MACHINE TOOL SWITCHING DEVICE

Description

State of the art

[0001] In EP 2 875 709 A1 and GB 2 216 721 A, a machine tool switching device, in particular for pushable garden equipment, for an electronic control of at least one electric drive unit of at least one machine tool, with at least one mechanical actuating unit and with at least one electronic unit, which is configured to output at least one signal, in particular at least one control signal, depending on actuation by the actuating unit, has already been proposed, wherein at least one translation unit operatively connected with the actuating unit, which is provided for an adjustment, in particular mechanical, of a ratio between an actuating travel of the actuating unit and a switching travel of the actuating unit. Disclosure of the invention

[0002] The invention relates to a machine tool switching device, in particular for pushable garden tools, to an electronic control of at least one electric drive unit of at least one machine tool, with at least one mechanical actuating unit, with at least one electronic unit which is configured to output at least one signal, in particular at least one control signal, depending on actuation by the actuating unit, and with at least one translation unit operatively connected to the actuating unit which is provided for, in particular mechanically, setting a ratio between an actuating path of the actuating unit and a switching path of the actuating unit.

[0003] It is proposed that the translation unit comprises at least two compression and / or tension elements, wherein at least one first compression and / or tension element is designed as a tension spring and at least one second compression and / or tension element is designed as a compression spring.

[0004] The machine tool is preferably designed as a converted machine tool. In particular, the machine tool has at least one electric drive unit, which in particular comprises an electric motor, replacing at least one drive unit originally present in the machine tool with an internal combustion engine. Preferably, the machine tool is designed as a garden tool, in particular a pushable one, especially a lawnmower. The machine tool can also be designed in particular as a motorized hedge trimmer, a pole pruner, a chainsaw, a machine tool other than a garden tool, in particular a hand-held power tool, for example a jigsaw, a circular saw, a drill, or the like, or as another machine tool that would appear appropriate to a person skilled in the art.Preferably, the machine tool switching device is configured for electronic control of at least one electric drive unit of the machine tool, which is intended to drive at least one machining unit of the machine tool, for example, a mower, a saw chain, a shear blade, or the like. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the machine tool switching device is configured for electronic control of at least one further electric drive unit of the machine tool, which is intended to drive at least one propulsion unit of the machine tool, for example, drive wheels of a machine tool designed as a lawnmower. "Intended" is to be understood in particular as being specially equipped and / or specially configured. "Configured" is to be understood in particular as being specially programmed and / or specially designed.The fact that an object is intended or set up for a specific function shall be understood in particular to mean that the object fulfills and / or performs this specific function in at least one application and / or operating state.

[0005] The machine tool switching device, in particular a housing unit of the machine tool switching device, is preferably designed as a box, a case, or the like. Preferably, the machine tool switching device, in particular the housing unit, can be attached to the machine tool, especially by a user of the machine tool or the machine tool switching device. Preferably, the machine tool switching device, in particular the housing unit, can be attached to the machine tool without tools. The machine tool preferably has at least one operating element, for example, an operating handle, an operating lever, an operating switch, or the like, which was intended for actuating the drive unit originally present in the machine tool with an internal combustion engine.Preferably, the control element has at least two different positions, between which it can be moved a certain distance, for example, by sliding, pivoting, or the like. Preferably, the actuating unit, in particular at least one actuating element of the actuating unit, can be coupled to the control element. The actuating element is preferably designed as an actuating cable, an actuating wire, or the like. Preferably, depending on an actuation of the control element of the machine tool, the actuating element coupled to the control element is actuated, in particular by pulling on the actuating element. Preferably, the actuating element is operatively connected to at least one further element, in particular a sliding element, of the actuating unit, which is specifically designed to actuate the electronic unit.Alternatively, it is conceivable that the actuating element is intended to actuate the electronic unit. An "electronic unit" is understood to mean, in particular, a unit with at least one control electronic unit. A "control electronic unit" is understood to mean, in particular, a unit with a processor unit, a memory unit, and an operating program stored in the memory unit.

[0006] The electronic unit preferably comprises at least one switching element, such as a microswitch, a potentiometer, a relay, or the like. Preferably, the actuating unit, in particular the sliding element, is designed to actuate the switching element of the electronic unit depending on the actuation of the control element. For example, it is conceivable that, depending on the actuation of the control element, the actuating element is moved, which in turn moves the sliding element, which in turn actuates the switching element of the electronic unit depending on this movement. Preferably, the switching element, in particular a switching element designed as a microswitch, has at least two switching positions, wherein in a first switching position a signal to deactivate the electric drive unit is output and in a second switching position a signal to activate the electric drive unit.Alternatively, it is conceivable that the switching element, in particular a switching element designed as a potentiometer, has a plurality of switching positions, especially a continuously variable switching position, wherein, for example, different signals are output depending on different switching positions for setting different rotational speeds of the electric drive unit. The electronic unit can, in particular, have a plurality of switching elements, especially corresponding to a number of actuating units of the machine tool switching device. Preferably, the electronic unit has at least one circuit board on which the at least one switching element is arranged. Preferably, the electronic unit includes at least one signal line element, in particular a cable, which is electrically connectable to the electric drive unit.Preferably, the electronic unit is configured to output the signals to the electric drive unit via the signal line element.

[0007] Preferably, the machine tool switching device can have a plurality of transmission units, in particular a number of transmission units corresponding to a number of actuating units. An "actuating unit travel" is understood to mean, in particular, the maximum distance by which the actuating unit, in particular the actuating element of the actuating unit, is moved as a result of actuation of the control element. In particular, the actuating unit travel depends on the distance between the at least two switching positions of the control element. In particular, the actuating unit travel can differ on different machine tools, which in particular have different distances between the at least two switching positions of the control elements.The term "actuating unit travel" refers in particular to the maximum distance by which the actuating unit, especially the sliding element of the actuating unit, is displaced between the at least two switching positions of the electronic unit. Preferably, the transmission unit is designed to specify an at least substantially constant switching travel, independent of the actuating unit's travel, particularly when different operating elements are used on different machine tools. According to the invention, the transmission unit is designed as a mechanical transmission unit comprising mechanical elements for adjusting the ratio between the actuating travel and the switching travel. The transmission unit has at least a plurality of push and / or pull elements, which are operatively connected to the actuating unit, in particular to the actuating element and / or the sliding element.The at least one pressure and / or tension element, in particular a spring, a pressure cylinder, or the like, is specifically designed to apply a pressure force and / or a tension force to the actuating element and / or the sliding element. Additionally, it is conceivable that the mechanical transmission unit includes gears, a cable system, or the like for adjusting the ratio between the actuating travel and the switching travel.As a non-inventive alternative, it is conceivable that the translation unit is designed as an at least partially electrical, in particular as an electromechanical, translation unit, in particular with at least one actuator for adjusting the ratio between the actuation path and the switching path, as a hydraulic translation unit, in particular with at least one hydraulic cylinder for adjusting the ratio between the actuation path and the switching path, or as a pneumatic translation unit, in particular with at least one pneumatic cylinder for adjusting the ratio between the actuation path and the switching path.

[0008] The design of the machine tool switching device according to the invention advantageously enables the adjustment of a ratio between the actuation travel of an actuating unit and the switching travel of the actuating unit. Advantageously, a compact and easily mounted machine tool switching device can be provided. Advantageously, a machine tool switching device can be provided that is usable with a large number of different machine tools, which in particular have different operating elements, especially with different travel distances between at least two switching positions of the operating elements, and / or a different number of electrical drive units. Advantageously, a user-friendly and multifunctional machine tool switching device can be provided.

[0009] Furthermore, it is proposed that the translation unit be designed to provide a switching path for the actuating unit, particularly up to the point where a switching point of the electronic unit is reached, which is shorter than the actuating path of the actuating unit. A "switching point of the electronic unit" is understood to be, in particular, an endpoint of the switching path at which a switching element of the electronic unit, especially one with two switching positions, switches from a first switching position to a second switching position. Depending on the machine tool with which the machine tool switching device is used, and in particular depending on the operating element of the machine tool, the actuating path of the actuating unit can be, for example, at least 5 cm, at least 10 cm, at least 20 cm, or at least 30 cm long.In particular, the translation unit is designed to provide a switching travel of the actuating unit of at most 2 cm, preferably at most 1.5 cm, particularly preferably at most 1 cm, and most preferably at most 0.5 cm. Advantageously, a defined switching travel can be specified. Advantageously, a compact machine tool switching device can be provided.

