Electric work machine

Abstract

To provide an electric work machine which enables multiple functions to be selectively performed based on easy operation to a user interface while suppressing complication of the configuration of the user interface.SOLUTION: An electric work machine includes a motor, a first operation unit, a second operation unit, and a control circuit. The control circuit rotates the motor in a first control method, based on a situation where the first operation unit is driven and operated and the second operation unit is moved to a first region. The control circuit stops the motor, based on a situation where the first operation unit is not driven and operated and / or the second operation unit is moved to a second region. The control circuit rotates the motor in a second control method, based on a situation where the first operation unit is driven and operated and the second operation unit is moved to a third region.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a technique for controlling a motor in a power working machine.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a lawn mower including a trigger switch and an operation input unit. The trigger switch and the operation input unit are user interfaces manually operated by a user of the lawn mower. The operation input unit includes a main power switch, a reverse switch, and the like. By operating the operation input unit, the user can switch the rotation direction of the motor or switch the rotation speed of the motor.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] As the lawn mower becomes more highly functional, the configuration of the operation input unit may become complicated, or complicated input operations may be required to perform desired functions. Such a possibility can also occur in various power working machines other than lawn mowers.

[0005] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a power working machine capable of selectively executing a plurality of functions based on easy operation of a user interface while suppressing complication of the configuration of the user interface.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a power working machine including a motor, a first operation unit, a second operation unit, and a control circuit. The first operation unit is manually driven and operated. The second operation unit is manually moved within a movement range including a first region, a second region, and a third region. The control circuit rotates the motor in a first control method based on the fact that the first operation unit is being driven and operated and the second operation unit is moved to the first region. The control circuit stops the motor based on the fact that the first operation unit is not being driven and operated and / or the second operation unit is moved to the second region. The control circuit rotates the motor in a second control method based on the fact that the first operation unit is being driven and operated and the second operation unit is moved to the third region. The second control method is different from the first control method.

[0007] In the power working machine configured as described above, the first and second operation units are provided as user interfaces. Then, whether to rotate the motor in the first control method, rotate the motor in the second control method, or stop the motor can be switched by manually changing the position of the second operation unit. Therefore, while suppressing the complication of the configuration of the user interface, a plurality of functions can be selectively executed based on easy operation of the user interface.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0008]

Figure 1

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Figure 12

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] [1. Summary of Embodiment] Some embodiments may provide a power-operated work machine having at least any one of the following features 1 to 8. · Feature 1: Motor. · Feature 2: A first operation unit configured to be manually driven and operated. · Feature 3: A second operation unit configured to be manually moved within a moving range. · Feature 4: The moving range includes a first area, a second area, and a third area. · Feature 5: Control circuit. · Feature 6: Based on the first operation unit being driven and operated and the second operation unit being moved to the first area, the control circuit rotates the motor in a first control method. · Feature 7: Based on the first operation unit not being driven and operated and / or the second operation unit being moved to the second area, the control circuit stops the motor. · Feature 8: Based on the first operation unit being driven and operated and the second operation unit being moved to the third area, the control circuit rotates the motor in a second control method different from the first control method.

[0010] The power-operated work machine having at least features 1 to 8 can selectively execute a plurality of functions based on easy operation of the user interface while suppressing complication of the configuration of the user interface.

[0011] In one embodiment, in addition to, or instead of, at least any one of the above-described features 1 to 8, the following feature 9 may be provided. · Feature 9: The second region is arranged so as to pass through the second region when the second operation unit is moved between the first region and the third region. The power working machine having at least features 1 to 9 can easily stop the motor regardless of whether the motor is rotated by the first control method or the second control method.

[0012] In one embodiment, in addition to, or instead of, at least any one of the above-described features 1 to 9, the following feature 10 may be provided. · Feature 10: The control circuit is configured to stop the motor when the second operation unit is moved directly from the first region to the third region or via the second region. The power working machine having at least features 1 to 8, 10, or the power working machine having at least features 1 to 10 can suppress a sudden change in the control method.

[0013] In particular, in the power working machine having feature 9, when the user moves the second operation unit from the first region to the second region to stop the motor, there is a possibility that the user may accidentally pass through the second region and enter the third region. If such an incorrect operation is performed and the motor is immediately rotated by the second control method, the user experience may be impaired. Similarly, when moving the second operation unit from the third region to the second region, there is a possibility of accidentally passing through the second region and entering the first region. If such an incorrect operation is performed and the motor is immediately rotated by the first control method, the user experience may be impaired.

[0014] On the other hand, in the power working machine having at least features 1 to 10, when the above incorrect operation is performed, the motor is temporarily stopped, so that the impairment of the user experience is suppressed.

[0015] One embodiment may include, in addition to, or instead of, at least any one of the above-described features 1 to 10, the following feature 11, or the following features 11 and 12. · Feature 11: The control circuit is configured to rotate the motor in the second control method when the first operation unit is specifically operated after stopping the motor in response to the second operation unit being moved from the first area to the third area. · Feature 12: The specific operation includes releasing the drive operation on the first operation unit and then driving the first operation unit again.

[0016] The electric working machine having at least features 1 to 8, 10, and 11 can rotate the motor in the second control method of the moving destination by performing a specific operation even if the motor is once stopped by moving from the first area to the third area.

[0017] One embodiment may include, in addition to, or instead of, at least any one of the above-described features 1 to 12, the following feature 13. · Feature 13: The control circuit is configured to stop the motor when the second operation unit is moved from the third area to the first area directly or via the second area.

[0018] The electric working machine having at least features 1 to 8 and 13 can suppress a sudden change in the control method. One embodiment may include, in addition to, or instead of, at least any one of the above-described features 1 to 13, the following feature 14, or the following features 14 and 15. · Feature 14: The control circuit is configured to rotate the motor in the first control method when the first operation unit is specifically operated after stopping the motor in response to the second operation unit being moved from the third area to the first area.

[0019] The specific operation in Feature 14 may be the same as or different from the specific operation in Feature 11 and / or Feature 12. The power working machine having at least features 1 to 8, 13, and 14 can rotate the motor in the first control method by performing a specific operation even if the motor is once stopped by moving from the third region to the first region.

[0020] A certain embodiment may include, in addition to, or instead of, at least any one of the above-described features 1 to 14, at least any one of the following features 15 to 16. · Feature 15: The first control method includes setting a target rotation speed according to the position of the second operation unit in the first region. · Feature 16: The first control method includes rotating the motor at the set target rotation speed.

[0021] The target rotation speed in Feature 16 may be the target rotation speed set in Feature 15. A certain embodiment may include, in addition to, or instead of, at least any one of the above-described features 1 to 16, the following Feature 17. · Feature 17: The first control method includes setting a target rotation speed so as to increase as the second operation unit moves away from the second region in the first region.

[0022] The power working machine having at least features 1 to 9, 16, and 17 can improve the usability of the second operation unit for adjusting the target rotation speed. A certain embodiment may include, in addition to, or instead of, at least any one of the above-described features 1 to 17, the following Feature 18 and / or Feature 19. · Feature 18: The second control method includes setting a target rotation speed according to the magnitude of the load received by the motor when the motor is rotating. · Feature 19: The second control method includes rotating the motor at the set target rotation speed.

[0023] The target rotation speed in Feature 19 may be the target rotation speed set in Feature 18. In addition to, or instead of, at least any one of Features 1 to 19 described above, a certain embodiment may further include Features 20 and / or 21 below. · Feature 20: The second control method includes setting the target rotation speed to a first speed when the magnitude of the load is less than a threshold value. · Feature 21: The second control method includes setting the target rotation speed to a second speed greater than the first speed when the magnitude of the load is greater than or equal to the threshold value.

