection section 684, guide rod 6, and saw chain 8.

[0086] In this specification, the mechanism consisting of the reducer 72, drive shaft 84, and worm gear 84a is sometimes referred to as the "power transmission mechanism 70". Figure 6As shown, the power transmission mechanism 70 is disposed in the central portion of the housing body 14. The power transmission mechanism 70 is located below and in front of the electric motor 64. The power transmission mechanism 70 is positioned rearward of the fuel tank 66. In this embodiment, the weight of the power transmission mechanism 70 is, for example, approximately 110g.

[0087] The control unit 62 is positioned directly below the head 14a of the housing body 14. The control unit 62 is positioned above and behind the electric motor 64. A wiring space S is formed below the control unit 62 and behind the electric motor 64. Although not shown, most of the wires connecting the various components, such as the control unit 62 and the electric motor 64, are routed through the wiring space S.

[0088] The control unit 62 includes: a control board (not shown) on which an inverter circuit with multiple switching elements and a control circuit for controlling the operation of each switching element are mounted; and a controller housing 620, which is generally cuboid in shape and houses the control board. The controller housing 620 is made of a metal material such as aluminum. In this embodiment, the weight of the control unit 62 is, for example, approximately 60g.

[0089] During the period when the trigger switch 52 outputs a trigger-on signal, the control unit 62 converts the DC power supplied from the battery pack B1 into three-phase AC power and supplies it to the electric motor 64. If the trigger switch 52 does not output a trigger-on signal, the control unit 62 blocks the power supply from the battery pack B1 to the electric motor 64. Furthermore, the control unit 62 controls the drive of the electric motor 64 to cause the saw chain 8 to travel in a predetermined direction. This predetermined direction of travel refers to the direction in which the saw chain 8 travels forward above the guide bar 6 and backward below the guide bar 6.

[0090] (Positional relationship of the main components relative to axis A1)

[0091] Motor shaft 80 (reference) Figure 7 The axis A1 of the power transmission mechanism 70 is arranged on a plane extending in the front-back and vertical directions. The axis A1 is inclined relative to the vertical direction, moving from top to bottom and from back to front. In this embodiment, the inclination angle of the axis A1 relative to the vertical direction is 41°. The control unit 62 is arranged on the axis A1. The control unit 62 (controller housing 620) is arranged along a plane substantially orthogonal to the axis A1. The distance from the axis A1 to the front end 62f of the control unit 62 (coinciding with the front end of the controller housing 620) is less than the distance from the axis A1 to the rear end 62r of the control unit 62 (coinciding with the rear end of the controller housing 620). Furthermore, the drive shaft 84 of the power transmission mechanism 70 is arranged substantially orthogonal to the axis A1.

[0092] like Figure 8As shown, the outer casing 14 is viewed from the front along a direction orthogonal to axis A1 (see reference). Figure 1 Inside the unit, the control unit 62, electric motor 64, cooling fan 82, power transmission mechanism 70, sprocket 26, and oil tank 66 are arranged in a roughly row-like configuration from top to bottom. When viewed from the front along a direction orthogonal to axis A1, the center of gravity 62G of the control unit 62, the center of gravity 64G of the electric motor 64, and the center of gravity 82G of the cooling fan 82 are respectively located on axis A1.

[0093] When viewed from the front along a direction orthogonal to axis A1, the control unit 62, electric motor 64, and cooling fan 82 each have a shape that is approximately symmetrical about left and right (approximately axially symmetrical about axis A1). Although not shown, the handle 16 (see reference) Figure 1 ) and battery pack B1 (refer to Figure 1 It also has a roughly symmetrical shape (roughly axially symmetrical about axis A1). Furthermore, the sprocket 26 is positioned to the left of axis A1. The oil tank 66, oil pump 68, second bevel gear 72b, and worm gear 84a are positioned to the right of axis A1.

[0094] (Positional relationship of the main components relative to the trigger lever 50)

[0095] exist Figure 6 The diagram shows a straight line A2 extending vertically through the front end 50f of the trigger lever 50 and a straight line A3 extending vertically through the rear end 50r of the trigger lever 50.

