Hand-held power tool with actuator mechanism

Abstract

Disclosed is a hand-held power tool (1) comprising an actuator mechanism (4) comprising: a first mechanism member (11) comprising a push button unit (5) and a guide unit (7); and a second mechanism member (12) attached to the tool body (3). The first mechanism member (11) is attached to the second mechanism member (12) in a pivotable manner between a deactivated position and an activated position. The first and second mechanism members (11, 12) form a locking mechanism (6) configured to allow the first mechanism member (11) to pivot from the deactivated position to the activated position when the button unit (5) is in the unlocked position. The push-button unit (5) is arranged to be slidable relative to the guide unit (7) from a locked position towards an unlocked position in a first direction (d1) directed towards the tool body (3).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a hand-held power tool that includes an actuator mechanism disposed on a tool body of the hand-held power tool. Background Art

[0002] A hand-held power tool is a tool that is intended to be supported by one or both hands of a user during operation. In addition, a hand-held power tool includes a tool that can be driven by a power source rather than only by manual labor. The power source can include, for example, an internal combustion engine, an electric motor, a pneumatic motor, etc.

[0003] Today, there are many types of power tools on the market. Examples are chain saws, circular saws, crosscut saws, trimmers, hedge trimmers, string trimmers, brush cutters, multi-tools, etc. Power tools are used, for example, in industry, construction, gardens, household tasks, and around the house for cutting, shaping, sanding, grinding, wiring, polishing, etc.

[0004] A hand-held power tool includes one or more handles, and the hand-held power tool is configured to be supported via the one or more handles during operation. In addition, many hand-held power tools include a throttle actuator disposed on or at one of the plurality of handles, and the operation of the power source can be controlled via the throttle actuator.

[0005] Different types of hand-held power tools are associated with some common problems. One problem is safety. That is, power tools can include sharp tools and a powerful power source for powering the tools, which poses a safety risk.

[0006] As part of the cause of this problem, in some administrative regions, there may be legal requirements that stipulate that at least some types of hand-held power tools must be provided with some enabling mechanism, and the user needs to actuate the enabling mechanism before the throttle actuator disposed on or at the handle of the hand-held power tool can be used to operate the hand-held power tool.

[0007] In addition, in some administrative regions and for some types of hand-held power tools, there may be legal requirements that stipulate that before the hand-held power tool can be operated, such an enabling mechanism must be moved by the user in two different directions.

[0008] When designing power tools and associated parts and components, other common problems are related to the user-friendliness. That is, it is advantageous if the hand-held power tool and associated parts and components are designed such that the user can operate and use the power tool in a simple and intuitive manner.

[0009] Another issue is ergonomics. That is, it is advantageous if a hand-held power tool can be designed to be operated and used in a convenient and ergonomic manner.

[0010] Furthermore, generally, in today's consumer market, it is advantageous if a product includes different features and functions, and at the same time the product has conditions and / or characteristics suitable for being manufactured and assembled in a cost-effective manner. Summary of the Invention

[0011] An object of the present invention is to overcome or at least mitigate at least some of the above problems and drawbacks.

[0012] According to a first aspect of the present invention, this object is achieved by a hand-held power tool, which comprises: a tool body; an actuator mechanism arranged on the tool body; and a power source for powering the tool of the hand-held power tool, wherein the actuator mechanism comprises: a first mechanism member including a button unit and a guiding unit; and a second mechanism member attached to the tool body. The first mechanism member is attached to the second mechanism member in a manner that can pivot about a pivot axis between a deactivated position and an activated position, and the first mechanism member is operably connected to a part of the power source, such that when the first mechanism member is positioned in the deactivated position, the power source is in at least a partially deactivated state, and such that when the first mechanism member is positioned in the activated position the power source is in an activated state. The first mechanism member and the second mechanism member form a locking mechanism, which is configured to lock the first mechanism member when the button unit is in a locked position so that the first mechanism member cannot pivot about the pivot axis from the deactivated position in a first pivot direction, and is configured to allow the first mechanism member to pivot from the deactivated position to the activated position in the first pivot direction when the button unit is in an unlocked position. The button unit is arranged relative to the guiding unit in a manner that can slide in a first direction pointing towards the tool body from the locked position towards the unlocked position.

[0013] Therefore, a hand-held power tool is provided, which comprises an actuator mechanism that requires the button unit to move in two different directions so that the power source can be in an activated state, while having the condition of being used in a simple, ergonomic and intuitive manner. In other words, a hand-held power tool is provided, which comprises a safety actuator mechanism that can meet legal requirements while having the condition of being used in a simple, ergonomic and intuitive manner.

[0014] More specifically, since the button unit is arranged relative to the guiding unit so as to be slidable in a first direction pointing towards the tool body from a locked position towards an unlocked position, the first mechanism member is locked so that the first mechanism member cannot pivot from a deactivated position in a first pivoting direction before the button unit is pressed from the locked position to the unlocked position in the first direction. Therefore, a user of the hand-held power tool needs to press the button unit in the first direction pointing towards the tool body and then pivot the first mechanism member including the button unit about a pivot axis so that the power source is in an enabled state. Thereby, a hand-held power tool including a safety actuator mechanism that can meet legal requirements is provided.

[0015] In addition, since the power source of the hand-held power tool can be in an enabled state by pressing the button unit in the first direction pointing towards the tool body and then pivoting the button unit about a pivot axis, the actuator mechanism can be used in a simple, ergonomic, user-friendly and intuitive manner.

[0016] Some prior art solutions require the user to pull the button in a direction away from the tool body of the hand-held power tool and then move the button in a pivoting motion in the up-and-down direction relative to the tool body. Compared with such solutions, the requirement to press the button unit in the first direction pointing towards the tool body according to the embodiments herein provides a more ergonomic, user-friendly and intuitive solution for allowing the user to put the power source of the hand-held power tool in an enabled state.

[0017] In addition, since the actuator mechanism is configured to put the power source in an enabled state when the first mechanism member including the button unit pivots to an actuated position, an intuitive and user-friendly actuator mechanism is provided because the user can simply identify whether the power source is in an enabled state or a deactivated state by monitoring the pivoting position of the first mechanism member relative to the tool body and / or the pivoting position of the button unit relative to the tool body.

