power tools

Abstract

This invention provides a power tool. The power tool has a motor, a spindle, and an inner housing. The motor has a motor shaft configured to rotate about a motor rotation axis in the longitudinal direction of the power tool. The spindle is configured to drive a tip tool to oscillate about a drive axis orthogonal to the motor rotation axis by power from the motor. The inner housing extends in the longitudinal direction. The inner housing includes a motor housing, a front housing, a rear housing, and a resilient connecting portion. The front housing is connected to the front end of the motor housing and houses the spindle. The rear housing has a battery mounting portion for installing a battery. The resilient connecting portion extends in the longitudinal direction and resiliently connects the rear end of the motor housing to the front end of the rear housing. Accordingly, the power tool is easy to hold, improving its portability.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a power tool. Background Technology

[0002] A known power tool is configured such that a tool mounted on the top of a spindle is driven by a motor to oscillate within a predetermined angle range, thereby performing machining operations on a workpiece. For example, Japanese Patent Publication No. 2018-167391 discloses a power tool in which the motor and spindle are housed in the front end of an inner housing. In this power tool, the spindle and motor are arranged in the front end of the inner housing such that the drive shaft of the spindle and the output shaft of the motor are parallel to each other. Summary of the Invention

[0003] However, in the prior art, since the spindle and motor are housed at the front end of the power tool, the front end of the power tool may become large, making it difficult for the user to visually identify the top of the tool.

[0004] In addition, when the tip of a power tool becomes larger, it may make it difficult for the user to hold the tip, thus reducing workability.

[0005] A non-limiting object of the present invention is to provide a power tool that is easy to hold while preventing the front end of the power tool from becoming too large.

[0006] According to a non-limiting aspect of the present invention, a power tool is provided. The power tool has a motor, a spindle, and an inner housing. The motor has a motor shaft configured to rotate about a motor rotation axis defining the longitudinal direction of the power tool. The spindle is configured to drive a tip tool to oscillate about a drive axis by power from the motor, wherein the drive axis is orthogonal to the motor rotation axis and defines the vertical direction of the power tool. The inner housing extends along the longitudinal direction. The inner housing includes a motor housing, a front housing, a rear housing, and a resilient connecting portion. The motor housing houses the motor. The front housing is connected to the front end of the motor housing and houses the spindle. The rear housing has a battery mounting portion for mounting a battery. The resilient connecting portion extends along the longitudinal direction and resiliently connects the rear end of the motor housing to the front end of the rear housing.

[0007] According to this method, the front housing of the power tool can be miniaturized compared to the case where the motor's rotation axis is housed parallel to the drive axis. Therefore, the front end of the power tool can be miniaturized while still having a vibration-damping structure. Furthermore, since the motor is housed in the motor housing with its rotation axis orthogonal to the drive axis, the power tool can be thinner and longer in the longitudinal direction compared to the case where the motor's rotation axis is housed parallel to the drive axis. Therefore, the power tool is easier to hold, thereby improving its portability.

[0008] According to another non-limiting aspect of the present invention, a power tool is provided. The power tool has a motor, a spindle, and an inner housing. The spindle is configured to drive a tip tool to oscillate about a drive axis by power from the motor, wherein the drive axis defines the vertical direction of the power tool. The inner housing houses the motor and the spindle. The inner housing includes a motor housing, a front housing, a rear housing, and a resilient connection. The motor housing houses the motor. The front housing is connected to the front end of the motor housing and houses the spindle. The rear housing has a battery mounting portion capable of housing a battery. The resilient connection extends in a direction orthogonal to the drive axis and resiliently connects the rear end of the motor housing to the front end of the rear housing. The resilient connection has a small-diameter portion. The small-diameter portion is disposed in a region located inside the contour of the motor housing when the power tool is viewed from the front. The small-diameter portion occupies more than half of the total length of the resilient connection in its extending direction.

[0009] According to this method, the front housing of the power tool can be miniaturized compared to the case where the motor rotation shaft is housed parallel to the drive shaft. Therefore, the front end of the power tool can be miniaturized. Furthermore, by providing a small-diameter portion, the part of the inner housing with the elastic connection portion can be made thinner. Therefore, the power tool can be made thinner, thereby improving its portability and ease of handling. Attached Figure Description

[0010] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing the external structure of the vibration tool according to the first embodiment.

[0011] Figure 2 It is a cross-sectional view showing the internal structure of the vibrating tool.

[0012] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 The cross-sectional view at position III-III is shown.

[0013] Figure 4 It is a three-dimensional diagram showing the external structure of the inner shell.

[0014] Figure 5 It is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of the drive mechanism.

[0015] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 The sectional view shown at position VI-VI.

[0016] Figure 7 This is an explanatory diagram showing the structure of the elastic connection when viewed from the side of a vibrating tool.

[0017] Figure 8 This is an explanatory diagram showing the structure of the elastic connection when viewed from above.

[0018] Figure 9 yes Figure 7 and Figure 8 The cross-sectional view at position IX-IX is shown.

[0019] Figure 10 This is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration structure of the switch toggle switch and the switch.

[0020] Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view showing the internal structure of the vibration tool according to the second embodiment.

[0021] Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional view showing the internal structure of the vibration tool according to the third embodiment.

[0022] Figure 13 This is an explanatory diagram showing the external structure of the vibration tool according to the fourth embodiment.

[0023] Figure 14 This is an explanatory diagram showing the external structure of a micro switch.

[0024] Figure 15 It means Figure 14 A cross-sectional view at the XV-XV position shown.

[0025] Figure 16 This is a cross-sectional view showing the internal structure of the vibration tool according to the fourth embodiment.

[0026] [Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures] 1: Housing; 2: Outer shell; 3: Inner shell; 4: Controller; 5: Drive mechanism; 6: Locking mechanism; 21: Front end; 23: Rear end; 25, 25d: Holding part; 25R: Holding recess; 29, 29b, 29c: Switch; 31: Front housing; 32: Motor housing; 32L: Profile; 33: Rear housing; 37: Elastic connection part; 37D: Reduction diameter part; 37F: Front end; 37R: Rear end; 38: Metal housing; 39: Resin housing; 51: Spindle; 52: Clamping shaft; 53: Motor; 55: Transmission mechanism Structure; 61: Operating lever; 63: Compression coil spring; 65: Bushing; 67: Clamping component; 71: Front elastic component; 72: Connecting component; 76: Rear elastic component; 80: Switch unit; 81: First button; 82: Second button; 83: Pressing part; 84: First switch; 85: Second switch; 86: Switch housing; 87: Dial; 88: Wire; 89: Circuit board; 91: Top tool; 93: Battery; 100, 100b, 100c, 100d: Vibration tool; 290: Switch toggle knob; 290b 290c: Toggle switch; 291: Trigger switch; 294: Switch operating lever; 295: Coil spring; 296: Plunger; 298: Pressing part; 299: Unlocking lever; 321: Cylindrical part; 322: Extension part; 331: Battery mounting part; 332: Controller housing part; 332F: Front surface; 333: Protrusion; 334: Screw; 352: Protrusion; 354: Screw; 371: Elastic component; 381: Part 1; 382: Part 2; 383: Recess; 511: Tool mounting part; 512, 513: Bearings ; 521: Clamping head; 523: Groove; 531: Output shaft; 532: Stator; 533: Rotor; 551: Eccentric shaft; 552: Arm; 553: Connecting arm; 554: Annular part; 555: Drive bearing; 652: Spring; 671: Protrusion; 710: Through hole; CP: Midpoint; DX: Drive axis; HX: Central axis; LA: Total length; LD: Large diameter part; LM1: First maximum distance; LM2: Second maximum distance; LS: Shortest distance; MD: Minimum diameter part; MX: Rotation axis; SD: Small diameter part. Detailed Implementation

[0027] The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, representing representative and non-limiting examples. This detailed description is merely intended to illustrate preferred embodiments for carrying out the invention to those skilled in the art, and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Furthermore, to provide further improved apparatus, methods of manufacturing, and methods of use, the additional features and technical solutions disclosed below may be used separately from or in conjunction with other features and technical solutions.

