Air compressor

Abstract

To provide an air compressor which can stop a function of the air compressor in a reliable manner when a user approaches the air compressor to transport the air compressor.SOLUTION: An air compressor according to one embodiment of the invention supplies compressed air to a pneumatic tool at the outside. The air compressor includes: a detection unit configured to detect a user approaching the air compressor; and a control unit which stops a function as the air compressor when the detection unit detects an approaching user.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an air compressor. [Background technology]

[0002] At construction sites and other work sites, cutting, nailing, screwing, etc. are performed using tools. Pneumatic tools that use compressed air as their driving energy are widely used. Drivers and nailers for driving fasteners such as staples, pins, screws, and nails are known. An air compressor supplies compressed air to these pneumatic tools.

[0003] Generally, an air compressor uses a motor whose rotational motion is transmitted through a crankshaft to the air in the cylinder. The air is converted into reciprocating motion of the piston, and the reciprocating motion of the piston causes the air to be sucked in through the intake valve of the cylinder. The compressed air in the cylinder is compressed into the cylinder. The gas is discharged from the exhaust valve of the tank through a pipe and stored in the tank. The compressed air stored in the tank can be increased or decreased in pressure by the user operating the pressure adjustment dial. By making such fine adjustments, the desired pressure can be achieved. The compressed air is supplied to an external pneumatic tool from a compressed air supply port.

[0004] Regarding such air compressors, for example, in consideration of safety during transportation, For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a mechanism for stopping various functions of the device. The air compressor is provided with an installation detection means for detecting whether the air compressor is installed or not installed on the surface. The air compressor is disclosed as follows: If this is detected, the air compressor function will be stopped. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-33969 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] However, in the air compressor described in the above patent document, the installation of the air compressor It detects the status and immediately detects when the user is near the air compressor for transportation. Therefore, when the user approaches the air compressor for transportation, However, there was a problem in that it was not possible to reliably shut down the system when the

[0007] Therefore, the present invention reliably connects the air compressor when the user is close to the device for transportation. The object of the present invention is to provide an air compressor that can be stopped as a function of the air conditioner. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] An air compressor according to one aspect of the present invention is an air compressor that supplies compressed air to an external pneumatic tool. A compressor, comprising: a detection unit that detects the proximity of a user; and a detection unit that detects the proximity of a user. and a control unit that stops the function as an air compressor. If the proximity of the air compressor is detected, it will stop functioning as an air compressor. When the user is close to the air compressor, it will stop functioning as an air compressor. This makes it possible to stop the operation, thereby improving safety for the user.

[0009] In the air compressor of the above aspect, the control unit controls the electric motor for generating compressed air. By stopping the operation, the function as an air compressor may be stopped. This makes it possible to easily and reliably stop the function as an air compressor.

[0010] In the air compressor of the above aspect, the control unit controls the electric motor for generating compressed air. By stopping the power supply to the compressor, the compressor may stop functioning as an air compressor. This makes it possible to stop the function as an air compressor easily and reliably. do.

[0011] The control unit further includes an electromagnetic valve provided at a supply port for supplying compressed air to the pneumatic tool. By controlling the solenoid valve to stop the supply of compressed air to the pneumatic tool, This will stop the function as an air compressor. As a result, the supply of compressed air to the pneumatic tool is stopped, improving user safety. do.

[0012] In the air compressor of the above aspect, the control unit detects that the detection unit has continuously detected the proximity for a predetermined period of time or more. When this is detected, the function as an air compressor may be stopped. The air compressor function will not stop if it detects proximity less than 100m, ensuring user safety. This improves user convenience while ensuring reliability.

[0013] The air compressor of the above aspect may be configured so that the predetermined time can be set arbitrarily. This allows for the detection of proximity required to shut down the air compressor. This allows the user to set the length of the interval, further improving convenience for the user.

[0014] In the air compressor of the above aspect, the control unit stops the function as an air compressor. If the detector does not detect proximity for a specified period of time, the air compressor This will cancel the function as an air compressor. This eliminates the need for an operation to cancel the setting, improving user convenience.

[0015] In the above-mentioned air compressor, the function as an air compressor is released. The control unit further includes a reception unit for receiving the release command, and when the reception unit receives the release command, the control unit This allows the user to disable the air conditioner function at a desired timing. It is possible to disable the compressor function, improving user convenience. do.

[0016] In the air compressor of the above aspect, when the reception unit receives the cancellation, the control unit Furthermore, if the detection unit does not detect proximity for a predetermined time or more consecutively after the cancellation is accepted, In this case, the function as an air compressor may be released. Even if the detection unit does not detect proximity for a predetermined period of time, As long as the compressor is turned off, it will not stop functioning as an air compressor, improving user safety. do.

[0017] In the air compressor of the above aspect, the control unit is If the air compressor is installed, it does not need to be stopped. Improve user convenience in situations where users are unlikely to carry an air compressor. This makes it possible to

[0018] In the air compressor of the above aspect, the detection unit detects proximity based on a change in capacitance. This makes it possible to easily detect the proximity of a user.