[0018] Therefore, a hand-held power tool is provided that overcomes or at least mitigates at least some of the above problems and disadvantages. Thus, the above object is achieved.

[0019] Optionally, the first direction is substantially perpendicular to the pivot axis. Therefore, a hand-held power tool is provided that includes an actuator mechanism that can be used in a more simple and more intuitive manner. This is because the user can put the power source in an enabled state only by pressing the button unit in the first direction and then pivot the first mechanism member by pivoting the button unit about a pivot axis that is substantially perpendicular to the pivot axis.

[0020] Furthermore, due to these features, a hand-held power tool is provided, which includes an actuator mechanism having the condition of enabling a power source in a simple, reliable, ergonomic, and intuitive manner using one hand or a finger of a hand.

[0021] Optionally, the locking mechanism is formed by a protrusion provided on the button unit and a recess provided on the second mechanism member. Thus, a hand-held power tool is provided, which includes an actuator mechanism having conditions and features suitable for being manufactured and assembled in a cost-effective manner, while the actuator mechanism has the condition for securely and reliably locking the first mechanism member in the deactivated position when the button unit is in the locked position.

[0022] Optionally, the protrusion is configured to protrude into the recess when the button unit is in the locked position to lock the first mechanism member by abutting contact between the protrusion and the first side wall of the recess, preventing the first mechanism member from pivoting about the pivot axis in the first pivot direction, and the protrusion is configured to move out of the recess when the button unit is moved to the unlocked position to allow the first mechanism member to pivot about the pivot axis in the first pivot direction. Thus, a hand-held power tool is provided, which includes an actuator mechanism having multiple conditions for providing secure and reliable locking of the first mechanism member to prevent the first mechanism member from pivoting from the deactivated position about the pivot axis in the first pivot direction when the button unit is in the locked position, while the actuator mechanism has multiple conditions and features suitable for being manufactured and assembled in a cost-effective manner.

[0023] Furthermore, when the button unit is pressed in the first direction, it can be ensured that the locking mechanism is unlocked in a simple, efficient, and reliable manner. Thus, in this way, it can be ensured that when the power source is desired to be enabled, the first mechanism member is allowed to pivot about the pivot axis in the first pivot direction.

[0024] Optionally, the button unit is configured to be held in the unlocked position by abutting contact between the protrusion and the surface of the second mechanism member when the first mechanism member is in the enabled position. Thereby, a simple, efficient, and reliable solution for holding the button unit in the unlocked position is provided. Furthermore, in this way, a more intuitive and user-friendly actuator mechanism is provided, because the user can simply identify whether the power source is in the enabled state or the deactivated state by monitoring the position of the button unit.

[0025] Optionally, the actuator mechanism includes an elastic element configured to bias the button unit in a second direction opposite to the first direction. Accordingly, a handheld power tool is provided that includes an even safer and more reliable actuator mechanism. This is because it is possible to ensure that the button unit remains in the locked position when the first mechanism member is in the deactivated position and no pressing force acts on the button unit in the first direction. In other words, due to these features, it can be ensured that the power source remains in the deactivated state until a pressing force that overcomes the biasing force of the elastic element is applied to the button unit.

[0026] Furthermore, due to the biasing force of the elastic element, it can be ensured that when the button unit has been pressed to the unlocked position, the first mechanism member has been pivoted to the activated position, and the user has released the pressing force on the button unit, the first mechanism member remains in the activated position. This is because when the first mechanism member is in the activated position, the biasing force of the elastic element can provide a stronger abutting contact between the protrusion and the surface of the second mechanism member. Thus, for the same reason, a more reliable and user-friendly actuator mechanism is provided.

[0027] Optionally, the power source is an internal combustion engine including a choke valve, and wherein a part of the power source is a choke valve actuator connected to the choke valve of the internal combustion engine. Accordingly, a handheld power tool is provided that includes an actuator mechanism that can control the position of the choke valve of the internal combustion engine of the handheld power tool in a simple, reliable, ergonomic, user-friendly, and intuitive manner.

[0028] Optionally, when the button unit is in the locked position, the locking mechanism allows the first mechanism member to pivot from the deactivated position in a second pivot direction opposite to the first pivot direction. Accordingly, conditions are provided for adding additional functions controlled via the actuator mechanism of the handheld power tool. In other words, conditions are provided for adding features and functions controlled via the actuator mechanism in a simple, reliable, ergonomic, user-friendly, and intuitive manner.

[0029] Optionally, the actuator mechanism includes a switch configured to be triggered when the first mechanism member pivots from the deactivated position to the shutdown position in a second pivot direction opposite to the first pivot direction. Thereby, conditions are provided for adding additional functions to the handheld power tool, wherein one or more aspects of the handheld power tool can be simply controlled by pivoting the first mechanism member in the second pivot direction to the shutdown position to thereby trigger the switch.

[0030] Optionally, the switch is configured to render the power source inoperable when triggered. Thus, there is provided a hand-held power tool including an actuator mechanism that can be used to place the power source in an enabled or disabled state and can be used to render the power source inoperable simply by pivoting a first mechanism member in a second pivoting direction to a shutdown position. Thus, due to these features, the actuator mechanism can be used to achieve all these purposes in a simple, reliable, ergonomic, user-friendly, and intuitive manner. In addition, since the actuator mechanism can be used to achieve all these purposes, conditions are provided for alleviating packaging problems on the hand-held power tool. In addition, there is provided a hand-held power tool having conditions and characteristics suitable for being manufactured and assembled in a cost-effective manner.

[0031] In addition, since the locking mechanism also allows the first mechanism member to pivot in the second pivoting direction when the button unit is in the locked position, the power source can be rendered inoperable in a simple, quick, and reliable manner by pivoting the first mechanism member to the shutdown position using the button unit.

