Technique for fixing circuit board inside optical display for field device

Abstract

To provide a technique for fixing a circuit board inside an optical display in a field device without using a screw.SOLUTION: A field device comprises an optical display. The optical display includes a container and a circuit board. The container (i) includes a closed end, a peripheral wall, and an open end, and (ii) is configured to be at least partially transmit light. The peripheral wall (i) surrounds an interior space of the container between the closed end and the open end, and (ii) includes a first protrusion on an inner peripheral surface thereof. The first protrusion (i) protrudes into the interior space, and (ii) is shorter than a circumferential length of the inner peripheral surface in a circumferential direction of the peripheral wall. The circuit board (i) has a first light source, and (ii) includes a first surface facing the closed end. The circuit board is press-fitted into the interior space in a state of pressing the first protrusion toward the inner peripheral surface.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 10A-10B

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE The present disclosure relates to field equipment. [Background technology]

[0002] The following Patent Document 1 discloses a brush cutter equipped with a display unit at the tip of the right grip that is held by the user. This display unit has a circuit board mounted with five light-emitting diodes inside. This circuit board is fixed inside the display unit with two screws. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 7129896 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] It is time-consuming to secure the circuit board to the inside of the display unit with two screws. Therefore, one aspect of the present disclosure aims to provide a technique for fixing a circuit board inside an optical indicator in a field device without using screws. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] In this disclosure, terms such as "first," "second," etc. are intended only to distinguish elements from one another and are not intended to limit the order or number of elements. Thus, a first element may be referred to as a second element, and similarly, a second element may be referred to as a first element. In addition, a first element may be included without a second element, and similarly, a second element may be included without a first element.

[0006] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a field instrument with an optical indicator. The optical indicator includes a container and a circuit board, the container (i) having a closed end, a peripheral wall, and an open end having an opening, and (ii) configured to be at least partially optically transparent.

[0007] The peripheral wall (i) surrounds the interior space of the container between the closed end and the open end, and (ii) has a first protrusion on its inner circumferential surface, which (i) protrudes into the interior space and (ii) has a length shorter than the circumferential length of the inner circumferential surface in the circumferential direction of the peripheral wall.

[0008] The circuit board (i) has a first light source and (ii) a first surface facing the closed end, and is press-fit into the interior space with the first protrusion pressing against the inner circumferential surface.

[0009] In a field device configured in this manner, the circuit board can be fixed inside the optical indicator without using screws. Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a method for securing a circuit board within an optical indicator in a field device.

[0010] The method includes providing an optical indicator container having (i) a closed end, a peripheral wall, and an open end, and (ii) configured to be at least partially optically transparent. The peripheral wall (i) surrounds an interior space of the container between the closed end and the open end, and (ii) includes a protrusion on its inner circumferential surface, the protrusion (i) protruding into the interior space and (ii) having a circumferential length in the circumferential direction of the peripheral wall that is shorter than the circumferential length of the inner circumferential surface.

[0011] The method further comprises pressing the circuit board into the interior space from the open end while pressing the protrusions toward the inner periphery with the circuit board. In this manner, the circuit board can be secured within the optical indicator of the field device without the use of screws. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1]1 is a perspective view of a field device in an exemplary embodiment; [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a circuit diagram showing a schematic electrical configuration of the field device. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an optical indicator in a field device. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the optical display in FIG. 3. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of an optical display. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a bottom view of the container with the filler material and circuit board removed. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the container with the filler material and circuit board removed. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is another perspective view of the container with the filler material and circuit board removed. [Figure 9A-9B] 10A and 10B are plan and bottom views of a circuit board fixed inside the container. [Figures 10A-10B] FIG. 10A shows the circuit board before it is press-fitted into the internal space of the container, and FIG. 10B shows the circuit board after it has been press-fitted into the internal space of the container. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a bottom view of a container according to a modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] 1. Overview of the embodiment Some embodiments may provide a field device (or outdoor device) comprising at least one of the following: ·Feature 1: Optical display; · Feature 2: The optical indicator has a container (or case or housing); Feature 3: The container has a closed end, a peripheral wall, and an open end having an opening; Feature 4: The container is configured to be at least partially light-transmitting; · Feature 5: The peripheral wall (i) encloses the interior space of the container between the closed end and the open end; Feature 6: The peripheral wall has a first protrusion on its inner peripheral surface; · Feature 7: The first protrusion protrudes into the internal space; Feature 8: The first protrusion is shorter than the circumferential length of the inner peripheral surface in the circumferential direction of the peripheral wall (or inner peripheral surface); Feature 9: The optical display includes a circuit board; Feature 10: The circuit board has a first surface; Feature 11: The first surface has a first light source; Feature 12: The first surface faces the closed end; and Feature 13: The circuit board is press-fitted into the internal space with the first protrusion pressed against the inner circumferential surface.

[0014] In a field device having at least Features 1 to 13 (or at least Features 1 to 9, 13), a circuit board can be fixed inside an optical indicator without using screws. In addition, there is no need to ensure space inside the optical indicator to accommodate screws, or to design the optical indicator so that the screws are not visible through the container, which increases the degree of freedom in designing the optical indicator. Furthermore, there is no need to provide extra space on the circuit board for inserting screws, which allows for the miniaturization of the circuit board, and ultimately promotes the miniaturization of the optical indicator.

[0015] In addition, since the first protrusion is shorter than the circumferential length of the inner circumferential surface in the circumferential direction of the peripheral wall, the force required to press the circuit board into the internal space can be reduced when assembling the optical display.