[0010] Furthermore, it is proposed that the translation unit comprise at least one of the at least two aforementioned pressure and / or tension elements, which is provided for adjusting the switching travel of the actuating unit and / or for returning the actuating unit to a non-actuated initial position. The respective pressure and / or tension element is designed as a spring, i.e., as a compression spring and / or a tension spring. Preferably, the at least one pressure and / or tension element is designed as a helical spring. More preferably, the at least one pressure and / or tension element is designed as a metal spring. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the at least one pressure and / or tension element is designed as a rubber spring, an air spring, a gas spring, or as another pressure and / or tension element that would appear suitable to a person skilled in the art.Preferably, the at least one pressure and / or pull element is operatively connected to the actuating unit, in particular to the actuating element and / or the sliding element, and in particular mechanically coupled. Preferably, the transmission unit has at least two pressure and / or pull elements, wherein at least one of the pressure and / or pull elements is mechanically coupled to the actuating element and at least one further pressure and / or pull element is mechanically coupled to the sliding element. In particular, the switching travel depends on parameters, in particular a pressure force and / or a pull force, for example a spring strength, a length, or the like, of the at least one pressure and / or pull element. In particular, the switching travel is adjustable by adjusting parameters, in particular the pressure force and / or the pull force, for example a spring strength, a length, or the like, of the at least one pressure and / or pull element.Preferably, the at least one pressure and / or pull element is provided to apply a restoring force to the actuating unit, in particular the actuating element and / or the sliding element, in a switching position actuated, especially by the operating element. In particular, the at least one pressure and / or pull element is provided to return the actuating unit, in particular the actuating element and / or the sliding element, from the actuated switching position to the unactuated initial position, depending on the release of the actuating mechanism, in particular by pulling or pushing it into the unactuated initial position. Advantageously, the switching travel can be adjusted.

[0011] The transmission unit comprises at least two pressure and / or tension elements, in particular the aforementioned pressure and / or tension elements, wherein the first pressure and / or tension element is designed as a tension spring and the second pressure and / or tension element is designed as a compression spring. Preferably, the first pressure and / or tension element is directly operatively connected to the sliding element, in particular mechanically coupled to the sliding element. Preferably, the second pressure and / or tension element is directly operatively connected to the actuating element, in particular mechanically coupled to the actuating element.Preferably, the first pressure and / or tension element and the second pressure and / or tension element are arranged, particularly in the housing unit, such that a force direction along which the first pressure and / or tension element applies a force, particularly a tensile force, to the actuating unit, particularly the sliding element, and a further force direction along which the second pressure and / or tension element applies a force, particularly a compressive force, to the actuating unit, particularly the actuating element, are at least substantially parallel to each other. "Substantially parallel" is understood to mean, in particular, an alignment of a direction relative to a reference direction, particularly in a plane, wherein the direction has a deviation from the reference direction of, in particular, less than 8°, advantageously less than 5°, and most advantageously less than 2°.Preferably, the force direction and the subsequent force direction point opposite to the direction of actuation in which the actuating unit is moved as a result of actuation, particularly via the control element. In particular, the force direction and the subsequent force direction are at least substantially antiparallel to the direction of actuation. In particular, the second pressure and / or pull element is designed to exert a pressure force on the actuating element acting opposite to the direction of actuation. In particular, the first pressure and / or pull element is designed to exert a pull force on the sliding element acting opposite to the direction of actuation. The first pressure and / or pull element is preferably attached to the sliding element and to a wall of the housing unit. In particular, the first pressure and / or pull element is designed to pull the sliding element towards the wall.The second pressure and / or tension element is preferably mounted on the sliding element. In particular, the second pressure and / or tension element is designed to press the actuating element against the sliding element, especially towards the wall. Preferably, the ratio between the actuating travel and the switching travel can be adjusted by modifying parameters, in particular a compressive force and / or a tensile force, for example, a spring force, a length, an arrangement, or the like, of the pressure and / or tension elements relative to each other. Advantageously, a flexibly adjustable transmission unit can be provided for adjusting the ratio between the actuating travel and the switching travel.

[0012] Furthermore, it is proposed that the actuating unit comprises at least one sliding element, in particular the aforementioned sliding element, operatively connected to the translation unit, for actuating at least one switching element, in particular a microswitch, of the electronic unit, wherein a geometric design of the sliding element influences the switching path of the actuating unit, in particular up to reaching a switching point of the electronic unit, relative to a maximum adjustment path of the sliding element. A "maximum adjustment path of the sliding element" is understood to mean, in particular, a distance by which the sliding element can be displaced at its maximum, especially depending on spatial conditions within the housing unit. In particular, the maximum adjustment path of the sliding element is independent of the actuating path of the actuating unit.In particular, the sliding element has the same maximum adjustment range regardless of the machine tool with which the machine tool switching device is used. The sliding element is preferably designed to actuate the switching element of the electronic unit. Specifically, the sliding element is designed to move a switching tongue of the switching element, particularly transversely to the force direction and to the further force direction. Preferably, movement of the switching tongue closes at least one contact of the switching element, which is particularly designed as a microswitch, and / or changes a resistance value of the switching element, which is particularly designed as a potentiometer. Preferably, the sliding element has at least one actuating lug designed to actuate the switching element, in particular to move the switching tongue of the switching element.The length of the switching path, particularly until the switching point is reached, and especially relative to the length of the maximum adjustment path of the sliding element, depends in particular on the geometric design of the sliding element, especially the actuating nose. For example, it is conceivable that a sliding element, especially an actuating nose, with a large maximum extent transverse to the force direction and to the further force direction, actuates the switching element after a shorter switching path, especially relative to the maximum adjustment path of the sliding element, than another sliding element, especially another actuating nose, with a smaller maximum extent transverse to the force direction and to the further force direction.For example, it is conceivable that a sliding element, which has an actuating nose along the force direction and the subsequent force direction, in front of another sliding element, actuates the switching element after a shorter switching path, particularly relative to the maximum adjustment path of the sliding element. Advantageously, this allows for fine adjustment of the switching path relative to the maximum adjustment path of the sliding element.

[0013] Furthermore, it is proposed that the sliding element and / or the transmission unit be designed such that the switching travel of the actuating unit, in particular until the switching point of the electronic unit is reached, corresponds to at most 30% of the maximum adjustment travel of the sliding element. Specifically, the sliding element and / or the transmission unit are designed such that the switching travel of the actuating unit, in particular until the switching point of the electronic unit is reached, corresponds to at most 30%, preferably at most 20%, and most preferably at most 10% of the maximum adjustment travel of the sliding element. Specifically, the sliding element and / or the transmission unit are designed such that the sliding element actuates the switching element of the electronic unit no later than after the sliding element has been displaced by 30% of its maximum adjustment travel.This allows for advantageous adjustment of the switching path, especially the switching point.

[0014] Furthermore, it is proposed that the actuating unit comprise at least one actuating element operatively connected to the transmission unit, in particular the aforementioned actuating element, and in particular at least one actuating cable, for actuating the sliding element, wherein the switching travel of the actuating unit, in particular until the switching point of the electronic unit is reached, is dependent on a design of the transmission unit relative to a maximum adjustment travel of the actuating element. A "maximum adjustment travel of the actuating element" is understood to mean, in particular, a distance by which the actuating element can be displaced to a maximum extent, in particular as a function of the actuating unit's travel. In particular, the maximum adjustment travel of the actuating element depends on an operating element, in particular on the geometry of the operating element, of a machine tool with which the machine tool switching device is used.In particular, the actuating element can have different maximum adjustment ranges depending on different machine tools, especially different operating elements. Preferably, the switching travel, especially until the switching point of the electronic unit is reached, particularly relative to the maximum adjustment travel of the actuating element, depends on a design, especially parameters, of the first push and / or pull element and the second push and / or pull element.For example, it is conceivable that a transmission unit with a first push and / or pull element having a lower spring force than a second push and / or pull element of the transmission unit provides a shorter switching travel, particularly relative to the maximum adjustment travel of the actuating element, than another transmission unit with a first push and / or pull element having a higher spring force than a second push and / or pull element of the further transmission unit. Advantageously, fine adjustment of the switching travel can be enabled relative to the maximum adjustment travel of the actuating element.

