SNOW BLOWER AND ATTACHMENT

Abstract

The disclosure relates to a snow blower (2). The snow blower (2) may include a working section (78) configured to throw snow from a ground, a plurality of direction-changing elements (160) configured to change a direction for throwing the snow, and an adjustment device (162). The adjustment device (162) may include a plurality of gears (180). The plurality of gears (180) may mesh with one another and be configured to rotate to adjust an orientation of the plurality of direction-changing elements (160). Furthermore, the disclosure discloses an attachment (6). The attachment (6) may be configured to be used with the snow blower (2).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The disclosure concerns a snow blower and an attachment. TECHNICAL BACKGROUND

[0002] Chinese Patent Application No. 114481930 describes a snow blower. The snow blower includes: a working section configured to throw snow from the ground; a plurality of direction-changing elements configured to change the direction in which the snow is thrown; and an adjusting device. The adjusting device includes a plurality of rods configured to adjust the orientation of the plurality of direction-changing elements, and a coupling plate connecting the plurality of rods. DEPICTION

[0003] In the aforementioned snow blower, after each rod is attached to a corresponding one of the direction-changing elements, the coupling plate is attached to the plurality of rods. For this reason, the assembly efficiency (ease of assembly) between the direction-changing elements, the rods, and the coupling plate is not high. The present teachings provide a technique configured to improve assembly efficiency.

[0004] The present teachings disclose a snow blower. The snow blower may include: a working section configured to throw snow from a ground; a plurality of direction-changing elements configured to change a direction for throwing the snow; and an adjusting device. The adjusting device may include a plurality of gears. The plurality of gears may mesh with each other and be configured to adjust an orientation of the plurality of direction-changing elements by rotation.

[0005] According to the above configuration, the plurality of direction-changing elements and the plurality of gears can be assembled by meshing the plurality of gears with each other. As a result, assembly efficiency can be improved.

[0006] The present teachings disclose an attachment. The attachment may be configured for use with a snow blower. The attachment may include: a working portion configured to throw snow from a ground; a plurality of direction-changing elements configured to change the direction in which the snow is thrown; and an adjustment device. The adjustment device may include a plurality of gears. The plurality of gears may be rotatable and configured to rotate to adjust an orientation of the plurality of direction-changing elements.

[0007] According to the above configuration, the same effects as the above snow blower can be achieved. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of a work machine 2 according to an embodiment. Fig. 2 shows a left side view of a base unit 4 according to the embodiment, showing a motor receiving portion 40 and its surroundings with a rear left housing 38 removed. Fig. 3 shows a cross-sectional view of a fastening unit 18 and its surroundings of the working machine 2 according to the embodiment. Fig. 4 shows a perspective view of a rear operating rod 10, the fixing unit 18 and a front operating rod 60 according to the embodiment. Fig. 5 shows a perspective view of a front unit 64 of an attachment 6 according to the embodiment and its surroundings. Fig. 6 shows a perspective view of a front rod shaft 62, a gear unit 76, a working shaft 104 and a first member 112 according to the embodiment. Fig. 7 shows a cross-sectional view of a second element 114 of the attachment 6 according to the embodiment and its surroundings. Fig. Fig. 8 shows a cross-sectional view of the first element 112 of the attachment 6 according to the embodiment and its surroundings. Fig. 9 shows a cross-sectional view of a right bearing 108 of the attachment 6 according to the embodiment and its surroundings. Fig. 10 shows a perspective view of the direction changing elements 160 and an adjusting device 162 according to the embodiment. Fig. 11 shows an exploded perspective view of the direction changing member 160, a gear 180 and a positioning member 182 according to the embodiment. Fig. 12 shows a cross-sectional view of the adjusting device 162 and its surroundings when a handle 184 is not pulled into the attachment 6 according to the embodiment. Fig. 13 shows an exploded perspective view of the gear 180 and the positioning member 182 according to the embodiment. Fig. 14 shows a cross-sectional view of the direction changing element 160 and the adjusting device 162 according to the embodiment. Fig. 15 shows a rear view of a positioning rib 230 of a first front housing 82 according to the embodiment and its surroundings. Fig. 16 shows a cross-sectional view of the adjusting device 162 and its surroundings when the handle 184 is pulled in the attachment 6 according to the embodiment. DESCRIPTION

[0008] Representative, non-limiting examples of the present disclosure will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. This detailed description is intended merely to provide a person skilled in the art with further details for practicing aspects of the present teachings and is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. Furthermore, each of the additional features and teachings disclosed below may be used separately or in conjunction with other features and teachings to provide improved snow blowers, attachments, and methods of using and manufacturing the same.

[0009] Furthermore, combinations of features and steps disclosed in the detailed description below may not be required to practice the present disclosure in its broadest sense, and are instead taught merely to specifically describe representative examples of the present disclosure. Furthermore, various features of the representative examples described below, as well as the various independent and dependent claims, may be combined in ways not specifically and explicitly recited to provide additional useful embodiments of the present teachings.

[0010] All features disclosed in the description and / or claims are intended to be disclosed separately and independently of each other for the purpose of original written disclosure and for the purpose of limiting the claimed subject matter, regardless of the combination of features in the embodiments and / or the claims. Furthermore, any ranges of values or indications of groups of entities are intended to disclose any possible intermediate value or entity for the purpose of original written disclosure and for the purpose of limiting the claimed subject matter.

[0011] The disclosure discloses a snow blower. The snow blower may include: a working section configured to throw snow from a ground; a plurality of direction-changing elements configured to change a direction for throwing the snow; and an adjusting device. The adjusting device may include a plurality of gears. The plurality of gears may mesh with each other and be configured to adjust an orientation of the plurality of direction-changing elements by rotation.

[0012] In one or more embodiments, the adjustment device may further include a handle configured to be actuated by a user to rotate the plurality of gears.

[0013] According to the above configuration, the orientation of the plurality of direction changing elements can be changed by simply operating the handle.

