Electric lubricant supply device and method for discharging lubricant from electric lubricant supply device

Abstract

This invention provides an electric lubricant supply device and a method for discharging lubricant from the electric lubricant supply device. One embodiment involves an electric lubricant supply device comprising a motor, a pump, a drive circuit, and a control circuit. The pump (i) is driven by the motor and (ii) discharges lubricant. The drive circuit drives the motor. The control circuit rotates the motor via the drive circuit. The control circuit performs predetermined processing based on (i) the motor being driven and (ii) the actual amount of motor operation meeting predetermined requirements. The actual amount of operation represents the actual rotational speed of the motor, or the magnitude of the variation in the actual rotational speed. The predetermined requirement is that gas has been mixed into the pump.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an electric lubricant supply device. Background Technology

[0002] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2024-134818 discloses a grease discharge device equipped with a pump. According to this grease discharge device, the pump receives grease from a housing and discharges the grease. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Depending on the grease discharge device, air may get into the grease inside the pump. When air gets into the pump, proper grease discharge from the pump may be hindered. For example, the amount of grease discharged may be temporarily reduced, or the grease may not be discharged at all.

[0004] One aspect of the present invention aims to enable proper detection of gas mixing into the pump.

[0005] One aspect of the present invention provides an electric lubricant supply device comprising a motor, a pump, a drive circuit, and a control circuit.

[0006] The pump is driven by the motor. The pump discharges lubricant. The drive circuit drives the motor.

[0007] The control circuit causes the motor to rotate via the drive circuit.

[0008] The control circuit performs specified processing based on (i) the motor being driven and (ii) the actual amount of motor movement meeting specified requirements. The actual amount of movement represents the actual rotational speed of the motor, or the magnitude of the variation in the actual rotational speed. The specified requirements are conditions indicating that gas has been mixed into the pump. The specified requirements may also be conditions indicating that gas may have been mixed into the pump. That is, the actual amount of movement meeting the specified requirements may also mean that gas has been mixed into (or may have been mixed into) the pump.

[0009] The electric lubricant supply device configured in this way can properly detect the situation where the gas is mixed into the pump.

[0010] Another aspect of the present invention provides a method for discharging lubricant from an electric lubricant supply device, the method comprising the following steps:

[0011] The electric lubricant supply pump, configured to discharge the lubricant, is driven by the motor of the electric lubricant supply; and

[0012] During the driving process of the motor, a specified process is performed in the electric lubricant supply device based on the fact that the actual amount of motor action has met the specified requirements. The actual amount of motor action represents the actual rotational speed of the motor or the magnitude of the change in the actual rotational speed. The specified requirements are the requirements indicating that gas has been mixed into the pump.

[0013] According to this method, the situation where the gas mixes into the pump can be properly detected in the electric lubricant supply device. Attached Figure Description

[0014] Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0015] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the electric lubricant supply device according to the first embodiment.

[0016] Figure 2 This is a central longitudinal sectional view of an electric lubricant supply unit.

[0017] Figure 3 This is an explanatory diagram illustrating how a plunger moves up and down via the rotation of a motor.

[0018] Figure 4 This is a top view of the control panel in the electric lubricant supply unit.

[0019] Figure 5 This is a circuit diagram showing the electrical configuration of an electric lubricant supply unit.

[0020] Figure 6 This is a functional block diagram of the control circuit in an electric lubricant supply unit.

[0021] Figure 7 This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the operation of the motor when the pump is in normal condition and the motor is rotating at low to medium speed.

[0022] Figure 8 This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the operation of a motor when the pump is in normal condition and the motor is rotating at high speed.

[0023] Figure 9 This is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of motor operation when the pump generates gas entrainment and the motor rotates at high speed.

[0024] Figure 10 This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of setting the first threshold.

[0025] Figure 11 This is the flowchart for the main processing.

[0026] Figure 12 This is a flowchart of the process in progress.

[0027] Figure 13 It is a flowchart of the processing in the action.

[0028] Figure 14 This is a flowchart of the gas entrainment detection process in the first embodiment.

[0029] Figure 15 This is a flowchart of continuous decision-making and processing.

[0030] Figure 16 This is a flowchart of the gas entrainment detection process in the second embodiment.

[0031] Figure 17 This is a flowchart of the gas entrainment detection process in the third embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0032] 1. Overview of Implementation Methods

[0033] In this invention, the terms "first," "second," etc., are merely intended to distinguish elements from each other, and are not intended to limit the order or number of elements. Therefore, the first element can be called the second element, and similarly, the second element can be called the first element. In addition, the first element can be present without the second element, and similarly, the second element can be present without the first element.

[0034] One embodiment may provide an electric lubricant supply having at least one of the following features.

[0035] Feature 1: Motor.

[0036] Feature 2: Pump.

[0037] Feature 3: The pump is configured to be driven by the motor.

[0038] Feature 4: The pump is configured to discharge lubricant.

[0039] Feature 5: Drive circuit.

[0040] Feature 6: The drive circuit is configured to drive the motor.

[0041] Feature 7: Control circuit.

[0042] Feature 8: The control circuit is configured to rotate the motor by means of the drive circuit. The control circuit controls the drive circuit, thereby causing the motor to rotate.

[0043] Feature 9: The control circuit is configured to perform specified processing based on (i) the motor being driven and (ii) the actual amount of motor motion meeting specified requirements.

[0044] Feature 10: The actual motion quantity represents the actual rotational speed of the motor, or the magnitude of the variation in the actual rotational speed. The actual rotational speed is the actual rotational speed. The actual rotational speed can be defined as a scalar without considering the direction of rotation.

[0045] Feature 11: The specified requirement is a condition (or indicator) indicating that gas (or bubbles) has been mixed into the pump. In other words, the specified requirement is a requirement for the actual amount of action corresponding to the state that the gas has been mixed into the pump. The specified requirement can be satisfied in a way that corresponds to the gas being mixed into the pump. Alternatively, the specified requirement can be satisfied in a way that corresponds to a specified volume or more of gas being mixed into the pump.

[0046] An electric lubricant supply device having at least features 1 to 11 is capable of properly detecting the situation where the gas is mixed into the pump.

[0047] The motor is in the form of an electric motor. The motor may also be configured to generate a driving force (or rotational driving force, or driving torque, or rotational force, or torque). The pump may also be configured to (i) directly or indirectly receive the driving force from the motor, or (ii) be driven by the driving force. Examples of the motor include: DC motors, AC motors, and stepper motors. Examples of DC motors include: brushless motors (or brushless DC motors), and brushed DC motors.

[0048] Examples of the lubricant include liquid lubricants and semi-solid lubricants. Examples of liquid lubricants include lubricating oil. Examples of semi-solid lubricants include lubricating grease. Specifically, examples of electric lubricant dispensers include electric grease guns.

[0049] The pump can be configured to: (i) receive the lubricant and (ii) discharge the received lubricant. The lubricant can flow into (i.e. be received) the pump by receiving pressure against the pump from outside the pump. Alternatively, the pump can be configured to generate a negative pressure within the pump, through which the lubricant is received (i.e. drawn in).

[0050] The pump can include all types of pumps. Examples of the pump include positive displacement pumps. Examples of positive displacement pumps include reciprocating pumps and rotary pumps. Examples of reciprocating pumps include plunger pumps configured as plungers and diaphragm pumps configured as diaphragms. Examples of the pump may also include non-positive displacement pumps.

[0051] The drive circuit may also include multiple switching elements electrically connected to the motor. Examples of the drive circuit include a full-bridge circuit and a half-bridge circuit.

[0052] The full-bridge circuit can also be electrically connected to the motor. In this case, the motor can also be a three-phase motor (e.g., the brushless motor). The motor can also (i) have three terminals, and (ii) be configured to receive power from the full-bridge circuit (i.e., from the drive circuit) via the three terminals, thereby rotating.

[0053] The full-bridge circuit may also have six switching elements. Examples of the six switching elements include semiconductor switches and mechanical relays. Examples of semiconductor switches include field-effect transistors (FETs), bipolar transistors, insulated-gate bipolar transistors (IGBTs), thyristors, and solid-state relays (SSRs).

[0054] The six switching elements may also include: three high-side switches and three low-side switches. The three high-side switches may be electrically connected to the positive terminal of a power source (e.g., a DC power source) and the three terminals of the motor. The three low-side switches may also be electrically connected to the negative terminal of the power source and the three terminals of the motor. The three high-side switches may also (i) be respectively configured on three positive-side energizing paths, or (ii) be configured to respectively connect or disconnect the three positive-side energizing paths. The three positive-side energizing paths respectively connect the three terminals of the motor to the positive terminal of the power source. The three low-side switches may also (i) be respectively configured on three negative-side energizing paths, or (ii) be configured to respectively connect or disconnect the three negative-side energizing paths. The three negative-side energizing paths respectively connect the three terminals of the motor to the negative terminal of the power source.

[0055] The specified requirement may also indicate that the gas may have been mixed into the pump. That is, the actual amount of action satisfying the specified requirement may also correspond to: the gas has been mixed into the pump, or the gas may have been mixed into the pump.

[0056] The gas being mixed into the pump may include: (i) the gas being mixed into the lubricant within the pump, and / or (ii) the gas being mixed into a receiving portion (e.g., a chamber described later) within the pump that contains the lubricant.

[0057] The prescribed treatment can also be any treatment corresponding to the presence of gas in the pump. The prescribed treatment can also be a treatment that should be performed or is desired to be performed when gas has been present in the pump. When gas has been present in the pump, the lubricant may not be properly discharged. Specifically, it is possible that the amount of lubricant discharged is reduced or that the lubricant is not discharged at all. Accordingly, the prescribed treatment can also be a treatment corresponding to the state where the lubricant may not be properly discharged, i.e., a treatment that should be performed or is desired to be performed in that state. Examples of such prescribed treatments will be described later.

[0058] In one embodiment, the control circuit may also be integrated into a single electronic unit, a single electronic device, or a single circuit board.

[0059] In one embodiment, the control circuit may also be a combination of two or more electronic circuits, two or more electronic units, or two or more electronic devices individually disposed on or within the electric lubricant supply.

[0060] In one embodiment, the control circuit may also include: a microcomputer (or microcontroller, or microprocessor), wiring logic, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), an application-specific general-purpose product (ASSP), a programmable logic device (PLD) (e.g., a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), etc.), discrete electronic components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0061] In one embodiment, the electric lubricant dispenser may also be handheld (in other words, portable). That is, the electric lubricant dispenser may also have a handle configured to be held by a user. The electric lubricant dispenser can also be used while the user holds the handle.

[0062] In addition to having at least one of features 1 to 11, or alternatively, a certain embodiment may also have at least one of the following features.

[0063] Feature 12: The actual motion quantity includes the amplitude of the actual rotational speed.

[0064] Feature 13: The specified requirement includes: the maximum value of the amplitude during the specified driving period is below the first threshold.

[0065] An electric lubricant supply device having at least features 1 to 13 is capable of detecting with high precision the situation where the gas is mixed into the pump.

[0066] Feature 13 can also be described as follows: the specified requirement is satisfied when the maximum value of the amplitude during the specified driving period is below the first threshold. The first threshold may also be less than the range of the amplitude generated under normal conditions (e.g., its minimum value). The first threshold may also be greater than the range of the amplitude generated under abnormal conditions (e.g., its maximum value). The normal state corresponds to a state where no gas is mixed into the pump. The abnormal state corresponds to a state where gas has been mixed into the pump. The amplitude of the actual rotational speed can be defined as the difference between the maximum and minimum values ​​of the actual rotational speed as a time series. The maximum value of the amplitude is the difference between the maximum and minimum values ​​of the actual rotational speed during the specified driving period.

[0067] The specified drive period is a specified period during which the motor is driven. When the pump is configured to repeatedly perform a specified action, the specified drive period may also include at least the period during which the specified action is performed.

[0068] In addition to having at least one of features 1 to 13, a certain embodiment may also have at least one of the following features, or alternatively.

[0069] Feature 14: The actual motion quantity includes the absolute value of the derivative of the actual rotational speed.

[0070] Feature 15: The specified requirement includes: the maximum value of the absolute value during the specified driving period is below the second threshold.

[0071] An electric lubricant supply device having at least features 1 to 11, 14, and 15 is capable of detecting with high precision the situation where the gas is mixed into the pump.

[0072] Feature 15 can also be described as follows: the specified requirement is satisfied corresponding to the maximum value of the absolute value during the specified driving period being below the second threshold. The specified requirement can also be described as follows: during the specified driving period, the absolute value of the derivative of the actual rotational speed does not exceed the second threshold.

[0073] The second threshold may be smaller than the range of absolute values ​​generated under the normal state (e.g., its minimum value). The second threshold may also be larger than the range of absolute values ​​generated under the abnormal state (e.g., its maximum value).

[0074] The differential value of the actual rotational speed can also be calculated arbitrarily. For example, the differential value can be calculated based on the time derivative. That is, the change in the actual rotational speed per specified unit time interval can also be calculated as the differential value. Alternatively, for example, the differential value can be calculated based on the rotation angle derivative. That is, the change in the actual rotational speed during a specified unit rotation angle rotation of the motor can also be calculated as the differential value.

[0075] In addition to having at least one of features 1 to 15, or alternatively, a certain embodiment may also have at least one of the following features.

[0076] Feature 16: The actual motion amount includes the actual rotation speed.

[0077] Feature 17: The specified requirement includes: the minimum value of the actual rotational speed during the specified driving period is above the third threshold.

[0078] An electric lubricant supply device having at least features 1 to 11, 16, and 17 is capable of detecting with high precision the situation where the gas is mixed into the pump.

[0079] Feature 17 can also be described as follows: the specified requirement is satisfied corresponding to the minimum value of the actual rotational speed during the specified driving period being greater than or equal to the third threshold. The specified requirement can also be described as follows: during the specified driving period, the actual rotational speed is not lower than the third threshold. The third threshold can also be greater than the range of actual rotational speeds generated under normal conditions (e.g., its maximum value). The third threshold can also be less than the range of actual rotational speeds generated under abnormal conditions (e.g., its minimum value).

[0080] In addition to having at least one of features 1 to 17, or alternatively, a certain embodiment may also have the following features.

[0081] Feature 18: The control circuit is configured to change the first threshold according to the operating state of the electric lubricant supply.

[0082] An electric lubricant supply device having at least features 1 to 13, 18 can detect the gas mixing into the pump with higher precision.

[0083] The action state can include all states that affect the actual rotational speed. In other words, the action state can include all states that cause the actual rotational speed to change according to the change of the action state.

