ELECTRIC NEEDLE TRAUSTER

Abstract

A needle scaler comprises a tool body, at least part of which extends along a drive axis defining a front-back direction of the scaler, an electric motor housed within the tool body, a battery mounting component configured to removably accommodate a battery, a power transmission mechanism housed within the tool body, and a release mechanism supported by a front end portion of the tool body. The release mechanism includes needles. The needles project forward such that they are exposed by the tool body and are supported to be movable in their respective axial directions. The power transmission mechanism includes a power transmission component.The power transmission part is operably connected to the output shaft of the motor and moves back and forth along the drive axis using the rotation of the output shaft, transmitting an axial force to the needles.

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an electric needle scaler (needle stripper, needle scaler). STATE OF THE ART

[0002] A needle scaler (also called a needle gun scaler or needle gun) is a tool for removing foreign material from the surface of a workpiece. The needle scaler has a number of needles (also called pins), each mounted axially movable by a bearing. The needle scaler is configured to remove foreign material from the surface of a workpiece by applying a hammer force to the needles and striking the workpiece with the tips of the needles. For example, a needle scaler disclosed in JP S63-034865Y is configured to strike an anvil with a hammer that is moved back and forth by an electric motor, thus applying a hammer force to the needles via the anvil. BRIEF SUMMARY

[0003] The needle scaler is to be further improved in terms of durability and user-friendliness.

[0004] It is therefore a non-restrictive objective of the present disclosure to provide a technique that contributes to an improvement in the durability and user-friendliness of an electric needle scaler.

[0005] The above-mentioned problem is solved by an electric needle scaler according to claim 1 or claim 13.

[0006] According to a non-restrictive aspect of the present disclosure, an electric needle scaler is provided which has a tool body, a motor, a battery mounting part, a power transmission mechanism and a removal mechanism (derusting mechanism, peeling mechanism, stripping mechanism, removal mechanism, scaling mechanism).

[0007] At least part of the tool body extends along a drive axis that defines the forward and reverse directions of the needle scaler. The motor is an electric motor and is housed within the tool body. The motor has an output shaft that is rotatable about a first axis of rotation. The battery mounting component is configured to accept a removable battery (battery pack). The power transmission mechanism is housed within the tool body. The release mechanism includes needles. The needles project forward so that they are exposed by the tool body and are mounted to allow movement in their respective axial directions. The power transmission mechanism includes a power transmission component.The power transmission part is operationally connected to the output shaft of the motor and moves back and forth along the drive axis by utilizing the rotation of the output shaft, transmitting the force to the needles in the respective axial directions.

[0008] The needle scaler, in this respect, features a battery mounting bracket to which a battery can be attached. Therefore, this needle scaler offers excellent ease of use and portability, and thus superior user comfort compared to a needle scaler that requires an external power source.

[0009] According to another non-restrictive aspect of the present disclosure, an electric needle scaler is provided which includes a tool body, a motor, a hammer mechanism and a release mechanism.

[0010] The tool body extends along a drive axis that defines the forward and reverse direction of the needle scaler. The motor is an electric motor and is housed within the tool body. The motor has an output shaft that is rotatable about a first axis of rotation. The hammer mechanism is also housed within the tool body. The peeling mechanism is supported by a front end portion of the tool body and includes needles. The needles project forward, so that they are exposed by the tool body, and are mounted to be movable in their respective axial directions. The hammer mechanism includes a piston and a striking piston. The piston is operatively connected to the motor's output shaft and configured to move back and forth along the drive axis in conjunction with the rotation of the output shaft.The impact piston is configured to move back and forth along the drive axis by means of pressure fluctuations generated in an air chamber by the piston's reciprocating motion, and to apply a hammer force to the needles.

[0011] The needle scaler, in this respect, features a hammer mechanism driven by an electric motor. The hammer mechanism moves the impact piston back and forth through the action of the air spring, or more specifically, through pressure fluctuations generated in the air chamber by the piston's reciprocating motion, thus applying a hammering force to the needles of the peeling mechanism. Therefore, the needle scaler offers excellent durability compared to a design where the piston and impact piston are connected by a mechanical spring (such as a compression coil spring) to apply the hammering force. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. Figure 1 is a left side view of a needle scaler according to a first embodiment. Fig. Figure 2 is a perspective front view of the needle scaler. Fig. Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the needle scaler. Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view along a line IV-IV in Fig. 1. Fig. 5 is an enlarged partial view of Fig. 3. Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view along a line IV-IV in Fig. 4. Fig. Figure 7 is a left side view of a needle scaler according to a second embodiment. Fig. Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of the needle scaler. Fig. Figure 9 is a perspective rear view of the needle scaler, with a battery removed from it. Fig. Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view along a line XX in Fig. 8. Fig. Figure 11 is an explanatory view showing one way of using the needle scaler. Fig. Figure 12 is an explanatory view showing a needle scaler according to a third embodiment. Fig. Figure 13 is an explanatory view showing a needle scaler according to a fourth embodiment. Fig. Figure 14 is an explanatory view showing a needle scaler according to a fifth embodiment. Fig. Figure 15 is an explanatory view showing a needle scaler according to a sixth embodiment. Fig. Figure 16 is an explanatory view showing a needle scaler according to a seventh embodiment. Fig. Figure 17 is an explanatory view showing a needle scaler according to an eighth embodiment. Fig. Figure 18 is an explanatory view showing a needle scaler according to a ninth embodiment. Fig. Figure 19 is an explanatory view showing a needle scaler according to a tenth embodiment. Fig. Figure 20 is an explanatory view showing a needle scaler according to an eleventh embodiment. Fig. Figure 21 is an explanatory view showing a needle scaler according to a twelfth embodiment. Fig. Figure 22 is an explanatory view showing a needle scaler according to a thirteenth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXECUTION FORMS

[0012] In a non-restrictive embodiment according to the present disclosure, the power transmission mechanism can comprise a reciprocating component and a striking piston as the power transmission element. The reciprocating component is operably connected to the output shaft of the motor and moves back and forth along the drive axis in conjunction with the rotation of the output shaft. The striking piston applies a hammer force to the needles through the reciprocating motion of the reciprocating component.

[0013] According to this embodiment, a strong hammer force can be applied to the needles through the power transmission mechanism using the impact piston.

[0014] In addition to or as an alternative to the preceding embodiments, the power transmission mechanism may include an intermediate shaft and an oscillating (vibrating) component. The intermediate shaft may be operably connected to the output shaft and configured to rotate a second axis of rotation, parallel to the first axis of rotation, in conjunction with the rotation of the output shaft. The oscillating component may be located on the intermediate shaft and configured to oscillate in the forward-backward direction in conjunction with the rotation of the intermediate shaft. The reciprocating component may be operably connected to the oscillating component and configured to move linearly back and forth along the drive axis in conjunction with the oscillation of the oscillating component.

[0015] According to this embodiment, the motion conversion mechanism, which converts a rotary motion of the motor's output shaft into a linear motion of the reciprocating component, is reduced in size compared to a structure that uses a crank-piston mechanism.

[0016] In addition to or as an alternative to the preceding embodiments, the reciprocating component can have a piston that forms an air chamber between the reciprocating component and the impact piston. The impact piston can move back and forth along the drive axis due to pressure fluctuations caused in the air chamber by the reciprocating movement of the piston.

[0017] According to this embodiment, the power transmission mechanism moves the impact piston back and forth by the action of the air spring, or more specifically, by pressure fluctuations in the air chamber caused by the piston's reciprocating motion, thus applying the hammer force to the needles of the detachment mechanism. Therefore, the needle scaler is designed with excellent durability compared to a structure where the piston and impact piston are connected by a mechanical spring to apply the hammer force.

[0018] In addition to or as an alternative to the preceding embodiments, the piston can have a cylindrical piston cylinder with a base. The impact piston can be slidable along the drive axis within the piston cylinder. The air chamber can be defined between the base of the piston cylinder and the impact piston.

[0019] According to this embodiment, the hammer mechanism is reduced in size compared to a structure in which a cylindrical piston is arranged inside a cylinder that is formed separately from the piston.

[0020] In addition to or as an alternative to the preceding embodiments, the power transmission mechanism can further comprise an elastic component that elastically connects the reciprocating component and the impact piston. The impact piston can move back and forth along the drive axis by an elastic force exerted by the elastic component, which is generated by the reciprocating movement of the reciprocating component.

[0021] According to this embodiment, the power transmission mechanism is implemented with a relatively simple structure, and the productivity of the needle scaler is improved. Furthermore, the hammer force of the impact piston can be easily adjusted by adjusting the elastic force of the elastic component.

[0022] In addition to or as an alternative to the preceding embodiments, the needle scaler can further comprise a sleeve located within the front end portion of the tool body, which holds the release mechanism. The front end portion of the main tool body can be made of synthetic resin. The sleeve can be made of metal and be integrally formed with the front end portion of the tool body. The release mechanism, which includes needles that move in the axial direction, generates heat slightly.

[0023] According to this embodiment, the tool body, which includes the retaining part (sleeve) that holds the release mechanism, is provided with external durability, and the number of parts in the assembly is reduced.

[0024] In addition to or as an alternative to the preceding embodiments, the release mechanism may include a needle housing, a bearing, and an anvil. The needle housing may have a front end with an opening through which the needles are inserted and may be fixed to the tool body. The bearing may support the needles so that they are movable in the respective axial directions. The anvil may be positioned between the power transmission part and the bearing in the front-to-back direction. The anvil may be configured to apply the axial force to the needles by being struck by the power transmission part. The bearing may have a cylindrical shape with a base and may include a base and a cylindrical circumferential wall. The base may have holes through which the needles are inserted.The circumferential wall can extend rearward from an outer circumferential edge of the base and can be configured to slide in the front-back direction along the drive axis within the needle housing. The anvil can have a large-diameter section and a small-diameter section. The large-diameter section can be configured to slide in the front-back direction along the drive axis within the needle housing. The small-diameter section can project forward from the large-diameter section and can have a smaller outer diameter than the large-diameter section. A rear end portion of the bearing's circumferential wall is configured to fit onto the small-diameter section of the anvil.

[0025] According to this embodiment, the anvil and the bearing slide essentially integrally within the needle housing, so that the anvil is restricted in its tilting relative to the needle housing, while the overall length of the anvil is reduced in the axial direction.

[0026] In addition to or as an alternative to the preceding embodiments, an end part of each of the needles may be movable in the axial direction within a space defined between the bottom of the bearing and the anvil in the front-back direction and surrounded by the circumferential wall of the bearing.

[0027] According to this embodiment, the space in which the needles can move in the axial direction is adequately ensured by the bearing and the anvil.

[0028] In addition to or as an alternative to the preceding embodiments, the release mechanism may include a needle housing, a bearing, an anvil, and an elastic element. The needle housing may have a front end with an opening through which the needles are inserted and may be fixed to the tool body. The bearing may support the needles so that they are movable in the respective axial directions. The bearing may be configured to slide within the needle housing in the front-to-back direction along the drive axis. The anvil may be positioned between the power transmission element and the bearing in the front-to-back direction and may be configured to slide within the needle housing in the front-to-back direction along the drive axis. The anvil may be configured to apply a hammer force to the needles by striking them through the power transmission element.The elastic element can be positioned between the anvil and the rear end of the needle housing in the front-back direction.

[0029] According to this embodiment, the elastic element dampens the impact of the collision when the needles rebound and collide with the anvil.

[0030] In addition to or as an alternative to the preceding embodiment, the needle scaler may further comprise a handle and an actuating element. The handle may be connected to the tool body and have a grip portion extending in a first direction that intersects the drive axis. The actuating element may be provided on a front side of the grip portion and configured to be actuated by a user to command the start of the motor. The grip portion may have, in the first direction, a first end closer to the tool body and a second end further away from the tool body. The actuating element may be arranged in a region of the grip portion that has at least one central position of the grip portion that is substantially equidistant from the first and second ends in the first direction.

[0031] According to this embodiment, the actuating element is arranged in a region that has its center position in the first direction (or the longitudinal direction of the handle). Thus, the actuating element can be easily operated with one or more fingers of a user, regardless of whether the user holds the handle with their thumb on a first end (at the end of the tool body side) or with their thumb on a second end (opposite the tool body side). Furthermore, the needle scaler can be used in various positions, but the orientation in which the handle is held does not substantially affect the operability of the actuating element, so the needle scaler exhibits excellent operability in various positions.

[0032] In addition to or as an alternative to the preceding embodiments, the needle scaler may also have a lighting device arranged to illuminate an area in front of the needles.

[0033] According to this embodiment, the machinability in a dark area is improved.

[0034] Representative non-restrictive embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the drawings. <Erste Ausführungsform>

[0035] A needle scaler 1A according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure is now described with reference to Fig. 1 to 6 described.

[0036] The needle scaler 1A is a relatively small, portable power tool, also known as a needle gun scaler or needle gun. The needle scaler 1A is configured to move elongated needles 91 in an axial direction to remove foreign materials (such as rust and paint) from a surface (hereinafter referred to as a machining surface) of a workpiece using the tips of the needles. The needles 91 can be exchanged for other needles 91, but cannot be exchanged for a tool accessory (such as a tool bit for crushing or chiseling, or a scraper for peeling) of a different type than the needles 91. In other words, the needle scaler 1A of this embodiment is intended for one operation using the needles 91.

[0037] First, the structure of the needle scaler 1A is briefly described.

[0038] As in Fig. As shown in Figures 1 to 3, an outer shell of the needle scaler 1A is defined by a tool body 2A extending along a drive axis DX and an elongated handle 3A projecting from the tool body 2A in a direction that crosses the drive axis DX.

