HANDLE FOR A HAND-GUIDED TOOL AND CUTTER

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a handle for a hand-held working device of the type specified in the preamble of claim 1 and to a brush cutter of the type specified in the preamble of claim 19.

[0002] EP 2 845 460 A1 discloses a brush cutter with a handlebar mounted on its guide tube, which carries two handles. One of the controls is located on the inside of the handle, which carries the operating elements.

[0003] During operation, the handle(s) must be used to direct the tool. This may require applying forces in different directions. To mow with a brush cutter, the tool must be moved back and forth. However, it may also be necessary to push or press the tool into a workpiece.

[0004] The invention is based on the object of creating a handle for a hand-held tool that allows for the introduction of guides in an ergonomic and effortless manner. A further object of the invention is to provide a brush cutter that enables ergonomic and effortless operation.

[0005] This object is achieved with respect to the handle for a hand-held implement by a handle having the features of claim 1. With respect to the brush cutter, the object is achieved by a brush cutter having the features of claim 19.

[0006] It is intended that a thumb rest surface is arranged on the inside of the handle which, when viewed from the side perpendicular to the inside, forms an angle of at least 20° and at most 70° with the longitudinal axis of the handle at any point. This inclination of the thumb rest surface results in an ergonomic hand position for the thumb. Furthermore, forces can be very effectively introduced into the tool via the thumb rest surface, particularly when pushing and pushing a tool, for example a blade on a brush cutter. The forces that the operator has to introduce when pushing and pushing a tool do not only have to be applied from the palm of the hand, but can also be applied by the thumb. In particular, the introduction of force components towards the attachment end of the handle is possible in an effort-saving and ergonomic manner.

[0007] The thumb rest surface is advantageously designed as the upper surface of a raised portion on the inside of the shaft. The thumb rest surface advantageously protrudes laterally compared to a roughly straight interior. Alternatively, the thumb rest surface can be designed as the bottom of a recess on the inside. A combination of raised portion and recess can also be provided.

[0008] The thumb rest surface is preferably a relatively flat surface. The thumb rest surface lies between two parallel planes. The distance between the two planes is advantageously less than 3 mm, in particular less than 2 mm. The thumb rest surface has a length of at least 2.5 cm and a width of at least 8 mm. The length and width of the thumb rest surface indicate the maximum length and maximum width. In the areas outside the two parallel planes, the thumb rest surface advantageously transitions with an adapted curvature into the inside and the front and / or back of the handle. The thumb rest surface can be a flat surface. However, it can also be provided that the thumb rest surface is slightly curved. The radius of curvature of the thumb rest surface is preferably as large as possible in all directions.The curvature of the thumb rest surface advantageously has a minimum radius of at least 10 mm, in particular at least 15 mm, and advantageously at least 30 mm. The thumb rest surface can have different curvatures in different directions.

[0009] The thumb rest is advantageously arranged at a distance from the free end of the shaft. Accordingly, in one embodiment, the thumb rest does not extend to the free end of the shaft. The distance between the thumb rest and the free end of the shaft is advantageously at least 1 cm. This distance is particularly intended for a handle that does not bear any operating elements. Preferably, the distance between the thumb rest and the free end of the shaft of at least 1 cm is provided for a left-hand handle. For a handle that bears at least one operating element, a smaller distance between the thumb rest and the free end can be advantageous.

[0010] The thumb rest surface advantageously merges into the inside of the handle with a concave curvature. In a sectional plane that runs parallel to the longitudinal axis of the handle and through the inside, the thumb rest surface advantageously forms an angle with the longitudinal axis that opens towards the attachment end. The thumb rest surface advantageously slopes downwards towards the user's other hand. The thumb rest surface advantageously rises towards the longitudinal axis. This allows a user to easily place their thumb laterally on the thumb rest surface. Sliding the thumb rest surface lengthwise is not necessary. However, a slight rise of the thumb rest surface towards the other hand or a slight fall towards the longitudinal axis can also be advantageous. The angle is advantageously 30° to 110°, in particular 60° to 90°. The angle is preferably less than 90°.The angle that the thumb rest surface forms with the longitudinal axis can vary over the length of the thumb rest surface.

[0011] The handle advantageously has a receptacle at its attachment end for attaching the handle, for example, to a handlebar. The longitudinal axis of the handle is advantageously the longitudinal center axis of the hollow receptacle. The longitudinal axis extends in the attachment direction of the handle. It can also be provided that the handle is thickened at the attachment end and at the free end, with a grip section extending between them, which the operator can grasp with his fingers during operation. The longitudinal axis advantageously runs through the centroids of the grip section in sectional planes adjacent to the thickened ends.

[0012] It has been shown that working with the hand-held tool is less tiring for an operator if the hand position can be changed several times during the course of work. In order to not only enable the shaft to be grasped, but also to rest the hand, the shaft is provided with its free end forming a support surface for a user's hand. Particularly preferably, the support surface merges via a continuous curve into a rear side running in the circumferential direction of the shaft between the inside and the outside. Due to the continuous curve, the operator's hand can continuously change between different gripping positions, whereby the operator's hand can be moved along the curve from the rear side to the support surface and back again. The curve is advantageously designed with a comparatively large radius to allow the user's hand to slide off without disruption.In a side view of the outside of the handle, the curve advantageously has a radius of at least 1.5 cm, in particular of at least 2 cm, at every point.

[0013] The handle can be a handle that carries operating elements. Advantageously, a first operating element is pivotably mounted on the shaft about a first pivot axis, and a second operating element is pivotably mounted about a second pivot axis. The first operating element is advantageously designed to control the drive motor, and the second operating element, in the unactuated position, prevents the drive motor from being controlled via the first operating element. In an advantageous embodiment, the second operating element can mechanically lock the first operating element in its unactuated position.However, it can also be provided that the second operating element allows pivoting of the first operating element, but that this pivoting in the unactuated position of the second operating element does not lead to activation of the drive motor, for example by appropriate wiring of switches that are actuated by the operating elements or by appropriate mechanical coupling.