[0096] The front end 62f of the control unit 62 is positioned rearward of the rear end 50r of the trigger lever 50. The front end 64f of the electric motor 64 is positioned rearward of the front end 50f of the trigger lever 50 and forward of the rear end 50r of the trigger lever 50. The rear end 70r of the power transmission mechanism 70 (coinciding with the rear end of the first bevel gear 72a) is positioned rearward of the front end 50f of the trigger lever 50 and forward of the rear end 50r of the trigger lever 50. The front end B1f of the battery pack B1 is positioned rearward of the rear end 50r of the trigger lever 50. Furthermore, the center of gravity 62G of the control unit 62 is positioned rearward of the rear end 50r of the trigger lever 50. The center of gravity 64G of the electric motor 64 is positioned rearward of the rear end 50r of the trigger lever 50. The center of gravity 82G of the cooling fan 82 is positioned rearward of the front end 50f of the trigger lever 50 and forward of the rear end 50r of the trigger lever 50. The center of gravity BG1 of the battery pack B1 is positioned rearward of the rear end 50r of the trigger lever 50.

[0097] In the chainsaw T1 configured as described above, the center of gravity TG1 of the chainsaw T1 is located inside the housing 4, between lines A2 and A3. Alternatively, the center of gravity TG1 can be described as being at a position overlapping with the locking member 54. Furthermore, the distance from line A2 to the center of gravity TG1 is approximately the same as the distance from line A3 to the center of gravity TG1. In this embodiment, the center of gravity TG1 is determined with the lubricating oil fully stored in the oil tank 66, the battery pack B1 installed in the battery interface 160, and all other components installed.

[0098] (Example 2)

[0099] like Figure 9 As shown, the working machine in this embodiment is chainsaw T2. Chainsaw T2 has a structure substantially the same as chainsaw T1 in Embodiment 1, except that it has battery pack B2 instead of battery pack B1. The following only describes the differences between chainsaw T2 and chainsaw T1.

[0100] Battery pack B2 may house rechargeable secondary batteries such as lithium-ion batteries. The output voltage of battery pack B2 is, for example, 10V. The battery capacity of battery pack B2 is, for example, 4.0Ah. The weight of battery pack B2 is, for example, approximately 375g. Like battery pack B1, battery pack B2 is mounted in a detachable manner relative to battery interface 160.

[0101] With battery pack B1 (refer to) Figure 2 In comparison, battery pack B2 is wider in the direction of extension of handle 16. The width of battery pack B2 in the left-right direction is the same as that of battery pack B1. The width of battery pack B2 in the direction orthogonal to the extension and left-right directions of handle 16 is the same as that of battery pack B1. Therefore, the volume of battery pack B2 is larger than that of battery pack B1.

[0102] like Figure 10 As shown, the front end B2f and center of gravity BG2 of battery pack B2 are positioned further rearward than the rear end 50r of trigger lever 50. Furthermore, the center of gravity TG2 of chainsaw T2 is located inside housing 4, between lines A2 and A3. In other words, the center of gravity TG2 is located near the front end of trigger switch 52. Moreover, the distance from line A2 to the center of gravity TG2 is greater than the distance from line A3 to the center of gravity TG2.

[0103] (Example 3)

[0104] like Figure 11As shown, the working machine in this embodiment is chainsaw T3. Chainsaw T3 has a structure substantially the same as chainsaw T1 in Embodiment 1, except that it has battery pack B3 instead of battery pack B1 and battery interface 360 ​​instead of battery interface 160. The following only describes the differences between chainsaw T3 and chainsaw T1.

[0105] Battery pack B3 may house rechargeable secondary batteries such as lithium-ion batteries. The output voltage of battery pack B3 is, for example, 18V. The battery capacity of battery pack B3 is, for example, 2.0Ah. The weight of battery pack B3 is, for example, approximately 375g. The width of battery pack B3 in the extension direction of handle 16 is the same as that of battery pack B1 (see reference). Figure 2 The same degree of difference. Compared to battery pack B1, battery pack B3 is wider in the left-right direction. Compared to battery pack B1, battery pack B3 is wider in the direction perpendicular to both the extension direction of handle 16 and the left-right direction. Therefore, the volume of battery pack B3 is larger than that of battery pack B1.

[0106] Battery pack B3 is mounted by sliding from the rear top to the front bottom relative to battery interface 360. Furthermore, battery interface 360 ​​includes connection terminals 362 for connecting to terminals (not shown) on battery pack B3. Connection terminals 362 and control unit 62 (see reference) Figure 12 ) and trigger switch 52 (refer to Figure 12 Electrical connection. When battery pack B3 is installed in battery interface 360, the terminals of battery pack B3 and connection terminal 362 are electrically connected. This allows power to be supplied from battery pack B3 to control unit 62 and trigger switch 52.