[0032] Optionally, the power source is an internal combustion engine including an ignition system, and wherein the switch is configured to render the ignition system of the internal combustion engine inoperable when triggered. Thereby, there is provided a hand-held power tool in which the power source is rendered inoperable in an effective and reliable manner when the first mechanism member pivots from a disabled position to a shutdown position in a second pivoting direction.

[0033] Optionally, the hand-held power tool is a chainsaw or a power cutter. Thus, there is provided a chainsaw or a power cutter having at least some of the above advantages.

[0034] Additional features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent when studying the appended claims and the following detailed description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0035] Various aspects of the present invention, including its specific features and advantages, will be readily understood from the following detailed description and the exemplary embodiments discussed in the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0036] Figure 1 A hand-held power tool according to some embodiments is shown,

[0037] Figure 2a is shown Figure 1 the actuator mechanism of the hand-held power tool shown in

[0038] Figure 2b is shown Figure 2a the actuator mechanism shown in, wherein the button unit is moved to an unlocked position and the first mechanism member pivots from a disabled position to an enabled position;

[0039] Figure 2c shows Figure 2a the actuator mechanism shown in, wherein a first mechanism member pivots from a deactivated position to a shutdown position,

[0040] Figure 3a shows Figure 2a a cross-section of the actuator mechanism shown in;

[0041] Figure 3b shows Figure 3a a cross-section of the actuator mechanism shown in, wherein a button unit moves to an unlocked position and a first mechanism member pivots from a deactivated position to an enabled position, and

[0042] Figure 3c shows Figure 3a the actuator mechanism shown in, wherein a first mechanism member pivots from a deactivated position to a shutdown position. Detailed Description

[0043] Aspects of the present invention will now be described more fully. Identical reference numerals throughout the text denote identical elements. For the sake of brevity and / or clarity, well-known functions or configurations will not necessarily be described in detail.

[0044] Figure 1 Shows a handheld power tool 1 according to some embodiments of the present invention. The handheld power tool 1 includes a tool body 3 and a first handle h1 and a second handle h2 attached to the tool body 3. The second handle h2 is separated from the first handle h1 and is arranged at a distance from the first handle h1. The handheld power tool 1 is configured to be supported via each of the first handle h1 and the second handle h2 during operation of the handheld power tool 1. In other words, the handheld power tool 1 is configured to be supported by both hands of a user during operation of the handheld power tool 1, that is, configured to be supported by grasping the first handle h1 with one hand and the second handle h2 with the other hand. According to other embodiments, the handheld power tool 1 may include only one handle.

[0045] The handheld power tool 1 includes a tool 30 and a power source 10 configured to supply energy to the tool 30. According to the illustrated embodiment, the power source 10 is arranged in the tool body 3. In addition, according to the illustrated embodiment, the handheld power tool 1 is a chainsaw, which includes a tool 30 in the form of a cutting chain movably arranged around a guide bar. In Figure 1 which, a part of the cutting chain is schematically shown in dashed lines. The power source 10 is configured to rotate the cutting chain around the guide bar during operation of the power source 10.

[0046] According to other embodiments, the handheld power tool 1 as mentioned herein can be another type of handheld power tool 1, such as, for example, an electric cutting machine, a circular saw, a trimmer, a hedge trimmer, a multi-tool, etc. Obviously, according to such an embodiment, the handheld power tool 1 can include another type of tool 30 other than the cutting chain, such as a circular saw blade, a trimming head, a hedge trimmer cutting assembly, etc.

[0047] According to the illustrated embodiment, the power source 10 of the handheld power tool 1 is an internal combustion engine. More specifically, according to the illustrated embodiment, the power source 10 is a small two-stroke internal combustion engine. The handheld power tool 1 includes a fuel tank 13 configured to store fuel that is supplied to the internal combustion engine during operation of the internal combustion engine.

[0048] According to some other embodiments, the handheld power tool 1 can include another type of power source 10, such as a small four-stroke internal combustion engine or an electric motor. In context, the term "small" can cover internal combustion engines having an engine displacement of less than 250 cubic centimeters. According to the embodiment in which the power source 10 includes an electric motor, the handheld power tool 1 can include a battery for powering the electric motor during its operation. As an alternative or in addition, the handheld power tool 1 can include another type of device for powering the electric motor during its operation, such as an electrical connector for connecting the electric motor to a power cord.

[0049] According to the illustrated embodiment, the first handle h1 is a rear handle disposed at the rear portion of the handheld power tool 1, and the second handle h2 is a so-called front handle. According to the illustrated embodiment, the second handle h2 is attached to the tool body 3 of the handheld power tool 1 in the region where the tool portion 30' of the handheld power tool 1 is located. The tool portion 30' is the portion of the handheld power tool 1 that connects the tool 30 of the handheld power tool 1. In other words, according to the illustrated embodiment, the second handle h2 of the handheld power tool 1 is arranged closer to the tool 30 of the handheld power tool 1 than the first handle h1. In addition, the second handle h2 is arranged at a position between the tool 30 of the handheld power tool 1 and the first handle h1 of the handheld power tool 1.

[0050] The first handle h1 includes a grip portion h1' configured to be gripped by the user's hand during operation of the handheld power tool 1. Similarly, the second handle h2 includes a grip portion h2' configured to be gripped by the user's hand during operation of the handheld power tool 1. The second handle h2 is formed of an elongated curved body to allow the user to grip the grip portion h2' of the second handle h2 in a convenient manner from various directions, thereby allowing the user to operate the handheld power tool 1 in different orientations relative to the gravitational field in a convenient and safe manner.

[0051] The handheld power tool 1 includes a throttle actuator 35. According to the illustrated embodiment, the throttle actuator 35 is arranged on the first handle h1 such that when the user's hand grasps the gripping portion h1' of the first handle h1, the throttle actuator 35 can be actuated by one or more fingers of the user's hand. According to other embodiments, the throttle actuator 35 can be arranged at a location where the first handle h1 is located such that when the user's hand grasps the gripping portion h1' of the first handle h1, the throttle actuator 35 can be actuated by one or more fingers of the user's hand.