[0014] In one or more embodiments, the adjustment device may include: a positioning groove; and a positioning projection configured to be switched between a receiving state in which it is received in the positioning groove and a non-receiving state in which it is not received in the positioning groove by operation of the handle, wherein, when the positioning projection is in the non-receiving state, each gear of the plurality of gears is capable of rotating, and when the positioning projection is in the receiving state, each gear of the plurality of gears is unable to rotate.

[0015] According to the above configuration, the gears can be easily switched between the rotatable state and the non-rotatable state by switching the positioning projection between the receiving state and the non-receiving state.

[0016] In one or more embodiments, the positioning projection can be switched from the receiving state to the non-receiving state when the positioning projection moves in a first direction by operation of the handle. At least one of the plurality of gears can have a gear engagement portion. The adjuster can further have an engaging portion configured to be slidable in the first direction with respect to the gear engagement portion formed integrally with the positioning projection, wherein the gear engagement portion engages with the engaging portion when the positioning projection is in the receiving state, and the gear engagement portion engages with the engaging portion when the positioning projection is in the non-receiving state.

[0017] According to the above configuration, the disengagement of the engagement between the gear engaging portion and the engaged portion can be suppressed even when the positioning projection is moved in the first direction and thus switched from the receiving state to the non-receiving state.

[0018] In one or more embodiments, each of the plurality of direction changing elements may include an engaging portion configured to engage the gear engaging portion.

[0019] According to the above configuration, the gear does not need to be equipped with any other configuration that meshes with the meshing portion. This can prevent the configuration of the gears from becoming complicated.

[0020] In one or more embodiments, the positioning protrusion can be switched from the receiving state to the non-receiving state when the handle is pulled toward the user.

[0021] According to the above configuration, the maneuverability of the handle can be improved compared to a configuration in which the handle is pushed to move farther away from the user when switching the positioning protrusion from the recording state to the non-recording state.

[0022] In one or more embodiments, the plurality of gears may include a plurality of first gears, and each of the plurality of first gears may be attached to a corresponding one of the plurality of direction-changing elements. The shapes of the plurality of first gears may be the same.

[0023] According to the above configuration, the configuration of the setting device can be simplified.

[0024] In one or more embodiments, the plurality of gears may include a second gear that meshes with the two adjacent first gears. A shape of the second gear may be the same as the shapes of the plurality of first gears.

[0025] According to the above configuration, the configuration of the setting device can be further simplified.

[0026] In one or more embodiments, the rotation centers of the plurality of first gears may be aligned.

[0027] According to the above configuration, the assembling efficiency of the plurality of first gears can be improved. (EMPLOYMENT)

[0028] As in Fig. 1, the work machine 2 is a pole-type work machine. The work machine 2 is a snow blower configured to throw snow from the ground. The work machine 2 includes a base unit 4 and an attachment 6. The attachment 6 is configured to be removably attached to the base unit 4. The base unit 4 is configured to selectively attach either the attachment 6 or another attachment different from the attachment 6.

[0029] The base unit 4 has a rear operating rod 10, a loop handle 12, a rear unit 14, a rear rod shaft 16 (cf. Fig. 2) and a fastening unit 18.

[0030] The rear operating rod 10 has an elongated, hollow rod shape. Hereinafter, a direction in which the rear operating rod 10 extends is referred to as a front-to-rear direction, a direction perpendicular to the front-to-rear direction is referred to as a left-to-right direction, and a direction perpendicular to the front-to-rear and left-to-right directions is referred to as a top-to-bottom direction.

[0031] The loop handle 12 is attached to the rear operating rod 10. The loop handle 12 is grasped by a user while working with the work machine 2.

[0032] The rear unit 14 is attached to a rear end of the rear operating rod 10. The rear unit 14 has a rear housing 22, a motor housing 24 (see Fig. 2), a motor 26 (cf. Fig. 2), a gear unit 28 (cf. Fig. 2), a trigger 30, a shark fin 32 and a main switch 34.

[0033] The rear housing 22 includes a rear right housing 36 defining an outer shape of a right half surface of the rear housing 22, and a rear left housing 38 defining an outer shape of a left half surface of the rear housing 22. The rear housing 22 includes a motor receiving portion 40, a gripping portion 42, and a switch portion 44.

[0034] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, a battery pack BP can be detachably attached to a rear surface of the motor receiving portion 40. The battery pack BP slides on the rear surface of the motor receiving portion 40. A sliding direction of the battery pack BP is inclined relative to the top-down direction. The battery pack BP includes a rechargeable secondary battery, for example, a lithium-ion battery. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the gripping portion 42 is arranged in front of the motor receiving portion 40. The gripping portion 42 is grasped by a hand opposite the hand that grasps the loop handle 12 during operation of the work machine 2. The switch portion 44 is arranged in front of the gripping portion 42.

[0035] As in Fig. 2, the motor housing 24, the motor 26 and the gear unit 28 are arranged inside the motor receiving section 40. In Fig. In Figure 2, the motor 26, the gear unit 28, and the rear rod shaft 16 are shown in dashed lines. The motor 26 is located inside the motor housing 24. The motor 26 is an example of a drive motor. The motor 26 is, for example, a brushless motor.

[0036] The gear unit 28 includes a first gear 28a fixed to a front end of a motor shaft 26a of the motor 26, and a second gear 28b fixed to a rear end of the rear rod shaft 16. The first gear 28a and the second gear 28b mesh with each other. The gear unit 28 functions as a speed reduction mechanism. When the motor shaft 26a rotates, the first gear 28a and the second gear 28b rotate, causing the rear rod shaft 16 to rotate about a rotational axis AX1 of the rear rod shaft. The rotational axis AX1 of the rear rod shaft extends in the front-to-rear direction. The rotational axis AX1 of the rear rod shaft is offset from a rotational axis of the motor shaft 26a in the top-to-bottom direction. The rear rod shaft 16 is rotatably supported by the rear operating rod 10 inside the rear operating rod 10.