[0028] Furthermore, the features and combinations of processes disclosed in the detailed description below are not, in the broadest sense, essential for carrying out the invention, but are described only to specifically illustrate representative examples of the invention. Moreover, the various features of the representative examples described above and below, as well as the various features described in the independent and dependent technical solutions, do not necessarily need to be combined in the same way as the specific examples described herein, or in the order listed, to provide additional and useful embodiments of the invention.

[0029] All features described in this specification and / or technical solution are intended to be disclosed individually and independently of the structure of the features described in the embodiments and / or technical solutions as a limitation on the original disclosure of this application and the specific matters claimed. Furthermore, all descriptions of numerical ranges and groupings or clusters are intended to disclose their intermediate structures as a limitation on the original disclosure of this application and the specific matters claimed.

[0030] In a non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the resilient connection may have a small-diameter portion disposed in a region that is located inside the contour of the motor housing when the power tool is viewed from the rear. The small-diameter portion may occupy more than half of the total length of the resilient connection in the longitudinal direction.

[0031] According to this embodiment, by providing a small-diameter portion, the portion of the inner housing with the elastic connecting part can be made thinner. Therefore, it is possible to suppress or prevent the enlargement of power tools.

[0032] Based on or alternative to the above embodiments, the elastic connection portion may include: (i) a portion connected to the front end of the motor housing; and (ii) a reduced-diameter portion disposed at a position rearward of the front end, wherein the reduced-diameter portion is configured such that a first maximum distance is shorter than a second maximum distance, wherein the first maximum distance refers to the distance from the elastic connection portion to the motor rotation axis; and the second maximum distance refers to the distance from the elastic connection portion located at the front end to the motor rotation axis.

[0033] According to this embodiment, the elastic connection portion can be configured such that its diameter decreases from the front end to the rear. Therefore, a power tool with high vibration resistance and high portability can be provided.

[0034] Based on, or alternative to, the above embodiments, the power tool may further include an operating section and a switch, wherein the operating section is configured to be operated by a user; and the switch responds to the operation of the operating section to switch the motor on and off. The switch may be positioned radially outward from the resilient connection portion about the motor's rotation axis.

[0035] According to this embodiment, compared to a structure where the switch is disposed inside the elastic connection portion, the elastic connection portion can be miniaturized. Therefore, it is possible to suppress or prevent the enlargement of power tools.

[0036] Based on or alternative to the above embodiments, in the vertical direction, when the end side of the spindle on which the top tool is mounted is defined as the lower side of the power tool and the opposite side of the end side is defined as the upper side, the operating part can be configured at a position higher than the rotation axis of the motor.

[0037] According to this embodiment, the user can easily visually confirm the operating part from above the power tool, thereby making it easy to operate the operating part.

[0038] Based on or instead of the above embodiments, the switch may be configured at a position higher than the rotation axis of the motor.

[0039] According to this embodiment, the distance between the operating part and the switch can be shortened, thereby enabling the miniaturization of the components connecting the operating part and the switch.

[0040] Based on, or alternative to, the above-described embodiments, the operating part can be positioned forward of the midpoint of the inner housing in the front-rear direction. According to this embodiment, the user can easily visually confirm the operating part even while holding a power tool, thereby facilitating its operation.

[0041] Based on or instead of the above embodiments, the operating part may be a switch that can slide along the front-back direction.

[0042] Based on or instead of the above embodiments, in the vertical direction, when the end side of the spindle on which the top tool is mounted is defined as the lower side of the power tool and the opposite side of the end side is defined as the upper side, the operating part can be configured at a position lower than the rotation axis of the motor.

[0043] According to this embodiment, the structure of the upper side of the power tool can be simplified, making it easier to hold the upper side of the power tool.

[0044] Based on or instead of the above embodiments, the switch may be configured at a position lower than the rotation axis of the motor.

[0045] According to this embodiment, the distance between the operating part and the switch can be shortened, thereby enabling the miniaturization of the components connecting the operating part and the switch.

[0046] Based on or instead of the above embodiments, the operating unit may be a trigger switch or toggle switch that can be pressed by the user.

[0047] Based on, or alternative to, the above embodiments, the power tool may further have an outer housing extending along the front-rear direction and housing the inner housing. At least a portion of the outer housing may be configured such that: (i) in the front-rear direction, it is disposed between the front housing and the rear housing; (ii) in the radial direction centered on the motor rotation axis, it is disposed at a position further outward than the elastic connection portion.

[0048] According to this embodiment, the elastic connection portion can be protected by the outer shell. Furthermore, by making the area where the elastic connection portion is disposed a single-layer shell structure, the area where the elastic connection portion is disposed within the outer shell can be made thinner.

[0049] A. Implementation Method 1: A1. Simplified structure of the vibrating tool 100: The general structure of the vibratory tool 100 according to the first embodiment will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The vibratory tool 100 is an example of a power tool that performs machining operations on a workpiece (not shown) by driving a tip tool 91 to oscillate. The tip tool 91 is, for example, a blade, scraper, grinding pad, polishing pad, etc. The user can select a tip tool 91 suitable for the required machining operations such as cutting, peeling, grinding, and polishing, and install it on the vibratory tool 100 to perform the machining operation. In this embodiment, an example of a blade, which is a tip tool 91, is used to describe the vibratory tool 100.

[0050] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the vibratory tool 100 has an elongated housing 1. In this embodiment, the housing 1 is configured as a so-called double-layered vibration-damping housing. The housing 1 includes an elongated outer shell 2 that forms the outer contour of the vibratory tool 100 and an elongated inner shell 3 that is housed within the outer shell 2.

[0051] like Figure 2As shown, the inner housing 3 houses a spindle 51, a motor 53, and the like. The motor 53 is arranged such that the rotation axis MX of its output shaft 531 is parallel to the extending direction of the housing 1. The spindle 51 is arranged such that its drive axis DX is orthogonal to the extending direction of the housing 1. One end of the spindle 51 in the direction of the drive axis DX protrudes from the housing 1 and is exposed to the outside. This part allows for the attachment and removal of the tip tool 91. At the other end in the extending direction of the housing 1, a battery 93 capable of supplying power to the motor 53 is detachably installed. The vibrating tool 100 is configured such that the spindle 51 reciprocates within a predetermined angle range around the drive axis DX by the power of the motor 53, thereby causing the tip tool 91 to oscillate in an oscillating plane orthogonal to the drive axis DX.

[0052] In the following description, for ease of explanation, regarding the orientation of the vibrating tool 100, the extension direction of the drive axis DX of the spindle 51 is defined as the up-down direction, one end of the spindle 51 where the tip tool 91 is mounted is defined as the lower side, and the opposite side of the end of the spindle 51 where the tip tool 91 is mounted is defined as the upper side. Furthermore, the direction corresponding to the rotation axis MX of the output shaft 531 is defined as the front-back direction, one end of the inner housing 3 housing the spindle 51 is defined as the front side, and the other end where the battery 93 is mounted is defined as the rear side. The direction orthogonal to the up-down and front-back directions is defined as the left-right direction. When the illustrated blade is mounted as the tip tool 91, the swing direction of the tip tool 91 approximately corresponds to the left-right direction.

[0053] A2. Structure of outer shell 2: like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the outer shell 2 houses the inner shell 3. Figure 1 As shown, in this embodiment, the outer shell 2 includes a front end portion 21, a rear end portion 23, and a central portion 25 connecting the front end portion 21 and the rear end portion 23.

