Spray gun

Abstract

To provide a spray gun that is able to reduce a load applied to the muscles of fingers of a hand gripping a handle portion.SOLUTION: A spray gun ejects an atomized liquid. The spray gun includes: an ejection portion that ejects a liquid; a handle portion extending in a direction intersecting an ejection direction of the liquid; and a switch that switches between an ejection state in which the liquid is ejected from the ejection portion and a non-ejection state in which the liquid is not ejected from the ejection portion. The switch is provided on a side of the handle portion. Alternatively, the switch is provided so as to be operable in a direction intersecting a direction in which, with the handle portion gripped by an operator, the handle portion receives a force from a finger of a hand gripping the handle portion,.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a spray gun. [Background technology]

[0002] For example, a spray gun such as that disclosed in Patent Document 1 is known. A spray gun is a device that sprays a mist of liquid. Generally, a spray gun has a spray portion, a handle portion, and a trigger portion. When using a spray gun, an operator holds the handle portion and operates the trigger portion with the index finger and middle finger of the hand holding the handle portion. This causes gas such as compressed air to flow through a gas flow path within the spray gun, and a liquid such as paint is sprayed from the spray portion.

[0003] However, when the trigger is operated with the index and middle fingers of the hand gripping the handle, a large load may be placed on the muscles of the fingers gripping the handle. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 6-47318 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In view of the above, the present disclosure aims to provide a spray gun that can reduce the strain on the muscles in the fingers of the hand that grips the handle. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] An embodiment of the present disclosure relates to the following [1] to

[15] .

[0007] [1] A spray gun that sprays a mist of liquid, a jetting portion that jets the liquid; a handle portion extending in a direction intersecting the direction of ejection of the liquid; a switch for switching between a jetting state in which the liquid is jetted from the jetting portion and a non-jetting state in which the liquid is not jetted from the jetting portion, The switch is provided on the side of the handle portion of the spray gun.

[0008] [2] A spray gun that sprays a mist of liquid, a jetting portion that jets the liquid; a handle portion extending in a direction intersecting the direction of ejection of the liquid; a switch for switching between a jetting state in which the liquid is jetted from the jetting portion and a non-jetting state in which the liquid is not jetted from the jetting portion, The spray gun is configured so that the switch can be operated in a direction intersecting a direction in which the handle receives force from the fingers of the hand gripping the handle when the handle is gripped by an operator.

[0009] [3] The spray gun described in [2], wherein the switch is located in a position that can be operated by the thumb of the hand holding the handle portion when the handle portion is held by the operator.

[0010] [4] The handle portion includes a protrusion that protrudes laterally, The spray gun according to any one of [1] to [3], wherein the switch is provided on the protruding portion.

[0011] [5] A spray gun as described in [4], wherein the protrusion is located on the thumb side of the hand holding the handle portion when the handle portion is held by an operator.

[0012] [6] A spray gun as described in [4] or [5], wherein the protrusion is provided only on one side of the handle portion.

[0013] [7] A spray gun described in any one of [4] to [6], wherein the protrusion is located in front of the handle portion and includes a hook portion for hooking the index finger and middle finger of the hand holding the handle portion.

[0014] [8] A spray gun described in any one of [4] to [6], wherein the protrusion is arranged so that the ring finger and little finger of the hand gripping the handle are positioned below the protrusion.

[0015] [9] The spray gun according to any one of [1] to [8], wherein the switch is a push-button switch.

[0016]

[10] The spray gun according to [9], wherein when the switch is pressed, the liquid is sprayed from the spray portion.

[0017]

[11] The switch includes a pressing portion having a pressing surface to be pressed by an operator's finger, The spray gun according to [9] or

[10] , wherein the pressing surface is inclined with respect to the direction in which the liquid is ejected.

[0018]

[12] The spray gun according to

[11] , wherein the pressing surface is formed with a recess for receiving an operator's finger.

[0019]

[13] A gas flow path through which gas for ejecting the liquid flows; a valve that switches the gas flow path between a communication state in which the gas flow path is communicated and a non-communication state in which the gas flow path is not communicated, the valve is located within the protrusion; The spray gun according to any one of [4] to

[12] , wherein the valve is connected to the switch and is operated by the switch.