[0037] As in Fig. 1, the trigger 30 is attached to a lower part of the switch portion 44 so that the trigger 30 can be pulled in. The shark fin 32 is attached to an upper part of the gripping portion 42 so that the shark fin 32 can be pushed in. When the shark fin 32 is pushed in, the user can pull the trigger 30 in. When the shark fin 32 is not pushed in, the user cannot pull the trigger 30 in. The main switch 34 is arranged at an upper part of the switch portion 44. The main switch 34 is configured to switch between an on / off state of the work machine 2.When the working machine 2 is switched on, the shark fin 32 is pushed in by a palm of the user who grasps the gripping section 42 and the trigger 30 is pulled in by one or more fingers of the user who grasps the gripping section 42, the motor 26 rotates (cf. . Fig. 2).

[0038] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the fastening unit 18 comprises a tubular member 48, a lever 50, and a push-in member 52. The tubular member 48 has a substantially cylindrical shape extending in the front-to-back direction. The tubular member 48 supports the push-in member 52 so that the push-in member 52 can be pushed in. As shown in Fig. 4, the tubular member 48 has a rear notch 48a extending forward from a rear end of the tubular member 48 and a front notch 48b extending rearward from a front end of the tubular member 48. A front end of the rear rod shaft 16 is inserted into the tubular member 48 from the rear. The front end of the rear rod shaft 16 is fixed to the tubular member 48 by narrowing a width of the rear notch 48a in the left-to-right direction by a first rear bolt 53. The rear rod shaft 16 can be prevented from rotating with respect to the tubular member 48 by a second rear bolt 54 penetrating the rear rod shaft 16.

[0039] The lever 50 is mounted so that it can pivot through the tubular member 48 via a front pin 55. When the lever 50 pivots to be pushed downward, the front pin 55 widens the front notch 48b in the left-to-right direction. When the lever 50 pivots to be pushed upward, the front pin 55 narrows the width of the front notch 48b in the left-to-right direction.

[0040] As in Fig. 1, the attachment 6 has the front operating rod 60, a front rod shaft 62 (cf. Fig. 3) and a front unit 64.

[0041] The front operating rod 60 has an elongated, hollow rod shape. The front operating rod 60 extends in the front-to-rear direction. As shown in Fig. 5, the front operating rod 60 is connected to the front unit 64 via a third element 116 (cf. Fig. 7), which will be described later. As in Fig. 3, a rear end of the front operating rod 60 is inserted into the tubular member 48 from the front side. When the lever 50 is pivoted so as to be pushed to be lifted with the rear end of the front operating rod 60 inserted into the tubular member 48, the width of the front notch 48b narrows in the left-to-right direction, thereby fixing the rear end of the front operating rod 60 to the tubular member 48. Thus, the front operating rod 60 is fixed to the rear operating rod 10 via the fixing unit 18.

[0042] An engagement pin 66 is slidably mounted on the rear end of the front operating rod 60. When the front operating rod 60 is inserted into the tubular member 48 and the push-in member 52 is also not inserted, the engagement pin 66 is inserted into a through-hole 48c of the tubular member 48 by the biasing force of a leaf spring 67. This can prevent the front operating rod 60 from rotating relative to the tubular member 48. When the front operating rod 60 is to be released from the rear operating rod 10, the user pivots the lever 50 so that it is pushed down. Next, the user pushes in the insert member 52. The engagement pin 66 comes out of the through-hole 48c by being pushed by the push-in member 52. Finally, the user pulls the front operating rod 60 out of the tubular member 48.In the following, the front operating rod 60 and the rear operating rod 10 may be referred to collectively as the operating rod 68.

[0043] The front rod shaft 62 is rotatably supported by the front operating rod 60 within the front operating rod 60. The front rod shaft 62 fits into the rear rod shaft 16 when the front operating rod 60 is attached to the rear operating rod 10 via the fastening unit 18. The front rod shaft 62 rotates about a front rod shaft rotation axis AX2 integrally with the rear rod shaft 16. The front rod shaft rotation axis AX2 extends in the front-to-rear direction. The rotation axis AX2 of the front rod shaft is coaxial with the rotation axis AX1 of the rear rod shaft. Hereinafter, the front rod shaft 62 and the rear rod shaft 16 may be collectively referred to as the rod shaft 70.

[0044] As in Fig. 5, the front unit 64 is attached to a front end of the front operating rod 60. The front unit 64 includes a front housing 74, a gear unit 76 (see Fig. 6) and a working section 78.

[0045] The front housing 74 is formed from a resin material, for example. The front housing 74 is made of nylon, for example. The front housing 74 includes a first front housing 82, a second front housing 84, and a third front housing 86. The first front housing 82 defines an outer shape of a front upper part of the front housing 74. The second front housing 84 defines an outer shape of a rear upper part of the front housing 74. The second front housing 84 is fixed to a rear part of the first front housing 82. The third front housing 86 defines an outer shape of a lower part of the front housing 74. The third front housing 86 is fixed to a lower part of the first front housing 82 and a lower part of the second front housing 84. The first front housing 82 and the third front housing 86 define a working space 88.The working chamber 88 is located outside the front housing 74.

[0046] As in Fig. 6, a transmission unit 76 includes a transmission shaft 90, a first bevel gear 92, a second bevel gear 94, a rear pulley 96, a front pulley 98, and a belt 100. As shown in the Fig. 7 and Fig. 8, the gear shaft 90, the first bevel gear 92, the second bevel gear 94, the rear pulley 96, the front pulley 98 and the belt 100 are arranged inside the front housing 74.

[0047] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 7, the gear shaft 90 extends in the left-to-right direction. The gear shaft 90 is substantially perpendicular to the front rod shaft 62. The first bevel gear 92 is meshed with the second bevel gear 94. The gear shaft 90 is connected to the front rod shaft 62 via the first bevel gear 92 and the second bevel gear 94. The first bevel gear 92 and the second bevel gear 94 serve as a speed reduction mechanism. The first bevel gear 92 is fixed to the right end of the gear shaft 90. The second bevel gear 94 is fixed to a front end of the front rod shaft 62. When the front rod shaft 62 rotates, the first bevel gear 92 and the second bevel gear 94 rotate accordingly, causing the gear shaft 90 to rotate about a gear shaft rotation axis AX3. The gear shaft rotation axis AX3 is substantially perpendicular to the front rod shaft rotation axis AX2.