[0084] In addition to having at least one of features 1 to 18, or alternatively, a certain embodiment may also have the following features.

[0085] Feature 19: The control circuit is configured to change the second threshold according to the operating state of the electric lubricant supply.

[0086] An electric lubricant supply device having at least features 1 to 11, 14, 15, and 19 can detect the mixing of gas into the pump with higher precision.

[0087] In addition to having at least one of features 1 to 19, or alternatively, a certain embodiment may also have the following features.

[0088] Feature 20: The control circuit is configured to change the third threshold according to the operating state of the electric lubricant supply.

[0089] An electric lubricant supply device having at least features 1 to 11, 16, 17, and 20 can detect the mixing of gas into the pump with higher precision.

[0090] In addition to having at least one of features 1 to 20, or alternatively, a certain embodiment may also have at least one of the following features.

[0091] Feature 21: The control circuit is configured to set a target rotational speed. The target rotational speed is a target value for the rotational speed of the motor.

[0092] Feature 22: The control circuit is configured to control the drive circuit in such a way that the actual rotation speed matches the target rotation speed (i.e., the set target rotation speed).

[0093] Feature 23: The action state includes the target rotation speed.

[0094] An electric lubricant supply device having at least features 1 to 13, 18, 21 to 23, an electric lubricant supply device having at least features 1 to 11, 14, 15, 19, 21 to 23, and an electric lubricant supply device having at least features 1 to 11, 16, 17, 20 to 23 can detect the situation where the gas is mixed into the pump with higher precision.

[0095] In addition to having at least one of features 1 to 23, or alternatively, a certain embodiment may also have the following features.

[0096] Feature 24: The control circuit is configured to set the third threshold to a value less than the target rotation speed.

[0097] An electric lubricant supply with at least features 1 to 11, 16, 17, and 20 to 24 can detect the gas mixing into the pump with higher precision.

[0098] In addition to having at least one of features 1 to 24, or alternatively, a certain embodiment may also have at least one of the following features.

[0099] Feature 25: The control circuit is configured to control the drive circuit by outputting a pulse width modulation signal to the drive circuit. The pulse width modulation signal has a duty cycle.

[0100] Feature 26: The drive circuit is configured to: (i) receive the pulse width modulation signal, and (ii) drive the motor according to the duty cycle of the received pulse width modulation signal.

[0101] Feature 27: The action state includes the duty cycle.

[0102] An electric lubricant supply device having at least features 1 to 13, 18, 25 to 27, an electric lubricant supply device having at least features 1 to 11, 14, 15, 19, 25 to 27, and an electric lubricant supply device having at least features 1 to 11, 16, 17, 20, 25 to 27 can detect the situation where the gas is mixed into the pump with higher precision.

[0103] The drive circuit can also be configured to supply power to the motor corresponding to the duty cycle to drive the motor. Specifically, the drive circuit can also be configured such that a larger duty cycle results in a larger power supply. Alternatively, the duty cycle can increase as the target rotation speed increases.

[0104] When the drive circuit includes the plurality of switching elements, at least one of the plurality of switching elements may be configured to: (i) receive the pulse width modulation signal, and (ii) turn on or off according to the duty cycle of the pulse width modulation signal (thereby turning on or off the corresponding energizing path). That is, the larger the duty cycle, the longer the period during which the circuit is turned on (i.e., the corresponding energizing path is turned on), and consequently the greater the power supplied to the motor (and thus the output of the motor and / or the actual rotational speed).

[0105] In addition to having at least one of features 1 to 27, or alternatively, a certain embodiment may also have the following features.

[0106] Feature 28: The action state includes the actual rotation speed.

[0107] An electric lubricant supply device having at least features 1 to 13, 18, and 28, an electric lubricant supply device having at least features 1 to 11, 14, 15, 19, and 28, and an electric lubricant supply device having at least features 1 to 11, 16, 17, 20, and 28 can detect the situation where the gas is mixed into the pump with higher precision.

[0108] The control circuit can also arbitrarily set thresholds for the target object (i.e., the first threshold, the second threshold, and / or the third threshold) based on the action state. The control circuit can set the thresholds according to a pre-prepared function that uses the action state as a variable. Alternatively, the control circuit can refer to a pre-prepared chart or a similar database to set the thresholds. In the chart, a correspondence is established between the action state and the threshold.

[0109] The control circuit may also increase the first threshold and / or the second threshold as the target rotation speed increases. In this case, the first threshold and / or the second threshold may also decrease as the target rotation speed increases in the region where the target rotation speed is above a predetermined value.

[0110] Similarly, the control circuit may also increase the first threshold and / or the second threshold as the duty cycle increases. In this case, the first threshold and / or the second threshold may also decrease as the duty cycle increases in the region where the duty cycle is above a predetermined value.

[0111] The control circuit can set the third threshold in such a way that the difference between the target rotation speed and the third threshold decreases as the target rotation speed increases. Similarly, the control circuit can also set the third threshold in such a way that the difference between the target rotation speed corresponding to the duty cycle and the third threshold decreases as the duty cycle increases.

[0112] In addition to having at least one of features 1 to 28, or alternatively, a certain embodiment may also have at least one of the following features.

[0113] Feature 29: The control circuit is configured to acquire the temperature of the electric lubricant supply.

[0114] Feature 30: The action state includes the temperature.

[0115] An electric lubricant supply device having at least features 1 to 13, 18, 29, and 30, an electric lubricant supply device having at least features 1 to 11, 14, 15, 19, 29, and 30, and an electric lubricant supply device having at least features 1 to 11, 16, 17, 20, 29, and 30 can detect the situation where the gas is mixed into the pump with higher precision.

[0116] The control circuit can also acquire the temperature of the electric lubricant supply at any point (anywhere). The temperature can be either the temperature of the lubricant or a temperature that can be considered as the temperature of the lubricant (or its variation).

[0117] In one embodiment, the electric lubricant supply may also include a temperature detector configured and arranged to directly or indirectly detect the temperature of the lubricant. The control circuit may also change the first threshold, the second threshold, and / or the third threshold based on the temperature detected by the temperature detector. The temperature detector may also be in direct contact with the lubricant. In this case, the temperature detector can directly detect the temperature of the lubricant. Alternatively, the temperature detector may be detached from the lubricant. The temperature detector may also be any form capable of detecting the temperature. Examples of the temperature detector include positive temperature coefficient (PTC) thermistors, negative temperature coefficient (NTC) thermistors, and critical temperature resistor (CTR) thermistors.

[0118] In a certain embodiment that has the above-described feature 29, the embodiment may also have at least one of the following features.

[0119] Feature 31: The control circuit is configured to decrease the first threshold as the acquired temperature increases.

[0120] Feature 32: The control circuit is configured to reduce the second threshold as the acquired temperature increases.

[0121] Feature 33: The control circuit is configured to increase the third threshold as the acquired temperature increases.

[0122] An electric lubricant supply device having at least features 1 to 13, 18, 29 to 31, an electric lubricant supply device having at least features 1 to 11, 14, 15, 19, 29, 30, 32, and an electric lubricant supply device having at least features 1 to 11, 16, 17, 20, 29, 30, 33 can detect the mixing of gas into the pump with higher precision.

[0123] The operating state may also include physical quantities other than the target rotational speed, the duty cycle, the actual rotational speed, and the temperature. Examples of the operating state include physical quantities representing the magnitude of the voltage applied to the motor by the drive circuit, or indirectly representing the magnitude of its voltage. When the drive circuit is configured to apply a power supply (e.g., a battery) voltage to the motor, the operating state may include the voltage of the battery. In this case, when the voltage of the battery decreases, the voltage applied to the motor also decreases. Thus, the first threshold can be set in such a way that the first threshold decreases as the voltage of the battery decreases. The same applies to the second and third thresholds. One embodiment may include a voltage detector configured to detect the voltage of the battery. The voltage detector may be configured to: (i) receive the voltage of the battery, and (ii) output a voltage detection signal corresponding to the magnitude of its voltage to the control circuit. The control circuit may also (i) obtain the magnitude of the voltage of the battery based on the voltage detection signal from the voltage detector, and (ii) set the first threshold (or the second threshold or the third threshold) based on the obtained magnitude.

[0124] In addition to having at least one of features 1 to 33, a certain embodiment may also have at least one of the following features.

[0125] Feature 34: Notification Department.

[0126] Feature 35: The notification unit is configured to notify information indicating that the gas has been mixed into the pump.

[0127] Feature 36: The specified processing includes: notifying the information by means of the notification unit.

[0128] According to an electric lubricant dispenser having at least features 1 to 11 and 34 to 36, the user of the electric lubricant dispenser can easily know whether the gas has mixed in (or may have mixed in) the pump. The notification unit can also use any method to notify the information. For example, the notification unit can be configured to display the information in a visually confirmable manner. For example, the notification unit can also be configured to output the information via sound or voice.

[0129] In addition to having at least one of features 1 to 36, a certain embodiment may also have at least one of the following features.

[0130] Feature 37: The pump is configured to repeatedly perform a prescribed discharge action for discharging the lubricant.

[0131] Feature 38: The control circuit is configured to accumulate the actual number of discharges each time the pump performs the predetermined discharge action during the driving process of the motor (in other words, to perform an addition operation in an additive manner). The actual number of discharges corresponds to the number of times the predetermined discharge action has been performed.

[0132] Feature 39: The control circuit is configured to stop the motor based on the fact that the actual number of discharges has reached the target number of discharges.

[0133] Feature 40: The specified processing includes: temporarily stopping the accumulation of the actual number of discharges.

[0134] An electric lubricant supply device having at least features 1 to 11 and 37 to 40 can suppress or prevent the actual amount of lubricant discharged up to the time the motor stops from being less than a predetermined amount corresponding to the target number of discharges. The predetermined discharge action may include receiving the lubricant and discharging the received lubricant.

[0135] In addition to having at least one of features 1 to 40, or alternatively, a certain embodiment may also have the following features.

[0136] Feature 41: The control circuit is configured such that after temporarily stopping the accumulation of the actual number of discharges, it restarts the accumulation of the actual number of discharges based on the fact that the actual amount of action no longer meets the specified requirements.

[0137] An electric lubricant supply having at least features 1 to 11 and 37 to 41 can, during the driving process of the motor, precisely discharge an amount of lubricant corresponding to the target number of discharges, even if the gas is temporarily mixed into the pump.

[0138] In addition to having at least one of features 1 to 41, a certain embodiment may also have at least one of the following features, or alternatively.

[0139] Feature 42: The pump includes a chamber configured to contain the lubricant. The chamber may be configured to contain the lubricant received by the pump.

[0140] Feature 43: The pump has an outlet communicating with the chamber.

[0141] Feature 44: The pump has a plunger.

[0142] Feature 45: The plunger is located within the chamber. The plunger is configured to: (i) reciprocate within the chamber based on the rotational force of the motor, and (ii) thereby discharge the lubricant within the chamber from the outlet. The plunger may also reciprocate via the motor (or via the rotational force of the motor).

[0143] With an electric lubricant supply having at least features 1 to 11 and 42 to 45, it is possible to properly detect the situation where the gas is mixed into the plunger reciprocating pump.

[0144] The aforementioned "the gas has been mixed into the pump" may include: the gas has been mixed into the chamber. The electric lubricant supply may include: a converter that converts rotary motion into linear motion. The converter (i) is directly or indirectly connected to the motor and the reciprocating component, (ii) receives rotation from the motor, and (iii) converts the rotation into reciprocating motion of the reciprocating component. The converter is one of a plurality of components constituting the pump.

[0145] In addition to having at least one of features 1 to 45, or alternatively, a certain embodiment may also have the following features.

[0146] Feature 46: The specified driving period includes the period during which the plunger reciprocates once within the chamber.

[0147] According to the electric lubricant supply having at least features 1 to 13 and 42 to 46, it is possible to properly and effectively detect the situation where the gas mixes into the plunger reciprocating type pump.

[0148] The aforementioned gas being mixed into the pump may include: (i) the gas being mixed into the chamber, and / or (ii) the gas being mixed into the discharge material that is about to be discharged through the plunger in the chamber.

[0149] In addition to having at least one of features 1 to 46, or alternatively, a certain embodiment may also have the following features.

[0150] Feature 47: The specified discharge action includes: the plunger reciprocating once in the chamber.

[0151] An electric lubricant supply device having at least features 1 to 11, 37 to 40, 42 to 45, and 47 is capable of discharging an amount of lubricant corresponding to the target number of discharges.

[0152] In addition to having at least one of features 1 to 47, or alternatively, a certain embodiment may also have the following features.

[0153] Feature 48: The control circuit is configured to stop the motor when the actual amount of motion meets the specified requirements for a specified time during the driving process of the motor.

[0154] According to an electric lubricant supply having at least features 1 to 11, 48, in the event of a continuous state of gas mixing (or potential mixing), the user can take appropriate countermeasures.

[0155] In one embodiment, the motor can be stopped without waiting for the specified time to elapse, corresponding to the fulfillment of the specified requirements.

[0156] In addition to having at least one of features 1 to 48, or alternatively, a certain embodiment may also have the following features.

[0157] Feature 49: The control circuit is configured to detect, in accordance with the specified conditions being met during the driving of the motor, the situation where the gas has been mixed into the pump (or possibly so), and / or the situation where the pump wants to discharge the gas (or possibly so).

[0158] Based on an electric lubricant supply device having at least features 1 to 11, 49, various countermeasures can be taken based on the detection of the mixing of the gas.

[0159] In addition to having at least one of features 1 to 49, or alternatively, a certain embodiment may also have the following features.

[0160] Feature 50: The lubricant is in a semi-solid form.

[0161] An electric lubricant supply device having at least features 1 to 11, 50 is capable of properly detecting when the gas is mixed into the lubricant in a semi-solid form.

[0162] In addition to having at least one of features 1 to 50, or alternatively, a certain embodiment may also have the following features.

[0163] Feature 51: The lubricant comprises grease.

[0164] An electric lubricant supply device having at least features 1 to 11, 51 is capable of properly detecting when the gas is mixed into the grease.

[0165] One embodiment may provide a method for discharging lubricant from an electric lubricant supply having at least one of the following features.

[0166] Feature 52: The pump of the electric lubricant supply is driven by the motor of the electric lubricant supply, the pump being configured to discharge the lubricant.

[0167] Feature 53: During the driving process of the motor, a specified process is performed in the electric lubricant supply device based on the fact that the actual amount of motion of the motor has met the specified requirements.

[0168] Feature 54: The actual amount of motion represents the actual rotational speed of the motor, or the magnitude of the change in the actual rotational speed.