[0107] like Figure 12 As shown, with the battery pack B3 installed in the battery interface 360, the outer surfaces of the battery pack B3 and the handle 16 are smoothly connected. Furthermore, by attaching the hook 364 (see reference 16) to the battery pack B3... Figure 11 With the battery in the inserted position, slide the battery pack B3 from the lower front to the upper rear relative to the battery interface 360 ​​to remove the battery pack B3.

[0108] The front end B3f and center of gravity BG3 of the battery pack B3 are positioned further rearward than the rear end 50r of the trigger lever 50. Furthermore, the center of gravity TG3 of the chainsaw T3 is located inside the housing 4, between lines A2 and A3. In other words, the center of gravity TG3 is located near the front end of the trigger switch 52. Moreover, the distance from line A2 to the center of gravity TG3 is greater than the distance from line A3 to the center of gravity TG3. Additionally, the center of gravity TG3 of the chainsaw T3 is located at approximately the same position as the center of gravity TG2 of the chainsaw T2 in Embodiment 2.

[0109] (Example 4)

[0110] like Figure 13 As shown, the working machine in this embodiment is chainsaw T4. Chainsaw T4 has a structure substantially the same as chainsaw T3 of Embodiment 3, except that it has battery pack B4 instead of battery pack B3. The following description only details the differences between chainsaw T4 and chainsaw T3.

[0111] Battery pack B4 may house rechargeable secondary batteries such as lithium-ion batteries. The voltage of battery pack B4 is, for example, 18V. The battery capacity of battery pack B4 is, for example, 6.0Ah. The weight of battery pack B4 is, for example, approximately 670g. Like battery pack B3, battery pack B4 is mounted detachably relative to battery interface 360°.

[0112] With battery pack B3 (reference) Figure 11 In comparison, battery pack B4 is wider in the direction of extension of handle 16. The width of battery pack B4 in the left-right direction is the same as that of battery pack B3. The width of battery pack B4 in the direction orthogonal to the extension and left-right directions of handle 16 is the same as that of battery pack B3. Therefore, the volume of battery pack B4 is larger than that of battery pack B3.

[0113] like Figure 14 As shown, the front end B4f and center of gravity BG4 of the battery pack B4 are positioned further back than the rear end 50r of the trigger lever 50. Furthermore, the center of gravity TG4 of the chainsaw T4 is positioned inside the housing 4 and further back than the straight line A3. Alternatively, the center of gravity TG3 can be described as being located near the rear end of the trigger switch 52.

[0114] The chainsaws T1, T2, T3, and T4 are sometimes collectively referred to as "Chainsaw T".

[0115] (Modified Example)

[0116] In the above embodiments, the structure of a chainsaw T, which is a working unit 10 and includes a guide rod 6 and a saw chain 8, has been described. In other embodiments, the working machine may also be a reciprocating saw with a saw blade as the working unit 10. Furthermore, when the working machine is a reciprocating saw, it may not include an oil tank 66 and an oil pump 68.

[0117] In the above embodiments, the structure of the electric motor 64 as an internal rotor type brushless DC motor has been described. In other embodiments, the electric motor 64 may also be an external rotor type brushless DC motor. Alternatively, the electric motor 64 may also be a brushed motor, or other types of electric motors.

[0118] In the above embodiments, the structure of the outer shell 4 using a plastic material such as polyamide has been described. In another embodiment, the outer shell 4 can also be made of a plastic material other than polyamide (e.g., polycarbonate) as long as the material has a Young's modulus greater than 100 MPa. In yet another embodiment, the outer shell 4 can also be made of a material other than plastic (e.g., a metal material such as aluminum) as long as the material has a Young's modulus greater than 100 MPa.

[0119] In the above embodiments, the structure of the handguard 20 using a rubber material such as nitrile rubber has been described. In other embodiments, the handguard 20 may also use a rubber material other than nitrile rubber (e.g., ethylene propylene rubber) as long as the material has a Young's modulus in the range of 1 MPa to 100 MPa.

[0120] In the above embodiments, at least one of the first end 202 and the second end 204 of the handguard 20 may be mounted in a non-rotatable manner to at least one of the corresponding first mounting portion 22 and the second mounting portion 24.

[0121] In the above embodiments, the plurality of ribs 210 of the handguard 20 may also not have at least one of the first rib 212, the second rib 214 and the third rib 216.