[0019] In the air compressor of the above aspect, the detection unit is located in a part electrically independent from the housing ground. This may reduce the occurrence of false detections because the proximity of the user is partially detected. This reduces the number of times the number of times the number of times is increased, improving user convenience.

[0020] In the air compressor of the above aspect, the detection unit may be provided on the grip or in the vicinity thereof. This makes it possible to detect proximity in areas where the user is likely to come into contact. Therefore, it is possible to more reliably stop the function as an air compressor.

[0021] In the air compressor of the above aspect, the detection unit is provided on or near the pressure adjustment dial. This makes it possible to detect proximity in areas where the user is likely to come into contact. This makes it possible to more reliably stop the air compressor function. do.

[0022] In the air compressor of the above aspect, the detection unit may be provided on the housing earth. This allows for wider proximity detection, making it more reliable as an air compressor. It is possible to stop the function of

[0023] In the air compressor of the above aspect, the detection unit is located in a tank that stores compressed air or in the tank. It may be provided at the compressed air supply port provided in the sensor. This allows for wide-area proximity detection. This allows the air compressor to be stopped more reliably. This becomes: [Effects of the Invention]

[0024] According to the air compressor of the present invention, the user can easily move close to the air compressor for transportation. When the air compressor is in use, it can be stopped without fail, This improves security against theft. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0025] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view showing an example of the external configuration of an air compressor 1 according to the present embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 is a block diagram showing an example of a functional configuration of an air compressor 1 according to the present embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of an operation flow of a function stop process performed by the air compressor 1 according to the present embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of an operation flow of processing for releasing a function stoppage by the air compressor 1 according to the present embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing another example of the operational flow of the process for releasing the function stoppage of the air compressor 1 according to the present embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of an air compressor 1′ according to a modified example of the present embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0026] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS An embodiment of an air compressor according to the present invention will now be described with reference to the drawings.

[0027] <Air compressor schematic configuration> FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an example of the external configuration of an air compressor 1 according to this embodiment. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the air compressor 1 according to this embodiment. The air compressor 1 includes a housing 50, grips 61 and 62, a motor 4, and a drive shaft 53. a compressor mechanism 3 for generating compressed air by being driven by the motor 4; a control unit 5 for controlling the motor 4; a tank 8 for storing compressed air generated by the compression mechanism 3; The system is equipped with a pressure sensor 12 for acquiring the pressure, an operation panel 30, etc. The air compressor 1 is equipped with a proximity sensor that detects the user's proximity to the air compressor 1. 40 are provided.

[0028] The air compressor 1 according to this embodiment is a pneumatic compressor connected to the air compressor 1. The pneumatic tool provides compressed air to the tool, for example, an air driver, staples, pins, bolts, etc. The user may use, for example, an air pusher to drive in fasteners such as nails. When transporting the air compressor 1, the grips 61 and 62 are held. It is configured so that it can be raised, etc.

[0029] Inside the tank section 2, a tank 8 is provided for storing compressed air to be supplied to the pneumatic tool. The tank 8 stores compressed air having a pressure of, for example, 4.4 MPa or less. The tank 8 contains an air chuck (compressor) for supplying compressed air to a pneumatic tool. The air compressor 1 according to this embodiment is provided with air supply ports 7 and 9. Air chuck (with purge mechanism) 9A for supplying compressed air and low pressure compressed air The purge mechanism is provided with an air chuck (with a purge mechanism) 9B for supplying air. When separating the air hose plug from the air chuck, purge the residual pressure from the air hose side (disconnection The air compressor 1 according to this embodiment is a mechanism for compressing high pressure air. Air chuck (without purge mechanism) 7A for supplying air and low-pressure compressed air and an air chuck (without purge mechanism) 7B for purging. , 9A, and 9B are configured to be detachable with hoses for supplying compressed air to pneumatic tools. The high-pressure air chucks 7A and 9A are equipped with pressure adjustment dials to operate the pressure adjustment valves. The low-pressure air chucks 7B and 9B are equipped with pressure adjusting valves. A pressure adjusting dial 10B is provided for adjusting the pressure. , pressure gauges 11A and 11B are provided to indicate the pressure of compressed air supplied to the pneumatic tool ( See Figure 1).

[0030] The pressure sensor 12 acquires the internal pressure of the tank 8 (see FIG. 2). For example, there are piezo-resistive sensors whose resistance changes depending on the air pressure, and sensors whose capacitance changes depending on the air pressure. The pressure sensor 12 is a pressure sensor that changes. A strain gauge type sensor may be used as the pressure sensor 12. The MPU 5F of the control unit 5 acquires information indicating the internal pressure of the tank 8 from the pressure sensor 12. Tank 8, pressure sensor 12, air chucks 7A, 7B, 9A, and 9B, pressure adjustment die The part including the shafts 10A and 10B is called the tank part 2.

[0031] The compression mechanism 3 is driven by a motor 4 to generate compressed air. The piston is driven by a motor 4. By compressing the air supplied into the cylinder through the intake valve by reciprocating the cylinder, The compressed air is supplied to the tank 8 via a connecting pipe 14. (See Figure 2.)