[0169] Feature 55: The specified requirement is a requirement indicating that gas has been mixed into the pump.

[0170] According to a method having at least features 52 to 55, it is possible to properly detect the situation where the gas is mixed into the pump.

[0171] In one embodiment, features 1 to 55 described above can also be combined in any combination.

[0172] In one embodiment, any one of the features 1 to 55 described above may be excluded.

[0173] 2. Specific exemplary implementation methods

[0174] The following exemplary embodiments provide a Figure 1 The electric lubricant supply device 1 shown is configured to discharge lubricant. Specifically, the electric lubricant supply device 1 of this embodiment is configured as an electric grease gun that discharges grease.

[0175] For ease of explanation, such as Figure 1 The directions in the electric lubricant supply 1 will be defined as shown appropriately later. Specifically, "up," "down," "right," "left," "front," and "rear" will be defined. These directions are used only to facilitate understanding of the structure of the electric lubricant supply 1 and are not intended to limit the orientation of the electric lubricant supply 1. The electric lubricant supply 1 can be oriented in any direction.

[0176] 2-1. First Embodiment

[0177] 2-1-1. Mechanical Structure of Electric Lubricant Supply

[0178] like Figure 1 as well as Figure 2 As shown, the electric lubricant supply 1 of this first embodiment includes a housing 2. The housing 2 includes a first half-split housing 2a and a second half-split housing 2b that are joined together.

[0179] The housing 2 has a motor housing 4 at its central portion in the height direction. The height direction corresponds to either a direction from the lower side of the housing 2 toward the upper side or from the upper side toward the lower side. In this first embodiment, the motor housing 4 is cylindrical and extends along the length direction. The length direction corresponds to either a direction from the front side of the housing 2 toward the rear side or from the rear side toward the front side. The motor housing 4 houses the motor 20. The motor 20 is an electric motor.

[0180] The outer casing 2 has a gripping portion 5 on its upper part. In this first embodiment, the gripping portion 5 extends along the length direction and bends downward.

[0181] The motor housing 4 has a front connecting portion 6 at its front end. The front connecting portion 6 is connected to the front end of the gripping portion 5. The motor housing 4 has a rear connecting portion 7 at its rear end. The rear connecting portion 7 is connected to the rear end of the gripping portion 5. In this first embodiment, the rear connecting portion 7 stands upright in such a way that a space is formed between the motor housing 4 and the gripping portion 5.

[0182] The electric lubricant supply 1 includes a trigger switch 8 housed within a handle 5. The electric lubricant supply 1 also includes a trigger 9 for manual operation of the trigger switch 8 by a user of the electric lubricant supply 1.

[0183] The trigger 9 is pulled by the user to drive the motor 20 (i.e., to discharge the lubricant). The trigger 9 is configured to be displaceable between an initial position and a maximum position. When the trigger 9 is not manually operated, it is in the initial position. Corresponding to manual operation, the trigger 9 moves from the initial position toward the maximum position.

[0184] When trigger 9 is between the initial position and the minimum position, trigger switch 8 is open, and motor 20 stops. The minimum position is between the initial position and the maximum position. When trigger 9 is between the minimum position and the maximum position, trigger switch 8 is closed, and motor 20 can rotate. In this first embodiment, trigger 9 protrudes downward from the gripping part 5.

[0185] The gripping part 5 has a lamp 10 on its front surface. In this first embodiment, the lamp 10 includes a light-emitting diode (LED) (not shown) as a light source.

[0186] The handle 5 has an operation panel 70 on its front upper surface. The operation panel 70 is configured to turn the lamp 10 on or off and to be manually operated by the user to change the setting of the electric lubricant supply 1.

[0187] The grip 5 has a first locking button 12 in front of the trigger 9. The first locking button 12 is configured to be pressed by the user to lock the trigger 9 in the maximum position. The grip 5 has a second locking button 13 below the first locking button 12. The second locking button 13 is configured to be pressed by the user to lock the trigger 9 in the initial position (i.e., the unpulled position).

[0188] The rear connecting portion 7 has a battery holding portion 14 at its rear end. The battery holding portion 14 is configured to detachably mount the battery pack 15. In this first embodiment, the battery holding portion 14 is configured such that the battery pack 15 is mounted to the battery holding portion 14 by sliding the battery pack 15 from top to bottom at its rear end.

[0189] The battery pack 15 contains a battery (not shown). In this first embodiment, the battery has a rated voltage of 36 volts. The battery pack 15 supplies power from the battery to the electric lubricant supply 1 via the battery holding section 14.

[0190] The battery holding section 14 has a terminal block 16 inside. The terminal block 16 is configured to be electrically connected to the battery pack 15 assembled in the battery holding section 14. In this first embodiment, the terminal block 16 extends along the height direction.

[0191] The battery holding section 14 houses the control unit 17 in front of the terminal block 16. In this first embodiment, the control unit 17 extends along the height direction. The control unit 17 includes a control circuit board 18.

[0192] In this first embodiment, motor 20 is an internal rotor type brushless motor (specifically, a 3-phase brushless DC motor). In other embodiments, motor 20 may also be any other type of motor (e.g., a brushed DC motor).

[0193] Motor 20 has a stator 21. Stator 21 has 3 leads 27 ( Figure 2 Only one lead 27 is shown. The stator 21 has a first insulator 23A at its front end. The stator 21 has a second insulator 23B at its rear end.

[0194] The stator 21 includes three coils 24 wound via a first insulator 23A and a second insulator 23B. The second insulator 23B includes six terminals (not shown) respectively fused to the ends of the metal wires of the coils 24.

[0195] The second insulator 23B has a short-circuit component 25. The short-circuit component 25 has three embedded short-circuit metal parts 26. Figure 2 Only two short-circuit metal parts 26 are shown. These short-circuit metal parts 26 electrically connect the terminals of the second insulator 23B in a triangular configuration (or triangular connection) with the coil 24 described above. The coil 24 described above can also be configured in a star configuration (or star connection).

[0196] The stator 21 has a sensor circuit board 28 between the second insulator 23B and the short-circuit component 25. The sensor circuit board 28 has first to third rotational position sensors 28A to 28C (see reference). Figure 6 In this first embodiment, although the first to third rotary position sensors 28A to 28C are Hall sensors, they are not limited to Hall sensors. The first to third rotary position sensors 28A to 28C are connected to three signal lines 29. Figure 2 Only one signal line 29 is shown. Lead 27 and signal line 29 are connected to the control circuit board 18 of the control unit 17.

[0197] The motor 20 has a rotor 22 inside the stator 21. The rotor 22 has a rotating shaft 30 at its center. The rotating shaft 30 has two or more permanent magnets 31 embedded in the outer peripheral wall of the rotating shaft 30.

[0198] The first to third rotational position sensors 28A to 28C are (i) arranged around the rotor 22, and (ii) output the first to third rotational signals corresponding to the rotational position of the rotational shaft 30 (and thus the rotational position of the rotor 22).

[0199] The rotating shaft 30 includes a fan 32 mounted at its front end. In this first embodiment, the fan 32 extends orthogonally to the rotating shaft 30.

[0200] The rear joint 7 houses the first bearing 35 behind the short-circuit member 25. The first bearing 35 supports the rear end of the rotating shaft 30 so that it can rotate.

[0201] The motor housing 4 has a gearbox 40 in front of the motor 20. In this first embodiment, the gearbox 40 is cylindrical. The gearbox 40 has an opening at its rear end. The gearbox 40 includes a support plate 41 mounted on the opening. A rotating shaft 30 protrudes into the gearbox 40 through the support plate 41. The support plate 41 holds a second bearing 42. The second bearing 42 supports the front end of the rotating shaft 30 so that it can rotate.

[0202] The gearbox 40 has a main shaft 44 at its front end. The gearbox 40 houses the transmission mechanism 43. The transmission mechanism 43 is connected to the rotating shaft 30 and transmits the rotation of the rotating shaft 30 to the pump 60 (described later) via the main shaft 44. The transmission mechanism 43 is configured to: (i) receive the rotation of the rotating shaft 30, and (ii) rotate the main shaft 44 at a speed lower than the rotational speed of the rotating shaft 30. That is, the transmission mechanism 43 reduces the rotational speed of the rotating shaft 30 and transmits it to the main shaft 44. The transmission mechanism 43 may also include planetary gears.

[0203] The housing 2 has a crankcase 45 at the front end of the gearbox 40. In this first embodiment, the crankcase 45 extends along the height direction. The main shaft 44 protrudes from the gearbox 40 into the crankcase 45.

[0204] The crankcase 45 houses the crank plate 46 located at the front end of the main shaft 44. The crank plate 46 has an eccentric pin 47 protruding forward.

[0205] The crankcase 45 has a slider 48 in front of the crankshaft disc 46. The slider 48 has an elongated hole 48A extending along its width. The width direction corresponds to either a direction from the right side of the housing 2 towards the left side or from the left side towards the right side. An eccentric pin 47 is inserted into the elongated hole 48A. The lower center of the slider 48 is connected to a plunger 50. The plunger 50 is connected to the upper end of the slider 48 and extends downward.

[0206] The crankcase 45 includes a slider guide 49 that supports the slider 48 and allows it to move up and down. The slider 48 and the slider guide 49 are also... Figure 3 As shown in the figure, slider 48 is able to move in the height direction along slider guide 49.

[0207] In the crankcase 45 configured as described above, when the crankshaft 46 rotates together with the main shaft 44, the eccentric pin 47 performs an eccentric motion. The vertical stroke of the eccentric pin 47 causes the slider 48 and the plunger 50 to reciprocate up and down. That is, the crankshaft 46 and the slider 48 convert the rotational motion of the motor 20 into a linear reciprocating motion.

[0208] The crankcase 45 has a front retainer 51 at its lower part. The housing 2 has a rear retainer 52 at the rear of the front retainer 51 and at the lower part of the motor housing 4. The rear retainer 52 has two downwardly projecting feet 53 at its front end and rear end.

[0209] The electric lubricant supply 1 includes a housing 54 supported by a front retainer 51 and a rear retainer 52. The housing 54 has an open front end. The housing 54 passes through the rear retainer 52 and reaches the rear surface of the front retainer 51. The front end of the housing 54 is screwed into the rear surface of the front retainer 51. That is, the housing 54 extends along its length below the motor housing 4.

[0210] The housing 54 houses the rod 55. The rod 55 extends from the rear end of the housing 54 toward the front end. The rod 55 holds the piston 56 so that it can move along the rod 55. The rod 55 has a rear end protruding from the housing 54. The housing 54 has a handle 57 mounted on the rear end of the rod 55. The housing 54 houses the coil spring 58. The coil spring 58 is located behind the piston 56 and applies force to the piston 56 forward. The housing 54 houses a grease reservoir (not shown) filled with grease in front of the piston 56. When the piston 56 presses against this grease reservoir, grease is supplied into the front retainer 51.

[0211] The front retainer 51 is equipped with a pump 60. The pump 60 is equipped with the aforementioned plunger 50. The pump 60 is equipped with an upper cylinder 60A and a lower cylinder 60B. The upper cylinder 60A and the lower cylinder 60B form a chamber 63. The plunger 50 is located within the chamber 63.

[0212] The chamber 63 has an inlet hole 63A between the upper cylindrical portion 60A and the lower cylindrical portion 60B. The chamber 63 is connected to the housing 54 via the inlet hole 63A. Lubricating grease flows from the grease box through the inlet hole 63A and is supplied into the chamber 63.

[0213] The upper cylinder 60A has a sealing ring 61A on its upper part. The plunger 50 passes through the sealing ring 61A. The sealing ring 61A is used to prevent or inhibit the leakage of grease from the upper cylinder 60A upward from the chamber 63.

[0214] The lower cylinder 60B has a discharge passage 66. The discharge passage 66 (i) communicates with the chamber 63 via a one-way valve 64 described later, and (ii) extends along its length. The front retainer 51 has a front cylinder 60C at its front end. The front cylinder 60C protrudes forward from the front retainer 51. The discharge passage 66 passes through the center of the front cylinder 60C. The discharge passage 66 has a discharge port 66A at its front end. The front cylinder 60C is connected to a hose 68. Grease is discharged from the discharge port 66A via the hose 68 to the outside of the electric lubricant supply 1.

[0215] The pump 60 has the aforementioned one-way valve 64 in the lower part of the chamber 63. The one-way valve 64 allows grease to flow from the chamber 63 to the discharge passage 66, while inhibiting or preventing grease from flowing back from the discharge passage 66 to the chamber 63.

[0216] The front cylinder 60C has a safety valve 69 on its right side. The safety valve 69 is configured to discharge the grease in the discharge passage 66 to the outside of the electric lubricant supply 1 when the pressure of the grease in the discharge passage 66 reaches a specified pressure or above.

[0217] The front retainer 51 has an exhaust valve 67 at its front end. The exhaust valve 67 is provided to discharge gas (e.g., air) from the chamber 63 (specifically, near the inlet port 63A) toward the outside of the electric lubricant supply 1. When the exhaust valve 67 is tightened, the chamber 63 is disconnected from the outside of the electric lubricant supply 1. The electric lubricant supply 1 is normally used with the exhaust valve 67 tightened. When the exhaust valve 67 is loosened, the chamber 63 is connected to the outside of the electric lubricant supply 1. At this time, if there is gas in the chamber 63, the gas can be discharged to the outside of the electric lubricant supply 1 via the exhaust valve 67.

[0218] 2-1-2. Mechanical Action of Electric Lubricant Supply

[0219] In the electric lubricant supply 1 configured as described above, when the user pulls the trigger 9, the motor 20 rotates, and in turn the rotating shaft 30 rotates.

[0220] The rotation of the rotating shaft 30 is transmitted to the main shaft 44 via the transmission mechanism 43, and the crank disk 46 rotates together with the main shaft 44. Accordingly, the eccentric pin 47 performs an eccentric motion. Corresponding to the eccentric motion of the eccentric pin 47, (i) the slider 48 moves up and down along the slider guide 49, and (ii) accordingly, the plunger 50 reciprocates up and down.

[0221] To be more specific, such as Figure 3 As shown in (A), (B), (C), and (D), the plunger 50 sequentially passes through the first state ( Figure 3 (A) ), State 2 ( Figure 3 (B) ), third state ( Figure 3 (C) ), State 4 ( Figure 3 (D) and move up and down (specifically, one round trip). In Figure 3 (A), (B), (C), and (D) schematically show the location of the inlet hole 63A.