[0039] The tool body 2A accommodates a release mechanism (rust removal mechanism, peeling mechanism, paint stripping mechanism, removal mechanism, scaling mechanism) 9, which includes needles 91, an electric motor 51, and a hammer mechanism 6, which is operably connected to the motor 51 and applies a hammer force to the release mechanism 9 when the motor 51 is driven. The release mechanism 9 is mounted by an end part of the tool body 2A in the extension direction of the drive axis DX. The hammer mechanism 6 is configured to convert a rotary power of the motor 51 into a linear motion and to apply a hammer force to the release mechanism 9 using the action of an air spring, thus moving the needles 91 in the axial direction.

[0040] The handle 3A is a so-called pistol grip and is cantilevered to the tool body 2A. Specifically, one end of the handle 3A is connected to the tool body 2A longitudinally as a base end, and the other end is a free end. In this embodiment, the handle 3A extends substantially perpendicular to the drive axis DX from an end portion of the tool body 2A on the opposite side from the release mechanism 9 in the direction of extension of the drive axis DX. The handle 3A has a grip portion 31 configured to be held by a user and a trigger 35 that is actuated by a user to start the motor 51. When the trigger 35 is pressed, the motor 51 is driven, thus operating the hammer mechanism 6 and the release mechanism 9.

[0041] The structure of the needle scaler 1A will now be described in detail. For the sake of simplicity, the direction of extension of the drive axis DX is defined as a front-back direction of the needle scaler 1A in the following description. In this front-back direction, the side of the release mechanism 9 is defined as the front side of the needle scaler 1A, and the opposite side (to which the handle 3A is connected) is defined as the rear side of the needle scaler 1A. A direction perpendicular to the drive axis DX and corresponding to the direction of extension of the handle 3A is defined as an up-down direction of the needle scaler 1A. The up-down direction of the needle scaler 1A is not synonymous with a vertical direction.In the top-bottom direction, the side of the base end of the handle 3A is defined as the upper side of the needle scaler 1A, and the opposite side (the side of the free end) is defined as the lower side of the needle scaler 1A. A direction perpendicular to the front-back and top-bottom directions of the needle scaler 1A is defined as the left-right direction of the needle scaler 1A.

[0042] The structure of tool body 2A will now be described.

[0043] As in Fig. 3 and Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the tool body 2A is a hollow body extending along the drive axis DX. In this embodiment, the tool body 2A is made of a synthetic resin. A front portion of the tool body 2A, also referred to as a cylinder part 21, has a circular cylindrical shape with a smaller diameter than a rear portion of the tool body 2A, which extends rearward from the cylinder part 21. The cylinder part 21 extends along the drive axis DX. A user can use an additional handle (not shown) that is detachably attached to the cylinder part 21 when necessary. Alternatively, a user can hold the handle 3A with one hand and the cylinder part 21 with the other. The cylinder part 21 accommodates part of the release mechanism 9 and part of the hammer mechanism 6.The rear part of the tool body 2A, which extends rearward from the cylinder part 21, accommodates the motor 51 and part of the hammer mechanism 6.

[0044] A metal bearing 24 is fitted into the tool body 2A and mounted in such a way that it is essentially immovable relative to the tool body 2A. The bearing 24 divides an internal space of the tool body 2A into a space in which the motor 51 is located behind the bearing 24, and a space in which the hammer mechanism 6 is located in front of the bearing 24. Lubricant is contained in the space at the front of the bearing 24. The tool body 2A can be described as an outer housing, and the bearing 24 as an inner housing fixed within the outer housing.

[0045] The elements (mechanisms) arranged within the tool body 2A will now be described.

[0046] First, engine 51 is described. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the motor 51 is arranged within the rear end portion of the tool body 2A. The motor 51 has a stator 511, a rotor 513, and an output shaft 515 that rotates integrally with the rotor 513. In this embodiment, the motor 51 is a brushless direct current (DC) motor, but in other embodiments, the motor 51 can be a brushed motor.

[0047] The output shaft 515 is rotatably supported at its front and rear end sections by bearings 517 and 518, respectively, and extends in the front-to-back direction. The front bearing 517 is held by the bearing 24. The front end section of the output shaft 515 projects into the space at the front of the bearing 24, and a drive gear 516 is formed in this section. The rear bearing 518 is supported by the tool body 2A. A pivot axis RX1 of the output shaft 515 extends parallel to the drive axis DX below the drive axis DX.

[0048] The hammer mechanism 6 will now be described. As in Fig. As shown in Figures 3 to 5, the hammer mechanism 6 is located at the front of the motor 51 (specifically, essentially in a central part in the front-to-back direction) within the tool body 2A. The hammer mechanism 6 comprises an intermediate shaft 60, a motion conversion mechanism 61, and a striking piston 65.

[0049] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 5, the intermediate shaft 60 is rotatably supported at a front and a rear end section by bearings 601 and 602, respectively, and extends within a central section of the tool body 2A in the front-to-back direction. The front bearing 601 is supported by the tool body 2A. The rear bearing 602 is supported by bearing 24. A rotation axis RX2 of the intermediate shaft 60 extends parallel to the drive axis DX and the rotation axis RX1 of the output shaft 515 below the rotation axis RX1. With this arrangement, the distance (a so-called center height) between the drive axis DX and an upper surface of the tool body 2A can be significantly shorter than the distance between the drive axis DX and a lower surface of the tool body 2A.In this embodiment, the drive axis DX and the rotary axes RX1, RX2 are arranged on a plane that essentially divides the tool body 2A into two halves in the left-right direction.

[0050] The intermediate shaft 60 is operationally connected to the output shaft 515 of the motor 51. Specifically, a gear 605 is fixed to a rear end section of the intermediate shaft 60 and engages with the drive gear 516, which is located on the front end section of the output shaft 515. Thus, the intermediate shaft 60 rotates along with the rotation of the output shaft 515.

[0051] The motion conversion mechanism 61 comprises a rotating body 611, which is arranged on the intermediate shaft 60, an oscillating (vibrating) component 613, which is operably (operatively) connected to the rotating body 611, and a piston cylinder 617, which is operably connected to the oscillating component 613.

[0052] The rotating body 611 is fitted onto the intermediate shaft 60 at the front of the gear 605 such that it rotates integrally with the intermediate shaft 60. The oscillating component 613 has a ring section 614 that is fitted onto the rotating body 611 and an arm section 615 that extends from the ring section 614. The rotating body 611 and the oscillating component 613 are configured such that the arm section 615 oscillates (swings) in the forward-backward direction in conjunction with the rotation of the intermediate shaft 60 and the rotating body 611. In this embodiment, the rotating body 611 and the oscillating component 613 are connected via rolling elements and are integrally formed as a single assembly, which is referred to as a self-aligning bearing, wobble bearing, or wobble plate.The rotating body 611 and the oscillating component 613 can, however, be modified in their structure, provided that the rotation of the intermediate shaft 60 can be converted into a linear motion in the forward-reverse direction and transmitted to the piston cylinder 617. For example, the rotating body 611 can be formed integrally with the intermediate shaft 60.

[0053] The piston cylinder 617 is a circular cylindrical component with a base. The piston cylinder 617 is arranged with its opening facing forward within a rear half-section of a cylinder 63. The cylinder 63 of this embodiment is a stepped cylindrical component and has a front half-section with a larger inner diameter and a larger outer diameter than the rear half-section of the cylinder 63. The front and rear half-sections of the cylinder 63 are hereinafter referred to as a large-diameter section 631 and a small-diameter section 635, respectively. A part connecting a rear end of the large-diameter section 631 and a front end of the small-diameter section 635 is referred to as a shoulder section 633. The cylinder 63 is held firmly within the tool body 2A. The mechanism for holding the cylinder 63 will be described in detail later.

[0054] The piston cylinder 617 is configured to slide within the small-diameter section 635 of the cylinder 63 in the forward-backward direction along the drive axis DX. Thus, the small-diameter section 635 of the cylinder 63 is configured as a sliding guide for the piston cylinder 617. A rear end section of the piston cylinder 617 is operably connected to the arm section 615 of the oscillating component 613. The piston cylinder 617 is thus moved back and forth in the forward-backward direction in conjunction with the oscillation of the arm section 615.

[0055] The striking piston 65 is a striking element configured to apply a hammer force to the needles 91 by striking an anvil 95 (described later) of the release mechanism 9 in conjunction with the reciprocating motion of the piston cylinder 617. The striking piston 65 is a cylindrical component and is arranged within the piston cylinder 617 such that it is slidable along the drive axis DX. A space between the piston cylinder 617 and the base of the striking piston 65 defines an air chamber 66, which acts as an air spring. The striking piston 65 is moved back and forth within the piston cylinder 617 by pressure fluctuations generated in the air chamber 66 by the reciprocating motion of the piston cylinder 617. A recess 651, having a circular cross-section, is formed in a central part of a front end surface of the striking piston 65.

[0056] The holding mechanism for cylinder 63 will now be described.

[0057] As in Fig. 4 and Fig. As shown in Figure 5, the cylinder 63 is mounted within the tool body 2A such that it is essentially immovable in the front-back direction relative to the tool body 2A. Specifically, the rear end portion of the small-diameter part 635 of the cylinder 63 is fitted onto a cylindrical part 241 formed on an upper front end portion of the bearing 24. A small flange 636 is formed on a rear portion of the small-diameter part 635 and projects radially outwards. A front end of the cylindrical part 241 of the bearing 24 abuts the small flange 636 via a washer and prevents further rearward movement of the cylinder 63.

[0058] The large-diameter section 631 of the cylinder 63 is fitted into a cylindrical sleeve 22, which is fixed to the cylinder section 21. A front portion of the sleeve 22 is configured as a flange 221 and has a larger diameter than the other portion of the sleeve 22. The flange 221 of the sleeve 22 is located at the front of a front end of the cylinder section 21, and a portion (small-diameter section) extending rearward from the flange 221 is located within the cylinder section 21. In this embodiment, the sleeve 22 is made of metal and is integrally formed with the cylinder section 21, which is made of synthetic resin. Thus, the sleeve 22 and the cylinder section 21 are formed as a single component and cannot be substantially separated from each other. The sleeve 22 can therefore be considered part of the tool body 2A.

[0059] Although the details are described later, the large-diameter section 631 of the cylinder 63 is part of a needle housing 90 of the release mechanism 9. When the release mechanism 9 is actuated, a bearing 93 and an anvil 95 slide within the large-diameter section 631, causing the large-diameter section 631 to generate heat. Thus, the durability of the tool body 2A is improved by providing the metal sleeve 22 to hold the large-diameter section 631, as in this embodiment. Furthermore, the number of parts is reduced during assembly by forming the sleeve 22 integrally with the tool body 2A. In other embodiments, however, the sleeve 22 can be formed separately from the tool body 2A and then fixed within the tool body 2A. Alternatively, the sleeve 22 can be omitted.

[0060] Although the details will be described later, a cylindrical component 900, which is another part of the needle housing 90, is attached to the sleeve 22 by a screw 99 (see Fig. 2) fixed from the front. A rear end of the cylindrical component 900 abuts a front end of the large-diameter part 631 and prevents further forward movement of the cylinder 63.

[0061] An annular groove is formed in an inner circumferential surface of a front end part of the sleeve 22, and an annular elastic sealing element (O-ring) 227 is fitted into the groove. The elastic element 227 seals a gap between an inner circumferential surface of the sleeve 22 and the large-diameter part 631 of the cylinder 63, thus reducing the possibility of lubricant leakage from the tool body 2A to the outside.

[0062] As in Fig. 4 and Fig. As shown in Figure 6, the cylinder 63 and the tool body 2A are non-rotatably connected to each other via a rotation stop ring 64. The rotation stop ring 64 is a ring-like (crown-shaped) component and is fitted onto a rear end part (specifically the small flange 636 of the small-diameter part 635) of the cylinder 63.

[0063] Two recesses 641 are formed in an inner circumferential surface of the rotation stop ring 64 and are arranged opposite each other transversely across the drive axis DX. The recesses 641 have a semicircular cross-section and extend from one end to a central part of the rotation stop ring 64 in the front-back direction. Two semicircular recesses 637 are formed in an outer circumferential surface of the small flange 636 of the small-diameter part 635, corresponding to the recesses 641 of the rotation stop ring 64. The cylinder 63 and the rotation stop ring 64 are connected to each other by means of balls 645, which are arranged in the recesses 637 and 641, respectively, such that they are not rotatable relative to each other about the axis of rotation DX. A large flange 638, which has a larger diameter than the small flange 636 of the cylinder 63, is arranged on the front of the small flange 636.The rotation stop ring 64 is held between the large flange 638 and the washer, which is arranged on the front of the cylindrical part 241 of the bearing 24.

[0064] A projection 643 is formed on approximately one half of an outer circumference of the rotation stop ring 64 and projects radially outwards in a circular arc shape. Grooves 644 are formed in an outer circumferential surface of the projection 643 and are spaced apart from one another. The grooves 644 have a rectangular cross-section and extend from a front end to a rear end of the rotation stop ring 64. Projections 201 are formed corresponding to the grooves 644 in an inner circumferential surface of an upper half-part of a rear part of the cylinder part 21. The projections 201 have a rectangular cross-section and extend in the front-to-back direction. The tool body 2A and the rotation stop ring 64 are connected to each other by engagement between the projections 201 and the grooves 644 such that they are not rotatable relative to each other about the drive axis DX.

[0065] As described above, the needle scaler 1A is pre-configured for a single operation using the needles 91. With such a pre-configured tool, the needles 91 can only be movable in the axial direction (essentially in the front-back direction) relative to the tool body 2A, and from the point of view of work efficiency, it is further preferred that the release mechanism 9 be configured such that it is not rotatable. Therefore, in this embodiment, the cylinder 63 is mounted such that it is essentially not rotatable relative to the tool body 2A via the rotation stop ring 64. In other embodiments, the rotation stop ring 64 may be omitted.