[0014] In this case, the longitudinal axis of the handle is advantageously considered to be an axis that is perpendicular to the first pivot axis and perpendicular to the second pivot axis. When viewed in the direction of the longitudinal axis, the first pivot axis and the second pivot axis advantageously form an angle of less than 180°, in particular less than 120°. Particularly preferably, the first and second pivot axes form an angle of approximately 90° when viewed in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the handle. The two pivot axes are therefore not parallel to one another, as is usual for operating elements arranged on opposite sides of a handle. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the first operating element is arranged on the front of the handle and the second operating element on the outside of the handle. This allows the user to operate the second operating element with the palm of their hand.

[0015] The second operating element advantageously has an actuating section which, in the unactuated position, projects from the shaft and has a first end closer to the fastening end and a second end closer to the free end of the shaft. The second pivot axis is advantageously arranged closer to the first end of the actuating section than to the second end of the actuating section. The pivot axis is preferably closer to the fastening end than to the free end of the shaft. As a result, the operating element performs its greatest movement at the end closer to the free end of the shaft. This enables safe actuation of the second operating element even if the operator can only reach and actuate the actuating section at its second end due to their chosen hand position, for example resting their hand on the support surface.The provided mounting of the second control element simplifies operation of the tool in different hand positions. When the second control element is activated, the actuating section of the second control element advantageously protrudes no more than 3 mm beyond the outer contour of the shaft. This allows the second control element to be easily pressed with the palm of the hand. When changing the hand position on the handle, the actuating section causes little or no interference with the operator's hand movement.

[0016] Advantageously, the first operating element has an actuating portion protruding from the shaft in the unactuated position. The actuating portion of the first operating element advantageously has a first end located closer to the fastening end and a second end located closer to the free end of the shaft. In an advantageous design, the first pivot axis is arranged closer to the second end of the actuating portion of the first operating element than to the first end of the actuating portion of the first operating element.

[0017] Advantageously, the actuating section of at least one operating element is less than 7 cm from the free end of the shaft. This allows the corresponding operating element to be gripped by the operator when the operator's hand rests on a support section at the free end of the shaft. Particularly preferably, the actuating sections of both operating elements are less than 7 cm from the free end of the shaft. This allows both operating elements to be actuated by the operator when the operator's hand rests on the support section at the free end of the shaft. So that both operating elements can be gripped by the operator in different hand positions, it is advantageously provided that the actuating section of the first operating element and the actuating section of the second operating element overlap over a length section of the shaft.The length of the longitudinal section of the shaft, measured in the direction of the longitudinal axis, is advantageously at least 30%, in particular at least 50%, of the length of the actuating section of the first control element, measured in the same direction. Particularly advantageously, the actuating sections of the two control elements overlap at least partially in a grip section of the shaft. The grip section of the shaft is advantageously a section located between two thickened end regions of the shaft.

[0018] The first control element is advantageously arranged on a front side extending in the circumferential direction of the shaft between the inside and outside, intended to rest on the user's fingers. The second control element is preferably arranged on the outside.

[0019] In an advantageous embodiment, the handle is provided with a third operating element. The third operating element is preferably arranged on the inside of the handle. The third operating element is intended in particular for actuation with an operator's thumb. The first operating element is advantageously intended predominantly for actuation with an operator's index and / or middle finger. The third operating element has an actuation position in which the third operating element begins to execute an actuation stroke when moving from an unactuated position to an actuated position. It can be provided that an idle stroke is provided for the third operating element between the unactuated position and the actuated position. However, it can also be provided that the actuation position corresponds to the unactuated position of the operating element.

[0020] In the actuated position, the third operating element advantageously protrudes no more than 1 mm beyond the outer contour of the handle when viewed in the direction of the longitudinal axis towards the fastening end of the shaft. When viewed perpendicularly towards the thumb support surface, the third operating element is located, in particular, behind the outer contour of the handle and is therefore concealed by the shaft. This prevents unintentional actuation of the third operating element when the operator's hand is resting on the support surface. In the non-actuated position, the third operating element advantageously protrudes beyond the contour of the shaft on at least one side, in particular on the side facing the fastening end.

[0021] The thumb support surface arranged on the inside of at least one of the handles, which in a side view perpendicular to the inside encloses an angle of at least 20° and at most 70° with the longitudinal axis at any point, is particularly advantageously provided for a brush cutter with a guide tube, wherein a tool unit is arranged at one end of the guide tube and wherein a handlebar is fixed to the guide tube, which carries a handle at each end.

[0022] Thanks to the thumb rest area on at least one of the handles, movements for pushing and pressing the tool can be easily initiated via the thumb rest area into the handles and from there into the tool unit.

[0023] In a particularly preferred design, both handles of the brush cutter have a thumb rest area on their inside.

[0024] Embodiments of the invention are explained below with reference to the drawings. They show: Fig. 1 a schematic, perspective view of an operator with a brush cutter, Fig. 2 a perspective view of a first handle of the brush cutter from Fig. 1 , Fig. 3 a side view of the outside of the handle Fig. 2 , Fig. 4 a section through the handle in the direction of the line IV-IV in Fig. 3 , Fig. 5 a side view in the direction of arrow V in Fig. 3 on the back of the handle, Fig. 6 a side view in the direction of arrow VI in Fig. 5 on the inside of the handle, Fig. 7 a partial sectional view along the line VII-VII in Fig. 6 , Fig. 8 a partial sectional view along the line VIII-VIII in Fig. 6 , Fig. 9a side view in the direction of arrow IX-IX in Fig. 3 on the front of the handle, Fig. 10 a perspective, schematic representation of the thumb support surface of the handle, Fig. 11 a schematic representation of the actuation path of the third operating element of the handle, Fig. 12 a perspective representation of the third operating element in the unactuated position, Fig. 13 a perspective representation of the third operating element in the actuated position, Figs. 14 to 18 schematic representations of possible different hand positions on the first handle, Fig. 19 a side view of a second handle, Fig. 20 a section through a ball support of the second handle along the line XX-XX in Fig. 19 , Fig. 21 and 22perspective views of the second handle, Fig. 23a side view of the back of the second handle in the direction of arrow XXIII in Fig. 19 , Fig. 24a side view in the direction of arrow XXIV in Fig. 23 on the outside of the handle, Fig. 25 a partial sectional view through the thumb rest area along the line XXV-XXV in Fig. 19 , Fig. 26a side view of a handlebar grip of a brush cutter with two handles, Fig. 27a section along the line XXVII-XXVII in Fig. 26 through the second, left handle, Fig. 28 a section along the line XXVIII-XXVIII in Fig. 26 through the first, right handle.