[0048] The rear pulley 96 is fixed to a left end of the transmission shaft 90. The rear pulley 96 rotates about a rear pulley rotation axis AX4, which is integrally formed with the transmission shaft 90. The rear pulley rotation axis AX4 extends in the left-to-right direction. The rear pulley rotation axis AX4 is coaxial with the transmission shaft rotation axis AX3.

[0049] As in Fig. 8, the front pulley 98 is located in front of the rear pulley 96. The diameter of the front pulley 98 is larger than the diameter of the rear pulley 96.

[0050] The belt 100 is mounted on the rear pulley 96 and the front pulley 98. The belt 100 connects the rear pulley 96 and the front pulley 98. The rotation of the rear pulley 96 is transmitted to the front pulley 98 via the belt 100. This causes the front pulley 98 to rotate about a front pulley rotation axis AX5. The front pulley rotation axis AX5 extends in the left-to-right direction. The front pulley rotation axis AX5 is substantially parallel to the rear pulley rotation axis AX4. The rear pulley 96, the front pulley 98, and the belt 100 function as a speed reduction mechanism.

[0051] The working section 78 has a working shaft 104 and a working element 106 (see Fig. 5). The output shaft 104 is arranged to extend across a space inside the front housing 74 and the working space 88. A left end of the output shaft 104 is fixed to the front pulley 98. The output shaft 104 extends in the left-to-right direction. The output shaft 104 is substantially parallel to the transmission shaft 90. The output shaft 104 rotates about an output shaft rotation axis AX6 integral with the front pulley 98. The output shaft rotation axis AX6 extends in the left-to-right direction. The rotation axis of the output shaft AX6 is coaxial with the rotation axis of the front pulley AX5. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 9, a right end of the output shaft 104 is supported by the first front housing 82 and the third front housing 86 via the right bearing 108 so that the output shaft 104 is rotatable. This can suppress vibrations caused by the rotation of the output shaft 104, compared to a configuration in which the right end of the output shaft 104 is not supported so that the output shaft 104 is rotatable.

[0052] The working shaft 104 is inserted into the working element 106. The working element 106 is, for example, a blade. The working element 106 is separate from the working shaft 104. The working element 106 fits into the working shaft 104. The working element 106 rotates integrally with the working shaft 104. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 5, the working element 106 includes a plurality of ribs 110. As the working element 106 rotates, the plurality of ribs 110 project snow from the ground.

[0053] As in the Fig. 7 and Fig. 8, the front unit 64 further includes a first element 112, a second element 114, and a third element 116.

[0054] The first element 112 is arranged inside the front housing 74. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 6, the first member 112 extends in the front-to-back direction. The first member 112 has a plate shape. The first member 112 is formed, for example, from a metal material. The first member 112 is made, for example, of aluminum. The hardness of the first member 112 is greater than the hardness of the front housing 74. The first member 112 includes a first front support portion 120, a first rear support portion 122, and a first connecting portion 124 connecting the first front support portion 120 and the first rear support portion 122.

[0055] As in Fig. 8, the first front support portion 120 is located to the right of the front pulley 98. The first front support portion 120 is disposed between the first front housing 82 and the third front housing 86 in the top-down direction, whereby the first front support portion 120 is supported by the first front housing 82 and the third front housing 86. The first front support portion 120 has a front through-hole 126. The front through-hole 126 penetrates the first front support portion 120 in the left-right direction. The working shaft 104 penetrates the front through-hole 126. The working shaft 104 is rotatably supported by the first front support portion 120 via a first bearing 128 inside the front through-hole 126.

[0056] The first rear support portion 122 is located to the right of the rear pulley 96. The first rear support portion 122 is located rearward of the first front support portion 120. The first rear support portion 122 is fixed to each second front housing 84 and third front housing 86. The first rear support portion 122 has a rear through-hole 130. The rear through-hole 130 penetrates the first rear support portion 122 in the left-to-right direction. The transmission shaft 90 penetrates the rear through-hole 130. The transmission shaft 90 is rotatably supported by the first rear support portion 122 via a second bearing 132 inside the rear through-hole 130.

[0057] The first rear support portion 122 includes a cylindrical rib 134. The cylindrical rib 134 is defined on a right surface of the first rear support portion 122. The cylindrical rib 134 has a substantially cylindrical shape. The cylindrical rib 134 surrounds the entire circumference of the rear through-hole 130.

[0058] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 7, the second member 114 is disposed inside the front housing 74. The second member 114 extends in the left-to-right direction. The second member 114 has a substantially cylindrical shape. The second member 114 is formed, for example, from a resin material. The second member 114 is, for example, nylon. The material of the second member 114 is the same as, for example, the material of the front housing 74. The hardness of the second member 114 is substantially the same as the hardness of the front housing 74. The material of the second member 114 differs, for example, from the material of the first member 112. The hardness of the second member 114 is lower than the hardness of the first member 112.The second member 114 is arranged between the second front housing 84 and the third front housing 86 in the top-down direction, whereby the second member 114 is supported by the second front housing 84 and the third front housing 86. The second member 114 surrounds the transmission shaft 90. An inner peripheral surface of the second member 114 is spaced from an outer peripheral surface of the transmission shaft 90. The transmission shaft 90 penetrates the second member 114. The second member 114 is arranged to the right of the first rear support portion 122. The second member 114 is fixed to the first rear support portion 122. A left end of the second member 114 is inserted into the cylindrical rib 134.

[0059] The third member 116 has a substantially L-shape. The third member 116 is formed of a metal material, for example. The third member 116 is aluminum, for example. The material of the third member 116 is different from the materials of the front housing 74 and the second member 114. The hardness of the third member 116 is greater than the hardness of the front housing 74 and the hardness of the second member 114. The material of the third member 116 is the same as, for example, the material of the first member 112. The hardness of the third member 116 is substantially the same as the hardness of the first member 112. The third member 116 is located between the second front housing 84 and the third front housing 86 in the top-down direction. The third member 116 is fixed to each of the second front housing 84 and the third front housing 86.The third element 116 has a third front support portion 138, a third rear support portion 140, and a third connecting portion 142 connecting the third front support portion 138 and the third rear support portion 140.