[0122] In the above embodiments, the handguard 20 was described as being formed of a material with a relatively low Young's modulus (rubber material), making it more easily elastically deformable compared to the outer shell 4. In another embodiment, the handguard 20 may also be configured as a so-called spring door structure capable of swinging relative to the outer shell 4. In this case, if a load is applied to the handguard 20 while it is in contact with an obstacle, the handguard 20 deforms from a closed state to an open state. In yet another embodiment, the handguard 20 may also be configured to be able to translate between a first position and a second position relative to the outer shell 4. In this case, if a load is applied to the handguard 20 while it is in contact with an obstacle, the handguard 20's position relative to the outer shell 4 changes by translating between the first and second positions. Furthermore, when deforming the handguard 20 using methods other than elastic deformation, the handguard 20 may be made of materials other than rubber (e.g., plastic materials such as polyamide) or materials with a Young's modulus greater than 100 MPa.

[0123] In the above embodiments, the chainsaw T (an example of a working machine) may also lack a power transmission mechanism 70. In this case, for example, multiple teeth may be formed on the sprocket 26, and these teeth may mesh with a first bevel gear 72a fixed to the motor shaft 80. Furthermore, the worm gear 68a of the oil pump 68 may also mesh with the first bevel gear 72a fixed to the motor shaft 80.

[0124] In the above embodiments, the structure of the controller housing 620 using a metal material such as aluminum has been described. In another embodiment, the controller housing 620 may also be made of a metal material other than aluminum (e.g., iron). In yet another embodiment, the controller housing 620 may also be made of a material other than a metal material (e.g., a plastic material such as polyamide).

[0125] like Figure 15 As shown, the chainsaw T1 (an example of a working machine) can also have an exhaust port 544 instead of the exhaust ports 144 and 146 in the above embodiments. The exhaust port 544 is located at the head 14a of the housing body 14. In this case, when the cooling fan 82 rotates, air is exhausted from the inside of the housing 4 to the outside through the exhaust port 544 instead of the exhaust ports 144 and 146. In this case, the cooling fan 82 can also cool the electric motor 64 as it is driven. In addition, the above structure can also be applied to chainsaws T2, T3, and T4.

[0126] (Correspondence)

[0127] As described above, in one or more embodiments, the chainsaw T (an example of a working machine) includes: a working section 10 having a length direction in a front-rear direction; an electric motor 64 driving the working section 10; a control unit 62 controlling the electric motor 64; a housing 4 including a housing body 14 and a handle 16, the housing body 14 holding the working section 10 behind it and housing the electric motor 64 and the control unit 62, the handle 16 extending from the housing body 14 and held by one hand of the user; a battery pack B1 (or battery packs B2, B3, B4) mounted on the housing 4, capable of supplying power to the electric motor 64 via the control unit 62; and a trigger lever 50 located on the handle 16, which operates the electric motor 64 by being pulled towards the handle 16 by the user's finger. The front end 62f of the control unit 62 is positioned rearward than the rear end 50r of the trigger lever 50.

[0128] For user safety, the handle 16 is typically located separately from the working part (e.g., at the rear of the chainsaw T). Furthermore, the working part 10 is generally quite heavy relative to the chainsaw T as a whole. Therefore, in the chainsaw T, the weight (working part 10, etc.) tends to shift forward of the trigger lever 50's front end 50f, increasing the torque when the trigger lever 50's front end 50f is the fulcrum. Since the area near the trigger lever 50f is where the user grips, an increase in torque when the trigger lever 50's front end 50f is the fulcrum will decrease the chainsaw T's handling performance. To address this, according to the above structure, the front end 62f of the control unit 62, which is also a relatively heavy component of the chainsaw T, is positioned further rearward than the rear end 50r of the trigger lever 50. Therefore, the weight of the control unit 62 can be used to reduce the torque when the trigger lever 50's front end 50f is the fulcrum. Therefore, it can improve the processing performance of chainsaw T.

[0129] In one or more embodiments, the center of gravity 64G of the electric motor 64 is positioned further back than the rear end 50r of the trigger lever 50.

[0130] The electric motor 64 is also a relatively heavy component in the chainsaw T. According to the structure described above, the center of gravity 64G of the electric motor 64 is positioned further rearward than the rear end 50r of the trigger lever 50. Therefore, the weight of the electric motor 64 can be used to reduce the torque when the front end 50f of the trigger lever 50 is the fulcrum. This further improves the processing performance of the chainsaw T.

[0131] In one or more embodiments, the front end 64f of the electric motor 64 is positioned rearward than the front end 50f of the trigger lever 50.