[0024] The threshold value in Feature 21 may be the same as the threshold value in Feature 20. In addition to, or instead of, Feature 21 described above, a certain embodiment may further include Feature 22 below. · Feature 22: The second control method includes setting the target rotation speed to a second speed less than the first speed when the magnitude of the load is greater than or equal to the threshold value.

[0025] The threshold value in Feature 22 may be the same as the threshold value in Feature 20. In addition to, or instead of, at least any one of Features 1 to 22 described above, a certain embodiment may further include Feature 23 below. · Feature 23: A click feeling generation unit configured to generate a click feeling on the second operation unit in response to the second operation unit moving within the movement range reaching a predetermined position within the movement range.

[0026] When a certain embodiment includes Feature 23 described above, that embodiment may further include at least any one of Features 24 to 25 below. · Feature 24: The click feeling generation unit is configured to generate a click feeling on the second operation unit when the second operation unit moves from a region different from the third region to the third region. · Feature 25: The click feeling generating part is configured to generate a click feeling on the second operation part when the second operation part moves from the third area to an area different from the third area.

[0027] In the electric working machine having at least one of Features 24 to 25, when the user moves the second operation part, the user can appropriately recognize the change in the area where the second operation part exists by the click feeling.

[0028] An embodiment may include, in addition to, or instead of, at least any one of the above-described Features 1 to 25, the following Feature 26, or Features 26 and 27. · Feature 26: The first operation part includes a trigger. · Feature 27: The drive operation includes the trigger being moved from the initial position by a certain length or more.

[0029] An embodiment may include, in addition to, or instead of, at least any one of the above-described Features 1 to 27, the following Feature 28. · Feature 28: The second operation part includes a lever configured to be movable along an arc-shaped movement path at the tip. An embodiment may include, in addition to, or instead of, at least any one of the above-described Features 1 to 28, the following Feature 29, or Features 29 and 30. · Feature 29: A grip configured to be held by one hand of the user of the electric working machine. · Feature 30: The first operation part and the second operation part are arranged to be simultaneously operable by the one hand holding the grip in the vicinity of the grip or on the grip.

[0030] In the electric working machine having at least Features 1 to 8, 29, and 30, the user can easily adjust the rotation of the motor with one hand. Examples of the electric working machine include various on-site electrical devices used at work sites such as DIY, manufacturing, gardening, and construction, and configured to be driven by a battery. Specifically, they include electric tools for masonry, metalworking, and woodworking, gardening machines, and more specifically, electric grass cutters (or electric lawn mowers), electric lawn trimmers, electric lawn clippers, electric hedge trimmers, electric hammers, electric hammer drills, electric drills, electric drivers, electric wrenches, electric grinders, electric circular saws, electric reciprocating saws, electric jigsaws, electric cutters, electric chain saws, electric blowers, electric cleaners, electric sprayers, electric spreaders, electric dust collectors, battery-powered push carts, battery-powered bicycles, and fan vests.

[0031] In one embodiment, the control circuit may be integrated into a single electronic unit or a single electronic device or a single circuit board. In one embodiment, the control circuit may be a combination of two or more electronic circuits or two or more electronic units or two or more electronic devices individually provided within the electric working machine.

[0032] In one embodiment, the control circuit may include a microcomputer (or a microcontroller or a microprocessor), wiring logic, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), an application-specific standard product (ASSP), a programmable logic device (such as a field-programmable gate array (FPGA)), discrete electronic components, and / or a combination thereof.

[0033] Examples of the motor include a brushless motor (or a brushless DC motor), a brushed DC motor, an AC motor, and a stepper motor. In one embodiment, any combination of the above features 1 to 30 may be used.

[0034] In one embodiment, any one of the above features 1 to 30 may be excluded. [2. Specific exemplary embodiments] Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described.

[0035] [2-1. Embodiment] (2-1-1) Outline of the Electric Working Machine The electric working machine 1 of the present embodiment shown in FIG. 1 is in the form of a lawn mower. The electric working machine 1 includes a main pipe 2. The main pipe 2 has a long and hollow rod-like shape.

[0036] The electric working machine 1 includes a control unit 3. The control unit 3 is provided at the rear end of the main pipe 2. The control unit 3 is in the form of a hollow housing. The control unit 3 includes a battery mounting portion at its rear end. A battery pack 100 is detachably mounted on the battery mounting portion. The control unit 3 houses a controller 40 and a motor 60 (see FIG. 7) described later.

[0037] The battery pack 100 includes a battery 100a (see FIG. 7). The battery 100a can supply electric power (hereinafter referred to as "battery power") to each part in the control unit 3. The battery 100a may be in the form of, for example, a rechargeable secondary battery.

[0038] The electric working machine 1 includes a drive unit 4. The drive unit 4 is provided at the front end of the main pipe 2. The drive unit 4 houses a gear mechanism. The main pipe 2 houses a driving force transmission shaft (not shown). The driving force transmission shaft is connected to the motor 60 and the gear mechanism, and transmits the rotational force of the motor 60 (specifically, the rotor of the motor 60) to the gear mechanism.

[0039] The gear mechanism includes an output shaft (not shown). A cutting blade 5 is detachably mounted on the output shaft. The cutting blade 5 is used to cut a cutting target. The cutting target includes, for example, grass and small-diameter trees. The cutting blade 5 of the present embodiment has a substantially disc-shaped shape, and a sawtooth blade is provided along the outer periphery. When the motor 60 rotates, the rotation is transmitted to the output shaft via the gear mechanism. As a result, the output shaft and the cutting blade 5 rotate integrally.

[0040] The power-operated working machine 1 is provided with a cover 6. The cover 6 is provided near the front end of the main pipe 2. The cover 6 suppresses an object (for example, an object to be cut) around the cutting blade 5 from flying toward the user of the power-operated working machine 1 due to the rotation of the cutting blade 5.

[0041] The power-operated working machine 1 is provided with a handle 7. The handle 7 has a U-shaped configuration. The handle 7 is connected to the main pipe 2 near an intermediate position in the longitudinal direction of the main pipe 2. A right grip 8 is provided at the first end of the handle 7, and a left grip 9 is provided at the second end of the handle 7. The right grip 8 is gripped by the right hand of the user, and the left grip 9 is gripped by the left hand of the user.

[0042] The power-operated working machine 1 is provided with an operation unit 12. The operation unit 12 is provided at the tip of the right grip 8. The power-operated working machine 1 is provided with a lock-off switch 10 and a trigger 11.

[0043] The trigger 11 is provided on the tip side and the front side of the right grip 8. The trigger 11 is manually operated by the user to instruct the drive (i.e., rotation) or stop of the motor 60. When the user is gripping the right grip 8 with the right hand, the user can push the trigger 11 backward (i.e., toward the right grip 8 side) with a finger (for example, the index finger) of the right hand.

[0044] The trigger 11 is biased forward of the right grip 8 by a first elastic body. Therefore, the trigger 11 is in an initial position as shown in FIGS. 1, 2, and 4 during normal times when not touched by the user.

[0045] The lock-off switch 10 is provided on the tip side and the rear side of the right grip 8. The lock-off switch 10 mechanically permits, or suppresses or blocks, the trigger 11 from moving backward from the initial position.

[0046] The lock-off switch 10 is biased rearward of the right grip 8 by a second elastic body (not shown). Therefore, the lock-off switch 10 is in its initial position as shown in FIGS. 1, 2, and 4 during normal times when not touched by the user.

