Work machine system and work machine

Abstract

The invention provides a work machine system and a work machine. Provided is a technique for improving the convenience of a work machine. A work machine system is provided with a work machine including a work unit, an electric motor, an operation unit, a power supply connection unit, and a control unit, a work machine holder, and a detection mechanism. The work machine can be switched between a first state and a second state in which a predetermined switching operation is required for the operation unit in order to switch to the first state. The control unit is configured so as to be able to execute a second state transition process for switching the work machine from the first state to the second state when a predetermined condition is satisfied. When the detection mechanism detects that the work machine is not held by the work machine holder, the predetermined condition includes that the placement time of the work machine is equal to or greater than a first predetermined time. When the detection mechanism detects that the work machine is held by the work machine holder, the predetermined condition includes that the placement time of the work machine is greater than or equal to a second predetermined time that is longer than the first predetermined time.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The technology disclosed in this specification relates to a working machine system and a working machine. Background Art

[0002] Patent document 1 discloses a working machine system, which includes a working machine and a working machine holder, wherein the working machine includes: a working part that performs working actions; an electric motor that drives the working part; an operating part that can be operated by a user, a power connection part that is connected to a power source; and a control part, and the working machine holder includes: a housing part that can at least accommodate the working part; and a mounting part that is mounted on the user in a detachable manner. The working machine can switch between a first state and a second state, wherein the working action is allowed in the first state and prohibited in the second state, and a predetermined switching operation of the operating part is required in order to switch to the first state.

[0003] Prior art literature

[0004] Patent Literature

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2008-067630 Summary of the invention

[0006] Problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] When the working machine of Patent Document 1 is placed in the first state for a long time, it is sometimes configured to automatically switch from the first state to the second state. However, when the working machine is placed in a state held by a working machine holder, it is expected that the user will use the working machine again later. Therefore, if the working machine automatically switches to the second state (regardless of the user's intention) while the working machine is held by the working machine holder, it may be inconvenient for the user. For example, when the user wants to use the working machine in the first state, a switching operation is required to switch the working machine from the second state to the first state, which causes inconvenience to the user. As a result, the convenience of the working machine may be deteriorated. In this specification, a technology that can improve the convenience of a working machine is provided.

[0008] Solutions for solving problems

[0009] The working machine system disclosed in this specification includes a working machine, a working machine holder, and a detection mechanism. The working machine includes: a working part that performs working action; an electric motor that drives the working part; an operating part that can be operated by a user; a power connection part that is connected to a power source; and a control part. The working machine holder includes: a housing part that can at least accommodate the working part; and a mounting part that is detachably mounted on the user. The detection mechanism detects whether the working machine is held by the working machine holder. The working machine can switch between a first state and a second state. In the first state, the working action is allowed. In the second state, the working action is prohibited. In order to switch to the first state, a predetermined switching operation of the operating part is required. The control part is configured in a manner that can execute a second state transition process that switches the working machine from the first state to the second state when a predetermined condition is satisfied. When the detection mechanism detects that the working machine is not held by the working machine holder, the predetermined condition includes that the idle time of the working machine becomes longer than a first predetermined time. When the detection mechanism detects that the working machine is held by the working machine holder, the predetermined condition includes that the idle time of the working machine becomes equal to or longer than a second predetermined time that is longer than the first predetermined time.

[0010] In the above-mentioned structure, when the working machine is placed in the first state, the working machine is automatically switched from the first state to the second state by the second state transition processing executed by the control unit. However, according to the above-mentioned structure, the condition for triggering the second state transition processing is difficult to be satisfied during the period when the working machine is held by the working machine holder compared to the period when the working machine is not held by the working machine holder. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the working machine from automatically switching from the first state to the second state during the period when the working machine is held by the working machine holder. As a result, it is possible to suppress the user from feeling troubled, and thus the convenience of the working machine can be improved.

[0011] Another working machine system disclosed in this specification includes a working machine, a working machine holder, and a detection mechanism. The working machine includes: a working part that performs working action; an electric motor that drives the working part; an operating part that can be operated by a user; a power connection part that is connected to a power source; and a control part. The working machine holder includes: a housing part that can at least accommodate the working part; and a mounting part that can be mounted on the user in a detachable manner. The detection mechanism detects whether the working machine is held by the working machine holder. The working machine can switch between a first state and a second state. In the first state, the working action is allowed. In the second state, the working action is prohibited. In order to switch to the first state, a predetermined switching operation of the operating part is required. The control part is configured in a manner that can execute a second state transition process that switches the working machine from the first state to the second state. When the detection mechanism detects that the working machine is not held by the working machine holder, if a predetermined condition is satisfied, the control part executes the second state transition process. When the detection mechanism detects that the working machine is held by the working machine holder, the control unit does not execute the second state transition process even if the predetermined condition is satisfied.

[0012] In the above-mentioned structure, when the working machine is placed in the first state, the working machine is automatically switched from the first state to the second state by the second state transition processing executed by the control unit. However, according to the above-mentioned structure, it is difficult to execute the second state transition processing during the period when the working machine is held by the working machine holder compared to the period when the working machine is not held by the working machine holder. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the working machine from automatically switching from the first state to the second state while the working machine is held by the working machine holder. As a result, it is possible to suppress the user from feeling troubled, and thus the convenience of the working machine can be improved.

[0013] The working machine disclosed in this specification can be held by a working machine holder. The working machine includes: a working part that performs working action; an electric motor that drives the working part; an operating part that can be operated by a user; a power connection part that is connected to a power source; a detection part that detects whether the working machine is held by the working machine holder; and a control part. The working machine can switch between a first state and a second state, in which the working action is allowed in the first state and the working action is prohibited in the second state, and a predetermined switching operation of the operating part is required to switch to the first state. The control part is configured to execute a second state transition process that switches the working machine from the first state to the second state when a predetermined condition is satisfied. When the detection part detects that the working machine is not held by the working machine holder, the predetermined condition includes that the standing time of the working machine becomes longer than a first predetermined time. When the detection part detects that the working machine is held by the working machine holder, the predetermined condition includes that the standing time of the working machine becomes longer than a second predetermined time that is longer than the first predetermined time.

[0014] In the above structure, when the working machine is placed in the first state, the second state transition process executed by the control unit automatically switches the working machine from the first state to the second state. However, according to the above structure, the condition for triggering the second state transition process is difficult to be satisfied during the period when the working machine is held by the working machine holder compared to the period when the working machine is not held by the working machine holder. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the working machine from automatically switching from the first state to the second state during the period when the working machine is held by the working machine holder. As a result, it is possible to suppress the user from feeling troubled, and thus the convenience of the working machine can be improved.

[0015] Another work machine disclosed in this specification can be held by a work machine holder. The work machine includes: a work unit that performs a work action; an electric motor that drives the work unit; an operating unit that can be operated by an operator; a power connection unit that is connected to a power source; a detection unit that detects whether the work machine is held by the work machine holder; and a control unit. The work machine can switch between a first state and a second state, in which the work action is allowed in the first state and the work action is prohibited in the second state, and a predetermined switching operation of the operating unit is required to switch to the first state. The control unit is configured to be able to perform a second state transition process that switches the work machine from the first state to the second state. When the detection unit detects that the work machine is not held by the work machine holder, the control unit executes the second state transition process if a predetermined condition is satisfied. When the detection unit detects that the work machine is held by the work machine holder, the control unit does not execute the second state transition process even if the predetermined condition is satisfied.

[0016] In the above-mentioned structure, when the working machine is placed in the first state, the working machine is automatically switched from the first state to the second state by the second state transition processing executed by the control unit. However, according to the above-mentioned structure, it is difficult to execute the second state transition processing during the period when the working machine is held by the working machine holder compared to the period when the working machine is not held by the working machine holder. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the working machine from automatically switching from the first state to the second state during the period when the working machine is held by the working machine holder. As a result, it is possible to suppress the user from feeling troubled, and thus the convenience of the working machine can be improved.

[0017] In addition, the term "idle time" in this specification refers to the time when the user does not use the work machine and leaves it alone. For example, the idle time includes the time when the operating part of the work machine is not continuously operated (no operation time) and the time when the work machine is continuously held by the work machine holder (holder holding time). BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] Figure 1 It is a perspective view of the pruning shears 4 of the working machine system 2 according to the first embodiment.

[0019] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of the cover 6 of the working machine system 2 according to the first embodiment.

[0020] Figure 3 This is a diagram showing a state in which the pruning shears 4 are taken out from the sheath 6 in the working machine system 2 of the first embodiment.

[0021] Figure 4This is a diagram showing a state in which the pruning shears 4 are held by the sheath 6 in the working machine system 2 according to the first embodiment.

[0022] Figure 5 This is a diagram showing the internal structure of the trimming shears 4 of the working machine system 2 according to the first embodiment as viewed from the right.

[0023] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing the structure of the vicinity of the scissor portion 10 of the working machine system 2 according to the first embodiment when the movable knife 18 is located at the open position as viewed from the left.

[0024] Figure 7 This is a diagram showing the structure of the vicinity of the scissor portion 10 of the working machine system 2 according to the first embodiment when the movable knife 18 is located in the closed position as viewed from the left.

[0025] Figure 8 This is a block diagram schematically showing the electrical system of the trimming shears 4 of the working machine system 2 according to the first embodiment.

[0026] Fig. 9 This is a flowchart of the first mode switching process executed by the control unit 96 of the trimming shears 4 in the working machine system 2 of the first embodiment.

[0027] Fig.10 This is a flowchart of the sheath retention determination process executed by the control unit 96 of the pruning shears 4 in the working machine system 2 of the first embodiment.

[0028] Fig.11 This is a flowchart of the second mode switching process executed by the control unit 96 of the trimming shears 4 in the working machine system 202 of the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0029] With reference to the accompanying drawings, representative and non-limiting specific examples of the present invention are described in detail below. This detailed description is intended only to show the details of preferred examples for implementing the present invention to those skilled in the art, and is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. In addition, the disclosed additional features and technical solutions can be used separately or together with other features and technical solutions to provide a further improved working machine system and working machine.

[0030] In addition, the combination of features and processes disclosed in the following detailed description is not necessary in the broadest sense for practicing the present invention, but is only recorded for the purpose of specifically illustrating the representative specific examples of the present invention. Moreover, when providing additional and useful embodiments of the present invention, the various features of the following representative specific examples and the various features described in the claims do not necessarily have to be combined in the specific examples or the order in which they are listed.