[0066] The detachment mechanism 9 will now be described. As in Fig. 4 and Fig. As shown in Figure 5, the release mechanism 9 is mounted in a front half of the cylinder part 21 of the tool body 2A. The release mechanism 9 of this embodiment comprises the needle housing 90, the bearing 93, the needles 91 which are supported by the bearing 93, and the anvil 95 which transmits the hammer force to the needles 91.

[0067] The needle housing 90 has a cylindrical shape and is mounted coaxially with the cylinder 63 by the front half of the cylinder part 21. The needle housing 90 accommodates the bearing 93, the anvil 95, and part of the needles 91. In this embodiment, the needle housing 90 includes the large-diameter part 631 and the shoulder part 633 of the cylinder 63, and the cylindrical component 900, which is separate from the cylinder 63.

[0068] A front end of the cylindrical component 900 has an annular wall 901 that projects radially inwards. An inner circumference of the wall 901 defines a front end opening 902 of the needle housing 90. A flange 904 is formed on a rear end part of the cylindrical component 900 and projects radially outwards. The cylindrical component 900 is fixed to the sleeve 22, and thus to the tool body 2A, by the screw 99, which is inserted through a hole in the flange 904 and into a screw hole in the flange 221 of the sleeve 22 (see Fig. 2) is screwed in. The needles 91 can be replaced by removing the screw 99 and the cylindrical component 900.

[0069] The large-diameter section 631 of the cylinder 63 and the cylindrical component 900 have essentially the same inner diameter and are arranged such that the rear end of the cylindrical component 900 abuts the front end of the large-diameter section 631 of the cylinder 63. With this arrangement, the large-diameter section 631 and the shoulder section 633 of the cylinder 63 form a rear half-section of the needle housing 90, and the cylindrical component 900 forms a front half-section of the needle housing 90.

[0070] Each of the needles 91 has an elongated cylindrical (rod-like) body 911 and a head 915, which is formed at one end of the body 911 in the axial direction. In this embodiment, the head 915 has a frustoconical shape, the diameter of which decreases in the axial direction towards the other end of the body 911 (a tip of the needle 91).

[0071] The bearing 93 supports the needles 91 such that they are movable in the axial direction. The bearing 93 is arranged within the needle housing 90 such that it is slidable in the front-back direction along the drive axis DX. Specifically, the bearing 93 is a cylindrical component with a base, which has a slightly smaller outer diameter than the needle housing 90, and has a circular base 931 and a cylindrical circumferential wall 935 that extends in the axial direction of the bearing 93 from a circumferential edge of the base 931. The bearing 93 is arranged coaxially with the needle housing 90 within the needle housing 90 in such a way that the circumferential wall 935 extends rearward from the base 931.

[0072] The base 931 has holes 932 formed through the base 931 in the front-back direction. Each of the holes 932 has a rear end portion configured to come into surface contact with a portion of the head 915 of the needle 91 as the needle 91 moves forward. The other portion (unlike the rear end portion) of the hole 932 has a diameter large enough to allow the body 911 of the needle 91 to slide through it.

[0073] The needle 91 is inserted through the hole 932 from the rear of the base 931 with the head 915 at the rear. Although slightly inclined, the needle 91 moves essentially in the front-to-back direction of the needle scaler 1A, while the body 911 slides within the hole 932. The needle 91 can slide in the axial direction relative to the bearing 93 until the head 915 abuts the rear end of the hole 932. A portion of the needle 91, comprising the tip (front end) of the needle 91, always projects forward from the needle housing 90, from the front end of the opening 902 of the needle housing 90.

[0074] The anvil 95 is arranged between the piston 65 of the hammer mechanism 6 and the bearing 93 in the front-back direction. The anvil 95 can be displaced (slided) in the front-back direction along the drive axis DX within the needle housing 90. Specifically, the anvil 95 is a cylindrical stepped component and is arranged coaxially with the needle housing 90 within the needle housing 90. The anvil 95 has a large-diameter section 951, a front small-diameter section 954, a rear small-diameter section 956, and a rear projection 957.

[0075] The large-diameter part 951 is a central part of the anvil 95 in the axial direction (front-to-back direction) and has the largest diameter of the anvil 95. The large-diameter part 951 is configured to slide within the needle housing 90. The large-diameter part 951 can also be described as a sliding part.

[0076] The front small-diameter part 954 projects forward from the large-diameter part 951 and has a smaller diameter than the large-diameter part 951. Thus, the large-diameter part 951 projects radially outward from the front small-diameter part 954 in a flange-like shape behind the front small-diameter part 954. The diameter of the front small-diameter part 954 is slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the circumferential wall 935 of the bearing 93. Therefore, the rear end portion of the circumferential wall 935 of the bearing 93 can slide in the front-back direction relative to the front small-diameter part 954 while it is fitted onto the front small-diameter part 954. Thus, the anvil 95 and the bearing 93 slide essentially integrally within the needle housing 90, so that the anvil 95 is prevented from tilting relative to the needle housing 90, while the overall length of the anvil 95 is reduced in the axial direction.

[0077] With such a structure, a cylindrical space 96 is defined between the base 931 of the bearing 93 and the front small-diameter part 954 radially inside the circumferential wall 935 and in the front-back direction. The rear end part of the needle 91 can move within the space 96 in the front-back direction. A front surface of the front small-diameter part 954 collides with a rear surface of the head 915 and applies a hammer force to the needles 91.

[0078] The rear small-diameter part 956 projects rearward from the large-diameter part 951 and has a smaller diameter than the large-diameter part 951. An annular elastic element (O-ring) 98 is fitted onto the rear small-diameter part 956. Thus, in the radial direction, the elastic element 98 is arranged between the anvil 95 (specifically the rear small-diameter part 956) and the needle housing 90 (specifically the rear half-part). Furthermore, in the front-back direction, the elastic element 98 is arranged between the anvil 95 (specifically the large-diameter part 951) and the rear end part of the needle housing 90 (specifically the shoulder part 633 of the cylinder 63).

[0079] The rear projection 957 extends rearward from the rear small-diameter portion 956. The diameter of the rear projection 957 is specified as smaller than the diameter of the recess 651 formed in the front end surface of the striking piston 65. Although the details are described later, in this embodiment, when the hammer mechanism 6 is actuated, the rear projection 957 is struck directly by the striking piston 65, which is located within the small-diameter portion 635 of the cylinder 63. A rear end surface of the rear projection 957 receives the hammer force from the striking piston 65. In other embodiments, the rear projection 957 of the anvil 95 may be omitted, and the front surface of the striking piston 65 may collide with a rear surface of the small-diameter portion 956.Alternatively, a projection can be formed on the piston 65 and protrude forward, and a front surface of the projection can collide with the anvil 95.

[0080] Furthermore, the release mechanism 9 of this embodiment has a preload element 97, which is arranged between the front end wall 901 of the needle housing 90 and the bearing 93 in the front-back direction. The preload element 97 of this embodiment is a compression coil spring. The preload element 97 preloads the bearing 93 rearward relative to the needle housing 90 and thus to the tool body 2A. As described above, a rear end portion of the circumferential wall 935 of the bearing 93 is fitted onto the front small-diameter portion 954. The rear end of the circumferential wall 935 abuts the front end surface of the large-diameter portion 951 of the anvil 95 by the preload force of the preload element 97, and the anvil 95 is likewise preloaded rearward relative to the needle housing 90.

[0081] Handle 3A and the elements (mechanisms) arranged within it will now be described.

[0082] As in Fig. As shown in Figures 1 to 3, the handle 3A is an elongated hollow body projecting downwards from the rear end portion of the tool body 2A. The handle 3A has a grip portion 31 configured to be held by a user. The grip portion 31 has a diameter suitable for user grip and a length slightly longer than the average width of an adult male hand. In this embodiment, the entire handle 3A, with the exception of the lower end portion 32, forms the grip portion 31.

[0083] The push button 35 is located on the front side of the handle part 31. The push button 35 is a manual actuating component (manually actuated component) configured to be pressed by a user to start the motor 51. In this embodiment, the push button 35 is mounted by an upper end part of the handle part 31 such that it can slide linearly essentially in the front-back direction (the extent of the drive axis DX).

[0084] A switch 38 is located directly behind the push button 35 within the handle part 31. The switch 38 is configured to be switched on and off according to the actuation of the push button 35. In this embodiment, the switch 38 has a switch body 381 and a piston 383, which is biased forward and projects forward from the switch body 381. A projecting end of the piston 383 is held in contact with the push button 35. The switch 38 is configured to be normally off and switched on when the piston 383 is depressed within the switch body 381. The switch 38 is electrically connected to a controller 50 (described later).

[0085] In an initial state, in which the push button 35 is biased forward by the piston 383 and is not subject to any external force to the rear, the push button 35 is held in its forwardmost position. When the push button 35 is in the forwardmost position, the switch 38 is in the off state. When the push button 35 is pressed and moved backward to a predetermined position while the piston 383 is depressed, the switch 38 is turned on.

[0086] A lower end section 32A of the handle 3A has a rectangular, box-like shape that is larger than the diameter of the handle section 31. A lighting unit 39 is arranged on the front side of the lower end section 32A. The lighting unit 39 has a light source (such as an LED) and is mounted by the lower end section 32A to illuminate a working area of ​​the needles 91 (i.e., an area on the front of the cylinder section 21). Specifically, the lighting unit 39 is arranged to illuminate diagonally forward and upward through an opening formed in the lower end section 32A.

[0087] The control unit 50 is arranged within the lower end section 32A. The control unit 50 has at least one processor (such as a CPU) or processing circuit and controls the operation of the needle scaler 1A. In this embodiment, the control unit 50 controls the driving of the motor 51 and the driving of the lighting unit 39. Specifically, the control unit 50 drives the motor 51 and illuminates the lighting unit 39 while the switch 38 is in an on state.

[0088] A battery mounting part 4, to which a battery 40 can be mounted as a power source, is provided in the lower end section 32A of the handle 3A. The battery 40 is mounted on the battery mounting part 4, and the majority of the battery 40 is exposed below the lower end section 32A of the handle 3A. The structure of the battery 40 is known and is therefore not shown or described in detail in this embodiment. In other embodiments, the power source of the needle scaler 1A can be an external alternating current power source (AC power source) instead of the battery 40.

[0089] The operation of the needle scaler 1A will now be described.

[0090] A user holds the handle 31 and positions the tips of the needles 91 near the surface to be machined. When the user presses the trigger 35, the motor 51 is driven, and the hammer mechanism 6 is operated to apply a hammering force to the release mechanism 9. Specifically, the air pressure inside the air chamber 66 fluctuates with the reciprocating movement of the piston cylinder 617, causing the striking piston 65 to slide (be moved) back and forth within the piston cylinder 617. As the piston cylinder 617 moves forward, the air in the air chamber 66 is compressed, increasing the internal pressure. The striking piston 65 then moves forward at high speed due to the action of the air spring and collides with the anvil 95.

[0091] The anvil 95 transfers the kinetic energy of the impact piston 65 to the bearing 93, which strikes the front end surface of the large-diameter part 951 of the anvil 95. The anvil 95 and the bearing 93 move forward against the preload force of the preloading component 97. The front surface of the anvil 95 strikes the heads 915 of the needles 91, thus applying a hammer force to the needles 91. The needles 91 move in the axial direction, and their tips collide with a workpiece, removing foreign material from a machining surface of the workpiece. As the needles 91 rebound in response to the collision with the workpiece, they collide with the anvil 95.At the same time, the elastic element 98, which is arranged between the rear surface of the large diameter part 951 of the anvil 95 and the rear part of the needle housing 90 (the shoulder part 633), dampens the impact of the collision.

[0092] As described above, the needle scaler 1A of this embodiment features the hammer mechanism 6, which is driven by the power of the electric motor 51. The hammer mechanism 6 moves the impact piston 65 back and forth by the action of the air spring, or more specifically by pressure fluctuations generated in the air chamber 66 by the reciprocating movement of the piston, and applies the hammer force to the needles 91 of the release mechanism 9. Therefore, the needle scaler 1A of this embodiment is designed with excellent durability compared to a structure in which the piston and the impact piston are connected by a mechanical spring (such as a compression coil spring) to apply the hammer force. <Zweite Ausführungsform>

[0093] A needle scaler 1B according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure is now described with reference to Fig. The needle scaler 1B is described in sections 7 to 11. The needle scaler 1B differs from the needle scaler 1A of the first embodiment primarily in the structures of a tool body 2B and a handle 3B, but otherwise has essentially the same structure as the needle scaler 1A. Therefore, in the following description, components or structures that are essentially identical to those of the first embodiment will be given the same reference numerals and will either not be described or will only be briefly described. The structures that differ from the first embodiment will now be described in detail.

[0094] As shown in Figures 7 and 8, the needle scaler 1B of this embodiment has a tool body 2B which extends along the drive axis DX and accommodates the motor 51, the hammer mechanism 6, and the release mechanism 9. In this embodiment, a handle 3B is cantilevered to a rear end part 25 of the tool body 2B and extends from a lower end of the rear end part 25 in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to the drive axis DX.

[0095] The tool body 2B and the elements (mechanisms) arranged therein are described first. The tool body 2B of this embodiment differs from the tool body 2A of the first embodiment mainly in that the battery mounting part 4 is provided in the rear end part 25 and the control unit 50 is arranged in the rear end part 25.

[0096] As in Fig. 8 and Fig. As shown in Figure 9, the rear end section 25 of the tool body 2B has a rectangular, box-like shape. Side wall sections 253 of the rear end section 25 project rearward from a rear wall section 251 of the tool body 2B. In this embodiment, the rear wall section 251 is generally a rectangular wall with a rear surface that is substantially perpendicular to the drive axis DX. In other embodiments, however, the rear wall section 251 may be inclined relative to the drive axis DX. The battery mounting part 4, to which the battery 40 can be mounted, is provided in the rear end section 25.