[0020]

[14] The valve includes an inlet through which the gas flows in and an outlet through which the gas flows out; the inlet is located on the side of the switch;

[13] The spray gun according to

[13] , wherein the outlet is located farther from the switch than the inlet.

[0021]

[15] A needle is provided to control the ejection of the liquid from the ejection portion,

[13] or

[14] . The spray gun according to

[13] or

[14] , wherein, when the switch is operated, the valve connects the gas flow path, the gas flows through the gas flow path, the pressure of the gas operates the needle, and the liquid is sprayed from the spray portion. [Effects of the Invention]

[0022] According to the present disclosure, the load on the muscles of the fingers of the hand gripping the handle portion can be reduced. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0023] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a side view of a spray gun according to one embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a top view of the spray gun shown in FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the switch and the valve when the switch is not pressed. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the switch and the valve when the switch is pressed. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0024] A spray gun according to one embodiment of the present disclosure will now be described with reference to Figures 1 to 5. In the following description, the same or corresponding parts in each drawing will be given the same reference numerals, and description thereof will not be repeated.

[0025] To clarify the directional relationships between the drawings, arrows with common symbols are used in several drawings to indicate the front-to-rear direction D1, the up-down direction D2, and the left-to-right direction D3. The front-to-rear direction D1 is a direction parallel to the liquid spray direction S, which will be described later. The up-down direction D2 is a direction perpendicular to the front-to-rear direction D1, and is a direction parallel to the direction in which the handle portion 20, which will be described later, extends when the spray gun 1 is viewed along the front-to-rear direction D1. The left-to-right direction D3 is a direction perpendicular to both the front-to-rear direction D1 and the up-to-down direction D2. The tip of the arrow is the first side in each direction. The side opposite the tip of the arrow is the second side in each direction. Arrows pointing away from the paper in a direction perpendicular to the paper surface of the drawing are indicated by symbols consisting of a dot within a circle.

[0026] In the following description, "forward" means a first side in the front-rear direction D1, "rear" means a second side in the front-rear direction D1, "upward" means a first side in the up-down direction D2, "downward" means a second side in the up-down direction D2, and "lateral" means a first side or a second side in the left-right direction D3.

[0027] Figure 1 is a side view of a spray gun 1 according to one embodiment, Figure 2 is a top view of the spray gun 1 shown in Figure 1, and Figure 3 is a perspective view of Figure 1.

[0028] The spray gun 1 according to one embodiment is a device for spraying a mist of liquid. The spray gun 1 includes a spray unit 10 that sprays the liquid, a handle unit 20 that extends in a direction intersecting the liquid spray direction S, and a switch 40 that switches between a spraying state in which the liquid is sprayed from the spray unit 10 and a non-spraying state in which the liquid is not sprayed from the spray unit 10.

[0029] First, the spraying part 10 will be described. The spraying part 10 is a part that sprays liquid. The spraying part 10 is provided at the tip (front end) of the main body 2 of the spray gun 1. The spraying direction S of the liquid is forward, that is, the first side in the front-to-rear direction D1. The spraying direction S of the liquid is the direction in which the liquid is mainly sprayed from the spraying part 10.

[0030] The liquid is, for example, paint. The liquid is supplied to the spraying part 10 from a liquid supply part 3. The liquid supply part 3 is provided in the main body 2 of the spray gun 1. In the example shown in FIG. 2, the liquid supply part 3 is provided on the side of the main body 2 of the spray gun 1. A liquid supply device (not shown) that supplies the liquid is connected to the liquid supply part 3. The liquid is supplied to the spraying part 10 from the liquid supply device (not shown) via the liquid supply part 3.

[0031] Further, gas for spraying the liquid is supplied to the jetting part 10. The gas atomizes the liquid supplied from the liquid supply part 3 to the jetting part 10. The gas is, for example, compressed air. The gas is supplied to the jetting part 10 from a gas supply part 4. The gas supply part 4 is provided in the handle part 20, which will be described later. In the example shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, the gas supply part 4 is provided at the lower end (lower end) of the handle part 20. A gas supply device (not shown) that supplies gas is connected to the gas supply part 4. The gas is supplied from the gas supply device (not shown) via the gas supply part 4. The gas supplied from the gas supply part 4 is supplied to the jetting part 10 through a gas flow path 50, which will be described later.