[0054] The front end portion 21 is generally cylindrical in shape, extending vertically. The front end portion 21 houses the front housing 31 of the inner housing 3. An operating lever 61 is provided at the upper front end portion of the front end portion 21, which is used to actuate the locking mechanism 6.

[0055] The rear end portion 23 is formed as a cylindrical shape that expands rearward. In other words, the rear end portion 23 is formed such that its cross-sectional shape, orthogonal to the axis of rotation MX, increases towards the rear. The rear end portion 23 mainly houses the rear housing 33 of the inner housing 3. The upper portion of the dial 87 is held at the upper end of the rear end portion 23 in a state that exposes to the outside. The dial 87 is configured as an operating device for accepting the user's rotational operation to steplessly set the speed of the motor 53.

[0056] A central portion 25 is formed between the front end portion 21 and the rear end portion 23. The central portion 25 is formed as a cylindrical shape with approximately equal diameter and extends linearly in the front-rear direction. The central portion 25 is positioned radially outward of the elastic connecting portion 37 about the rotation axis MX, and primarily accommodates the elastic connecting portion 37. In this embodiment, as... Figure 2 As shown, the central part 25 is disposed between the front housing 31 and the rear housing 33 in the front-rear direction, and in addition to accommodating the elastic connecting part 37, it also accommodates the motor housing 32.

[0057] The central portion 25 functions as a grip for the user. The central portion 25 is tapered compared to the front portion 21 and the rear portion 23 for easier gripping. Hereinafter, the central portion 25 will also be referred to as the "grip 25". A switch knob 290 is provided on the upper surface of the central portion 25; this switch knob 290 is configured to be manually operated by the user.

[0058] In this embodiment, the extending direction of the gripping portion 25 is aligned with the extending direction of the inner housing 3, and the central axis of the gripping portion 25 is aligned with the central axis of the inner housing 3. The "central axis of the gripping portion 25" refers to a straight line based on the center of the cross-sectional shape of the gripping portion 25. The "cross-sectional shape of the gripping portion 25" refers to the shape of the gripping portion 25 in a cross-section orthogonal to the front-rear direction. The "center of the cross-sectional shape" includes the graphic center of the cross-sectional shape or the centroid of the cross-sectional shape. For example, the centroid of the cross-section of the gripping portion 25 can be defined as the center of the cross-sectional shape of the gripping portion 25. In this embodiment, the central axis of the gripping portion 25 and the inner housing 3 is approximately aligned with the rotation axis MX. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the central axis of the gripping portion 25 and the inner housing 3 is aligned with the rotation axis MX. Alternatively, the central axis of the gripping portion 25 can be defined as the straight line connecting the center of the cross-sectional shape of the front end of the gripping portion 25 and the center of the cross-sectional shape of the rear end of the gripping portion 25. In addition, the center of the cross-sectional shape of the gripping part 25 can be extracted from multiple locations, and the straight line derived from the multiple extracted centers by using linear regression analysis or the like can be defined as the central axis of the gripping part 25.

[0059] A3. Structure of inner shell 3: like Figures 2 to 4 As shown, the inner housing 3 has a front housing 31, a motor housing 32, a rear housing 33, and an elastic connecting portion 37. The front housing 31 and the motor housing 32 in the inner housing 3 are formed by connecting a metal housing 38 and a resin housing 39, which are formed separately from each other.

[0060] like Figure 2 and Figure 4As shown, the metal housing 38 has a generally L-shaped form, comprising a first portion 381 extending vertically and a second portion 382 extending longitudinally. The first portion 381 houses the main shaft 51 and functions as the front housing 31. The second portion 382 houses the transmission mechanism 55, which will be described later. Additionally, the second portion 382 houses the front end of the output shaft 531 of the motor 53 and functions as part of the motor housing 32. The front end of the motor housing 32 can be defined, for example, by the position of the front end of the output shaft 531 of the motor 53. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the front end of the motor housing 32 is approximately at the same position as the front end of the gripping portion 25 of the outer casing 2 in the longitudinal direction.

[0061] The resin housing 39 is made of synthetic resin. The resin housing 39 extends in the front-to-back direction. The front end of the resin housing 39 is connected to the rear end of the second part 382 of the metal housing 38 by screws (not shown). The resin housing 39 houses the motor 53 in a substantially complete manner and functions as a motor housing 32.

[0062] The motor housing 32 includes a cylindrical portion 321 that houses the motor 53 and an extension portion 322 extending rearward from the rear end of the cylindrical portion 321. The extension portion 322 has a generally cuboid shape. Wires, connection terminals, etc., for connecting the motor 53 and the controller 4 (described later) are disposed on the extension portion 322. Figure 4 As shown, the extension 322 has a protrusion 352 that protrudes radially outward about the axis of rotation MX.

[0063] The entire motor housing 32 is housed within the gripping portion 25 of the outer casing 2. In this embodiment, the motor 53 is housed within the motor housing 32 such that the rotation axis MX of the output shaft 531 of the motor 53 is orthogonal to the drive axis DX of the main shaft 51. Therefore, compared to the case where the motor 53 is housed with the rotation axis MX parallel to the drive axis DX, the front housing 31 is smaller in size than the portion that does not house the motor 53. Thus, the front end portion 21 of the vibrating tool 100 can be miniaturized. Furthermore, by making the motor housing 32 elongated in the front-rear direction, the motor housing 32 can be housed within the gripping portion 25, while suppressing or preventing the gripping portion 25 from becoming thicker. Therefore, compared to the case where the motor 53 is housed with the rotation axis MX parallel to the drive axis DX, the gripping portion 25 can be thinner and longer in the front-rear direction. Thus, the gripping portion 25 can be easily gripped, thereby improving the portability of the vibrating tool 100.

[0064] like Figures 2 to 4As shown, the rear housing 33 is the rear end of the inner housing 3 and is formed into a generally rectangular cylindrical shape. In this embodiment, a battery mounting portion 331 is provided on the rear side of the rear housing 33, and the battery 93 can be slidably engaged with the battery mounting portion 331. The battery mounting portion 331 is provided with power receiving terminals and the like that can be electrically connected to the power supply terminals of the battery 93.

[0065] A controller housing 332 is provided on the front side of the rear housing 33, which houses the controller 4. The controller 4 includes a CPU, a storage device such as RAM or ROM, which serves as a processor for controlling the drive of the motor 53, and a circuit board equipped with switching elements that operate based on control signals from the CPU.

[0066] The elastic connection portion 37 extends in the front-rear direction, elastically connecting the rear end of the motor housing 32 to the front end of the rear housing 33. Specifically, the front end portion 37F of the elastic connection portion 37 is connected to the motor housing 32, and the rear end portion 37R is connected to the rear housing 33. The elastic member 371 can effectively suppress the transmission of vibration from the front housing 31 to the rear housing 33.

[0067] The elastic connection portion 37 includes a plurality of elastic members 371, which connect the motor housing 32 and the rear housing 33 in the front-rear direction. The plurality of elastic members 371 are spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction centered on the rotation axis MX of the output shaft 531 of the motor 53 (or the central axis of the inner housing 3). In this embodiment, four elastic members 371 are provided that are spaced apart from each other in the up-down and left-right directions.

[0068] The elastic components 371 are each formed into strips that are easily elastically deformable (easily bent). Therefore, the elastic components 371 are configured to be more easily elastically deformable than other parts of the inner shell 3. Furthermore, the elastic components 371 are each made of a material having a lower modulus of elasticity than other parts of the inner shell 3. For example, while other parts of the inner shell 3 are formed of glass fiber reinforced polyamide, the elastic components 371 are formed of polyacetal without reinforcing fibers. Moreover, the material of the elastic components 371 is not limited to this example. For example, when other parts are formed of glass fiber reinforced polyamide, the elastic components 371 may also be formed of polycarbonate or ABS resin.