[0132] Based on the above structure, the torque when the trigger operating lever 50's front end 50f is used as the fulcrum can be further reduced by utilizing the weight of the electric motor 64. Therefore, the processing performance of the chainsaw T can be further improved.

[0133] In one or more embodiments, the front end B1f of battery pack B1 (or the front end B2f of battery pack B2, the front end B3f of battery pack B3, and the front end B4f of battery pack B4) is positioned behind the rear end 50r of the trigger lever 50.

[0134] Battery pack B1 (or battery packs B2, B3, B4) is also a relatively heavy component in the chainsaw T. According to the above structure, the front end B1f of battery pack B1 (or the front end B2f of battery pack B2, the front end B3f of battery pack B3, and the front end B4f of battery pack B4) is positioned further rearward than the rear end 50r of the trigger lever 50. Therefore, the weight of battery pack B1 (or battery packs B2, B3, B4) can be used to reduce the torque when the front end 50f of the trigger lever 50 is the fulcrum. This further improves the processing performance of the chainsaw T.

[0135] In one or more embodiments, the chainsaw T further includes a power transmission mechanism 70 housed in the housing body 14, which transmits power from the electric motor 64 to the working section 10. The rear end 70r of the power transmission mechanism 70 is positioned rearward than the front end 50f of the trigger lever 50.

[0136] In chainsaw T, a power transmission mechanism 70 (including a reducer 72, etc.) is sometimes provided between the electric motor 64 and the working section 10. The power transmission mechanism 70 is also a relatively heavy component among the constituent parts of the chainsaw T. According to the above structure, the rear end 70r of the power transmission mechanism 70 is positioned further rearward than the front end 50f of the trigger operating lever 50. Therefore, the weight near the rear end 70r of the power transmission mechanism 70 can be used to reduce the torque when the front end 50f of the trigger operating lever 50 is the fulcrum. This further improves the processing performance of the chainsaw T.

[0137] In one or more embodiments, the control unit 62 includes a control board for controlling the electric motor 64 and a controller housing 620 for housing the control board. The controller housing 620 is made of metal.

[0138] In the chainsaw T, the controller housing 620 is sometimes made of metal to improve the cooling efficiency of the control board. Since metal is a relatively dense material, using metal for the controller housing 620 increases the weight of the control unit 62. That is, the position of the control unit 62 easily affects the torque when the trigger lever 50's front end 50f is used as a fulcrum. Based on the above structure, the controller housing 620 is made of metal. Therefore, the cooling efficiency of the control board can be improved. Furthermore, based on the above structure, the torque reduction effect brought about by the configuration of the control unit 62 can be more significantly realized. Thus, the improved processing performance of the chainsaw T of this application can be more significantly realized.

[0139] In one or more embodiments, the electric motor 64 is a brushless motor. The control unit 62 includes a switching element for switching the current supplied to the electric motor 64.

[0140] Generally speaking, when the electric motor 64 is a brushless motor, the heat generated by the multiple switching elements makes the heat output of the control unit 62 relatively large. In this case, it is highly necessary to use a metallic material for the controller housing 620 in order to efficiently cool the control unit 62. Furthermore, if the controller housing 620 is made of a metallic material, the improved processing performance of the chainsaw T of this application can be more significantly achieved, as described above. Based on the above structure, since the electric motor 64 is a brushless motor, it is highly likely that the controller housing 620 will be made of a metallic material. Therefore, it is highly likely that the improved processing performance of the chainsaw T of this application can be more significantly achieved.

[0141] In one or more embodiments, the working unit 10 includes a guide rod 6 extending in a front-rear direction and a saw chain 8 disposed around the periphery of the guide rod 6 and traveling around the periphery of the guide rod 6 by being driven by an electric motor 64. The working machine functions as a chainsaw T.

[0142] Based on the above structure, the processing performance of chainsaw T can be improved.

[0143] In one or more embodiments, the chainsaw T further includes an oil tank 66, which is mounted on the housing body 14 and stores lubricating oil for lubricating the saw chain 8. The oil tank 66 is located near the front end of the housing body 14.

[0144] In the chainsaw T, lubricating oil stored in the oil tank 66 needs to be supplied to the saw chain 8 (or guide rod 6) to lubricate it. If the distance between the oil tank 66 and the saw chain 8 (or guide rod 6) is large, the oil supply path 682 (an example of the lubricating oil supply path from the oil tank to the saw chain or guide rod) becomes longer, potentially leading to a larger chainsaw T. To address this, according to the structure described above, the oil tank 66 is positioned near the front end of the outer casing 14, i.e., near the saw chain 8 (or guide rod 6). Therefore, the oil supply path 682 can be shortened, thereby enabling a smaller chainsaw T.