[0097] The detailed structures of the battery 40 and the battery mounting part 4 of this embodiment are now described.

[0098] The Battery 40 is a rechargeable battery (also referred to as a battery pack) and can be mounted on other types of power plant equipment, including the Needle Screeder 1B. As described in Fig. 8 and Fig. As shown in Figure 10, the battery 40 has a general rectangular parallelepiped (hexagonal) shape. A pair of guide rails 403 and a connector 405, which has terminals, are provided on a surface (hereinafter referred to as a mounting surface 400) of the battery 40. The guide rails 403 project from the mounting surface 400 and extend parallel to each other in a longitudinal direction of the battery 40. The connector 405 is arranged between the guide rails 403. A direction in which the guide rails 403 face each other defines a lateral direction of the battery 40. A direction that is substantially perpendicular to the mounting surface 400 defines a vertical direction of the battery 40.

[0099] As in Fig. As shown in Figures 8 to 10, the battery mounting part 4 has an engagement part 41, which can physically engage with the battery 40, and a connector part 45, which can be electrically connected to the battery 40. The engagement part 41 has a pair of guide grooves 42, each formed in the side wall parts 253. The guide grooves 42 are long linear grooves, each formed in the inner surfaces of the side wall parts 253. The guide grooves 42 extend downwards in the top-bottom direction, parallel to each other, from an upper end of the side wall parts 253. The guide grooves 42 are configured to slide in engagement with the guide rails 403 of the battery 40. The connector part 45 is located on the rear wall part 251 (between the guide grooves 42). The connector part 45 has terminals which can each be electrically connected to the terminals of the battery 40.

[0100] To mount the battery 40 to the battery mounting part 4, the guide rails 403 of the battery 40 are fitted into the guide grooves 42 of the battery mounting part 4 from above, while the battery 40 is held by the guide rail 403, which extends in the top-bottom direction of the needle scaler 1B. Specifically, in this embodiment, one mounting direction of the battery 40 on the battery mounting part 4 corresponds to the downward direction of the needle scaler 1B. When the battery 40 is moved downward to a predetermined mounting position, the connector part 405 (the terminals) of the battery 40 is electrically connected to the connector part 45 (the terminals), and the mounting of the battery 40 is complete.

[0101] An excluded part 47 is formed on an upper end part of the battery mounting part 4 (above the connector part 45) and is configured to engage with a locking component 407 (see Fig. 8), which is provided on the mounting surface 400 of the battery 40. When the battery 40 is placed in the mounting position, the locking component 407 engages with the recessed part 47 and restricts movement of the battery 40 in the up-down direction relative to the battery mounting part 4.

[0102] When the battery 40 is mounted on the battery mounting part 4, the rear wall section 251 faces the mounting surface 400 of the battery 40. In this embodiment, the drive axis DX passes through the battery mounting part 4 (specifically the rear wall section 251) and the battery 40. Thus, the drive axis DX passes through the battery mounting part 4 (specifically the rear wall section 251) and the battery 40 when the needle scaler 1B is viewed in a direction perpendicular to the drive axis DX and a longitudinal axis of the handle 3B (the handle part 31) (specifically from the left or right side). Furthermore, the drive axis DX also passes through the battery mounting part 4 and the battery 40 when the needle scaler 1B is viewed in the longitudinal direction of the handle 3B (specifically from above or below).In this embodiment, the drive axis DX passes through the centers of the battery mounting part 4 and the battery 40 in the left-right direction.

[0103] To remove the battery 40 from the battery mounting part 4, a release button 408 is used (see Fig. 8), which is provided adjacent to the locking component 407 on the battery 40, is pressed to unlock the locking component 407 from the removed part 47. Essentially, the battery 40 is lifted upwards and removed, while the guide rails 403 slide in the guide grooves 42. Specifically, in this embodiment, the direction of removal of the battery 40 from the battery mounting part 4 is defined as the upward direction of the needle scaler 1B.

[0104] In this embodiment, the guide grooves 42 of the battery mounting part 4 extend in the top-bottom direction, and thus the longitudinal direction of the battery 40, positioned in the mounting position, essentially corresponds to the top-bottom direction of the needle scaler 1B. Therefore, the overall length of the tool body 2B with the battery 40 mounted on it is reduced in the front-back direction compared to a structure in which the guide grooves 42 extend in the front-back direction parallel to the drive axis DX. Furthermore, the guide grooves 42 are arranged symmetrically to a plane containing the drive axis DX and the longitudinal axis of the handle 3B, and the mounted battery 40 also has an essentially symmetrical shape to this plane. Thus, the tool body 2B with the battery 40 mounted on it is well balanced in the left-right direction.

[0105] Furthermore, the guide grooves 42 are configured to receive the battery 40 from above. Thus, the battery 40, when placed in the mounting position, projects relatively far upwards from the battery mounting part 4, but also slightly downwards. Various types of batteries 40 with different sizes (specifically length and height) can be mounted on the battery mounting part 4. The extent of the upward projection of the batteries 40 from the battery mounting part 4 varies depending on the type of battery 40, but every battery 40 projects slightly downwards from the battery mounting part 4.

[0106] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 8, the arrangement of the motor 51, the hammer mechanism 6, and the release mechanism 9 in the tool body 2B is the same as in the first embodiment. However, in this embodiment, the control unit 50 is not located within the handle 3B, but rather within the rear end section 25 of the tool body 2B. Specifically, the control unit 50 is located between the motor 51 and the battery mounting part 4 in the front-to-back direction. The drive axis DX passes through the motor 51 and the control unit 50, as well as through the battery mounting part 4.

[0107] Handle 3B and the elements (mechanisms) arranged within it will now be described.

[0108] As in Fig. 7 and Fig. As shown in Figure 8, the handle 3B of this embodiment differs from the handle 3A of the first embodiment mainly in the structure of the lower end part 32B and in that the push button 35 is arranged in a central area of ​​the handle part 31 in the longitudinal direction.

[0109] The handle 3B is an elongated hollow body comprising a handle part 31. The entire handle 3B, with the exception of the lower end part 32B, forms the handle part 31.

[0110] The handle 3B of this embodiment extends downwards from a lower end of a portion of the tool body 2B, located slightly forward of the battery mounting part 4 in the front-back direction. Thus, the handle 3B is positioned on the same side as the axis of rotation RX1 of the output shaft 515 and the axis of rotation RX2 of the intermediate shaft 60, relative to the drive axis DX in the top-down direction. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the handle 3B is located behind the stator 511 of the motor 51 and the hammer mechanism 6, and forward of the battery mounting part 4 in the front-back direction. The control unit 50 is located in an area directly above the handle portion 31 within the tool body 2B.

[0111] As described above, in this embodiment the battery 40, which is mounted on the battery mounting part 4, protrudes slightly downwards from the battery mounting part 4. An area directly below the battery 40 and directly behind the handle part 31 is provided as a space (where nothing exists) for the user's hand to hold the handle part 31.

[0112] The lower end part 32B of the handle 3B does not have a rectangular, box-like shape as in the first embodiment, but projects slightly forward from the handle part 31. The illumination unit 39 is arranged in this projecting part. The illumination unit 39 is mounted by the lower end part 32B for illuminating a working area of ​​the needle 91.

[0113] The push button 35 is arranged on the front side of the handle part 31. In this embodiment, the push button 35 is located in a region including the center position CL of the handle part 31 in the longitudinal direction (essentially in the top-bottom direction of the needle scaler 1B). The center position CL is a position that is substantially equidistant from both ends (i.e., an upper end close to the tool body 2B, which is also the base end of the handle 3B, and a lower end close to the free end of the handle 3B) of a front surface of the handle part 31 in the longitudinal direction of the handle part 31. Specifically, the push button 35 is located in a central region of the handle part 31 in the longitudinal direction and away from the upper and lower ends of the front surface of the handle part 31. This central region is a region that includes the center position CL of the handle part 31 in the longitudinal direction.

[0114] The push button 35 of this embodiment is mounted by the handle part 31 such that it can slide linearly, essentially in the front-back direction (the direction of extension of the drive axis DX). Specifically, an opening 312 is formed in the front wall part 311, which defines the front surface of the handle part 31. The push button 35 is arranged such that it partially projects from the front wall part 311 through the opening 312. A switch 38 is located directly behind the push button 35 within the handle part 31. The push button 35 can be moved in the front-back direction while sliding on plate-like guides that project rearward from the front wall part 311 at the upper and lower sides of the opening 312, and on a plate-like guide formed on the switch 38.

[0115] As described above, the needle scaler 1B of this embodiment has a handle 3B that projects from the tool body 2B, which extends along the drive axis DX, in a direction that crosses the drive axis DX. The trigger 35 is configured to be pressed to command the starting of the motor 51 and is located in an area that has the center position CL of the handle part 31 in the longitudinal direction. Thus, the trigger 35 can be easily pressed with one or more fingers of a user, regardless of whether the user holds the handle part 31 in an orientation with a thumb at the upper end (the side of the tool body 2B) of the handle part 31 (hereinafter referred to as a normal orientation) or in an orientation with the thumb at the lower end (the side of the lower end part 32B) of the handle part 31 (hereinafter referred to as a reverse orientation).

[0116] In the first embodiment of the needle scaler 1A, the push button 35 is located in the upper end part of the handle 31. This arrangement allows the user to hold the handle 31 in its normal orientation and press the push button 35 with an index finger. However, when the handle 31 is held in the reversed orientation, the user must press the push button 35 with a little finger, making it difficult to apply sufficient pressure. In the first embodiment of the needle scaler 1B, the user can apply essentially the same pressure to the push button 35 whether holding the handle 31 in its normal or reversed orientation.

[0117] Furthermore, the push button 35 is positioned away from the upper and lower ends of the handle part 31 and is mounted in such a way that it can slide in the front-back direction. Thus, the push button 35 has a simple structure that can be easily operated by a user holding the handle part 31 either in its normal or reversed orientation.

[0118] Although not described or shown in detail, in a further embodiment an elongated shift lever may be provided instead of the push button 35. The shift lever is rotatably mounted at an end by a lower end or an upper end of the handle part 31 and is configured to extend to a position beyond the center position CL of the handle part 31 (or to have a length greater than half the longitudinal length of the handle part 31). Such a shift lever also ensures that the actuating component can be easily pressed with one or more of the user's fingers in both the normal and reverse orientations.

[0119] The needle scaler 1B can be used in various positions. Specifically, the side on which the handle 3B is positioned relative to the drive axis DX in the vertical direction, and the angle of the drive axis DX relative to a workpiece surface, can be changed according to the type of machining and the position and angle of the workpiece surface. In the needle scaler 1B of this embodiment described above, the orientation in which the handle part 31 is held does not substantially impair the operability of the trigger 35. Thus, the needle scaler 1B exhibits excellent operability in various positions, as described in the following non-limiting examples.

[0120] For example, during a process of crushing a wall surface at the front of the user, the user can hold the handle 31 in its normal orientation or hold the needle scaler 1B in a position (hereinafter referred to as a normal position) in which the handle 3B is positioned below the drive axis DX in the vertical direction and protrudes downwards (or obliquely downwards). Alternatively, the user can hold the handle 31 in the reverse orientation or hold the needle scaler 1B in a position (hereinafter referred to as a reverse position) in which the handle 3B is positioned above the drive axis DX in the vertical direction and protrudes upwards (or obliquely upwards).

[0121] In a work process for removing foreign materials from a machining surface, as in Fig. As shown in Figure 11, it is preferred that the angle between a machining surface S and the drive axis DX be as small as possible. Accordingly, the user can easily perform the operation by holding the needle scaler 1B in the reversed position and the handle 31 in the reversed orientation.

[0122] Furthermore, in the needle scaler 1B of this embodiment, the battery mounting part 4 is arranged in the rear end part 25 of the tool body 2B such that the drive axis DX passes through the battery mounting part 4 and the battery 40. With this arrangement, compared to the needle scaler 1A of the first embodiment, in which the battery 40 is mounted at the lower end of the handle 3A, the needle scaler 1B is improved in terms of operation and / or machining when used in various positions, as described below.

[0123] Firstly, when the needle scaler 1B is used with the handle 31 held in the reversed orientation, the user can experience similar operability and a similar feel to those obtained when the needle scaler 1B is used with the handle 31 held in the normal orientation. Specifically, when the needle scaler 1A of the first embodiment is used in the reversed position, a relatively heavy battery 40 is located above the drive axis DX in the vertical direction, making operation by the user difficult and unstable. However, the needle scaler 1B of this embodiment can be operated stably even in the reversed position. In this embodiment, the handle 31 extends in a direction substantially perpendicular to the drive axis DX.This arrangement supports the realization of similar usability and user experience in the reverse orientation to those in the normal orientation.

[0124] Secondly, when the needle scaler 1B is used in the position where the handle 3B projects in one direction towards a machining surface of the workpiece, the angle formed between the drive axis DX and the machining surface of the workpiece can be smaller than that of the needle scaler 1A of the first embodiment. Therefore, the position where the handle 3B projects in one direction towards the surface of the workpiece can be used in a wider variety of operations.

[0125] Thirdly, in the needle scaler 1B, with the battery 40 mounted on the battery mounting part 4, the motor 51 and the hammer mechanism 6 are arranged at the front of the handle part 31 in the front-to-back direction, while the heavy battery 40 is arranged at the rear of the handle part 31. This arrangement achieves excellent operability when the needle scaler 1B is used in the position in which the drive shaft DX extends in a substantially horizontal direction.

[0126] The battery 40 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape, that is, under the outer surfaces of the battery 40, which is mounted on the battery mounting part 4, the mounting surface 400 and the opposite surface 401 are substantially perpendicular to the drive axis DX (see Fig. 8) In this embodiment, all directions from the drive axis DX, the rotation axis RX1 of the motor 51, and the rotation axis RX2 of the intermediate shaft 60 pass through the battery mounting part 4 (specifically the rear wall part 251) and the surface 401 of the battery 40. Thus, the needle scaler 1B is stably mounted when the surface 401 of the battery 40, which is mounted on the battery mounting part 4, is placed on a substantially horizontal plane (such as the upper surface of a workbench or a floor surface).