[0032] The motor 4 drives the compression mechanism 3. The motor 4 according to this embodiment drives the piston of the compression mechanism 3. The motor 4 generates the driving force to reciprocate the ton. The stator 4 has three-phase windings 16A, 16B, and 16C of U-phase, V-phase, and W-phase. The rotor 16 has three phase windings 16A, 16B, and 16C, and the rotor 17 has a permanent magnet. The rotating magnetic field formed by the flowing current causes the rotor 17 to rotate, A piston engages with a rotor connected to a rotary shaft and moves back and forth.

[0033] The control unit 5 controls, for example, the motor 4. Furthermore, the control unit 5 controls the external terminal device 20 and and information required for display on the operation panel 30. The control unit 5, for example, A switching circuit 5A, a converter circuit 5B, an inverter circuit 5C, and a current / voltage detection circuit 5 D, a communication circuit 5E, and an MPU 5F.

[0034] The power supply switching circuit 5A switches on / off the power supply from the AC power source AC to the converter circuit 5B. For example, the power supply switching circuit 5A switches the AC power supply from the converter circuit 5B, or may include a relay for switching the power supply to the The air compressor may be configured to include a switchable semiconductor element such as an FET. The power source of the sensor 1 is not limited to an AC power source, but may be a DC power source. The circuit 5A switches on / off the power supply from the DC power supply to the next stage circuit and the motor 4. It may be configured as follows.

[0035] The converter circuit 5B converts the AC power supply AC into a DC power supply having a predetermined voltage, and outputs the inverter The converter circuit 5B may have a known configuration. For example, a rectifier circuit including a diode for converting AC voltage into DC voltage and a A boost circuit equipped with a switching element for controlling the voltage of the DC voltage and a A smoothing circuit having a capacitor is provided to smooth the voltage.

[0036] The inverter circuit 5C switches the DC power supplied from the converter circuit 5B. The inverter circuit 5C supplies the current to three-phase windings 16A, 16B, and 16C of the motor 4. For example, a three-phase bridge can be connected between the power supply line and the ground line. IGBT (Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor) or FET (Field Effect Transistor) The MPU 5F is equipped with a switching element consisting of an inverter circuit 5 By controlling the switching element of C, PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) control is performed. It is possible to do this.

[0037] The current / voltage detection circuit 5D includes a current detection circuit (an example of a "load acquisition unit") and a voltage detection circuit The current detection circuit is connected to at least one of the three-phase windings 16A, 16B, and 16C. The current flowing through the windings 16A, 16B, and 16C of the motor 4 is detected. Since the current varies depending on the load on the motor 4, the current detection circuit detects information indicating the load on the motor 4. The MPU 5F functions as a load acquisition unit that acquires information on the load of the motor 4 from the current detection circuit. The information indicating the load is acquired, and based on this, the converter circuit 5B and the inverter circuit 5C are The MPU 5F can also transmit information indicating the load of the motor 4 via the communication line. The voltage detection circuit 5B transmits the voltage to the external terminal device 20 via the line 5E. The MPU5F detects the converted power supply voltage from the voltage detection circuit. Based on this, the converter circuit 5B and the inverter circuit 5C are controlled. Furthermore, the MPU 5F transmits information indicating the power supply voltage via the communication circuit 5E. , and transmits it to the external terminal device 20.

[0038] The communication circuit 5E transmits and receives information to and from the external terminal device 20 via wireless communication. Wired communication is, for example, Bluetooth (registered trademark) communication standard, wireless LAN communication standard, Zi It is preferable that the communication circuit 5E conforms to technical standards such as the gbee (registered trademark) communication standard. For example, information is transmitted and received between the external terminal device 20 and the device in accordance with the Bluetooth communication standard. It is equipped with an interface circuit for this purpose.

[0039] The MPU 5F includes a power supply switching circuit 5A, a converter circuit 5B, and an inverter circuit 5C. By controlling the above, the function of the air compressor 1 is controlled. F is a signal indicating that the proximity sensor 40 detects the user's proximity to the air compressor 1. Based on the detection result, a process is executed to stop the function of the air compressor 1. The control for stopping the function as compressor 1 will be described later.

[0040] The MPU5F controls the power supply switching circuit 5A to convert the AC power It is possible to switch on / off the power supply to the data circuit 5B. For example, the MPU 5F may be a relay or a switchable semiconductor included in the power supply switching circuit 5A. It is possible to control the on / off of elements (FET, etc.).

[0041] The MPU 5F controls the switching elements of the boost circuit of the converter circuit 5B. This makes it possible to perform PAM (Pulse Amplitude Modulation) control. In this state, the MPU5F operates in a mode that is preset according to the operating mode of the air compressor 1. Motor start pressure value (hereinafter referred to as "ON pressure value") and motor stop pressure value (hereinafter referred to as The value is read from the memory element of the MPU 5F. Alternatively, the current internal pressure of the tank 8 is calculated based on the internal pressure information received from the external terminal device 20. In comparison, when the internal pressure of the tank 8 is equal to or lower than the motor starting pressure value, control signal for driving the switching element of the converter circuit 5B (PAM signal and A PWM signal for driving the switching element of the inverter circuit 5C is generated and converted into a By supplying the motor circuit 5B and the inverter circuit 5C, the internal pressure of the tank 8 is The motor 4 is driven until the motor stop pressure value is reached.