[0069] A4. Structure of drive mechanism 5: like Figure 5 As shown, a drive mechanism 5 and a locking mechanism 6 are provided on the front housing 31 and motor housing 32 of the inner housing 3. The drive mechanism 5 is the mechanism that drives the tip tool 91 to swing. The drive mechanism 5 includes a spindle 51, a motor 53 and a transmission mechanism 55.

[0070] The spindle 51 is an elongated component with a generally cylindrical shape. In this embodiment, the spindle 51 is housed in the front housing 31 and supported by two bearings 512 and 513 in a manner that allows it to rotate about the drive axis DX. The spindle 51 has a tool mounting portion 511 at its lower end exposed from the housing 1, which is configured to allow the attachment and detachment of a tip tool 91. In this embodiment, the tip tool 91 is held between the tool mounting portion 511 and the clamping head 521 of the clamping shaft 52.

[0071] The motor 53 is housed in the motor housing 32. The motor 53 is a brushless DC motor, having a stator 532, a rotor 533 disposed radially inside the stator 532, and an output shaft 531 that rotates integrally with the rotor 533. The rotation axis MX of the output shaft 531 of the motor 53 extends in a manner orthogonal to the drive axis DX of the main shaft 51 and parallel to the longitudinal direction and the extension direction of the inner housing 3.

[0072] like Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the transmission mechanism 55 is arranged across the front housing 31 and the motor housing 32. The transmission mechanism 55 is configured to transmit the rotational motion of the motor 53 to the main shaft 51, causing the main shaft 51 to reciprocate within a predetermined angular range about the drive axis DX. The transmission mechanism 55 includes an eccentric shaft 551, a connecting arm 553, and a drive bearing 555.

[0073] An eccentric shaft 551 is connected to the front end of the output shaft 531 of the motor 53. The eccentric shaft 551 extends forward from the front end of the output shaft 531 at a position offset radially outward from the rotation axis MX. With the rotation of the output shaft 531, the eccentric shaft 551 rotates about the rotation axis MX at the position offset radially outward from the rotation axis MX.

[0074] Drive bearing 555 is mounted on the outer periphery of eccentric shaft 551. The outer peripheral surface of drive bearing 555 has a curved shape, which is a shape in which the central portion in the front-rear direction bulges outward radially. Drive bearing 555 is sometimes also referred to as spherical bearing.

[0075] The connecting arm 553 is a component that connects the drive bearing 555 and the main shaft 51. Specifically, one end of the connecting arm 553 is fixed to the main shaft 51, and the other end is connected to the drive bearing 555. The connecting arm 553 reciprocates around the main shaft 51 by means of the rotational motion of the eccentric shaft 551.

[0076] An annular portion 554 is formed at the front end of the connecting arm 553, and a pair of arms 552 are formed at the rear end of the connecting arm 553. The annular portion 554 is fixed to the outer periphery of the upper end of the main shaft 51. The pair of arms 552 are configured to abut against the outer periphery of the drive bearing 555. The drive bearing 555 is clamped in the left-right direction by the pair of arms 552, and the connecting arm 553 is connected to the eccentric shaft 551.

[0077] When the drive motor 53 is activated, the eccentric shaft 551 rotates integrally with the output shaft 531. As the eccentric shaft 551 rotates around the rotation axis MX, the drive bearing 555 also moves around the rotation axis MX. During the eccentric rotation of the eccentric shaft 551, the eccentric shaft 551 rotates around the rotation axis MX. Through the eccentric rotation of the eccentric shaft 551, the pair of arms 552 of the connecting arm 553 rotate while swinging left and right.

[0078] The spindle 51 transmits the left-right oscillation of a pair of arms 552 through the annular portion 554, reciprocating around the drive axis DX. Accordingly, the tip tool 91, fixed to the tool mounting portion 511 of the spindle 51, oscillates around the drive axis DX. The angle at which the tip tool 91 oscillates around the drive axis DX is, for example, about 1 to 5 degrees. Furthermore, one cycle of rotational motion of the eccentric shaft 551 is converted into an oscillating motion that causes the tip tool 91 to reciprocate once.

[0079] A5. Structure of locking mechanism 6: like Figure 5 As shown, the locking mechanism 6 is configured to lock the clamping shaft 52 in a clamping position, meaning that the tip tool 91 can be clamped between the clamping shaft 52 and the main shaft 51. The clamping shaft 52 has a generally cylindrical shape and is an elongated component in the vertical direction. The clamping shaft 52 is configured to be coaxially inserted into the main shaft 51. A clamping head 521 is formed at the lower end of the clamping shaft 52, and a groove 523 is formed at the upper end of the clamping shaft 52.

[0080] The locking mechanism 6 includes a compression coil spring 63, a bushing 65, and a pair of clamping members 67. The bushing 65 is formed in a ring shape and is exerted upward force by the compression coil spring 63 disposed within the main shaft 51. The pair of clamping members 67 are disposed inside the bushing 65 when they are exerted downward force by the spring 652. Protrusions 671 are formed on the opposing surfaces of the pair of clamping members 67.

[0081] The locking mechanism 6 is configured to operate in conjunction with the user's manual operation of the operating lever 61. When the operating lever 61 is in the locked position, the bushing 65 is pushed upward by the compression coil spring 63. The clamping member 67 moves radially inward along the inclined surface formed by the inner circumferential surface of the bushing 65. As a result, the protrusion 671 of the clamping member 67 engages with the groove 523 of the clamping shaft 52, and the clamping shaft 52 is clamped by the clamping member 67. When the clamping shaft 52 is in this state, pushed upward by the compression coil spring 63 and locked in the clamping position, the tip tool 91 is clamped between the tool mounting part 511 and the clamping head 521 and fixed to the spindle 51.

[0082] When the operating lever 61 is in the unlocked position, the contact between the inclined surface of the bushing 65 and the inclined surface of the clamping member 67 is released, and the clamping member 67 becomes capable of moving radially outward. The locking of the clamping shaft 52 is released, allowing the user to pull the clamping shaft 52 out of the spindle 51, thereby enabling the removal and installation of the top tool 91.

[0083] A6. Elastic connection structure between outer shell 2 and inner shell 3: like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the outer shell 2 and the inner shell 3 are connected by elastic members at multiple locations in the front-rear direction. More specifically, two front elastic members 71 are provided between the front end 21 of the outer shell 2 and the front shell 31 of the inner shell 3. Two rear elastic members 76 are provided between the rear end 23 of the outer shell 2 and the rear shell 33 of the inner shell 3. The front elastic members 71 and the rear elastic members 76 are formed, for example, of elastomeric materials such as polyurethane foam or rubber.

[0084] like Figure 4 As shown, the front elastic member 71 has a generally annular shape and is embedded in a generally circular recess 383 formed on the outer surface of the front housing 31. The front elastic member 71 and the recess 383 are arranged on the left and right sides of the front housing 31 in a left-right symmetrical manner.

[0085] like Figure 6As shown, the front elastic member 71 is connected to the connecting member 72 formed on the outer shell 2. The connecting member 72 is a portion that protrudes from the inner periphery of the outer shell 2 towards the inner shell 3. The connecting member 72 is embedded in the through hole 710 of the front elastic member 71, and the entire outer periphery of the connecting member 72 is covered by the front elastic member 71. In addition, a gap is provided between the front end of the connecting member 72 and the front shell 31. With this structure, the connecting member 72 is configured to be able to move relative to the front elastic member 71 while compressing it in any of the vertical, horizontal, or lateral directions. Thus, the front end 21 of the outer shell 2 is connected to the front shell 31 of the inner shell 3 via the front elastic member 71 in a state that allows relative movement in all directions. Similarly, the rear end 23 of the outer shell 2 is also connected to the rear shell 33 of the inner shell 3 via the rear elastic member 76 in a state that allows relative movement in all directions. With the above structure, when the driving tip tool 91 swings, the vibration transmission from the inner shell 3 to the outer shell 2 can be effectively reduced.