[0127] Regarding the other effects achieved by providing essentially the same elements or structures as in the needle scaler 1A of the first embodiment, the needle scaler 1B also exhibits the same effects as those described in the first embodiment. <Dritte Ausführungsform>

[0128] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 12, a needle scaler 1C according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure differs from the needle scaler 1A of the first embodiment in that a hammer mechanism 6C is provided instead of the hammer mechanism 6, but otherwise has essentially the same structures as the first embodiment. In the needle scaler 1C, as in the needle scaler 1A of the first embodiment, the battery mounting part 4, on which the battery 40 can be mounted as a power source, is provided on the lower end part 32A of the handle 3A.

[0129] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 12, the hammer mechanism 6C is of the so-called mechanical spring type, which applies a hammer force to the needles 91 using a mechanical spring. The other structure of the hammer mechanism 6C is essentially the same as that of the hammer mechanism 6.

[0130] The hammer mechanism 6C is configured to convert the rotary power of the motor 51 into a linear motion and to apply an axial hammer force to the release mechanism 9 by utilizing the elastic force of an elastic element, thus moving the needles 91 in the axial direction. The hammer mechanism 6C comprises a rod 616, a compression helical spring 68, and a striking piston 65C.

[0131] The rod 616 is a metal component with a columnar shape, such as a cylinder or a polygonal column. The rod 616 is located within the small-diameter section 635 of the cylinder 63. The rod 616 is moved back and forth within the small-diameter section 635 in conjunction with the oscillation of the arm section 615. A spring receptacle 612 is formed at a rear end of the rod 616 and projects radially outwards. A bolt 619 is attached to the center of a front end of the rod 616, and a washer 618 is fixed to the front end of the rod 616 by the bolt 619.

[0132] The striking piston 65C is a striking element configured to apply a hammer force to the needles 91 by striking the anvil 95 of the release mechanism 9 in conjunction with the reciprocating movement of the rod 616. The striking piston 65C differs in shape from the striking piston 65 of the first embodiment, but otherwise has essentially the same structure.

[0133] The impact piston 65C has a general cylindrical shape with a stepped through-hole 654 on its inner side. The impact piston 65C is arranged within the small-diameter section 635 of the cylinder 63 such that it can slide along the drive axis DX. Thus, the small-diameter section 635 of the cylinder 63 is configured as a sliding guide for the impact piston 65C.

[0134] A recess 653, having a circular cross-section, is formed in a central part of a front end surface of the piston 65C. The piston 65C is arranged with its open side facing forward and is configured to slide along the radial outside of the rod 616. The recess 653 in the front end of the piston 65C has a base 652 that has a smaller diameter than the front end of the recess 653. The rod 616 is inserted into the through-hole 654 formed by the base 652, and the piston 65C is configured to slide along the radial outside of the rod 616 in the front-back direction relative to the rod 616.

[0135] The washer 618 has a larger outer diameter than the outer diameter of the front end of the rod 616. As the piston 65C moves forward, the washer 618 abuts the base 652 of the piston 65C, thus restricting further forward movement. In the position where the washer 618 restricts the movement of the piston 65C, the washer 618 and the bolt 619 are received in the recess 653 of the piston 65C, and the front end of the piston 65C is located in front of the washer 618 and the front end of the bolt 619.

[0136] The compression helical spring 68 is mounted on the rod 616 and positioned on the radial outer side of the rod 616. The compression helical spring 68 elastically connects the rod 616 and the striking piston 65C. Specifically, the rear end of the compression helical spring 68 is supported by the spring receptacle 612 of the rod 616 and biases the striking piston 65C forward. The hammer mechanism 6C can incorporate any elastic element, such as a leaf spring or a disc spring, instead of the compression helical spring 68. Furthermore, the hammer mechanism 6C can incorporate a spring that is not limited to a metal spring but is made of any elastic material, including an elastomer and a polymer material, such as urethane rubber.

[0137] The hammer mechanism 6C is driven by the motor 51 and applies a hammer force to the release mechanism 9. The striking piston 65C absorbs the elastic force of the compression coil spring 68 along with the reciprocating motion of the rod 616 and slides in the forward-backward direction within the cylinder 63. Specifically, when the rod 616 is moved forward, the compression coil spring 68 is compressed, and the striking piston 65C moves forward due to the preload force of the compression coil spring 68. The front end of the striking piston 65C then collides with the rear surface of the small-diameter rear portion 956 of the anvil 95 and applies a hammer force to the needles 91. The compression coil spring 68 elastically dampens the impact of the collision between the striking piston 65C and the anvil 95.

[0138] As described above, the needle scaler 1C of this embodiment features a mechanical spring-type hammer mechanism 6C. The hammer mechanism 6C moves the impact piston 65C back and forth by the elastic force of the compression coil spring 68, which is generated by the reciprocating movement of the rod 616, and applies the hammer force to the needles 91 of the release mechanism 9. Thus, the hammer mechanism 6C is realized with a relatively simple structure, and the productivity of the needle scaler 1C is improved. Furthermore, the hammer force of the impact piston 65C can be easily adjusted by adjusting the elastic force of the compression coil spring 68.

[0139] The needle scaler 1C of this embodiment has the battery mounting part 4, on which the battery 40 can be mounted. Therefore, the mechanical spring-type needle scaler 1C offers excellent ease of use and portability compared to a mechanical spring-type needle scaler 1C that can be connected to an external mains power source. <Vierte Ausführungsform>

[0140] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 13, a needle scaler 1D according to a fourth embodiment according to the present disclosure differs from the needle scaler 1A of the first embodiment in that a tool body 2D and a handle 3D are provided instead of the tool body 2A and the handle 3A respectively, and in that a touch switch 37 is provided instead of the push button 35 and the switch 38, but on the other hand has essentially the same structure as the needle scaler 1A.

[0141] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 13, the needle scaler 1D of this embodiment has the tool body 2D, which extends along the drive axis DX. The tool body 2D accommodates the motor 51, the hammer mechanism 6, and the release mechanism 9, which are arranged axially. In this embodiment, the tool body 2D also serves as the handle 3D. Thus, the needle scaler 1D has a so-called straight handle 3D. Specifically, a rear portion of the tool body 2D, extending rearward from the cylinder part 21, serves as the handle 31. Therefore, the longitudinal direction of the handle 3D is essentially parallel to the drive axis DX. For example, a user can hold a rear half of the tool body 2D with one hand and additionally hold the cylinder part 21 with the other hand.By integrating the 3D handle with the 2D tool body, the size of the 1D needle scaler is reduced in the top-bottom direction, thus improving the transportability and machinability of the 1D needle scaler at a narrow point.

[0142] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 13, the touch switch 37 is, for example, of the capacitive type and is provided at an upper end of the handle 3D. The touch switch 37 receives a touch input from the user and outputs an ON signal to the controller 50. The touch switch 37 is also referred to as a touch sensor and a touch button. When it receives the ON signal, the controller 50 supplies electrical power to the motor 51 and drives the motor 51. When the touch switch 37 is not actuated, it stops outputting the ON signal to the controller 50, and the motor 51 stops. The placement of the touch switch 37 is not limited to the upper side of the tool body 2D; rather, the touch switch 37 can be placed in any position, such as on the left, right, or lower side of the tool body 2D.

[0143] Instead of the touch switch 37, the needle scaler 1D can have a push-button switch that receives a push-button actuation by the user and outputs an ON signal to the controller 50, or a mechanical push-button switch, such as a momentary switch (tactile switch). Alternatively, instead of the touch switch 37, the needle scaler 1D can have various types of actuators, such as a slide switch or a toggle lever that is switched on and off by a sliding action in one direction, or a push-button switch or a paddle switch (rocker switch) that is switched on and off by a push action.

[0144] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 13, the battery 40 and the battery mounting part 4 have essentially the same structures as in the second embodiment. In particular, the battery mounting part 4 is provided in the rear end part 25 of the tool body 2D. The mounting direction of the battery 40 on the battery mounting part 4 essentially corresponds to the downward direction of the needle scaler 1D. When the battery 40 is mounted on the battery mounting part 4, the rear wall part 251 of the tool body 2D faces the mounting surface 400 of the battery 40.

[0145] In this embodiment, the drive shaft DX passes through the battery mounting part 4 (specifically the rear wall section 251) and the battery 40. Thus, the drive shaft DX passes through the battery mounting part 4 (specifically the rear wall section 251) and the battery 40 when the needle scaler 1D is viewed in the left-right direction. Furthermore, the drive shaft DX also passes through the battery mounting part 4 and the battery 40 when the needle scaler 1D is viewed in the top-bottom direction. The drive shaft DX passes through the centers of the battery mounting part 4 and the battery 40 in the left-right direction.

[0146] The mounting direction of the battery 40 in the battery mounting part 4 can essentially correspond to the front-back direction of the needle scaler 1D. For example, the guide grooves 42 can extend parallel to the drive shaft DX in the front-back direction. With this configuration, the size of the needle scaler 1D is reduced in the top-bottom direction. In this case, the drive shaft DX may or may not pass through the battery mounting part 4 and the battery 40.

[0147] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 13, the arrangement of the control unit 50 within the tool body 2D is the same as in the second embodiment. Thus, the control unit 50 is arranged within the rear end section 25 of the tool body 2D and extends in the top-bottom direction. Specifically, the control unit 50 is arranged between the motor 51 and the battery mounting part 4 in the front-back direction. The drive axis DX passes through the motor 51 and the control unit 50, as well as through the battery mounting part 4. It can also be said that the control unit 50 is arranged within the rear end section of the handle 3D, which extends in the front-back direction.

[0148] The control unit 50 can, however, be arranged such that it extends in the front-back direction within the tool body 2D. For example, if the guide grooves 42 of the battery mounting part 4 extend in the front-back direction parallel to the drive axis DX, the control unit 50 and the battery mounting part 4 can be rationally arranged within the tool body 2D by arranging the control unit 50 parallel to the battery mounting part 4. <Fünfte Ausführungsform>

[0149] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 14, the needle scaler 1E according to a fifth embodiment of the present disclosure is a modification of the needle scaler 1D of the fourth embodiment. The needle scaler 1E differs from the needle scaler 1D of the fourth embodiment in the structure of the hammer mechanism 6C, but otherwise has essentially the same structure as the needle scaler 1D of the fourth embodiment. The hammer mechanism 6C is of a so-called mechanical spring type, which is described above in the third embodiment. Thus, as in Fig. As shown in Figure 14, the needle scaler 1E can be provided with a combination of the straight handle 3D, which is integral with the tool body 2D, and the mechanical spring hammer mechanism 6C. <Sechste Ausführungsform>

[0150] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 15, a needle scaler 1F according to a sixth embodiment of the present disclosure differs from the needle scaler 1A of the first embodiment in that a handle 3F is provided instead of the handle 3A, but on the other hand has essentially the same structure as that of the first embodiment.

[0151] The handle 3F is connected to the rear end part 25 of the tool body 2A. The handle 3F is ring-shaped and has a general D-shape when the needle scaler 1F is viewed from left to right. The handle 3F is also referred to as a D-shaped handle. The handle 3F has a grip part 31, an upper extension part 340, a front extension part 342, and a lower extension part 344.

[0152] The handle part 31 extends in the top-bottom direction. A push button 35, which has the same structure as the push button 35 of the first embodiment, is provided on the front side of the upper end part of the handle part 31. The arrangement of the push button 35 differs from that of the first embodiment. Specifically, in this embodiment, the push button 35 is arranged in a position such that the drive axis DX passes through the handle part 31 and the push button 35 when the needle scaler 1F is viewed in the left-right direction. Furthermore, the drive axis DX also passes through the handle part 31 and the push button 35 when the needle scaler 1F is viewed in the top-bottom direction.In this arrangement, a user can easily perform the process of pressing the needles 91 onto a workpiece in the axial direction (in the front-back direction) in accordance with the extension direction of the drive axis DX, while holding the handle 3F and operating the pusher 35.

[0153] The upper extension part 340 extends rearward from the upper side of the rear end part 25 of the tool body 2A and is connected to the upper end part of the handle part 31. The lower extension part 344 extends forward from the lower end part of the handle part 31.

[0154] The control 50 is housed in the lower extension section 344 and extends in the front-back direction. The arrangement and structure of the control 50 are essentially the same as those of the control 50 of the first embodiment. Specifically, the control 50 is arranged in a position such that a line perpendicular to the drive axis DX passes through the control 50 and the handle section 31 when the needle scaler 1F is viewed in the left-right direction. The control 50 can be arranged at a location other than in the lower extension section 344 and can be arranged to extend in the top-bottom direction.

[0155] The battery mounting part 4 is provided in the front-back direction at a lower end portion of the lower extension portion 344 or at a lower end portion 32F of the handle 3F. The arrangement and structure of the battery mounting part 4 are essentially the same as those of the battery mounting part 4 of the first embodiment. In particular, the battery mounting part 4 is arranged in a position such that a line perpendicular to the drive axis DX passes through the battery mounting part 4 and the handle 3F when the needle scaler 1F is viewed in the left-right direction. The battery mounting part 4 can be arranged at a location other than at the lower end portion 32F of the handle 3F, such as a rear end of the handle portion 31, or it can be arranged to extend in the top-bottom direction.

[0156] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 15, the front extension part 342 connects the lower extension part 344 and the rear end part 25 of the tool body 2A. Specifically, the front extension part 342 extends substantially upwards from a front end part of the lower extension part 344 and is connected to the lower side of the rear end part 25 of the tool body 2A.