[0031] Different from the structures of the features described in the embodiments and / or claims, all the features described in this specification and / or claims are intended to be disclosed individually and independently of each other as limitations on the original disclosure and the specific matters described in the claims. Moreover, all numerical ranges and records involving groups or groups are intended to disclose their intermediate structures as limitations on the original disclosure and the specific matters described in the claims.

[0032] In one or more embodiments, the operating unit may include a trigger operating unit for causing the working unit to perform the working action. The first state may be an active state in which the control unit causes the electric motor to operate and causes the working unit to perform the working action when the trigger operating unit is operated. The second state may be a standby state in which the control unit does not cause the working unit to perform the working action even if the trigger operating unit is operated. The switching operation may include an active switching operation of the trigger operating unit. The second state transition process may be a standby state transition process for switching the working machine from the active state to the standby state.

[0033] Assuming that the working machine is automatically switched from the active state to the standby state while the working machine is held by the working machine holder, an activity switching operation is required to switch the working machine from the standby state to the active state when the user takes out the working machine from the working machine holder to work. As a result, it is inconvenient for the user and the convenience of the working machine may be reduced. According to the above-mentioned structure, it is possible to suppress the working machine from being automatically switched from the active state to the standby state while the working machine is held by the working machine holder. Therefore, there is no need for an activity switching operation when the user takes out the working machine from the working machine holder to work. As a result, it is possible to suppress the user from being inconvenient and thus improve the convenience of the working machine.

[0034] In one or more embodiments, the operating unit may include a power switch. The first state may be a power-on state in which power is supplied from the power supply to the control unit. The second state may be a power-off state in which power is not supplied from the power supply to the control unit. The switching operation may include operating the power switch. The second state transition process may be a power-off state transition process in which the operating machine is switched from the power-on state to the power-off state.

[0035] If it is assumed that the working machine is automatically switched from the power-on state to the power-off state while the working machine is held by the working machine holder, then when the user takes out the working machine from the working machine holder to work, it is necessary to operate the power switch to switch the working machine from the power-off state to the power-on state. As a result, it is inconvenient for the user and the convenience of the working machine may be reduced. According to the above-mentioned structure, it is possible to suppress the working machine from being automatically switched from the power-on state to the power-off state while the working machine is held by the working machine holder. Therefore, it is not necessary to operate the power switch when the user takes out the working machine from the working machine holder to work. As a result, it is possible to suppress the user from being inconvenient and thus improve the convenience of the working machine.

[0036] In one or more embodiments, the working machine may include a switch circuit that selectively connects and disconnects the power source and the electric motor. The switch circuit may electrically connect the power source and the electric motor when the detection mechanism detects that the working machine is not held by the working machine holder, or may electrically disconnect the power source and the electric motor when the detection mechanism detects that the working machine is held by the working machine holder.

[0037] Generally speaking, it is expected that the work performed by the working machine will be interrupted while the working machine is held by the working machine holder. Therefore, it does not matter even if the power supply from the power source to the electric motor is prohibited while the working machine is held by the working machine holder. On the contrary, if the power supply from the power source to the electric motor is allowed while the working machine is held by the working machine holder, power may be consumed unnecessarily. According to the above-mentioned structure, the power supply from the power source to the electric motor is prohibited while the working machine is held by the working machine holder. Thereby, unnecessary power consumption can be suppressed.

[0038] In one or more embodiments, the switch circuit may operate independently of the control unit.

[0039] If it is assumed that the switch circuit and the control unit operate in coordination, there is a possibility that the switch circuit will not operate as usual when the control unit malfunctions. As a result, although the working machine is held by the working machine holder, the switch circuit may allow the power supply from the power supply to the electric motor. Although the working machine is not held by the working machine holder, the switch circuit may prohibit the power supply from the power supply to the electric motor. According to the above-mentioned structure, the switch circuit and the control unit operate independently, so even if the control unit malfunctions, the switch circuit can operate as usual. As a result, the following situations can be suppressed: although the working machine is held by the working machine holder, the switch circuit allows the power supply from the power supply to the electric motor; although the working machine is not held by the working machine holder, the switch circuit prohibits the power supply from the power supply to the electric motor.

[0040] In one or more embodiments, the working section may include: a first knife; and a second knife that can move between an open position and a closed position relative to the first knife. The working action may be an action of moving the second knife from the open position to the closed position.

[0041] According to the above-mentioned structure, the working machine functions as a pair of scissors for cutting objects to be cut (for example, tree branches). In the work using scissors, other works are sometimes accompanied (for example, the work of collecting the objects to be cut using the scissors). Therefore, in the case where the working machine functions as a pair of scissors, it is considered that there are more opportunities to keep the working machine on the working machine holder in order to perform other works. Therefore, if the working machine is automatically switched from the first state to the second state while the working machine is held by the working machine holder, the user will find it particularly troublesome. Therefore, according to the above-mentioned structure, the effect of suppressing the working machine from automatically switching from the first state to the second state while the working machine is held by the working machine holder is significantly exerted.

[0042] In one or more embodiments, the detection mechanism may include: a magnetic sensor provided at one of the working machine and the working machine holder; and a magnet provided at the other of the working machine and the working machine holder.

[0043] According to the above-mentioned structure, the detection mechanism can be realized in a simple manner.

[0044] In one or more embodiments, the working machine holder may further include a protrusion, which protrudes from the inner surface of the housing and abuts against the working machine. The detection mechanism may include: a detection unit; and a detected unit, which is detected by the detection unit. One of the detection unit and the detected unit may be provided on the working machine. The other of the detection unit and the detected unit may be provided on the protrusion of the working machine holder.

[0045] In the above-mentioned structure, when the working machine is held by the working machine holder, if there is a deviation in the relative positional relationship between the detecting part and the detected part, the detection accuracy of the detection mechanism may be deteriorated. In this regard, according to the above-mentioned structure, the protrusion in the working machine holder that abuts against the working machine is provided with the other of the detecting part and the detected part. Therefore, when the working machine is held by the working machine holder, the other of the detecting part and the detected part is arranged near the working machine, and further arranged near one of the detecting part and the detected part provided on the working machine. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the deviation in the relative positional relationship between the detecting part and the detected part when the working machine is held by the working machine holder, and thus it is possible to improve the detection accuracy of the detection mechanism.

[0046] (Example 1: Working machine system 2)

[0047] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 As shown, the working machine system 2 includes pruning shears 4 and a sheath 6 .

[0048] Figure 1 The pruning shears 4 shown are mainly used to cut branches, etc. The pruning shears 4 are electric working machines that are operated by power supplied from a battery pack B. The user can hold and carry the pruning shears 4 with one hand.

[0049] The pruning shears 4 include: a housing 8; a scissor portion 10 that performs a cutting action; an operating portion 12 that can be operated by a user; and a display portion 14 that is used to display various information to the user. The scissor portion 10 includes a fixed blade 16 and a movable blade 18 that can rotate relative to the fixed blade 16. The operating portion 12 includes a trigger lever 20, a power switch 22, and an open position adjustment switch 24. The pruning shears 4 rotates the movable blade 18 relative to the fixed blade 16 according to the pulling operation of the trigger lever 20, but the details will be discussed later. In addition, the housing 8 includes: a grip portion 26 that is gripped by the user with one hand; a protective portion 28 that protects the user's finger that operates the trigger lever 20; and a battery mounting portion 30 that allows the battery pack B to be detachably mounted.

[0050] In this specification, the length direction of the grip portion 26 is defined as the front-to-back direction. In the front-to-back direction, the direction from the grip portion 26 toward the scissors portion 10 is defined as the front direction, and the opposite direction of the front direction is defined as the rear direction. Furthermore, the direction orthogonal to the front-to-back direction and along the rotation axis of the movable knife 18 is defined as the left-to-right direction. In the left-to-right direction, the direction from the movable knife 18 toward the fixed knife 16 is defined as the left direction, and the opposite direction of the left direction is defined as the right direction. Furthermore, the direction orthogonal to the front-to-back direction and the left-to-right direction is defined as the up-down direction. In the up-down direction, the direction from the protective portion 28 toward the trigger lever 20 is defined as the upper direction, and the opposite direction of the upper direction is defined as the lower direction.

[0051] The battery pack B accommodates rechargeable secondary batteries such as lithium ion batteries. The battery pack B is mounted on the battery mounting portion 30 by sliding from the bottom to the top relative to the battery mounting portion 30 of the housing 8. In addition, the battery pack B is removed from the battery mounting portion 30 by sliding from the top to the bottom relative to the battery mounting portion 30.

[0052] The power switch 22 and the open position adjustment switch 24 are arranged on the upper surface of the housing 8 at a position behind the rear end of the grip 26. The power switch 22 is a switch for switching the main power supply of the trimming shears 4 on / off. The open position adjustment switch 24 is a switch for adjusting the open position of the movable blade 18 (the details will be discussed later). In addition, the display unit 14 is arranged on the upper surface of the housing 8 at a position ahead of the front end of the grip 26. The display unit 14 has an LED (not shown) for displaying the state of the main power supply on / off, etc.

[0053] Figure 2 The illustrated sheath 6 is a tool for temporarily holding the pruning shears 4 while the user is performing work using the pruning shears 4. The sheath 6 includes: a ring portion 32 that can be attached and detached to a belt (not shown) wrapped around the user's waist; and a housing portion 34 that can store the pruning shears 4. The user can attach the sheath 6 to the belt by passing the belt through the ring portion 32. In addition, the housing portion 34 includes: a plate portion 36 having a flat plate shape; a pocket portion 38 that is provided on one side of the plate portion 36; and an opening portion 40 that is formed between the plate portion 36 and the pocket portion 38. In addition, the ring portion 32 is provided on the surface of the plate portion 36 on the side opposite to the surface on which the pocket portion 38 is provided.