[0145] In one or more embodiments, the electric motor 64 includes a stator 76 and a rotor 78. The chainsaw T also includes a motor shaft 80 fixed to the rotor 78. The axis A1 of the motor shaft 80 is disposed on a plane extending in the front-rear and vertical directions. The control unit 62 is disposed on the axis A1 of the motor shaft 80.

[0146] Based on the above structure, the distance between the control unit 62 and the electric motor 64 can be shortened. Therefore, the distance of the wires connecting the control unit 62 and the electric motor 64 can be reduced. This allows for miniaturization of the chainsaw T.

[0147] In one or more embodiments, the distance from axis A1 to the front end 62f of control unit 62 is less than the distance from axis A1 to the rear end 62r of control unit 62.

[0148] Generally, the electric motor 64 has a roughly axisymmetric shape along the axis A1 of the motor shaft 80. According to the above structure, the center position of the control unit 62 in the front-rear direction can be offset rearward along the radial direction of the axis A1. Therefore, in the radial direction of the axis A1, the center position of the control unit 62 can be offset rearward relative to the center position of the electric motor 64. With this structure, it is easy to position the wires that electrically connect the control unit 62 and the electric motor 64 behind the electric motor 64. That is, it is easy to position the wires further rearward relative to the trigger lever 50. The wires positioned behind the electric motor 64 are positioned further rearward than the rear end 50r of the trigger lever 50. In this case, the weight of the wires can be used to reduce the torque when the front end 50f of the trigger lever 50 is the fulcrum. Therefore, the processing performance of the chainsaw T can be further improved.

[0149] In one or more embodiments, when the interior of the housing body 14 is viewed from the front along a direction orthogonal to the axis A1 of the motor shaft 80, the control unit 62, the electric motor 64, and the oil tank 66 are arranged in a generally straight line.

[0150] Based on the above structure, the outer casing 14 can be miniaturized in the radial direction of axis A1. That is, the chainsaw T can be miniaturized in the radial direction of axis A1.

Claims

1. A type of operating machinery, wherein, The operating machinery includes: The work unit has a length direction in the front-to-back direction; An electric motor drives the working unit; A control unit that controls the electric motor; The housing includes a housing body and a handle. The housing body holds the working part behind the working part and houses the electric motor and the control unit. The handle extends from the housing body and is held by one hand of the user. A battery pack, mounted in the housing, is capable of supplying power to the electric motor via the control unit; and A trigger lever, located on the handle, activates the electric motor by being pulled towards the handle by the user's fingers. The front end of the control unit is positioned further rearward than the rear end of the trigger lever. When the direction orthogonal to the front-back direction and along the direction in which the trigger lever is pulled is defined as the upward direction, and its opposite direction is defined as the downward direction, the electric motor is positioned above the trigger lever. The center of gravity of the electric motor is located behind the rear end of the trigger lever. In the radial direction of the motor shaft axis of the electric motor, the center position of the control unit in the front-rear direction is offset rearward relative to the center position of the electric motor in the front-rear direction. The wires connecting the control unit and the electric motor are arranged behind the electric motor.

2. The operating machinery according to claim 1, wherein, The front end of the electric motor is positioned further back than the front end of the trigger lever.

3. The operating machinery according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The front end of the battery pack is positioned further back than the rear end of the trigger lever.

4. The operating machinery according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The machine also includes a power transmission mechanism housed within the main housing, which transmits power from the electric motor to the working section. The rear end of the power transmission mechanism is positioned further back than the front end of the trigger lever.

5. The operating machinery according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The control unit includes a control board for controlling the electric motor and a controller housing for housing the control board. The controller housing is made of metal.

6. The operating machinery according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The electric motor is a brushless motor. The control unit includes a switching element for switching the current supplied to the electric motor.

7. The operating machinery according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The working unit includes a guide rod extending along the front-rear direction and a saw chain disposed around the periphery of the guide rod and traveling around the periphery of the guide rod by being driven by the electric motor. The machine functions as a chainsaw.

8. The operating machinery according to claim 7, wherein, The machine also includes an oil tank, which is installed on the main body of the housing and stores lubricating oil for lubricating the saw chain. The fuel tank is located near the front end of the main body of the outer casing.

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