[0047] The lock-off switch 10 in the initial position suppresses or prevents the trigger 11 from moving rearward from the initial position. More specifically, the lock-off switch 10 in the initial position prevents the trigger switch 27 (see FIGS. 5 and 7) from being turned on. The trigger switch 27 is turned on or off in conjunction with the trigger 11. When the trigger 11 is in the initial position, the trigger switch 27 is off.

[0048] When the user grips the right grip 8 with the right hand, the lock-off switch 10 is pushed forward (i.e., toward the right grip 8 side) by the right hand (specifically, for example, the palm or around the base of the thumb). As a result, the lock-off switch 10 moves forward from the initial position against the elastic force of the second elastic body.

[0049] When the lock-off switch 10 is moved forward, the movement of the trigger 11 is permitted. That is, when the trigger 11 is pushed in a state where the lock-off switch 10 is moved forward, the trigger 11 moves rearward from the initial position against the elastic force of the first elastic body. When the trigger 11 moves rearward from the initial position by a certain length or more, the trigger switch 27 is turned on. The certain length may be zero.

[0050] (2-1-2) Operating Unit With reference to FIGS. 2 to 6, the specific configuration of the operating unit 12 will be described. The operating unit 12 includes first and second half housings 12a and 12b combined with each other. The first and second half housings 12a and 12b form one housing in the operating unit 12.

[0051] As shown in FIG. 2, the operation unit 12 includes an operation panel 13. As shown in FIG. 3, the operation panel 13 includes a main power switch 14a. The main power switch 14a is pressed by the user. The main power switch 14a outputs a main power signal while the main power switch 14a is being pressed. The main power switch 14a is pressed by the user to set the main power state of the power working machine 1 to on or off.

[0052] The "main power state" means whether the controller 40 (see FIG. 7) described later is operable, more specifically, whether the control circuit 41 described later is operable. When the main power state is on, various operations of the power working machine 1 become possible. When the main power state is off, the power working machine 1 does not operate.

[0053] In the power working machine 1 of the present embodiment, a set rotation direction and an operation mode are respectively set. The set rotation direction is alternatively set to either forward rotation or reverse rotation. The operation mode is alternatively set to any one of a normal mode, an automatic shift mode, and a drive prohibition mode. The normal mode includes a manual shift mode and a stop mode. Therefore, the operation mode is more specifically alternatively set to any one of a manual shift mode, a stop mode, an automatic shift mode, and a drive prohibition mode.

[0054] The main power switch 14a is further operated by the user to set the set rotation direction. In the initial state immediately after the main power state is switched to on, the set rotation direction is set to forward rotation. While the main power state is on, each time the main power switch 14a is pressed in the first mode, the set rotation direction alternates. When the main power switch 14a is pressed in the second mode while the main power state is on, the main power state is switched to off.

[0055] The first and second modes may be any modes. In the present embodiment, the first mode is a short press, and the second mode is a long press. A long press means pressing and holding for a certain period of time or more. A short press means releasing before a certain period of time has elapsed since the start of pressing.

[0056] As shown in FIG. 3, the operation panel 13 includes a first display unit 14b. The first display unit 14b of the present embodiment includes a first LED. When the main power supply state is set to off, the first display unit 14b turns off (i.e., the first LED turns off). When the main power supply state is set to on, the first display unit 14b turns on. When the operation mode is set to the drive prohibition mode, the first display unit 14b blinks.

[0057] As shown in FIG. 3, the operation panel 13 includes a second display unit 14c. The second display unit 14c of the present embodiment includes a second LED. When the operation mode is set to the automatic transmission mode, the second display unit 14c turns on (i.e., the second LED turns on). When the set rotation direction is set to reverse, the first display unit 14b and the second display unit 14c blink.

[0058] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 4, the operation unit 12 includes a lever 16. The lever 16 is rotatable about a rotation axis 160. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 4, the lever 16 is movable (i.e., rotatable) between a first position P1 and a fourth position P4 in a first direction D1 and a second direction D2. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 4, the operation unit 12 includes a stopper 17. In the present embodiment, when the lever 16 reaches the fourth position P4, the lever 16 abuts against the stopper 17.

[0059] As shown in FIG. 2, the lever 16 includes a shaft portion 16a and a tip portion 16b. The first end of the shaft portion 16a is fixed to a lever support member 20 (see FIG. 5) in the operation unit 12. The tip portion 16b is provided at the second end of the shaft portion 16a. The aforementioned rotation axis 160 is a virtual axis existing near the first end of the shaft portion 16a. The length direction of the shaft portion 16a is orthogonal or substantially orthogonal to the rotation axis 160.

[0060] The tip portion 16b is touched by the user when the user moves the lever 16. Basically, the user can move the lever 16 by applying a load to the tip portion 16b in the first direction D1 or the second direction D2, for example, with the user's thumb or the like.

[0061] With such a configuration, the tip portion 16b moves along an arc-shaped movement path Y (see FIG. 4). The movement path Y is on an arc having a radius from the rotation axis 160 to the tip of the lever 16. The first direction D1 and the second direction D2 are along the arc. The first end of the movement path Y corresponds to the first position P1, and the second end of the movement path Y corresponds to the fourth position P4.

[0062] When the lever 16 at the first position P1 is pushed by the user in the second direction D2, the lever 16 reaches the fourth position P4 via the second position P2 and the third position P3. When the lever 16 at the fourth position P4 is pushed by the user in the first direction D1, the lever 16 reaches the first position P1 via the third position P3 and the second position P2.

[0063] There is a first reference position Pa between the second position P2 and the third position P3, and a second reference position Pb between the third position P3 and the fourth position P4. FIG. 4 shows the state where the lever 16 is at the first reference position Pa.

[0064] The movement range of the lever 16 includes a first region R1, a second region R2, a third region R3, and a switching occurrence region Ra. The first region R1 is between the first position P1 and the second position P2. The second region R2 is between the second position P2 and the third position P3. The third region R3 is between the third position P3 and the fourth position P4. Therefore, when the lever 16 is moved from the first region R1 to the third region R3 (or vice versa), the lever 16 passes through the second region R2. The switching occurrence region Ra is between the first reference position Pa and the second reference position Pb.

[0065] The first reference position Pa and the second reference position Pb are positions where the user can obtain a clicking sensation from the lever 16. The clicking sensation is a specific physical reaction, tactile sensation, or resistance force. The user can move the lever 16 smoothly except in the switching occurrence region Ra. That is, outside the switching occurrence region Ra, the user can move the lever 16 with a relatively small force. On the other hand, in order to move the lever 16 in the switching occurrence region Ra, a relatively larger force than the movement outside the switching occurrence region Ra is required. With such a structure, when the user moves the lever 16 to reach the first reference position Pa, a clicking sensation can be obtained from the lever 16, and thereby the user can recognize that the lever 16 has reached the first reference position Pa. The same applies when the user moves the lever 16 to reach the second reference position Pb.

[0066] The internal configuration of the operation unit 12 and the mechanism for generating the clicking sensation will be described more specifically with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6. FIGS. 5 and 6 show the state when the lever 16 is at the first reference position Pa.

[0067] As shown in FIG. 5, the operation unit 12 includes the aforementioned trigger switch 27. The operation unit 12 includes a switch box 28. The switch box 28 includes a lever switch 51 and a shift signal output unit 52 (see FIG. 7). The lever switch 51 is turned on or off according to the position of the lever 16. The shift signal output unit 52 outputs a shift signal according to the position of the lever 16.