[0032] The jetting unit 10 includes a nozzle 11 and a gas cap 12. A liquid jetting outlet 11a is provided at the tip of the nozzle 11. The liquid supplied to the jetting unit 10 from the liquid supply unit 3 is jetted from this liquid jetting outlet 11a. The liquid jetting outlet 11a is opened and closed by a needle 70, which will be described later. When the needle 70 opens the liquid jetting outlet 11a, the jetting unit 10 enters a jetting state in which liquid is jetted from the jetting unit 10, and when the needle 70 closes the liquid jetting outlet 11a, the jetting unit 10 enters a non-jetting state in which liquid is not jetted from the jetting unit 10.

[0033] Gas cap 12 has corners 12a provided on both sides in left-right direction D3. Pattern adjustment gas outlets 12b are provided at corners 12a. A portion of the gas supplied from gas supply unit 4 to jetting unit 10 through gas flow path 50 flows out from pattern adjustment gas outlets 12b. The gas flowing out from pattern adjustment gas outlets 12b adjusts the size and shape of the liquid pattern jetted out from liquid jetting nozzle 11a.

[0034] An opening 12c is provided in the center of the gas cap 12. The tip of the nozzle 11 extends from this opening 12c. Of the gas supplied from the gas supply unit 4 through the gas flow path 50 to the jetting unit 10, the gas that does not flow out from the pattern adjustment gas outlet 12b flows out from the gap between the outer peripheral surface of the tip of the nozzle 11 and the opening 12c. The gas flowing out from this gap atomizes the liquid jetted out from the liquid jetting outlet 11a.

[0035] Next, the handle portion 20 will be described. The handle portion 20 is the portion that is gripped by the operator's hand when using the spray gun 1. The handle portion 20 is gripped by the palm and fingers of the operator's hand. The fingers that grip the handle portion 20 include, for example, the index finger and / or middle finger. The fingers that grip the handle portion 20 may also include the ring finger and / or little finger.

[0036] The handle portion 20 extends in a direction intersecting the liquid ejection direction S. That is, the handle portion 20 extends in a direction intersecting the front-rear direction D1. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, the extension direction of the handle portion 20 does not have to be perpendicular to the liquid ejection direction S. That is, the handle portion 20 may be inclined with respect to the up-down direction D2. In the example shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, the handle portion 20 is inclined so that it extends rearward as it extends downward. Furthermore, the extension direction of the handle portion 20 is perpendicular to the left-right direction D3.

[0037] The handle portion 20 extends from the main body portion 2. The main body portion 2 extends generally in the X direction, and has the ejection portion 10 at its tip. In the example shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, the handle portion 20 extends downward and rearward from the main body portion 2. The main body portion 2 and the handle portion 20 may be integrated. The main body portion 2 and the handle portion 20 may be manufactured as a single unit, for example, by injection molding.

[0038] The handle portion 20 includes a protrusion 30 that protrudes laterally. When the handle portion 20 is gripped by an operator, the protrusion 30 is located on the thumb side of the hand gripping the handle portion 20. In the example shown, the protrusion 30 is located on a first side in the left-right direction D3, which is the thumb side of the right hand when the handle portion 20 is gripped in the right hand. Furthermore, the protrusion 30 is provided only on one lateral side of the handle portion 20. In the example shown, the protrusion 30 is provided only on the first side of the handle portion 20 in the left-right direction D3.

[0039] Although not shown, assuming that the handle portion 20 is held in the left hand, the protrusion 30 may be located on the second side in the left-right direction D3, which is the thumb side of the left hand when the handle portion 20 is held in the left hand. In this case, the protrusion 30 may be provided only on the second side of the handle portion 20 in the left-right direction D3.

[0040] The protruding portion 30 is located in front of the handle portion 20 and includes a hook portion 31 for hooking the index finger and middle finger of the hand gripping the handle portion 20. In the example shown in Figs. 1 and 3, the hook portion 31 is configured as a recessed portion 33 formed in the front surface 32 of the protruding portion 30. The recessed portion 33 includes a first recessed portion 33a for receiving the index finger, and a second recessed portion 33b located below the first recessed portion 33a for receiving the middle finger.