[0016] Some embodiments may include, in addition to or instead of at least one of features 1-13, the following: Feature 14: The inner peripheral surface of the peripheral wall (i) has a seat portion that protrudes into the internal space and (ii) contacts the first surface of the circuit board.

[0017] In a field device having at least the features 1 to 14 (or at least the features 1 to 9, 13, and 14), the circuit board can be stably fixed by the seat. Some embodiments may include, in addition to or instead of at least one of features 1-14: · Feature 15: The seating area encloses the interior space.

[0018] In a field device having at least the features 1 to 15 (or at least the features 1 to 9, 13 to 15), the circuit board can be more stably fixed by such a seating portion.

[0019] Some embodiments may include at least one of the following in addition to or instead of at least one of features 1-15: Feature 16: The seating portion includes a recess surrounding the first protrusion; and Feature 17: The first protrusion extends from the recess toward the open end.

[0020] In a field device having at least Features 1 to 14, 16, and 17 (or at least Features 1 to 9, 13, and 16), when the circuit board is press-fitted into the internal space, friction between the first protrusion and the circuit board can cause a portion of the first protrusion or the circuit board to peel off, and the peeled portion can be accommodated in the recess. This can prevent the peeled portion from scattering inside the optical display and causing malfunctions in the optical display.

[0021] Some embodiments may include, in addition to or instead of at least one of features 1-17: Feature 18: The first protrusion extends toward the open end without reaching the open end.

[0022] In a field device having at least features 1 to 14 and 18 (or at least features 1 to 9, 13 and 18), friction between the first protrusion and the circuit board does not occur at the open end when the circuit board is pressed into the internal space, so the force required to press the circuit board into the internal space can be reduced.

[0023] Some embodiments may include, in addition to or instead of at least one of features 1-18: Feature 19: The first protrusion extends beyond the thickness of the circuit board toward the open end.

[0024] In a field device including at least Features 1 to 14, 18, and 19 (or at least Features 1 to 9, 13, 18, and 19), the circuit board can be stably fixed in the interior space by the first protrusion extending beyond the thickness of the circuit board.

[0025] Some embodiments may include at least one of the following in addition to or instead of at least one of features 1-19: Feature 20: The inner circumferential surface of the peripheral wall (i) protrudes into the internal space and (ii) has a second protrusion that is shorter than the circumferential length of the inner circumferential surface in the circumferential direction of the peripheral wall; and Feature 21: The circuit board has a notch that engages with the second protrusion.

[0026] In a field device having at least the features 1 to 14, 20, and 21 (or at least the features 1 to 9, 13, 20, and 21), the circuit board can be appropriately positioned within the interior space.

[0027] Some embodiments may include at least one of the following in addition to or instead of at least one of features 1-21: Feature 22: The opening has a planar shape that is symmetrical with respect to a predetermined axis; and Feature 23: When viewed from the opening, (i) the first protrusion and the second protrusion face each other, (ii) the first protrusion is on a predetermined axis, and (iii) the second protrusion deviates from the predetermined axis.

[0028] In a field device having at least the features 1 to 14 and 20 to 23 (or at least the features 1 to 9, 13 and 20 to 23), it is possible to prevent the circuit board from being press-fitted into the internal space in an improper orientation.

[0029] Examples of the planar shape of the opening include a rectangle, a square, a circle, and an ellipse. Some embodiments may include at least one of the following in addition to or instead of at least one of features 1-23: Feature 24: When viewed from the opening, (i) the first protrusion and the second protrusion face each other, (ii) the first protrusion deviates from the predetermined axis by a first distance, and (iii) the second protrusion deviates from the predetermined axis by a second distance; and · Feature 25: The first distance is different from the second distance.

[0030] In a field device having at least the features 1 to 14, 20 to 22, 24, and 25 (or at least the features 1 to 9, 13, 20 to 22, 24, and 25), it is possible to prevent the circuit board from being press-fitted into the internal space in an improper orientation.

[0031] Some embodiments may include at least one of the following in addition to or instead of at least one of features 1-25: Feature 26: The first protrusion projects into the interior space by a first length; Feature 27: The second protrusion protrudes into the interior space by a second length; and · Feature 28: The second length is greater than the first length.

[0032] In a field device having at least the features 1 to 14, 20, 21, 26 to 28 (or at least the features 1 to 9, 13, 20, 21, 26 to 28), the circuit board can be appropriately positioned and pressed into the internal space with a small force.

[0033] Some embodiments may include at least one of the following in addition to or instead of at least one of features 1-28: Feature 29: The circuit board has a first outer edge portion contacting the first protrusion; Feature 30: The circuit board has a second outer edge opposite the first outer edge; and Feature 31: The first outer edge and the second outer edge are router-processed.

[0034] In a field device having at least features 1 to 14, 29 to 31 (or at least features 1 to 9, 13, 29 to 31), the first outer edge and the second outer edge are positioned at precise positions, and thus the circuit board can be press-fitted into the internal space at a precise position.

[0035] Some embodiments may include at least one of the following in addition to or instead of at least one of features 1-31: Feature 32: The first surface of the circuit board has a second light source in addition to the first light source; Feature 33: The container includes a first display configured to be illuminated by a first light source; and Feature 34: The container includes a second display portion configured to be illuminated by a second light source.

[0036] A field device having at least the features 1 to 14 and 32 to 34 can display two types of information via the first display section and the second display section. Examples of the first and second light sources mentioned above include light emitting diodes (LEDs), organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs), and light bulbs.