[0052] According to the illustrated embodiment, the throttle actuator 35 is operatively connected to a throttle valve of an intake system of an internal combustion engine. Thereby, the power output of the internal combustion engine can be adjusted by the throttle actuator 35. According to other embodiments, the throttle actuator 35 is operatively connected to another type of device or system of the power source 10 to adjust the power output of the power source 10. For example, in an embodiment where the power source 10 includes an electric motor, the throttle actuator 35 can be operatively connected to power electronics for adjusting the power output of the electric motor.

[0053] In Figure 1 FIG., the handheld power tool 1 is shown positioned on a flat horizontal support surface Hs in a generally upright parked position. When the handheld power tool 1 is positioned on the flat horizontal support surface Hs in the generally upright parked position, the bottom side 42 of the handheld power tool 1 rests (i.e., abuts) on the flat horizontal support surface Hs.

[0054] When the handheld power tool 1 is positioned on the flat horizontal support surface Hs in the generally upright parked position, the first handle h1 and the second handle h2 of the handheld power tool 1 can be easily accessed because when the handheld power tool 1 is positioned on the flat horizontal support surface Hs in the generally upright parked position, the intended gripping directions of the gripping portions h1', h2' of the first handle h1 and the second handle h2 are substantially perpendicular to the flat horizontal support surface Hs.

[0055] The reason for using the word "generally" in the expression "generally upright parked position" herein is that the handheld power tool 1 can be positioned on the flat horizontal support surface Hs in another direction relative to the flat horizontal support surface Hs, such as being placed on one side of the flat horizontal support surface Hs. However, if so, the intended gripping directions of the gripping portions h1', h2' of the first handle h1 and the second handle h2 will not be substantially perpendicular to the flat horizontal support surface Hs. Additionally, if so, the bottom side 42 of the handheld power tool 1 will obviously not rest on the flat horizontal support surface Hs.

[0056] According to an embodiment herein, the handheld power tool 1 includes an actuator mechanism 4 disposed on the tool body 3. According to the illustrated embodiment, the actuator mechanism 4 is disposed on a portion of the tool body 3 adjacent to the first handle h1. The actuator mechanism 4 is configured to allow a user to place the power source 10 in an enabled or disabled state, as further explained herein.

[0057] Figure 2a is shown Figure 1 the actuator mechanism 4 of the handheld power tool 1 shown in. Further, in Figure 2a a portion of the tool body 3 and a portion 10' of the power source of the handheld power tool can be seen. Hereinafter, if not otherwise indicated, reference is made simultaneously to Figure 1 and Figure 2a .

[0058] The actuator mechanism 4 includes a first mechanism member 11. The first mechanism member 11 includes a button unit 5 and a guide unit 7. The button unit 5 is slidably disposed relative to the guide unit 7 to slide from a locked position along a first direction d1 toward an unlocked position. As can be seen in these figures, the first direction d1 points toward the tool body 3. In Figure 1 and Figure 2b the button unit 5 is shown in a locked position relative to the guide unit 7. The actuator mechanism 4 further includes a second mechanism member 12 attached to the tool body 3.

[0059] The first mechanism member 11 is pivotally attached to the second mechanism member 12 to pivot about a pivot axis pA between a disabled position and an enabled position. In other words, the first mechanism member 11 is pivotally attached to the tool body 3 via the second mechanism member 12. In Figure 1 and Figure 2b the first mechanism member 11 is shown in the disabled position.

[0060] As further explained herein, when the first mechanism member 11 is in the disabled position and the button unit 5 is in the locked position, the first mechanism member 11 is locked against pivoting about the pivot axis pA relative to the second mechanism member 12 in a first pivot direction pd1.

[0061] The first mechanism member 11 is operably connected to a portion 10' of the power source 10 such that the power source 10 is in at least a partially disabled state when the first mechanism member 11 is positioned in the disabled position, and such that the power source 10 is in an enabled state when the first mechanism member 11 is positioned in the enabled position.

[0062] As described above, according to the illustrated embodiment, the power source 10 is an internal combustion engine. Further, according to the illustrated embodiment, a portion 10' of the power source 10 is part of the choke valve actuator 22. The choke valve actuator 22 is connected to the choke valve of the internal combustion engine. According to these embodiments, the first mechanism member 11 is operably connected to the choke valve via the choke valve actuator 22 such that the choke valve presents an open state when the first mechanism member 11 is in the deactivated position and such that the choke valve presents a closed state when the first mechanism member 11 is in the activated position.

[0063] As understood from above, according to the illustrated embodiment, the activated state of the power source 10 as referred to herein is a state in which the choke valve of the internal combustion engine is in the closed state. The closed choke valve significantly enhances the starting performance of the internal combustion engine because the flow of air is restricted by the choke valve, which reduces the air / fuel ratio, that is, increases the proportion of fuel in the air / fuel mixture supplied to the cylinders of the engine.

[0064] Further, as understood from above, according to the illustrated embodiment, the deactivated state of the power source 10 as referred to herein is a state in which the choke valve of the internal combustion engine is in the open state. The open choke valve significantly weakens the starting performance of the internal combustion engine because the flow of air is not restricted by the choke valve, and the choke valve causes a relatively high air / fuel ratio, that is, reduces the proportion of fuel in the air / fuel mixture supplied to the cylinders of the engine, which makes it difficult for the engine to start.

[0065] However, according to other embodiments, as referred to herein, the deactivated state of the power source 10 may be another type of state that deactivates the power source 10 at least partially, such as not ready to operate or not prepared to operate. Similarly, as referred to herein, the activated state of the power source 10 may be another type of state that activates the power source 10, that is, ready and / or prepared to operate.