[0042] The MPU 5F acquires internal pressure information indicating the internal pressure of the tank 8 from the pressure sensor 12, The load information indicating the load on the motor 4 is acquired from the current detection circuit, and the power supply voltage is detected from the voltage detection circuit. Based on this, the power supply switching circuit 5A and the converter circuit 5B and the inverter circuit 5C, a control signal is generated to control the motor Control 4.

[0043] The MPU 5F uses the communication circuit 5E to transmit internal pressure information, load information, and power supply voltage information. , and transmits it to the external terminal device 20. Furthermore, the MPU 5F transmits it to the external terminal device 20 via a communication line 5E, information for selecting an operation mode, information for selecting the rotation amount of the motor 4, The motor 4 can be controlled based on the information indicating the motor start pressure value and the motor stop pressure value. The MPU 5F may also control a predetermined display unit.

[0044] The external terminal device 20 controls the air compressor 1 from a location distant from the air compressor 1. The external terminal device 20 is a terminal device that can operate the external terminal device 20. A portable computer that has a display screen for displaying information, such as a smartphone, and is capable of wireless communication. This computer device is provided with applications for executing the various processes according to this embodiment. Installing and running an application program (computer program) The external terminal device 20 of this embodiment can be configured as follows. is a communication circuit for receiving information including the internal pressure information of the tank 8 from the air compressor 1. a display unit 20D including a display screen for displaying information including the internal pressure of the tank 8; B and an operation for inputting at least one of the motor start pressure value and the motor stop pressure value. The control circuit 20C, the communication circuit 20D, the display unit 20B and the operation unit 20C are connected to the control circuit 20A. The external terminal device 20 includes a processor and a memory element for executing various processes. PU20A (see FIG. 2).

[0045] The operation panel 30 receives operation inputs from the workers and also provides predetermined information to the workers. The information transmission means for informing the user is provided on, for example, the top surface of the housing 50 (see FIG. 1, etc.). The operation panel 30 includes a light guide member that guides light from an LED or the like provided in the housing 50 to the outside, The operation panel 30 may be provided with an operation switch or the like. For example, it may accept an operation to cancel the function stop as an air compressor. good.

[0046] <Air compressor operating mode> Air Compressor 1 has three modes: high power mode, AI mode, and quiet mode. The high power mode is configured to operate in the following modes: This operating mode is suitable for tasks that consume large amounts of air, such as screw tightening and nailer nailing. The AI ​​mode is a mode that drives motor 4 with a relatively large amount of power. The ON pressure value, OFF pressure value and motor 4 output are automatically changed according to the consumption of compressed air. By changing the drive, the motor 4 can be operated in an optimal and gentle manner. This mode is suitable for use with a Super Nailer, such as laying the foundation or for construction work. is a power-saving operating mode suitable for work that requires lower output than the high-output mode, such as interior work. The motor 4 is driven by a relatively small amount of power.

[0047] The above-mentioned operation modes can be selected by, for example, a By lighting up the light guide member corresponding to each operation mode, the operator can easily know which operation mode is being used. It may be possible to notify whether the

[0048] <Proximity sensor 40>

[0049] The proximity sensor 40 is an example of a detection unit, and detects the proximity of a user to the air compressor 1. The controller 5 detects the user's proximity and supplies a detection signal to the controller 5 (MPU 5F). The user touches the air compressor 1 or the user It may include approaching within a predetermined distance. The predetermined distance defining the proximity may be, for example, 50 cm. The predetermined distance is not limited to this, and may be arbitrarily determined by the configuration and settings of the proximity sensor 40. The proximity sensor 40 may be, for example, a few mm, a few cm, or several tens of cm. The proximity sensor 40 can quantitatively detect the degree of proximity (for example, the distance from the proximity sensor 40 to the user). In this case, the proximity sensor 40 may be configured as a distance measurement sensor.

[0050] The configuration and detection principle of the proximity sensor 40 are not particularly limited as long as it can detect the proximity of a user. For example, the proximity sensor 40 detects the user by detecting a change in capacitance when the user enters an electric field. The capacitance type proximity sensor 40 may be configured as a capacitance type sensor that detects For example, an oscillator circuit incorporating a detection electrode and a sensor for detecting changes in the oscillation frequency of the oscillator circuit When a user enters the detection area, the charge on the detection electrode increases, causing a This increases the capacitance and changes the oscillation frequency of the oscillator circuit. The proximity of a user is detected.

[0051] Further, for example, the proximity sensor 40 is an infrared detection sensor that detects infrared rays emitted by the user. The proximity sensor 40 as an infrared sensor may be configured as, for example, A light receiving element (infrared absorbing layer) that receives the infrared rays that are emitted, causing a temperature rise. The device may also be configured to include a temperature sensor that detects a change in the temperature of the element and converts the detected change into an electrical signal.