[0068] As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the operation unit 12 includes, inside thereof, a lever support member 20 and a biasing member 24. The lever support member 20 includes a cylindrical body 22 and a flange 21. The flange 21 is provided at the first end of the cylindrical body 22. As described above, the first end of the lever 16 is fixed to the lever support member 20. Specifically, the first end of the lever 16 is fixed to the second end of the cylindrical body 22. The lever support member 20 rotates integrally with the lever 16 about the rotation axis 160. That is, when the lever 16 is moved in the first direction D1 by the user, the lever support member 20 also rotates in the first direction D1 (in other words, counterclockwise in FIG. 5) along with the movement. When the lever 16 is moved in the second direction D2 by the user, the lever support member 20 also rotates in the second direction D2 (in other words, clockwise in FIG. 5) along with the movement.

[0069] The cylindrical body 22 includes a cylindrical side surface 22a and a protrusion 23. The protrusion 23 is provided on the cylindrical side surface 22a. The protrusion 23 includes a protruding surface 23a. The distance from the rotation axis 160 to the protruding surface 23a is longer than the distance from the rotation axis 160 to the cylindrical side surface 22a.

[0070] The biasing member 24 includes an elastic member 24a and a tip member 24b. The elastic member 24a may be in a form such as being able to apply an elastic force. The elastic member 24a of the present embodiment is in the form of a coil spring. Although details are not shown, the first end of the elastic member 24a is fixed inside the operation unit 12. The tip member 24b is fixed to the second end of the elastic member 24a. The tip member 24b is in the form of a spherical metal in the present embodiment.

[0071] The tip member 24b is biased by the elastic member 24a toward the cylindrical side surface 22a (in other words, toward the rotation axis 160). In a non-contact state of the tip surface where the tip member 24b does not touch the protruding surface 23a, the tip member 24b is in contact with the cylindrical side surface 22a or is separated from the cylindrical side surface 22a by a minute distance. At this time, the distance from the rotation axis 160 to the tip member 24b is shorter than the distance from the rotation axis 160 to the protruding surface 23a. FIGS. 5 and 6 show the tip member 24b in the non-contact state of the tip surface. However, in FIGS. 5 and 6, the tip member 24b is in contact with the first side surface of the protrusion 23. That is, when the lever 16 is at the first reference position Pa, the tip member 24b is in contact with the side surface of the protrusion 23. At this time, the elastic member 24a may not be contracted at all or may be contracted. From this state, when the lever 16 is moved in the second direction D2, the elastic member 24a contracts due to the load received from the protrusion 23 via the tip member 24b, and thereby the tip member 24b rides over the protrusion 23 and comes into contact with the protruding surface 23a. This state is referred to as a contact state of the tip surface. After the contact state of the tip surface is reached, when the lever 16 is further moved in the second direction D2 and reaches the second reference position Pb, the tip member 24b comes off the protrusion 23 and faces the cylindrical side surface 22a. That is, the contact state of the tip surface is achieved when the position of the lever 16 is within the switching occurrence region Ra, and the non-contact state of the tip surface is achieved when the position of the lever 16 is outside the switching occurrence region Ra.

[0072] The load received by the lever support member 20 from the tip member 24b is greater in the contact state of the tip surface than in the non-contact state of the tip surface. Therefore, the force required to move the lever 16 within the switching occurrence region Ra is greater than the force required to move the lever 16 outside the switching occurrence region Ra. In other words, the user feels a greater sense of resistance when moving the lever 16 within the switching occurrence region Ra than when moving it outside the switching occurrence region Ra. Such a difference in the force required to move the lever 16 (in other words, a difference in the sense of resistance received via the lever 16) generates the above-described click feeling.

[0073] The user can hold the right grip 8 with one hand (for example, the right hand) and simultaneously touch and operate the trigger 11 and the lever 16 with that one hand. Specifically, the user can move the trigger 11 with, for example, the index finger and move the lever 16 with the thumb.

[0074] (2-1-3) Electrical configuration Referring to FIG. 7, the electrical configuration of the electric working machine 1 will be described. The electric working machine 1 includes a motor 60 and a controller 40. When the battery pack 100 is mounted on the battery mounting portion, the battery 100a is electrically connected to the controller 40 as shown in FIG. 7.

[0075] The motor 60 is in the form of a brushless motor in this embodiment. The motor 60 includes terminals 60a, 60b, and 60c. The terminals 60a, 60b, and 60c are electrically connected to the controller 40 (specifically, to a drive circuit 45 described in detail later). The motor 60 includes, inside thereof, three windings (not shown) that are delta-connected or star-connected to each other and each correspond to one of the three phases. The three windings are electrically connected to the terminals 60a, 60b, and 60c. The motor 60 is supplied with three-phase power from the controller 40 via the terminals 60a, 60b, and 60c and thereby rotates.

[0076] The controller 40 includes a control circuit 41. The control circuit 41 of this embodiment includes a microcomputer including a CPU 41a and a memory 41b. The memory 41b includes semiconductor memories such as, for example, ROM, RAM, NVRAM, and flash memory. The control circuit 41 (specifically, the CPU 41a) realizes various functions by executing a program stored in the memory 41b. Also, the control circuit 41 stores temporary data generated according to various functions in the memory 41b.

[0077] Some or all of the various functions realized by the control circuit 41 may be achieved by executing a program (i.e., by software processing), or may be achieved by one or more pieces of hardware. For example, instead of or in addition to a microcomputer, the control circuit 41 may include a logic circuit including a plurality of electronic components, may include an application-specific integrated circuit such as an ASIC and / or an ASSP, or may include a programmable logic device such as an FPGA capable of constructing any logic circuit.

[0078] The controller 40 includes a power control circuit 42 and a regulator 43. The power control circuit 42 is electrically connected to the positive electrode of the battery 100a, and DC battery power is input from the battery 100a. The power control circuit 42 controls the supply of battery power to the regulator 43. When battery power is supplied from the power control circuit 42, the regulator 43 generates a DC control voltage from the battery power and outputs the control voltage to each part within the controller 40.

[0079] When the battery pack 100 is mounted on the battery mounting part, the main power supply state of the controller 40 (in other words, the main power supply state of the control circuit 41) is off. That is, at this point in time, the control voltage is not yet supplied to the control circuit 41, and the control circuit 41 does not start up.

[0080] The control circuit 41 is electrically connected to the main power switch 14a. After the battery pack 100 is mounted and the main power switch 14a is pressed, a main power signal is input from the main power switch 14a to the power control circuit 42 and the control circuit 41. When receiving the main power signal, the power control circuit 42 supplies battery power to the regulator 43. Thereby, a control voltage is supplied from the regulator 43 to the control circuit 41, and the control circuit 41 starts up.

[0081] When activated, the control circuit 41 sets the main power supply state to on and continuously outputs a power hold signal to the power control circuit 42. While the power hold signal is being input, the power control circuit 42 supplies the battery voltage to the regulator 43.

[0082] When the main power switch 14a is long-pressed while the main power supply state is on, the control circuit 41 performs the necessary processing to stop its own operation, sets the main power supply state to off, and stops the power hold signal. While the main power supply state is on, each time the main power switch 14a is short-pressed, the control circuit 41 alternately switches the set rotation direction to a direction different from the currently set direction between forward rotation and reverse rotation.

[0083] When the input of the power hold signal stops, the power control circuit 42 stops supplying battery power to the regulator 43. As a result, the control voltage is no longer generated by the regulator 43, and the operation of the control circuit 41 stops. Note that the on and off states of the main power supply state may be defined in any way. For example, the period during which the control voltage is supplied to the control circuit 41 and the control circuit 41 is activated may be defined as the on state of the main power supply state, and the period during which the control voltage is not supplied to the control circuit 41 and the control circuit 41 has stopped operating may be defined as the off state of the main power supply state.