[0015] It is further proposed that the transmission unit be designed such that the switching travel of the actuating unit, particularly until the switching point of the electronic unit is reached, corresponds to at most 15% of the maximum adjustment travel of the actuating element. Specifically, the transmission unit is designed such that the switching travel of the actuating unit, particularly until the switching point of the electronic unit is reached, corresponds to at most 15%, preferably at most 10%, and most preferably at most 5% of the maximum adjustment travel of the actuating element. In particular, the transmission unit is designed such that the actuating unit, in particular the sliding element, actuates the switching element of the electronic unit no later than after the actuating element has been displaced by 15% of the maximum adjustment travel of the actuating element. Advantageous adjustment of the switching travel, in particular the switching point, can be achieved.

[0016] Furthermore, it is proposed that the machine tool switching device comprises at least one housing unit, in particular the aforementioned housing unit, which has at least one receiving area, in particular at least one receiving channel, in which the transmission unit and / or the actuating unit can be arranged. In its assembled state, the housing unit is preferably box-shaped. Preferably, the housing unit is made of a plastic. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the housing unit is made of a composite material, a metal, or another material that would appear suitable to a person skilled in the art. Preferably, the transmission unit, the actuating unit, and / or the electronic unit are arranged at least partially within the housing unit, in particular in at least one receiving section of the housing unit.Preferably, the housing unit has at least one mounting section arranged separately from the receiving section, which is designed for attachment to a machine tool. Preferably, when the housing unit is attached to the machine tool, at least one component, in particular a rod, of the machine tool extends through the mounting section. In particular, the housing unit has at least two, preferably at least three, and most preferably at least four housing parts, which are fixed to one another, in particular by means of fixing elements, especially screws, of the machine tool switching device.

[0017] Preferably, the housing unit can have a plurality of receiving areas, in particular a number of receiving areas corresponding to a number of actuating elements. The at least one receiving area is preferably delimited by rib elements of at least one housing part of the housing unit. Preferably, the at least one receiving area is designed to receive at least the entire first push and / or pull element, the second push and / or pull element, and the slide element. In particular, the at least one receiving area is designed to precisely receive the first push and / or pull element, the second push and / or pull element, and the slide element. Preferably, the at least one receiving area is designed to receive at least a portion of the actuating element.In particular, the actuating element extends partially within the at least one receiving area and partially outside the at least one receiving area, especially outside the housing unit. In particular, the housing unit, and especially at least one housing part of the housing unit, has at least one opening through which the actuating element can extend out of the housing unit, especially out of the receiving area. Preferably, the first push and / or pull element, the second push and / or pull element, and the slide element are arranged in the at least one receiving area with at least substantially no play in the assembled state of the housing unit in directions transverse to the force direction and to the further force direction. Advantageously, this allows for a space-saving arrangement of the transmission unit and at least one part of the actuating unit.Advantageously, a compact machine tool switching device can be provided.

[0018] Furthermore, it is proposed that the at least one receiving area for the passage of at least one further actuating element of the actuating unit be provided free of any operative connection with the electronic unit, and in particular without any transmission linkage, through the entire housing unit. The further actuating element can preferably be designed at least substantially analogous to the actuating element with regard to its shape, material composition, or the like. Preferably, the further actuating element is longer than the actuating element. Preferably, in an assembled state, the further actuating element extends from an operating element of a machine tool with which the machine tool switching device is used, to a drive unit, in particular with an internal combustion engine, which can be controlled via the further actuating element.In particular, the additional actuating element is provided for the mechanical actuation of the drive unit, which is designed differently from an electric drive unit. The drive unit can, in particular, be provided for driving a movement unit of the machine tool. For example, it is conceivable that the drive unit for driving the movement unit has a pulley and that the additional actuating element is provided for adjusting the diameter of the pulley. Preferably, the housing unit, in particular the at least one housing part of the housing unit, has at least one further opening through which the additional actuating element can extend. Preferably, the opening and the further opening are arranged on two opposite walls of the housing unit, in particular of the at least one housing part.Preferably, the at least one receiving area for the passage of the further actuating element is free of a sliding element, a first pressure and / or pull element, and a second pressure and / or pull element. Preferably, the at least one receiving area is provided for the alternating reception of the further actuating element or the transmission unit and the actuating unit. Advantageously, a modular machine tool switching device can be provided, which advantageously enables user-friendly operation with different drive units.

[0019] Furthermore, it is proposed that the housing unit define at least one opening to the at least one receiving area, which allows the insertion of at least one further actuating element of the actuating unit into the at least one receiving area when the housing unit is closed. A "closed state of the housing unit" is understood to mean, in particular, a state of the housing unit in which the at least two housing parts of the housing unit, which form the receiving section, are fixed to one another. Preferably, the closed state of the housing unit differs from a state of the housing unit mounted on the machine tool. In particular, the opening in the state of the housing unit mounted on the machine tool is closed by at least one fixing housing part of the housing unit.Preferably, the opening extends transversely into the receiving area, perpendicular to a principal direction of extension of the at least one receiving area. A "principal direction of extension" of an object is understood to be, in particular, a direction parallel to the longest edge of the smallest geometric cuboid that just completely encloses the object. Preferably, the housing unit can have at least one deflecting element arranged on, and in particular within, the opening, against which the further actuating element can bear. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the housing unit has at least one damping element, for example made of rubber, arranged on, and in particular within, the opening, which is provided for vibration damping of the further actuating element extending through the housing unit, in particular for noise reduction.Advantageously, the assembly effort required to adapt the machine tool switching device to a machine tool can be kept to a minimum for the user. Advantageously, a user-friendly machine tool switching device can be provided.

[0020] It is further proposed that the housing unit, at least in sections, forms at least one, in particular funnel-shaped, guide area for feeding the additional actuating element to the opening. Preferably, the guide area is formed, and in particular delimited, by the at least two housing parts that constitute the receiving section. Specifically, the at least two housing parts have a shape in a region around the opening that defines the funnel-shaped guide area. Preferably, at least one of the housing parts tapers towards the opening. In particular, the at least two housing parts form the guide area, which tapers in a funnel-like manner towards the opening. Advantageously, this allows for user-friendly insertion of the additional actuating element into the opening.

[0021] Furthermore, it is proposed that the machine tool switching device comprises at least one output unit, which is provided for an output, in particular optical, acoustic and / or haptic, of at least one switching state and / or charging state of the electronic unit. Preferably, the output unit is connected to the electronic unit by signal transmission technology, in particular electrically. Preferably, the output unit has at least one output element, which may in particular be arranged on the circuit board of the electronic unit. In particular, the output unit can have a plurality of output elements, in particular at least two, preferably at least three, and most preferably at least four output elements.Preferably, the output unit is designed as an optical output unit for the optical output of at least one switching state and / or charging state of the electronic unit and, in particular, comprises at least one output element designed as a light element. Preferably, the output element is designed as a light-emitting diode (LED), in particular a multi-colored one. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the optical output unit comprises at least one output element designed as a display or the like. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the output unit is designed as an acoustic and / or haptic output unit for the acoustic and / or haptic output of at least one switching state and / or charging state of the electronic unit and, in particular, comprises at least one acoustic output element, for example a loudspeaker, and / or at least one haptic output element, for example a vibration motor.The switching state of the electronic unit indicates, in particular, the position of at least one switching element of the electronic unit. The charge state of the electronic unit indicates, in particular, the remaining capacity of at least one power supply source of the electronic unit and / or the machine tool, for example, a battery. Advantageously, this allows the user to be conveniently provided with feedback on the switching process.