[0052] Also, for example, the proximity sensor 40 detects the user by receiving a predetermined light. The proximity sensor 40 as a photoelectric sensor may be, for example, It is equipped with a light-emitting unit that emits light such as visible light or infrared light, and a light-receiving unit that receives the light emitted by the light-emitting unit. The proximity sensor 40 may be, for example, a reflective photoelectric sensor. The light emitted by the light receiving unit is reflected by the user, and the light receiving unit receives the reflected light. The proximity sensor 40 may be, for example, a transmission type photoelectric sensor. The light receiving section, which constantly receives the light emitted by the light emitting section, may be configured to receive the light even when the light is blocked by a user. The user may be detected by detecting that the user is in a state where ...

[0053] Here, the position where the proximity sensor 40 is provided will be described with reference to FIG. The sensor 40 is, for example, a part of the air compressor 1 that is electrically isolated from the housing ground. This allows the user to control the entire air compressor 1 partially. Proximity detection reduces the occurrence of outages due to false detection, improving user experience. It is possible to prioritize and improve convenience. Here, the chassis ground is The grounding mechanism is made of metal and is provided on the air compressor 1, for example: The air compressor 1 may include a tank 8 and air chucks 7, 9, etc. stomach.

[0054] For example, the proximity sensor 40 is electrically independent from the ground of the housing. The proximity sensor 40 may be provided on or near the grips 61 and 62. At least a part of the surface (which may be a part that the user holds or a part that the user does not touch) ) or may be provided on the entire surface. The proximity sensor 40 is provided near the grips 61 and 62. In this case, the vicinity of the grip 61 or 62 is, for example, a portion of the grip 61 or 62 that the user can touch when the user holds the grip 61 or 62. It is a surface designed to face the body (hands, wrists, arms, etc.) within a specified distance. That's fine.

[0055] In addition, for example, the proximity sensor 40 is a part electrically independent from the housing earth, and The proximity sensor 40 may be provided on the dial 10A, 10B or in the vicinity thereof. The proximity sensor 40 may be provided on at least a part of or the entirety of the rollers 10A and 10B. When the pressure dials 10A and 10B are provided near the pressure dials 10A and 10B, the nearby portions may be, for example, When operating the pressure adjusting dials 10A and 10B, the user's body (hands, wrists, arms, etc.) is Surfaces designed to face each other within a certain distance (for example, the surface shown by reference numeral 50A in FIG. 1) ) may be at least a part of

[0056] The proximity sensor 40 may be provided, for example, on the housing ground of the air compressor 1. This increases the sensitivity of the proximity sensor 40 to the proximity of the user, making it possible to more reliably For example, the proximity sensor 40 may be The proximity sensor 40 may be provided in at least a part of or the entirety of the link 8. The proximity sensor may be provided on at least a part of or the entire air chuck 7, 9. 40 is not limited to the above-mentioned position and may be provided at any position on the air compressor 1. .

[0057] <Air compressor function stops> FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation flow of the function stop process by the air compressor 1 according to this embodiment. As described above, the MPU 5F is a diagram showing an example of a user-defined control When the proximity sensor 40 detects the proximity of the air compressor, the air compressor Executes control to stop functioning as 1.

[0058] (S101) First, the MPU 5F performs the following based on the detection signal supplied from the proximity sensor 40: It is determined whether the user is close to the air compressor 1. At this time, the MPU 5F indicates whether the user is touching the air compressor 1 (proximity sensor 40) or The MPU 5F may determine whether the proximity sensor 40 is in proximity. Based on the output signal, information quantitatively indicating the degree of proximity may be obtained.

[0059] (S102) If it is determined that the user is not in close proximity to the air compressor 1 (S 101; No), the MPU 5F resets the timer. Then, the process returns to step S1 Return to step 01. The threshold value of the detection signal of the proximity sensor 40 for determining proximity is It may be possible to arbitrarily set this in advance, taking into consideration user convenience, safety, and the like.

[0060] (S103) On the other hand, if it is determined that the user is close to the air compressor 1, (S101; Yes), the MPU 5F counts up the timer.

[0061] (S104) Next, the MPU 5F refers to the timer and determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed. Here, the predetermined time is the time required to stop the function of the air compressor 1. The time period during which the user's proximity to the air compressor 1 is continuously detected is set as the time period. The predetermined time is arbitrarily set in advance, taking into consideration the convenience and safety of the user. For example, it may be set to 5 seconds. The predetermined time may be set in units of, for example, several milliseconds, several seconds, several tens of seconds, or several minutes. If it is determined that the predetermined time has not elapsed (S104; No), the process returns to step S10. Return to 1.

[0062] (S105) If it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed (S104; Yes), the MPU 5F , executes a process to stop the function as the air compressor 1. The proximity sensor 40 continuously detects the user's proximity to the air compressor 1 for a predetermined period of time or more. If this is detected, the air compressor 1 stops functioning.