[0222] The first state is: the state in which slider 48 is moving upwards. More specifically, the first state is: the state in which slider 48 is in the middle of its reciprocating range. Figure 2 This indicates the electric lubricant supply 1 in state 1. From Figure 2 It is evident that in the first state, the plunger 50 is inserted into the lower cylinder 60B. As the motor 20 rotates further from the first state, the electric lubricant supply 1 transitions to the second state.

[0223] The second state is when slider 48 has reached the uppermost position of its reciprocating range. Before slider 48 reaches the uppermost position, the lower end of plunger 50 is pulled out from the lower cylinder 60B, thereby allowing grease to flow from housing 54 into chamber 63. In the second state, the lower end of plunger 50 is either completely retracted into the upper cylinder 60A or slightly protrudes downward from the upper cylinder 60A. As motor 20 rotates further from the second state, slider 48 moves downward, and electric lubricant supply 1 migrates to the third state.

[0224] The third state is the state in which the slider 48 is moving downwards. More specifically, the third state is the state in which the slider 48 is in the middle of its reciprocating range. In the third state, similar to the first state, the plunger 50 is inserted into the lower cylinder 60B. As the motor 20 rotates further from the third state, the electric lubricant supply 1 moves to the fourth state.

[0225] The fourth state is when slider 48 has reached the lowest point of its reciprocating range. In the fourth state, the lower end of plunger 50 reaches near the lower end of chamber 63. As motor 20 rotates further from the fourth state, slider 48 moves upward, and electric lubricant supply 1 migrates back to the first state.

[0226] During the period from state 2 to state 4, plunger 50 moves downward. During this period, grease in chamber 63 is pressed against the bottom surface of plunger 50 (i.e., the surface on the lower end side, hereinafter referred to as the "lower end face of the plunger"). Accordingly, grease flows into hose 68 via check valve 64, discharge passage 66, and discharge port 66A, and is discharged from hose 68 toward the outside of electric lubricant supply 1.

[0227] Thus, during the rotation of motor 20, the slider 48 reciprocates repeatedly (and consequently the plunger 50 reciprocates), thereby continuously discharging (or being discharged) grease from discharge port 66A. Grease is discharged with each reciprocation of plunger 50. Therefore, one reciprocation of plunger 50 can be considered one grease discharge operation. One reciprocation of plunger 50 (i.e., one discharge operation) is an example of the discharge operation specified in the summary of the embodiments.

[0228] Motor 20 can also be oriented towards Figure 3 The action is reversed. In this case, the plunger 50 moves up and down sequentially through states 4 to 1, thereby... Figure 3 In the same manner, the grease is expelled.

[0229] 2-1-3. Details of the control panel

[0230] like Figure 4 As shown, the operation panel 70 includes a first switch 71. In this first embodiment, the first switch 71 and the second and third switches 72 and 73, described later, are push-button switches. In other embodiments, the first to third switches 71 to 73 may also be other types of manual switches.

[0231] Each time the first switch 71 is briefly pressed, the rotational speed level of the motor 20 is sequentially switched (i.e., set) to one of multiple rotational speed bands (or rotational speed levels). These multiple rotational speed bands include, for example, speed bands 1 through 4. The maximum rotational speed of the motor 20 is set in each rotational speed band. The maximum rotational speed increases in, for example, the order of speed band 1, speed band 2, speed band 3, and speed band 4.

[0232] Motor 20 rotates at a maximum speed corresponding to a set rotational speed range. Specifically, the target rotational speed is set based on, for example, the operating mode described later, and / or the pull amount (i.e., position) of trigger 9, with the set maximum rotational speed as the upper limit. Constant rotation control (in other words, speed feedback control) is applied to motor 20 to ensure that the actual rotational speed matches the target rotational speed.

[0233] When switch 71 is pressed and held, lamp 10 is illuminated. After lamp 10 is illuminated, it can be turned off if, for example, (i) a predetermined time has elapsed or (ii) switch 71 is pressed and held again. A short press corresponds to releasing the press operation after a certain time has elapsed since the initial press. A long press corresponds to releasing the press operation after a certain period of continuous pressing.

[0234] The operation panel 70 includes a first display screen 74. Information indicating the set rotation speed band (e.g., any value from "1" to "4") is displayed on the first display screen 74. "1" to "4" represent the first to fourth speed bands, respectively. In this first embodiment, the first display screen 74 and the second and third display screens 75A and 75B, described later, are each a seven-segment display screen. In other embodiments, the first to third display screens 74, 75A, and 75B may also be other types of display screens, including liquid crystal displays (LCDs).

[0235] The operation panel 70 includes the aforementioned second switch 72 and third switch 73. Each time the second and third switches 72 and 73 are pressed simultaneously, the operating mode of the electric lubricant supply 1 is switched. In this first embodiment, the operating modes include a continuous discharge mode and an automatic discharge mode (or a metered discharge mode). In this first embodiment, each time the second and third switches 72 and 73 are pressed simultaneously, the operating mode alternately switches between the continuous discharge mode and the automatic discharge mode.

[0236] In continuous discharge mode, the motor 20 rotates continuously during the pulling of trigger 9. In this first embodiment, the target rotational speed in continuous discharge mode changes according to the position of trigger 9. Specifically, the target rotational speed increases continuously or in stages, corresponding to the movement of trigger 9 from the minimum position to the target arrival position. More specifically, the target rotational speed increases from a predetermined minimum value (e.g., zero) toward a maximum rotational speed corresponding to a set rotational speed range. The target arrival position may exist between the minimum and maximum positions, or coincide with the maximum position. When trigger 9 reaches the target arrival position, the target rotational speed reaches the maximum rotational speed corresponding to the set rotational speed range. When trigger 9 is between the target arrival position and the maximum position, the target rotational speed is maintained at the maximum rotational speed.

[0237] Regarding the target rotation speed in continuous discharge mode, it can also be maintained at a constant rotation speed (e.g., the maximum rotation speed corresponding to the set rotation speed band) regardless of the position of trigger 9.

[0238] In automatic discharge mode, motor 20 begins to rotate in response to the pulling of trigger 9. Furthermore, after rotation begins, motor 20 will automatically stop even when trigger 9 is pulled, once plunger 50 (in other words, slider 48) has reciprocated a target number of times. The target number of reciprocations of plunger 50 corresponds to: (i) the specified discharge action has performed a target number of reciprocations, and / or (ii) an amount of grease corresponding to the target number of reciprocations is discharged. The target number of reciprocations can be set by the user to any value.

[0239] In automatic discharge mode, the target rotation speed is set to a constant speed (e.g., the maximum rotation speed corresponding to the set rotation speed range) regardless of the position of trigger 9. However, the target rotation speed in automatic discharge mode can also vary depending on the position of trigger 9, just like in continuous discharge mode.

[0240] The operation panel 70 includes a set number display screen 75. The set number display screen 75 (i) includes the aforementioned second display screen 75A and third display screen 75B, and (ii) can display a two-digit value. When the operation mode is set to automatic discharge mode, the target number of reciprocations is displayed on the set number display screen 75.

[0241] In this first embodiment, in automatic discharge mode, any target number of reciprocating motions can be set, with a maximum set number as the upper limit. The maximum set number can be, for example, a predetermined value of 99 times or less. The user can set the target number of reciprocating motions to any value by operating the second switch 72 or the third switch 73. Specifically, in automatic discharge mode, each time the second switch 72 is pressed, (i) the target number of reciprocating motions increases one by one, and (ii) the increased target number of reciprocating motions is displayed on the set number display screen 75. Conversely, in automatic discharge mode, each time the third switch 73 is pressed, (i) the target number of reciprocating motions decreases one by one, and (ii) the decreased target number of reciprocating motions is displayed on the set number display screen 75. The maximum set number can be arbitrarily determined, for example, a predetermined value of 99 times or less, or a predetermined value of 100 times or more.

[0242] 2-1-4. Electrical Configuration of Electric Lubricant Supply

[0243] Reference Figure 5 This section describes the electrical configuration of the electric lubricant supply 1. The electric lubricant supply 1 includes a control circuit board 18. The control circuit board 18 has a ground terminal. The electric lubricant supply 1 includes a power line Lp. The power line Lp extends from a positive connection terminal (not shown) onto the control circuit board 18. The positive connection terminal is connected to the positive terminal of the battery pack 15 while it is being assembled into the battery holding section 14. The electric lubricant supply 1 includes a ground wire Ln. The ground wire Ln extends from a negative connection terminal (not shown) toward the ground terminal on the control circuit board 18. The negative connection terminal is connected to the negative terminal of the battery pack 15 while it is being assembled into the battery holding section 14. The battery pack 15 applies its rated voltage between the power line Lp and the ground wire Ln.

[0244] The electric lubricant supply 1 includes a power supply circuit 84. In this first embodiment, the power supply circuit 84 is located on the control circuit board 18. The power supply circuit 84 is connected to the power supply line Lp and the ground terminal. The power supply circuit 84 generates a fixed DC voltage (hereinafter referred to as the "power supply voltage") Vc based on the battery voltage supplied from the battery pack 15.

[0245] The electric lubricant supply 1 includes a control circuit 80. The control circuit 80 is located on a control circuit board 18 and operates upon receiving a power supply voltage Vc. The control circuit 80 is a microcomputer equipped with a CPU (or processor) 80A and a semiconductor memory 80B. The semiconductor memory 80B includes ROM, RAM, and rewritable non-volatile memory. Examples of non-volatile memory include EEPROM, flash memory, ReRAM, and FeRAM. The various functions of the control circuit 80 are implemented by the CPU 80A executing programs stored in the semiconductor memory 80B. By executing the program through the CPU 80A, the corresponding methods are performed.

[0246] In other embodiments, the control circuit 80 may also include an additional microcomputer. Furthermore, in other embodiments, some or all of the functions performed by the CPU 80A may be implemented using one or more electronic components (e.g., integrated circuits). Furthermore, in other embodiments, the control circuit 80 may also be a logic circuit (or hardwired logic connection) including two or more electronic components. Furthermore, in other embodiments, the control circuit 80 may also include an ASIC and / or an ASSP. Furthermore, in other embodiments, the control circuit 80 may also include a programmable logic device capable of constructing reconfigurable logic circuits. Examples of programmable logic devices include FPGAs.

[0247] The electric lubricant supply 1 includes a drive circuit 82. The drive circuit 82 is configured to supply current (hereinafter referred to as "motor current") to the motor 20 to drive the motor 20. The drive circuit 82 is electrically connected to a power supply line Lp and a ground line Ln. The drive circuit 82 (i) receives a battery voltage, (ii) generates a three-phase voltage (i.e., generates three-phase power) based on the battery voltage, and (iii) supplies the three-phase voltage to the motor 20. In this first embodiment, the drive circuit 82 is located on a control circuit board 18.

[0248] Although the drive circuit 82 is a 3-phase full-bridge circuit, it is not limited to a 3-phase full-bridge circuit. The drive circuit 82 includes: switches Q1 to Q3 configured on the high-side and switches Q4 to Q6 configured on the low-side. Switches Q1 to Q3 are connected to the power supply line Lp and their corresponding leads 27, respectively, and function as high-side switches. Switches Q4 to Q6 are connected to their corresponding leads 27 and the ground terminal, respectively, and function as low-side switches.

[0249] Switches Q1 to Q6 (numbers 1 to 6) receive drive control signals Q1 to Q6 from control circuit 80, respectively. Switches Q1 to Q6 are turned on or off according to the received corresponding drive control signal. In this first embodiment, the drive control signals Q1 to Q6 can be pulse width modulation signals. In this first embodiment, switches Q1 to Q6 are semiconductor switches. Examples of semiconductor switches include field-effect transistors (FETs), bipolar transistors, and insulated-gate bipolar transistors (IGBTs).

[0250] When motor 20 is driven, essentially one high-side switch (i.e., one of switches Q1 to Q3, numbered 1 to 3) and one low-side switch (i.e., one of switches Q4 to Q6, numbered 4 to 6) are switched on. Accordingly, motor current flows from the positive terminal of the battery through the high-side switch, motor 20, and the low-side switch to the negative terminal of the battery, thereby causing motor 20 to rotate.

[0251] The electric lubricant supply 1 includes a sliding resistor 81 with a lever 81A. The lever 81A has a first displaceable end and a second end connected to a control circuit 80. The sliding resistor 81 has a resistance value that changes according to the position of the first end of the lever 81A. The second end of the lever 81A outputs a voltage (hereinafter referred to as the "trigger voltage") corresponding to the resistance value to the control circuit 80. The first end of the lever 81A is displaced according to the position of the trigger 9 within a range from an initial position to a maximum position. For example, the resistance value of the sliding resistor 81 is minimum when the trigger 9 is in the initial position, and increases as the trigger 9 approaches its maximum position from the initial position.

[0252] The electric lubricant supply 1 includes first to fourth pull-up resistors R1 to R4. In this first embodiment, the first to fourth pull-up resistors R1 to R4 are located on the control circuit board 18. Each of the first to fourth pull-up resistors R1 to R4 has a first terminal connected to the power supply circuit 84 in order to receive a power supply voltage Vc from the power supply circuit 84. The first pull-up resistor R1 has a second terminal connected to the first terminal of the trigger switch 8 and the control circuit 80. The second pull-up resistor R2 has a second terminal connected to the first terminal of the first switch 71 and the control circuit 80. The third pull-up resistor R3 has a second terminal connected to the first terminal of the second switch 72 and the control circuit 80. The fourth pull-up resistor R4 has a second terminal connected to the first terminal of the third switch 73 and the control circuit 80. The trigger switch 8, the first switch 71, the second switch 72, and the third switch 73 each have a second terminal connected to a ground terminal on the control circuit board 18.

[0253] When trigger switches 8, 71, 72, and 73 are open, the second terminals of pull-up resistors R1 to R4 have a voltage at the same level as the power supply voltage Vc (i.e., a high level). When trigger switches 8, 71, 72, and 73 are closed, the second terminals of pull-up resistors R1 to R4 have a voltage at the same level as the ground terminal (i.e., a low level). Pull-up resistors R1 to R4 can have the same resistance value or different resistance values.

[0254] The control circuit 80 can detect whether the trigger 9, the first switch 71, the second switch 72, and the third switch 73 are manually operated based on the voltage at the second terminal of the first to fourth pull-up resistors R1 to R4. Specifically, when the voltage at the second terminal of the first to fourth pull-up resistors R1 to R4 is high, the control circuit 80 detects that the trigger 9, the first switch 71, the second switch 72, and the third switch 73 are not manually operated. When the voltage at the second terminal of the first to fourth pull-up resistors R1 to R4 is low, the control circuit 80 detects that the trigger 9, the first switch 71, the second switch 72, and the third switch 73 are manually operated.