[0084] The controller 40 includes a gate circuit 44 and a drive circuit 45. The gate circuit 44 is electrically connected to the positive electrode of the battery 100a and receives battery power. The drive circuit 45 is electrically connected to the positive electrode of the battery 100a via the cutoff switch 49 and receives battery power via the cutoff switch 49.

[0085] The drive circuit 45 of the present embodiment is in the form of a three-phase full-bridge circuit. That is, the drive circuit 45 includes three switching elements on the high side and three switching elements on the low side. Each switching element and the cutoff switch 49 are, for example, in the form of a semiconductor switching element, and more specifically, in the form of a MOSFET, for example.

[0086] The control circuit 41 outputs a switch control signal and a motor control signal to the gate circuit 44. The switch control signal controls the cutoff switch 49. The motor control signal controls the drive circuit 45, thereby controlling the rotation of the motor 60. The motor control signal includes six switch control signals corresponding to the six switching elements in the drive circuit 45. In this embodiment, the six switch control signals can be in the form of, for example, pulse width modulation signals (PWM signals).

[0087] When the switch control signal indicates that the cutoff switch 49 is on, the gate circuit 44 outputs a switch drive signal for turning on the cutoff switch 49 to the cutoff switch 49. As a result, the cutoff switch 49 turns on. Based on the motor control signal, the gate circuit 44 outputs a motor drive signal for turning on or off each of the switching elements in the drive circuit 45. The gate circuit 44 generates these switch drive signals and motor drive signals from the battery power.

[0088] When driving the motor 60, the control circuit 41 turns on the cutoff switch 49 and drives the drive circuit 45 via the gate circuit 44 by means of the switch control signal and the motor control signal. As a result, the motor 60 is driven.

[0089] The drive circuit 45 operates according to the motor control signal from the control circuit 41 (specifically, according to the motor drive signal from the gate circuit 44). When a motor control signal for driving the motor 60 is output, the drive circuit 45 generates three-phase power according to the motor control signal and supplies it to the motor 60.

[0090] The controller 40 includes a battery voltage detection unit 53. The battery voltage detection unit 53 detects the battery voltage value and outputs a voltage signal indicating the detected battery voltage value to the control circuit 41. The battery voltage value corresponds to the magnitude of the output voltage of the battery pack 100.

[0091] The controller 40 includes a current detection circuit 46. The current detection circuit 46 detects the battery current value and outputs a current signal indicating the detected battery current value to the control circuit 41. The battery current value corresponds to the magnitude of the current supplied from the battery pack 100 to the drive circuit 45 (and thus to the motor 60).

[0092] The controller 40 includes a temperature detection circuit 47. The temperature detection circuit 47 detects the circuit temperature of the controller 40 and outputs a temperature signal indicating the detected circuit temperature to the control circuit 41. The controller 40 includes a position detection circuit 48. The position detection circuit 48 is electrically connected to the terminals 60a, 60b, 60c of the motor 60. The position detection circuit 48 captures the induced voltages generated at these terminals 60a, 60b, 60c as the motor 60 rotates from each of the terminals 60a, 60b, 60c. Then, based on each of the captured induced voltages, a position detection signal corresponding to the rotational position of the motor 60 is output to the control circuit 41. Specifically, the position detection circuit 48 detects the timing (zero-crossing point) at which the value of each induced voltage crosses the reference voltage value during the process of its change. The position detection signal indicates the detected zero-crossing point. The control circuit 41 detects the rotational position and rotational speed of the motor 60 based on the input position detection signals (i.e., based on each zero-crossing point). Note that the method of detecting the rotational position and rotational speed based on the induced voltage generated from a rotating brushless motor as described above is well-known as one of the core technologies in so-called sensorless drive in a brushless motor.

[0093] When the drive requirements are met when the set rotation direction is set to forward rotation, the control circuit 41 rotates the motor 60 forward. When the motor 60 rotates forward, the cutting blade 5 rotates in the cutting direction. The cutting direction is the rotational direction in which the object to be cut can be cut.

[0094] On the one hand, when the trigger 11 is moved while the set rotation direction is set to reverse, the control circuit 41 reverses the motor 60 for a certain period of time. When the motor 60 reverses, the cutting blade 5 rotates in the picking-up direction. The picking-up direction is opposite to the cutting direction. By rotating the cutting blade 5 in the picking-up direction, it is possible to remove the object to be cut that has become stuck to the cutting blade 5 during rotation in the cutting direction from the cutting blade 5.

[0095] When the control circuit 41 reverses the motor 60 for a certain period of time based on the set rotation direction being set to reverse, the control circuit 41 returns the set rotation direction to forward rotation. The control circuit 41 is electrically connected to the trigger switch 27. While the trigger switch 27 is turned on, a first signal is input from the trigger switch 27 to the control circuit 41. The first signal indicates that the trigger switch 27 is turned on (and thus the trigger 11 has moved a certain length or more from the initial position).

[0096] The control circuit 41 is electrically connected to the reverse switch 51 and the shift signal output unit 52 in the switch box 28. While the reverse switch 51 is turned on, a second signal is input from the reverse switch 51 to the control circuit 41. As shown in FIG. 8, the reverse switch 51 is turned off when the lever 16 is in the third region R3, and is turned on when the lever 16 is in the first region R1 or the second region R2. The second signal indicates that the reverse switch 51 is turned on (and thus the lever 16 is in the first region R1 or the second region R2).

[0097] The shift signal output unit 52 has a voltage corresponding to the position of the lever 16. As shown in FIG. 8, when the lever 16 is between the first reference position Pa and the fourth position P4, the shift signal has a substantially constant voltage value close to 0 [V]. When the lever 16 is moved from the first reference position Pa in the first direction D1, the voltage value of the shift signal gradually increases as it moves.

[0098] In this embodiment, when the lever 16 reaches the predetermined maximum speed reach position Pc, the increase in the shift signal stops. Even if the lever 16 is further moved in the first direction D1 from the maximum speed reach position Pc, the voltage value of the shift signal remains constant. Note that the maximum speed reach position Pc may be set anywhere on the first direction D1 side of the second position P2. Alternatively, the maximum speed reach position Pc may not be set. In other words, the maximum speed reach position Pc may coincide with the first position P1. In this case, the voltage value of the shift signal gradually increases until the lever 16 is moved from the second position P2 to the first position P1.

[0099] In this embodiment, the voltage value of the shift signal increases linearly. However, the shift signal may increase in any manner. For example, it may increase non-linearly. More specifically, the shift signal may increase stepwise, for example.

[0100] The control circuit 41 is electrically connected to the first display unit 14b and the second display unit 14c. The control circuit 41 controls the first display unit 14b and the second display unit 14c individually. Specifically, as described above, the first LED and the second LED are individually turned on, blinked, or turned off according to the state of the power-operated work machine 1.

[0101] (2-1-4) Operating Mode The operating mode set by the control circuit 41 will be specifically described with reference to FIG. 8. In this embodiment, when the set rotation direction is set to forward rotation, as shown in FIG. 8, according to the position of the lever 16, the operating mode of the control circuit 41 (and thus the operating mode of the controller 40 or the operating mode of the power-operated work machine 1) is set.

[0102] Specifically, when the lever 16 is in the first region R1 or the second region R2, the control circuit 41 sets the operating mode to the normal mode. When the lever 16 is in the third region R3, the control circuit 41 sets the operating mode to the automatic shift mode.

[0103] As described above, the normal mode includes, in more detail, a stop mode and a manual shift mode. The control circuit 41 sets the operation mode to the manual shift mode when the lever 16 is in the first region R1, and sets the operation mode to the stop mode when the lever 16 is in the second region R2, in more detail.