[0054] In this specification, the direction orthogonal to the plate portion 36 is defined as the X direction. In the X direction, the direction from the plate portion 36 toward the bag portion 38 is defined as the X direction positive direction, and the direction from the plate portion 36 toward the ring portion 32 is defined as the X direction negative direction. In addition, the direction orthogonal to the X direction and along the length direction of the sheath 6 is defined as the Y direction. In the Y direction, the direction from the inside of the shell portion 34 toward the outside through the opening portion 40 is defined as the Y direction positive direction, and the direction from the outside of the shell portion 34 toward the inside through the opening portion 40 is defined as the Y direction negative direction. In addition, the direction orthogonal to the X direction and the Y direction and parallel to the plate portion 36 of the sheath 6 is defined as the Z direction.

[0055] like Figure 3 , Figure 4 As shown, in a state where the front direction of the trimming shears 4 is directed toward the negative direction of the Y direction and the left direction of the trimming shears 4 is directed toward the negative direction of the X direction, the front portion of the trimming shears 4 including the scissor portion 10 can pass through the opening portion 40 along the front-to-back direction (Y direction). Therefore, the user can move the front portion of the trimming shears 4 in and out of the housing portion 34 via the opening portion 40. The inner surface of the housing portion 34 is formed with: a first protrusion 42 that protrudes from the surface of the bag portion 38 on the negative direction side of the X direction toward the negative direction of the X direction; and a second protrusion 44 that protrudes from the surface of the plate portion 36 on the positive direction side of the X direction toward the positive direction of the X direction. As shown Figure 4 As shown, when the trimming scissors 4 are held by the sheath 6, the first protrusion 42 abuts against the front surface of the housing 8 from the front side of the housing 8. Thus, it is possible to suppress the trimming scissors 4 from further moving in the negative direction of the Y direction. In addition, the second protrusion 44 abuts against the left surface of the housing 8 in a manner that presses the trimming scissors 4 against the surface of the bag portion 38 on the negative side of the X direction. Thus, it is possible to suppress the trimming scissors 4 from shaking relative to the housing portion 34. In addition, when the trimming scissors 4 are held by the sheath 6, regardless of the degree of opening of the movable blade 18, the scissor portion 10 is arranged at a position that does not abut against the inner surface of the housing portion 34. Therefore, when the user moves the trimming scissors 4 in and out of the housing portion 34, it is difficult for the scissor portion 10 to interfere with the housing portion 34. Thus, the user can smoothly move the trimming scissors 4 in and out of the housing portion 34.

[0056] The operating machine system 2 also includes a detection mechanism 46 for detecting whether the pruning shears 4 are held by the sheath 6 (specifically, whether the scissor portion 10 is accommodated by the housing portion 34). The detection mechanism 46 includes a sheath detection sensor 48 provided on the pruning shears 4 and a magnet 50 provided on the sheath 6. The sheath detection sensor 48 is a magnetic sensor including, for example, a Hall element, and is capable of detecting whether the magnet 50 is located nearby. The sheath detection sensor 48 is disposed inside the housing 8 and is located forward of the front end of the grip portion 26. In addition, the magnet 50 is disposed inside the second protrusion 44. As Figure 4 As shown in FIG. 1 , when the trimming scissors 4 are held by the sheath 6, the Y-direction position of the sheath detection sensor 48 is substantially consistent with the Y-direction position of the magnet 50. Therefore, when the trimming scissors 4 are held by the sheath 6 (specifically, when the scissor portion 10 is accommodated in the housing portion 34), the magnet 50 is disposed at a position close to the sheath detection sensor 48. On the other hand, Figure 3 As shown, when the trimming shears 4 are not held by the sheath 6 (specifically, when the scissor portion 10 is not stored in the housing portion 34), the magnet 50 is disposed at a position relatively far from the sheath detection sensor 48. Therefore, the sheath detection sensor 48 can detect whether the trimming shears 4 are held by the sheath 6 by detecting whether the magnet 50 is located nearby.

[0057] like Figure 5 As shown, the trimmer scissors 4 further include a control device 52, an electric motor 54, a power transmission unit 56, a sensor substrate 58, and a power interface 60. The control device 52, the electric motor 54, the power transmission unit 56, and the sensor substrate 58 are accommodated in a housing 8, respectively.

[0058] The power interface 60 is disposed at the rear end of the battery mounting portion 30 . The power interface 60 includes a connection terminal (not shown) for electrically connecting to the battery pack B. The battery pack B supplies power to the trimming shears 4 via the power interface 60 .

[0059] The electric motor 54 is, for example, a brushless DC motor, and is, for example, a coreless motor. The electric motor 54 is provided with a rotation detection sensor 62 (see FIG. 6 ) for detecting the rotation angle of a rotor (not shown). Figure 8 The electric motor 54 is disposed inside the grip portion 26. An output shaft (not shown) of the electric motor 54 extends in the front-rear direction.

[0060] The power transmission unit 56 includes: a planetary gear mechanism (not shown) connected to the output shaft (not shown) of the electric motor 54; a gear shaft 64 connected to the planetary gear mechanism; and a gear housing 66 that accommodates the planetary gear mechanism and the gear shaft 64. The planetary gear mechanism reduces the rotation of the output shaft and transmits it to the gear shaft 64. A bevel gear 68 is formed at the front of the gear shaft 64. The bevel gear 68 passes through an opening 70 formed on the right surface of the gear housing 66 and is connected to a bevel gear 74 (see FIG. 1 ) formed on the left surface of the gear plate 72. Figure 7 ) is engaged. The gear piece 72 is fixed to the movable knife 18. Therefore, when the electric motor 54 rotates in the positive direction, the movable knife 18 rotates clockwise when viewed from the right. That is, the movable knife 18 gradually closes relative to the fixed knife 16. In addition, when the electric motor 54 rotates in the reverse direction, the movable knife 18 rotates counterclockwise when viewed from the right. That is, the movable knife 18 gradually opens relative to the fixed knife 16.

[0061] like Figure 6 As shown, the trigger lever 20 includes: a connecting portion 78, which is rotatably connected to the gear housing 66 by means of a pin 76; a front arm portion 80, which extends forward from the connecting portion 78; a rear arm portion 82, which extends rearward from the connecting portion 78; and a protrusion 84, which protrudes upward from the upper surface of the rear arm portion 82. A magnet 86 is fixed to the top end of the front arm portion 80. The rear arm portion 82 is partially exposed to the outside of the housing 8. The rear arm portion 82 is the portion operated by the user. A coil spring 88 is installed around the protrusion 84. The coil spring 88 enters a recessed portion (not shown) provided on the lower surface of the gear housing 66. The coil spring 88 applies a force to the rear arm portion 82 of the trigger lever 20 downward relative to the gear housing 66. When the user does not operate the trigger lever 20, the trigger lever 20 is kept in the position by the force of the coil spring 88. Figure 6 If the user pulls up the trigger lever 20 (specifically, the rear arm 82), the trigger lever 20 overcomes the force of the coil spring 88 and rotates counterclockwise when viewed from the left. If the user pulls up the trigger lever 20 to the maximum extent, the position of the trigger lever 20 becomes Figure 7 Position shown.

[0062] The sensor substrate 58 is fixed to the gear housing 66. A trigger position detection sensor 90 for detecting the position of the trigger lever 20 is provided on the sensor substrate 58. The trigger position detection sensor 90 is arranged at the lower part of the sensor substrate 58 on the left surface of the sensor substrate 58 (that is, the surface opposite to the right surface of the trigger lever 20). The trigger position detection sensor 90 is a magnetic sensor having, for example, a Hall element, and can detect whether the magnet 86 is located nearby. The trigger position detection sensor 90 can detect whether the trigger lever 20 is pulled up by detecting whether the magnet 86 is located nearby.

[0063] In addition, a plurality of movable knife position detection sensors 92 (see FIG. 1 ) for detecting the position of the movable knife 18 are provided on the sensor substrate 58. Figure 5 , part of which is not shown in the figure). A plurality of movable knife position detection sensors 92 are arranged on the right surface of the sensor substrate 58 (i.e., the surface opposite to the left surface of the gear plate 72). A magnet (not shown) is fixed to the left surface of the gear plate 72. The plurality of movable knife position detection sensors 92 are respectively magnetic sensors having, for example, a Hall element, and are capable of detecting whether the magnet fixed to the left surface of the gear plate 72 is located nearby. The plurality of movable knife position detection sensors 92 are respectively capable of detecting the position of the movable knife 18 (i.e., the degree of opening of the movable knife 18 relative to the fixed knife 16) by detecting whether the magnet is located nearby.

[0064] (Configuration of Control Device 52)

[0065] like Figure 8 As shown, the control device 52 includes a control unit 96, a power supply control circuit 98, a regulator 100, an inverter circuit 102, an inverter gate circuit 104, a motor current detection circuit 106, a power supply switch 108, a power supply gate circuit 110, a battery voltage detection circuit 112, and a temperature detection sensor 114.

[0066] The control unit 96 is a so-called microcomputer including a CPU 116, a ROM 118, and a RAM 120. Various operation programs are stored in the ROM 118. Various signals input to the control unit 96 and various data generated in the process of the CPU 116 executing the processing are temporarily stored in the RAM 120. The control unit 96 controls the trimming shears 4 by the CPU 116 executing the processing based on the information stored in the ROM 118 and the RAM 120. The control unit 96 is electrically connected to the electrical components (for example, the sheath detection sensor 48, the power switch 22, the open position adjustment switch 24, the display unit 14, the power interface 60, the electric motor 54, the rotation detection sensor 62, the plurality of movable blade position detection sensors 92, and the trigger position detection sensor 90) provided in the trimming shears 4. In addition, the control unit 96 can perform two-way communication with the battery pack B via the power interface 60.

[0067] The power control circuit 98 and the regulator 100 adjust the power supplied from the battery pack B to a predetermined control voltage (for example, 5V) and output it to the control unit 96. The power output to the control unit 96 via the power control circuit 98 and the regulator 100 is used as an operating power supply for the control unit 96, that is, a main power supply for the trimming shears 4. The power control circuit 98 is electrically connected to the power switch 22, the control unit 96, and the power interface 60. The power control circuit 98 switches the connection / disconnection of the main power supply of the trimming shears 4 according to the operation of the power switch 22. In addition, the power control circuit 98 switches the main power supply of the trimming shears 4 to disconnection when a main power disconnection signal is output from the control unit 96. In addition, the power control circuit 98 switches the main power supply of the trimming shears 4 to disconnection when an emergency disconnection signal is output from the battery pack B via the power interface 60. The so-called emergency disconnection signal here is, for example, a signal output when an abnormality (overheating, etc.) occurs in the battery pack B. In this specification, the state where the main power of the trimming shears 4 is on is sometimes simply referred to as a “power on state”, and the state where the main power of the trimming shears 4 is off is sometimes simply referred to as a “power off state”.