[0255] The control circuit board 18 is connected to the first to third display screens 74, 75A, and 75B of the operation panel 70. The first to third display screens 74, 75A, and 75B receive power supply voltage Vc from the control circuit board 18 to operate. In addition, the first to third display screens 74, 75A, and 75B receive the first to third display control signals from the control circuit 80 to display information.

[0256] The control circuit board 18 is connected to the sensor circuit board 28. The first to third rotational position sensors 28A to 28C on the sensor circuit board 28 receive a power supply voltage Vc from the control circuit board 18 and operate accordingly. The first to third rotational position sensors 28A to 28C are connected to the control circuit 80 via signal lines 29, outputting the first to third rotational signals to the control circuit 80. The first to third rotational signals are associated with the three phases of the motor 20 (i.e., phase U, phase V, and phase W). The first to third rotational signals have a phase difference of 120 degrees electrical angle between them. The first to third rotational signals can also be, for example, sinusoidal signals. In this case, whenever the rotor 22 rotates by 180 degrees electrical angle, the voltage of each of the first to third rotational signals will reverse from positive to negative or from negative to positive. The first to third rotational signals can also be, for example, rectangular wave signals. In this case, whenever the rotor 22 rotates by an electrical angle of 180 degrees, the logic values ​​of the first to third rotation signals will be reversed.

[0257] In other embodiments, the sensor circuit board 28 may be configured to output a single rotation detection signal (e.g., a pulse signal) to the control circuit 80 instead of the first to third rotation signals. The rotation detection signal changes whenever the rotor 22 rotates by an electrical angle of 60 degrees.

[0258] The electric lubricant supply 1 includes a temperature sensor 100 connected to a control circuit 80. The temperature sensor 100 is configured to detect the temperature of the electric lubricant supply 1. More specifically, the temperature sensor 100 is configured to detect the temperature of the lubricating grease, either directly or indirectly. The temperature sensor 100 outputs a temperature detection signal, representing the detected temperature, to the control circuit 80. The temperature sensor 100 can also be any type capable of detecting temperature. The temperature sensor 100 may include, for example, a positive temperature coefficient (PTC) thermistor, a negative temperature coefficient (NTC) thermistor, or a critical temperature resistor (CTR) thermistor.

[0259] The temperature sensor 100 can be located at any position that allows for direct or indirect detection of the temperature (or its level) of the grease. For example, the temperature sensor 100 can also be positioned in direct contact with the grease. More specifically, the temperature sensor 100 can also be positioned, for example, at the inlet of the pump 60 (e.g., inlet port 63A).

[0260] Alternatively, the temperature sensor 100 can be positioned in a location that does not come into contact with the lubricant. Specifically, the temperature sensor 100 can be positioned, for example, on the surface or inside of the grip 5, around the front retainer 51, or near the housing 54 in the housing 2, etc.

[0261] 2-1-5. Functional Components of an Electric Lubricant Supply

[0262] Reference Figure 6 The functions of the control circuit 80 are explained below. The control circuit 80 includes: a pull amount detection unit 77, a switch detection unit 78, a reciprocating frequency setting unit 83, a reciprocating frequency calculation unit 79, a display control unit 85, a speed setting unit 86, an operation mode setting unit 87, a timing unit 88, a reciprocating frequency determination unit 89, a gas entrainment detection unit 90, an operation control unit 91, and a motor drive control unit 92. In this first embodiment, these functions are integrated into the control circuit 80 via software. That is, these functions are implemented by the CPU 80A executing the corresponding program (specifically, the main processing described later).

[0263] In other embodiments, at least one function of the pull amount detection unit 77, switch detection unit 78, reciprocation number setting unit 83, reciprocation number calculation unit 79, display control unit 85, speed setting unit 86, operation mode setting unit 87, timing unit 88, reciprocation determination unit 89, gas entrainment detection unit 90, operation control unit 91, and motor drive control unit 92 may be assembled into the control circuit 80 by hardware (electronic circuitry) rather than by software. Furthermore, in other embodiments, at least one function of the pull amount detection unit 77, switch detection unit 78, reciprocation number setting unit 83, reciprocation number calculation unit 79, display control unit 85, speed setting unit 86, operation mode setting unit 87, timing unit 88, reciprocation determination unit 89, gas entrainment detection unit 90, operation control unit 91, and motor drive control unit 92 may be omitted.

[0264] The pull amount detection unit 77 receives a trigger voltage from the sliding resistor 81. Based on the trigger voltage, the pull amount detection unit 77 detects the actual pull amount of the trigger 9. The actual pull amount is the actual pull amount (i.e., the actual position). The pull amount detection unit 77 detects zero actual pull amount when the magnitude of the trigger voltage corresponds to the initial position of the trigger 9. The pull amount detection unit 77 detects the maximum actual pull amount when the magnitude of the trigger voltage corresponds to the maximum position of the trigger 9. The pull amount detection unit 77 detects the actual pull amount between zero and the maximum value when the magnitude of the trigger voltage corresponds to the intermediate position of the trigger 9. The intermediate position is between the initial position and the maximum position. The pull amount detection unit 77 outputs the detected actual pull amount to the speed setting unit 86.

[0265] The switch detection unit 78 detects the changes from off to on, and from on to off, of each of the trigger switch 8, the first switch 71, the second switch 72, and the third switch 73. The switch detection unit 78 outputs a first signal to the motion control unit 91 and the reciprocating frequency calculation unit 79 corresponding to the change of trigger switch 8 from off to on. The first signal indicates that trigger switch 8 has changed from off to on. The switch detection unit 78 outputs a second signal to the motion control unit 91 and the reciprocating frequency calculation unit 79 corresponding to the change of trigger switch 8 from on to off. The second signal indicates that trigger switch 8 has changed from on to off. The switch detection unit 78 outputs a third signal to the motion mode setting unit 87 corresponding to the change of first switch 71 from off to on. The third signal indicates that first switch 71 has changed from off to on. The switch detection unit 78 outputs a fourth signal to the motion mode setting unit 87 corresponding to the simultaneous on / off of the second switch 72 and the third switch 73. Simultaneous activation means that the switches changed from off to on at the same time or approximately at the same time. Signal 4 indicates that switches 2 and 3 were activated simultaneously.

[0266] During the period when the third switch 73 is open, the switch detection unit 78 outputs a fifth signal to the reciprocating frequency setting unit 83, corresponding to the change of the second switch 72 from open to closed. The fifth signal indicates that the second switch 72 has changed from open to closed. During the period when the second switch 72 is open, the switch detection unit 78 outputs a sixth signal to the reciprocating frequency setting unit 83, corresponding to the change of the third switch 73 from open to closed. The sixth signal indicates that the third switch 73 has changed from open to closed.

[0267] The operation mode setting unit 87 sets the rotation speed band of the motor 20 according to the input third signal. Specifically, whenever the third signal is input, the operation mode setting unit 87 changes the rotation speed band in the order of first speed band → second speed band → third speed band → fourth speed band → first speed band…

[0268] The operation mode setting unit 87 sets the operation mode of the electric lubricant supply 1 to either continuous discharge mode or automatic discharge mode in response to the input of the fourth signal. Specifically, whenever the fourth signal is input, the operation mode setting unit 87 alternately switches the operation mode between continuous discharge mode and automatic discharge mode.

[0269] The motion mode setting unit 87 outputs the set motion mode to the speed setting unit 86, the reciprocation count setting unit 83, the reciprocation count calculation unit 79, and the motion control unit 91. Figure 6The arrows pointing from the motion mode setting unit 87 to the reciprocation count setting unit 83 and the reciprocation count calculation unit 79 are omitted. The motion mode setting unit 87 outputs the set rotation speed to the speed setting unit 86 and the display control unit 85. Figure 6 The arrow pointing from the action mode setting unit 87 to the display control unit 85 is omitted.

[0270] The speed setting unit 86 sets the target rotational speed of the motor 20 based on the input actual pulling amount, rotational speed band, and operating mode. The speed setting unit 86 notifies the set target rotational speed to the motion control unit 91 and the gas entrainment detection unit 90. The rotational speed of the motor 20 is directly proportional to the discharge speed. The discharge speed is the rate at which grease is discharged from the discharge port 66A; in other words, the amount of grease discharged per unit time. Therefore, the set target rotational speed is equivalent to the set target value of the discharge speed.

[0271] Specifically, when the operation mode is set to continuous discharge mode, the speed setting unit 86 sets the target rotational speed to a value corresponding to the actual pulling amount within a settable range. The settable range is from a minimum value (e.g., zero) to the maximum rotational speed corresponding to the rotational speed band. On the other hand, when the operation mode is set to automatic discharge mode, the speed setting unit 86 maintains the target rotational speed at a constant speed (e.g., the maximum rotational speed corresponding to the rotational speed band).

[0272] In this first embodiment, the target rotational speed is not immediately set to a predetermined value when the motor 20 is started. The target rotational speed gradually increases toward the predetermined value after the motor 20 is started. The predetermined value is the target rotational speed corresponding to the position of the trigger 9 in continuous discharge mode, and the aforementioned constant target rotational speed in automatic discharge mode. However, the target rotational speed can also be set to the predetermined value immediately when the motor 20 is started.

[0273] When the operation mode is set to automatic discharge mode, the reciprocating frequency setting unit 83 sets the target reciprocating frequency of the plunger 50 (in other words, the target number of discharge operations) based on the input 5th and 6th signals. Specifically, whenever the 5th signal is received, the reciprocating frequency setting unit 83 increases the target reciprocating frequency by 1 from the current value. Whenever the 6th signal is received, the reciprocating frequency setting unit 83 decreases the target reciprocating frequency by 1 from the current value. Alternatively, the latest target reciprocating frequency can always be maintained (i.e., stored). Alternatively, whenever the battery pack 15 is installed in the electric lubricant supply unit 1 (i.e., whenever the control circuit 80 is activated), the target reciprocating frequency can be set to an initial value (e.g., zero). In this first embodiment, the target reciprocating frequency is, for example, set to any one of 0 to 99. The reciprocating frequency setting unit 83 outputs the set target reciprocating frequency to the reciprocating frequency calculation unit 79. The target reciprocating frequency is an example of the target discharge frequency in the summary of the embodiments.

[0274] The reciprocating determination unit 89 receives the first to third rotation signals from the first to third rotation position sensors 28A to 28C. Based on the first to third rotation signals, the reciprocating determination unit 89 counts the number of rotations of the motor 20. Based on the number of rotations of the motor 20 and the reduction ratio of the transmission mechanism 43, the reciprocating determination unit 89 determines whether the plunger 50 has performed one reciprocating motion (i.e., whether it has performed one discharge action). Whenever it is determined that the plunger 50 has performed one reciprocating motion (i.e., one discharge action), the reciprocating determination unit 89 outputs a reciprocating determination signal to the reciprocating count calculation unit 79 and the gas entrainment detection unit 90.

[0275] The gas entrainment detection unit 90 detects gas entrainment when the operating mode is set to automatic discharge mode. However, the gas entrainment detection unit 90 can also detect gas entrainment when the operating mode is set to continuous discharge mode. For various reasons, gas (such as air or its air bubbles) may enter the chamber 63. Gas may enter, for example, during the disassembly or assembly of the grease box. Alternatively, gas may initially enter the grease box along with the lubricating grease.

[0276] When gas enters chamber 63, it repeatedly expands / compresses due to the reciprocating motion of plunger 50. This results in a situation where check valve 64 does not open (or is difficult to open) when plunger 50 descends, and grease is not discharged (or is difficult to discharge). Gas entrainment means: (i) this situation, and / or (ii) the fact that gas has already entered chamber 63, and / or (iii) the state in which pump 60 attempts to discharge the gas.

[0277] The gas entrainment detection unit 90 notifies the reciprocating frequency calculation unit 79, the display control unit 85, the timing unit 88, and the motion control unit 91 of the gas entrainment detection result. Specifically, each time the plunger 50 performs one reciprocating motion, the gas entrainment detection unit 90 determines whether gas entrainment has occurred. Furthermore, if no gas entrainment has occurred, the gas entrainment detection state is set to "non-detection," and if gas entrainment has occurred, the gas entrainment detection state is set to "detection." The reciprocating frequency calculation unit 79, the display control unit 85, the timing unit 88, and the motion control unit 91 can identify whether gas entrainment has occurred based on the set gas entrainment detection state.

[0278] Gas entrainment can be detected based on the actual actuation of motor 20. The actual actuation can be either the actual rotational speed of motor 20 or the magnitude of the variation in the actual rotational speed. Examples of the magnitude of the variation in the actual rotational speed include the amplitude of the actual rotational speed and the derivative of the actual rotational speed.

[0279] Corresponding to the reciprocating motion of the plunger 50, a load is applied to the plunger 50 (especially the lower end face of the plunger) from the outside of the plunger 50. Hereinafter, this load is referred to as the "plunger load". The plunger load is applied in a direction that hinders the reciprocating motion of the plunger 50.

[0280] Normally, the plunger load during the period when grease is discharged (i.e., the period during which plunger 50 moves downwards to press the grease) is greater than the plunger load during the period when grease flows into chamber 63 (i.e., the period during which plunger 50 moves upwards). Therefore, the plunger load varies periodically. One cycle of this variation corresponds to one reciprocation of plunger 50.

[0281] Variations in piston load are reflected in the actual rotational speed. That is, when the piston load increases, the actual rotational speed decreases. Conversely, when the piston load decreases, the actual rotational speed increases.

[0282] Therefore, the actual rotational speed is as follows Figure 7 , Figure 8 As illustrated, it changes periodically. Figure 7 This refers to the actual rotational speed and motor current changes when (i) the pump 60 is in normal condition and (ii) the motor 20 is rotating at a low to medium speed. Figure 8 This represents an example of the actual rotational speed and motor current variation when (i) pump 60 is in normal operation and (ii) motor 20 is rotating at high speed. Motor current is the current supplied from drive circuit 82 to motor 20. Normal operation of pump 60 includes a state where no gas entrainment occurs. Figure 7The “plunger reciprocation timing” is the timing when the plunger 50 reaches a specified position (e.g., the uppermost position) during its one reciprocation. Figure 8 as well as Figure 9 The same applies to the "timing of one plunger reciprocation".