[0104] In the present embodiment, the control circuit 41 determines whether the lever 16 has moved to the first region R1 based on the voltage value of the shift signal. When the voltage value of the shift signal is smaller than the operating point G shown in FIG. 8, the control circuit 41 determines that the lever 16 is not in the first region R1. When the voltage value of the shift signal becomes equal to or higher than the operating point G, the control circuit 41 determines that the lever 16 has entered the first region R1 and sets the operation mode to the manual shift mode.

[0105] When the lever switch 51 is on and the voltage value of the shift signal is smaller than the operating point G, the control circuit 41 determines that the lever 16 has entered the second region R2 and sets the operation mode to the stop mode.

[0106] When the lever switch 51 is off, the control circuit 41 determines that the lever 16 has entered the third region R3 and sets the operation mode to the automatic shift mode. When the driving requirements are satisfied, the control circuit 41 rotates the motor 60 by the above-described switch control signal and motor control signal. In the present embodiment, the driving requirements are satisfied based on the fact that the trigger switch 27 is on and the lever 16 has moved to the first region R1 or the third region R3 on the premise that the set rotation direction is set to forward rotation.

[0107] When the operation mode is set to the manual shift mode (that is, when the lever 16 has moved to the first region R1) and the trigger switch 27 is turned on, the control circuit 41 rotates the motor 60 in the first control method. In other words, the control circuit 41 controls the drive circuit 45 by the above-described switch control signal and motor control signal so that the motor 60 rotates according to the first control method. The first control method is a control method corresponding to the manual shift mode.

[0108] The first control method is to control the rotation of the motor 60 so that the motor 60 rotates at a target rotation speed according to the position of the lever 16. Specifically, in the first control method, the control circuit 41 sets the target rotation speed based on the position of the lever 16 in the first region R1 (specifically, based on the voltage value of the shift signal). FIG. 8 shows an example of setting the target rotation speed in the first control method. As shown in FIG. 8, in the present embodiment, as the lever 16 moves from the second position P2 to the maximum speed reach position Pc, the target rotation speed increases. When the lever 16 reaches the maximum speed reach position Pc, the target rotation speed reaches the maximum value. In the present embodiment, even if the lever 16 is further moved in the first direction D1 from the maximum speed reach position Pc, the target rotation speed is maintained at the aforementioned maximum value.

[0109] Note that the target rotation speed may increase as the lever 16 moves from the second position P2 to the first position P1. The target rotation speed may increase in any manner. For example, the target rotation speed may increase linearly or non-linearly. The target rotation speed may increase discontinuously (e.g., stepwise). The section where the target rotation speed increases continuously and the section where it increases discontinuously may be mixed.

[0110] The control circuit 41 compares the rotation speed of the motor 60 (i.e., the actual rotation speed) detected based on each position detection signal from the position detection circuit 48 with the set target rotation speed. Then, a motor control signal is generated and output so that the actual rotation speed matches the target rotation speed.

[0111] In the stop mode, the control circuit 41 stops the motor 60 regardless of the state of the trigger switch 27. When the operation mode is set to the automatic transmission mode (i.e., the lever 16 is moved to the third region R3) and the trigger switch 27 is turned on, the control circuit 41 rotates the motor 60 in the second control method. In other words, the control circuit 41 controls the drive circuit 45 by the aforementioned switch control signal and motor control signal so that the motor 60 rotates according to the second control method. The second control method is a control method corresponding to the automatic transmission mode and is different from the first control method.

[0112] The second control method is to control the rotation of the motor 60 so that the motor 60 rotates at a target rotation speed according to the magnitude of the load received by the motor. Specifically, in the second control method, the magnitude of the load received by the motor 60 is detected. The load here is, for example, the force in the direction opposite to the rotation direction of the motor 60 received by the rotor of the motor 60. The load on the motor 60 can change according to the situation of the cutting operation by the cutting blade 5. The state where the cutting operation is not being performed and the cutting blade 5 is idling has the smallest load. When the cutting blade 5 is applied to the cutting target and the cutting operation is performed, the load increases. The magnitude of the load may be detected in any way. The magnitude of the load may be detected, for example, based on the battery current value indicated by the current detection signal input from the current detection circuit 46.

[0113] In the second control method, the control circuit 41 sets the target rotation speed according to the magnitude of the load. Specifically, in this embodiment, the greater the load, the greater the target rotation speed. The control circuit 41 may set the target rotation speed in any way according to the magnitude of the load. For example, when the magnitude of the load is less than the threshold value, the control circuit 41 may set the target rotation speed to the first speed, and when the magnitude of the load is greater than or equal to the threshold value, the control circuit 41 may set the target rotation speed to the second speed. The second speed is greater than the first speed. When the cutting blade 5 is idling, a target rotation speed even smaller than the first speed may be set. The target rotation speed may change continuously or stepwise according to the magnitude of the load.

[0114] The electric working machine 1 of the present embodiment further has the following features. That is, when the motor 60 is driven in the manual shift mode and the trigger switch 27 is kept on, if the lever 16 is moved to the third region R3 and the operation mode is switched to the automatic shift mode, the control circuit 41 stops the motor 60. In this case, since the lever 16 moves to the second region R2 before moving to the third region R3, the control circuit 41 stops the motor 60 when it enters the second region R2. Then, even if the lever 16 further moves to the third region R3, the control circuit 41 maintains the stop of the motor 60. And when the user performs a re-trigger, the motor 60 is rotated in the automatic shift mode (that is, in the second control method). Re-trigger means operating the trigger 11 so that the trigger switch 27 is once turned off and then turned on again.

[0115] Similarly, when the motor 60 is driven in the automatic shift mode and the trigger switch 27 is kept on, if the lever 16 is moved to the first region R1 and the operation mode is switched to the manual shift mode, the control circuit 41 also stops the motor 60. And when a re-trigger is performed, the motor 60 is rotated in the manual shift mode (that is, in the first control method).

[0116] (2-1-5) Processing of the control circuit The main power supply state setting process, mode change detection process, operation mode setting process, and motor control process executed by the control circuit 41 (specifically, the CPU 41a) to realize the above various operations will be described below. In the present embodiment, for example, programs for these processes are stored in the memory 41b. The control circuit 41 realizes these processes by executing the corresponding programs.

[0117] (2-1-5-1) Main power supply state setting process Referring to FIG. 9, the main power supply state setting process will be described. The main power supply state setting process is a process for setting the main power supply state and the set rotation direction. When the control voltage is input and the control circuit 41 starts up, it executes the main power supply state setting process.

[0118] When the control circuit 41 starts the main power supply state setting process, at S110, it sets the main power supply state to on, sets the set rotation direction to forward rotation, and sets the switching flag to off. At S120, the control circuit 41 determines whether the main power switch 14a has been pressed. The control circuit 41 can recognize that the main power switch 14a has been pressed based on receiving the main power signal. If the main power switch 14a has not been pressed, the control circuit 41 repeats the process of S120. If the main power switch 14a has been pressed, this process proceeds to S130.

[0119] At S130, the control circuit 41 determines whether the main power switch 14a has been pressed briefly or long - pressed. If the main power switch 14a has been pressed briefly, this process proceeds to S140. At S140, the control circuit 41 determines whether the set rotation direction is set to forward rotation or reverse rotation. If it is set to forward rotation, at S160, the control circuit 41 sets the set rotation direction to reverse rotation and proceeds to S120. If it is set to reverse rotation, at S150, the control circuit 41 sets the set rotation direction to forward rotation and proceeds to S120.