[0086] In the vibration tool 100 of this embodiment, the elastic connection portion 37 connecting the motor housing 32 and the rear housing 33 further suppresses the transmission of vibration from the front housing 31 to the rear housing 33. By forming the elastic connection portion 37 with an elastic force lower than that of the motor housing 32 and the rear housing 33, the transmission of vibration from the motor housing 32 to the rear housing 33 can be suppressed more effectively.

[0087] Vibrations transmitted from the front housing 31 to the rear housing 33 are reduced by the elastic connection 37 compared to vibrations generated in the front housing 31. Furthermore, as described above, the rear housing 33 is connected to the outer housing 2 via the rear elastic member 76. Therefore, compared to the case where the outer housing 2 is connected to a part other than the rear housing 33, such as the motor housing 32, vibrations transmitted from the inner housing 3 to the outer housing 2 can be reduced.

[0088] A7. Configuration structure of the elastic connecting part 37: like Figure 4 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the elastic connection portion 37 extends in the front-rear direction, elastically connecting the rear end of the motor housing 32 to the front end of the rear housing 33. Furthermore, Figure 7 and Figure 8 The illustration of battery 93 is omitted.

[0089] like Figure 7 and Figure 8As shown, the front end portion 37F of the elastic connecting portion 37 is connected to the rear end portion of the motor housing 32. More specifically, the front end portion 37F is connected to the protrusion 352 of the extension 322 of the motor housing 32 by a screw 354. Alternatively, the front end portion 37F may be connected to the cylindrical portion 321 instead of the extension 322. The elastic connecting portion 37 is not limited to being formed separately from the motor housing 32; it may also be formed integrally with the motor housing 32. In this case, the elastic connecting portion 37 can be connected to the motor housing 32 without using a screw 354.

[0090] The rear end portion 37R of the elastic connecting portion 37 is connected to the rear housing 33. More specifically, the rear end portion 37R is connected to the protrusion 333 protruding forward from the controller receiving portion 332 in the rear housing 33 by a screw 334. Alternatively, the rear end portion 37R may be connected to the front surface 332F of the controller receiving portion 332 instead of the protrusion 333. The elastic connecting portion 37 is not limited to being formed separately from the rear housing 33, but may also be formed integrally with the rear housing 33. In this case, the elastic connecting portion 37 can be connected to the rear housing 33 without using the screw 334.

[0091] In this embodiment, when the vibrating tool 100 is viewed from the front-rear direction, the elastic connecting portion 37, except for the rear end portion 37R, is disposed in a region that is inside the contour 32L of the motor housing 32. The portion of the elastic connecting portion 37 disposed in a region that is inside the contour 32L of the motor housing 32 is also referred to as the "small diameter portion".

[0092] like Figure 7 As shown, in the left-right direction, the elastic connecting portion 37, except for the rear end portion 37R, is disposed in a region inner to both ends of the cylindrical portion 321 of the motor housing 32. Specifically, it is configured such that, in the left-right direction, the distance WF from the rotation axis MX to the right end of the front end portion 37F is shorter than the distance MW from the rotation axis MX to the right end of the motor housing 32. Conversely, the distance WR from the rotation axis MX to the right end of the rear end portion 37R is greater than the distance WF and also greater than the distance MW. The portion of the elastic connecting portion 37 disposed in a region outer to the outline 32L of the motor housing 32 is also referred to as the "large diameter portion". Furthermore, Figure 7 For ease of technical understanding, the diagram of wire 88 has been omitted.

[0093] like Figure 7 As shown, the rear end 37R of the elastic connection 37 is a large-diameter portion LD, and the portion near the front of the rear end 37R from the front end 37F is a small-diameter portion SD. The small-diameter portion SD occupies more than half of the total length LA of the elastic connection 37 in the front-to-rear direction from the front end 37F to the rear end 37R. Thus, most of the elastic member 371 is located in a region that is more inward than the outline 32L of the motor housing 32. Furthermore, the structure on the left side of the rotation axis MX is the same as described above.

[0094] like Figure 7 As shown, in this embodiment, the elastic connection portion 37 has a minimum diameter portion MD immediately in front of the rear end portion 37R. The minimum diameter portion MD is the part of the elastic connection portion 37 where the distance from the rotation axis MX to the elastic member 371 is the smallest. The minimum diameter portion MD is the so-called necked portion in the elastic connection portion 37.

[0095] like Figure 8 As shown, in the vertical direction, the front end portion 37F and the rear end portion 37R of the elastic connection portion 37 are positioned in a region closer to the inner sides of the two ends of the cylindrical portion 321. Specifically, the configuration is such that, in the vertical direction, the distance HF from the rotation axis MX to the upper end of the front end portion 37F is shorter than the distance MH from the rotation axis MX to the upper end of the motor housing 32. In other words, when the vibrating tool 100 is viewed from the side, the distance from the rotation axis MX to the rear end portion 37R of the elastic connection portion 37 is closer than the distance from the rotation axis MX to the front end portion 37F of the elastic connection portion 37. Furthermore, the distance HR from the rotation axis MX to the upper end of the rear end portion 37R is shorter than the distance MH, and also shorter than the distance HF. The structure below the rotation axis MX is also the same as described above.

[0096] exist Figure 9 The image shows the motor housing 32 and the elastic connection portion 37 when viewed from the rear of the vibrating tool 100. Furthermore, for ease of understanding, the outline 32L of the motor housing 32 is schematically shown with dashed lines. Figure 9 As shown, the elastic connection portion 37, except for the rear end portion 37R, is disposed in a region that is closer to the outline 32L of the motor housing 32. In other words, the portion of the elastic connection portion 37, excluding the rear end portion 37R, is configured as a small-diameter portion SD.

[0097] like Figure 9 As shown in the middle circle D1, the maximum distance from the elastic connection 37 to the rotation axis MX at any position rearward from the front end 37F is defined as the first maximum distance LM1. Furthermore, in Figure 9 The example illustrates the first maximum distance LM1 at the smallest diameter portion MD. Additionally, as shown in circle D2, the second maximum distance LM2 is defined as the maximum distance from the elastic connection portion 37 to the rotation axis MX at the front end portion 37F. Furthermore, since the distances from the four elastic members 371 to the rotation axis MX are approximately equal, only one elastic member 371 is used for illustration.

[0098] like Figure 8 As shown, in this embodiment, the elastic connecting portion 37 also has a reduced diameter portion 37D. This reduced diameter portion 37D refers to the portion where the first maximum distance LM1 is shorter than the second maximum distance LM2. Figure 9In the example, the reduced diameter portion 37D is the part of the elastic connecting portion 37 that is positioned inside the circle D2 shown by the dashed line. That is, the elastic connecting portion 37 is configured such that its diameter is reduced from the front end portion 37F towards the rear end portion 37R. The portion of the elastic connecting portion 37 other than the large diameter portion LD at the rear end portion 37R is configured as the reduced diameter portion 37D. With this structure, compared to the case where the elastic connecting portion 37 expands its diameter rearward, the grip portion 25 can be made thinner. Therefore, a vibration tool 100 with high vibration damping performance and high portability can be provided.

[0099] Furthermore, the shortest distance LS from the rotation axis MX to the elastic member 371 at the minimum diameter MD is configured to be less than half of the second maximum distance LM2 from the rotation axis MX to the elastic member 371 at the front end 37F. By setting the minimum diameter MD, the strength of the elastic connection 37 can be improved while making the elastic connection 37 thinner.