[0060] The third front support portion 138 is disposed inside the front housing 74. The third front support portion 138 extends in the left-to-right direction. The third front support portion 138 has a substantially cylindrical shape. A right end of the second member 114 is inserted into the third front support portion 138. The second member 114 is disposed between the first rear support portion 122 and the third front support portion 138. The third front support portion 138 is fixed to the second member 114. The third front support portion 138 surrounds the gear shaft 90. The gear shaft 90 is inserted into the third front support portion 138. The gear shaft 90 is rotatably supported by the third front support portion 138 via a third bearing 146 inside the third front support portion 138. The third bearing 146 is disposed between the first bevel gear 92 and the second member 114.

[0061] The third rear support portion 140 is arranged to protrude beyond the inside and outside of the front housing 74. The third rear support portion 140 extends in the front-to-rear direction. The direction in which the third rear support portion 140 extends is inclined, for example, substantially perpendicular to a direction in which the third front support portion 138 extends. The third rear support portion 140 has a substantially cylindrical shape. The third rear support portion 140 surrounds the front rod shaft 62. The front end of the front rod shaft 62 is inserted into the third rear support portion 140. The front rod shaft 62 and the second bevel gear 94 are rotatably supported by the third rear support portion 140 via a fourth bearing 148 inside the third rear support portion 140.

[0062] The third connecting portion 142 connects an inner space of the third front support portion 138 and an inner space of the third rear support portion 140. A part of the front rod shaft 62, a part of the first bevel gear 92, and a part of the second bevel gear 94 are arranged inside the third connecting portion 142.

[0063] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 10, the front unit 64 includes a plurality of (three in the present embodiment) direction-changing elements 160 and an adjusting device 162. Hereinafter, among the three direction-changing elements 160, a rightmost direction-changing element 160 may be referred to as direction-changing element 160a, a leftmost direction-changing element 160 may be referred to as left direction-changing element 160b, and a direction-changing element 160 between the right direction-changing element 160a and the left direction-changing element 160b may be referred to as the middle direction-changing element 160c.

[0064] The direction-changing elements 160 are formed, for example, from a resin material. An orientation of the direction-changing elements 160 is adjusted by the adjusting device 162. The direction-changing elements 160 change the direction of the snow swept by the working element 106 (see FIG. Fig. 5). Each of the direction-changing elements 160 has a base portion 166, a blade portion 168, and an engagement portion 170 (see Fig. 11). The base portion 166, the slat portion 168, and the engagement portion 170 are formed by integral molding.

[0065] The base sections 166 have a plate shape. As in Fig. 1, the base portions 166 are disposed within the working space 88. The base portions 166 are disposed along an outer surface of the first front housing 82.

[0066] The slat sections 168 are arranged in the working space 88. Each of the slat sections 168 is attached to a corresponding one of the base sections 166. The slat sections 168 have a plate shape. The slat sections 168 are substantially perpendicular to the base sections 166. The slat sections 168 change the direction of snow throw by directing the snow swept by the working element 106. When the orientation of the direction-changing elements 160 changes, the orientations of the slat sections 168 change. When the slat sections 168 are arranged along a plane having the top-down and front-back directions, the slat sections 168 throw snow upward.Furthermore, when the slat sections 168 are inclined with respect to the plane including the top-down and front-back directions so that the upper ends of the slat sections 168 are located to the right of the lower ends of the slat sections 168, the slat sections 168 throw snow in a rightward and upward direction. When the slat sections 168 are inclined with respect to the plane including the top-down and front-back directions so that the upper ends of the slat sections 168 are located to the left of the lower ends of the slat sections 168, the slat sections 168 throw snow in a leftward and upward direction.

[0067] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 11, each engagement portion 170 is secured to the corresponding base portion 166. The engagement portion 170 is secured to a surface of the base portion 166 opposite a surface to which the slat portion 168 (see Figure 11) is secured. Fig. 10). The engaging portion 170 protrudes from the base portion 166. The engaging portion 170 has a columnar portion 174 extending from the base portion 166 and a slat portion 176 extending from the columnar portion 174. The slat portion 176 has a cross shape. As shown in Fig. 12, the columnar portion 174 penetrates the first front housing 82. The louver portion 176 is arranged inside the front housing 74. The louver portion 176 is arranged in a gear receiving space 178 defined by the first front housing 82 and the second front housing 84. Fig. 12 a boundary between the columnar portion 174 and the slat portion 176 is shown with a dashed line.

[0068] As in Fig. 10, the adjusting device 162 comprises a plurality of (in the present embodiment, five) gears 180, a positioning element 182, a handle 184, and a biasing element 186. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 12, the plurality of gears 180, the positioning member 182, and the biasing member 186 are disposed in the gear receiving space 178. The handle 184 is disposed outside the front housing 74.

[0069] The gears 180 are rotatably supported by the first front housing 82. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 10, the adjacent gears 180 are meshed with one another. The five gears 180 include a plurality of (three in the present embodiment) first gears 187 and one or more (two in the present embodiment) second gears 188.

[0070] The shapes of the three first gears 187 are the same. The first gears 187 are, for example, spur gears. The rotation centers of the three first gears 187 are aligned in the left-to-right direction. The rotation axis of each first gear 187 is coaxial with the rotation axis of the corresponding direction-changing element 160. The three first gears 187 are spaced apart from each other in the left-to-right direction. The first gears 187 are fixed to the direction-changing elements 160. Hereinafter, the first gear 187 fixed to the right direction-changing element 160a is referred to as the first gear 187a, the first gear 187 fixed to the middle direction-changing element 160c is referred to as the first gear 187b, and the first gear 187 fixed to the left direction-changing element 160b is referred to as the first gear 187c.