[0066] As described above, in Figure 2a the first mechanism member 11 is shown in the deactivated position and the button unit 5 is shown in the locked position. According to the illustrated embodiment, the actuator mechanism 4 includes an elastic element 19 that is configured to bias the button unit 5 in a second direction d2 opposite to the first direction d1. The second direction d2 points away from the tool body 3 of the handheld power tool 1. The second direction d2 is also shown in Figure 1

[0067] According to the illustrated embodiment, the elastic element 19 is a helical spring. Thus, the elastic element 19 referred to herein may also be referred to as a helical spring, a spring member, etc. According to other embodiments, the actuator mechanism 4 may include another type of elastic element other than the helical spring as long as it is configured to bias the button unit 5 in a second direction d2 opposite to the first direction d1.​

[0068] The first mechanism member 11 and the second mechanism member 12 form a locking mechanism that is configured to lock the first mechanism member 11 to prevent the first mechanism member 11 from pivoting about the pivot axis pA in the first pivoting direction pd1 from the deactivated position when the button unit 5 is in the locked position, and is configured to allow the first mechanism member 11 to pivot from the deactivated position to the activated position in the first pivoting direction pd1 when the button unit 5 is in the unlocked position.

[0069] In other words, in Figure 2a the first mechanism member 11 is locked against pivoting about the pivot axis pA in the first pivoting direction pd1 as shown in Figure 2a from the deactivated position. This is because the button unit 5 is in the locked position relative to the guide unit 7.

[0070] Figure 2b Illustrated is Figure 2a the actuator mechanism 4 as shown in

[0071] wherein the button unit 5 has been moved to the unlocked position and the first mechanism member 11 pivots (i.e., rotates) about the pivot axis pA in the first pivoting direction pd1 from the deactivated position to the activated position. Figure 2a That is, compared with Figure 2b illustrates when the user has pressed the button unit 5 in the first direction d1 to move the button unit 5 from the locked position to the unlocked position relative to the guide unit 7 and then pivoted the first mechanism member 11 from the deactivated position to the activated position by applying a force to the button unit 5 in a direction substantially consistent with the arrow "pd1" in Figure 2a and Figure 2b the relative positions of the components of the actuator mechanism 4 that are achieved.

[0072] According to the illustrated embodiment, the first mechanism member 11 is operatively connected via a portion 7' of the guide member 7 to a portion 10' of the choke valve actuator 22. According to the illustrated embodiment, the portion 7' of the guide unit 7 is elongate and may also be referred to as an actuator portion, an actuator arm, etc. In Figure 2b the portion 7' of the guide member 7 has moved the portion 10' of the choke valve actuator 22 such that when the first mechanism member 11 pivots from the deactivated position as shown in Figure 2a to the activated position as shown in Figure 2b the choke valve of the internal combustion engine has moved from the open position to the closed position.

[0073] Figure 2c Illustrated is Figure 2aThe actuator mechanism 4 shown therein, wherein a first mechanism member 11 pivots (i.e., rotates) about a pivot axis pA in a second pivoting direction pd2 from a deactivated position to a shutdown position. The second pivoting direction pd2 is opposite to the first pivoting direction pd1.

[0074] According to the illustrated embodiment, a locking mechanism formed by the first mechanism member and the second mechanism member 11, 12 allows the first mechanism member 11 to pivot in the second pivoting direction pd2 from the deactivated position, regardless of the position of the button unit 5 relative to the guide unit 7, i.e., regardless of whether the button unit 5 is in an unlocked position or a locked position relative to the guide unit 7.

[0075] According to the illustrated embodiment, the actuator mechanism 4 includes a switch 23. The switch 23 is configured to be triggered when the first mechanism member 11 pivots in the second pivoting direction pd2 from the deactivated position to the shutdown position.

[0076] The following refers to Figure 3c to further explain the features, functions, and advantages of this aspect. In Figure 2c for the sake of brevity, the elastic element 19 of the actuator mechanism 4 is omitted. Instead, the first abutment portion 19' for the Figure 2a elastic element 19 shown in Figure 2a is indicated. In other words, in Figure 2c the elastic element 19 abuts against the first abutment portion 19' represented in

[0077] Figure 3a shows Figure 2a a cross-section of the actuator mechanism 4 shown in Figure 3a In Figure 3a a cross-section is formed by taking a plane perpendicular to the pivot axis pA of the first mechanism member 11. In addition, in Figure 3a a part of the tool body 3 can be seen. However, in Figure 3a for reasons of brevity and clarity, in Figure 3a a part 10' of the power source (including the part 10' of the choke valve actuator 22) and a part 7' of the guide unit 7 of the first mechanism member 11 are omitted. In addition, in Figure 2a for the sake of brevity, the elastic element 19 of the actuator mechanism 4 is omitted. Instead, the second abutment portion 19'' and the first abutment portion 19' for the

[0078] As Figure 3a shown, the first abutment portion 19' is arranged in the button unit 5, and the second abutment portion 19'' is arranged on the guide unit 7. The elastic element (such as Figure 2aThe elastic element 19) shown is configured to apply a separating force between a first abutment portion and second abutment portions 19', 19". Thereby, the button unit 5 is biased in the second direction d2 relative to the guide unit 7 by the biasing force of the elastic element.

[0079] In Figure 3a is shown the button unit 5 in a locked position relative to the guide unit 7 and the first mechanism member 11 in a deactivated position. In other words, in Figure 3a are shown the components of the actuator mechanism 4 in the same relative positions as in Figure 2a

[0080] In Figure 3a is indicated the locking mechanism 6 formed by the first mechanism member 11 and the second mechanism member 12. As described above, the locking mechanism 6 is configured to lock the first mechanism member 11 to prevent the first mechanism member 11 from pivoting about the pivot axis pA in the first pivoting direction pd1 from the deactivated position when the first mechanism member 11 is in the deactivated position and the button unit 5 is in the locked position relative to the guide unit 7.

[0081] According to the illustrated embodiment, the locking mechanism 6 is formed by a protrusion 17 arranged on the button unit 5 and a recess 9 arranged on the second mechanism member 12. As Figure 3a shown, the protrusion 17 is configured to protrude into the recess 9 when the button unit 5 is in the locked position, thereby locking the first mechanism member 11 so that it does not pivot about the pivot axis pA in the first pivoting direction pd1. More specifically, according to the illustrated embodiment, when the button unit 5 is in the locked position relative to the guide unit 7, the locking mechanism 6 is configured to lock the first mechanism member 11 to prevent the first mechanism member 11 from pivoting about the pivot axis pA in the first pivoting direction pd1 by abutting contact between the protrusion 17 and the first side wall 9' of the recess 9.