[0037] Some embodiments may include, in addition to or instead of at least one of features 1-34: Feature 35: The container (i) divides an interior space into a first subspace and a second subspace, and (ii) includes an interior wall configured to block light between the first subspace and the second subspace; Feature 36: The first subspace corresponds to the first display unit; and Feature 37: The second subspace corresponds to the second display unit.

[0038] In a field device having at least features 1 to 14 and 32 to 37, the lighting of the first display unit by the second light source is suppressed, and the lighting of the second display unit by the first light source can also be suppressed.

[0039] Some embodiments may include, in addition to or instead of at least one of features 1-37, the following: Feature 38: The inner wall has an end portion that contacts the first surface of the circuit board between the first light source and the second light source.

[0040] In a field device having at least Features 1 to 14 and 32 to 38, light can be reliably prevented from propagating between the first and second subspaces, which reliably prevents the first indicator from being illuminated by the second light source, and also reliably prevents the second indicator from being illuminated by the first light source.

[0041] Some embodiments may include at least one of the following in addition to or instead of at least one of features 1-38: Feature 39: The container includes a first layer (i) covering the first light source and (ii) configured to diffuse light emitted from the first light source; and Feature 40: The container includes a second layer (i) covering the first layer and (ii) configured to partially transmit light received from the first light source through the first layer.

[0042] In a field device having at least Features 1 to 14, 39, and 40, light from a first light source is diffused by the first layer, and the diffused light is partially transmitted by the second layer. As a result, the lit first light source is less visible from outside the container, thereby improving the visibility of information optically displayed by the optical indicator. The second layer may include letters, symbols, and / or graphics at a location where light from the first light source transmits. In this case, when the first light source is lit, the letters, symbols, and / or graphics may be displayed on the container as if they were floating above the container.

[0043] Some embodiments may include, in addition to or instead of at least one of features 1-40: Feature 41: The closed end is configured to be at least partially light transmissive.

[0044] In a field device having at least Features 1 to 14 and 41, at least a portion of the closed end may be illuminated by the first light source. Some embodiments may include at least one of the following in addition to or instead of at least one of features 1-41: Feature 42: The circuit board has a second surface opposite the first surface; and Feature 43: The optical display includes a filler between the second surface and the open end.

[0045] In a field device having at least the features 1 to 14, 42, and 43, the circuit board can be more firmly fixed inside the optical display. The filler may include an adhesive and / or a resin, examples of which include molding resins such as thermosetting resins.

[0046] Some embodiments may include, in addition to or instead of at least one of features 1-43: · Feature 44: The open end is wider than the closed end.

[0047] In a field device having at least Features 1 to 14 and 44 (or at least Features 1 to 9, 13 and 44), when the closed end is exposed from a part of the field device, the wide open end is engaged with the part of the field device, thereby preventing the optical indicator from falling off from the field device.

[0048] Some embodiments may include, in addition to or instead of at least one of features 1-44: Feature 45: The container has, at least in part, a three-dimensional shape of a polyhedron, a cone, a frustum, or a cylinder.

[0049] Some embodiments may include, in addition to or instead of at least one of features 1-45: Feature 46: The container includes resin or glass.

[0050] Examples of resins include polycarbonates. Some embodiments may include at least one of the following in addition to or instead of at least one of features 1-46: Feature 47: A gripping portion configured to be gripped by a user of the field equipment; and Feature 48: The grip portion is provided with an optical indicator.

[0051] In a field device that includes at least features 1-14, 47, and 48 (or at least features 1-9, 13, 47, and 48), a user can easily view the optical indicator while using the field device.

[0052] Some embodiments may include at least one of the following in addition to or instead of at least one of features 1-48: Feature 49: An attachment configured to removably mount a battery pack; and Feature 50: The circuit board is configured to (i) receive power from a battery pack attached to the attachment, and (ii) supply the received power to the first light source.

[0053] In field devices having at least features 1-14, 49, and 50 (or at least features 1-9, 13, 49, and 50), the optical indicators may be illuminated by a replaceable battery pack.

[0054] Some embodiments may include, in addition to or instead of at least one of features 1-50, the following: · Feature 51: A control circuit configured to drive the first light source in relation to a state of the field device.

[0055] In a field device having at least the features 1 to 14 and 51 (or at least the features 1 to 9, 13 and 51), an optical indicator can be illuminated depending on the state of the field device.

[0056] In some embodiments, the control circuitry may be integrated into a single electronic unit or a single electronic device or a single circuit board. In some embodiments, 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 on or within the field device.

[0057] In some embodiments, the control circuitry may comprise a microcomputer (or microcontroller or microprocessor), hard-wired logic, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), an application specific general purpose product (ASSP), a programmable logic device (e.g., a field programmable gate array (FPGA)), discrete electronic components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0058] An embodiment may provide a method comprising at least one of the following: · Feature 52: Providing an optical indicator container; · Feature 53: The container has a closed end, a peripheral wall, and an open end; · Feature 54: The container is configured to be at least partially light transmissive; Feature 55: The peripheral wall encloses an interior space of the container between the closed end and the open end; Feature 56: The peripheral wall includes a protrusion on its inner peripheral surface; · Feature 57: The projection projects into the interior space; Feature 58: The protrusion is shorter in the circumferential direction of the peripheral wall than the circumferential length of the inner peripheral surface; and Feature 59: The circuit board is pressed into the internal space from the open end while pressing the protrusions toward the inner surface of the circuit board.