[0157] In the needle scaler 1F of this embodiment, the handle 3F is designed in a ring shape, which improves the strength of the handle 3F compared, for example, to a cantilever handle such as the handle 3A of the first embodiment. Furthermore, when the needle scaler 1F is operated in the reverse position, the user can improve machinability by holding the handle part 31 with one hand and additionally holding the front extension part 342 with the other hand. When operating in the reverse position, additionally holding the front extension part 342 makes it easier for the user to position an upper end of the tool body 2A close to a machining surface than if they were holding the cylinder part 21, thus improving machinability. <Siebte Ausführungsform>

[0158] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 16, a needle scaler 1G according to a seventh embodiment of the present disclosure is a modification of the needle scaler 1F of the sixth embodiment. The needle scaler 1G differs from the needle scaler 1F of the sixth embodiment in the structure of the hammer mechanism 6C, but otherwise has essentially the same structure as the needle scaler 1F of the sixth embodiment. The hammer mechanism 6C is of a so-called mechanical spring type, which is described above in the third embodiment. Thus, as in Fig. As shown in Figure 16, the needle scaler 1G can be provided with a combination of the so-called D-shaped handle 3F, which is connected to the rear end part 25 of the tool body 2A, and the hammer mechanism 6C of the mechanical spring type. <Achte Ausführungsform>

[0159] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 17, a needle scaler 1H according to an eighth embodiment differs from the needle scaler 1A of the first embodiment in that a handle 3H, a tool body 2H and a hammer mechanism 6H are provided instead of the handle 3A, the tool body 2A and the hammer mechanism 6, respectively, but on the other hand has essentially the same structure as the needle scaler 1A of the first embodiment.

[0160] The tool body 2A of the first embodiment extends along the drive axis DX, but the tool body 2H is generally L-shaped. Specifically, the tool body 2H has a cylindrical part 21 and a body extension part 27. The cylindrical part 21 has essentially the same structure as the cylindrical part 21 of the first embodiment and is a hollow body extending along the drive axis DX. The cylindrical part 21 accommodates part of the release mechanism 9 and part of the hammer mechanism 6H.

[0161] The body extension section 27 is connected to a rear end of the cylinder section 21. The body extension section 27 extends substantially downwards from the rear end of the cylinder section 21. The body extension section 27 accommodates the motor 51 and part of the hammer mechanism 6H. The motor 51 is located directly below a motion conversion mechanism 61H. Specifically, the motor 51 is located below the drive axis DX and the axis of rotation RX2 when the needle scaler 1H is viewed in the left-right direction. With this arrangement of the motor 51 below the drive axis DX and the axis of rotation RX2, the length of the needle scaler 1H is reduced in the front-back direction. In this embodiment, the axis of rotation RX1 of the output shaft 515 of the motor 51 extends in the top-bottom direction perpendicular to the drive axis DX and the axis of rotation RX2.

[0162] The hammer mechanism 6H differs from the hammer mechanism 6 of the first embodiment in that the motion conversion mechanism 61H has a gear 605H instead of the gear 605, but otherwise has essentially the same structure as the hammer mechanism 6 of the first embodiment. The gear 605H is arranged with rearward-facing teeth and engages with the drive gear 516, which is formed at the extension end of the output shaft 515, which extends in the up-down direction. Thus, the hammer mechanism 6H is configured to convert a rotational power about the axis of rotation RX1 of the output shaft 515, which extends in the up-down direction, into a linear motion in the forward-backward direction and to apply the hammer force to the release mechanism 9.

[0163] The axis of rotation RX1 of the output shaft 515 of the motor 51 need not be perpendicular, but can intersect the drive axis DX and the axis of rotation RX2 obliquely at a predetermined angle. For example, the arrangement of the motor 51 is modified such that an upper end part of the motor 51 (an upper end of the output shaft 515) is in essentially the same position as in Fig. 17 is located, and a lower end part of the motor 51 is located at the front of the position shown in Fig. Figure 17 shows that the axis of rotation RX1 is inclined forward towards the lower side. This arrangement shifts the lower end of the motor 51 forward, allowing the handle 3H to be moved forward towards the tool body 2H. Consequently, the needle scaler 1H is reduced in length in the front-back direction and thus in size. It is preferred that the angle of the teeth of gear 605H be modified to match the drive gear 516 of the inclined output shaft 515.

[0164] The handle 3H connects the handle part 31 and the tool body 2H, forming a ring-shaped part together with the handle part 31 and the tool body 2H. The handle 3H comprises the handle part 31, an upper extension part 340, and a lower extension part 344.

[0165] The handle 31 extends in the top-bottom direction. A push button 35, which has the same structure as the push button 35 of the sixth embodiment, is provided on the front side of the upper end of the handle 31. Specifically, in this embodiment, the push button 35 is arranged in a position such that the drive axis DX passes through the handle 31 and the push button 35 when the needle scaler 1H is viewed in the left-right direction. Furthermore, the drive axis DX also passes through the handle 31 and the push button 35 when the needle scaler 1H is viewed in the top-bottom direction. With this arrangement, the user can easily perform the operation of pressing the needles 91 onto the workpiece in the axial direction (the front-back direction) according to the extension of the drive axis DX while holding the handle 3H and actuating the push button 35.

[0166] The upper extension part 340 extends rearward from an upper rear end of the tool body 2H or the rear end of the cylinder part 21 and is connected to the upper end part of the handle part 31. The lower extension part 344 extends forward from the lower end part of the handle part 31 and is connected to the body extension part 27.

[0167] The control 50 is housed in the lower extension section 344 and extends in the front-back direction. The arrangement and structure of the control 50 are essentially the same as those of the control 50 of the first embodiment. Specifically, the control 50 is arranged in a position such that a line perpendicular to the drive axis DX passes through the control 50 and the handle section 31 when the needle scaler 1H is viewed in the left-right direction. The control 50 can be arranged at a location other than in the lower extension section 344 and can be arranged to extend in the top-bottom direction.

[0168] The battery mounting part 4 extends in the front-back direction at a lower end portion of the lower extension portion 344 or at a lower end portion 32H of the handle 3H. The arrangement and structure of the battery mounting part 4 are essentially the same as those of the battery mounting part 4 of the first embodiment. In particular, the battery mounting part 4 is arranged in a position such that a line perpendicular to the drive axis DX passes through the battery mounting part 4 and the handle 3H when the needle scaler 1H is viewed in the left-right direction. The control unit 50 can be arranged at a location other than in the lower end portion 32H of the handle 3H, such as at the rear end portion of the handle part 31, and can be arranged to extend in the top-bottom direction.

[0169] In the needle scaler 1H of this embodiment, the length of the needle scaler 1H in the front-back direction is reduced by arranging the motor 51 below the drive axis DX and the rotation axis RX2, thus improving the maneuverability of the needle scaler 1H. Furthermore, the handle 3H is designed in a ring shape, improving its strength compared, for example, to a cantilever handle such as the handle 3A of the first embodiment. Additionally, when the needle scaler 1H is operated in the reverse position, the user can improve maneuverability during operation by holding the handle part 31 with one hand and additionally holding the body extension part 27 with the other hand.When operating in the reverse position, by additionally holding the body extension part 27, the user can more easily place an upper end of the tool body 2H close to a machining surface than when holding the cylinder part 21, thus improving machinability when operating in the reverse position. <Neunte Ausführungsform>

[0170] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 18, the needle scaler 1I according to a ninth embodiment of the present disclosure is a modification of the needle scaler 1H of the eighth embodiment. The needle scaler 1I differs from the needle scaler 1H of the eighth embodiment in the structure of a hammer mechanism 6I, but otherwise has essentially the same structure as the needle scaler 1H of the eighth embodiment. The hammer mechanism 6I has the motion conversion mechanism 61H including the gear 605H of the eighth embodiment instead of the motion conversion mechanism 61 of the hammer mechanism 6C of the third embodiment. In particular, the needle scaler 1I can be provided with a combination of the handle 3H, the tool body 2H, and the hammer mechanism 6I of the mechanical spring type. <Zehnte Ausführungsform>

[0171] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 19, a needle scaler 1J according to a tenth embodiment of the present embodiment differs from the needle scaler 1A of the first embodiment in that a handle 3J and a battery mounting part 4J are provided instead of the handle 3A and the battery mounting part 4, respectively, but otherwise has the same structure as the first embodiment. The needle scaler 1J is configured such that a battery 40J, which differs from the battery 40 of the first embodiment and is also referred to as a so-called rod-shaped battery, can be mounted on it.

[0172] Unlike battery 40, which has a general rectangular parallelepiped shape (cuboid shape) in the first embodiment, battery 40J has a rod-like shape extending in one direction. Battery 40J has a smaller battery capacity (Ah) than battery 40. Battery 40J is smaller than battery 40 and is configured so that the majority of battery 40J can be inserted into the handle 3J. Battery 40J has a locking component 407J.

[0173] The handle 3J is similar to the handle 3A of the first embodiment in that it is a so-called pistol grip and is connected to the tool body 2A in a cantilevered manner. The handle 3J differs from the handle 3A of the first embodiment in that its lower end part 23J has a different shape than the lower end part 32A, and in that the handle 3J has the battery mounting part 4J instead of the battery mounting part 4.

[0174] The lower end portion 32J of the handle 3J is a free end and has substantially the same outer diameter as the outer diameter of the handle portion 31. A battery insertion portion 320 is formed in the lower end portion 32J. The battery insertion portion 320 is configured to receive part of the battery 40J. The battery insertion portion 320 has an opening 321 formed in the lower end portion 32J of the handle 3J and a guide wall 322 connected to the opening 321 and extending into the interior of the handle 3J. The battery 40J is inserted through the opening 321, and the guide wall 322 defines the insertion direction of the battery 40J. An engagement portion (not shown) is formed on the battery insertion portion 320 and is configured to engage with the locking component 407J of the battery 40J.

[0175] The battery mounting part 4J has an engagement part 41J, which can physically engage with the battery 40J, and a connector part 45J, which can be electrically connected to the battery 40J. The engagement part 41J has the battery insertion part 320, which is formed in the lower end part 32J of the handle 3J.

[0176] The connector part 45J is located on the inside of the handle 3J. In this embodiment, the connector part 45J is positioned directly below the switch 38. The connector part 45J has terminals that can be electrically connected to the terminals of the battery 40J.

[0177] When the battery 40J is mounted on the battery mounting part 4J, it is inserted into the opening 321 of the battery insertion part 320 from below the handle 3J. Thus, in this embodiment, the mounting direction of the battery 40J on the battery mounting part 4J essentially corresponds to the upward direction of the needle scaler 1J. As the battery 40J is guided through the guide wall 322 and moved upward to a predetermined mounting position, the locking element 407J engages with the engagement part of the battery insertion part 320, restricting the battery 40J from moving relative to the battery mounting part 4J in the up-down direction. The connector part 405 (terminals) of the battery 40J is then electrically connected to the connector part 45J (terminals), and the mounting of the battery 40J is complete. The mounted battery 40J extends in the top-bottom direction of the needle scaler 1J.The mounted battery 40J can be removed from the battery mounting part 4J by manually actuating the locking component 407J to unlock the locking component 407J from the engagement part (not shown).

[0178] As described above, the needle scaler 1J of this embodiment is configured such that the rod-shaped battery 40J can be detachably mounted on it. Therefore, the needle scaler 1J is reduced in weight and size compared to the needle scaler 1A of the first embodiment, thus improving the ease of use and transportability of the needle scaler 1J. <Elfte Ausführungsform>

[0179] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 20, a needle scaler 1K according to an eleventh embodiment of the present disclosure is a modification of the needle scaler 1J of the tenth embodiment. The needle scaler 1K differs from the needle scaler 1J of the tenth embodiment in that a hammer mechanism 6C is provided instead of the hammer mechanism 6, but otherwise has essentially the same structure as the needle scaler 1J of the tenth embodiment. The hammer mechanism 6C is a so-called mechanical spring type, which is described in the third embodiment. Thus, as in Fig. As shown in Figure 20, the needle scaler 1K can be provided with a combination of the handle 3J and the battery mounting part 4J, on which the rod-shaped battery 40J can be removably mounted, and the hammer mechanism 6C of the mechanical spring type. The needle scalers of the third to ninth embodiments can be configured such that the rod-shaped battery 40J can be mounted on them, and the battery mounting part 4J of this embodiment can be provided instead of the battery mounting part 4. <Zwölfte Ausführungsform>

[0180] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 21, a needle scaler 1L according to a twelfth embodiment of the present disclosure differs from the needle scaler 1A of the first embodiment in that a handle 3L is provided instead of the handle 3A, but on the other hand has essentially the same structure as the first embodiment.

[0181] The handle 3L is similar to the handle 3A of the first embodiment in that it is connected to the tool body 2A in a cantilevered manner, but differs in its arrangement relative to the tool body 2A. In all other respects, the handle 3L has essentially the same structure as the handle 3A.

[0182] As in Fig. As shown in 21, in this embodiment the handle 3L is located at the front of a connection position (in Fig. (3 shown) is arranged between the tool body 2A and the handle 3A. The handle 3L and the tool body 2A form a general T-shape, so that the handle 3L is also referred to as a T-shaped handle.

[0183] The motor 51 and the motion conversion mechanism 61 are located in a rear part of the tool body 2A. In the needle scaler 1L, the loads of the motor 51 and the motion conversion mechanism 61 tend to be large compared to the loads of the other elements located in the tool body 2A. Thus, the center of gravity of the needle scaler 1L is located slightly rearward of the center of the tool body 2A in the direction of extension of the drive axis DX.