[0063] The process of stopping the function of the air compressor 1 is, for example, This may include a process of turning off the power supply switching circuit 5A to the converter circuit As a result, the power supply to 5B is stopped, and motor 4 cannot be driven (motor 4 is in a state where it is in a state where it is being driven). The process of stopping the function of the air compressor 1 is, for example, This may include a process of stopping the function of the converter circuit 5B. The supply of the DC power source having the predetermined voltage converted from the DC power source to the inverter circuit 5C is stopped. Therefore, the motor 4 cannot be driven (the motor 4 that is currently driving will stop). The process of stopping the function of the compressor 1 is, for example, to stop the function of the inverter circuit 5C. This may include a process of stopping the three-phase winding of the DC power supply from the converter circuit 5B. The supply to the lines 16A, 16B, and 16C is stopped by switching, and the motor 4 is driven. (The motor 4 that is currently being driven stops.) This is the end of the process.

[0064] For example, the MPU 5F is connected to an AC power source AC. Here, if the air compressor 1 is connected to the AC power supply AC, For example, the power plug of the air compressor 1 is a power plug for supplying AC power. In this case, the power plug may be A detection signal indicating whether or not the AC power supply AC is connected to the supply port may be supplied to the control unit 5. And, when the air compressor 1 is connected to the AC power supply, the MPU5F For example, the function as the air compressor 1 as defined in step S105 above. In particular, the MPU 5F is designed to operate when the air compressor 1 is powered by the AC power supply AC When the air conditioner is connected to the air conditioner, even if the proximity sensor 40 detects proximity, It is not necessary to stop the compressor 1 from functioning.

[0065] In addition, when the proximity sensor 40 is configured to be able to detect the degree of proximity, for example, the MPU 5F In this case, the type of processing to stop the function of the air compressor 1 is determined according to the degree of proximity. For example, the closer the user is to the proximity sensor 40, the more reliably the air conditioner is activated. The MPU 5F may give priority to a control that can stop the function as the processor 1. Based on the information, the power supply switching circuit 5A is turned off depending on the degree of proximity. The process of stopping the function of the inverter circuit 5B and the process of stopping the function of the inverter circuit 5C are performed. , may be selectively performed.

[0066] <Removing the air compressor function> FIG. 4 is an operational flow chart showing the process of canceling the function stoppage of the air compressor 1 according to this embodiment. In particular, in the process of FIG. 4, the function as an air compressor is stopped. The condition for canceling the function is that proximity is detected for a specified period of time or more continuously after the function is stopped. This process includes, for example, not issuing the M This is executed after the function as the air compressor 1 is stopped by PU5F.

[0067] (S201) First, the MPU 5F performs the following based on the detection signal supplied from the proximity sensor 40: It is determined whether the user is close to the air compressor 1. At this time, the MPU 5F indicates whether the user is touching the air compressor 1 (proximity sensor 40) or The MPU 5F may determine whether the proximity sensor 40 is in proximity. Based on the output signal, information quantitatively indicating the degree of proximity may be obtained.

[0068] (S202) If it is determined that the user is close to the air compressor 1 (S2 01; Yes), the MPU 5F resets the timer. Then, the process returns to step S2 Return to step 01. The threshold value of the detection signal of the proximity sensor 40 for determining proximity is It may be possible to arbitrarily set this in advance, taking into consideration user convenience, safety, and the like.

[0069] (S203) On the other hand, if it is determined that the user is not close to the air compressor 1, If so (S201; No), the MPU 5F counts up the timer.

[0070] (S204) Next, the MPU 5F refers to the timer and determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed. Here, the predetermined time is set to the time required to release the function of the air compressor 1. The time required for the user to not be detected in proximity to Air Compressor 1 is The predetermined time is set in advance in consideration of the convenience and safety of the user. It may be possible to set it arbitrarily, for example, to 5 seconds. The predetermined time is not limited to this, and may be, for example, several milliseconds, several seconds, several tens of seconds, several minutes, several tens of minutes, or several It may be set in units of time or the like.

[0071] (S205) If it is determined that the predetermined time has not elapsed (S204; No), the MPU 5F determines whether the operation to release the function stop of Air Compressor 1 has been accepted. The release operation is performed, for example, by pressing the operation panel 30 of the air compressor 1. It may be an operation by a user or an operation by an external terminal device (accepted via the communication circuit 5E). It may be a user operation on the device 20. The process of determining whether the operation to release the function suspension was accepted is not necessarily executed. good.

[0072] (S206) If it is determined in step S204 that the predetermined time has elapsed ( S204; Yes), or the cancellation operation is not accepted in the above-mentioned step S205. If it is determined that the air conditioner is in operation (S205; Yes), the MPU5F will operate as the air compressor 1. That is, the MPU 5F executes a process to cancel the function stop of the proximity sensor 40. If the user's proximity to the air compressor 1 is not detected for a predetermined time or more, Cancels the function stop as air compressor 1.