[0068] The inverter circuit 102 includes six switches 122 (eg, FETs). The control unit 96 can generate a three-phase AC to be supplied to the electric motor 54 by controlling the on / off of the six switches 122 via the inverter gate circuit 104 .

[0069] The motor current detection circuit 106 detects the current supplied to the inverter circuit 102, that is, the current supplied to the electric motor 54, and outputs it to the control unit 96 and the power supply gate circuit 110. Thus, the control unit 96 can detect whether an excessive current (so-called overcurrent) flows to the electric motor 54, for example.

[0070] The power switch 108 is, for example, a FET. The power switch 108 is provided between the battery pack B and the electric motor 54, and more specifically, between the power interface 60 and the inverter circuit 102. The power switch 108 is a switch that selectively connects and disconnects the battery pack B and the electric motor 54. If the power switch 108 is connected, the battery pack B and the electric motor 54 are electrically connected, and if the power switch 108 is disconnected, the battery pack B and the electric motor 54 are electrically disconnected.

[0071] The power supply gate circuit 110 is electrically connected to the sheath detection sensor 48 and the motor current detection circuit 106. The power supply gate circuit 110 can switch the connection / disconnection of the power supply switch 108 based on the signals output from the sheath detection sensor 48 and the motor current detection circuit 106. In addition, the power supply gate circuit 110 is configured in a manner that cannot communicate with the control unit 96. Therefore, the power supply gate circuit 110 is configured to switch the connection / disconnection of the power supply switch 108 independently of the control unit 96. That is, the power supply switch 108 is configured to operate independently of the control unit 96.

[0072] For example, the power supply gate circuit 110 switches the power supply switch 108 to off when a sheath detection signal indicating that the trimming shears 4 are held by the sheath 6 is output from the sheath detection sensor 48. The power supply gate circuit 110 switches the power supply switch 108 to on when the sheath detection signal is not output from the sheath detection sensor 48. Thus, when the trimming shears 4 are not held by the sheath 6, power supply to the electric motor 54 is permitted, and when the trimming shears 4 are held by the sheath 6, power supply to the electric motor 54 is prohibited.

[0073] In addition, the power supply gate circuit 110 can determine whether an overcurrent is flowing to the electric motor 54 based on the detection result of the motor current detection circuit 106. And, if the power supply gate circuit 110 determines that an overcurrent is flowing to the electric motor 54, the power supply switch 108 is switched to be turned off. If the power supply gate circuit 110 determines that an overcurrent is not flowing to the electric motor 54, the power supply switch 108 is switched to be turned on. Thus, when an overcurrent is not flowing to the electric motor 54, power supply to the electric motor 54 is allowed, and when an overcurrent is flowing to the electric motor 54, power supply to the electric motor 54 is prohibited.

[0074] The battery voltage detection circuit 112 detects the voltage of the battery pack B (that is, the remaining amount of the battery pack B) and outputs the detected voltage to the control unit 96. The control unit 96 can thereby grasp the voltage of the battery pack B.

[0075] The temperature detection sensor 114 detects the temperature of the inverter circuit 102 and outputs the detected temperature to the control unit 96. Thus, the control unit 96 can grasp the temperature of the inverter circuit 102.

[0076] (Motion mode of trimming scissors 4)

[0077] As the operation mode of the pruning shears 4 in the power-on state, a plurality of operation modes are provided. The pruning shears 4 operates in a different manner in each operation mode. Hereinafter, the standby mode and the active mode, which are the main operation modes of the pruning shears 4, will be described.

[0078] (Backup Mode)

[0079] The standby mode is a mode for prohibiting the operation of the scissor section 10. In the present embodiment, the operation mode of the pruning shears 4 is set to the standby mode immediately after the main power of the pruning shears 4 is switched from off to on. The control section 96 prohibits the operation of the electric motor 54 when the pruning shears 4 is in the standby mode. Therefore, in the standby mode, even if the trigger lever 20 is operated, the electric motor 54 does not operate, and therefore the scissor section 10 does not operate.

[0080] (Activity Mode)

[0081] The active mode is a mode that allows the movement of the scissor unit 10. Figure 6 As shown, when the trigger lever 20 is at the zero position, the control unit 96 controls the electric motor 54 based on the detection results of the plurality of movable knife position detection sensors 92 so as to keep the movable knife 18 at a position opened relative to the fixed knife 16 (also referred to as an open position). Figure 7 As shown in the figure, when the trigger lever 20 is pulled up, the control unit 96 operates the electric motor 54 based on the detection results of the plurality of movable knife position detection sensors 92 so that the movable knife 18 moves to the closed position. Therefore, in the active mode, the cutting action of the scissors part 10 can be performed by pulling up the trigger lever 20. In addition, when the open position adjustment switch 24 is operated when the trimming scissors 4 are in the active mode, the control unit 96 switches the open position of the movable knife 18 when the trigger lever 20 is in the zero position between the first open position and the second open position, and the second open position is a position closed relative to the first open position. By using this function, the user can select a suitable open position according to the thickness of the object to be cut.

[0082] (First Mode Switching Process)

[0083] Fig. 9 The first mode switching process shown is a process for switching the operation mode of the trimming shears 4. The first mode switching process starts at the time when the main power of the trimming shears 4 is switched from off to on.

[0084] In S2, the control unit 96 sets the operation mode of the trimming shears 4 to the standby mode. After S2, the process proceeds to S4.

[0085] In S4, the control unit 96 generates a signal based on the information from the sheath detection sensor 48 (see Figure 8 ) output signal to determine whether the trimming shears 4 are held by the sheath 6. Specifically, the control unit 96 follows the sheath holding determination process (see Fig.10 ) It is determined whether the trimming shears 4 are held by the sheath 6. If the trimming shears 4 are not held by the sheath 6 (No), the process proceeds to S6.

[0086] In S6, the control unit 96 determines whether the inactivity time of the trimming shears 4 is longer than a predetermined time Ta (e.g., 15 minutes). The inactivity time here refers to the time when the trimming shears 4 is in a power-on state and the operating unit 12 of the trimming shears 4 (specifically, the trigger lever 20 and / or the open position adjustment switch 24) is not continuously operated (see Figure 1 If the non-operation time of the trimming shears 4 is less than the predetermined time Ta (No), the process proceeds to S8.

[0087] In S8, the control unit 96 determines whether the operation mode of the trimming shears 4 is the standby mode. If the operation mode of the trimming shears 4 is the standby mode (yes), the process proceeds to S10.

[0088] In S10, the control unit 96 determines whether the trigger lever 20 (see Figure 1 ) has performed a predetermined activity switching operation. Here, the so-called activity switching operation is, for example, an operation of pulling up the trigger lever 20 twice within a predetermined time (for example, 1 second). If the activity switching operation is not performed on the trigger lever 20 (in the case of No), the process returns to S4. If the activity switching operation is performed on the trigger lever 20 (in the case of Yes), the process enters S12.

[0089] In S12, the control unit 96 switches the operation mode of the trimming shears 4 to the active mode. After S12, the process returns to S4.

[0090] If it is determined in S8 that the operation mode of the trimmer scissors 4 is not the standby mode (No), the process proceeds to S14. In S14, the control unit 96 determines whether the trigger lever 20 (see Figure 1) has performed a predetermined standby switching operation. The so-called standby switching operation here is, for example, an operation of continuously pulling up the trigger lever 20 for a predetermined time (for example, 3 seconds) or more. If the standby switching operation is not performed on the trigger lever 20 (No), the process proceeds to S16.

[0091] In S16, the control unit 96 determines whether the inactivity time of the trimming shears 4 is longer than a predetermined time Tb (eg, 5 minutes). If the inactivity time of the trimming shears 4 is shorter than the predetermined time Tb (No), the process returns to S4.

[0092] If it is determined in S14 that the trigger lever 20 has been operated to switch to the standby mode (in the case of YES), or if it is determined in S16 that the pruning shears 4 have not been operated for a predetermined time period Tb or longer (in the case of YES), the process proceeds to S18. In S18, the control unit 96 switches the operation mode of the pruning shears 4 to the standby mode. After S18, the process returns to S4.

[0093] If it is determined in S6 that the non-operation time of the trimming shears 4 is longer than the predetermined time Ta (yes), the process proceeds to S20. In S20, the control unit 96 controls the power supply control circuit 98 (see Figure 8 ) outputs a main power disconnection signal. As a result, the main power of the trimming shears 4 is disconnected. Fig. 9 The shown processing ends.

[0094] In the case where it is determined in S4 that the pruning shears 4 are held by the sheath 6 (in the case of yes), the process proceeds to S22. In S22, the control unit 96 determines whether the sheath holding time of the pruning shears 4 is longer than the predetermined time Tc (for example, 30 minutes). The sheath holding time here refers to the time when the pruning shears 4 are in the power-on state and the pruning shears 4 are continuously held by the sheath 6. The sheath holding time of this embodiment can also be considered as the time when the situation that does not become no in S4 continues. In addition, the predetermined time Tc is set to a time longer than the aforementioned predetermined time Ta. In the case where the sheath holding time of the pruning shears 4 is less than the predetermined time Tc (in the case of no), the process proceeds to S24.

[0095] In S24, the control unit 96 determines whether the operation mode of the trimming shears 4 is the standby mode. If the operation mode of the trimming shears 4 is the standby mode (if yes), the process returns to S4. If the operation mode of the trimming shears 4 is not the standby mode (if no), the process proceeds to S26.

[0096] In S26, the control unit 96 prohibits the operation of the electric motor 54 even if the operation mode of the trimming shears 4 is the active mode. Specifically, the so-called "the control unit 96 prohibits the operation of the electric motor 54" here means "even if the trigger lever 20 (refer to Figure 1 ), the control unit 96 does not perform the operation via the inverter gate circuit 104 (refer to Figure 8 ) switch 122 (refer to Figure 8 The reason for this is that it is expected that the operation performed by the pruning shears 4 will be interrupted during the period when the pruning shears 4 are held by the sheath 6, so the electric motor 54 (see Figure 8 ) to avoid unnecessary consumption of battery pack B (refer to Figure 8 ) margin. In addition, after the control unit 96 prohibits the operation of the electric motor 54 in S26, when it is determined that the trimming shears 4 are taken out from the sheath 6 (that is, when it becomes No in S4), it allows the operation of the electric motor 54 again.