[0184] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 21, the handle 3L is connected to the tool body 2A at a position slightly rearward of the center of the tool body 2A, such that it is connected at a position close to the center of gravity of the needle scaler 1L. Specifically, a base end of the handle 3L is connected to the tool body 2A within a range RG from position 518R of the rear bearing 518 of the motor 51 to position 60F of the front bearing 601 of the intermediate shaft 60 of the motion conversion mechanism 61 in the front-to-reverse direction. Therefore, the needle scaler 1L can be operated in a balanced manner using the handle 3L. In other embodiments, the handle 3L can be connected within a range from the rear end 25R of the tool body 2A to position 60F.

[0185] In this embodiment, the handle part 31 of the handle 3L is connected to the tool body 2A directly below the motor 51 and extends in a direction substantially perpendicular to the drive axis DX. Furthermore, the entire handle part 31 is located within the area RG. In other words, a rear end 31R of the handle part 31 is located in front of position 518R, and a front end 31F of the handle part 31 is located behind position 60F. Therefore, the needle scaler 1L can be operated in a balanced manner using the handle 3L. The "front end 31F of the handle part 31" can include a front end of a component, such as the pusher 35, provided on the handle part 31. The front end 31F of the handle part 31 can be a front end within a range from the push button 35 to the lower end part 32A of the handle part 31. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 21, in other embodiments the rear end 31R of the handle part 31 can be arranged in front of the rear end 25R of the tool body 2A.

[0186] In the needle scaler 1L of this embodiment, the handle part 31 of the hand grip 3L is connected to the tool body 2A directly below the motor 51 and extends in a direction essentially perpendicular to the drive axis DX. The hand grip 3L is connected to the tool body 2A at a position close to the center of gravity of the tool body 2A, so that the needle scaler 1L is well balanced in the front-back direction. This improves the machinability of the needle scaler 1L.

[0187] Furthermore, by positioning the handle part 31 directly below the tool body 2A, the overall length of the needle scaler 1L in the front-back direction can be shortened compared to the needle scaler 1A of the first embodiment. Therefore, the size of the needle scaler 1L is reduced, thus improving ease of use. <Dreizehnte Ausführungsform>

[0188] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 22, a needle scaler 1M according to a thirteenth embodiment of the present disclosure is a modification of the needle scaler 1L of the twelfth embodiment. The needle scaler 1M differs from the needle scaler 1L of the twelfth embodiment in that a hammer mechanism 6C is provided instead of the hammer mechanism 6, but otherwise has essentially the same structure as the needle scaler 1L. The hammer mechanism 6C is of a so-called mechanical spring type, which is described above in the third embodiment. Thus, as in Fig. Figure 22 shows the needle scaler 1M with a combination of the handle 3L, which is connected to the tool body 2A directly below the motor 51 and extends in a direction substantially perpendicular to the drive axis DX, and the hammer mechanism 6C of the mechanical spring type.

[0189] As in Fig.As shown in Figure 22, the base end of the handle 3L is connected to the tool body 2A within the area RG. The handle 3L can be connected within an area from the rear end 25R of the tool body 2A to position 60F of the front end of the intermediate shaft 60, or within an area from position 518R to position 60F. The rear end 31R of the handle part 31 is located in front of position 518R, and the front end 31F of the handle part 31 is located behind position 60F.

[0190] Similarities between the features of the embodiments described above and the features of the present disclosure or the invention are as follows. However, the features of the embodiments described above are merely examples and thus do not limit the features of the present disclosure or the invention.

[0191] The needle scalers 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D, 1E, 1F, 1G, 1H, 1I, 1J, 1K, 1L, 1M are examples of the "needle scaler". The tool bodies 2A, 2B, 2D, 2H are examples of the "tool body". The motor 51 is an example of the "motor". The hammer mechanisms 6, 6C, 6H, 6I are examples of the "power transmission mechanism" and the "hammer mechanism". The release mechanism 9 and the needles 91 are examples of the "release mechanism" and the "needles", respectively. The piston cylinder 617 and the impact pistons 65, 65C are examples of the "piston" and the "impact piston", respectively. The piston cylinder 617, the impact pistons 65, 65C, the rod 616, and the compression helical spring 68 are examples of the "power transmission component." The piston cylinder 617 and the rod 616 are examples of the "reciprocating component." The compression helical spring 68 is an example of the "elastic component."

[0192] The battery mounting parts 4, 4J are examples of the "battery mounting part". The intermediate shaft 60 and the oscillating component 613 are examples of the "intermediate shaft" and the "oscillating component", respectively. The sleeve 22 is an example of the "sleeve". The needle housing 90, the bearing 93, and the anvil 95 are examples of the "needle housing", the "bearing", and the "anvil", respectively. The base 931 and the circumferential wall 935 of the bearing 93 are examples of the "base" and the "bearing wall" of the "bearing", respectively. The large-diameter part 951 and the small-diameter part 954 of the anvil 95 are examples of the "large-diameter part" and the "small-diameter part" of the "anvil", respectively. The elastic element 98 is an example of the "elastic element". Handle 3B and handle part 31 are examples of the "handle" and "handle part," respectively. Push button 35 is an example of the "actuating component." Lighting unit 39 is an example of the "lighting unit."

[0193] The needle scaler according to the present disclosure is not limited to the needle scalers 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D, 1E, 1F, 1G, 1H, 1I, 1J, 1K, 1L, 1M of the embodiments described above. For example, the following non-limiting modifications can be made. At least one of these modifications can be applied in combination with at least one feature of the needle scalers 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D, 1E, 1F, 1G, 1H, 1I, 1J, 1K, 1L, 1M of the embodiments described above and of the claimed invention.

[0194] The structures of the power transmission mechanism and the hammer mechanism are not limited to those of the hammer mechanisms of the embodiments described above. For example, in other embodiments, the power transmission mechanism and the hammer mechanism can use a crank shaft, which is operably connected to the output shaft 515 and the motor 51, instead of the rotating body 611 and the oscillating component 613 on the intermediate shaft 60. In this case, a cylindrical piston can be slidably arranged within the cylinder 63 and operably connected to an eccentric pin provided on the crankshaft. It is advantageous that the rotating body 611 and the oscillating component 613 on the intermediate shaft 60 contribute to the size reduction of the hammer mechanism 6.

[0195] Furthermore, in other embodiments, for example, the power transmission mechanism can be a cam-type power transmission mechanism that converts rotary drive power from the output shaft 515 or the intermediate shaft 60 into an axial reciprocating motion. In this case, the power transmission mechanism can include a driven component that moves back and forth in the axial direction and a cam component that rotates together with the output shaft 515 and the intermediate shaft 60 and converts the rotary motion into a reciprocating motion of the driven component, instead of the hammer mechanisms 6, 6C, 6H, 6I. The driven component is an example of the "power transmission part".

[0196] The release mechanism of the needle scalers according to the present disclosure can be configured precisely such that it appropriately transmits the hammer force of the impact piston to the needles, and its structure is not limited to that of the release mechanism 9 of the embodiments described above. For example, the needle housing 90 can be a single cylindrical component formed separately from the cylinder 63, instead of being formed by a part of the cylinder 63 and the cylindrical component 900. The shapes of the bearing 93 and the anvil 95 can be suitably modified, provided that the bearing 93 and the anvil 95 can slide within the needle housing 90. Furthermore, for example, the bearing 93 and the anvil 95 need not be able to slide independently of each other within the needle housing 90, but can be fixed to one another and slide integrally.The preload component 97 can be a mechanical spring other than a compression coil spring or an elastic element (such as an elastomer) other than a spring. The elastic element 98 can be modified to be a mechanical spring (such as a compression coil spring).

[0197] In view of the nature of the present disclosure and the embodiments described above, the following aspects are provided for. At least one of these aspects can be applied in combination with at least one of the features of the embodiments and modifications described above and of the claimed invention. (Aspect A1) The detachment mechanism indicates a needle housing having a front end with an opening through which the needles are inserted, a bearing that supports the needles in such a way that they are movable in respective axial directions within the needle housing, and an anvil which is arranged between the piston and the bearing in the front-back direction and which can slide in the front-back direction along the drive axis inside the needle housing, and the piston is configured to strike the anvil directly. (Aspect A2) The bearing can slide in the front-back direction along the drive axis inside the needle housing. (Aspect A3) The release mechanism may include a preloading component located between the bearing and the needle housing in the front-back direction, which preloads the bearing and the anvil rearward relative to the needle housing. (Aspect A4) The actuating component is positioned away from the first and second ends of the handle part in the first direction. (Aspect A5) The actuating component is mounted by the handle part in such a way that it can slide linearly. (Aspect A6) The hammer mechanism further exhibits an intermediate shaft which is operably connected to the output shaft and rotates about a second axis of rotation in conjunction with the rotation of the output shaft, and an oscillating component that is arranged on the intermediate shaft and oscillates in the front-back direction in conjunction with the rotation of the intermediate shaft, wherein the piston is connected to the oscillating component in a way that allows it to move linearly back and forth along the drive axis in conjunction with the oscillation of the oscillating component, the drive axis, the first axis of rotation and the second axis of rotation are parallel to each other, and The handle protrudes from the tool body in one direction towards the second axis of rotation from the drive axis. (Aspect 7) The needle scaler also has a battery mounting part on which a battery can be removablely mounted, and The drive axle passes through the battery mounting part when the needle scaler is viewed in a second direction perpendicular to the front-back direction and the first direction. (Aspect A8) The battery mounting part is provided in a rear end part of the tool body, and The handle is positioned between the hammer mechanism and the battery mounting part in the front-back direction. (Aspect A9) At least part of the motor is located on the opposite side of the battery mounting part relative to the handle in the front-back direction. (Aspect A10) The needle scaler also has a control unit that controls the drive of the needle scaler, The control unit is located between the motor and the battery mounting part in the front-to-back direction, and The drive axle passes through the motor, the control unit, and the battery mounting part. (Aspect A11) A line perpendicular to the drive axis passes through the control and the handle when the needle scaler is viewed in a second direction perpendicular to the front-back direction and the first direction. (Aspect A12) The battery mounting part has an engagement part configured to slide into engagement with the battery in a direction that crosses the drive axis. (Aspect A13) The engagement part is configured to engage with the battery in the first direction in a sliding manner.

[0198] The following aspects B1 to B10 are provided to solve a non-limiting problem of the present disclosure by providing a technique that contributes to improving the durability of an electric needle scaler. The following aspects B1 to B10 can be applied individually or in combination with at least two of them. Alternatively, at least one of the following aspects B1 to B10 can be applied in combination with at least one of the needle scalers 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D, 1E, 1F, 1G, 1H, 1I, 1J, 1K, 1L, 1M of the embodiments and modifications described above, aspects A1 to A13, and features of the claimed invention. (Aspect B1) A needle scaler, with a tool body extending along a drive axis that defines a front-back direction of the needle scaler, an electric motor which is incorporated in the tool body and has an output shaft which is rotatable about a first axis of rotation, a hammer mechanism that is incorporated into the tool body, and a release mechanism which is supported by a front end part of the tool body and has needles which project forward in such a way that they are exposed by the tool body and are supported in such a way that they are movable in the respective axial directions of the needles, in which the hammer mechanism (i) comprises a piston which is operably connected to the output shaft of the motor and which moves back and forth along the drive axis in conjunction with the rotation of the output shaft, and (ii) comprises a striking piston which moves back and forth along the drive axis by means of pressure fluctuations caused in an air chamber by the reciprocating movement of the piston and which exerts a hammer force on the needles.

[0199] The needle scaler according to aspect B1 features a hammer mechanism driven by the power of the electric motor. The hammer mechanism moves the impact piston back and forth through the action of the air spring, or more specifically, through the pressure fluctuations in the air chamber caused by the piston's reciprocating motion, thus applying a hammer force to the needles of the peeling mechanism. Therefore, the needle scaler is designed with excellent durability compared to a structure where the piston and impact piston are connected by a mechanical spring (such as a compression coil spring) to apply the hammer force.

[0200] (Aspect B2) The needle scaler according to aspect B1 may further include a battery mounting part configured to accept a removable battery.

[0201] In this respect, the needle scaler is designed with excellent operability and portability compared to a needle scaler that can be connected to an external mains power source. The battery mounting part typically has an engagement part (such as a guide rail and a guide groove) that can physically engage with the battery, and a connector part with terminals that can be electrically connected to the battery.

[0202] (Aspect B3) The needle scaler according to aspect B1 or B2, in which the hammer mechanism may include an intermediate shaft and an oscillating component. The intermediate shaft may be operably connected to the output shaft and configured to rotate a second axis of rotation, parallel to the first axis of rotation, in conjunction with the rotation of the output shaft. The oscillating component may be located on the intermediate shaft and configured to oscillate in the forward-backward direction in conjunction with the rotation of the intermediate shaft. The piston may be operably connected to the oscillating component and may be configured to move back and forth along the drive axis in conjunction with the oscillation of the oscillating component.

[0203] In this respect, the motion conversion mechanism, which converts a rotary motion of the motor's output shaft into a linear motion of the piston, is reduced in size compared to a structure that uses a crank-piston mechanism.

[0204] (Aspect B4) The needle scaler according to aspect B3, in which the piston can have a cylindrical piston cylinder with a base. The impact piston can be slidable along the drive axis within the piston cylinder. The air chamber can be defined between the base of the piston cylinder and the impact piston.

[0205] In this respect, the hammer mechanism is reduced in size compared to a structure in which a cylindrical piston is arranged inside a cylinder that is formed separately from the piston.

[0206] (Aspect B5) The needle scaler according to one of aspects B1 to B4 may further include a sleeve located within the front end of the tool body, which holds the release mechanism. The front end of the tool body may be made of a synthetic resin. The sleeve may be made of a metal and be integral with the front end of the tool body. The release mechanism, which includes needles that move in the axial direction, generates heat slightly.

[0207] According to this embodiment, the tool body, which includes the retaining part (the sleeve) that holds the release mechanism, is designed with excellent durability, and the number of parts required for assembly is reduced.