[0073] The process of canceling the function stop of the air compressor 1 is performed by, for example, the power supply switching circuit 5 If the power supply switching circuit 5A is turned off, the process may include turning on the power supply switching circuit 5A. As a result, the power supply from the power supply switching circuit 5A to the converter circuit 5B is released. Therefore, the motor 4 is ready to drive. The process of canceling the stoppage is, for example, when the function of the converter circuit 5B is stopped, This may include a process for restoring the function of the inverter circuit 5B. The supply of the DC power source having the predetermined voltage converted from the DC power source to the inverter circuit 5C is restored. Therefore, the motor 4 can be driven. For example, if the function of the inverter circuit 5C is stopped, the process of canceling the inverter circuit 5C is performed. This may include a process for restoring the function of the converter circuit 5B. The supply of DC power to the three-phase windings 16A, 16B, and 16C is restored by switching. Therefore, the motor 4 is ready to be driven. This completes the process.

[0074] FIG. 5 is an operational flow chart showing the process of canceling the function stoppage of the air compressor 1 according to this embodiment. 5 is a diagram showing another example of the function as an air compressor. The condition for canceling the suspension is that the specified time must be consecutively used after the cancellation of the suspension is accepted. This includes the case where proximity is not detected for a period of time longer than the above. Like 05, this is executed after the function as air compressor 1 is stopped by MPU5F. will be done.

[0075] (S301) First, the MPU5F is operated to release the function as the air compressor 1. The cancellation operation is performed, for example, when the air compressor 1 is enabled. The signal may be a user operation on the operation panel 30 (received via the communication circuit 5E) or The operation may be a user operation on the external terminal device 20 (received from the external terminal device 20). 1 is repeated until the operation is accepted (S301; No).

[0076] (S302) It is determined that the operation to cancel the function stop of Air Compressor 1 has been accepted. If the determination is affirmative (S301; Yes), the MPU 5F receives the detection signal supplied from the proximity sensor 40. Based on the signal, it is determined whether the user is close to the air compressor 1. At this time, the MPU 5F detects that the user has touched the air compressor 1 (proximity sensor 40). The MPU 5F may determine whether the sensor is in proximity to the sensor 4 or not. Based on the detection signal output by the device, information quantitatively indicating the degree of proximity may be obtained.

[0077] (S303) If it is determined that the user is close to the air compressor 1 (S3 02; Yes), the MPU 5F resets the timer. Then, the process returns to step S3 Return to step 02. The threshold value of the detection signal of the proximity sensor 40 for determining proximity is It may be possible to arbitrarily set this in advance, taking into consideration user convenience, safety, and the like.

[0078] (S304) On the other hand, if it is determined that the user is not close to the air compressor 1, If so (S302: No), the MPU 5F counts up the timer.

[0079] (S305) Next, the MPU 5F refers to the timer and determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed. Here, the predetermined time is set to the time required to release the function of the air compressor 1. The user's approach to Air Compressor 1 after the required shutdown clearance is accepted The predetermined time is the time during which no contact is detected consecutively. It may be possible to arbitrarily set the number in advance in consideration of convenience, safety, etc. For example, However, the predetermined time may be set to several milliseconds. The time may be set in units of seconds, several seconds, several tens of seconds, several minutes, several tens of minutes, several hours, etc.

[0080] (S306) If it is determined in step S305 that the predetermined time has elapsed ( S305; Yes), MPU5F cancels the function stop as air compressor 1. That is, the MPU 5F executes the process when the proximity sensor 40 receives the release of the function stop. If the user's proximity to the air compressor 1 is not detected for a predetermined period of time after the If this occurs, the air compressor 1 function is released.

[0081] The process of canceling the function stop of the air compressor 1 is performed by, for example, the power supply switching circuit 5 If the power supply switching circuit 5A is turned off, the process may include turning on the power supply switching circuit 5A. As a result, the power supply from the power supply switching circuit 5A to the converter circuit 5B is released. Therefore, the motor 4 is ready to drive. The process of canceling the stoppage is, for example, when the function of the converter circuit 5B is stopped, This may include a process for restoring the function of the inverter circuit 5B. The supply of the DC power source having the predetermined voltage converted from the DC power source to the inverter circuit 5C is restored. Therefore, the motor 4 can be driven. For example, if the function of the inverter circuit 5C is stopped, the process of canceling the inverter circuit 5C is performed. This may include a process for restoring the function of the converter circuit 5B. The supply of DC power to the three-phase windings 16A, 16B, and 16C is restored by switching. Therefore, the motor 4 is ready to be driven. This completes the process.

[0082] <Modification> An air compressor 1' according to a modified example of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of an air compressor 1′ according to a modified example of this embodiment. This is a diagram.

[0083] The air compressor 1' according to the modified example has solenoid valves 70A and 70B. The high-pressure air chucks 7A and 9A are provided with electromagnetic valves 70A, and the low The air chucks 7B and 9B are provided with solenoid valves 70B. 70B adjusts the flow rate of compressed air supplied to the pneumatic tool from each of the air chucks 7 and 9. The solenoid valves 70A and 70B are configured to be able to control, for example, the air chuck 7, 9. A plunger (iron piece) provided in the compressed air flow path and a position for opening the flow path. and a solenoid (electromagnet) configured to be able to move the plunger between the closing and closing positions. That's fine.