[0097] After S26, the process proceeds to S28. In S28, the control unit 96 determines whether the sheath holding time of the pruning shears 4 is a predetermined time Td (for example, 10 minutes) or longer. In addition, the predetermined time Td is set to a time longer than the predetermined time Tb described above. In the case where the sheath holding time of the pruning shears 4 is less than the predetermined time Td, the process returns to S4. In the case where the sheath holding time of the pruning shears 4 is longer than the predetermined time Td (in the case of yes), the process proceeds to S30.

[0098] In S30, the control unit 96 switches the operation mode of the trimming shears 4 to the standby mode. After S30, the process returns to S4.

[0099] If it is determined in S22 that the sheath holding time of the trimming shears 4 is longer than the predetermined time Tc (in the case of YES), the process proceeds to S32. In S32, the control unit 96 controls the power supply control circuit 98 (refer to Figure 8 ) outputs a main power disconnection signal. As a result, the main power of the trimming shears 4 is disconnected. Fig. 9 The shown processing ends.

[0100] (Sheath retention determination process)

[0101] Repeatedly execute while the main power supply of the trimming shears 4 is on Fig.10 The sheath retention determination process is shown.

[0102] In S52, the control unit 96 determines whether the sheath detection sensor 48 (see Figure 8) outputs a sheath detection signal indicating that the trimming shears 4 are held by the sheath 6. If the sheath detection signal is not output (No), the process proceeds to S54.

[0103] In S54, the control unit 96 determines whether or not the sheath detection sensor 48 continues to output a sheath detection signal for a predetermined time (eg, 5 seconds) or longer.

[0104] If it is determined in S52 that the sheath detection signal is output (in the case of YES), or if it is determined in S54 that the sheath detection signal is not output for a period of time or longer (in the case of NO), the process proceeds to S56. In S56, the control unit 96 determines that the trimming shears 4 are held by the sheath 6. After S56, Fig.10 The shown processing ends.

[0105] If it is determined in S54 that the sheath detection signal has not been output for a predetermined time or longer (in the case of YES), the process proceeds to S58. In S58, the control unit 96 determines that the trimming shears 4 are not held by the sheath 6. After S58, Fig.10 The shown processing ends.

[0106] according to Fig. 9 , Fig.10 In the process shown in FIG. 1 , the control unit 96 determines that the trimming shears 4 are held by the sheath 6 even though the trimming shears 4 are not actually held by the sheath 6 during the period from when the trimming shears 4 are taken out of the sheath 6 to when the predetermined time has passed. Therefore, even if the trimming shears 4 is in the active mode, the electric motor 54 is exceptionally prohibited from being operated during the period from when the trimming shears 4 are taken out of the sheath 6 to when the predetermined time has passed. Figure 8 ) action (see Fig. 9 Thus, even if the user accidentally operates the trigger lever 20 when removing the trimming shears 4 from the sheath 6 (see S4, S22, S24, S26 of the process shown in FIG. 6 ), the trigger lever 20 may be used to remove the trimming shears 4 from the sheath 6. Figure 1 ), nor will it drive the scissor portion 10 (refer to Figure 1 ). Therefore, the trimming scissors 4 of the present embodiment can suppress the driving of the scissor portion 10 caused by the user's erroneous operation.

[0107] (Features of Example 1)

[0108] As described above, in one or more embodiments, the working machine system 2 includes a pruning shears 4 (an example of a working machine), a sheath 6 (an example of a working machine retaining member) and a detection mechanism 46, and the pruning shears 4 include: a scissors portion 10 (an example of a working portion), which performs a cutting action (an example of a working action); an electric motor 54, which drives the scissors portion 10; an operating portion 12, which can be operated by a user; a power interface 60 (an example of a power connection portion), which is connected to a battery pack B (an example of a power source); and a control portion 96, and the sheath 6 includes: a shell portion 34, which can at least accommodate the scissors portion 10; and a ring portion 32 (an example of a mounting portion), which is mounted to the user in a manner that can be loaded and unloaded, and the detection mechanism 46 detects whether the pruning shears 4 are retained by the sheath 6. The trimming shears 4 can switch between an active mode (or a power-on state) (an example of a first state) and a standby mode (or a power-off state) (an example of a second state). In the active mode, a cut-off operation is permitted. In the standby mode, a cut-off operation is prohibited. In order to switch to the active mode (or the power-on state), an active switching operation of the trigger lever 20 (or an operation of the power switch 22) is required (an example of a predetermined switching operation on the operating unit). The control unit 96 is capable of executing the second state transition process ( ) to switch the trimming shears 4 from the active mode (or the power-on state) to the standby mode (or the power-off state) when a predetermined condition is satisfied. Fig. 9 S16, S18, S28, S30) (or Fig. 9 In the case where the detection mechanism 46 detects that the pruning shears 4 are not held by the sheath 6 (in Fig. 9 In the case of S4 of the embodiment of the present invention, if it is not, the predetermined condition includes that the non-operation time of the trigger lever 20 (an example of the idle time of the working machine) becomes longer than the predetermined time Tb (or the predetermined time Ta) (an example of the first predetermined time). When the detection mechanism 46 detects that the pruning shears 4 are held by the sheath 6 (in the case of Fig. 9 The predetermined condition includes the sheath holding time (another example of the placement time of the working machine) being longer than the predetermined time Tb (or the predetermined time Ta) by a predetermined time Td (or the predetermined time Tc) (an example of the second predetermined time).

[0109] In the above-mentioned structure, when the pruning shears 4 is placed in the active mode (or the power-on state), the pruning shears 4 is automatically switched from the active mode (or the power-on state) to the standby mode (or the power-off state) by the second state transition process executed by the control unit 96. However, according to the above-mentioned structure, the condition for triggering the second state transition process is less likely to be satisfied during the period when the pruning shears 4 is held by the sheath 6 than during the period when the pruning shears 4 is not held by the sheath 6. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the pruning shears 4 from automatically switching from the active mode (or the power-on state) to the standby mode (or the power-off state) during the period when the pruning shears 4 is held by the sheath 6. As a result, it is possible to suppress the user from feeling trouble, and thus the convenience of the pruning shears 4 can be improved.

[0110] In one or more embodiments, the operating unit 12 includes a trigger lever 20 (an example of a trigger operating unit) for causing the scissors portion 10 to perform a cutting action. The first state is an active mode (an example of an active state) in which the control unit 96 activates the electric motor 54 when the trigger lever 20 is operated to cause the scissors portion 10 to perform a cutting action. The second state is a standby mode (an example of a standby state) in which the control unit 96 does not cause the scissors portion 10 to perform a cutting action even when the trigger lever 20 is operated. The switching operation includes an active switching operation of the trigger lever 20. The second state transition processing is a standby mode transition processing (an example of a standby state) in which the pruning shears 4 are switched from the active mode to the standby mode. Fig. 9 S18, S30).

[0111] If it is assumed that the pruning shears 4 is automatically switched from the active mode to the standby mode while the pruning shears 4 is held by the sheath 6, then when the user takes out the pruning shears 4 from the sheath 6 and performs work, an active switching operation for switching the pruning shears 4 from the standby mode to the active mode is required. As a result, the user feels troubled, and the convenience of the pruning shears 4 may be deteriorated. According to the above-mentioned structure, the pruning shears 4 can be prevented from automatically switching from the active mode to the standby mode while the pruning shears 4 is held by the sheath 6. Therefore, when the user takes out the pruning shears 4 from the sheath 6 and performs work, an active switching operation is not required. As a result, it is possible to prevent the user from feeling troubled, and thus the convenience of the pruning shears 4 can be improved.

[0112] In one or more embodiments, the operating unit 12 includes a power switch 22. The first state is a power-on state in which power is supplied from the battery pack B to the control unit 96. The second state is a power-off state in which power is not supplied from the battery pack B to the control unit 96. The switching operation includes operating the power switch 22. The second state transition process is a power-off state transition process ( Fig. 9 S20, S32).

[0113] If it is assumed that the pruning shears 4 is automatically switched from the power-on state to the power-off state while the pruning shears 4 is held by the sheath 6, then when the user takes out the pruning shears 4 from the sheath 6 and performs work, it is necessary to operate the power switch 22 for switching the pruning shears 4 from the power-off state to the power-on state. As a result, it is troublesome for the user, and the convenience of the pruning shears 4 may be deteriorated. According to the above-mentioned structure, it is possible to suppress the pruning shears 4 from being automatically switched from the power-on state to the power-off state while the pruning shears 4 is held by the sheath 6. Therefore, it is unnecessary to operate the power switch 22 when the user takes out the pruning shears 4 from the sheath 6 and performs work. As a result, it is possible to suppress the user from being troublesome, and thus the convenience of the pruning shears 4 can be improved.

[0114] In one or more embodiments, the trimming shears 4 include a power switch 108 (an example of a switch circuit) that selectively connects and disconnects the battery pack B and the electric motor 54. The power switch 108 electrically connects the battery pack B and the electric motor 54 when the detection mechanism 46 detects that the trimming shears 4 are not held by the sheath 6, and electrically disconnects the battery pack B and the electric motor 54 when the detection mechanism 46 detects that the trimming shears 4 are held by the sheath 6.

[0115] Generally speaking, it is expected that the work performed by the pruning shears 4 is interrupted while the pruning shears 4 is held by the sheath 6. Therefore, it does not matter even if the power supply from the battery pack B to the electric motor 54 is prohibited while the pruning shears 4 is held by the sheath 6. On the contrary, if the power supply from the battery pack B to the electric motor 54 is allowed while the pruning shears 4 is held by the sheath 6, there is a possibility that power is consumed unnecessarily. According to the above-mentioned structure, the power supply from the battery pack B to the electric motor 54 is prohibited while the pruning shears 4 is held by the sheath 6. Thereby, it is possible to suppress unnecessary power consumption.

[0116] In one or more embodiments, the power switch 108 operates independently of the control unit 96 .