[0025] Fig. 1 schematically shows a user 51 carrying a hand-held tool, namely a brush cutter 1. The brush cutter 1 has a guide tube 2. A tool unit 3, in the exemplary embodiment a tool head with a cutting blade 70, is arranged at one end 42 of the guide tube 2. A housing 4 is arranged at the other end 73 of the guide tube. In the exemplary embodiment, a schematically illustrated drive motor 26 is arranged in the housing 4. The drive motor 26 can be, for example, an electric motor, in particular an electric motor powered by a rechargeable battery, or an internal combustion engine.

[0026] The operator 51 carries the brush cutter 1 with a carrying strap 74. The weight of the brush cutter 1 during operation is at least partially, in particular largely, absorbed by the carrying strap 74. The carrying strap 74 holds the brush cutter 1 at a suspension point A. The brush cutter 1 is advantageously suspended from the carrying strap 74 such that the brush cutter 1 hangs freely from the carrying strap 74 in a working position, i.e., a position in which the tool unit 3 is arranged lower than the housing 4. In Fig. 1 The center of gravity S of the brush cutter 1 and the weight force F are shown schematically. The center of gravity S of the brush cutter 1 is advantageously shifted toward the tool unit 3 relative to the suspension point A. As a result, the brush cutter 1 hangs on the carrying strap 74 such that the tool unit 3 is positioned further down than the housing 4 of the brush cutter 1.

[0027] To guide the brush cutter 1, a handlebar grip 5 is fixed to the guide tube 2. During operation, the forces for advancing the tool are transmitted via the handlebar grip 5. The advancing movement can, for example, be a back-and-forth movement during mowing or an up-and-down, beating movement during chopping. The direction of movement during mowing is in Fig. 1 schematically marked with the double arrow M and the direction of movement during chopping operation with the double arrow H.

[0028] The handlebar grip 5 is a so-called bicycle handlebar. The handlebar grip 5 comprises a handlebar stem 43. The handlebar stem 43 preferably extends approximately transversely to the guide tube 2. A handlebar 6 and 7, respectively, are arranged at each end of the handlebar stem 43. The handlebars 6 and 7 have inner sides 29 that face one another. The handlebars 6 and 7 have outer sides 28 facing away from one another. The outer sides 28 of the handlebars 6 and 7 rest against the palm 52 of the user 51. The inner sides 29 are thus the sides of the handlebars 6 and 7 that are closest to one another, and the outer sides 28 are the sides of the handlebars 6 and 7 that are far from one another.

[0029] The Fig. 2 bis 18 show the first handle 6, in the example the right handle. Fig. 19 bis 25 show the second handle 7, which in the exemplary embodiment forms the left handle of the brush cutter 1. The handles 6 and 7 can also be used with other hand-held tools, in particular blowers, sprayers, or the like.

[0030] How Fig. 2 shows, the first handle 6 has a shaft 8. The shaft 8 has a fastening end 9 and a free end 10. In the usual working position on a brush cutter 2, the free end 10 points forward and upward. At the fastening end 9, in the exemplary embodiment, a receptacle 44 is formed, into which the handlebar 43 is inserted. The central axis of the receptacle 44 advantageously coincides with a longitudinal axis 14 of the handle 6. The shaft 8 of the handle 6 in the exemplary embodiment is constructed from two half-shells 71 and 72, which abut one another in a parting plane parallel to the longitudinal axis 40. The first handle 6 has a front side 27, which extends between the outer side 28 and the inner side 29. The front side 27 is intended to rest on the fingers of a hand of the user 51. In addition, the handle 2 has a rear side 30, which in Fig. 5 and which is arranged opposite the front side 27. In the usual working position, the rear side 30 of a brush cutter faces the operator, and the front side 27 points towards the tool unit 3.

[0031] To fix the handle 6 to the handlebar 43, a fastening screw (not shown) is advantageously provided, which projects through a fastening opening 59 in the handle 6. The fastening screw also advantageously projects through openings in the handlebar 43 and thereby determines the position of the handle 6 relative to the handlebar 43. Fig. 2 A receptacle 60 for a fastening nut is shown. As Fig. 3 shows, the opposite outer side 28 has a receptacle 61 for a fastening screw which is to be screwed into the fastening nut on the opposite side of the handle 6.

[0032] How Fig. 2 As also shown, a support surface 15 for a hand of the user 51 is formed at the free end 10 of the handle 6. The support surface 15 is rounded and its size is adapted to the palm of a user. As Fig. 2 also shows, the first handle 6 has a first operating element 11 and a third operating element 13.

[0033] A second operating element 12, which is also arranged on the first handle 6, is in Fig. 3 shown. The shaft 8 forms an elongated base body of the first handle 6, on which the operating elements 11, 12 and 13 are mounted. The first operating element 11 is advantageously designed to control the drive motor 26. With the first operating element 11, in particular, the speed of the drive motor 26 and thus the speed of the tool can be adjusted. The second operating element 12 can advantageously prevent the control of the drive motor 26 via the first operating element in the unactuated position, for example by blocking the first operating element 11. The third operating element can be a stop switch, for example. However, another function of the operating elements 11, 12 and 13 can also be advantageous.

[0034] The first control element 11 protrudes, as Fig. 3 shows, on the front 27 with an actuating section 23 from the shaft 8. The actuating section 23 is the entire section of the first operating element 11 that protrudes from the shaft 8 when the first operating element 11 is in the unactuated position. The first operating element 11 is pivotally mounted about a first pivot axis 21. The first pivot axis 21 is closer to the free end 10 of the handle 6 than the actuating section 23. The actuating section 23 of the first actuating element 11 has a first end 24 and a second end 25. The first end 24 is closer to the fastening end 9 than the second end 25. The pivot axis 21 is closer to the second end 25 of the actuating section 23 than to the first end 24. The pivot axis 21 is closer to the free end 10 in the direction of the longitudinal axis 14 than the second end 25 of the actuating section 23. The actuating section 23 of the first actuating element 11 has a length b measured in the direction of the longitudinal axis 14.