[0084] The solenoid valves 70A and 70B are operated in response to a control signal supplied from the MPU 5F, for example. It adjusts the flow rate of compressed air supplied to the pneumatic tool from the chucks 7 and 9. In particular, it adjusts the flow rate of compressed air supplied to the pneumatic tool from the MPU 5. F is a signal to the pneumatic tool under a predetermined condition based on the proximity detection result by the proximity sensor 40. It is possible to control the solenoid valves 70A and 70B to stop the supply of compressed air. When the supply of compressed air to the pneumatic tool is stopped, the function of the air compressor is lost. will stop.

[0085] In addition, in the air compressor 1', all of the air chucks 7A, 7B, 9A, and 9B It is not necessary to provide a solenoid valve, and the air chucks 7A, 7B, 9A, and 9B are partially The MPU 5F may be provided only for the execution of the above-mentioned step S105, for example. As a process for stopping the function as a compressor, the solenoid valves 70A and 70B are controlled. By doing so, the supply of compressed air to the pneumatic tool may be stopped. Other processes for stopping the compressor function (for example, turning off the power supply switching circuit 5A) a process of stopping the function of the converter circuit 5B, a process of stopping the function of the inverter circuit 5C, Alternatively, the solenoid valves 70A and 70B may be controlled in conjunction with the other processes (such as stopping the valves). Instead of the processing, the solenoid valves 70A and 70B may be controlled.

[0086] The above-described embodiment is an example of a preferred embodiment of the present invention, but is not intended to be limiting. Various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0087] 1, 1'...air compressor, 2...tank section, 3...compression mechanism, 4...motor, 5...control section , 5A...power supply switching circuit, 5B...converter circuit, 5C...inverter circuit, 5D...current / Voltage detection circuit, 5E...Communication circuit, 5F...MPU, 7, 7A, 7B, 9, 9A, 9B... A chuck, 8...tank, 10A, 10B...pressure adjustment dial, 11A, 11B...pressure gauge, 1 2...pressure sensor, 14...connecting pipe, 16...stator, 16A, 16B, 16C...three-phase Winding, 17... rotor, 20... external terminal device, 30... operation panel, 40... proximity sensor, 50 ...Housing, 61, 62...Grip, 70A, 70B...Solenoid valve

Claims

1. An air compressor that supplies compressed air to an external pneumatic tool, a detection unit that detects the proximity of a user; When the detection unit detects the proximity, a control unit that stops the function as an air compressor An air compressor comprising:

2. The control unit stops the operation of the electric motor for generating the compressed air.

2. The air compressor according to claim 1, wherein the air compressor stops functioning as an air compressor.

3. The control unit stops supplying power to an electric motor for generating the compressed air.

3. The air conditioner according to claim 1, wherein the function as an air compressor is stopped by the above. Pressa.

4. a solenoid valve provided at a supply port for supplying the compressed air to the pneumatic tool; The control unit controls the solenoid valve to stop the supply of the compressed air to the pneumatic tool. The air compressor function is stopped by controlling the air conditioner.

10. The air compressor according to claim 9 .

5. The control unit is configured to: The air conditioner according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the function as a compressor is stopped. Pressa.

6. 6. The air compressor according to claim 5, wherein the predetermined time can be set arbitrarily. sa.

7. The control unit is configured to: When the detection unit does not detect the proximity, the function as an air compressor is stopped.

7. An air compressor according to claim 1, wherein the air compressor is adapted to release the pressure applied to the air supply.

8. Further, a reception unit is provided for receiving a cancellation of the stop of the function as an air compressor, When the reception unit receives the cancellation, the control unit 8. The air compressor according to claim 1, wherein the function is released from suspension.

9. When the acceptance unit accepts the cancellation, the control unit further If the detection unit does not detect the proximity for a predetermined time or more consecutively after the The air compressor according to claim 8, wherein the function as an air compressor is released. 。

10. When the air compressor is connected to an AC power source, the control unit The air conditioner according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the air conditioner does not stop functioning as a heater. Yes.

11. 11. The method according to claim 1, wherein the detecting unit detects the proximity based on a change in capacitance.

10. The air compressor according to claim 9 .

12. The detecting section is provided in a portion electrically isolated from the housing ground.

12. An air compressor according to any one of claims 11 to 19.

13. The detection unit includes a grip configured to be grippable for transporting the air compressor.

13. The air compressor according to claim 12, wherein the air compressor is provided on or in the vicinity of the air compressor.

14. 14. The pressure adjusting device according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the detecting section is provided on or near the pressure adjusting dial. On-board air compressor.

15. The air conditioner according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the detection unit is provided on a housing earth. A compressor.

16. The detection unit detects whether the compressed air is stored in a tank or in a compressed air storage device provided in the tank.

16. The air compressor according to claim 15, wherein the air compressor is provided at an air supply port.

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