[0071] The shapes of the two second gears 188 are the same. The shapes of the second gears 188 are the same as the shapes of the first gears 187. The second gears 188 are, for example, spur gears. One gear type of the second gears 188 is the same as one gear type of the first gears 187. The second gears 188 are not attached to the direction change elements 160. The rotation centers of the two second gears 188 are aligned in the left-to-right direction. The rotation centers of the three first gears 187 are aligned in the left-to-right direction with the rotation centers of the two second gears 188. Each second gear 188 is arranged between the two adjacent first gears 187. Each second gear 188 meshes with the two adjacent first gears 187. Each second gear 188 transmits the rotation of one of the two adjacent first gears 187 to another of the two adjacent first gears 187.Hereinafter, the second gear 188 arranged between the first gear 187a and the first gear 187b is referred to as the second gear 188a, and the second gear 188 arranged between the first gear 187b and the first gear 187c is referred to as the second gear 188b.

[0072] When the gears 180 rotate, the first gears 187a, 187b, 187c rotate in a first rotational direction, and the second gears 188a, 188b rotate in a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction. As a result, the three direction-changing elements 160 rotate in the same rotational direction, for example, the first rotational direction. A direction in which the direction-changing elements 160 rotate is the same as the direction in which the first gears 187 rotate. The rotational speed of the first gears 187a, 187b, 187c is also the same. When the gears 180 rotate, the orientations of the three direction-changing elements 160 are therefore the same. As a result, the direction in which the snow is thrown can be determined from the direction of the working element 106 (see FIG. Fig. 5) can be changed more easily.

[0073] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 11, each of the gears 180 includes a gear portion 190 and a gear engagement portion 192. The gear portion 190 includes a plurality of teeth. The gear engagement portion 192 is fixed to the gear portion 190. The gear engagement portion 192 projects rearward from the gear portion 190. The outer shape of the gear engagement portion 192 has a substantially cruciform configuration. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 13, the gear engagement portion 192 has a gear engagement hole 194. The gear engagement hole 194 penetrates the gear engagement portion 192 in the front-to-back direction. The gear engagement hole has a shape corresponding to the outer shape of the engagement portion 170 of the direction change member 160. For this reason, the gear engagement hole has a bore shape defined by a connection of a columnar bore and a cross-shaped bore. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 14, the engaging portion 170 is inserted into the gear engagement hole. The engaging portion 170 engages the gear engagement portion 192 inside the gear engagement hole 194. Due to this, the direction changing member 160 rotates integrally with the gear 180. The gear engagement portion 192 is fixed to the engaging portion 170 by a screw 196 in a state of engagement with the engaging portion 170.

[0074] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 11, the positioning member 182 is supported by the first gear 187b. The positioning member 182 includes a first positioning engagement portion 198, a flange portion 200, a second positioning engagement portion 202, and a positioning portion 204.

[0075] The first positioning engagement portion 198 has a substantially cylindrical shape. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 13, the first positioning engagement portion 198 has a positioning engagement hole 208. The positioning engagement hole 208 penetrates the first positioning engagement portion 198 in the front-to-back direction. The positioning engagement hole 208 has a shape that corresponds to the outer shape of the gear engagement portion 192 of the first gear 187b. For this reason, the positioning engagement hole 208 has a substantially cross-shaped shape. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 14, the gear engagement portion 192 is inserted into the positioning engagement hole 208. The gear engagement portion 192 engages with the first positioning engagement portion 198 inside the positioning engagement hole 208. Due to this, the positioning member 182 rotates about a positioning rotation axis AX7 integrally with the first gear 187b.

[0076] As in Fig. 11, the flange portion 200 is fixed to a rear end of the first positioning engagement portion 198. The flange portion 200 protrudes radially outward from an outer peripheral surface of the first positioning engagement portion 198. The flange portion 200 completely surrounds the outer peripheral surface of the first positioning engagement portion 198. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 12, the biasing member 186 is disposed between the flange portion 200 and an inner surface of the second front housing 84. The flange portion 200 is biased forward toward the first gear 187b by the biasing member 186. This biases the positioning member 182 toward the first gear 187b. Furthermore, the positioning member 182 is configured to slide in the front-to-back direction relative to the first gear 187b.

[0077] As in Fig. 11, the second positioning engagement portion 202 is fixed to a rear end of the flange portion 200. The second positioning engagement portion 202 includes a columnar portion 212 extending from the flange portion 200 and a fin portion 214 extending from the columnar portion 212. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 12, the slat portion 214 engages the handle 184. The second positioning engagement portion 202 is secured to the handle 184 by a screw 216. As a result, the positioning element 182 moves integrally with the handle 184.

[0078] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 11, the positioning portion 204 includes a positioning base 220 and a positioning protrusion 222. The positioning base 220 extends upward from an outer peripheral surface of the first positioning engagement portion 198. The positioning protrusion 222 protrudes forward from an upper part of a front surface of the positioning base 220.

[0079] As in Fig. 12, the handle 184 is supported by the second front housing 84. The handle 184 is configured to slide in the front-to-back direction and also rotate about a handle pivot axis AX8. The handle pivot axis AX8 extends in the front-to-back direction. The direction in which the handle pivot axis AX8 extends is the same as the sliding direction in which the handle 184 slides. The handle pivot axis AX8 is coaxial with the positioning pivot axis AX7. The handle 184 is operated by the user. The user pulls the handle 184 backward toward the user while standing behind the front unit 64. This allows the user to easily operate the handle 184. When the handle 184 is pulled, the positioning member 182 slides backward relative to the first gear 187b, so that the positioning member 182 separates from the first gear 187b. In addition, the handle 184 pivots integrally with the positioning element 182.

[0080] As in Fig. 15, the adjusting device 162 further includes a positioning rib 230. The positioning rib 230 is disposed in the gear-receiving space 178. The positioning rib 230 protrudes rearward from an inner surface of the first front housing 82. The positioning rib 230 includes a plurality of (three in the present embodiment) U-shaped ribs 232 and connecting ribs 234 that connect the two adjacent U-shaped ribs 232.