[0283] The variation in actual rotational speed is basically greater the higher the actual rotational speed (i.e., the greater the target rotational speed). Figure 7 Although the actual rotational speed is illustrated when the target rotational speed is around 18,000 rpm, the variation in actual rotational speed increases further as the target rotational speed increases. However, in the high-speed band, the inertial force of pump 60 increases. This inertial force acts to suppress the decrease in actual rotational speed caused by the increase in plunger load. Therefore, in the high-speed band, the variation in actual rotational speed decreases conversely as the actual rotational speed increases.

[0284] Furthermore, the variation in plunger load under gas entrainment conditions (hereinafter referred to as "gas entrainment conditions") is less than that under normal conditions. This is because, under gas entrainment conditions, the gas mixed in during the descent of the plunger 50 is compressed. Therefore, the plunger load is smaller compared to the case where only the grease is compressed.

[0285] Therefore, the actual rotational speed variation under gas entrainment conditions is smaller than the actual rotational speed variation under normal conditions. Figure 9 This is an example showing the actual rotational speed and motor current changes under the conditions of (i) gas entrainment and (ii) motor 20 rotating at high speed. Compare... Figure 8 as well as Figure 9 It is evident that even if the target rotation speed is the same, the variation in actual rotation speed and motor current under gas entrainment conditions is smaller than that under normal conditions.

[0286] Thus, the actual rotational speed variation will differ depending on whether gas entrainment occurs. Therefore, the occurrence of gas entrainment can be detected based on the variation in the actual rotational speed.

[0287] Furthermore, the generation of gas entrainment can also be detected based on the actual rotational speed itself. That is, under normal conditions, the plunger 50 receives a relatively larger load compared to the gas entrainment state. Therefore, for the same target rotational speed, the actual rotational speed under normal conditions will be lower than the actual rotational speed under the gas entrainment state. Thus, the generation of gas entrainment can be detected based on the actual rotational speed.

[0288] In this way, gas entrainment can be detected based on various actual operating quantities. Therefore, in this first embodiment, the gas entrainment detection unit 90 determines that gas entrainment has occurred based on the fact that the actual operating quantity has met predetermined requirements. The predetermined requirements can be any requirement indicating that gas entrainment has occurred or that gas entrainment may have occurred (or that it is possible to determine this). In other words, the predetermined requirements can be any requirement indicating that gas has been mixed into the pump 60 (specifically, for example, the chamber 63) or that gas may have been mixed into the pump 60.

[0289] More specifically, the gas entrainment detection unit 90 of this first embodiment determines whether gas entrainment has occurred based on the amplitude of the actual rotational speed. As mentioned above, the actual rotational speed can vary periodically during the operation of the pump 60. That is, the amplitude of the actual rotational speed is generated during the operation of the pump 60.

[0290] Therefore, the gas entrainment detection unit 90 detects the generation of gas entrainment based on the amplitude of the actual rotational speed during a predetermined driving period. The predetermined driving period can be any period during the driving process of the motor 20. In this first embodiment, the predetermined driving period is the period during which the plunger 50 performs one reciprocating motion. Each time the predetermined driving period (i.e., each time the plunger 50 performs one reciprocating motion) passes, the gas entrainment detection unit 90 determines whether gas entrainment has occurred based on the amplitude of the actual rotational speed during that one reciprocating motion.

[0291] The amplitude of the actual rotational speed under gas entrainment conditions is smaller than the amplitude under normal conditions. Therefore, if the maximum amplitude during a specified driving period is below a first threshold, the gas entrainment detection unit 90 determines that gas entrainment has occurred. That is, the aforementioned specified condition includes: the maximum amplitude during a specified driving period is below the first threshold. The maximum amplitude during a specified driving period is the difference between the maximum and minimum values ​​of the actual rotational speed during the specified driving period.

[0292] The first threshold can also be defined as a value that is less than the first expected range and greater than the second expected range. The first expected range is the range of amplitudes expected under normal conditions. The second expected range is the range of amplitudes expected under gas entrainment conditions. The first threshold can also be determined arbitrarily.

[0293] The first threshold can be a constant value or can be variably set according to the operating state of the electric lubricant supply 1. In this first embodiment, the first threshold is variably set according to the operating state.

[0294] In this first embodiment, the operating state includes: target rotation speed. The gas entrainment detection unit 90 sets a first threshold based on the current target rotation speed notified from the speed setting unit 86.

[0295] The actual rotational speed changes in accordance with the target rotational speed. When the actual rotational speed changes, the amplitude of this fluctuation also changes. That is, the piston load tends to increase as the actual rotational speed increases. Furthermore, the lower the actual rotational speed, the smaller the fluctuation in piston load, and the fluctuation in actual rotational speed is further suppressed through speed feedback control. Therefore, the higher the actual rotational speed, the greater the fluctuation in actual rotational speed. Accordingly, the first threshold can be set such that it increases as the target rotational speed increases.

[0296] However, as mentioned earlier, the inertial force of pump 60 increases at high speeds. Therefore, as the actual rotational speed increases, the variation in actual rotational speed decreases conversely.

[0297] Accordingly, the first threshold can be set as follows: (i) in the low-speed to medium-speed band, the first threshold increases as the target rotation speed increases; (ii) in the high-speed band, the first threshold decreases as the target rotation speed increases. More specifically, the first threshold can be set as follows: Figure 10 As illustrated, it is set according to the target rotation speed.

[0298] The motion state can also include the actual rotational speed. That is, the first threshold can also be set based on the actual rotational speed. In this case, the first threshold can be set in the same way as the setting method corresponding to the target rotational speed. For example, it can also be... Figure 10 The horizontal axis in the diagram is rewritten as the actual rotational speed.

[0299] Furthermore, the action state can also include the aforementioned duty cycle. That is, the first threshold can also be set according to the duty cycle. The first threshold can also be arbitrarily varied according to the duty cycle. For example, the first threshold can also increase as the duty cycle increases. Moreover, for example, the first threshold can be set in the same way as the setting method corresponding to the target rotation speed. For example, it is also possible to... Figure 10 The horizontal axis in the diagram is rewritten as the duty cycle.

[0300] Additionally, the operating status can also include the equipment temperature. That is, the first threshold can also be set based on the equipment temperature. The equipment temperature is the temperature of the electric lubricant supply 1. Specifically, the equipment temperature can also be the temperature of the grease, or a temperature that indirectly represents the temperature of the grease.

[0301] The viscosity of the grease changes depending on its temperature. For example, as the temperature of the grease increases, its viscosity decreases. When the viscosity of the grease decreases, the plunger load decreases, and consequently, the amplitude of the actual rotational speed decreases. Therefore, for example, the first threshold can be set such that the first threshold decreases as the temperature of the grease increases. The gas entrainment detection unit 90 can also receive a temperature detection signal from the temperature sensor 100 and set the first threshold based on the temperature indicated by the temperature detection signal.

[0302] When gas entrainment occurs, the timing unit 88 measures the duration of the gas entrainment. The gas entrainment duration is the time during which gas entrainment continues to occur. Specifically, the timing unit 88 begins measuring the duration of the gas entrainment in response to a change in the gas entrainment detection state from "non-detection" to "detection". Specifically, at each calculation point, one count value is accumulated. Furthermore, when the gas entrainment duration has reached a predetermined time (i.e., when the count value has reached a predetermined value), the motion control unit 91 is notified that the gas entrainment has lasted for the predetermined time. Specifically, the timing unit 88 sets the gas entrainment duration state to "detection". The calculation points occur repeatedly according to the control cycle.

[0303] When the operation mode is set to automatic discharge mode, the reciprocating frequency calculation unit 79 calculates the actual number of reciprocating movements of the plunger 50. The reciprocating frequency calculation unit 79 can also calculate the actual number of reciprocating movements when the operation mode is set to continuous discharge mode. The actual number of reciprocating movements is: the actual number of reciprocating movements of the plunger 50. In other words, the actual number of reciprocating movements is: the number of times the discharge action was actually performed. Therefore, the actual number of reciprocating movements can be referred to as the actual number of discharges. The actual number of reciprocating movements is an example of the actual number of discharges in the summary of the implementation method.

[0304] Whenever a reciprocating determination signal is received from the reciprocating determination unit 89 (that is, whenever the plunger 50 performs one reciprocating motion), the reciprocating count calculation unit 79 accumulates the actual number of reciprocating motions. Specifically, whenever a reciprocating determination signal is received, the reciprocating count calculation unit 79 updates the actual number of reciprocating motions to the current value plus "1".

[0305] However, during the period when gas entrainment is detected by the gas entrainment detection unit 90 (i.e., the period when the gas entrainment detection state is set to "detection"), the reciprocating number calculation unit 79 does not update the actual reciprocating number. In other words, the accumulation of the actual reciprocating number is temporarily stopped. After the accumulation of the actual reciprocating number is temporarily stopped, when the gas entrainment is eliminated and the gas entrainment detection state is set to "non-detection", the reciprocating number calculation unit 79 restarts the accumulation of the actual reciprocating number from the value at the time of temporary stop.

[0306] The reciprocating frequency calculation unit 79 notifies the display control unit 85 of the current actual reciprocating frequency. Furthermore, the reciprocating frequency calculation unit 79 outputs the reciprocating frequency difference to the motion control unit 91. The reciprocating frequency difference is the difference between the target reciprocating frequency and the current actual reciprocating frequency.

[0307] In continuous discharge mode, while the trigger switch 8 is turned on, the motion control unit 91 issues a command to the motor drive control unit 92 to drive the motor 20. Specifically, the motion control unit 91 outputs a drive command to the motor drive control unit 92 and notifies it of the current target rotation speed. The drive command requests the motor drive control unit 92 to drive the motor 20.

[0308] In automatic discharge mode, while the trigger switch 8 is turned on, the motion control unit 91 sends a command to the motor drive control unit 92 to drive the motor 20. Specifically, the motion control unit 91 outputs a drive command to the motor drive control unit 92 and notifies it of the current target rotation speed. Furthermore, when the difference in the number of reciprocations notified from the reciprocation count unit 79 has reached zero, the output of the drive command is stopped, and the motor 20 is stopped.

[0309] When the motion control unit 91 operates in automatic discharge mode, if the gas entrainment continuous state is set to "detection" by the timing unit 88 (that is, if the gas entrainment has continued for a specified time), even if the trigger switch 8 is turned on and the difference in the number of reciprocations has not reached zero, the output of the drive command will be stopped and the motor 20 will be stopped.

[0310] The motor drive control unit 92 calculates the rotational position (specifically, electrical angle) and actual rotational speed of the motor 20 based on the first to third rotational signals from the first to third rotational position sensors 28A to 28C.

[0311] Upon receiving a drive command and a target rotation speed from the motion control unit 91, the motor drive control unit 92 performs speed feedback control. Specifically, the motor drive control unit 92 calculates the speed deviation. The speed deviation is the difference between the target rotation speed and the actual rotation speed. Furthermore, the motor drive control unit 92 calculates a duty cycle to make the speed deviation zero (i.e., to make the actual rotation speed match the target rotation speed). The motor drive control unit 92 also outputs drive control signals to two on / off switches to respectively activate those switches. The two on / off switches are the two switches Q1 to Q6 (numbers 1 to 6) corresponding to the rotation position. At least one of the drive control signals output to the two on / off switches is a pulse width modulation signal with the calculated duty cycle. Therefore, the higher the duty cycle, the greater the power supplied to the motor 20.

[0312] The display control unit 85 displays the rotation speed band input from the operation mode setting unit 87 on the first display screen 74. The display control unit 85 displays the actual number of reciprocations input from the reciprocation count unit 79 on the set count display screen 75. When notified of the occurrence of gas entrainment, the display control unit 85 performs notification processing. The notification processing notifies the user of the occurrence of gas entrainment. The notification processing can also be performed arbitrarily. The notification processing can be performed in a way that allows the occurrence of gas entrainment to be identified visually and / or audibly. In the first embodiment, the display control unit 85 notifies the user of gas entrainment by flashing the second display screen 75A and the third display screen 75B. Alternatively, the display control unit 85 may also notify the user of gas entrainment by displaying preset values, symbols, text, etc. on the second display screen 75A and the third display screen 75B. The display control unit 85 is an example of a notification unit in the summary of the embodiments.

[0313] 2-1-6. Main Processor

[0314] Reference Figure 11 This describes the main processing unit used to implement various functions in the automatic discharge mode. When the operating mode is set to automatic discharge mode, the control circuit 80 (more specifically, CPU 80A) executes... Figure 11 The main processing shown.

[0315] When control circuit 80 begins main processing, in S110, it determines whether trigger switch 8 is turned on. If trigger switch 8 is turned off, this process proceeds to S120. In S120, control circuit 80 executes stop-in-process. Details of the stop-in-process are as follows... Figure 12 As shown.

[0316] When the control circuit 80 transitions to the stop processing, in S210, it stops driving the motor 20. Specifically, the motion control unit 91 stops outputting drive commands. In S220, the control circuit 80 determines whether the current reciprocating frequency difference is zero. If the reciprocating frequency difference is not zero, the process proceeds to S240. In this case, the current reciprocating frequency difference is maintained. If the reciprocating frequency difference is zero, the process proceeds to S230. For example, if the target number of reciprocating cycles of the plunger 50 is completed, and the motor 20 automatically stops, and the user disconnects the trigger 9 based on the automatic stop of the motor 20, it can be determined in S220 that the reciprocating frequency difference is zero. In S230, the control circuit 80 resets the actual reciprocating frequency to an initial value (e.g., zero).

[0317] In S240, the control circuit 80 determines whether a change operation has been performed on the target number of reciprocations. The change operation includes turning on either the second switch 72 or the third switch 73. If no change operation has been performed, the process proceeds to S270. If a change operation has been performed, the process proceeds to S250.

[0318] In S250, the control circuit 80 resets the actual number of reciprocating strokes to the initial value. In S260, the control circuit 80 changes the target number of reciprocating strokes according to the change operation.

[0319] In S270, the control circuit 80 determines whether a speed change operation has been performed. A speed change operation includes turning on the first switch 71. If no speed change operation has been performed, the process proceeds to S290. If a speed change operation has been performed, the process proceeds to S280. In S280, the control circuit 80 changes the rotation speed band (i.e., changes the maximum rotation speed) according to the speed change operation.

[0320] In S290, the control circuit 80 sets the gas entrainment duration to "non-detection". The control circuit 80 also sets (resets) the gas entrainment duration to zero. After the processing in S290, this process proceeds to S140 (…). Figure 11 ).

[0321] In S110, with the trigger switch 8 turned on, this process proceeds to S130. In S130, the control circuit 80 executes the in-process operation. Details of the in-process operation are as follows... Figure 13 As shown.