[0082] Thereby, when the button unit 5 is in the locked position relative to the guide unit 7, the first mechanism member 11 cannot pivot from the deactivated position to the activated position.

[0083] The protrusion 17 arranged on the button unit 5 is configured to move out of the recess 9 when the button unit 5 is moved to the unlocking position along the first direction d1. When the protrusion 17 has moved out of the recess 9, the first mechanism member 11 can pivot freely from the deactivated position to the activated position in the first pivoting direction pd1.

[0084] Figure 3b Shown Figure 3a ​A cross-section of the actuator mechanism 4 shown, in which the button unit 5 is moved relative to the guide unit 7 to an unlocked position, and the first mechanism member 11 pivots (i.e., rotates) relative to the second mechanism member 12 about the pivot axis pA in a first pivot direction pd1 from a deactivated position to an activated position.

[0085] That is, compared with Figure 3a Figure 3b It shows that when the user has pressed the button unit 5 in the first direction d1 to move the button unit 5 relative to the guide unit 7 from a locked position to an unlocked position and then applied a force to the button unit 5 in a direction substantially consistent with the arrow "pd1" in Figure 3a and Figure 3b to pivot the first mechanism member 11 from a deactivated position to an activated position, the relative positions of the components of the actuator mechanism 4 are achieved.

[0086] Therefore, in Figure 3b , it shows the button unit 5 relative to the guide unit 7 in the unlocked position, and shows the first mechanism member 11 relative to the second mechanism member 12 in the activated position. In other words, in Figure 3b , the components of the actuator mechanism 4 are shown in the same relative positions as in Figure 2b .

[0087] In Figure 3b , after the button unit 5 has moved along the first direction d1 indicated in Figure 3a , the protrusion 17 of the button unit 5 has moved out of the recess 9. In addition, the first mechanism member 11 has pivoted about the pivot axis pA in the first pivot direction pd1.

[0088] As mentioned herein, since the first direction d1 relates to the direction of movement of the button unit 5 relative to the guide unit 7, and since each of the button unit 5 and the guide unit 7 is included in the first mechanism member 11, when the first mechanism member 11 pivots about the pivot axis pA, the first direction d1 changes. That is, as can be seen in Figure 3b , the first direction d1 is different from the first direction d1 shown in Figure 3a . However, the first direction d1 shown in Figure 3b also points in the direction towards the tool body 3 of the hand-held power tool. In addition, as described above, the first mechanism member 11 is locked against pivoting in the first pivot direction pd1 until the button unit 5 has been moved relative to the guide unit 7 to the unlocked position. Therefore, according to the illustrated embodiment, before the first mechanism member 11 can pivot from the deactivated position, the button unit 5 moves relative to the guide unit 7 from the locked position to the unlocked position along the first direction d1 according to Figure 3a .

[0089] As in Figure 3bwhich is clearly visible, and Figure 3a as shown in Figure 3a , when the button unit 5 is in the unlocked position relative to the guide unit 7, the relative position between the first abutting portion 19' and the second abutting portion 19" of the elastic member is smaller than when the button unit 5 is in the locked position relative to the guide unit 7. In other words, when the button unit 5 moves in the first direction d1 relative to the guide unit 7, an elastic element (such as Figure 2a the elastic element 19 shown in Figure 2a ) disposed between the first abutting portion 19' and the second abutting portion 19" is compressed.

[0090] In Figure 3b Figure 3b , the position of the button unit 5 relative to the guide unit 7 is shown, in which the button unit 5 is fully pressed relative to the guide unit 7 and is in the position obtained when an external force having a magnitude greater than the biasing force of the elastic element still acts on the button unit 5 in the Figure 3b first direction d1 shown in Figure 3b . Such an external force can be obtained by the pressing force of one or more fingers of a user. When the first mechanism member 11 pivots to the Figure 3b enabled position shown in Figure 3b and the external force acting on the button unit 5 is released, the button unit 5 moves a short distance in the Figure 3b second direction d2 shown in Figure 3b to a position where a part of the protrusion 17 comes into abutting contact with the surface 12' of the second mechanism member 12. Thus, when the first mechanism member 11 is in the enabled position, the button unit 5 is held in the unlocked position by the abutting contact between the protrusion 17 and the surface 12' of the second mechanism member 12.

[0091] However, the user can pivot the first mechanism member 11 in the second pivoting direction pd2 from the enabled position by applying a force to the button unit 5 in a direction substantially consistent with the arrow "pd2" in Figure 3a and Figure 3b . When the first mechanism member 11 reaches the Figure 3a disabled position shown in Figure 3a , the biasing force of the elastic element of the button unit 5 in the second direction d2 causes the button unit 5 to move from the unlocked position to the locked position.

[0092] As described above, when the button unit 5 is in the locked position, the locking mechanism 6 formed by the first mechanism member 11 and the second mechanism member 12 also allows the first mechanism member 11 to pivot in the second pivoting direction pd2 from the disabled position.

[0093] Figure 3c Shows Figure 3a the actuator mechanism 4 shown in Figure 3a , in which the first mechanism member 11 pivots (i.e., rotates) in the second pivoting direction pd2 from the disabled position about the pivot axis pA to the shutdown position.

[0094] AsFigure 3c As shown, the recess 9 of the second mechanism member 12 includes a second side wall 9". The second side wall 9" is opposite to the first side wall 9'. As Figure 3a and Figure 3b shown, when the first mechanism member 11 is in the deactivated position and the button unit 5 is in the locked position, the first side wall 9' is substantially straight and the protrusion has a substantially straight side surface facing the first side wall 9', as Figure 3a shown. Thus, when the first mechanism member 11 is in the deactivated position and the button unit 5 is in the locked position, the first mechanism member 11 is locked by the abutting contact between the straight side surface of the protrusion 17 and the first side wall 9' so that it cannot pivot about the pivot axis pA in the first pivot direction pd1.