[0117] If the power switch 108 is configured to operate in coordination with the control unit 96, there is a possibility that the power switch 108 does not operate normally when the control unit 96 malfunctions. As a result, the power switch 108 may allow the power supply from the battery pack B to the electric motor 54 even though the trimming shears 4 are held by the sheath 6. The power switch 108 may prohibit the power supply from the battery pack B to the electric motor 54 even though the trimming shears 4 are not held by the sheath 6. According to the above configuration, the power switch 108 operates independently of the control unit 96, so even if the control unit 96 malfunctions, the power switch 108 can operate normally. As a result, it is possible to prevent the power switch 108 from allowing the power supply from the battery pack B to the electric motor 54 even though the trimming shears 4 are held by the sheath 6, and prohibiting the power supply from the battery pack B to the electric motor 54 even though the trimming shears 4 are not held by the sheath 6.

[0118] In one or more embodiments, the scissors portion 10 includes: a fixed knife 16 (an example of a first knife); and a movable knife 18 (an example of a second knife) that can move between an open position and a closed position relative to the fixed knife 16. The cutting action is an action of moving the movable knife 18 from the open position to the closed position.

[0119] According to the above-mentioned structure, the working machine functions as a pruning shear 4 that cuts off objects (for example, branches). In the work using the pruning shear 4, other work (for example, the work of collecting the objects cut by the pruning shear 4) is sometimes accompanied. Therefore, it is considered that there are many opportunities to keep the pruning shear 4 in the sheath 6 in order to perform other works. Therefore, if the pruning shear 4 is automatically switched from the active mode (or the power-on state) to the standby mode (or the power-off state) while the pruning shear 4 is held by the sheath 6, the user feels particularly troublesome. Therefore, according to the above-mentioned structure, the effect of suppressing the pruning shear 4 from automatically switching from the active mode (or the power-on state) to the standby mode (or the power-off state) while the pruning shear 4 is held by the sheath 6 is significantly exerted.

[0120] In one or more embodiments, the detection mechanism 46 includes a sheath detection sensor 48 (an example of a magnetic sensor) provided on the pruning shears 4 (an example of an operating machine and an operating machine retaining part) and a magnet 50 provided on the sheath 6 (an example of an operating machine and an operating machine retaining part).

[0121] According to the above-mentioned structure, the detection mechanism 46 can be realized in a simple manner.

[0122] In one or more embodiments, the sheath 6 further includes a second protrusion 44 (an example of a protrusion) that protrudes from the inner surface of the housing 34 and abuts against the trimming shears 4. The detection mechanism 46 includes a sheath detection sensor 48 (an example of a detection unit) and a magnet 50 (an example of a detected unit) detected by the sheath detection sensor 48. The sheath detection sensor 48 (an example of one of the detection unit and the detected unit) is provided on the trimming shears 4. The magnet 50 (an example of the other of the detection unit and the detected unit) is provided on the second protrusion 44 of the sheath 6.

[0123] In the above-mentioned structure, if the relative positional relationship between the sheath detection sensor 48 and the magnet 50 is deviated when the trimming scissors 4 are held by the sheath 6, the detection accuracy of the detection mechanism 46 may be deteriorated. In this regard, according to the above-mentioned structure, the protrusion in the sheath 6 that contacts the trimming scissors 4 is provided with the magnet 50. Therefore, when the trimming scissors 4 are held by the sheath 6, the magnet 50 is arranged near the trimming scissors 4, and further arranged near the sheath detection sensor 48 provided on the trimming scissors 4. As a result, it is possible to suppress the relative positional relationship between the sheath detection sensor 48 and the magnet 50 from being deviated when the trimming scissors 4 are held by the sheath 6, so that the detection accuracy of the detection mechanism 46 can be improved.

[0124] In one or more embodiments, the pruning shears 4 can be held by the sheath 6. The pruning shears 4 include: a scissor portion 10 (an example of a working portion) that performs a cutting action (an example of a working action); an electric motor 54 that drives the scissor portion 10; an operating portion 12 that can be operated by a user; a power interface 60 (an example of a power connection portion) that is connected to a battery pack B (an example of a power source); a sheath detection sensor 48 (an example of a detection portion) that detects whether the pruning shears 4 is held by the sheath 6; and a control portion 96. The pruning shears 4 can be switched between an active mode (or a power-on state) (an example of a first state), in which the cutting action is allowed, and a standby mode (or a power-off state) (an example of a second state), in which the cutting action is prohibited, and in which an active switching operation of the trigger lever 20 (or an operation of the power switch 22) (an example of a predetermined switching operation of the operating portion) is required to switch to the active mode (or the power-on state). The control unit 96 is capable of executing a second state transition process ( ) for switching the trimming shears 4 from the active mode (or the power-on state) to the standby mode (or the power-off state) when a predetermined condition is satisfied. Fig. 9 S16, S18, S28, S30) (or Fig. 9 In the case where the sheath detection sensor 48 detects that the trimming scissors 4 are not held by the sheath 6 (in Fig. 9In the case of S4 of the embodiment of the present invention, if it is not, the predetermined condition includes that the non-operation time of the trigger lever 20 (an example of the idle time of the working machine) becomes longer than the predetermined time Tb (or the predetermined time Ta) (an example of the first predetermined time). When the sheath detection sensor 48 detects that the trimming shears 4 are held by the sheath 6 (in the case of Fig. 9 In S4, in the case of yes, the predetermined conditions include the sheath holding time (another example of the placement time of the operating machine) becoming longer than the predetermined time Tb (or the predetermined time Ta) by a predetermined time Td (or a predetermined time Tc) (an example of the second predetermined time).

[0125] In the above-mentioned structure, when the pruning shears 4 is placed in the active mode (or the power-on state), the pruning shears 4 is automatically switched from the active mode (or the power-on state) to the standby mode (or the power-off state) by the second state transition process executed by the control unit 96. However, according to the above-mentioned structure, the condition for triggering the second state transition process is less likely to be satisfied during the period when the pruning shears 4 is held by the sheath 6 than during the period when the pruning shears 4 is not held by the sheath 6. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the pruning shears 4 from automatically switching from the active mode (or the power-on state) to the standby mode (or the power-off state) during the period when the pruning shears 4 is held by the sheath 6. As a result, it is possible to suppress the user from feeling trouble, and thus the convenience of the pruning shears 4 can be improved.

[0126] (Example 2: Working machine system 202)

[0127] The working machine system 202 has the same configuration as the working machine system 2 of the first embodiment (see Figure 1-Figure 10 ) is substantially the same structure. The operating mechanical system 202 is executed only in the control unit 96 of the trimming shears 4 Fig.11 The second mode switching process shown in FIG. 1 replaces the first mode switching process (see FIG. Fig. 9 ) This point is different from the working machine system 2 of Example 1. Hereinafter, only the difference will be described, and other descriptions will be omitted.

[0128] (Second Mode Switching Process)

[0129] The second mode switching process is similar to the first mode switching process (see Fig. 9 ) Similarly, the main power of the trimming shears 4 is turned from off to on. In addition, the second mode switching process is a process corresponding to S2-S20 of the first mode switching process, and S4 is replaced by S104 and S126. Therefore, the description of S2, S6-S20 in the second mode switching process is omitted, and only the description of S104 and S126 is given.

[0130] S104 is executed after S2. In S104, the control unit 96 performs the sheath retention determination process (see Fig.10 ) It is determined whether the trimming scissors 4 are held by the sheath 6. If the trimming scissors 4 are not held by the sheath 6 (in the case of No), the process proceeds to S6. If the trimming scissors 4 are held by the sheath 6 (in the case of Yes), the process proceeds to S126.

[0131] In S126, the control unit 96 and the first mode switching process (see Fig. 9 ) in S26. After S126, the process returns to S104. In addition, the control unit 96 prohibits the operation of the electric motor 54 in S126, and then allows the operation of the electric motor 54 again when it is determined that the trimming scissors 4 are taken out of the sheath 6 (that is, when it becomes No in S104).

[0132] (Features of Example 2)

[0133] As described above, in one or more embodiments, the working machine system 202 comprises: a pruning shears 4 (an example of a working machine), a sheath 6 (an example of a working machine retaining member) and a detection mechanism 46, wherein the pruning shears 4 include: a scissors portion 10 (an example of a working portion), which performs a cutting action (an example of a working action); an electric motor 54, which drives the scissors portion 10; an operating portion 12, which can be operated by a user; a power interface 60 (an example of a power connection portion), which is connected to a battery pack B (an example of a power source); and a control portion 96, wherein the sheath 6 includes: a shell portion 34, which can at least accommodate the scissors portion 10; and a ring portion 32 (an example of a mounting portion), which is mounted to the user in a manner that allows loading and unloading, and the detection mechanism 46 detects whether the pruning shears 4 are retained by the sheath 6. The pruning shears 4 can switch between an active mode (or a power-on state) (an example of a first state) in which a cut-off operation is permitted and a standby mode (or a power-off state) (an example of a second state) in which a cut-off operation is prohibited, and an active switching operation of the trigger lever 20 (or an operation of the power switch 22) (an example of a predetermined switching operation on the operating unit) is required in order to switch to the active mode (or the power-on state). The control unit 96 is capable of executing a second state transition process ( Fig.11 S18) (or Fig.11 The control unit 96 detects that the pruning shears 4 are not held by the sheath 6 by the detection mechanism 46 (in S20). Fig.11In the case of S104 of the embodiment of the present invention, if the trigger lever 20 is not operated for a predetermined time period Tb or longer, or the trigger lever 20 is switched to a standby state (or the trigger lever 20 is not operated for a predetermined time period Ta) (an example of a predetermined condition), the second state transition process is executed. The control unit 96 detects that the trimming shears 4 are held by the sheath 6 by the detection mechanism 46 (in the case of S104 of the present invention, if the trimming shears 4 are not operated for a predetermined time period Tb or longer). Fig.11 In S104 of , if it is YES, the second state transition process is not executed even if the condition that the inactivity time of the trigger lever 20 becomes longer than the predetermined time Tb or the condition that the trigger lever 20 is subjected to a standby switching operation (or the condition that the inactivity time of the trigger lever 20 becomes longer than the predetermined time Ta) is satisfied.