[0022] Furthermore, it is proposed that the machine tool switching device comprises at least one secondary actuation unit, wherein the electronic unit is configured to output at least one signal depending on actuation by the actuation unit and by the secondary actuation unit. The secondary actuation unit is preferably configured to actuate at least one additional switching element of the electronic unit. Preferably, the secondary actuation unit is configured differently from the actuation unit. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the secondary actuation unit is configured at least substantially analogous to the actuation unit. Preferably, the secondary actuation unit has at least one secondary actuation element, which is, in particular, free from any coupling to an operating element of a machine tool.In particular, the secondary actuating element can be directly operated by a user of the machine tool switching device. Specifically, the secondary actuating element is designed for the direct, and especially gearless, actuation of the additional switching element. The secondary actuating element can be designed, in particular, as a push button, a slide switch, a rotary switch, or as another secondary actuating element that would appear suitable to a person skilled in the art. In particular, the secondary actuating element is arranged at least partially outside the housing unit, especially for actuation by the user, and at least partially inside the housing unit, especially for actuation of the additional switching element.Preferably, the secondary actuation unit comprises at least one secondary push and / or pull element, in particular a compression spring, which is provided for a spring-elastic mounting, in particular a bistable mounting, of the secondary actuation element on the housing unit. In particular, the secondary actuation element can be latched in at least one switching position, in particular at least in the actuating position. Preferably, the electronic unit is configured to output at least one signal, in particular at least one control signal, to the electric drive unit for activation, depending on an actuation by the actuating unit and an actuation by the secondary actuating unit, in particular simultaneously. Advantageously, a user-friendly and user-safe machine tool switching device can be provided.

[0023] Furthermore, the invention relates to a machine tool, in particular a pushable garden tool, with at least one electric drive unit and with at least one machine tool switching device according to the invention.

[0024] It is proposed that the machine tool control device be configured for electronic control of the electric drive unit. Preferably, the machine tool is designed as a machine tool that has been at least partially converted from an internal combustion engine to an electric motor. Advantageously, a machine tool with an electric drive unit that is user-friendly and easy to control can be provided.

[0025] The machine tool switching device and / or the machine tool according to the invention are not intended to be limited to the application and embodiment described above. In particular, the machine tool switching device and / or the machine tool according to the invention may, in order to fulfill a function described herein, have a different number of individual elements, components, and units than the number specified herein. Furthermore, values ​​within the specified limits of the value ranges stated in this disclosure are also considered disclosed and freely usable. Drawings

[0026] Further advantages will become apparent from the following description of the drawings. The drawings illustrate an embodiment of the invention. The drawings, the description, and the claims contain numerous features in combination. A person skilled in the art will expediently consider the features individually and combine them into meaningful further combinations.

[0027] They show: Fig. 1 shows a machine tool according to the invention with a machine tool switching device according to the invention in a perspective view; Fig. 2 shows a detailed view of the machine tool switching device according to the invention. Fig. 1 in a machine tool according to the invention Fig. 1 Assembled state in a perspective view, Fig. 3 an exploded view of the machine tool switching device according to the invention. Fig. 1In a perspective view, Fig. 4 shows an electronic unit of the machine tool switching device according to the invention. Fig. 1 In a perspective view, Fig. 5, the machine tool switching device according to the invention is shown. Fig. 1 In a schematic sectional view, Fig. 6, the machine tool switching device according to the invention is shown. Fig. 1 In a further schematic sectional view, Fig. 7 shows a diagram of a switching path of an actuating unit of the machine tool switching device according to the invention. Fig. 1 In a schematic representation, Fig. 8 shows another diagram of the switching path. Fig. 7 In a schematic representation, Fig. 9, the machine tool switching device according to the invention is shown. Fig. 1 in a schematic representation and Fig. 10 the machine tool switching device according to the invention. Fig. 1 in a further schematic representation. Description of the exemplary embodiment

[0028] Figure 1Figure 14 shows a machine tool, in particular a pushable garden tool, with at least one electric drive unit 12 and at least one machine tool switching device 10, especially for pushable garden tools, in a perspective view. The machine tool 14 is preferably configured as a converted machine tool 14. In particular, the machine tool 14 has at least one electric drive unit 12, which in particular comprises an electric motor, which replaces at least one drive unit with an internal combustion engine originally present in the machine tool 14. Preferably, the machine tool 14 is configured as a garden tool, in particular a pushable one, especially a lawnmower. In the present embodiment, the machine tool 14 is configured as a lawnmower by way of example.The machine tool 14 can be configured, in particular, as a motorized hedge trimmer, a pole pruner, a chainsaw, a machine tool other than a garden tool, especially a hand-held machine tool, for example a jigsaw, a circular saw, a drill, or the like, or as another machine tool that would appear suitable to a person skilled in the art. The machine tool switching device 10 is configured, in particular, for electronic control of the at least one electrical drive unit 12 of the at least one machine tool 14. Preferably, the machine tool switching device 10 is configured for electronic control of the at least one electrical drive unit 12 of the machine tool 14, which drives at least one machining unit of the machine tool 14, for example, a mower, a saw chain, a shear blade, or the like., is provided (not shown further here). Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the machine tool switching device 10 is configured for electronic control of at least one further electrical drive unit of the machine tool 14, which is provided for driving at least one propulsion unit 54 of the machine tool 14, for example drive wheels 56 of the machine tool 14 designed as a lawnmower.

[0029] The machine tool switching device 10, in particular a housing unit 38 of the machine tool switching device 10, is preferably designed as a box, a case, or the like. Preferably, the machine tool switching device 10, in particular the housing unit 38, can be attached to the machine tool 14, in particular by a user of the machine tool 14 or the machine tool switching device 10. Preferably, the machine tool switching device 10, in particular the housing unit 38, can be attached to the machine tool 14 without tools. Figure 1 The machine tool switching device 10, in particular the housing unit 38, is attached in particular to a push bar 58 of the machine tool 14.

[0030] Figure 2 shows a detailed view of the machine tool switching device 10 from Fig. 1 in one at machine tool 14 from Fig. 1The machine tool switching device 10 is shown in a perspective view of the assembled state. It comprises, in particular, at least one mechanical actuating unit 16, 16' and at least one electronic unit 18, which is configured to output at least one signal, in particular at least one control signal, depending on actuation by the actuating unit 16, 16'. Preferably, the machine tool switching device 10 comprises at least one transmission unit 20, 20' operatively connected to the actuating unit 16, 16', which is provided for adjusting, in particular mechanically, a ratio between an actuating travel of the actuating unit 16, 16' and a switching travel of the actuating unit 16, 16'.

[0031] The machine tool 14 preferably has at least one operating element 60, for example, an operating handle, an operating lever, an operating switch, or the like, which was intended for actuating the drive unit with an internal combustion engine originally present in the machine tool 14. In the present embodiment, the operating element 60 is designed as an operating handle. Preferably, the operating element 60 has at least two different positions between which the operating element 60 can be moved, for example, displaced, pivoted, or the like, over a certain distance. Preferably, the actuating unit 16, 16', in particular at least one actuating element 34, 34' of the actuating unit 16, 16', can be coupled to the operating element 60. The actuating element 34, 34' is preferably designed as an actuating cable, an actuating wire, or the like.Preferably, depending on the actuation of the control element 60 of the machine tool 14, the actuating element 34, 34' coupled to the control element 60 is actuated, in particular by pulling on the actuating element 34, 34'. Preferably, the actuating element 34, 34' is operatively connected to at least one further element, in particular to a sliding element 26, 26', of the actuating unit 16, 16', which is provided in particular for actuating the electronic unit 18. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the actuating element 34, 34' is provided for actuating the electronic unit 18.