[0059] According to a method including at least Features 52 to 59, a circuit board can be fixed inside an optical display without using screws. Furthermore, since the protrusion is shorter than the circumferential length of the inner circumferential surface in the circumferential direction of the peripheral wall, the circuit board can be press-fit into the internal space with less force.

[0060] Examples of the above-mentioned on-site equipment include equipment configured to be used at work sites such as DIY, manufacturing, gardening, and construction sites, specifically, power tools for masonry, metalworking, and woodworking, power tools for gardening, power tools for preparing the work site, work lights, radios, battery-powered wheelbarrows, electric coolers and warmers, battery packs, and chargers. Examples of the above-mentioned power tools include electric blowers, electric hammers, electric hammer drills, electric drills, electric screwdrivers, electric wrenches, electric grinders, electric circular saws, electric reciprocating saws, electric jigsaws, electric cutters, electric chainsaws, electric planers, electric nail guns (including tack guns), electric hedge trimmers, electric lawn mowers, electric lawn clippers, electric grass trimmers, electric cleaners, electric sprayers, and electric sprayers.

[0061] In some embodiments, the above features 1 to 59 may be combined in any manner. In some embodiments, any of the above features 1-59 may be omitted. 2. Specific Exemplary Embodiments A particular exemplary embodiment is described below, which provides a field device 1 in the form of a powered grass trimmer. However, such a field device 1 is merely an example, and the present disclosure may be applied to all forms of field device. 2-1. Overall structure of field equipment As shown in Fig. 1, the field device 1 includes a main pipe 2. In this embodiment, the main pipe 2 is long and hollow.

[0062] The field equipment 1 includes a motor housing 3 at the front end of the main pipe 2. The motor housing 3 houses therein a motor 31 (see FIG. 2) configured to rotate and drive a cutting blade 4. The cutting blade 4 is configured to rotate and cut grass, small trees, etc. The cutting blade 4 is selected from a metal blade 4a or a nylon cord cutter 4b.

[0063] The field device 1 is provided with a controller 5 at the rear end of the main pipe 2. The controller 5 is provided with an attachment 6 at its rear end. A battery pack 7 is detachably mounted on the attachment 6.

[0064] The field device 1 has a handle 8 near the center in the longitudinal direction of the main pipe 2. In this embodiment, the handle 8 intersects with the main pipe 2 and is formed in a U-shape.

[0065] The handle 8 has a left grip portion 81 at its left end portion. The left grip portion 81 is configured to be held by the left hand of the user of the field device 1. The handle 8 has a right grip portion 82 at its right end portion. The right grip portion 82 is configured to be held by the user's right hand.

[0066] The right grip portion 82 has a trigger 9 on its front surface. The trigger 9 is configured to be pulled by the fingers of the user's right hand. The right grip portion 82 has an optical display 10 on its tip. The optical display 10 is configured to optically display information related to the status of the field device 1. In this embodiment, the optical display 10 is oriented in a direction that allows the user to easily recognize the optical display on the optical display 10 while operating the field device 1.

[0067] The right grip portion 82 further includes an operation panel 11 below the optical display 10 . 2-2. Electrical configuration of field equipment As shown in FIG. 2, the field device 1 includes a trigger switch 91 configured to output a trigger signal in response to the trigger 9 being pulled.

[0068] The operation panel 11 includes a power button 201 that is pressed by a user to turn on or off the field device 1. The power button 201 is configured to output a power command signal in response to the power button 201 being pressed.

[0069] The operation panel 11 is provided with a rotation direction switching button 202 that is pressed by the user to switch the rotation direction of the cutting blade 4 from the forward direction to the reverse direction or from the reverse direction to the forward direction. The rotation direction switching button 202 is configured to output a rotation direction switching signal in response to the rotation direction switching button 202 being pressed.

[0070] The optical display 10 includes first to sixth light sources 101 to 106. In this embodiment, each of the first to sixth light sources 101 to 106 is an LED. In another embodiment, at least one of the first to sixth light sources 101 to 106 may be an OLED or a light bulb.

[0071] The controller 5 includes a control circuit 51. The control circuit 51 is configured to operate by receiving DC power from a battery pack 7 attached to the attachment 6.

[0072] More specifically, the control circuit 51 is configured to start or stop its operation in response to a power command signal. The control circuit 51 is also configured to receive a trigger signal, a rotation direction switching signal, a rotation position signal, and a current measurement signal, and to output a motor control signal. The motor control signal indicates the rotation speed and rotation direction of the motor 31. The rotation position signal indicates the rotation position of a rotor (not shown) of the motor 31, and is supplied from the motor 31 to the control circuit 51. The current measurement signal indicates the magnitude of the current flowing through the motor 31.

[0073] The control circuit 51 is further configured to monitor the state of the field device 1 (for example, the magnitude of the voltage of the battery pack 7, the magnitude of the current flowing through the motor 31), and drive the first to sixth light sources 101 to 106 based on the state of the field device 1. The first to sixth light sources 101 to 106 are configured to be illuminated by currents individually supplied from the control circuit 51.

[0074] In this embodiment, the control circuit 51 includes a microcomputer (not shown). In another embodiment, the control circuit 51 may include an additional microcomputer. In yet another embodiment, the control circuit 51 may include, in addition to or instead of a microcomputer, a logic circuit (or a wired logic connection) including two or more electronic components. In yet another embodiment, the control circuit 51 may include, in addition to or instead of a microcomputer, an ASIC and / or an ASSP. In yet another embodiment, the control circuit 51 may include, in addition to or instead of a microcomputer, a programmable logic device on which a reconfigurable logic circuit can be configured. Examples of programmable logic devices include FPGAs.