[0035] The second operating element 12 has an actuating section 16 that protrudes from the shaft 8. The actuating section 16 is the entire section of the second operating element 12 that protrudes from the shaft 8 when the second operating element 12 is in the unactuated position. The actuating section 16 has a length c measured in the direction of the longitudinal axis 14. The lengths b and c can be approximately equal. In the exemplary embodiment, the length b is smaller than the length c.

[0036] The actuating section 16 of the second operating element 12 has a first end 17 and a second end 18. The first end 17 is closer to the fastening end 9 than the second end 18. Both actuating sections 16 and 23 are aligned in the direction of the longitudinal axis 14. The second actuating element 12 is pivotally mounted about a pivot axis 22. The pivot axis 22 is closer to the first end 17 than to the second end 18 of the actuating section 16. In the exemplary embodiment, the first end 17 is at a greater distance from the fastening end 9 in the direction of the longitudinal axis 14 than the pivot axis 22. In the exemplary embodiment, the pivot axis 22 lies between the first end 17 and the fastening end 9 in the direction of the longitudinal axis 14.

[0037] The actuating sections 23 and 16 overlap in a longitudinal section 19 when the operating elements 11 and 12 are in the unactuated position. The longitudinal section 19, in which both the actuating section 23 and the actuating section 16 extend, has a length a measured in the direction of the longitudinal axis. The length a is advantageously at least 30% of the length b of the actuating section 23 of the first operating element 11. Preferably, the length a is at least 50% of the length b.

[0038] The shaft 8 of the first handle 6 has a handle portion 45. The handle portion 45 has an elongated, roughly cylindrical shape. A thickened portion 46 adjoins the handle portion 45 toward the fastening end 9. A thickened portion 47 adjoins the handle portion 45 toward the free end 10. The length t of the handle portion 45, measured along the longitudinal axis 14, is advantageously one-quarter to three-quarters of the total length u of the handle 6. The total length u is measured parallel to the longitudinal axis 14.

[0039] The handle 6 has a first half 48 which extends from the fastening end 9 over half the length u. The handle 6 also has a second half 49 which adjoins the first half 48 and projects to the free end 10. The second half 49 extends over half the length u. The handle section 45 is at least partially arranged in the first half 48. In the exemplary embodiment, the handle section 45 extends over at least 60% of its length t in the first half 48. The handle section 45 also projects into the second half 49. The overlap region 19 is arranged completely in the second half 49 in the exemplary embodiment. It can also be provided that the overlap region 19 extends partially into the first half 48.

[0040] The support surface 15 merges into the rear side 30 via a curve 32. The curve 32 is convex and is rounded in the exemplary embodiment. The radius r of the curve 32 is 28 in side view on the outer side, which in Fig. 3 shown, at least 1.5 cm at any point, in particular at least 2 cm. A radius r of at least 3 cm is considered particularly advantageous. The radius r can vary over the course of the curve 32. The curve 32 achieves a smooth transition from the rear side 30 to the support surface 15. The hand of the user 51 can easily glide along the curve 32. Due to the rounded shape of the curve 32, an approximately constant distance to the opposite, first control element 11 can be maintained. This can ensure that the user 51 can grip the control element 11 in any intended hand position.

[0041] The shaft 8 has a ball rest 33. The ball rest 3 is advantageously arranged on the handle section 45. As Fig. 3 As shown, the ball support 33 has a length k measured parallel to the longitudinal axis 14. The length k is advantageously at least 2.5 cm, in particular at least 3.5 cm. In the exemplary embodiment, the ball support 33 extends close to the thickened section 46.

[0042] Fig. 4 shows a section through the handle 6 in the area of ​​the ball support 33. The section runs perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 14. The ball support 33 is formed as an outwardly projecting elevation from the otherwise advantageously approximately round cross-section of the handle section 45. The ball support 33 extends in the exemplary embodiment on the inner side 29 and the rear side 30. The ball support 33 has its greatest radial extent approximately in the area in which the inner side 29 and the rear side 30 adjoin one another. The ball support 33 has a ball support surface 36 which is approximately flat. The ball support surface 36 advantageously runs on the rear side 30. The ball support 33 has a maximum distance o from the longitudinal axis 14. The section in Fig. 4 runs in the area in which the ball support 33 has the maximum distance o from the longitudinal axis 14. In the same sectional plane in which the maximum distance o exists, the handle 6 has a diameter p measured perpendicular to the maximum distance o. The maximum distance o is advantageously greater than half the diameter p. The maximum distance o is advantageously at least 0.7 times, in particular at least 0.8 times, the diameter p of the shaft 8.

[0043] How Fig. 4 also shows, the pivot axes 21 and 22 of the operating elements 11 and 12 are perpendicular to one another. The pivot axes 21 and 22 enclose an angle α which is advantageously less than 180°. The angle α is in particular less than 120°, preferably approximately 90°. In the exemplary embodiment, the pivot axes 21 and 22 span a coordinate system with the longitudinal axis 14. The longitudinal axis 14 defines the y-direction of the coordinate system. The y-axis points from the fastening end 9 to the free end 10. The pivot axis 21 of the first operating element 11 corresponds to the z-axis and the pivot axis 22 of the second operating element 12 corresponds to the x-axis. The x-axis is directed from the rear side 30 to the front side 27. The z-axis is directed from the inner side 29 to the outer side 28. The x, y and z axes form a clockwise rotation system. The ball support 33 extends in the negative z-direction and negative x-direction.The bale support surface 36 is inclined to the z-direction by an angle δ, which is advantageously less than 45° at any point, in particular less than 30°. At the point where the maximum distance o from the longitudinal axis 14 exists, the bale support surface 36 has a distance v measured in the z-direction, which advantageously corresponds to at least 0.3 times the diameter p.

[0044] As the Fig. 5 und 6 As shown, the first handle 6 has a thumb surface 20. The thumb support surface 20 extends on the inner side 29 in the thickened section 47.