[0322] When the control circuit 80 transitions to the operation processing, in S310, it determines whether the gas entrainment persistence state is set to "detect". If the gas entrainment persistence state is not set to "detect", the process proceeds to S320. In S320, the control circuit 80 determines whether the current reciprocating frequency difference is greater than 0. If the reciprocating frequency difference is 0, the control circuit 80, in S410, similarly stops the drive of the motor 20. A reciprocating frequency difference of 0 corresponds to the case where the discharge operation has been performed for the target number of reciprocating frequencies. After S410, the process proceeds to S420.

[0323] In S320, if the difference in the number of reciprocating strokes is greater than 0, the process proceeds to S330. A difference in the number of reciprocating strokes greater than 0 corresponds to the situation where the actual number of reciprocating strokes has not yet reached the target number of reciprocating strokes. In S330, the control circuit 80 drives the motor 20 at a target rotational speed corresponding to the current rotational speed band. That is, the aforementioned speed feedback control is performed.

[0324] In S340, the control circuit 80 determines whether the plunger 50 has performed one reciprocating motion.

[0325] In S350, control circuit 80 performs gas entrainment detection processing. Gas entrainment detection processing is a process used to detect whether gas entrainment has occurred. Details of the gas entrainment detection processing are as follows... Figure 14 As shown.

[0326] When the control circuit 80 is transferred to the gas entrainment detection and processing, in S510, the actual rotational speed of the motor 20 is calculated.

[0327] In S520, the control circuit 80 updates the maximum or minimum value of the actual rotational speed. Regarding the maximum and minimum values ​​of the actual rotational speed, (i) they are reset every time the plunger 50 performs one reciprocating motion, and (ii) after being reset, they are updated every time S520 is executed.

[0328] For example, if the latest actual rotational speed calculated in S510 is greater than the currently maintained maximum value, the maximum value of the actual rotational speed is updated to the latest actual rotational speed. Alternatively, if the latest actual rotational speed is less than the currently maintained minimum value, the minimum value of the actual rotational speed is updated to the latest actual rotational speed. Furthermore, if the latest actual rotational speed is above the currently maintained minimum value and below the maximum value, both the current maximum and minimum values ​​are maintained.

[0329] In S530, the control circuit 80 determines, based on the determination result in S340, whether the plunger 50 has performed one reciprocation. If the plunger 50 has not yet performed one reciprocation, the process proceeds to S540. In S540, the control circuit 80 maintains the current gas entrainment detection state ("detected" or "not detected"). After the processing in S540, the process proceeds to S360. Figure 13 ).

[0330] In S530, after the plunger 50 has reciprocated once, the process proceeds to S550. In S550, the control circuit 80 sets a first threshold. Specifically, the control circuit 80 sets the first threshold based on the target rotational speed, duty cycle, actual rotational speed, or equipment temperature, as described above.

[0331] In S560, the control circuit 80 determines whether the maximum amplitude of the actual rotational speed is greater than the first threshold. The maximum amplitude is the difference between the maximum and minimum values ​​of the currently maintained actual rotational speed. Each time the plunger 50 performs one reciprocating motion, the maximum and minimum values ​​of the actual rotational speed during that reciprocating motion can be obtained through S520. The difference between the maximum and minimum values ​​is the maximum amplitude.

[0332] If the maximum amplitude exceeds the first threshold, the process proceeds to S570. In this case, the control circuit 80 determines that no gas entrainment has occurred. Accordingly, in S570, the control circuit 80 sets the gas entrainment detection state to "non-detection". After the processing in S570, the process proceeds to S590.

[0333] If the maximum amplitude is below the first threshold, the process proceeds to S580. In this case, the control circuit 80 determines that gas entrainment has occurred. Accordingly, in S580, the control circuit 80 sets the gas entrainment detection state to "detect". After the processing in S580, the process proceeds to S590.

[0334] In S590, the control circuit 80 resets the maximum and minimum values ​​of the currently maintained actual rotational speed. The control circuit 80 also resets the determination result of S340, which states that the plunger 50 has completed one reciprocation, and restarts the determination of whether the plunger 50 has completed one reciprocation. Therefore, from the time of this restart, when the plunger 50 has completed one reciprocation, the determination of one reciprocation of the plunger 50 is made again in S340. After the processing in S590, this process proceeds to S360 (…). Figure 13 ).

[0335] In S360, the control circuit 80 determines whether the plunger 50 has reciprocated once, based on the determination result in S340. If the plunger 50 has not reciprocated once, the process proceeds to S420. If the plunger 50 has reciprocated once, the process proceeds to S370.

[0336] In S370, the control circuit 80 determines whether the gas entrainment detection state is set to "detect". If the gas entrainment detection state is set to "detect", that is, if gas entrainment has occurred, this process proceeds to S400. In S400, the control circuit 80 begins the aforementioned notification process, that is, notifying the user that gas entrainment has occurred. After the processing in S400, this process proceeds to S420.

[0337] If, in S370, the gas entrainment detection state is not set to "detect," meaning no gas entrainment occurs, the process proceeds to S380. In S380, the control circuit 80 increments the actual number of reciprocations. That is, it adds "1" to the current actual number of reciprocations. In S390, if the control circuit 80 has performed the notification process, it terminates the notification process. After the processing in S390, the process proceeds to S420.

[0338] When the S370 gas entrainment detection state is set to "detection", the actual number of reciprocating strokes is not incremented and remains at the current actual number of reciprocating strokes. That is, even if the plunger 50 performs one reciprocating stroke during the period when gas entrainment is detected, the actual number of reciprocating strokes will not change.

[0339] If the gas entrainment state is set to "detect" in S310, the process proceeds to S430. In S430, the control circuit 80, as in S210, stops the drive of the motor 20. After the process in S430, the process proceeds to S140. Figure 11 ).

[0340] In S420, control circuit 80 performs continuous decision processing. Details of the continuous decision processing are as follows... Figure 15 As shown. When the control circuit 80 transitions to the continuous determination process, in S610, it determines whether the gas entrainment detection state is set to "detect". If the gas entrainment detection state is not set to "detect", that is, if no gas entrainment occurs, the process transitions to S620.

[0341] In S620, control circuit 80 resets the gas entrainment duration to zero. After the processing in S620, this process proceeds to S140 ( Figure 11 ).

[0342] In S610, when the gas entrainment detection state is set to "detection," that is, when gas entrainment occurs, this process proceeds to S630. In S630, the control circuit 80 accumulates the duration of gas entrainment. That is, it accumulates (adds) the aforementioned count value used for measurement by one.

[0343] In S640, the control circuit 80 determines whether the gas entrainment duration is greater than or equal to a predetermined time (i.e., the count value is greater than or equal to a predetermined value). If the gas entrainment duration is less than the predetermined time, this process proceeds to S140. Figure 11 If the gas entrainment duration exceeds the specified time, this process is transferred to S650.

[0344] In S650, the control circuit 80 sets the gas entrainment persistence state to "detect". That is, it determines that gas entrainment has persisted for a predetermined time or longer. After S650, this process proceeds to S140 ( Figure 11 ).

[0345] In S140, the control circuit 80 calculates (i.e. updates) the difference in the number of reciprocating motions. Specifically, it subtracts the current actual number of reciprocating motions from the current target number of reciprocating motions. Furthermore, it updates the difference in the number of reciprocating motions to the result of this subtraction.

[0346] In S150, the control circuit 80 determines whether the current actual number of reciprocations is zero. If the actual number of reciprocations is not zero, the process proceeds to S160. In this case, in automatic discharge mode, the plunger 50 has moved more than once. Accordingly, in S160, the control circuit 80 displays the current actual number of reciprocations on the set number display screen 75. This allows the user to identify the progress of grease discharge. After the process in S160, the process proceeds to S110.

[0347] In step S150, if the actual number of reciprocations is zero, the process proceeds to step S170. In this case, for example, it can be imagined that trigger 9 has not yet been manually operated, or although trigger 9 has been manually operated, the actual number of reciprocations has not yet reached one reciprocation. Accordingly, in step S170, the control circuit 80 displays the target number of reciprocations on the set number display screen 75. This allows the user to identify the target number of reciprocations. After the processing in step S170, the process proceeds to step S110.

[0348] Here, we will illustrate this schematically. Figures 11-15 processing and Figure 6 The correspondences are as follows: S110, S310, and S320 correspond to the processing based on the motion control unit 91. S210, S330, S410, and S430 correspond to the processing based on the motion control unit 91 and the motor drive control unit 92. S140, S220, S230, S250, and S380 correspond to the processing based on the reciprocating frequency calculation unit 79. S240 and S260 correspond to the processing based on the reciprocating frequency setting unit 83. S270 and S280 correspond to the processing based on the motion mode setting unit 87. S290 and S420 correspond to the processing based on the timing unit 88. S340 and S360 correspond to the processing based on the reciprocating determination unit 89. S350 corresponds to the processing based on the gas entrainment detection unit 90. S370 corresponds to the processing based on the reciprocating frequency calculation unit 79 and the display control unit 85. S150~S170, S390, S400 correspond to: processing based on display control unit 85.

[0349] 2-2. Second Implementation Method

[0350] In the second embodiment, other examples of the gas entrainment detection process will be described. The electric lubricant supply device of this second embodiment is configured to be essentially the same as the electric lubricant supply device 1 of the first embodiment, except for the gas entrainment detection process. Hereinafter, configurations different from those of the first embodiment will be described.

[0351] In this second embodiment, the gas entrainment detection unit 90 detects the generation of gas entrainment based on the differential value of the actual rotational speed. The differential value can be calculated arbitrarily. For example, the differential value can be calculated based on the time differential. That is, the change in the actual rotational speed per predetermined unit time can also be calculated as a differential value. Alternatively, for example, the differential value can be calculated based on the rotation angle differential. That is, the change in the actual rotational speed of the motor 20 (specifically, the rotor 22) during a predetermined unit rotation angle can also be calculated as a differential value.

[0352] In the state of gas entrainment, the variation in actual rotational speed is relatively small. This small variation in actual rotational speed corresponds to a small absolute value of its derivative. Therefore, gas entrainment can be detected based on the maximum value of the absolute value of the derivative within a specified driving period. For example, if the maximum value of the absolute value of the derivative is below a second threshold, it can be determined that gas entrainment has occurred.

[0353] However, the difference in plunger load caused by the presence or absence of gas entrainment will be more pronounced, especially when the plunger 50 descends (i.e., during the discharge action).

[0354] When the plunger 50 descends without any gas mixing in, the plunger 50 receives a relatively large load, which results in a significant decrease in its actual rotational speed. That is, a large deceleration will occur.

[0355] On the other hand, when the plunger 50 descends, if gas gets mixed in, the plunger load will be relatively smaller, and therefore the actual reduction in rotational speed will also be relatively smaller. That is, the deceleration will be relatively small.

[0356] Therefore, in this second embodiment, gas entrainment is detected in particular by focusing on the deceleration (i.e., the absolute value of the derivative of the actual rotational speed when the plunger descends). Specifically, gas entrainment is determined to have occurred when the maximum value of the deceleration is below a second threshold. That is, the aforementioned requirement in this second embodiment includes: the maximum value of the deceleration during the specified drive period is below the second threshold.

[0357] The second threshold can also be defined as a value that is less than the third expected range and greater than the fourth expected range. The third expected range is the range of expected deceleration under normal conditions. The fourth expected range is the range of expected deceleration under gas entrainment conditions. The second threshold can also be determined arbitrarily.

[0358] The second threshold can also be a constant value. In this second embodiment, the second threshold, like the first threshold in the first embodiment, is variably set according to the operating state of the electric lubricant supply 1.

[0359] Specifically, the second threshold can also be set based on the target rotation speed. More specifically, the second threshold can be set such that, in the low-speed to medium-speed band, the second threshold increases as the target rotation speed increases. Alternatively, the second threshold can be set such that, in the high-speed band, the second threshold decreases as the target rotation speed increases. For example, it is also possible to... Figure 10 The vertical axis in the table is rewritten as the second threshold.

[0360] Alternatively, for example, the second threshold can also be set according to various operating states such as the actual rotational speed, duty cycle, or equipment temperature, just like the first threshold. Specifically, the second threshold can be set according to the actual rotational speed using the same method as the setting method corresponding to the target rotational speed. For example, it is also possible to... Figure 10 The horizontal axis is rewritten as the actual rotation speed, and the vertical axis is rewritten as the second threshold. Alternatively, the second threshold can be set based on the duty cycle using the same method as setting the first threshold corresponding to the duty cycle. For example, it is also possible to... Figure 10 The horizontal axis is rewritten as the duty cycle, and the vertical axis is rewritten as the second threshold. Alternatively, the second threshold can be set based on the equipment temperature using the same method as setting the first threshold based on equipment temperature. Specifically, the second threshold can also be set such that the second threshold decreases as the temperature of the grease increases.

[0361] To achieve such gas entrainment detection, in this second embodiment, in Figure 13 The S350, replacing Figure 14 Perform gas entrainment detection and processing Figure 16 The gas entrainment detection and processing shown.

[0362] Figure 16 Gas entrainment detection and processing Figure 14 The differences between the gas entrainment detection process and the previous one are: (i) S521 is performed instead of S520, (ii) S551 is performed instead of S550, (iii) S561 is performed instead of S560, and (iv) S591 is performed instead of S590.

[0363] In S521, the control circuit 80 calculates the derivative of the actual rotational speed calculated in S510. The control circuit 80 also updates the maximum deceleration value based on the calculated derivative. Regarding the maximum deceleration value, (i) it is reset every time the piston 50 performs one reciprocating motion, and (ii) after being reset, it is updated every time S521 is executed. For example, if the latest derivative calculated in S521 is negative, and the absolute value of this derivative (i.e., the deceleration) is greater than the currently maintained maximum deceleration value, the maximum deceleration value is updated to this latest deceleration.

[0364] In S551, the control circuit 80 sets a second threshold. Specifically, the control circuit 80 sets the second threshold based on the target rotation speed, duty cycle, actual rotation speed, or device temperature, as described above.

[0365] In S561, the control circuit 80 determines whether the maximum value of the currently maintained deceleration is greater than a second threshold. If the maximum value of the deceleration is greater than the second threshold, the process proceeds to S570. In this case, the control circuit 80 determines that no gas entrainment has occurred. If the maximum value of the deceleration is less than the second threshold, the process proceeds to S580. In this case, the control circuit 80 determines that gas entrainment has occurred.

[0366] In S591, the control circuit 80 resets the maximum value of the currently maintained deceleration. Similar to S590 in the first embodiment, the control circuit 80 also resets the determination result of S340, which indicates that the plunger 50 has completed one reciprocation, and restarts the determination of whether the plunger 50 has completed one reciprocation.