[0075] The controller 5 includes a drive circuit 52. The drive circuit 52 is configured to (i) receive the above-described motor control signal from the control circuit 51, and (ii) drive the motor 31 in accordance with the received motor control signal. The motor 31 receives DC power from the battery pack 7 via the drive circuit 52 and rotates.

[0076] The drive circuit 52 is further configured to measure the magnitude of the current flowing through the motor 31 and output the above-mentioned current measurement signal to the control circuit 51. 2-3.Details of the optical display The terms "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," and "right" used in the following description are used merely to facilitate easy understanding of the structure of the optical display 10, and are not intended to limit the orientation of the optical display 10. The optical display 10 can be positioned in any orientation. 2-3-1. Overall structure of optical display 3, the optical display 10 includes a container 110. In this embodiment, the container 110 is a resin container configured to transmit light. In another embodiment, the container 110 may be a glass container configured to transmit light.

[0077] The container 110 has a polyhedral three-dimensional shape. More specifically, the container 110 has an upper portion 111 having a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape. The upper portion 111 has a first upper surface 111a that closes its upper end. The first upper surface 111a has a rectangular planar shape with four rounded corners. The upper portion 111 further has a first peripheral wall 111b that extends along the outer periphery of the first upper surface 111a and surrounds the internal space of the upper portion 111.

[0078] The container 110 further includes a base 112 extending forward, backward, leftward, rightward, and downward from the upper portion 111. The base 112 includes a second upper surface 112a having an inclined portion 112b on each of its front and rear sides (only the inclined portion 112b on the front side is shown in FIG. 3). The base 112 further includes a second peripheral wall 112c extending along the outer periphery of the second upper surface 112a and enclosing the interior space of the base 112.

[0079] As shown in FIG. 4, the optical display 10 includes a circuit board 120 inside a container 110. The circuit board 120 includes a first surface 120a facing the first upper surface 111a. The first surface 120a includes the first to sixth light sources 101 to 106 described above. In this embodiment, the first to third light sources 101 to 103 are arranged in a line from front to rear on the left side region of the first surface 120a. The fourth to sixth light sources 104 to 106 are arranged in a line from front to rear on the right side region of the first surface 120a.

[0080] The container 110 is provided with first to sixth display units 113a to 113f corresponding to the first to sixth light sources 101 to 106, respectively. The first to sixth display units 113a to 113f house the first to sixth light sources 101 to 106, respectively, and are configured to be lit by the first to sixth light sources 101 to 106, respectively.

[0081] The circuit board 120 has a second surface 120b opposite to the first surface 120a. The optical display 10 has a filler 130 that seals the container 110 under the circuit board 120. In this embodiment, the filler 130 is an adhesive, but is not limited to an adhesive. In another embodiment, the filler 130 may be a molding resin such as a thermosetting resin.

[0082] 5, each of the first to sixth display units 113a to 113f includes a first layer 114 covering a corresponding one of the first to sixth light sources 101 to 106. The first layer 114 is configured to diffuse the light emitted from the corresponding one of the first to sixth light sources 101 to 106.

[0083] Each of the first to sixth display units 113a to 113f further includes a second layer 115 covering the first layer 114. The second layer 115 is configured to partially transmit light received from a corresponding one of the first to sixth light sources 101 to 106 through the first layer 114. More specifically, the second layer 115 has a hole 115a at an upper portion thereof, and is configured to transmit light through the hole 115a. The hole 115a has a planar shape representing a character, symbol, and / or graphic. In this embodiment, the hole 115a is filled with the first layer 114. In another embodiment, the hole 115a may be a void.

[0084] The optical display 10 is provided with a plurality of lead wires 120c for supplying current from the control circuit 51 to the first to sixth light sources 101 to 106 (only one lead wire 120c is shown in FIG. 5). The plurality of lead wires 120c are electrically connected to the first to sixth light sources 101 to 106 via the circuit board 120. The plurality of lead wires 120c are drawn out from the second surface 120b of the circuit board 120 to the outside of the optical display 10 via the filler material 130. 2-3-2.Details of the container structure 6 to 8, when the container 110 is viewed from below, the base 112 of the container 110 has an opening 112e for accommodating the circuit board 120 and the filler 130. The opening 112e has a generally rectangular planar shape that is symmetrical with respect to a first imaginary axis C1. The first imaginary axis C1 passes through the center of the left partial peripheral wall of the second peripheral wall 112c and the center of the right partial peripheral wall of the second peripheral wall 112c.

[0085] The container 110 includes a seat 117 that (i) protrudes from the inner peripheral surface of the second peripheral wall 112c into the interior space of the container 110 and (ii) is configured to contact the first surface 120a of the circuit board 120. The seat 117 is located on the back side of the second upper surface 112a of the base 112 and surrounds the interior space of the container 110.

[0086] The container 110 has a first protrusion (or rib) 118 at the center of the left partial peripheral wall of the second peripheral wall 112c, i.e., on a first imaginary axis C1. The first protrusion 118 protrudes a first length L1 from the inner peripheral surface of the second peripheral wall 112c into the internal space. The first protrusion 118 has a length W1 (i.e., a first width) that is shorter than the length L4 of the inner peripheral surface of the left partial peripheral wall of the second peripheral wall 112c. The seat 117 has a recess 117a that surrounds the first protrusion 118.