[0081] Each of the three U-shaped ribs 232 defines a positioning groove 236. The three positioning grooves 236 are spaced apart from each other. Each of the positioning grooves 236 is configured to receive the positioning projection 222. The positioning rib 230 is configured to engage the positioning projection 222 in each of the positioning grooves 236. Fig. 15, the positioning projection 222 is shown by a dashed line.

[0082] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 12, when the handle 184 is not operated, the positioning member 182 is pressed against the first gear 187b by the biasing force of the biasing member 186. In this state, the positioning projection 222 is received by one of the positioning grooves 236. Hereinafter, the state of the positioning projection 222 on this occasion may be referred to as the receiving state. In this state, the positioning projection 222 engages with the positioning rib 230. For this reason, the positioning member 182 cannot pivot about the positioning rotation axis AX7. Furthermore, in this state, the first positioning engagement portion 198 engages with the gear engagement portion 192 of the first gear 187b.

[0083] As in Fig. 16 when the handle 184 (cf. Fig. 12) is pulled a predetermined distance rearward toward the user, the positioning member 182 slides rearward relative to the first gear 187b, so that the positioning member 182 separates from the first gear 187b, thereby disengaging the positioning projection 222 from the positioning groove 236. This changes the positioning projection 222 from the receiving state to a non-receiving state in which the positioning projection 222 is not received by the positioning grooves 236. In this state, the positioning projection 222 does not engage the positioning rib 230. In the present embodiment, both a length L1 of the gear engagement portion 192 of the first gear 187b in the front-to-back direction and a length L2 of the first positioning engagement portion 198 in the front-to-back direction are longer than a length L3 of the positioning grooves 236 in the front-to-back direction.For this reason, the first positioning engagement portion 198 engages the gear engagement portion 192 of the first gear 187b even when the positioning projection 222 is switched from the receiving state to the non-receiving state. For this reason, the positioning member 182 can pivot about the positioning rotation axis AX7 integrally with the first gear 187b. The length L1 is substantially equal to the length L2. As shown in FIG. Fig. As shown in FIG. 12, when the positioning protrusion 222 is in the receiving state, an entire area of the first positioning engagement portion 198 in the front-to-rear direction engages with the gear engagement portion 192 of the first gear 187b. Due to this, a length in the front-to-rear direction of a region where the first positioning engagement portion 198 and the gear engagement portion 192 overlap is longer than the length L3 (see FIG. Fig.16) of the positioning grooves 236.

[0084] As shown in Fig. 16, when the orientation of the direction-changing elements 160 is to be changed, the user first pulls the handle 184 backward toward the user. The positioning projection 222 is shifted from the receiving state to the non-receiving state by the positioning element 182 sliding backward. Next, the user pivots the handle 184 in a desired direction about the handle pivot axis AX8 (see Fig. 12) while pulling the handle 184 toward the user. The first gear 187b pivots together with the positioning element 182, causing the five gears 180 to pivot. This changes the orientations of the three direction-changing elements 160 simultaneously. Finally, the user releases the handle 184. The positioning element 182 slides forward due to the biasing force of the biasing element 186, so that the positioning element 182, together with the handle 184, is released from the user.This shifts the positioning protrusion 222 from the non-receiving state to the receiving state. As a result, the positioning protrusion 222 engages the positioning rib 230. This determines the orientation of the direction-changing elements 160. In the present embodiment, the orientations of the direction-changing elements 160 can be changed in three patterns. In a modification, the orientation of the direction-changing elements 160 can be changed in two patterns or in four or more patterns. (effects)

[0085] The work machine 2 in the embodiment is the snow blower. The work machine 2 includes the working section 78 configured to throw snow from the ground, the plurality of direction-changing elements 160 configured to change the direction for throwing the snow, and the adjusting device 162. The adjusting device 162 includes the plurality of gears 180. The plurality of gears 180 are meshed with each other and configured to adjust the orientation of the plurality of direction-changing elements 160 by rotation.

[0086] According to the above configuration, the plurality of direction change elements 160 and the plurality of gears 180 can be assembled by meshing the plurality of gears 180 with each other. This can improve assembly efficiency.

[0087] The attachment 6, in the present embodiment, is configured for use with the snow blower. The attachment 6 includes the working section 78 configured to throw snow from the ground, the plurality of direction-changing elements 160 configured to change the direction for blowing the snow, and the adjusting device 162. The adjusting device 162 includes the plurality of gears 180. The plurality of gears 180 are rotatable and configured to adjust the orientation of the plurality of direction-changing elements 160 by rotation.

[0088] According to the above configuration, the same effects as the above working machine 2 can be achieved.

[0089] In addition, the adjustment device 162 has the handle 184, which is configured such that it can be operated by the user to rotate the plurality of gears 180.

[0090] According to the above configuration, the orientation of the plurality of direction changing elements 160 can be changed by simply operating the handle 184.

[0091] In addition, the adjustment device 162 has the positioning grooves 236 and the positioning projection 222, which is configured to be switched between the receiving state in which it is received in the positioning grooves 236 and the non-receiving state in which it is not received in the positioning grooves 236 by operating the handle 184. When the positioning projection 222 is in the non-receiving state, each gear of the plurality of gears 180 can rotate, and when the positioning projection 222 is in the receiving state, each gear of the plurality of gears 180 cannot rotate.

[0092] According to the above configuration, the gears 180 can be easily switched between the state in which they can rotate and the state in which they cannot rotate by switching the positioning projection 222 between the receiving state and the non-receiving state.

[0093] Furthermore, the positioning protrusion 222 is switched from the receiving state to the non-receiving state when the positioning protrusion 222 is moved rearward by operating the handle 184 (an example of the "first direction"). At least one of the plurality of gears 180 has the gear engagement portion 192.The adjusting device 162 further includes the first positioning engagement portion 198 (an example of an “on-part”) configured to be displaceable rearwardly with respect to the gear engagement portion 192 integrally with the positioning projection 222, wherein, when the positioning projection 222 is in the receiving state, the gear engagement portion 192 engages with the first positioning engagement portion 198, and when the positioning projection 222 is in the non-receiving state, the gear engagement portion 192 engages with the first positioning engagement portion 198.