[0134] In the above-mentioned structure, when the pruning shears 4 is placed in the active mode (or the power-on state), the pruning shears 4 is automatically switched from the active mode (or the power-on state) to the standby mode (or the power-off state) by the second state transition process executed by the control unit 96. However, according to the above-mentioned structure, it is difficult to execute the second state transition process during the period when the pruning shears 4 is held by the sheath 6 compared with the period when the pruning shears 4 is not held by the sheath 6. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the pruning shears 4 from automatically switching from the active mode (or the power-on state) to the standby mode (or the power-off state) during the period when the pruning shears 4 is held by the sheath 6. As a result, it is possible to suppress the user from feeling trouble, and thus the convenience of the pruning shears 4 can be improved.

[0135] In one or more embodiments, the operating unit 12 includes a trigger lever 20 (an example of a trigger operating unit) for causing the scissors portion 10 to perform a cutting action. The first state is an active mode (an example of an active state) in which the control unit 96 activates the electric motor 54 when the trigger lever 20 is operated to cause the scissors portion 10 to perform a cutting action. The second state is a standby mode (an example of a standby state) in which the control unit 96 does not cause the scissors portion 10 to perform a cutting action even when the trigger lever 20 is operated. The switching operation includes an active switching operation of the trigger lever 20. The second state transition processing is a standby mode transition processing (an example of a standby state) in which the pruning shears 4 are switched from the active mode to the standby mode. Fig.11 S18).

[0136] If it is assumed that the pruning shears 4 is automatically switched from the active mode to the standby mode while the pruning shears 4 is held by the sheath 6, then when the user takes out the pruning shears 4 from the sheath 6 and performs work, an active switching operation for switching the pruning shears 4 from the standby mode to the active mode is required. As a result, the user feels troubled, and the convenience of the pruning shears 4 may be deteriorated. According to the above-mentioned structure, the pruning shears 4 can be prevented from automatically switching from the active mode to the standby mode while the pruning shears 4 is held by the sheath 6. Therefore, when the user takes out the pruning shears 4 from the sheath 6 and performs work, an active switching operation is not required. As a result, it is possible to prevent the user from feeling troubled, and thus the convenience of the pruning shears 4 can be improved.

[0137] In one or more embodiments, the operating unit 12 includes a power switch 22. The first state is a power-on state in which power is supplied from the battery pack B to the control unit 96. The second state is a power-off state in which power is not supplied from the battery pack B to the control unit 96. The switching operation includes operating the power switch 22. The second state transition process is a power-off state transition process ( Fig.11 S20).

[0138] If it is assumed that the pruning shears 4 is automatically switched from the power-on state to the power-off state while the pruning shears 4 is held by the sheath 6, then when the user takes out the pruning shears 4 from the sheath 6 and performs work, it is necessary to operate the power switch 22 for switching the pruning shears 4 from the power-off state to the power-on state. As a result, it is troublesome for the user, and the convenience of the pruning shears 4 may be deteriorated. According to the above-mentioned structure, it is possible to suppress the pruning shears 4 from being automatically switched from the power-on state to the power-off state while the pruning shears 4 is held by the sheath 6. Therefore, when the user takes out the pruning shears 4 from the sheath 6 and performs work, it is not necessary to operate the power switch 22. As a result, it is possible to suppress the user from being troublesome, and thus the convenience of the pruning shears 4 can be improved.

[0139] In one or more embodiments, the trimming shears 4 include a power switch 108 (an example of a switch circuit) that selectively connects and disconnects the battery pack B and the electric motor 54. The power switch 108 electrically connects the battery pack B and the electric motor 54 when the detection mechanism 46 detects that the trimming shears 4 are not held by the sheath 6, and electrically disconnects the battery pack B and the electric motor 54 when the detection mechanism 46 detects that the trimming shears 4 are held by the sheath 6.

[0140] Generally speaking, it is expected that the work performed by the trimming shears 4 is interrupted while the trimming shears 4 is held by the sheath 6. Therefore, it does not matter even if the power supply from the battery pack B to the electric motor 54 is prohibited while the trimming shears 4 is held by the sheath 6. On the contrary, if the power supply from the battery pack B to the electric motor 54 is allowed while the trimming shears 4 is held by the sheath 6, there is a possibility that power is consumed unnecessarily. According to the above-mentioned structure, the power supply from the battery pack B to the electric motor 54 is prohibited while the trimming shears 4 is held by the sheath 6. Thereby, it is possible to suppress unnecessary power consumption.

[0141] In one or more embodiments, the power switch 108 operates independently of the control unit 96 .

[0142] If the power switch 108 is configured to operate in coordination with the control unit 96, there is a possibility that the power switch 108 does not operate normally when the control unit 96 malfunctions. As a result, the power switch 108 may allow the power supply from the battery pack B to the electric motor 54 even though the trimming shears 4 are held by the sheath 6. The power switch 108 may prohibit the power supply from the battery pack B to the electric motor 54 even though the trimming shears 4 are not held by the sheath 6. According to the above configuration, the power switch 108 operates independently of the control unit 96, so even if the control unit 96 malfunctions, the power switch 108 can operate normally. As a result, it is possible to prevent the power switch 108 from allowing the power supply from the battery pack B to the electric motor 54 even though the trimming shears 4 are held by the sheath 6, and prohibiting the power supply from the battery pack B to the electric motor 54 even though the trimming shears 4 are not held by the sheath 6.

[0143] In one or more embodiments, the scissors portion 10 includes: a fixed knife 16 (an example of a first knife); and a movable knife 18 (an example of a second knife) that can move between an open position and a closed position relative to the fixed knife 16. The cutting action is an action of moving the movable knife 18 from the open position to the closed position.

[0144] According to the above-mentioned structure, the working machine functions as a pruning shears 4 for cutting the object to be cut (for example, a branch). In the work using the pruning shears 4, other work (for example, the work of collecting the object to be cut by the pruning shears 4) is sometimes accompanied. Therefore, it is considered that there are many opportunities to keep the pruning shears 4 in the sheath 6 in order to perform other work. Therefore, if the pruning shears 4 is automatically switched from the active mode (or the power-on state) to the standby mode (or the power-off state) while the pruning shears 4 is held by the sheath 6, the user will feel particularly troublesome. Therefore, according to the above-mentioned structure, the effect of being able to suppress the pruning shears 4 from automatically switching from the active mode (or the power-on state) to the standby mode (or the power-off state) while the pruning shears 4 is held by the sheath 6 is significantly exerted.

[0145] In one or more embodiments, the detection mechanism 46 includes a sheath detection sensor 48 (an example of a magnetic sensor) provided on the pruning shears 4 (an example of an operating machine and an operating machine retaining part) and a magnet 50 provided on the sheath 6 (an example of an operating machine and an operating machine retaining part).

[0146] According to the above-mentioned structure, the detection mechanism 46 can be realized in a simple manner.

[0147] In one or more embodiments, the sheath 6 further includes a second protrusion 44 (an example of a protrusion) that protrudes from the inner surface of the housing 34 and abuts against the trimming shears 4. The detection mechanism 46 includes a sheath detection sensor 48 (an example of a detection unit) and a magnet 50 (an example of a detected unit) that is detected by the sheath detection sensor 48. The sheath detection sensor 48 (an example of one of the detection unit and the detected unit) is provided on the trimming shears 4. The magnet 50 (an example of the other of the detection unit and the detected unit) is provided on the second protrusion 44 of the sheath 6.

[0148] In the above-mentioned structure, when the trimming scissors 4 are held by the sheath 6, if there is a deviation in the relative positional relationship between the sheath detection sensor 48 and the magnet 50, the detection accuracy of the detection mechanism 46 may be deteriorated. In this regard, according to the above-mentioned structure, the protrusion in the sheath 6 that contacts the trimming scissors 4 is provided with the magnet 50. Therefore, when the trimming scissors 4 are held by the sheath 6, the magnet 50 is arranged near the trimming scissors 4, and further arranged near the sheath detection sensor 48 provided on the trimming scissors 4. As a result, it is possible to suppress the deviation in the relative positional relationship between the sheath detection sensor 48 and the magnet 50 when the trimming scissors 4 are held by the sheath 6, so that the detection accuracy of the detection mechanism 46 can be improved.

[0149] In one or more embodiments, the pruning shears 4 can be held by the sheath 6. The pruning shears 4 include: a scissor portion 10 (an example of a working portion) that performs a cutting action (an example of a working action); an electric motor 54 that drives the scissor portion 10; an operating portion 12 that can be operated by a user; a power interface 60 (an example of a power connection portion) that is connected to a battery pack B (an example of a power source); a sheath detection sensor 48 (an example of a detection portion) that detects whether the pruning shears 4 is held by the sheath 6; and a control portion 96. The pruning shears 4 can be switched between an active mode (or a power-on state) (an example of a first state), in which the cutting action is allowed, and a standby mode (or a power-off state) (an example of a second state), in which the cutting action is prohibited, and in which an active switching operation of the trigger lever 20 (or an operation of the power switch 22) (an example of a predetermined switching operation of the operating portion) is required to switch to the active mode (or the power-on state). The control unit 96 is capable of executing a second state transition process ( ) for switching the trimming shears 4 from the active mode (or the power-on state) to the standby mode (or the power-off state). Fig.11 S18) (or Fig.11 In the case where the sheath detection sensor 48 detects that the trimming scissors 4 are not held by the sheath 6 (in Fig.11 In the case of S104 of the embodiment, if the trigger lever 20 is not operated for a predetermined time period Tb or longer, or the trigger lever 20 is switched to a standby state (or the trigger lever 20 is not operated for a predetermined time period Ta) (an example of a predetermined condition), the control unit 96 executes the second state transition process. Fig.11 In S104 of , if it is the case of YES, even if the condition that the inactivity time of the trigger lever 20 becomes longer than the predetermined time Tb, or the condition that the trigger lever 20 is subjected to a standby switching operation (or the condition that the inactivity time of the trigger lever 20 becomes longer than the predetermined time Ta) is satisfied, the control unit 96 does not execute the second state transition processing.