[0100] A8. Configuration structure of switch toggle 290 and switch 29: like Figure 10 As shown, a switch selector knob 290 is provided directly above the motor 53 on the upper surface of the grip 25. This switch selector knob 290 is configured to be manually operated by the user. The switch selector knob 290 is configured to slide in the front-back direction by manual operation. A switch operating lever 291 extending in the front-back direction is connected to the switch selector knob 290. The switch operating lever 291 is disposed between the inner housing 3 and the outer housing 2. In response to the operation of the switch selector knob 290, the switch operating lever 291 moves between an on position and an off position, switching the switch 29 on and off. The switch 29 is a so-called micro switch.

[0101] The user installs the top tool 91 corresponding to the required machining operation into the tool mounting section 511 (see reference). Figure 5 By holding the handle 25, the switch selector 290 is switched to the ON position. Accordingly, the switch 29 is activated via the switch operating lever 291. In response to the activation of the switch 29, the controller 4 begins to drive the motor 53. As the motor 53 is driven, the spindle 51 reciprocates around the drive axis DX within a specified angle range, causing the tip tool 91 to swing approximately left to right. The user can perform machining operations on the vibrating tool 100 by pressing the tip tool 91 against the workpiece. Furthermore, the controller 4 can also set the rotational speed of the motor 53 based on the resistance value set via the dial 87.

[0102] like Figure 10As shown, in the vibration tool 100 of this embodiment, the switch selector 290 is provided in the upper half of the housing 2. More specifically, the switch selector 290 is positioned above the rotation axis MX of the motor 53. Therefore, the user can easily visually confirm the switch selector 290 from above the vibration tool 100, thereby facilitating the operation of the switch selector 290.

[0103] The switch knob 290 is located in the front half of the vibrating tool 100. More specifically, the switch knob 290 is positioned forward of the midpoint of the inner housing 3 in the front-rear direction. The midpoint of the inner housing 3 in the front-rear direction refers to, for example... Figure 2 As shown at the midpoint CP, this is the midpoint between the front end 3F of the front housing 31 and the rear end 3R of the rear housing 33. With this structure, the user can easily visually confirm the switch selector 290 even when holding the handle 25, thus making it easy to operate the switch selector 290.

[0104] like Figure 10 As shown, switch 29 is located in the upper half of housing 2. More specifically, switch 29 is positioned above the rotation axis MX of motor 53. This structure shortens the distance between switch selector 290 and switch 29, miniaturizes components such as switch lever 291 connecting switch selector 290 and switch 29, and suppresses or prevents the grip portion 25 from becoming too thick.

[0105] In this embodiment, the switch 29 is positioned radially outward from the elastic connection portion 37, centered on the rotation axis MX of the motor 53. With this structure, compared to a structure where the switch 29 is positioned inside the elastic connection portion 37, the elastic connection portion 37 can be miniaturized by forming a small diameter portion SD, a reduced diameter portion 37D, etc. Therefore, it is possible to suppress or prevent the grip portion 25 from becoming thicker. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the switch 29 is positioned directly above the reduced diameter portion 37D (more specifically, the minimum diameter portion MD) in the elastic connection portion 37. By utilizing the space formed within the grip portion 25 due to the small diameter portion SD and the reduced diameter portion 37D of the elastic connection portion 37, the switch 29 can be efficiently positioned.

[0106] As explained above, in the vibrating tool 100 of this embodiment, the motor 53 is housed in the motor housing 32 such that the rotation axis MX of the output shaft 531 of the motor 53 is orthogonal to the drive axis DX of the main shaft 51. Therefore, compared to the case where the motor 53 is housed with its rotation axis MX parallel to the drive axis DX, the front housing 31 can be miniaturized, thereby miniaturizing the front end portion 21 of the vibrating tool 100. Furthermore, by making the motor housing 32 elongated in the front-rear direction, it is possible to suppress or prevent the gripping portion 25 from becoming thicker while housing the motor housing 32 within it. Therefore, compared to the case where the motor 53 is housed with its rotation axis MX parallel to the drive axis DX, the gripping portion 25 can be thinner and longer in the front-rear direction. Therefore, the gripping portion 25 can be easily gripped, thereby improving the portability of the vibrating tool 100.

[0107] The resilient connecting portion 37 has a small-diameter portion SD, which, when viewed from the rear, is positioned in a region more inward than the contour 32L of the motor housing 32. The small-diameter portion SD occupies more than half of the total length LA of the resilient connecting portion 37 in the front-rear direction. By providing the small-diameter portion SD, the portion of the inner housing 3 containing the resilient connecting portion 37 can be made thinner. Therefore, the grip portion 25 can be made thinner, thereby improving the portability of the vibrating tool 100.

[0108] The elastic connection portion 37 also has a reduced diameter portion 37D, which is formed such that the first maximum distance LM1 is shorter than the second maximum distance LM2, and is configured to reduce the diameter from the front end portion 37F to the rear end portion 37R. Therefore, a vibration tool 100 with high vibration damping performance and high portability can be provided.

[0109] B. Second Implementation Method: like Figure 11 As shown, the vibration tool 100b according to the second embodiment differs from the vibration tool 100 according to the first embodiment in that it has a switch 29b instead of a switch 29, and a toggle switch 290b instead of a switch selector 290; otherwise, the structures are the same.

[0110] The toggle switch 290b is located in the lower half of the housing 2. More specifically, the toggle switch 290b is positioned below the rotation axis MX of the motor 53. Figure 11 In this example, the toggle switch 290b is located at the lower end of the grip 25. The toggle switch 290b is forced outward by the coil spring 294 and is typically positioned in the stop position where the motor 53 is stopped.

[0111] The toggle switch 290b is provided with a pressing part 296 and an unlocking lever 298. When the user overcomes the force of the coil spring 294 and presses the toggle switch 290b into the grip part 25, the toggle switch 290b is moved towards the start position for starting the motor 53. In the start position, the pressing part 296 presses the plunger 295 of the switch 29b.

[0112] The unlock lever 298 typically restricts the displacement of the toggle switch 290b towards the active position. The unlock lever 298 is configured to rotate, allowing the toggle switch 290b to move towards the active position when rotated manually by the user.

[0113] The switch 29b is positioned differently from the switch 29 shown in the first embodiment. In this embodiment, as... Figure 11 As shown, switch 29b is located in the lower half of housing 2. More specifically, switch 29b is positioned below the rotation axis MX of motor 53. This structure shortens the distance from toggle switch 290b to switch 29b, miniaturizes the components connecting toggle switch 290b and switch 29b, and thus suppresses or prevents the grip portion 25 from becoming too thick.

[0114] In this embodiment, the switch 29b is positioned radially outward of the resilient connection portion 37, centered on the rotation axis MX of the motor 53. This configuration allows for a smaller resilient connection portion 37 compared to a configuration where the switch 29b is positioned inside the resilient connection portion 37. Therefore, while configuring the resilient connection portion 37, it is possible to suppress or prevent the gripping portion 25 from becoming too thick. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the switch 29b is positioned directly below the reduced-diameter portion 37D (more specifically, the minimum diameter portion MD) in the resilient connection portion 37. By utilizing the space formed on the outer side of the resilient connection portion 37 due to the reduced-diameter portion 37D, the switch 29b can be configured efficiently.

[0115] C. Third implementation method: like Figure 12 As shown, the vibration tool 100c according to the third embodiment differs from the vibration tool 100 of the first embodiment in that it has a switch 29c instead of switch 29, and a trigger switch 290c instead of switch change button 290. Otherwise, the structure is the same.

[0116] The trigger switch 290c is located in the lower half of the housing 2. More specifically, the trigger switch 290c is positioned below the rotation axis MX of the motor 53. Figure 12In this example, the trigger switch 290c is located at the lower end of the grip 25. The trigger switch 290c is normally positioned in the stop position where the motor 53 stops, by the force exerted by the coil spring 294 on the outside of the grip 25.