[0045] The thumb support surface 20 has a width g measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 14. The thumb support surface 20 is at a distance i from the free end 10, measured in the direction of the longitudinal axis 14. For the first handle 6, the distance i can be very small. The thumb support surface 20 can extend almost to the free end 10.

[0046] How Fig. 5 shows, in the side view shown in the direction of the x-axis on the rear side 30, the third control element 13 is largely or completely concealed. In this viewing direction, the third control element 13 is located at least partially behind the thumb rest area 20. The third control element 13 is covered by a cover 68. As the Fig. 5 und 6 show, the third operating element 13 has a side 62 facing the fastening end 9 ( Fig. 6 ). In the exemplary embodiment, the third operating element 13 is aligned approximately parallel to the thumb rest surface 20. The side 62 runs inclined to the longitudinal axis 14. Near the side 62, a recess 64 is formed on the handle 6, which facilitates the actuation of the third operating element 13 on the side 62. Opposite the recess 64, the third operating element 13 has a projection 63 on the side 62. The projection 63 is advantageously at least 1 mm, in particular at least 2 mm. This enables safe actuation of the operating element 13 on the side 62 even when wearing gloves. As Fig. 5 also shows, the second operating element 12 has a distance e from the free end 10 measured parallel to the longitudinal axis 14.

[0047] In the Fig. 6 bis 8 The orientation of the thumb rest surface 20 is shown. How Fig. 6 As shown, the thumb support surface 20 is inclined at an angle β to the longitudinal axis 14 when viewed towards the inner side 29, i.e. when viewed in the direction of the z-axis. The angle β is at least 20° and at most 70° at any point on the thumb support surface 20. This achieves an ergonomic hand position. On the other hand, the orientation of the thumb support surface 20 ensures a very good introduction of forces to the tool unit 3 ( Fig. 1 ), so that particularly favorable force ratios are achieved for pushing and pressing the tool.

[0048] In the Fig. 6 In the side view shown, the thumb support surface 20 is preferably convexly curved. However, a flat or concavely curved design can also be advantageous. The thumb support surface 20 lies between two parallel planes 34 and 35. The planes 34 and 35 are advantageously inclined to the plane of the page. The planes 34 and 35 do not run parallel to any of the axes x, y, and z of the coordinate system of the handle 6. The planes 34 and 35 are therefore in Fig. 6 shown schematically. The thumb support surface 20 is advantageously designed such that the distance h between the two planes 34 and 35 is less than 3 mm, in particular less than 2 mm. The width g of the thumb support surface 20 is advantageously at least 8 mm. The length f of the thumb support surface 20, which in Fig. 6 is drawn, is advantageously at least 2.5 cm. A length f of at least 3 cm, in particular at least 4 cm, is preferably provided. The length f and the width g are measured in an area lying between the planes 34 and 35. Surface sections lying outside the planes 34 and 35 and adjacent to the thumb support surface 20 are not considered to be part of the thumb support surface 20 in the present case. The thumb support surface 20 advantageously has a curvature whose radius w is at least 10 mm, in particular at least 15 mm, advantageously at least 30 mm at every point. In the exemplary embodiment, the radius of the curvature is at least 40 mm at every point. A flat design of the thumb support surface 20, i.e. an infinite radius, can also be advantageous. The thumb support surface 20 merges into the inner side 29 of the handle 6 with a curvature 31. The curvature 31 is concave.

[0049] As the Fig. 7 und 8 show, the thumb support surface 20 slopes downwards in a direction from the longitudinal axis 14. However, even a slight rise of the thumb support surface in this direction can be advantageous. In a sectional plane that runs parallel to the longitudinal axis 14 and through the inner side 29, i.e. a sectional plane in the yz-plane, the thumb support surface 20 forms an angle γ with the longitudinal axis 14, which angle opens towards the fastening end 9. The angle γ is advantageously 30° to 110°. Particularly preferably, the angle γ is 45° to 90°. The angle γ is preferably less than 90°. In Fig. 8 The projection 63 of the third control element 13 over the recess 64 is also clearly visible. Fig. 7 und 8 also show the design of the concave curvature 31. The curvature 31 has a radius s that can be comparatively small, namely less than 2 cm, in particular less than 1 cm. The radius s does not have to be the same size throughout, but can vary, such as Fig. 7 und 8 show.

[0050] How Fig. 9 shows, the actuating section 23 of the first operating element 11 is at a distance d from the free end 10. The actuating section 16 of the second operating element 12 is at a distance d from the free end 10 Fig. 5 The distance e shown in the drawing is greater than the distance d in the illustrated embodiment. The distances d and e are advantageously each less than 7 cm. This allows the operating elements 11 and 12 to be actuated by a user 51 even when the hand of the user 51 is resting on the support surface 15.

[0051] Also in Fig. 10 the design of the thumb support surface 20, the curvature 31 and the adjacent inner side 29 is shown.

[0052] The second operating element 13 is arranged in such a way that unintentional actuation of the second operating element 13 is avoided, even if the operator places his hand on the support surface 15 at the free end 10 of the shaft 8. As Fig. 11 schematically shows, the second operating element 13 can, for example, actuate a schematically shown switch 65. Actuation of a mechanical element can also be provided. The switch 13 has a Fig. 11 schematically illustrated unactuated position 39 and an actuated position 41 in which the switch 65 is fully actuated. Between these positions, the actuating element 13 can initially travel an idle stroke 66. Within the idle stroke 66, the switch 65 is not actuated. The idle stroke 66 is followed by an actuating stroke 67 in which the switch 65 is pressed. The position of the third operating element 13 in which the operating element 13 has completed the idle stroke 66 and begins to execute the actuating stroke 67 is referred to herein as the actuating position 40. In order to prevent unintentional actuation of the switch 65, the actuating position 40 at which the actuating stroke 67 begins is crucial. Actuating the third operating element 30 within the idle stroke 66 is irrelevant for the function of the brush cutter 1.

[0053] Fig. 12 shows the third operating element 13 in the unactuated position 39. In the exemplary embodiment, the second operating element 13 is concealed by the cover 68 in the direction of the thumb support surface 20 and the free end 10. The cover 68 is at least large enough that the third operating element 13, in the actuated position 40, protrudes by a maximum of 1 mm beyond the outer contour of the handle 6, 7, i.e., beyond the cover 68, when viewed in the direction of the longitudinal axis 14 toward the fastening end 9.