[0087] In this embodiment, the first protrusion 118 extends from the recess 117a toward the open end, beyond the thickness of the circuit board 120, without reaching the open end of the base 112. In another embodiment, the first protrusion 118 may extend toward the open end without exceeding the thickness of the circuit board 120. In yet another embodiment, the first protrusion 118 may reach the open end of the base 112.

[0088] The container 110 has a second protrusion (or rib) 119 on the right partial peripheral wall of the second peripheral wall 112c. The second protrusion 119 faces the first protrusion 118 and deviates forward from the first imaginary axis C1. The second protrusion 119 protrudes from the inner peripheral surface of the second peripheral wall 112c into the internal space by a second length L2. The second length L2 is greater than the first length L1. The second protrusion 119 has a length (i.e., a second width) W2 that is shorter than the fourth length L4 of the inner peripheral surface of the right partial peripheral wall of the second peripheral wall 112c. The second width W2 is greater than the first width W1.

[0089] In this embodiment, the second protrusion 119 extends from the seat 117 toward the open end, beyond the thickness of the circuit board 120, without reaching the open end of the base 112. In another embodiment, the second protrusion 119 may extend toward the open end without exceeding the thickness of the circuit board 120. In yet another embodiment, the second protrusion 119 may reach the open end of the base 112.

[0090] The container 110 includes an inner wall 116 that divides the internal space surrounded by the first peripheral wall 111b of the upper portion 111 into first to sixth display units 113a to 113f and blocks light between the first to sixth display units 113a to 113f. The lower end of the inner wall 116 is located at the same height as the seating portion 117 and contacts the first surface 120a of the circuit board 120. 2-3-3.Details of the circuit board structure 9A and 9B, the circuit board 120 has a substantially rectangular planar shape that is line-symmetric with respect to a second imaginary axis C2. The second imaginary axis C2 passes through the center of the left outer edge of the circuit board 120 and the center of the right outer edge of the circuit board 120. When the circuit board 120 housed in the container 110 is viewed from the opening 112e, the second imaginary axis C2 substantially coincides with the first imaginary axis C1.

[0091] Each of the left and right outer edges of the circuit board 120 has a sixth length L6 that is slightly shorter than the fourth length L4 of each of the inner circumferential surfaces of the left and right partial peripheral walls of the second peripheral wall 112c.

[0092] Each of the front and rear outer edges of the circuit board 120 has a fifth length L5 that is slightly longer than the third length L3 in Fig. 6. The third length L3 corresponds to the length of the inner circumferential surface of the front partial circumferential wall of the second circumferential wall 112c minus the first length L1 of the first protrusion 118.

[0093] The circuit board 120 has a notch 120d on its right outer edge, which deviates forward from the second imaginary axis C2. At least the left outer edge, the right outer edge, and the notch 120d of the circuit board 120 are processed by a router. 2-3-4. Optical display assembly process When assembling the optical display 10, as shown in FIG. 10A, the circuit board 120 is inserted obliquely into the opening 112e of the container 110, and the notch 120d of the circuit board 120 engages with the second protrusion 119. Next, as shown in FIG. 10B, the circuit board 120 is lightly press-fitted (lightly press-fitted) into the interior space of the container 110 with a small force, using the right outer edge of the circuit board 120 as a fulcrum, so that the left outer edge of the circuit board 120 presses the first protrusion 118 toward the inner circumferential surface of the second peripheral wall 112c. After the circuit board 120 has been pressed into place, a paste-like filler 130 is applied to the opening 112e with multiple lead wires 120c (not shown) drawn out of the opening 112e. When the filler 130 hardens, the opening 112e of the container 110 is sealed with the filler 130, completing the assembly of the optical display 10. 2-4. Technical Effects of the Embodiments In the field device 1 configured as described above, the circuit board 120 can be fixed inside the optical display 10 without using screws. In addition, there is no need to ensure a space inside the optical display 10 to accommodate screws, or to design the optical display 10 so that the screws are not visible through the container 110, which increases the degree of freedom in designing the optical display 10. Furthermore, there is no need to provide an extra area on the circuit board 120 for inserting screws, which allows the circuit board 120 to be made smaller, which in turn can facilitate the miniaturization of the optical display 10.

[0094] Furthermore, in the field device 1, the circuit board 120 can be stably fixed inside the optical display 10 by the seating portion 117. Furthermore, in the field device 1, when the circuit board 120 is press-fitted into the internal space of the container 110, friction between the first protrusion 118 and the circuit board 120 can cause a portion of the first protrusion 118 or the circuit board 120 to peel off, and the peeled portion can be accommodated in the recess 117a. This can prevent the peeled portion from scattering inside the optical display 10 and causing a malfunction in the optical display 10.

[0095] Furthermore, in the field device 1, the first protrusion 118 does not reach the open end of the container 110, so the force required to press-fit the circuit board 120 into the internal space of the container 110 can be reduced.

[0096] Furthermore, in the field device 1, the circuit board 120 can be stably fixed in the internal space of the container 110 by the first protrusion 118 extending beyond the thickness of the circuit board 120.

[0097] Furthermore, in the field device 1, the circuit board 120 can be appropriately positioned within the internal space of the container 110 by the second protrusion 119 engaging with the notch 120d.