[0117] When the user overcomes the force of the coil spring 294 and presses the trigger switch 290c into the grip 25, the trigger switch 290c moves towards the start position for starting the motor 53. In the start position, the pressing part 296 presses the plunger 295 of the switch 29c.

[0118] Switch 29c is positioned differently from switch 29. For example... Figure 12 As shown, switch 29c is positioned lower than the rotation axis MX of motor 53. This structure shortens the distance from trigger switch 290c to switch 29c, thereby simplifying the structure within the grip section 25.

[0119] In this embodiment, the switch 29c is positioned radially outward of the resilient connection portion 37, about the rotation axis MX of the motor 53. Therefore, compared to a structure where the switch 29c is positioned inside the resilient connection portion 37, the resilient connection portion 37 can be miniaturized, thereby suppressing or preventing the grip portion 25 from becoming thicker. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the switch 29c is positioned lower than the resilient connection portion 37, more specifically, directly below the front end portion 37F.

[0120] D. Fourth implementation method: like Figure 13 and Figure 14 As shown, the vibration tool 100d according to the fourth embodiment differs from the vibration tool 100 of the first embodiment in that it has a switch unit 80 instead of a switch change button 290 and a switch 29, and a grip portion 25d instead of a grip portion 25. Otherwise, the structure is the same.

[0121] like Figure 13 As shown, the gripping portion 25d differs from the gripping portion 25 shown in the first embodiment in that it has a gripping recess 25R. The gripping recess 25R is a portion with a reduced diameter compared to the other portions of the gripping portion 25d.

[0122] D1. Structure of switch unit 80: The switching unit 80 includes at least one push-button switch. Figure 14In this example, the switch unit 80 includes two push-button switches, namely a first button 81 and a second button 82. A push-button switch is a device that switches the on and off states of components such as the motor 53 included in the vibrating tool 100d by allowing a user to press a button-type operating part. Push-button switches include micro switches, momentary push-button switches, rocker switches (sometimes also called seesaw switches), diaphragm switches, etc. The push-button operating part does not include the aforementioned switch selector 290, toggle switch 290b, and trigger switch 290c. In this embodiment, a micro switch will be used as an example for explanation.

[0123] like Figure 15 As shown, the switch unit 80 includes a first button 81, a second button 82, a pressing part 83, a first switch 84, a second switch 85, a wire 88, and a circuit board 89. These components are housed in a switch housing 86.

[0124] The first switch 84 and the second switch 85 are mounted on the circuit board 89. Furthermore, the first switch 84 and the second switch 85 are, for example, momentary push-button switches, which are activated only when pressed. The circuit board 89 is electrically connected to the controller 4 via wire 88.

[0125] The first button 81 and the second button 82 protrude from the switch housing 86 to the outside, and are configured to be pressable from the outside of the vibrating tool 100d toward the inner housing 3. In this embodiment, the first button 81 and the second button 82 are arranged adjacent to each other in the left-right direction.

[0126] The pressing part 83 is a resin plunger. When the first button 81 is pressed down, the pressing part 83 is pressed downward within the switch housing 86, and the first switch 84 is pressed. By pressing the first switch 84, a signal for performing the function assigned to the first switch 84 is output to the controller 4 via the circuit board 89 and the wire 88.

[0127] Similarly, when the second button 82 is pressed down, the pressing part 83 is pressed down inside the switch housing 86, and the second switch 85 is pressed. By pressing the second switch 85, a signal for performing the function assigned to the second switch 85 is output to the controller 4 via the circuit board 89 and the wire 88.

[0128] The first switch 84 and the second switch 85 can be assigned the power on and off of any function achievable by the vibration tool 100d. In this embodiment, the function of switching the motor 53 on and off (driving and stopping) is assigned to the first switch 84. The function of switching, for example, the power on and off (lighting on and off) of an illumination device (not shown) provided on the vibration tool 100d is assigned to the second switch 85. However, this is not a limitation; for example, the function of a safety device, which allows the vibration tool 100d to start by simultaneously pressing the first switch 84 and the second switch 85, can also be assigned. In addition, when one switch capable of switching the motor 53 on and off malfunctions, the other switch can supplement the function of that switch. In this case, for example, the function of auxiliary switching the motor 53 on and off can be assigned to another switch. Thus, according to this embodiment, by providing multiple switches, the user can easily enable the vibration tool 100d to perform multiple functions.

[0129] D2. Configuration structure of switch unit 80: like Figure 16 As shown, in the vibration tool 100d of this embodiment, the switching unit 80 is configured in a manner having the following characteristics.

[0130] (1) Multiple push-button switches, namely the first button 81, the second button 82, the first switch 84 and the second switch 85, are centrally located in one part as a switch unit 80. Therefore, compared with the case where multiple push-button switches are arranged in multiple parts, the number of parts in the housing 1 can be reduced, thereby enabling the housing 1 to be miniaturized.

[0131] Furthermore, in the vibration tool 100d of this embodiment, by using a push-button switch, the switch and operating part are concentrated in one location, thus reducing the area where the operating part and switch are located compared to a structure where the operating part is provided in multiple locations. Additionally, the push-button switch does not use a switch operating lever or the like. Therefore, compared to an operating part using a switch toggle button, components such as switch operating levers can be omitted, thereby reducing the number of components within the grip 25d. Consequently, a portion of the grip 25d can be made thinner to form a gripping recess 25R, thereby improving the portability of the vibration tool 100d.

[0132] (2) The switch unit 80 is positioned above the rotation axis MX of the motor 53 (the central axis HX of the inner housing 3). Therefore, the user can easily visually identify the first button 81 and the second button 82 from above, and thus easily operate the first button 81 and the second button 82.

[0133] (3) such as Figure 16As shown, the switch unit 80 is positioned forward of the midpoint CP of the inner housing 3 in the front-rear direction. With this structure, the user can easily visually confirm the switch unit 80 even when holding the grip 25d, thereby easily operating the first button 81 and the second button 82.

[0134] (4) The switch unit 80 is disposed on the outside of the motor housing 32 in the radial direction centered on the rotation axis MX. Compared with the case where the switch unit 80 is disposed on the outside of a component that is further back than the motor housing 32, the gripping part 25d can be formed over a larger range in the front-rear direction, thereby improving the portability of the vibrating tool 100d.

[0135] (5) The switch unit 80 is positioned rearward from the front housing 31. Compared to the case where the switch unit 80 is positioned on the front housing 31, the first button 81 and the second button 82 can be positioned away from the workpiece and the top tool 91. Therefore, the operability of the first button 81 and the second button 82 can be improved. However, the switch unit 80 can also be positioned on the outside of the front housing 31. In this case, the gripping portion 25d can be formed over a larger range in the front-rear direction.

[0136] (6) For example Figure 16 As shown, the wire 88 is disposed between the inner housing 3 and the outer housing 2. More specifically, the wire 88 extending from the switching unit 80 is disposed in the space between the outer surface of the motor housing 32 and the inner surface of the gripping part 25d within the inner housing 3. The wire 88 is disposed in the space formed between the plurality of elastic members 371 and is electrically connected to the controller 4. By utilizing the space formed by the vibration-damping housing with a double-layer structure, the wire 88 can be disposed efficiently. Furthermore, although not shown in the figure, the power line for inputting the signal for driving the motor 53 to the motor 53 is electrically connected from the controller 4 to the motor 53 via the extension part 322.