[0094] According to the above configuration, the disengagement of the engagement between the gear engagement portion 192 and the first positioning engagement portion 198 can be suppressed even when the positioning projection 222 is moved rearward and thus switched from the receiving state to the non-receiving state.

[0095] In addition, each of the plurality of direction changing elements 160 has the engagement portion 170 configured to engage with the gear engagement portion 192.

[0096] According to the above configuration, the gears 180 do not need to be provided with another configuration that engages with the engaging portion 170. Therefore, the configuration of the gears 180 can be kept so as not to be complicated.

[0097] In addition, the positioning projection 222 is moved from the receiving state to the non-receiving state when the handle 184 is pulled toward the user.

[0098] According to the above configuration, the maneuverability of the handle 184 can be improved compared to a configuration in which the handle 184 is pushed to move farther away from the user when switching the positioning protrusion 222 from the recording state to the non-recording state.

[0099] In addition, the plurality of gears 180 includes the plurality of first gears 187. Each of the plurality of first gears 187 is fixed to the corresponding one of the plurality of direction change elements 160. The shapes of the plurality of first gears 187 are identical to each other.

[0100] According to the above configuration, the configuration of the setting device 162 can be simplified.

[0101] In addition, the plurality of gears 180 includes second gears 188, each of which meshes with the two adjacent first gears 187. The shapes of the second gears 188 are the same as the shapes of the plurality of first gears 187.

[0102] According to the above configuration, the configuration of the setting device 162 can be further simplified.

[0103] In addition, the rotation centers of the plurality of first gears 187 are aligned.

[0104] According to the above configuration, the assembly efficiency of the plurality of first gears 187 can be improved. (Modifications)

[0105] The working machine 2 may not be a snow blower in one aspect, but for example a motor brush, a motor sweeper, a tiller or a scarifier.

[0106] In one aspect, the orientation of the direction change elements 160 can be changed by an actuator (not shown).

[0107] In one aspect, the handle 184 can pivot about the handle pivot axis AX8 in a forward-pushed state. When the handle 184 is pushed forward, the positioning protrusion 222 is in the non-receiving state. By pivoting the positioning member 182 about the positioning pivot axis AX7, the plurality of gears 180 rotate.

[0108] In one aspect, the shapes of the first gears 187 may be different from the shapes of the second gears 188.

[0109] In one aspect, the rotation centers of the second gears 188 may not be arranged on a line connecting the rotation centers of the plurality of first gears 187.

[0110] In one aspect, the work machine 2 may include a motor (not shown) instead of the motor 26.

[0111] In one aspect, the transmission shaft 90 may be a flexible shaft that can bend. In this configuration, the transmission shaft 90 is rotatable in the bent state. For example, the transmission shaft 90 may be curved 90 degrees.

[0112] In one aspect, the output shaft 104 may be inclined with respect to the transmission shaft 90.

[0113] In one aspect, the working shaft 104 and the working element 106 may be a component formed by integral molding. QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] CH 114481930

[0002]

Claims

[1] Snow blower (2), comprising: a working section (78) configured to throw snow from the ground; a plurality of direction-changing elements (160) configured to change a direction for throwing the snow; and an adjusting device (162), wherein the adjusting device (162) comprises a plurality of gears (180), and the plurality of gears (180) mesh with each other and are configured to adjust an orientation of the plurality of direction changing elements (160) by rotation. [2] The snow blower (2) of claim 1, wherein the adjustment device (162) further comprises a handle (184) configured to be operated by a user to rotate the plurality of gears (180). [3] Snow blower (2) according to claim 2, wherein the adjusting device (162) comprises: a positioning groove (236); and a positioning projection (222) which is configured such that it can be switched between a receiving state in which it is received in the positioning groove (236) and a non-receiving state in which it is not received in the positioning groove (236) by operating the handle (184), wherein, when the positioning projection (222) is in the non-receiving state, each gear of the plurality of gears (180) is able to rotate, and when the positioning projection (222) is in the receiving state, each gear of the plurality of gears (180) is unable to rotate. [4] Snow blower (2) according to claim 3, wherein the positioning projection (222) is switched from the receiving state to the non-receiving state when the positioning projection (222) moves in a first direction by the operation of the handle (184), wherein at least one of the plurality of gears (180) has a gear engagement portion (192), and the adjusting device (162) further comprises an engaging portion (198) configured to be displaceable in the first direction with respect to the gear engaging portion (192) integrally with the positioning projection (222), wherein when the positioning projection (222) is in the receiving state, the gear engaging portion (192) is engaged with the engaging portion (198), and when the positioning projection (222) is in the non-receiving state, the gear engaging portion (192) is engaged with the engaging portion (198). [5] The snow blower (2) according to claim 4, wherein each of the plurality of direction changing elements (160) has an engaging portion (170) configured to engage with the gear engaging portion (192). [6] Snow blower (2) according to one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the positioning projection (222) is switched from the receiving state to the non-receiving state when the handle (184) is pulled towards the user. [7] Snow blower (2) according to one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the plurality of gears (180) comprises a plurality of first gears (187), each of the plurality of first gears (187) is attached to a corresponding one of the plurality of direction change elements (160), and the shapes of the plurality of first gears (187) are identical to one another. [8] The snow blower (2) according to claim 7, wherein the plurality of gears (180) include a second gear (188) that meshes with the two adjacent first gears (187), and a shape of the second gear (188) is the same as the shapes of the plurality of first gears (187). [9] Snow blower (2) according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the rotation centers of the plurality of first gears (187) are aligned. [10] An attachment (6) configured for use with a snow blower (2), the attachment (6) comprising: a working section (78) configured to throw snow from the ground; a plurality of direction-changing elements (160) configured to change a direction for throwing the snow; and an adjusting device (162), wherein the adjusting device (162) comprises a plurality of gears (180), and the plurality of gears (180) are rotatable and configured to adjust an orientation of the plurality of direction change elements (160) by rotation.

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