[0095] However, as Figures 3a to 3c seen, the second side wall 9" of the recess 9 of the second mechanism member 12 is curved, and the side surface of the protrusion 17 facing the second side wall 9" has an inclination, so that when the first mechanism member 11 pivots from the Figure 3a deactivated position shown in Figure 3b towards the shutdown position shown in

[0096] In other words, according to the illustrated embodiment, when the first mechanism member 11 pivots from the Figure 3a deactivated position shown in Figure 3b towards the shutdown position shown in

[0097] As Figures 3a to 3c seen, according to the illustrated embodiment, the actuator mechanism 4 includes a spring member 29. According to the illustrated embodiment, a part of the first mechanism member 11 is configured to move when the first mechanism member 11 pivots from the Figure 3a deactivated position shown in Figure 3bWhen pivoting to the shutdown position shown, it abuts against the spring member 29. More specifically, according to the illustrated embodiment, this portion of the first mechanism member 11 is part of the guide unit 7. When the first mechanism member 11 pivots in the second pivot direction pd2, the abutment between the spring member 29 and this portion of the first mechanism member 11 biases the first mechanism member 11 towards the deactivated position.

[0098] As described above, the actuator mechanism 4 includes a switch 23 configured to be triggered when the first mechanism member 11 pivots from the deactivated position to the shutdown position in the second pivot direction pd2. According to the illustrated embodiment, the switch 23 is configured to be triggered by a portion 29’ of the spring member 29 when the first mechanism member 11 pivots to the shutdown position.

[0099] According to the illustrated embodiment, the switch 23 is configured to render the power source 10 inoperable when triggered. As described above, according to the illustrated embodiment, the power source 10 is an internal combustion engine. The internal combustion engine includes an ignition system configured to ignite the air / fuel mixture in the cylinders of the internal combustion engine. According to these embodiments, the switch 23 is configured to render the ignition system of the internal combustion engine inoperable when triggered. Thus, when the first mechanism member 11 pivots from the deactivated position to the Figure 3c shutdown position shown in the second pivot direction pd2, the power source 10 is rendered inoperable in an efficient and reliable manner.

[0100] According to other embodiments, the switch 23 may be configured to render the power source 10 inoperable in another way when triggered. For example, in an embodiment where the power source 10 includes an electric motor, the switch 23 may be configured to render the power source 10 inoperable by rendering the power electronics of the handheld power tool 1 inoperable.

[0101] According to the illustrated embodiment, each of the button unit 5 and the guide unit 7 of the first mechanism member 11 is made of a one-piece polymer material. According to additional embodiments, one or both of the button unit 5 and the guide unit 7 may be made of another type of material (such as metal) and / or may be provided by an assembly including two or more separate components. Additionally, according to the illustrated embodiment, the second mechanism member 12 is made of a polymeric material. However, according to other embodiments, the second mechanism member 12 may be formed of another type of material such as metal.

[0102] If not otherwise indicated, the following is referred to simultaneously Figures 1 to 3c as follows. According to the illustrated embodiment, the first direction d1 is perpendicular to the pivot axis pA. According to other embodiments, the first direction d1 may be substantially perpendicular to the pivot axis pA.

[0103] In Figure 3aIn it, the button portion 5' of the button unit 5 is indicated. The button portion 5' of the button unit 5 faces the user. According to the illustrated embodiment, the actuator mechanism 4 is arranged such that when the button unit 5 moves in the first direction d1, the button portion 5' of the button unit 5 moves in a direction toward the pivot axis pA, and such that when the button unit 5 moves in the second direction d2, the button portion 5' of the button unit 5 moves in a direction away from the pivot axis pA.

[0104] Furthermore, according to the illustrated embodiment, the pivot axis pA of the first mechanism member 11 is parallel to the bottom side 42 of the hand-held power tool 1. In other words, when the hand-held power tool 1 is positioned on a flat horizontal support surface Hs in the generally upright parked position as Figure 1 shown, the pivot axis pA of the first mechanism member 11 is parallel to the flat horizontal support surface Hs. According to other embodiments, the pivot axis pA of the first mechanism member 11 may be substantially parallel to the bottom side 42 of the hand-held power tool 1.

[0105] Furthermore, according to the illustrated embodiment, the actuator mechanism 4 is configured such that when the first mechanism member 11 pivots in the first pivot direction pd1 from the deactivated position and the hand-held power tool 1 is positioned on a flat horizontal support surface Hs in the generally upright parked position, the button portion 5' of the button unit 5 obtains a component of the motion vector pointing away from the flat horizontal support surface Hs. Similarly, according to the illustrated embodiment, the actuator mechanism 4 is configured such that when the first mechanism member 11 pivots in the second pivot direction pd2 from the deactivated position and the hand-held power tool 1 is positioned on a flat horizontal support surface Hs in the generally upright parked position, the button portion 5' of the button unit 5 obtains a component of the motion vector pointing toward the flat horizontal support surface Hs.

[0106] Therefore, according to the illustrated embodiment, as when the hand-held power tool 1 is positioned on a flat horizontal support surface Hs in the generally upright parked position (as Figure 1 shown), as seen from the user's perspective, the first pivot direction pd1 corresponds to the upward pivoting movement direction of the button portion 5' of the button unit 5, while the second pivot direction pd2 corresponds to the downward pivoting movement direction of the button portion 5' of the button unit 5.

[0107] As Figure 1 shown, the hand-held power tool 1 includes a set of indicating portions. This set of indicating portions includes symbols and the text "START" provided on the button portion of the button unit 5. Furthermore, this set of indicating portions includes more detailed instructions on the tool body 3 of the hand-held power tool 1.

[0108] The handheld power tool 1 includes a motor starter handle 39. The motor starter handle 39 is connected via a cable to the crankshaft of the internal combustion engine. During the starting process of the power source 10 of the handheld power tool 1, the user can press the button portion 5' of the button unit 5 in a first direction d1 pointing to the tool body 3 of the handheld power tool 1, and can pivot the first mechanism member 11 to the enabled position by pivoting the button portion 5' of the button unit 5 in the upward direction according to the above. Thus, the choke valve of the internal combustion engine will be closed. Then, the user can pull the motor starter handle 39 to start the internal combustion engine.