[0032] Figure 3 shows an exploded view of the machine tool switching device 10 from Fig. 1in a perspective view. The electronic unit 18 preferably has at least one switching element 28, 30, 62, such as a microswitch, a potentiometer, a relay, or the like. Preferably, the actuating unit 16, 16', in particular the sliding element 26, 26', is designed to actuate the at least one switching element 28, 30 of the electronic unit 18 depending on an actuation of the control element 60. By way of example, it is conceivable that, depending on an actuation of the control element 60, the actuating element 34, 34' is moved, which in turn moves the sliding element 26, 26', which in turn actuates the at least one switching element 28, 30 of the electronic unit 18 depending on the movement.Preferably, the at least one switching element 28, 30, 62, in particular a switching element 28, 30, 62 designed as a microswitch, has at least two switching positions, wherein in a first switching position a signal for deactivating the electric drive unit 12 is output and in a second switching position a signal for activating the electric drive unit 12. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the at least one switching element 28, 30, 62, in particular a switching element designed as a potentiometer, has a plurality of switching positions, in particular a continuously variable switching position, wherein, for example, different signals for setting different rotational speeds of the electric drive unit 12 are output depending on different switching positions.The electronic unit 18 can, in particular, comprise a plurality of switching elements 28, 30, 62, especially corresponding to a number of actuating units 16, 16' of the machine tool switching device 10. In the present embodiment, the electronic unit 18 has, by way of example, three switching elements 28, 30, 62, which are designed, by way of example, at least substantially analogous to each other, in particular as microswitches (see . Figure 4In the present embodiment, the machine tool switching device 10 includes, by way of example, the actuating unit 16 and a further, in particular optional, actuating unit 16', which are designed, by way of example, at least substantially analogous to each other. The actuating unit 16 is provided, in particular, for actuating a switching element 28 of the electronic unit 18. The further actuating unit 16' is provided for actuating a further switching element 30 of the electronic unit 18. For the sake of clarity, the following description is limited to the actuating unit 16 and the switching element 28. The description can also be applied, at least substantially analogously, to the further actuating unit 16' and the further switching element 30. The electronic unit 18 includes, in particular, an additional switching element 62.The additional switching element 62 can be actuated, in particular, by a secondary actuating unit 52 of the machine tool switching device 10. Preferably, the electronic unit 18 comprises at least one circuit board 64 on which the switching elements 28, 30, 62 are arranged. Preferably, the electronic unit 18 includes at least one signal line element 66, in particular a cable, which can be electrically connected to the electric drive unit 12. Preferably, the electronic unit 18 is configured to output the signals to the electric drive unit 12 via the signal line element 66.

[0033] Preferably, the machine tool switching device 10 can have a plurality of translation units 20, 20', in particular a number of translation units 20, 20' corresponding to a number of actuating units 16, 16'. In the present embodiment, the machine tool switching device 10 has, by way of example, one translation unit 20, which is assigned to the actuating unit 16, and another, in particular optional, translation unit 20', which is assigned to the further actuating unit 16'. The translation unit 20 and the further translation unit 20' are designed, in particular, at least substantially analogously to each other. For the sake of clarity, the following description is limited to the translation unit 20. The description can also be applied, at least substantially analogously, to the further translation unit 20'.In particular, the actuation path of the actuating unit 16 depends on the distance traveled between the at least two switching positions of the control element 60. Specifically, the actuation path of the actuating unit 16 can differ on different machine tools 14, which in particular have different distances traveled between the at least two switching positions of the control elements 60. Preferably, the transmission unit 20 is designed to specify an at least substantially constant switching path, independent of the actuation path of the actuating unit 16, and in particular of different control elements 60 on different machine tools 14.

[0034] According to the invention, the transmission unit 20 is designed as a mechanical transmission unit 20, which in particular has mechanical elements for adjusting the ratio between the actuation travel and the switching travel. The transmission unit 20 has a plurality of pressure and / or tension elements 22, 24, which are operatively connected to the actuation unit 16, in particular to the actuation element 34 and / or to the sliding element 26. The at least one pressure and / or tension element 22, 24, in particular a spring, a pressure cylinder, or the like, is provided in particular for applying a compressive force and / or a tensile force to the actuation element 34 and / or the sliding element 26. Additionally, it is conceivable that the mechanical transmission unit 20 has gears, a cable system, or the like for adjusting the ratio between the actuation travel and the switching travel.As an alternative not in accordance with the invention, it is conceivable that the translation unit 20 is designed as an at least partially electrical, in particular as an electromechanical, translation unit, in particular with at least one actuator for adjusting the ratio between the actuation path and the switching path, as a hydraulic translation unit, in particular with at least one hydraulic cylinder for adjusting the ratio between the actuation path and the switching path, or as a pneumatic translation unit, in particular with at least one pneumatic cylinder for adjusting the ratio between the actuation path and the switching path.

[0035] Preferably, the translation unit 20 is designed to provide a switching travel of the actuating unit 16, particularly until a switching point of the electronic unit 18 is reached, which is shorter than the actuating travel of the actuating unit 16. Depending on the machine tool 14 with which the machine tool switching device 10 is used, and particularly depending on the operating element 60 of the machine tool 14, the actuating travel of the actuating unit 16 can be, for example, at least 5 cm, at least 10 cm, at least 20 cm, or at least 30 cm long. In particular, the translation unit 20 is designed to provide a switching travel of the actuating unit 16 of at most 2 cm, preferably at most 1.5 cm, particularly preferably at most 1 cm, and most preferably at most 0.5 cm.

[0036] By way of example, the transmission unit 20 comprises at least one pressure and / or tension element 22, 24, which is provided for adjusting the switching travel of the actuating unit 16 and / or for returning the actuating unit 16 to a non-actuated initial position. In the present embodiment, the transmission unit 20 has two pressure and / or tension elements 22, 24 according to the invention. The pressure and / or tension elements 22, 24 are designed as springs, here as compression springs and tension springs. Preferably, the pressure and / or tension elements 22, 24 are designed as helical springs. Preferably, the pressure and / or tension elements 22, 24 are designed as metal springs. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the pressure and / or tension elements 22, 24 are designed as rubber springs, as air springs, as gas springs, or as other pressure and / or tension elements that would appear useful to a person skilled in the art.Preferably, the pressure and / or tension elements 22, 24 are operatively connected to the actuating unit 16, in particular to the actuating element 34 and / or to the sliding element 26, and in particular mechanically coupled. Preferably, the transmission unit 20 comprises at least two pressure and / or tension elements 22, 24, wherein at least a second pressure and / or tension element 24 is mechanically coupled to the actuating element 34 and at least a first pressure and / or tension element 22 is mechanically coupled to the sliding element 26. In particular, the switching path depends on parameters, especially a compressive force and / or a tensile force, for example a spring strength, a length or the like, of the compressive and / or tensile elements 22, 24. In particular, the switching path is adjustable by adjusting parameters, especially the compressive force and / or the tensile force, for example a spring strength, a length or the like, of the compressive and / or tensile elements 22, 24.Preferably, the pressure and / or pull elements 22, 24 are designed to apply a restoring force to the actuating unit 16, in particular the actuating element 34 and / or the sliding element 26, in a switching position actuated, in particular by the operating element 60. In particular, the pressure and / or pull elements 22, 24 are designed to return the actuating unit 16, in particular the actuating element 34 and / or the sliding element 26, from the actuated switching position to the unactuated initial position, depending on the release of the actuating force, in particular by pulling or pushing it into the unactuated initial position.

[0037] Preferably, the machine tool switching device 10 comprises at least one housing unit, in particular the aforementioned housing unit 38, which has at least one receiving area 40, 42, in particular at least one receiving channel, in which the transmission unit 20, 20' and / or the actuating unit 16, 16' can be arranged. Preferably, the housing unit 38 can have a plurality of receiving areas 40, 42, in particular a number of receiving areas 40, 42 corresponding to a number of actuating elements 34, 34', 44. In the present embodiment, the housing unit 38 has, by way of example, one receiving area 40 and a further receiving area 42. The receiving area 40 is provided in particular for receiving the actuating unit 16 and the transmission unit 20. The further receiving area 42 is provided in particular for receiving the further actuating unit 16' and the further transmission unit 20'.The housing unit 38 is preferably box-shaped in its assembled state. Preferably, the housing unit 38 is made of plastic. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the housing unit 38 is made of a composite material, a metal, or another material that would appear suitable to a person skilled in the art. Preferably, the transmission unit 20, the actuating unit 16, and / or the electronic unit 18 are arranged at least partially within the housing unit 38, in particular in at least one receiving section 68 of the housing unit 38. Preferably, the housing unit 38 has at least one mounting section 70, arranged separately from the receiving section 68, which is provided for fastening to the machine tool 14.Preferably, in a state of attachment to the machine tool 14, at least one component, in particular a rod, in the present embodiment by way of example the push bar 58, of the housing unit 38 extends through the fastening section 70 of the machine tool 14 (cf. . Figure 2 In particular, the housing unit 38 has at least two, preferably at least three, and especially preferably at least four housing parts 72, 74, 76, 78, which are fixed to one another, in particular by means of fixing elements 80, especially by means of screws, of the machine tool switching device 10. In the present embodiment, the housing unit 38 has, by way of example, a first housing part 72, a second housing part 74, a third housing part 76, and a third housing part 78.