[0054] Fig. 13 shows the third operating element 13 in the actuated position 41. In the exemplary embodiment, the operating element 13 is pressed deeper into the shaft 8 than the recess 64, so that the recess 64 protrudes beyond the operating element 13 on the side 62. However, it can also be provided that the third operating element 13 is flush with the bottom of the recess 64 or protrudes beyond it. Adjusting the third operating element 13 from the position shown in Fig. 12 shown inactive position 39 into the position shown in Fig. 13 The actuated position 41 shown is advantageously only possible when the operator actively presses the control element 13 due to the cover 68. Unintentional actuation is prevented by the cover 68.

[0055] The Fig. 14 bis 18 show different possible gripping positions for handle 6. Fig. 14 shows the handle 6 schematically with the hand 53 of a user 51 ( Fig. 1 ). The hand 53 of the user 51 encloses the handle section 45. The ball of the hand rests on the ball support 33. The palm 52 ( Fig. 15 ) rests on the second control element 12 and actuates it. The index finger 55 rests on the first control element 11 and can actuate it. The middle finger 56, the ring finger 57, and the little finger 58 enclose the grip section 45. Two possible positions for the thumb 54 are provided for this hand position. Fig. 15 shows an arrangement in which the thumb 54 rests on the thumb support surface 20 and is supported on it. Fig. 16 In the position shown, the thumb 55 lies below the thickened section 47. The thumb 54 can enclose the handle section 54 in this position. As Fig. 15 shows, the thumb 54 can also actuate the third control element 13. In this case, the thumb 54 lies below the thickening 68 ( Fig. 12 und 13 ).

[0056] As the views in Fig. 15 und 16 in the direction of the longitudinal axis 14 towards the fastening end 9, the third operating element 13 is completely concealed by the cover 68 in this viewing direction. The third operating element 13 is not visible in this view. The thumb support surface 20 is advantageously designed to be comparatively large. In the viewing direction in the direction of the longitudinal axis 14 towards the fastening end 9, the area of ​​the thumb support surface 20 is advantageously at least 10%, in particular at least 20%, preferably at least 25% of the total visible area of ​​the thickened section 47 of the first handle 6. Advantageously, the area of ​​the thumb support surface 20 in the viewing direction in the direction of the longitudinal axis 14 towards the fastening end 9 is less than 70%, in particular less than 50%, in particular less than 30% of the total visible area of ​​the thickened section 47 of the first handle 6.

[0057] In Fig. 15 The second operating element 12 is shown in the actuated position. In this position, the second operating element 12 advantageously protrudes only slightly or not at all beyond the outer contour of the shaft 8. In the exemplary embodiment, the second operating element 12, in the actuated position, protrudes beyond the outer contour of the shaft 8 by a projection j that amounts to a maximum of 3 mm, in particular a maximum of 2 mm. The projection j is advantageously not more than 3 mm, in particular more than 2 mm, at any point on the second operating element 12.

[0058] Fig. 17 shows a hand position in which the hand 53 is partially supported on the support surface 15, advantageously with the inside of the index finger 55. The middle finger 56 encloses the thickened portion 47. The ring finger 57 and the little finger 58 rest on the first control element 11 and can actuate it. The palm 52 of the user 51 is arranged on the second control element 12 and can actuate the second control element 12.

[0059] In Fig. 18 A hand position is shown in which the palm 52 of the hand 53 rests on the support surface 15. The second operating element 12 can be grasped with the little finger 58. The operation of the first operating element 11 is intended for the middle finger 56. Operation with the index finger 55 or the ring finger 57 may also be preferred by the user 51. Due to the distances d and e of the operating elements 11 and 12 of less than 7 cm to the free end 10 ( Figuren 5 and 9) the operating elements 11 and 12 can also be operated in the Fig. 18 shown hand position is easily possible.

[0060] Due to the continuous curve 32, the user 51 can switch between different hand positions by sliding the hand 53 along the curve 32. This allows for ergonomic working even over longer periods of time.

[0061] The Fig. 19 bis 25 show the design of the second handle 7. The second handle 7 is advantageously a left-hand handle. In the exemplary embodiment, the second handle 7 has no operating elements. The second handle 7 can therefore be designed smaller overall than the first handle 6. The two handles 6 and 7 have a different shape. However, like the first handle 6, the second handle 7 also has a thumb support surface 20, a support surface 15 at the free end 10, and a ball support surface 33. The same reference numerals identify corresponding elements for both handles.

[0062] The second handle 7 also has a shaft 8, which has a fastening end 9 and a free end 10. A receptacle 44 (not shown) for the handlebar 43 is provided at the fastening end 9. The second handle 7 also has a longitudinal axis 14, which advantageously coincides with a y-axis. The y-axis is directed from the fastening end 9 to the free end 10. An x-axis runs from the rear side 30 to the front side 27. The z-axis has, as Fig. 20 shows, from the outside 28 to the inside 29. The axes form a right-hand rotation system.

[0063] How Fig. 19 shows, the thumb support surface 20 forms an angle β with the longitudinal axis 14. The angle β is also at least 20° and at most 70° for the second handle 7. In the exemplary embodiment, the angle β for the second handle 7 is slightly greater than the angle β for the first handle 6. Because no third operating element 13 needs to be arranged adjacent to the thumb support surface 20 on the second handle 7, the orientation of the thumb support surface 20 can be chosen more freely. The thumb support surface 20 of the second handle 7 lies between the planes 34 and 35, which advantageously have a distance h of less than 3 mm, in particular less than 2 mm. The thumb support surface 20 is slightly concavely curved in the exemplary embodiment. Convex sections adjoin the concave section. The curvature of the thumb support surface 20 has a radius w at every point which is at least 10 mm, in particular at least 15 mm.The smallest radius w of the second handle 7 is in particular smaller than the smallest radius w of the first handle 6. A flat design of the thumb support surface 20 can also be advantageous. The thumb support surface 20 has a distance e from the free end. In the exemplary embodiment, the distance e for the second handle 7 is at least 1 cm. The thumb support surface 20 has a length f of at least 2.5 cm, in particular at least 3 cm. The thumb support surface 20 has a width g, which is advantageously at least 8 mm, in particular at least 1 cm.