[0109] The handheld power tool 1 according to the illustrated embodiment further includes a safety switch actuator 37 disposed on the gripping portion h1' of the first handle h1. The safety switch actuator 37 must be actuated before allowing the power output of the internal combustion engine to be adjusted via the throttle actuator 35. The safety switch actuator 37 can mechanically prevent the movement of the throttle actuator 35 when in the unactuated position.

[0110] Thus, after starting the internal combustion engine, the user can grip each of the gripping portions h1', h2' of the first handle and the second handle to actuate the safety switch actuator 37, and can control the power output of the internal combustion engine 10 using the throttle actuator 38.

[0111] Then, when the user wants to shut down the internal combustion engine, the user can simply move the first mechanism member 11 to the shutdown position by applying a force to the button portion 5' of the button unit 5 in the downward direction according to the above. As Figure 1 shown, this set of indication portions includes a symbol and the text "Shutdown" provided on the tool body 3 and to the left of the button unit 5 to indicate to the user that this is a feasible process.

[0112] As used herein, the expression "substantially parallel to" can cover an angle between the objects mentioned of less than 10 degrees or less than 7 degrees.

[0113] As used herein, the expression "substantially perpendicular to" can cover an angle between the objects or vectors mentioned in the range of 80 degrees - 100 degrees or in the range of 83 degrees - 97 degrees.

[0114] As used herein, the expression "substantially coincident" can cover an angle between the objects mentioned of less than 10 degrees or less than 7 degrees.

[0115] As used herein, the expression "substantially straight" can cover a shape deviation of the object mentioned from a flat plane of less than 10%.

[0116] As used herein, the expression "adjacent to" can include the objects mentioned being spaced 0.5 - 7 centimeters apart from each other.

[0117] It should be understood that the foregoing is illustrative of various exemplary embodiments, and the present invention is defined only by the appended independent claims. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the exemplary embodiments may be modified without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims, and different features of the exemplary embodiments may be combined to produce embodiments other than those described herein.

[0118] As used herein, the term "comprising" or "including" is open-ended and includes one or more of the recited features, elements, steps, components or functions, but does not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, elements, steps, components, functions or groups thereof.

Claims

1. A hand-held power tool (1), comprising: - A tool body (3); - An actuator mechanism (4) arranged on the tool body (3); And - A power source (10) for powering a tool (30) of the hand-held power tool (1), Wherein, the actuator mechanism (4) comprises: - A first mechanism member (11), including a button unit (5) and a guiding unit (7); and - A second mechanism member (12) attached to the tool body (3), Wherein, the first mechanism member (11) is attached to the second mechanism member (12) in a manner that it can pivot about a pivot axis (pA) between a deactivated position and an activated position, and the first mechanism member is operatively connected to a part (10') of the power source (10), such that when the first mechanism member (11) is positioned at the deactivated position, the power source (10) is in at least a partially deactivated state, and such that when the first mechanism member (11) is positioned at the activated position, the power source (10) is in an activated state, Wherein, the first mechanism member and the second mechanism member (11, 12) form a locking mechanism (6), the locking mechanism being configured to lock the first mechanism member (11) when the button unit (5) is in a locked position so that the first mechanism member cannot pivot about the pivot axis (pA) in a first pivot direction (pd1) from the deactivated position, and being configured to allow the first mechanism member (11) to pivot from the deactivated position to the activated position in the first pivot direction (pd1) when the button unit (5) is in an unlocked position, and Wherein, the button unit (5) is arranged to be slidable relative to the guiding unit (7) in a first direction (d1) pointing towards the tool body (3) from the locked position towards the unlocked position.

2. The hand-held power tool (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The first direction (d1) is substantially perpendicular to the pivot axis (pA).

3. The hand-held power tool (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The locking mechanism (6) is formed by a protrusion (17) arranged on the button unit (5) and a recess (9) arranged on the second mechanism member (12).

4. The hand-held power tool (1) according to claim 3, wherein, The protrusion (17) is configured to protrude into the recess (9) when the button unit (5) is in the locked position, so as to lock the first mechanism member (11) by abutting contact between the protrusion (17) and a first side wall (9') of the recess (9) such that the first mechanism member cannot pivot about the pivot axis (pA) in the first pivot direction (pd1), and the protrusion is configured to move out of the recess (9) when the button unit (5) moves to the unlocked position to allow the first mechanism member (11) to pivot about the pivot axis (pA) in the first pivot direction (pd1).

5. The hand-held power tool (1) according to claim 3 or 4, wherein, The button unit (5) is configured to be held in the unlocked position by abutting contact between the protrusion (17) and a surface (12') of the second mechanism member (12) when the first mechanism member (11) is in the activated position.

6. The hand-held power tool (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The actuator mechanism (4) includes an elastic element (19) configured to bias the button unit (5) in a second direction (d2) opposite to the first direction (d1).

7. The hand-held power tool (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The power source (10) is an internal combustion engine including a choke valve, and wherein the portion (10') of the power source (10) is a choke valve actuator (22) connected to the choke valve of the internal combustion engine.

8. The hand-held power tool (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, When the button unit (5) is in the locked position, the locking mechanism (6) allows the first mechanism member (11) to pivot from the deactivated position in a second pivot direction (pd2) opposite to the first pivot direction (pd1).

9. The hand-held power tool (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The actuator mechanism (4) includes a switch (23) configured to be triggered when the first mechanism member (11) pivots from the deactivated position to the shutdown position in a second pivot direction (pd2) opposite to the first pivot direction (pd1).

10. The hand-held power tool (1) according to claim 9, wherein, The switch (23) is configured to disable the power source (10) when triggered.

11. The hand-held power tool (1) according to claim 9 or 10, wherein, The power source (10) is an internal combustion engine including an ignition system, and wherein the switch (23) is configured to disable the ignition system of the internal combustion engine when triggered.

12. A hand-held power tool (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The handheld power tool (1) is a chain saw or a power cutter.

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