[0038] For the sake of clarity, the following description is limited to the receiving area 40. The description can be applied, at least in essence, to the further receiving area 42. The receiving area 40 is preferably delimited by rib elements 82 of at least the first housing part 72 of the housing unit 38. Preferably, the receiving area 40 is designed to accommodate at least the entire first pressure and / or tension element 22, the second pressure and / or tension element 24, and the sliding element 26. In particular, the receiving area 40 is precisely designed to accommodate the first pressure and / or tension element 22, the second pressure and / or tension element 24, and the sliding element 26. Preferably, the receiving area 40 is designed to accommodate at least the partial actuating element 34.In particular, the actuating element 34 extends section by section within the receiving area 40 and section by section outside the receiving area 40, particularly outside the housing unit 38. In particular, the housing unit 38, and in particular at least the first housing part 72 of the housing unit 38, has at least one passage 140 through which the actuating element 34 can extend out of the housing unit 38, in particular out of the receiving area 40. Preferably, the first pressure and / or tension element 22, the second pressure and / or tension element 24, and the sliding element 26 are arranged in the receiving area 40 in a mounted state of the housing unit 38 in directions transverse to a force direction 84 of the first pressure and / or tension element 22 and to a further force direction 86 of the second pressure and / or tension element 24, at least substantially without play (see [reference]). Figure 5 ).

[0039] Preferably, at least one receiving area, in particular the further receiving area 42, is provided for the passage of at least one further actuating element 44 of the actuating unit 16 free from an operative connection with the electronic unit 18, and in particular without any transmission linkage, through the complete housing unit 38. The further actuating element 44 can preferably be designed at least substantially analogous to the actuating element 34 with regard to its shape, material composition, or the like. Preferably, the further actuating element 44 is longer than the actuating element 34.Preferably, in its assembled state, the further actuating element 44 extends from the control element 60 of the machine tool 14, with which the machine tool switching device 10 is used, to a drive unit, in particular an internal combustion engine, which can be controlled via the further actuating element 44 (not shown here). In particular, the further actuating element 44 is provided for the mechanical actuation of the drive unit, which is designed to be different from an electric drive unit 12. The drive unit can, in particular, be provided for driving the propulsion unit 54 of the machine tool 14. For example, it is conceivable that the drive unit for driving the propulsion unit 54 has a pulley and that the further actuating element 44 is provided for adjusting the diameter of the pulley.Preferably, the housing unit 38, in particular at least the first housing part 72 of the housing unit 38, has at least one further passage 88 and at least one additional passage 90 through which the further actuating element 44 can extend. Preferably, the further passage 88 and the additional passage 90 are arranged on two walls 92, 94 of the housing unit 38, in particular of the first housing part 72, facing away from each other. In the present embodiment, the further passage 88 is arranged by way of example on a wall 92 and the additional passage 90 on a further wall 94. Preferably, the further receiving area 42 for a passage of the further actuating element 44 is free of the sliding element 26' of the further actuating unit 16', the first push and / or pull element 22' and the second push and / or pull element 24' of the further transmission unit 20'.Preferably, the further receiving area 42 is provided for alternating reception of the further actuating element 44 or the further translation unit 20' and the further actuating unit 16'.

[0040] Preferably, the machine tool switching device 10 comprises at least one output unit 50, which is provided for an output, in particular optical, acoustic and / or haptic, of at least one switching state and / or charging state of the electronic unit 18. Preferably, the output unit 50 is connected to the electronic unit 18 by means of signal transmission, in particular electrically. Preferably, the output unit 50 has at least one output element 96, which may in particular be arranged on the circuit board 64 of the electronic unit 18. In particular, the output unit 50 can have a plurality of output elements 96, in particular at least two, preferably at least three, and most preferably at least four output elements 96. In the present embodiment, the output unit 50 has, by way of example, four output elements 96.Preferably, the output unit 50 is designed as an optical output unit for the optical output of at least one switching state and / or charging state of the electronic unit 18 and, in particular, has at least one output element 96 designed as a light element. In the present embodiment, the output unit 50 has, by way of example, four output elements 96 designed as light elements. Preferably, the output elements 96 are designed as, in particular, multi-colored, light-emitting diodes. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the optical output unit 50 has at least one output element 96 designed as a display or the like.Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the output unit 50 is designed as an acoustic and / or haptic output unit for an acoustic and / or haptic output of at least one switching state and / or charge state of the electronic unit 18 and, in particular, has at least one acoustic output element, for example a loudspeaker, and / or at least one haptic output element, for example a vibration motor. The switching state of the electronic unit 18 indicates, in particular, the switching position of the switching elements 28, 30, 62 of the electronic unit 18. The charge state of the electronic unit 18 indicates, in particular, a remaining capacity of at least one power supply source of the electronic unit 18 and / or the machine tool 14, for example a battery (not shown further here). The third housing part 76 has, in particular, four recesses 98 through which the output elements 96 can shine.The output unit 50 has in particular at least one marking element 100 for marking the output unit 50, which can in particular be arranged on the third housing part 76.

[0041] Preferably, the machine tool switching device 10 comprises at least one secondary actuation unit, in particular the aforementioned secondary actuation unit 52, wherein the electronic unit 18 is configured to output the at least one signal depending on actuation by the actuation unit 16 and by the secondary actuation unit 52. The following description applies at least substantially analogously to an interaction of the secondary actuation unit 52 with the further actuation unit 16'. The secondary actuation unit 52 is preferably designed to actuate the at least one additional switching element 62 of the electronic unit 18. Preferably, the secondary actuation unit 52 is configured differently from the actuation unit 16. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the secondary actuation unit 52 is configured at least substantially analogously to the actuation unit 16.Preferably, the secondary actuation unit 52 comprises at least one secondary actuation element 102, which is designed to be free of any coupling with the operating element 60 of the machine tool 14. In particular, the secondary actuation element 102 can be actuated directly by a user of the machine tool switching device 10. Specifically, the secondary actuation element 102 is designed for direct, and in particular gearless, actuation of the additional switching element 62. The secondary actuation element 102 can be designed, in particular, as a push button, a slide switch, a rotary switch, or as another secondary actuation element that would appear suitable to a person skilled in the art. In the present embodiment, the secondary actuation element 102 is designed, by way of example, as a push button.In particular, the secondary actuating element 102 is arranged at least partially outside the housing unit 38, especially for actuation by the user, and at least partially inside the housing unit 38, especially for actuation of the additional switching element 62. Preferably, the secondary actuating unit 52 has at least one secondary push and / or pull element 104, in particular a compression spring, which is provided for a spring-elastic mounting, in particular a bistable mounting, of the secondary actuating element 102 on the housing unit 38. In particular, the secondary actuating element 102 can be latched in at least one switching position, in particular at least in the actuating position.Preferably, the electronic unit 18 is configured to output at least one signal, in particular at least one control signal for activating the electric drive unit 12, to the electric drive unit 12, depending on an actuation by the actuation unit 16 and an, in particular simultaneous, actuation by the secondary actuation unit 52.

[0042] Figure 4 The electronic unit 18 of the machine tool switching device 10 is shown. Fig. 1In a perspective view, switching elements 28, 30, and 62 are clearly visible. Switching element 28 and the additional switching element 30 are arranged at the same height on the circuit board 64, particularly when viewed along a main extension direction 106 of the circuit board 64. The additional switching element 62 is arranged offset from switching element 28 and the additional switching element 30 along the main extension direction 106 of the circuit board 64. Switching element 28 and the additional switching element 30 are spaced apart from each other on the circuit board 64, viewed transversely to the main extension direction 106 of the circuit board 64. The additional switching element 62 is positioned centrally between switching element 28 and the additional switching element 30, viewed transversely to the main extension direction 106 of the circuit board 64.