[0098] Furthermore, in the field device 1, since the second protrusion 119 deviates from the first virtual axis C1, when assembling the optical display 10, the circuit board 120 can be prevented from being pressed into the internal space of the container 110 in an inappropriate orientation.

[0099] Furthermore, in the field device 1, since the second length L2 of the second protrusion 119 is greater than the first length L1 of the first protrusion 118, the circuit board 120 can be properly positioned and pressed into the internal space of the container 110 with a small force.

[0100] Furthermore, in the field device 1, at least the left outer edge, the right outer edge, and the notch 120d of the circuit board 120 are router processed, so that the left outer edge and the right outer edge of the circuit board 120 are positioned in accurate positions, and thus the circuit board 120 can be pressed into an accurate position in the internal space of the container 110.

[0101] Furthermore, in the field device 1, the inner wall 116 can reliably prevent light from propagating between the first to sixth display units 113a to 113f. Furthermore, in the field device 1, the first to sixth display units 113a to 113f each make it difficult for the lit light source to be seen from outside the container 110 by the first layer 114 and the second layer 115, which can improve the visibility of the information optically displayed by the optical display 10. In each of the first to sixth display units 113a to 113f, when a corresponding one of the first to sixth light sources 101 to 106 is lit, letters, symbols, and / or figures can be displayed on the container 110 so that they appear to float above the container 110.

[0102] Furthermore, in the field device 1, the circuit board 120 can be firmly fixed inside the optical display 10 by the filler material 130. Furthermore, in the field device 1, the base 112 of the container 110 is wider than the upper part 111 of the container 110, so when the first upper surface 111a of the upper part 111 is exposed from a part of the right grip part 82 of the field device 1, the base 112 is engaged with the part of the right grip part 82. Therefore, the optical display 10 can be prevented from falling off the right grip part 82. 2-5. Terminology In the present embodiment, the left and right outer edges of the circuit board 120 correspond to an example of a first outer edge and an example of a second outer edge, respectively, in the generalization of the embodiments. Any one of the first to sixth light sources 101 to 106 corresponds to an example of a first light source in the generalization of the embodiments, and another one of the first to sixth light sources 101 to 106 corresponds to an example of a second light source in the generalization of the embodiments. Any one of the first to sixth display units 113a to 113f corresponds to an example of a first display unit in the generalization of the embodiments, and another one of the first to sixth display units 113a to 113f corresponds to an example of a second display unit in the generalization of the embodiments. Any one of the first to sixth display units 113a to 113f corresponds to an example of a first partial space in the generalization of the embodiments, and another one of the first to sixth display units 113a to 113f corresponds to an example of a second partial space in the generalization of the embodiments. 2-6. Variations The present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and can be implemented in various modifications.

[0103] 11, in one variation, the first protrusion 118 may deviate rearward from the first imaginary axis C1 by a first distance D1 together with the recess 117a. The first distance D1 may be different from a second distance D2 by which the second protrusion 119 deviates from the first imaginary axis C1. If the first distance D1 and the second distance D2 are different from each other, the first protrusion 118 will not align with the notch 120d of the circuit board 120, regardless of the orientation of the circuit board 120. Therefore, the circuit board 120 can be prevented from being press-fitted into the container 110 in an improper orientation.

[0104] In one variation, the second peripheral wall 112c may have an additional protrusion on its inner peripheral surface that functions similarly to the first protrusion 118 or the second protrusion 119. In one variation, the first protrusion 118 may deviate forward from the first imaginary axis C1 by a first distance D1, and / or the second protrusion 119 may deviate rearward from the first imaginary axis C1 by a second distance D2.

[0105] In one variation, the container 110 and / or the circuit board 120 may be configured so that the circuit board 120 is press-fit into the interior of the container 110 with the first side 120a of the circuit board 120 facing away from the first surface of the container 110.

[0106] In one variation, the container 110 may have, at least in part, the three-dimensional shape of a cone, a frustum, or a cylinder. In some variations, the opening 112e may have a square, circular or oval planar shape.

[0107] In some variations, the second protrusion 119 and the notch 120d may be eliminated. 2-7. Supplementary Information In the above embodiments, multiple functions achieved by one component may be achieved by multiple components, and one function achieved by one component may be achieved by multiple components. Furthermore, multiple functions achieved by multiple components may be achieved by one component, and one function achieved by multiple components may be achieved by one component. Furthermore, part of the configuration of the above embodiments may be omitted. Furthermore, at least part of the configuration of one of the above embodiments may be added to or substituted for the configuration of another of the above embodiments. [Explanation of symbols]

[0108] 1...field equipment, 2...main pipe, 3...motor housing, 4...cutting blade, 4a...metal blade, 4b...nylon cord cutter, 5...controller, 6...attachment, 7...battery pack, 8...handle, 9...trigger, 10...optical display, 11...operation panel, 31...motor, 51...control circuit, 52...drive circuit, 81...left grip, 82...right grip, 91...trigger switch, 101...first light source, 102...second light source, 103...third light source, 104...fourth light source, 105...fifth light source, 106...sixth light source, 110...container, 111...upper portion, 111a...first upper surface, 111b...first peripheral wall, 112 ...base, 112a...second upper surface, 112b...inclined portion, 112c...second peripheral wall, 112e...opening, 113a...first display portion, 113b...second display portion, 113c...third display portion, 113d...fourth display portion, 113e...fifth display portion, 113f...sixth display portion, 114...first layer, 115...second layer, 115a...hole, 116...inner wall, 117...seating portion, 117a...recess, 118...first protrusion, 119...second protrusion, 120...circuit board, 120a...first surface, 120b...second surface, 120c...lead wire, 120d...notch, 130...filler, 201...power button, 202...rotation direction switch button.