[0150] In the above-mentioned structure, when the pruning shears 4 is placed in the active mode (or the power-on state), the pruning shears 4 is automatically switched from the active mode (or the power-on state) to the standby mode (or the power-off state) by the second state transition process executed by the control unit 96. However, according to the above-mentioned structure, it is difficult to execute the second state transition process during the period when the pruning shears 4 is held by the sheath 6 compared with the period when the pruning shears 4 is not held by the sheath 6. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the pruning shears 4 from automatically switching from the active mode (or the power-on state) to the standby mode (or the power-off state) during the period when the pruning shears 4 is held by the sheath 6. As a result, it is possible to suppress the user from feeling trouble, and thus the convenience of the pruning shears 4 can be improved.

[0151] (Variation Example)

[0152] In the first and second embodiments, the working machine system 2 and 202 may also include working machines of other types instead of the pruning shears 4. For example, the working machine system 2 and 202 may also include a cutter, a riveter, or a grinder instead of the pruning shears 4. In this case, the housing portion 34 of the sheath 6 may also be configured in a manner capable of accommodating the blade portion of the cutter, the rivet holding portion of the riveter, or the blade portion of the grinder.

[0153] The cover 6 may include a mounting portion that is detachable from the user's body instead of the loop portion 32 or in addition to the loop portion 32. For example, the cover 6 may include a belt portion that is detachable from the user's arm or leg.

[0154] In the first and second embodiments, the trimming shears 4 may include a power supply cable connectable to an external power source such as a commercial power source instead of the power interface 60. In this case, the trimming shears 4 may be operated by the power supplied from the external power source.

[0155] In the first and second embodiments, the electric motor 54 may be replaced with a motor of a different type (for example, a brush motor or a core motor).

[0156] (Refer to Figure 8 ) In the first and second embodiments, the control device 52 may not include the power switch 108. In other words, the portion where the power switch 108 is provided may also be turned on.

[0157] (Refer to Figure 8 ) In the first and second embodiments, the power switch 108 may be provided between the power interface 60 and the inverter gate circuit 104. In this case, the power switch 108 may selectively connect and disconnect the power interface 60 and the inverter gate circuit 104.

[0158] (Refer to Figure 8) In the first and second embodiments, the power supply switch 108 may be provided between each of the six switches 122 and the inverter gate circuit 104. In this case, the power supply switch 108 may selectively connect and disconnect each of the six switches 122 and the inverter gate circuit 104.

[0159] (Refer to Figure 3 , Figure 4 ) In the first and second embodiments, the position of the sheath detection sensor 48 and the position of the magnet 50 may be exchanged. Specifically, the sheath detection sensor 48 may be provided on the sheath 6, and the magnet 50 may be provided on the pruning shears 4. In this case, a communication component for transmitting an output signal from the sheath detection sensor 48 to the control unit 96 of the pruning shears 4 may be provided between the pruning shears 4 and the sheath 6. The communication component may be composed of, for example, a transmitter provided on the sheath 6 and a receiver provided on the pruning shears 4.

[0160] (Refer to Figure 3 , Figure 4 ) In Examples 1 and 2, the magnet 50 may be disposed in the sheath 6 at a location other than the interior of the second protrusion 44. For example, the magnet 50 may be disposed at a location on the inner surface of the shell portion 34 where the first protrusion 42 and the second protrusion 44 are not provided.

[0161] (Refer to Figure 3 , Figure 4 ) In the first and second embodiments, the sheath detection sensor 48 may be replaced by a detection unit of a different type. The magnet 50 may also be replaced by a detected unit of a different type. For example, the sheath detection sensor 48 may be replaced by a photointerrupter including a light emitting element and a light receiving element. The magnet 50 may be replaced by a detection object that blocks the light emitting element and the light receiving element of the photointerrupter when the pruning shears 4 are held by the sheath 6. In this case, the detection mechanism 46 may detect whether the pruning shears 4 are held by the sheath 6 based on whether the light emitting element and the light receiving element of the photointerrupter are blocked by the detection object. Alternatively, the sheath detection sensor 48 may be replaced by a contact sensor (for example, a micro switch). The magnet 50 may be replaced by a detection object that abuts against the contact sensor when the pruning shears 4 are held by the sheath 6. In this case, the detection mechanism 46 may detect whether the pruning shears 4 are held by the sheath 6 based on whether the detection object abuts against the contact sensor.

[0162] (Refer to Fig. 9 , Fig.11) The values ​​of the predetermined times Ta and Tb in the first and second embodiments may also be changed according to the use environment of the pruning shears 4. In addition, the values ​​of the predetermined times Tc and Td in the first embodiment may also be changed according to the use environment of the pruning shears 4 within the range where the relationship Ta<Tc, Tb<Td holds true. For example, the control unit 96 may also change the values ​​of the predetermined times Ta and Tb (and Tc and Td) according to the temperature detected by the temperature detection sensor 114. Alternatively, the user may also change the values ​​of the predetermined times Ta and Tb (and Tc and Td) by means of a switch not shown.

Claims

1. A working machine system, wherein: The working machine system comprises a working machine, a working machine holder and a detection mechanism. The working machine includes: a working part that performs working actions; an electric motor that drives the working part; an operating part that can be operated by a user; a power connection part that is connected to a power source; and a control part. The working machine holder comprises: a housing portion, which can at least accommodate the working unit; and a mounting portion, which is mounted on the user in a detachable manner. The detection mechanism detects whether the working machine is held by the working machine holding member. The working machine can be switched between a first state and a second state, wherein the working action is permitted in the first state and prohibited in the second state, and a predetermined switching operation of the operating unit is required in order to switch to the first state. The control unit is configured to execute a second state transition process for switching the working machine from the first state to the second state when a predetermined condition is satisfied. When the detection means detects that the working machine is not held by the working machine holding member, the predetermined condition includes that the time for which the working machine has been left unused is equal to or longer than a first predetermined time. When the detection mechanism detects that the working machine is held by the working machine holder, the predetermined condition includes that the idle time of the working machine becomes equal to or longer than a second predetermined time that is longer than the first predetermined time.

2. A working machine system, wherein: The working machine system comprises a working machine, a working machine holder and a detection mechanism. The working machine includes: a working part that performs working actions; an electric motor that drives the working part; an operating part that can be operated by a user; a power connection part that is connected to a power source; and a control part. The working machine holder comprises: a housing portion, which can at least accommodate the working unit; and a mounting portion, which is mounted on the user in a detachable manner. The detection mechanism detects whether the working machine is held by the working machine holding member. The working machine can be switched between a first state and a second state, wherein the working action is permitted in the first state and prohibited in the second state, and a predetermined switching operation of the operating unit is required in order to switch to the first state. The control unit is configured to execute a second state transition process for switching the working machine from the first state to the second state. When the detection means detects that the working machine is not held by the working machine holding member, the control unit executes the second state transition process if a predetermined condition is satisfied, When the detection mechanism detects that the working machine is held by the working machine holder, the control unit does not execute the second state transition process even if the predetermined condition is satisfied.

3. The working machine system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The operation unit includes a trigger operation unit for causing the working unit to perform the working action. The first state is an active state in which the control unit activates the electric motor to cause the working unit to perform the working action when the trigger operation unit is operated. The second state is a standby state in which the control unit does not cause the working unit to perform the working action even if the trigger operation unit is operated. The switching operation includes an activity switching operation on the trigger operation unit, The second state transition process is a standby state transition process for switching the working machine from the active state to the standby state.

4. The working machine system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The operating unit includes a power switch. The first state is a power-on state in which power is supplied from the power source to the control unit. The second state is a power-off state in which power is not supplied from the power supply to the control unit. The switching operation includes operating the power switch, The second state transition process is a power-off state transition process for switching the working machine from the power-on state to the power-off state.

5. The working machine system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: The working machine includes a switch circuit for selectively connecting and disconnecting the power source and the electric motor. The switch circuit electrically connects the power source and the electric motor when the detection mechanism detects that the working machine is not held by the working machine holder, and electrically disconnects the power source and the electric motor when the detection mechanism detects that the working machine is held by the working machine holder.

6. The working machine system according to claim 5, wherein: The switch circuit operates independently of the control unit.

7. The working machine system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: The working portion includes: a first knife; and a second knife that can move between an open position and a closed position relative to the first knife. The working operation is an operation of moving the second knife from the open position to the closed position.

8. The working machine system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein: The testing organization has: a magnetic sensor provided on one of the working machine and the working machine holder; as well as A magnet is provided on the other of the working machine and the working machine holder.

9. The working machine system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein: The working machine holder further includes a protrusion, which protrudes from the inner surface of the housing and abuts against the working machine. The testing organization has: Testing Department; a detected portion, which is detected by the detecting portion, One of the detecting unit and the detected unit is provided on the working machine. The other of the detecting portion and the detected portion is provided on the protruding portion of the working machine holder.

10. A working machine capable of being held by a working machine holding member, wherein: The operating machine has: an operating unit, which performs operating actions; an electric motor that drives the working part; An operating unit capable of being operated by a user; A power connection part connected to a power source; a detection unit that detects whether the working machine is held by the working machine holding member; as well as Control Department, The working machine can be switched between a first state and a second state, wherein the working action is permitted in the first state and prohibited in the second state, and a predetermined switching operation of the operating unit is required in order to switch to the first state. The control unit is configured to execute a second state transition process for switching the working machine from the first state to the second state when a predetermined condition is satisfied. When the detection unit detects that the working machine is not held by the working machine holder, the predetermined condition includes that the time for which the working machine has been left unused is equal to or longer than a first predetermined time. When the detection unit detects that the working machine is held by the working machine holder, the predetermined condition includes that the idle time of the working machine becomes equal to or longer than a second predetermined time that is longer than the first predetermined time.

11. A working machine capable of being held by a working machine holding member, wherein: The operating machine has: an operating unit, which performs operating actions; an electric motor that drives the working part; An operating unit capable of being operated by a user; A power connection part connected to a power source; a detection unit that detects whether the working machine is held by the working machine holding member; as well as Control Department, The working machine can be switched between a first state and a second state, wherein the working action is permitted in the first state and prohibited in the second state, and a predetermined switching operation of the operating unit is required in order to switch to the first state. The control unit is configured to execute a second state transition process for switching the working machine from the first state to the second state. When the detection unit detects that the working machine is not held by the working machine holding member, the control unit executes the second state transition process if a predetermined condition is satisfied, When the detection unit detects that the working machine is held by the working machine holder, the control unit does not execute the second state transition process even if the predetermined condition is satisfied.

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