[0043] Figure 5 The machine tool switching device 10 is shown. Fig. 1 in a schematic sectional view. Figure 5The actuating unit 16 is shown in a non-actuated switching position. For the sake of clarity, the following description is limited to the interaction of the actuating unit 16 with the transmission unit 20 and the switching element 28. The description can be applied, at least in essence, analogously to the interaction of the further actuating unit 16 with the further transmission unit 20 and the further switching element 30. Preferably, the transmission unit 20 comprises at least two pressure and / or tension elements, in particular the aforementioned pressure and / or tension elements 22, 24, wherein at least a first pressure and / or tension element 22 is designed as a tension spring and at least a second pressure and / or tension element 24 is designed as a compression spring. Preferably, the first pressure and / or tension element 22 is directly operatively connected to the sliding element 26, in particular mechanically coupled to the sliding element 26.Preferably, the second pressure and / or tension element 24 is directly operatively connected to the actuating element 34, in particular mechanically coupled to the actuating element 34. Preferably, the first pressure and / or tension element 22 and the second pressure and / or tension element 24 are arranged, in particular in the housing unit 38, such that the force direction 84, along which the first pressure and / or tension element 22 applies a force, in particular a tensile force, to the actuating unit 16, in particular the sliding element 26, and the further force direction 86, along which the second pressure and / or tension element 24 applies a force, in particular a compressive force, to the actuating unit 16, in particular the actuating element 34, are at least substantially parallel to each other.Preferably, the force direction 84 and the further force direction 86 point opposite to an actuation direction 108, in which the actuating unit 16 is moved depending on an actuation, in particular via the operating element 60. In particular, the force direction 84 and the further force direction 86 run at least substantially antiparallel to the actuation direction 108. In particular, the second pressure and / or tension element 24 is provided to exert a pressure force on the actuating element 34 acting opposite to the actuation direction 108. In particular, the first pressure and / or tension element 22 is provided to exert a tension force on the sliding element 26 acting opposite to the actuation direction 108. The first pressure and / or tension element 22 is preferably attached to the sliding element 26 and to the further wall 94 of the housing unit 38.In particular, the first pressure and / or tension element 22 is designed to pull the slide element 26 towards the further wall 94. The second pressure and / or tension element 24 is preferably mounted on the slide element 26. In particular, the second pressure and / or tension element 24 is designed to press the actuating element 34 against the slide element 26, in particular towards the further wall 94. In particular, the actuating element 34 extends at least partially within the second pressure and / or tension element 24. In particular, the actuating element 34 has at least one end head 110 against which the second pressure and / or tension element 24 can press. Preferably, parameters, in particular a compressive force and / or a tensile force, for example a spring strength, a length, an arrangement, or the like, can be adjusted., the ratio between the actuation path and the switching path can be adjusted relative to each other by the pressure and / or pull elements 22, 24.

[0044] Preferably, the actuating unit 16 comprises at least one sliding element, in particular the aforementioned sliding element 26, operatively connected to the transmission unit 20, for actuating at least one switching element 28, in particular a microswitch, of the electronic unit 18, wherein a geometric design of the sliding element 26 influences the switching travel of the actuating unit 16, in particular up to reaching a switching point of the electronic unit 18, relative to a maximum adjustment travel 32 of the sliding element 26. In particular, the maximum adjustment travel 32 of the sliding element 26 is independent of the actuating travel of the actuating unit 16. In particular, the sliding element 26 has the same maximum adjustment travel 32 regardless of the machine tool 14 with which the machine tool switching device 10 is used. The sliding element 26 is preferably designed to actuate the switching element 28 of the electronic unit 18.In particular, the sliding element 26 is designed to move a switching tongue 112 of the switching element 28, especially transversely to the force direction 84 and to the further force direction 86. Preferably, a movement of the switching tongue 112 closes at least one contact of the switching element 28, which is designed in particular as a microswitch, and / or changes a resistance value of the switching element 28, which is designed in particular as a potentiometer. Preferably, the sliding element 26 has at least one actuating lug 114, which is designed to actuate the switching element 28, in particular to move the switching tongue 112 of the switching element 28.

[0045] The length of the switching path, in particular until the switching point is reached, especially relative to the length of the maximum adjustment path 32 of the sliding element 26, depends in particular on a geometric design of the sliding element 26, especially the actuating nose 114. By way of example, it is conceivable that the sliding element 26, in particular the actuating nose 114, with a large maximum extent transverse to the force direction 84 and to the further force direction 86, actuates the switching element 28 after a shorter switching path, in particular relative to the maximum adjustment path 32 of the sliding element 26, than another sliding element, in particular a different actuating nose, with a smaller maximum extent transverse to the force direction 84 and to the further force direction 86.For example, it is conceivable that the sliding element 26, which has the actuating nose 114 in front of another sliding element when viewed along the force direction 84 and the further force direction 86, actuates the switching element 28 after a shorter switching path, in particular relative to the maximum adjustment path 32 of the sliding element 26.

[0046] Preferably, the actuating unit 16 comprises at least one actuating element operatively connected to the transmission unit 20, in particular the aforementioned actuating element 34, and in particular at least one actuating cable, for actuating the sliding element 26, wherein the switching travel of the actuating unit 16, in particular until the switching point of the electronic unit 18 is reached, relative to a maximum adjustment travel 36 of the actuating element 34, depends on a design of the transmission unit 20. In particular, the maximum adjustment travel 36 of the actuating element 34 depends on the control element 60, in particular on a geometry of the control element 60, of the machine tool 14 with which the machine tool switching device 10 is used. In particular, the actuating element 34 can have different maximum adjustment travels 36 depending on different machine tools 14, in particular on different control elements 60.Preferably, the switching travel, in particular until the switching point of the electronic unit 18 is reached, especially relative to the maximum adjustment travel 36 of the actuating element 34, depends on a design, in particular on parameters, of the first pressure and / or pull element 22 and the second pressure and / or pull element 24. By way of example, it is conceivable that the transmission unit 20 with the first pressure and / or pull element 22, which has a lower spring strength than the second pressure and / or pull element 24 of the transmission unit 20, provides a shorter switching travel, in particular relative to the maximum adjustment travel 36 of the actuating element 34, than another transmission unit with a first pressure and / or pull element that has a higher spring strength than a second pressure and / or pull element of the other transmission unit.

[0047] Figure 6 The machine tool switching device 10 is shown. Fig. 1in another schematic sectional view. In Figure 6 The actuating unit 16 is shown in an actuated switching position. The sliding element 26 has, in particular, traveled its maximum adjustment path 32 and actuated the switching element 28. The actuating element 34 has, in particular, traveled its maximum adjustment path 36.

[0048] Figure 7 Figure 116 shows the switching path of the actuating unit 16 of the machine tool switching device 10 according to the invention. Fig. 1in a schematic representation. Diagram 116 includes, in particular, an abscissa 118 and an ordinate 120. A displacement is plotted on the abscissa 118. A spring force is plotted on the ordinate 120. The displacement is proportional to the spring force, as illustrated by a straight line 122. The maximum adjustment travel 32 of the sliding element 26 is marked in diagram 116. Preferably, the sliding element 26 and / or the transmission unit 20 are designed such that the switching travel of the actuating unit 16, in particular until the switching point of the electronic unit 18 is reached, corresponds to at most 30% of the maximum adjustment travel 32 of the sliding element 26. 30% of the maximum adjustment travel 32 of the sliding element 26 is marked in diagram 116, in particular by a line 124.In particular, the sliding element 26 and / or the transmission unit 20 are designed such that the switching travel of the actuating unit 16, especially until the switching point of the electronic unit 18 is reached, corresponds to at most 30%, preferably at most 20%, and particularly preferably at most 10% of the maximum adjustment travel 32 of the sliding element 26. In particular, the sliding element 26 and / or the transmission unit 20 are designed such that the sliding element 26 actuates the switching element 28 of the electronic unit 18 no later than after the sliding element 26 has been displaced by 30% of the maximum adjustment travel 32 of the sliding element 26.