Claims

1. A field device comprising: an optical indicator, the optical indicator comprising: A container comprising: (i) a closed end, a peripheral wall, and an open end having an opening; and (ii) configured to be at least partially light-transmitting, wherein the peripheral wall (i) surrounds an interior space of the container between the closed end and the open end; and (ii) has a first protrusion on its inner circumferential surface, the first protrusion (i) protruding into the interior space; and (ii) a circumferential length of the peripheral wall that is shorter than a circumferential length of the inner circumferential surface in a circumferential direction of the peripheral wall. (i) a first light source; and (ii) a circuit board having a first surface facing the closed end, the circuit board being press-fitted into the internal space with the first protrusion pressed toward the inner circumferential surface. Equipped with Field equipment.

2. 10. The field device of claim 1, The inner peripheral surface of the peripheral wall (i) has a seat portion that protrudes into the internal space and (ii) contacts the first surface of the circuit board. Field equipment.

3. 3. The field device of claim 2, The seating portion surrounds the interior space. Field equipment.

4. 4. The field device according to claim 2 or 3, the seating portion includes a recess surrounding the first protrusion; The first protrusion extends from the recess toward the open end. Field equipment.

5. A field device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, the first protrusion extends toward the open end without reaching the open end; Field equipment.

6. 6. The field device of claim 5, the first protrusion extends beyond the thickness of the circuit board toward the open end; Field equipment.

7. A field device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, The inner circumferential surface of the peripheral wall includes a second protrusion (i) that protrudes into the internal space and (ii) that is shorter than the circumferential length of the inner circumferential surface in the circumferential direction of the peripheral wall; the circuit board has a notch that engages with the second protrusion; Field equipment.

8. 8. The field device of claim 7, the opening has a planar shape that is line-symmetric with respect to a predetermined axis, When viewed from the opening, (i) the first protrusion and the second protrusion face each other, (ii) the first protrusion is on the predetermined axis, and (iii) the second protrusion deviates from the predetermined axis. Field equipment.

9. 8. The field device of claim 7, the opening has a planar shape that is line-symmetric with respect to a predetermined axis, When viewed from the opening, (i) the first protrusion and the second protrusion oppose each other, (ii) the first protrusion deviates from the predetermined axis by a first distance, (iii) the second protrusion deviates from the predetermined axis by a second distance, and (iv) the first distance is different from the second distance. Field equipment.

10. A field device according to any one of claims 7 to 9, the first protrusion protrudes into the interior space by a first length; the second protrusion projects into the interior space by a second length; The second length is greater than the first length. Field equipment.

11. A field device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, The circuit board includes: a first outer edge portion contacting the first protrusion; a second outer edge portion opposite the first outer edge portion; Equipped with the first outer edge and the second outer edge are routed; Field equipment.

12. A field device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, the first surface of the circuit board has a second light source in addition to the first light source; The container comprises: a first display unit configured to be illuminated by the first light source; a second display unit configured to be illuminated by the second light source; and Equipped with Field equipment.

13. 13. The field device of claim 12, the container (i) comprises an inner wall that divides the interior space into a first subspace and a second subspace, and (ii) is configured to block light between the first subspace and the second subspace; the first partial space corresponds to the first display unit; the second partial space corresponds to the second display unit; Field equipment.

14. 14. The field device of claim 13, the inner wall has an end portion contacting the first surface of the circuit board between the first light source and the second light source. Field equipment.

15. A field device according to any one of claims 1 to 14, The container comprises: (i) a first layer covering the first light source, and (ii) configured to diffuse light emitted from the first light source; (i) a second layer overlying the first layer, and (ii) configured to partially transmit the light received from the first light source through the first layer; Equipped with Field equipment.

16. A field device according to any one of claims 1 to 15, the closed end is configured to be at least partially light transmissive; Field equipment.

17. A field device according to any one of claims 1 to 16, the circuit board has a second surface opposite the first surface; the optical indicator includes a filler material between the second surface and the open end. Field equipment.

18. A field device according to any one of claims 1 to 17, the open end is wider than the closed end; Field equipment.

19. A field device according to any one of claims 1 to 18, further comprising: a grip portion configured to be gripped by a user of the field device; The grip portion is provided with the optical indicator. Field equipment.

20. The field device of any one of claims 1 to 19, further comprising: An attachment configured to detachably mount the battery pack; The circuit board is configured to (i) receive power from the battery pack attached to the attachment, and (ii) supply the received power to the first light source. Field equipment.

21. A field device according to any one of claims 1 to 20, further comprising: a control circuit configured to drive the first light source in relation to a state of the field device; Field equipment.

22. 1. A method for securing a circuit board within an optical indicator in a field device, comprising: providing a container for the optical indicator, the container having (i) a closed end, a peripheral wall, and an open end, and (ii) configured to be at least partially light-transmitting, the peripheral wall (i) surrounding an interior space of the container between the closed end and the open end, and (ii) having a protrusion on its inner circumferential surface, the protrusion (i) protruding into the interior space, and (ii) having a circumferential length in the circumferential direction of the peripheral wall shorter than that of the inner circumferential surface; press-fitting the circuit board into the internal space from the open end while pressing the protrusion toward the inner circumferential surface with the circuit board; The method comprises:

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