[0367] 2-3. Third Implementation Method

[0368] In the third embodiment, another example of the gas entrainment detection process will be described. The electric lubricant supply device of this third embodiment is configured to be essentially the same as the electric lubricant supply device 1 of the first embodiment, except for the gas entrainment detection process. Hereinafter, a configuration different from the first embodiment will be described.

[0369] In this third embodiment, the gas entrainment detection unit 90 detects the occurrence of gas entrainment based on the actual rotational speed itself. As mentioned above, for the same target rotational speed, the actual rotational speed under normal conditions can be lower than the actual rotational speed under gas entrainment conditions. Therefore, in this third embodiment, if the minimum actual rotational speed during a specified driving period is a third threshold or higher, it is determined that gas entrainment has occurred. That is, the aforementioned specified condition in this third embodiment includes: the minimum actual rotational speed during a specified driving period is a third threshold or higher.

[0370] The third threshold can be a constant value, but in this third embodiment, like the first and second thresholds, it is changed according to the operating state of the electric lubricant supply 1.

[0371] Specifically, the third threshold can also be set based on the target rotation speed. More specifically, the third threshold can also be set as a value less than the target rotation speed. For example, whenever the target rotation speed changes, the third threshold can be set through a prescribed calculation based on the changed target rotation speed. The prescribed calculation can also include, for example, setting a speed that is lower than the target rotation speed by a prescribed speed or a prescribed percentage as the third threshold. The prescribed speed and the prescribed percentage can also be changed based on the target rotation speed. The third threshold can be variably set based on the actual rotation speed or duty cycle. Specifically, the third threshold can be (i) set substantially based on the target rotation speed, and (ii) adjusted (i.e., changed) based on the actual rotation speed or duty cycle.

[0372] The third threshold can also vary depending on the device temperature. The third threshold can also be set as follows: for example, (i) it is set basically based on the target rotation speed, and (ii) the third threshold increases as the device temperature increases.

[0373] To achieve such gas entrainment detection, in this third embodiment, in Figure 13 The S350, replacing Figure 14 Perform gas entrainment detection and processing Figure 17 The gas entrainment detection and processing shown.

[0374] Figure 17 Gas entrainment detection and processing Figure 14 The differences between the gas entrainment detection process and the previous one are: (i) S522 is performed instead of S520, (ii) S552 is performed instead of S550, (iii) S562 is performed instead of S560, and (iv) S592 is performed instead of S590.

[0375] In S522, the control circuit 80 updates the minimum value of the actual rotational speed based on the actual rotational speed calculated in S510. Regarding the minimum value of the actual rotational speed, (i) it is reset every time the plunger 50 performs one reciprocating motion, and (ii) after being reset, it is updated every time S522 is executed. For example, if the latest actual rotational speed calculated in S510 is less than the currently maintained minimum value, the minimum value of the actual rotational speed is updated to that latest actual rotational speed.

[0376] In S552, the control circuit 80 sets a third threshold. Specifically, as described above, the control circuit 80 sets the third threshold based on various operating states, such as target rotation speed or device temperature.

[0377] In S562, the control circuit 80 determines whether the minimum value of the currently maintained actual rotational speed is less than a third threshold. If the minimum value of the actual rotational speed is less than the third threshold, the process proceeds to S570. In this case, the control circuit 80 determines that no gas entrainment has occurred. If the minimum value of the actual rotational speed is greater than or equal to the third threshold, the process proceeds to S580. In this case, the control circuit 80 determines that gas entrainment has occurred.

[0378] In S592, the control circuit 80 resets the minimum value of the currently maintained actual rotational speed. Similar to S590 in the first embodiment, the control circuit 80 also resets the determination result of S340, which indicates that the plunger 50 has completed one reciprocation, and restarts the determination of whether the plunger 50 has completed one reciprocation.

[0379] 2-4. Other implementation methods

[0380] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications can be made to implement it.

[0381] 2-4-1. In the above embodiment, gas entrainment is detected based on the amplitude of the actual rotational speed, the differential value of the actual rotational speed, or the actual rotational speed itself. However, gas entrainment can also be detected based on any actual motion quantity. The actual motion quantity can also be any quantity (e.g., a physical quantity) representing the actual rotational speed or the magnitude of the change in the actual rotational speed.

[0382] 2-4-2. The first threshold can also be set based on an operating state different from the operating states (target rotational speed, duty cycle, actual rotational speed, or equipment temperature) exemplified in the above embodiments. The first threshold can also be set based on any operating state of the electric lubricant supply 1. The first threshold can also be set based on a load-related operating state. A load-related operating state is an operating state that affects the actual rotational speed. That is, the actual rotational speed may change depending on changes in the load-related operating state.

[0383] For example, the operating state can be the battery voltage. That is, the first threshold can also be set based on the magnitude of the battery voltage. Assuming that even if the duty cycle is constant, when the battery voltage decreases, the power supplied to the motor 20 also decreases, and the actual rotational speed also decreases. Therefore, for example, the first threshold can be set in a way that the first threshold decreases as the battery voltage decreases. To achieve this, the electric lubricant supply 1 can also include a voltage detector that detects the battery voltage. The voltage detector can also be configured to: (i) receive the battery voltage, and (ii) output a voltage detection signal corresponding to the magnitude of its voltage to the control circuit 80. The control circuit 80 can also (i) obtain the magnitude of the battery voltage based on the voltage detection signal from the voltage detector, and (ii) set the first threshold based on the obtained magnitude.

[0384] The second and third thresholds can also be variably set based on various other action states.

[0385] 2-4-3. In the first embodiment, the first threshold may also be set based on the average value of a numerical value representing the operating state (hereinafter referred to as a "state quantity"). The average value is, in other words, a smoothed value. Examples of state quantities include: target rotational speed, duty cycle, actual rotational speed, or device temperature. The average value of the state quantity can also be calculated using any method. For example, an interval average or moving average of the state quantity can be calculated. In this case, the first threshold can be set based on the calculated interval average or moving average. The calculation interval for the interval average and moving average can also be arbitrarily determined. The calculation interval can, for example, be the aforementioned predetermined driving period (i.e., the period during which the plunger 50 performs one reciprocating motion).

[0386] Alternatively, a low-pass filter can be included for the input state quantity. The low-pass filter removes components above a specified frequency from the time-series input state quantity and outputs the state quantity after removing these components. A first threshold can be set based on the output value of the low-pass filter. The low-pass filter can be implemented by executing a program for the low-pass filter using the CPU 80A.

[0387] The second threshold of the second embodiment and the third threshold of the third embodiment can also be set based on the averaged state quantity, just like the first threshold.

[0388] 2-4-4. In the above embodiments, examples of the prescribed procedures to be performed when gas entrainment is detected include notification processing and temporary suspension of the accumulation of actual reciprocating times. However, in the event of gas entrainment, other prescribed procedures may be performed in addition to these procedures, or alternatively.

[0389] 2-4-5. In the above embodiment, the reciprocating determination unit 89 determines one reciprocation of the plunger 50 based on the first to third rotation signals. However, one reciprocation of the plunger 50 can also be determined using various methods. For example, a sensor capable of detecting the rotation of the crankshaft 46 can be provided near the crankshaft 46. One reciprocation of the plunger 50 can be determined based on the detection result of this sensor. Alternatively, for example, a sensor that detects the position of the plunger 50 or the slider 48 can be provided near the plunger 50 or the slider 48. One reciprocation of the plunger 50 can be determined based on the detection result of this sensor.

[0390] 2-4-6. The technology of this invention is applicable to all reciprocating pumps. For example, this invention is also applicable to diaphragm pumps. Furthermore, it is not limited to reciprocating pumps, but is applicable to all types of pumps capable of discharging lubricant.

[0391] 2-4-7. The electric lubricant supply 1 may be configured to discharge a lubricant other than grease. The lubricant may be, for example, a semi-solid or a liquid (e.g., lubricating oil).

[0392] 2-4-8. The rotation speed band, operating mode, and target number of reciprocations can also be set using methods different from those described in the above embodiments. For example, a user interface (e.g., button, knob, lever, touch panel, etc.) with a different form than the second and third switches 72 and 73 used for setting the operating mode can also be provided. Moreover, the operating mode can be switched by operating this user interface. The same applies to the target number of reciprocations. The rotation speed band can also be switched by operating a user interface (e.g., button, knob, lever, touch panel, etc.) with a different form than the first switch 71.

[0393] 2-4-9. In the above embodiment, the rotational state (i.e., rotational position and actual rotational speed) of the motor 20 is obtained using the first to third rotational position sensors 28A to 28C. However, the rotational state can also be obtained using other methods. For example, so-called sensorless control can also be used in the electric lubricant supply 1. That is, the rotational state of the motor can also be obtained based on the induced voltage generated by the three coils 24 of the motor 20 respectively.

[0394] 2-5. Supplement

[0395] In the above embodiments, multiple functions performed by one component can be accomplished by multiple components, and one function performed by one component can be accomplished by multiple components. Furthermore, multiple functions performed by multiple components can be accomplished by one component, and one function performed by multiple components can be accomplished by one component. Additionally, a portion of the configuration in the above embodiments can be omitted. Furthermore, at least a portion of the configuration in one of the above embodiments can be added to, or substituted for, the configuration in another of the above embodiments.

Claims

1. An electric lubricant supply device, characterized in that, The electric lubricant supply device includes: motor; A pump configured to be driven by the motor and to discharge lubricant; A drive circuit configured to drive the motor; and A control circuit configured to rotate the motor by means of the drive circuit, and to perform a specified process based on (i) the motor being driven and (ii) the actual amount of motor action meeting a specified condition, wherein the actual amount of motor action represents the actual rotational speed of the motor or the magnitude of the variation of the actual rotational speed, and the specified condition is a condition indicating that gas has been mixed into the pump.

2. The electric lubricant supply device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The actual motion amount includes the amplitude of the actual rotational speed. The specified requirement includes that the maximum value of the amplitude during the specified driving period is below the first threshold.

3. The electric lubricant supply device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The actual motion amount includes the absolute value of the derivative of the actual rotational speed. The specified requirement includes that the maximum absolute value during the specified driving period is below the second threshold.

4. The electric lubricant supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The actual amount of motion includes the actual rotational speed. The specified requirement includes that the minimum actual rotational speed during the specified driving period is above the third threshold.

5. The electric lubricant supply device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The control circuit is configured to change the first threshold according to the operating state of the electric lubricant supply.

6. The electric lubricant supply device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The control circuit is configured to change the second threshold according to the operating state of the electric lubricant supply.

7. The electric lubricant supply device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The control circuit is configured to change the third threshold according to the operating state of the electric lubricant supply.

8. The electric lubricant supply device according to any one of claims 5 to 7, characterized in that, The control circuit is configured to: (i) set a target rotational speed as a target value for the rotational speed of the motor, and (ii) control the drive circuit in a manner that makes the actual rotational speed consistent with the target rotational speed. The action state includes the target rotation speed.

9. The electric lubricant supply device according to any one of claims 5 to 7, characterized in that, The control circuit is configured to output a pulse width modulation signal with a duty cycle to the drive circuit to control the drive circuit. The drive circuit is configured to: (i) receive the pulse width modulation signal, and (ii) drive the motor according to the duty cycle of the received pulse width modulation signal. The action state includes the duty cycle.

10. The electric lubricant supply device according to any one of claims 5 to 7, characterized in that, The action state includes the actual rotation speed.

11. The electric lubricant supply device according to any one of claims 5 to 7, characterized in that, The control circuit is configured to acquire the temperature of the electric lubricant supply. The operating state includes the temperature.

12. The electric lubricant supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that, The electric lubricant supply includes a notification unit configured to notify the pump of information indicating that the gas has been mixed in. The specified processing includes reporting the information via the notification unit.

13. The electric lubricant supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that, The pump is configured to repeatedly perform a predetermined discharge action to discharge the lubricant. The control circuit is configured as follows: During the driving process of the motor, the actual number of discharges is accumulated each time the pump performs the prescribed discharge action. The actual number of discharges is the number of times the prescribed discharge action has been performed. The motor stops because the actual number of discharges has reached the target number of discharges. The specified procedure includes temporarily halting the accumulation of the actual number of discharges.

14. The electric lubricant supply device according to claim 13, characterized in that, The control circuit is configured to: after temporarily stopping the accumulation of the actual number of discharges, restart the accumulation of the actual number of discharges based on the fact that the actual amount of action no longer meets the specified requirements.

15. The electric lubricant supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that, The pump includes: a chamber configured to contain the lubricant; a discharge port communicating with the chamber; and a plunger located within the chamber. The plunger is configured to: (i) reciprocate within the chamber based on the rotational force of the motor, and (ii) thereby discharge the lubricant within the chamber from the outlet.

16. The electric lubricant supply device according to any one of claims 2 to 11, characterized in that, The pump includes: a chamber configured to contain the lubricant; a discharge port communicating with the chamber; and a plunger located within the chamber. The plunger is configured to: (i) reciprocate within the chamber based on the rotational force of the motor, and (ii) thereby discharge the lubricant within the chamber from the outlet. The specified driving period includes the period during which the plunger reciprocates once within the chamber.

17. The electric lubricant supply device according to claim 13 or 14, characterized in that, The pump includes: a chamber configured to contain the lubricant; a discharge port communicating with the chamber; and a plunger located within the chamber. The plunger is configured to: (i) reciprocate within the chamber based on the rotational force of the motor, and (ii) thereby discharge the lubricant within the chamber from the outlet. The specified discharge action includes the plunger reciprocating once within the chamber.

18. The electric lubricant supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 17, characterized in that, The control circuit is configured to stop the motor during the driving process, based on the fact that the actual amount of motion meets the specified requirements for a specified time.

19. The electric lubricant supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 18, characterized in that, The control circuit is configured to detect, in accordance with the specified conditions being met during the driving of the motor, the situation where the gas has been mixed into the pump and / or the situation where the pump wants to discharge the gas.

20. A method for discharging lubricant from an electric lubricant supply device, characterized in that, The method comprises the following steps: The electric lubricant supply pump is driven by the motor of the electric lubricant supply, and the pump is configured to discharge the lubricant. as well as During the driving process of the motor, a specified process is performed in the electric lubricant supply device based on the fact that the actual amount of motor action has met the specified requirements. The actual amount of motor action represents the actual rotational speed of the motor or the magnitude of the change in the actual rotational speed. The specified requirements are the requirements indicating that gas has been mixed into the pump.

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