[0049] Figure 8 Another diagram, number 126, shows the switching path from Fig. 7in a schematic representation. The further diagram 126 includes, in particular, an abscissa axis 128 and an ordinate axis 130. A distance is plotted on the abscissa axis 128. A spring force is plotted on the ordinate axis 130. The distance is proportional to the spring force, as illustrated by a further straight line 132. The further diagram 126 corresponds, at least essentially, to a zoomed-out version of diagram 116 from Figure 7In further diagram 126, the maximum adjustment travel 36 of the actuating element 34 is marked in particular. Preferably, the transmission unit 20 is designed such that the switching travel of the actuating unit 16, in particular until the switching point of the electronic unit 18 is reached, corresponds to at most 15% of the maximum adjustment travel 36 of the actuating element 34. 15% of the maximum adjustment travel 36 of the actuating element 34 is marked in further diagram 126 in particular by a further distance 134. In particular, the transmission unit 20 is designed such that the switching travel of the actuating unit 16, in particular until the switching point of the electronic unit 18 is reached, corresponds to at most 15%, preferably at most 10%, and most preferably at most 5% of the maximum adjustment travel 36 of the actuating element 34.In particular, the translation unit 20 is designed such that the actuating unit 16, especially the sliding element 26, actuates the switching element 28 of the electronic unit 18 no later than after the actuating element 34 has been displaced by 15% of its maximum adjustment travel 36. A possible switching travel of the actuating unit 16, provided that the switching travel is at most 30% of the maximum adjustment travel 32 of the sliding element 26 and at most 15% of the maximum adjustment travel 36 of the actuating element 34, is defined in particular by an additional path 136.

[0050] Figure 9 The machine tool switching device 10 is shown. Fig. 1in a schematic representation. Preferably, the housing unit 38 defines at least one opening 46 to the at least one receiving area, in particular to the further receiving area 42, which allows the insertion of the at least one further actuating element 44 of the actuating unit 16 into the at least one receiving area, in particular into the further receiving area 42, in a closed state of the housing unit 38. Figure 9The housing unit 38 is shown in a closed state. In particular, the first housing part 72, the second housing part 74, and the third housing part 76, which form the receiving section 68, are fixed to one another. Preferably, the closed state of the housing unit 38 differs from a state of the housing unit 38 mounted on the machine tool 14. In particular, the opening 46 in the state of the housing unit 38 mounted on the machine tool 14 is closed by at least one fixing housing part, in particular by the fourth housing part 78, of the housing unit 38 (see Figure 1). Figure 10Preferably, the opening 46 extends transversely to a main extension direction 138 of the further receiving area 42 into the further receiving area 42. Preferably, the housing unit 38 can have at least one deflecting element arranged on, and in particular in, the opening 46, against which the further actuating element 44 can bear (not shown here). Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the housing unit 38 has at least one damping element, for example made of rubber, arranged on, and in particular in, the opening 46, which is provided for vibration damping of the further actuating element 44 extending through the housing unit 38, in particular for noise reduction (not shown here).

[0051] Preferably, the housing unit 38 forms at least a portion of at least one, in particular funnel-shaped, guide area 48 for feeding the further actuating element 44 to the opening 46. Preferably, the guide area 48 is formed, and in particular delimited, by the first housing part 72 and by the third housing part 76, which form the receiving section 68. In particular, the first housing part 72 and the third housing part 76 have a shape in a region around the opening 46 that defines the funnel-shaped guide area 48. Preferably, at least one of the housing parts 72, 76, in particular the first housing part 72, tapers towards the opening 46. In particular, the first housing part 72 and the third housing part 76 form the guide area 48, which tapers in a funnel-like manner towards the opening 46.

[0052] Figure 10 The machine tool switching device 10 is shown. Fig. 1in a further schematic representation. In Figure 10 The further actuating element 44 is inserted, in particular, into the further receiving area 42. Specifically, the fourth housing part 78 is fixed to the first housing part 72 and, in particular, closes the opening 46.

Claims

1. Machine tool switching device, in particular for sliding garden tools, for electronic control of at least one electric drive unit (12) of at least one machine tool, having at least one mechanical actuation unit (16; 16'), having at least one electronics unit (18) which is configured to output at least one signal, in particular at least one control signal, depending on actuation by the actuation unit (16; 16'), and having at least one translation unit (20; 20') which is operatively connected to the actuation unit (16; 16') and is intended to adjust, in particular mechanically, a ratio between an actuation travel of the actuation unit (16; 16') and a switching travel of the actuation unit (16; 16'), characterized in that the translation unit (20, 20') comprises at least two compression and / or tension elements (22, 24; 22', 24'), wherein at least a first compression and / or tension element (22; 22') is in the form of a tension spring and at least a second compression and / or tension element (24; 24') is in the form of a compression spring.

2. Machine tool switching device according to Claim 1, characterized in that the translation unit (20; 20') is intended to provide a switching travel of the actuation unit (16; 16') which is shorter than the actuation travel of the actuation unit (16; 16'), in particular up until a switching point of the electronics unit (18) is reached.

3. Machine tool switching device according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the translation unit (20; 20') comprises at least one compression and / or tension element (22, 24; 22', 24') which is intended to adjust the switching travel of the actuation unit (16; 16') and / or to return the actuation unit (16; 16') to an actuation-free starting position.

4. Machine tool switching device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the actuation unit (16; 16') comprises at least one slide element (26; 26'), which is operatively connected to the translation unit (20; 20'), for actuating at least one switching element (28, 30), in particular a microswitch, of the electronics unit (18), wherein a geometric formation of the slide element (26; 26') affects the switching travel of the actuation unit (16; 16') relative to a maximum adjustment travel (32) of the slide element (26; 26'), in particular up until a switching point of the electronics unit (18) is reached.

5. Machine tool switching device according to Claim 4, characterized in that the slide element (26; 26') and / or the translation unit (20; 20') are / is designed in such a way that the switching travel of the actuation unit (16; 16') is equal to at most 30% of the maximum adjustment travel (32) of the slide element (26; 26'), in particular up until the switching point of the electronics unit (18) is reached.

6. Machine tool switching device according to Claim 4 or 5, characterized in that the actuation unit (16; 16') comprises at least one actuation element (34; 34'), in particular at least one actuation cable, which is operatively connected to the translation unit (20; 20'), for actuating the slide element (26; 26'), wherein the switching travel of the actuation unit (16; 16') is dependent on a formation of the translation unit (20; 20') relative to a maximum adjustment travel (36) of the actuation element (34; 34'), in particular up until the switching point of the electronics unit (18) is reached.

7. Machine tool switching device according to Claim 6, characterized in that the translation unit (20; 20') is designed in such a way that the switching travel of the actuation unit (16; 16') is equal to at most 15% of the maximum adjustment travel (36) of the actuation element (34; 34'), in particular up until the switching point of the electronics unit (18) is reached.

8. Machine tool switching device according to one of the preceding claims, <b>characterized by at least one housing unit (38) which has at least one receiving region (40, 42), in particular at least one receiving channel, in which the translation unit (20; 20') and / or the actuation unit (16; 16') are / is able to be arranged.

9. Machine tool switching device according to Claim 8, characterized in that the at least one receiving region (42) is intended to feed at least one further actuation element (44) of the actuation unit (16) through the entire housing unit (38) free from an operative connection with the electronics unit (18), and in particular translation-free.

10. Machine tool switching device according to Claim 9, characterized in that the housing unit (38) contains at least one opening (46) to the at least one receiving region (42), which opening allows the at least one further actuation element (44) of the actuation unit (16) to be inserted into the at least one receiving region (42) in a closed state of the housing unit (38).

11. Machine tool switching device according to Claim 10, characterized in that the housing unit (38) forms, at least in sections, at least one, in particular funnel-like, guide region (48) for guiding the further actuation element (44) to the opening (46).

12. Machine tool switching device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by at least one output unit (50) which is intended to output, in particular visually, audibly and / or haptically, at least one switching state and / or state of charge of the electronics unit (18).

13. Machine tool switching device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by at least one secondary actuation unit (52), wherein the electronics unit (18) is configured to output the at least one signal in dependence on actuation by the actuation unit (16; 16') and by the secondary actuation unit (52).

14. Machine tool switching device according to Claim 8, characterized in that the housing unit (38) is able to be fastened to the machine tool, wherein the actuation unit (16; 16'), in particular at least one actuation element (34; 34') of the actuation unit (16; 16'), is able to be coupled to an operating element (60) of the machine tool.

15. Machine tool, in particular a sliding garden tool, having at least one electric drive unit (12) and having at least one machine tool switching device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the machine tool switching device is configured to electronically control the electric drive unit (12).