[0120] If it is determined at S130 that the main power switch 14a has been long - pressed, this process proceeds to S170. At S170, the control circuit 41 sets the main power supply state to off and ends this process. At S170, the control circuit 41 stops outputting the power - holding signal to the power control circuit 42. As a result, the supply of the control voltage to the control circuit 41 is stopped, and the control circuit 41 stops operating.

[0121] (2 - 1 - 5 - 2) Mode Switching Detection Process Referring to FIG. 10, the mode switching detection process will be described. The mode switching detection process is a process for detecting that the operation mode has switched from the automatic transmission mode to the normal mode (or vice versa). When starting up, the control circuit 41 repeatedly executes the mode switching detection process at a predetermined control cycle.

[0122] When the control circuit 41 starts the mode switching detection process, at S210, it determines whether the reverse switch 51 has been switched. The switching of the reverse switch 51 means that the reverse switch 51 switches from on to off, or the reverse switch 51 switches from off to on. If the reverse switch 51 has not been switched, the control circuit 41 ends this process. If the reverse switch 51 has been switched, this process proceeds to S220.

[0123] At S220, the control circuit 41 determines whether the trigger switch 27 is on. If the trigger switch 27 is off, the control circuit 41 ends this process. If the trigger switch 27 is on, this process proceeds to S230.

[0124] At S230, the control circuit 41 sets the switching flag to on. After the process of S230, the control circuit 41 ends this process. (2-1-5-3) Operation mode setting process Referring to FIG. 11, the operation mode setting process will be described. The operation mode setting process is a process for setting the operation mode. When the set rotation direction is set to forward rotation, the control circuit 41 repeatedly executes the operation mode setting process, for example, at the above control period.

[0125] When the control circuit 41 starts the operation mode setting process, at S310, it determines whether the switching flag is set to on. If the switching flag is set to off, this process proceeds to S320.

[0126] At S320, the control circuit 41 determines whether the reverse switch 51 is on. If the reverse switch 51 is off (that is, when the lever 16 is in the third region R3), the control circuit 41 sets the operation mode to the automatic transmission mode at S330 and proceeds to S310. If the reverse switch 51 is on (that is, when the lever 16 is in the first region R1 or the second region R2), this process proceeds to S340.

[0127] In S340, the control circuit 41 sets the operation mode to the normal mode. More specifically, in S341, the control circuit 41 determines whether the position of the lever 16 is within the first region R1. If the lever 16 is not within the first region R1 (i.e., it is within the second region R2), the control circuit 41 sets the operation mode to the stop mode in S342 and proceeds to S310. If the lever 16 is within the first region R1, the control circuit 41 sets the operation mode to the manual shift mode in S343 and proceeds to S310.

[0128] If the switching flag is set to on in S310, this process proceeds to S350. In S350, the control circuit 41 sets the operation mode to the drive prohibition mode. In S360, the control circuit 41 determines whether the trigger switch 27 is turned off. If the trigger switch 27 is turned on, this process proceeds to S350. That is, after the operation state is set to the drive prohibition mode, the operation mode is maintained in the drive prohibition mode while the trigger switch 27 is turned on. If the trigger switch 27 is turned off, the control circuit 41 sets the switching flag to off in S370 and proceeds to S310.

[0129] (2-1-5-4) Motor control process Referring to FIG. 12, the motor control process will be described. The motor control process is a process for controlling the rotation of the motor 60 based on the set rotation direction and operation mode. When starting up, the control circuit 41 executes the motor control process.

[0130] When starting the motor control process, the control circuit 41 determines in S510 whether the trigger switch 27 is turned on. If the trigger switch 27 is turned off, the control circuit 41 performs stop control in S570 and proceeds to S510.

[0131] The stop control is a process for stopping the rotation of the motor 60. The stop control may be a control such as being able to stop the rotation of the motor 60. The stop control may include, for example, allowing the motor 60 to run freely. Running freely means rotating the motor 60 by inertia by stopping the power supply from the battery 100a to the motor 60 and turning off all six switching elements in the drive circuit 45. The stop control may include, for example, applying a brake to the motor 60 to force it to decelerate. The brake is realized, for example, by electrically short - circuiting any two or three of the terminals 60a, 60b, 60c of the motor 60. Specifically, for example, by turning off the three switching elements on the high - side in the drive circuit 45 and turning on any two or three of the three switching elements on the low - side, a brake can be applied. Such a brake may be referred to as a "short - circuit brake" or the like. The stop control may include free running and braking. For example, it may first run freely for a predetermined time and then apply a brake to stop the motor 60.

[0132] Note that the stop control is performed at S570 when the control circuit 41 is driving the motor 60 when shifting to S570. When the motor 60 has already stopped when shifting to S570, the control circuit 41 maintains the stopped state of the motor 60.

[0133] At S510, if the trigger switch 27 is turned on, this process shifts to S520. At S520, the control circuit 41 determines whether the set rotation direction is set to forward or reverse. If the set rotation direction is set to reverse, this process shifts to S580.

[0134] In the S580, the control circuit 41 executes reverse control. Specifically, the motor 60 is reversed for a certain period of time. As a result, the cutting blade 5 is rotated in the above-mentioned entanglement removal direction. After executing the reverse control, in S590, the control circuit 41 sets the set rotation direction to forward rotation. Then, in S600, it waits for the trigger switch 27 to be turned off. When the trigger switch 27 is turned off, this process proceeds to S510.

[0135] In S520, if the set rotation direction is set to forward rotation, this process proceeds to S530. In S530, the control circuit 41 determines the currently set operation mode. When the operation mode is set to the automatic shift mode, the control circuit 41 executes automatic shift control in S550. Specifically, the control circuit 41 rotates the motor 60 according to the above-mentioned second control method. After executing the process of S550, this process proceeds to S510.

[0136] When the operation mode is set to the manual shift mode, the control circuit 41 executes manual shift control in S560. Specifically, the control circuit 41 rotates the motor 60 according to the above-mentioned first control method. After executing the process of S560, this process proceeds to S510.

[0137] When the operation mode is set to the stop mode or the drive prohibition mode, the control circuit 41 executes stop control in S540. Specifically, the control circuit 41 stops the rotation of the motor 60. The stop control in S540 may be control such as being able to stop the rotation of the motor 60. The stop control in S540 may be the same as the stop control in S570, for example. Note that stop control is performed in S540 when the control circuit 41 is driving the motor 60 when shifting to S540. If the motor 60 has already been stopped when shifting to S540, the control circuit 41 maintains the stopped state of the motor 60. After executing the process of S540, this process proceeds to S510.

[0138] (2-1-6) Correspondence of Terms The trigger 11 is an example of the first operation unit in the overview of the embodiment. The lever 16 is an example of the second operation unit in the overview of the embodiment. The manual operation of the trigger 11 by the user to turn on the trigger switch 27 is an example of the drive operation in the overview of the embodiment. The re-trigger is an example of the specific operation in the overview of the embodiment. The combination of the lever support member 20 and the biasing member 24 is an example of the click feeling generating unit in the overview of the embodiment.

[0139] [2-2. Other Embodiments] As described above, the embodiments of the present disclosure have been described. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments and can be implemented with various modifications.

[0140] (2-2-1) The first region R1 (manual shift mode), the second region R2 (stop mode), and the third region R3 (automatic shift mode) may be set anywhere on the movement path Y. For example, the first region R1 may be on the second direction D2 side of the second region R2, and the third region R3 may be on the first direction D1 side of the second region R2. That is, by moving the lever 16 from the second region R2 in the first direction D1, the automatic shift mode may be switched, and by moving the lever 16 from the second region R2 in the second direction D2, the manual shift mode may be switched.