[0208] (Aspect B6) The needle scaler according to one of aspects B1 to B5, in which the release mechanism comprises a needle housing, a bearing, and an anvil. The needle housing may have a front end with an opening through which the needles are inserted and may be fixed to the tool body. The bearing may support the needles so that they are movable in the respective axial directions. The anvil may be arranged between the impact piston and the bearing in the front-back direction. The anvil may be configured to apply a hammer force to the needles by being struck by the impact piston. The bearing may have a cylindrical shape with a base and a cylindrical circumferential wall. The base may have holes through which the needles are inserted.The circumferential wall can extend rearward from an outer circumferential edge of the base and can be configured to slide forward and backward along the drive axis within the needle housing. The anvil can have a large-diameter portion and a small-diameter portion. The large-diameter portion can be configured to slide forward and backward along the drive axis within the needle housing. The small-diameter portion can project forward from the large-diameter portion and have a smaller diameter than the large-diameter portion. A rear end portion of the bearing's circumferential wall is configured to fit onto the small-diameter portion of the anvil.

[0209] According to this aspect, the anvil and the bearing slide essentially integrally within the needle housing, so that the anvil is restricted in tilting relative to the needle housing, while the overall length of the anvil is reduced in the axial direction.

[0210] (Aspect B7) The needle scaler according to aspect B6, in which an end part of each of the needles can move in the axial direction within a space defined between the bottom of the bearing and the anvil in the front-back direction and surrounded by the circumferential wall of the bearing.

[0211] According to this aspect, the space in which the needles can move in the axial direction is adequately ensured by the bearing and the anvil.

[0212] (Aspect B8) The needle scaler according to one of aspects B1 to B7, in which the release mechanism comprises a needle housing, a bearing, an anvil, and an elastic element. The needle housing may have a front end with an opening through which the needles are inserted and may be fixed to the tool body. The bearing may support the needles so that they are movable in the respective axial directions. The bearing may be configured to slide in the front-back direction along the drive axis within the needle housing. The anvil may be positioned between the impact piston and the bearing in the front-back direction and configured to slide in the front-back direction along the drive axis within the needle housing. The anvil may be configured to apply a hammer force to the needles by being struck by the impact piston.The elastic element can be positioned between the anvil and a rear end part of the needle housing in the front-back direction.

[0213] According to this aspect, the elastic element dampens the impact of the collision when the needles rebound due to reaction and collide with the anvil.

[0214] (Aspect B9) The needle scaler according to any of aspects B1 to B8 may further comprise a handle and an actuating element. The handle may be connected to the tool body and have a grip portion extending in a first direction that intersects the drive axis. The actuating element may be provided on a front side of the grip portion and configured to be manually actuated by a user to command a start of the motor. The grip portion may have a first end closer to the tool body and a second end farther from the tool body in the first direction. The actuating element may be arranged in a region of the grip portion that has at least one central position of the grip portion that is substantially equidistant from the first and second ends in the first direction.

[0215] According to this aspect, the actuating element is positioned in an area that has its center position in the first direction (or the longitudinal direction of the handle). Thus, the actuating element can be easily operated with one or more fingers by a user when the user holds the handle in an orientation with a thumb on one end (the end of the tool body side) of the handle, or in an orientation with the thumb on a second end (the opposite side from the tool body) of the handle. Furthermore, the needle scaler can be used in various positions, but the orientation in which the handle is held does not substantially affect the operability of the actuating element, so the needle scaler exhibits excellent operability in various positions.

[0216] (Aspect B10) The needle scaler according to one of aspects B1 to B9 may further comprise a lighting device arranged to illuminate an area in front of the needles.

[0217] According to this aspect, editability is improved in a dark area.

[0218] Similarities between the features of aspects B1 to B10 and the features of the present disclosure or the invention are as follows. However, the features of the embodiments described above are merely exemplary and do not limit the features of aspects B1 to B10.

[0219] The needle scalers 1A and 1B are examples of the "needle scaler". The tool bodies 2A and 2B are examples of the "tool body". The motor 51 is an example of the "motor". The hammer mechanism 6 is an example of the "hammer mechanism". The release mechanism 9 and the needles 91 are examples of the "release mechanism" and "needles", respectively. The piston cylinder 617 and the impact piston 65 are examples of the "piston" and the "impact piston", respectively.

[0220] Battery mounting part 4 is an example of a "battery mounting part". The intermediate shaft 60 and the oscillating component 613 are examples of an "intermediate shaft" and an "oscillating component", respectively. The sleeve 22 is an example of a "sleeve". The needle housing 90, the bearing 93, and the anvil 95 are examples of a "needle housing", a "bearing", and an "anvil", respectively. The base 931 and the circumferential wall 935 of the bearing 93 are examples of the "base" and the "circumferential wall" of the "bearing", respectively. The large-diameter part 951 and the front small-diameter part 954 of the anvil 95 are examples of the "large-diameter part" and the "small-diameter part" of the "anvil", respectively. The elastic element 98 is an example of an "elastic element". Handle 3B and handle part 31 are examples of the "handle" and "handle part," respectively. Push button 35 is an example of the "actuating component." Lighting unit 39 is an example of the "lighting unit."

[0221] It is explicitly emphasized that all features disclosed in the description and / or the claims are to be considered separate and independent of one another for the purpose of the original disclosure as well as for the purpose of limiting the claimed invention, irrespective of the combinations of features in the embodiments and / or the claims. It is explicitly stated that all range specifications or specifications of groups of units disclose every possible intermediate value or subgroup of units for the purpose of the original disclosure as well as for the purpose of limiting the claimed invention, in particular also as a boundary of a range specification. Reference symbol list

[0222] 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D, 1E, 1F, 1G, 1H, 1I, 1J, 1K, 1L, 1M: Needle scaler, 2A, 2B, 2D, 2H: Tool body, 201: Projection, 21: Cylinder part, 22: Sleeve, 221: Flange, 227: Elastic element, 24: Bearing; 241: cylindrical part, 25: rear end part, 25R: rear end, 251: rear wall part, 253: side wall part, 27: body extension part, 3A, 3B, 3D, 3F, 3H, 3J, 3L: handle, 31: handle part, 31F: front end, 31R: rear end, 311: front wall part, 312: opening, 32A, 32B, 32F, 32H, 32J: lower end part, 320: battery insertion part, 321: opening, 322: guide wall, 340: upper extension part, 342: front extension part, 344: lower extension part, 35: push button, 37: touch switch, 38: switch 381: Switch body, 383: Piston, 39: Lighting unit, 4, 4J: Battery mounting part, 41, 41J: Engagement part, 42: Guide groove, 45, 45J: Connector part, 47: Recessed part, 40: Battery, 400: Mounting surface, 401: Surface, 403: Guide rail, 405: Connector part, 407,407J: Locking component, 408: Release button, 50: Control, 51: Motor, 511: Stator, 513: Rotor, 515: Output shaft, 516: Drive gear, 517: Bearing, 518: Bearing, 6, 6C, 6H, 6I: Hammer mechanism, 60: Intermediate shaft, 601: Bearing, 602: Bearing, 605, 605H: Gear, 61, 61H: Motion conversion mechanism, 611: Rotating body, 612: Spring retainer, 613: Oscillating component, 614: Ring part, 615: Arm part, 616: Rod, 617: Piston cylinder, 618: Washer, 619: Bolt, 63: Cylinder, 631: Large diameter part, 633: Shoulder part, 635: Small diameter part, 636: Small flange, 637: Recess, 638: Large flange, 64: Rotation stop ring, 641: Recess, 643: Projection, 644: Groove, 645: Ball, 65, 65C, Impact piston, 651: Recess, 652: Base, 653: Recess, 654: Through hole, 66: Air chamber, 68: Compression helical spring, 9: Release mechanism, 90: Needle housing, 900: Cylindrical component; 901: Wall, 902: Opening, 904: Flange, 91: Needle, 911: Body, 915: Head, 93: Bearing, 931: Base,932: Hole, 935: Circumferential wall, 95: Anvil, 951: Large diameter part, 954: Front small diameter part, 956: Rear small diameter part, 957: Rear projection, 96: Space, 97: Preload component, 98: Elastic element, CL: Center position, DX: Drive axis, RX1: Rotary axis, RX2: Rotary axis, S: Machining surface QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

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

[0000] JP S63 - 034 865 Y

[0002]

Claims

[1] Electric needle scaler, with a tool body, at least part of which extends along a drive axis that defines a front-back direction of the needle scaler, an electric motor which is incorporated in the tool body and has an output shaft which is rotatable about a first axis of rotation, a battery mounting part configured to removablely accommodate a battery, a power transmission mechanism that is incorporated into the tool body, and a release mechanism which is supported by a front end part of the tool body and has needles which project forward in such a way that they are exposed by the tool body and are supported in such a way that they are movable in the respective axial directions of the needles, in which The power transmission mechanism has a power transmission part which is operably connected to the output shaft of the motor and moves back and forth along the drive axis by utilizing the rotation of the output shaft, transmitting a force to the needles in the respective axial directions. [2] Needle scaler according to claim 1, wherein the power transmission mechanism (i) comprises a reciprocating component which is operably connected to the output shaft of the motor and which moves back and forth along the drive axis in conjunction with the rotation of the output shaft, and (ii) comprises a striking piston as the power transmission part which applies a hammer force to the needles by reciprocating the reciprocating component. [3] Needle scaler according to claim 2, wherein the power transmission mechanism (i) an intermediate shaft which is operably connected to the output shaft and which rotates about a second axis of rotation parallel to the first axis of rotation in conjunction with the rotation of the output shaft, and (ii) an oscillating component which is arranged on the intermediate shaft and which oscillates in the front-back direction in conjunction with the rotation of the intermediate shaft, and The reciprocating component is operably connected to the oscillating component and moves linearly back and forth along the drive axis in conjunction with the oscillation of the oscillating component. [4] Needle scaler according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the reciprocating component has a piston that forms an air chamber between the reciprocating component and the impact piston, and The piston moves back and forth along the drive axis due to pressure fluctuations generated in the air chamber by the piston's reciprocating motion. [5] Needle scaler according to claim 4, wherein the piston has a cylindrical piston cylinder with a base, the piston is able to slide along the drive axis within the piston cylinder, and The air chamber is defined between the bottom of the piston cylinder and the striking piston. [6] Needle scaler according to claim 2 or 3, wherein The power transmission mechanism further comprises an elastic component that elastically connects the reciprocating component and the impact piston, and The piston moves back and forth along the drive axis due to an elastic force of the elastic component, which is generated by the reciprocating motion of the reciprocating component. [7] Needle scaler according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising a sleeve that is located inside the front end part of the tool body and holds the release mechanism, in which the front end part of the tool body is made of a synthetic resin, and The sleeve is made of a metal and is integrally formed with the front end part. [8] Needle scaler according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the detachment mechanism a needle housing having a front end with an opening through which the needles are inserted, and fixed to the tool body, a bearing that holds the needles in such a way that they are movable in the respective axial directions, and an anvil that is positioned between the power transmission part and the bearing in the front-back direction and is configured to apply the axial force to the needles by being driven through the power transmission part, in which the bearing has a cylindrical shape with a base, and (i) a base having holes through which the needles are each inserted, and (ii) a circumferential wall having a cylindrical shape extending rearward from a circumferential edge of the base and configured to slide in the front-back direction along the drive axis within the needle housing, the anvil (i) having a large-diameter part configured to slide in the front-back direction along the drive axis within the needle housing, and (ii) having a small-diameter part projecting forward from the large-diameter part and having a smaller outside diameter than the large-diameter part, and A rear end section of the circumferential wall of the bearing is configured to fit onto the small diameter section of the anvil. [9] Needle scaler according to claim 8, wherein an end part of each of the needles is movable in the axial direction within a space defined between the bottom of the bearing and the anvil in the front-back direction and surrounded by the circumferential wall of the bearing. [10] Needle scaler according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the detachment mechanism a needle housing having a front end with an opening through which the needles are inserted, and fixed to the tool body, a bearing that supports the needles in such a way that they are movable in the respective axial directions and is configured to slide in the front-back direction along the drive axis within the needle housing, and an anvil that is positioned between the power transmission part and the bearing in the front-back direction and is configured to slide in the front-back direction along the drive axis within the needle housing, wherein the anvil is configured to apply the axial force to the needles by being struck through the power transmission part, and The needle scaler has an elastic element that is arranged between the anvil and a rear end part of the needle housing in the front-back direction. [11] Needle scaler according to any one of claims 1 to 10, further comprising a handle connected to the tool body and having a grip part extending in a first direction that crosses the drive axis, and an actuating component provided on a front side of the handle part and configured to be manually actuated by a user to instruct the start of the engine, in which the handle part has a first end that is closer to the tool body, and a second end that is further away from the tool body in the first direction, and the actuating component is arranged in an area of ​​the handle part which has at least one central position of the handle part which is substantially equidistant from the first and second ends in the first direction. [12] Needle descaler according to any one of claims 1 to 11, further comprising a lighting device arranged such that it illuminates an area on the front side of the needles. [13] Electric needle scaler, with a tool body, at least part of which extends along a drive axis that defines a front-back direction of the needle scaler, an electric motor which is incorporated in the tool body and has an output shaft which is rotatable about a first axis of rotation, a hammer mechanism that is incorporated into the tool body, and a release mechanism which is supported by a front end part of the tool body and has needles which project forward in such a way that they are exposed by the tool body and are supported in such a way that they are movable in the respective axial directions of the needles, in which the hammer mechanism (i) comprises a piston which is operably connected to the output shaft of the motor and which moves back and forth along the drive axis in conjunction with the rotation of the output shaft, and (ii) comprises a striking piston which moves back and forth along the drive axis by means of pressure fluctuations caused in an air chamber by a reciprocating movement of the piston and which applies a hammer force to the needles.

Images