[0137] As explained above, the vibration tool 100d of this embodiment has a double-layered vibration-damping housing, which includes an inner housing 3 and an outer housing 2 that houses the inner housing 3. Furthermore, the vibration tool 100d has a push-button switch that responds to manual operation by the user to switch the motor 53 on and off. By using a push-button switch as the operating part for switching the motor 53 on and off, the area where the operating part and switch are located can be reduced compared to a structure where the operating part is located in multiple places. In addition, components such as switch operating levers can be omitted, and the number of components within the housing 1 can be reduced compared to an operating part using a switch toggle button. Therefore, a vibration tool 100d with high vibration damping performance and suppressing the large size caused by the switch structure can be provided.

[0138] In the vibratory tool 100d, the wire 88 that electrically connects the switching unit 80 to the motor 53 is positioned between the inner housing 3 and the outer housing 2. By utilizing the space formed by the vibration-damping housing with its double-layer structure, the wire 88 can be positioned efficiently.

[0139] The following illustrates the correspondence between the structural elements (features) of the above embodiments and the structural elements (features) of the present invention or technical solution. However, each structural element of the embodiments is merely an example and is not intended to limit the structural elements of the present invention or technical solution.

[0140] Vibration tools 100, 100b, 100c, and 100d are examples of "power tools". The rotating axis MX is an example of a "motor rotating axis". The output shaft 531 is an example of a "motor shaft". The drive axis DX is an example of a "drive axis". The inner housing 3 and the outer housing 2 are examples of "inner housing" and "outer housing". The motor housing 32, the front housing 31, and the rear housing 33 are examples of "motor housing", "front housing", and "rear housing". The elastic connection 37 and the elastic component 371 are examples of "elastic connection". The small diameter portion SD is an example of a "small diameter portion". The reduced diameter portion 37D is an example of a "reduced diameter portion". The switch selector 290, toggle switch 290b, trigger switch 290c, first button 81, and second button 82 are examples of "operating parts". Switches 29, 29b, 29c, first switch 84, and second switch 85 are examples of "switches".

[0141] Furthermore, the power tools involved in this invention are not limited to the vibratory tools 100, 100b, 100c, and 100d of the above embodiments. For example, modifications to the following non-limiting examples can be made. In addition, at least one of these modifications can be combined with at least one of the vibratory tools 100, 100b, 100c, and 100d of the embodiments and the features described in the technical solutions.

[0142] (E1) In the above embodiments, an example is shown where the elastic connection portion 37 has four strip-shaped elastic members 371. In contrast, the number of elastic members 371 can be one, or it can be any number of two or more. When there is only one elastic member 371, for example, it can be one of the four elastic members 371 shown in the embodiments, or it can be an elastic member 371 that is generally cylindrical in shape surrounding the axis of rotation MX.

[0143] In view of the spirit of the present invention and the above embodiments, the following methods are constructed. At least one of the following methods may be used in combination with the features of the embodiments and their variations or at least one of the features described in the various technical solutions.

[0144] [Method 1] is further configured such that a minimum diameter portion has a minimum distance from the motor rotating shaft to the elastic connection portion, and the shortest distance from the motor rotating shaft to the minimum diameter portion is less than half of the second maximum distance.

[0145] According to this method, by setting a minimum diameter section, the flexible connecting part can be made thinner, thereby making the housing thinner. Therefore, by making the handle thinner, a power tool that is easy for the user to hold and highly usable can be provided.

[0146] [Method 2] The power tool further comprises: (i) a front elastic member that elastically connects the front housing and the outer housing; and (ii) a rear elastic member that elastically connects the rear housing and the outer housing.

[0147] The front elastic member 71 in the above embodiment is an example of a "front elastic member", and the rear elastic member 76 is an example of a "rear elastic member".

[0148] This invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and can be implemented in various structures without departing from its spirit. For example, to solve some or all of the above-described technical problems, or to achieve some or all of the above-described effects, the technical features in the embodiments corresponding to the technical features in the various methods described in the summary of the invention can be appropriately replaced or combined. In addition, if a technical feature is not described as essential in this specification, it can be appropriately deleted.

Claims

1. A power tool, characterized in that, It has a motor, a spindle, and an inner housing, wherein, The motor has a motor shaft configured to rotate about a motor rotation axis that defines the front-rear direction of the power tool; The spindle is configured to drive the tip tool to swing about a drive axis by power from the motor, wherein the drive axis is orthogonal to the rotation axis of the motor and defines the up-down direction of the power tool; The inner shell extends along the front-rear direction. The inner housing includes a motor housing, a front housing, a rear housing, and an elastic connecting part, wherein, The motor housing houses the motor; The front housing is connected to the front end of the motor housing and houses the main shaft; The rear housing has a battery mounting section capable of housing a battery; The elastic connection extends along the front-rear direction and elastically connects the rear end of the motor housing to the front end of the rear housing.

2. The power tool according to claim 1, characterized in that, The resilient connection portion has a small diameter portion, which is positioned in a region that is inside the contour of the motor housing when the power tool is viewed from the rear. The smaller diameter portion occupies more than half of the total length of the elastic connecting portion in the front-rear direction.

3. The power tool according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The elastic connection includes: (i) a portion connected to the front end of the motor housing; and (ii) a reduced-diameter portion disposed at a position rearward of the front end. The reduced diameter portion is configured such that the first maximum distance is shorter than the second maximum distance, wherein the first maximum distance refers to the distance from the elastic connecting portion to the motor rotation axis; and the second maximum distance refers to the distance from the elastic connecting portion located at the front end to the motor rotation axis.

4. The power tool according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, It also includes an operating unit and a switch, wherein the operating unit is configured to be operated by a user; and the switch responds to the operation of the operating unit to switch the motor on and off. The switch is positioned radially outward from the elastic connection portion, centered on the rotation axis of the motor.

5. The power tool according to claim 4, characterized in that, In the vertical direction, when the end side of the spindle on which the top tool is mounted is defined as the lower side of the power tool and the opposite side of the end side is defined as the upper side, the operating part is positioned above the rotation axis of the motor.

6. The power tool according to claim 5, characterized in that, The switch is positioned above the axis of rotation of the motor.

7. The power tool according to any one of claims 4 to 6, characterized in that, The operating part is positioned forward of the midpoint of the inner housing in the front-rear direction.

8. The power tool according to any one of claims 4 to 7, characterized in that, The operating part is a switch that can slide along the front-back direction.

9. The power tool according to claim 4, characterized in that, In the vertical direction, when the end side of the spindle on which the top tool is mounted is defined as the lower side of the power tool and the opposite side of the end side is defined as the upper side, the operating part is positioned lower than the rotation axis of the motor.

10. The power tool according to claim 9, characterized in that, The switch is positioned below the axis of rotation of the motor.

11. The power tool according to any one of claims 4, 9, and 10, characterized in that, The operating unit is a trigger switch or toggle switch operated by the user by pressing.

12. The power tool according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that, It also has an outer shell extending along the front-rear direction and housing the inner shell. At least a portion of the outer casing is configured such that: (i) in the front-rear direction, it is disposed between the front casing and the rear casing; and (ii) in the radial direction centered on the motor rotation axis, it is disposed at a position further outward than the elastic connection portion.

13. A power tool, characterized in that, It has a motor, a spindle, and an inner housing, wherein, The spindle is configured to drive the tip tool to swing about a drive axis by power from the motor, wherein the drive axis defines the up-down direction of the power tool; The inner housing houses the motor and the main shaft. The inner housing includes a motor housing, a front housing, a rear housing, and an elastic connecting part, wherein, The motor housing houses the motor; The front housing is connected to the front end of the motor housing and houses the main shaft; The rear housing has a battery mounting section capable of housing a battery; The elastic connecting portion extends in a direction orthogonal to the drive axis and elastically connects the rear end of the motor housing to the front end of the rear housing. The resilient connection portion has a small diameter portion, which is positioned in a region that is inside the contour of the motor housing when the power tool is viewed from the front. The smaller diameter portion occupies more than half of the total length of the elastic connection portion in the extending direction of the elastic connection portion.

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