[0141] Also, for example, the first region R1 and the third region R3 may be adjacent to each other. That is, the lever 16 may be moved between the first region R1 and the third region R3 without passing through the second region R2. Also in this case, when the lever 16 is moved from the first region R1 to the third region R3 (or vice versa), the motor 60 may be stopped once. Then, when the re-trigger is performed, the motor may be rotated in a control method according to the operation mode (automatic shift mode or manual shift mode) of the destination region.

[0142] (2-2-2) In the above-described embodiment, a clicking sensation occurred when the lever 16 reached the first reference position Pa and the second reference position Pb. However, the clicking sensation may occur anywhere. For example, when the lever 16 is moved in the second direction D2 and reaches the third position P3, when the lever 16 is moved in the first direction D1 and reaches the third position P3, when the lever 16 is moved in the second direction D2 and reaches the second position P2, and / or when the lever 16 is moved in the first direction D1 and reaches the second position P2, a clicking sensation may occur. Alternatively, a clicking sensation may occur at a position different from the second position P2, the third position P3, the first reference position Pa, and the second reference position Pb. The clicking sensation may occur at any position when moving between the second region R2 and the third region R3, or may occur at any position when moving between the first region R1 and the second region R2. In other words, a mechanism for generating a clicking sensation may be provided so that the user can recognize that the lever 16 has moved from the third region R3 to the second region R2, from the second region R2 to the first region R1, from the first region R1 to the second region R2, and / or from the second region R2 to the third region R3.

[0143] (2-2-3) The first control method and the second control method may each be different from the methods described in the above embodiment. In other words, the power working machine 1 may be provided with a mode different from the automatic transmission mode or a mode different from the manual transmission mode as an operation mode for rotating the motor 60.

[0144] (2-2-4) In the automatic transmission mode, the target rotational speed may be set in any manner according to the load. For example, contrary to the above embodiment, the target rotational speed may decrease as the load increases. Specifically, for example, when the magnitude of the load is less than the threshold value, the target rotational speed may be set to the second speed, and when the magnitude of the load is greater than or equal to the threshold value, the target rotational speed may be set to the first speed, which is lower than the second speed.

[0145] (2-2-5) The lever 16 and the trigger 11 may be provided near or on the left grip 9 so that they can be operated with the left hand. Alternatively, the lever 16 and the trigger 11 may be provided on separate grips from each other.

[0146] (2-2-6) The lever 16 may be in any form. Also, the second operation unit of the present disclosure may be in a form different from that of the lever. The second operation unit may be in the form of, for example, a slide switch, a dial, or the like.

[0147] The second operation unit of the present disclosure may be provided anywhere and in any manner in the operation unit 12. The second operation unit may be provided, for example, on the surface where the operation panel 13 is provided. The second operation unit may be movable in any direction and / or within any range.

[0148] (2-2-7) The motor 60 may be provided outside the control unit 3. The motor 60 may be housed in the drive unit 4, for example. (2-2-8) A plurality of functions of one component in the above embodiment may be realized by a plurality of components, or one function of one component may be realized by a plurality of components. Also, a plurality of functions of a plurality of components may be realized by one component, or one function realized by a plurality of components may be realized by one component. Also, a part of the configuration of the above embodiment may be omitted. Also, at least a part of the configuration of the above embodiment may be added to or replaced with the configuration of another of the above embodiments.

Description of Reference Numerals

[0149] 1... Electric power tool, 5... Cutting blade, 8... Right grip, 11... Trigger, 14a... Main power switch, 16... Lever, 20... Lever support member, 24... Biasing member, 27... Trigger switch, 40... Controller, 41... Control circuit, 41a... CPU, 41b... Memory, 51... Lever switch, 52... Shift signal output section, 60... Motor, 100... Battery pack, 100a... Battery, R1... First region, R2... Second region, R3... Third region, Y... Movement path.

Claims

1. A motor, a first operation unit configured to be manually driven and operated, a second operation unit configured to be manually moved within a movement range including a first region, a second region, and a third region, a control circuit, which rotates the motor in a first control method based on the first operation unit being driven and operated and the second operation unit being moved to the first region, which stops the motor based on the first operation unit not being driven and operated and / or the second operation unit being moved to the second region, which rotates the motor in a second control method different from the first control method based on the first operation unit being driven and operated and the second operation unit being moved to the third region, a control circuit configured as described above, and an electric working machine comprising the same.

2. The electric working machine according to Claim 1, wherein the second region is arranged so as to pass through the second region when the second operation unit is moved between the first region and the third region. Electric working machine.

3. The electric working machine according to Claim 1 or Claim 2, wherein the control circuit is configured to stop the motor when the second operation unit is moved directly from the first region to the third region or via the second region. Electric working machine.

4. The electric working machine according to Claim 3, wherein the control circuit is configured to rotate the motor in the second control method when the first operation unit is specifically operated after the motor is stopped in response to the second operation unit being moved from the first region to the third region, and the specific operation includes releasing the drive operation to the first operation unit and then driving the first operation unit again. Electric working machine.

5. The electric working machine according to Claim 1 or Claim 2, wherein the control circuit is configured to stop the motor when the second operation unit is moved directly from the third region to the first region or via the second region. Electric working machine.

6. The electric working machine according to Claim 5, The control circuit is configured to stop the motor in response to the second operation unit being moved from the third region to the first region, and then, when the first operation unit is specifically operated, rotate the motor in the first control method. The specific operation includes releasing the drive operation on the first operation unit and then driving the first operation unit again. Electric working machine.

7. The electric working machine according to claim 1 or claim 2, The first control method is setting a target rotation speed according to the position of the second operation unit in the first region, rotating the motor at the set target rotation speed, including Electric working machine.

8. The electric working machine according to claim 2, The first control method is setting a target rotation speed so as to increase as the second operation unit moves away from the second region in the first region, rotating the motor at the set target rotation speed, including Electric working machine.

9. The electric working machine according to claim 1 or claim 2, The second control method is setting a target rotation speed according to the magnitude of the load received by the motor when the motor is rotating, rotating the motor at the set target rotation speed, including Electric working machine.

10. The electric working machine according to claim 9, The second control method includes setting the target rotation speed to a first speed when the magnitude of the load is less than a threshold value, and setting the target rotation speed to a second speed greater than the first speed when the magnitude of the load is greater than or equal to the threshold value. Electric working machine.

11. The electric working machine according to claim 9, The second control method includes setting the target rotation speed to a first speed when the magnitude of the load is less than a threshold value, and setting the target rotation speed to a second speed smaller than the first speed when the magnitude of the load is greater than or equal to the threshold value. Electric working machine.

12. The electric working machine according to claim 1 or claim 2, comprising a click feeling generating unit configured to generate a click feeling on the second operation unit in response to the second operation unit moving within the moving range reaching a predetermined position within the moving range. Electric working machine.

13. The electric working machine according to claim 12, The click feeling generating unit is when the second operation unit moves from a region different from the third region to the third region, and / or When moving from the third region to a region different from the third region, configured to generate a clicking feeling on the second operation part, electric working machine.

14. The electric working machine according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the first operation part includes a trigger, the drive operation includes the trigger being moved by a certain length or more from the initial position, electric working machine.

15. The electric working machine according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the second operation part includes a lever whose tip is configured to be movable along an arc-shaped movement path, electric working machine.

16. The electric working machine according to claim 1 or claim 2, including a grip configured to be held by one hand of a user of the electric working machine, the first operation part and the second operation part are arranged to be operable simultaneously by the one hand holding the grip in the vicinity of the grip or on the grip, electric working machine.

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