[0064] In Fig. 20 The design of the ball support 33 is shown in detail. The ball support 33 forms a ball support surface 36, which runs along the rear side 29 of the second handle 7. The ball support surface 36 is approximately flat and can be slightly concavely curved in a sectional plane parallel to the longitudinal axis 14. A convex curvature is also possible. The maximum distance o and its relationship to the diameter p correspond to those for the first handle 6. Fig. 20 As shown, the ball support surface 36 is inclined to the zy-plane in the illustrated sectional plane perpendicular to the y-axis by an angle δ. The angle δ of the ball support surface 36 of the second handle 7 can be greater than the angle δ for the first handle 6. The same angle δ can also be provided.

[0065] In Fig. 21 The width g and the length f of the thumb rest area 20 are clearly visible. Fig. 22 shows, the curvature 31, with which the support surface 20 merges into the inner side 29, is significantly larger than in the first handle 6. This is also shown in Fig. 23 und Fig. 25 recognizable. How Fig. 25 As shown, the radius s of the curvature 31 is advantageously greater than 2 mm, in particular greater than 5 mm. The thumb support surface 20 encloses, in a sectional plane 20 parallel to the longitudinal axis 14, the angle γ with the longitudinal axis 14, which corresponds to the angle γ described for the first handle 6.

[0066] How Fig. 24 shows, the ball support 36 is arranged in the first half 48 of the handle section 45. As Fig. 24 also shows, the ball support surface 36 has a length k measured in the direction of the longitudinal axis 14. As Fig. 24 As shown in Fig. 1, the ball support surface 36 has a length k measured in the direction of the longitudinal axis 14. The length k is advantageously at least 2.5 cm, in particular at least 3.5 cm. The second handle 7 has a Fig. 24 The length u of the second handle 7 is preferably smaller than the length u of the first handle 6.

[0067] Fig. 26 shows the design of the handlebar grip 5. On the handlebar 43, a fastening device 75 is shown, with which the handlebar 43 can be fixed to the guide tube 2. The fastening device 75 advantageously allows an adjustment of the position of the handlebar 43 in the longitudinal direction of the guide tube 2 and / or a pivoting of the handlebar 43 about the fastening device 75, in order to make the inclination of the handlebar 43 and the inclination of the handles 6 and 7 adjustable. Fig. 26 The thumb rest surfaces 22 of the two handles 6 and 7 are also shown. Fig. 26 The directions of movement M for mowing and H for chopping are also shown.

[0068] The Fig. 27 und 28 each show a section through the bale support 33 in the area in which the bale support 33 has the maximum distance o from the longitudinal axis 14.

[0069] How Fig. 27 As shown, the ball support surface 36 of the second handle 7 has a width m. The width m is advantageously at least 8 mm, in particular at least 1 cm. Across the width m and the length k, the ball support surface 36 lies between two mutually parallel planes 37 and 38. The two planes 37 and 38 are spaced apart by a distance n that is advantageously less than 3 mm. The length k and the width m are measured in the region of the ball support surface 36 that lies between the planes 37 and 38.

[0070] How Fig. 28 shows, the ball support surface 36 of the first handle 6 has a width m, which is advantageously at least 8 mm, in particular at least 1 cm. The ball support surface 36 lies between two parallel planes 37 and 38, the distance n of which is advantageously at most 3 mm. The length k ( Fig. 3 ) and the width m are measured in the area of ​​the bale support surface 36 which lies between the levels 37 and 38.

[0071] As the Fig. 27 und 28 also show, the ball support surfaces 36, in particular the ball support surface 36 of the first handle 6, have a radius q in the illustrated sectional plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 14, which radius is at least 10 mm, in particular at least 15 mm, at every point. The ball support surface 36 can be concave and / or convex in the illustrated sectional plane. A profile that is at least partially flat or a continuously flat profile can also be advantageous. Smaller radii can also be provided, in particular for the ball support surface 36 of the second handle 7. The radius q of the central, concave region is advantageously at least 10 mm, in particular at least 15 mm. The convex regions adjoining it in the circumferential direction can have radii that are smaller than 10 mm.

[0072] Due to the orientation of the ball support surface 36, a good force introduction in a force direction B is possible via the ball support surface 36. The force directions B of the two handles 6 and 7 can be inclined to each other, as the Fig. 27 und 28 The direction of force B advantageously runs transversely to the bale support surface 36. The direction of force B runs, in particular, perpendicular to the planes 37 and 38. The bale support surface 36 is advantageously oriented transversely, in particular perpendicular to the direction of the tool unit 3. As a result, forces can be effectively introduced via the bale support surface 36 in the direction of the tool unit 3.

[0073] By pressing on the bale support surface 36 of one handle 6, 7 and holding or pulling on the other handle 6, 7, a force in the direction of movement M for mowing can be easily and ergonomically applied. By pressing on the bale support surface 36, in particular pressing on the bale support surfaces 36 of both handles 6, 7, the tool unit 3 can be pushed downward, thereby easily and ergonomically applying a force in the direction of movement H for chopping.

[0074] The ball support 33 is designed as a raised portion extending on the inner side 29 and the rear side 30 of the shaft 8. The ball support 33 is arranged for both handles 6, 7 at least partially, in particular completely, in the first half 48 of the respective handle 6, 7. As shown in Fig. 20As shown for the second handle 7, the handle 7 has a rubber coating 69. Advantageously, each handle 6, 7 has a rubber coating at least in one section, in particular over the entire outer surface of the shaft 8. This improves the grip of the hand 52 of the user 51 on the handle 6, 7.

[0075] Further features of the second handle 7 correspond to the features of the first handle 6, to the description of which reference is made.

Claims

1. Handle (6, 7) for a hand-held implement, wherein the handle (6, 7) has a shaft (8), said shaft having a fastening end (9), at which the handle (6, 7) is fixed, and having a free end (10), wherein the handle (6, 7) has an outer side (28) which is at least partially intended for abutment against the palm (52) of a hand of a user (51), wherein the handle (6, 7) has an inner side (29) which is situated opposite the outer side (28), wherein the handle (6, 7) has a longitudinal axis (14), wherein the shaft (8) forms at its free end (10) a bearing surface (15) for a hand of a user, characterized in that, on the inner side (29) of the handle (6, 7), there is arranged a thumb bearing surface (20) which, in a side view perpendicular to the inner side (29), includes with the longitudinal axis (14) an angle (β) of at least 20° and at most 70° at every point.

2. Handle according to Claim 1, characterized in that the thumb bearing surface (20) is situated between two planes (34, 35) which are parallel to one another, the spacing (h) of said planes being less than 3 mm, and in that the thumb bearing surface (20) has a length (f) of at least 2.5 cm and a width (g) of at least 8 mm.

3. Handle according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the thumb bearing surface (20) has a spacing (i) of at least 1 cm to the free end (10) of the shaft (8).

4. Handle according to one of Claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the thumb bearing surface (20) transitions into the inner side (29) of the handle (6, 7) by way of a concave curvature (31).

5. Handle according to one of Claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, in a section plane parallel to the longitudinal axis (14) and through the inner side (29), the thumb bearing surface (20) includes with the longitudinal axis (14) an angle (γ) which opens towards the fastening end (9) and is 30° to 110°, in particular 45° to 90°.

6. Handle according to one of Claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the bearing surface (15) transitions via a continuous rounding (32) into a rear side (30), said rear side extending between the inner side (29) and the outer side (28) in a peripheral direction of the shaft (8).

7. Handle according to Claim 6, characterized in that, in a side view of the outer side (28), the rounding (32) has a radius (r) of at least 1.5 cm, in particular of at least 2 cm, at every point.

8. Handle according to one of Claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, on the shaft (8), a first operating element (11) is mounted so as to be pivotable about a first pivot axis (21), and a second operating element (12) is mounted so as to be pivotable about a second pivot axis (22), wherein the first operating element (11) is configured for activating the drive motor (26), and wherein the second operating element (12), in the non-actuated position, prevents activation of the drive motor (26) via the first operating element (11).

9. Handle according to Claim 8, characterized in that the longitudinal axis (14) is oriented perpendicularly to the first pivot axis (21) and perpendicularly to the second pivot axis (22), and in that, in a viewing direction in the direction of the longitudinal axis (14), the first pivot axis (21) and the second pivot axis (22) include an angle (α) of less than 180°, in particular of less than 120°, preferably of approximately 90°.

10. Handle according to Claim 8 or 9, characterized in that the second operating element (12) has an actuation portion (16) which protrudes from the shaft (8) in the non-actuated position, which actuation portion has a first end (17) and a second end (18), said first end being situated closer to the fastening end (9) and said second end being situated closer to the free end (10) of the shaft (8), and in that the second pivot axis (22) is positioned closer to the first end (17) of the actuation portion (16) than to the second end (18).

11. Handle according to Claim 10, characterized in that, in the actuated position of the second operating element (12), the actuation portion (16) of the second operating element (12) does not project beyond the outer contour of the shaft (8) by more than 3 mm at any point.

12. Handle according to one of Claims 8 to 11, characterized in that the first operating element (11) has an actuation portion (23) which protrudes from the shaft (8) in the non-actuated position, which actuation portion has a first end (24) and a second end (25), said first end being situated closer to the fastening end (9) and said second end being situated closer to the free end (10) of the shaft (8), and in that the first pivot axis (21) is positioned closer to the second end (25) of the actuation portion (23) than to the first end (24).

13. Handle according to one of Claims 8 to 12, characterized in that the actuation portion (16, 23) of at least one operating element (11, 12) has a spacing (d, e) of less than 7 cm to the free end (10) of the shaft (8).

14. Handle according to one of Claims 8 to 13, characterized in that the actuation portion (16) of the first operating element (11) and the actuation portion (23) of the second operating element (12) overlap over a length portion (19) of the shaft (8), the length (a) of which length portion, as measured in the direction of the longitudinal axis (14), is at least 30%, in particular at least 50%, of the length (b) of the actuation portion (23) of the first operating element (11), as measured in the same direction.

15. Handle according to one of Claims 8 to 14, characterized in that the first operating element (11) is arranged on a front side (27), said front side extending between the inner side (29) and the outer side (28) in a peripheral direction of the shaft (8) and intended for abutment against the fingers of a user, and the second operating element (12) is arranged on the outer side (28).

16. Handle according to one of Claims 1 to 15, characterized in that the handle (6) has a third operating element (13), wherein the third operating element (13) is arranged on the inner side (29), wherein the third operating element (13) has an actuation position (40), in which the third operating element (13), during a movement from a non-actuated position (39) to its actuated position (41), starts to perform an actuation stroke (67), and wherein, in the actuation position (40), the third operating element (13), in a viewing direction of the fastening end (9) in the direction of the longitudinal axis (14), projects at most 1 mm beyond the outer contour of the handle (6, 7), in particular is situated behind the outer contour of the handle (6, 7).

17. Handle according to Claim 16, characterized in that, in the non-actuated position, the third operating element (13) projects beyond the contour of the shaft (8) at at least one side, in particular at its side that is directed towards the fastening end (9).

18. Handle according to one of Claims 1 to 17, characterized in that the shaft (8) of the handle (6) has a grip portion (45) with an elongate, roughly cylindrical shape, and in that a thickened portion (46) adjoins the grip portion (45) in the direction of the fastening end (9).

19. Brushcutter having a guide tube (2), wherein a tool unit (3) is arranged on one end (42) of the guide tube (2), wherein a handle bar (43) carrying on each end a handle (6, 7) according to one of Claims 1 to 18 is fixed on the guide tube (2), wherein each handle (6, 7) is fixed on the handle bar (43) at the fastening end (9) of the shaft (8), wherein each handle (6, 7) has a front side (27), which is directed towards the tool unit (3), and an oppositely situated rear side (30), wherein the inner sides (29) of the handles (6, 7) are directed towards one another, and wherein the outer sides (28) of the handles (6, 7) are directed away from one another.