[0041] The protrusion 30 is provided so that the ring finger and little finger of the hand gripping the handle portion 20 are positioned below the protrusion 30. In other words, when the handle portion 20 is gripped by an operator, the index finger and middle finger of the hand gripping the handle portion 20 are hooked on the hook portion 31, while the ring finger and little finger of the hand gripping the handle portion 20 are positioned below the protrusion 30.

[0042] Although not shown, the ring finger and little finger of the hand gripping the handle portion 20 may also be hooked onto the hook portion 31. That is, the protruding portion 30 may have a shape that is longer downward than the protruding portion 30 shown in Figures 1 and 3, and the recessed portion 33 may include a third recessed portion that is located lower than the second recessed portion 33b and that receives the ring finger, and a fourth recessed portion that is located lower than the third recessed portion and that receives the little finger.

[0043] Next, we will explain the switch 40. The switch 40 is configured to switch between a spraying state in which liquid is sprayed from the spray part 10 and a non-spraying state in which liquid is not sprayed from the spray part 10. The switch 40 is provided on the side of the handle part 20.

[0044] The switch 40 is provided so as to be operable in a direction intersecting a direction F in which the handle portion 20 receives a force from the fingers of the hand gripping the handle portion 20 when the handle portion 20 is gripped by an operator. In the illustrated example, the fingers of the hand gripping the handle portion 20 include the index finger and middle finger, and the direction F in which the handle portion 20 receives a force from the fingers of the hand gripping the handle portion 20 is rearward, i.e., a direction toward the second side in the front-to-rear direction D1.

[0045] The operation direction P of the switch 40 may be a direction intersecting the front-rear direction D1. The operation direction P of the switch 40 may also be a direction intersecting the up-down direction D2. The operation direction P of the switch 40 may also be a direction intersecting the left-right direction D3. Furthermore, the operation direction P of the switch 40 may also be a direction intersecting the direction in which the handle portion 20 extends. In the illustrated example, the operation direction P of the switch 40 is inclined so as to move forward as it progresses downward. Furthermore, the operation direction P of the switch 40 is inclined so as to move toward the second side in the left-right direction D3 as it progresses downward.

[0046] The operation direction P of the switch 40 means the direction in which the switch 40 performs its function when operated in that direction. As described above, the function of the switch 40 is to switch between a jetting state in which liquid is jetted from the jetting part 10 and a non-jetting state in which liquid is not jetted from the jetting part 10. If the switch 40 is a push-type switch as will be described later, the operation direction P of the switch 40 is the direction in which the switch 40 is pressed.

[0047] The switch 40 is provided in a position where it can be operated by the thumb of the hand gripping the handle portion 20 when the handle portion 20 is being gripped by an operator. For example, when the handle portion 20 is gripped with the palm and index and middle fingers of the right hand, the switch 40 is provided in a position where it can be operated by the thumb of the right hand. In the example shown, the switch 40 is provided on a first side of the handle portion 20 in the left-right direction D3. Although not shown, the switch 40 may be provided on a second side of the handle portion 20 in the left-right direction D3, assuming that the handle portion 20 is gripped with the left hand.

[0048] In the illustrated example, the switch 40 is provided on the protrusion 30. As described above, the protrusion 30 is provided on the first side of the handle portion 20 in the left-right direction D3. Therefore, when the switch 40 is provided on the protrusion 30, the switch 40 is also provided on the first side of the handle portion 20 in the left-right direction D3.

[0049] Moreover, switch 40 is a push-type switch. That is, switch 40 is configured to be activated by being pressed by the operator's finger. When switch 40 is pressed, liquid is ejected from jetting unit 10. When switch 40 is not pressed, liquid is not ejected from jetting unit 10. That is, while switch 40 is pressed, jetting unit 10 is in an ejecting state where liquid is ejected from jetting unit 10, and while switch 40 is not pressed, jetting unit 10 is in a non-ejecting state where liquid is not ejected from jetting unit 10.

[0050] The switch 40 is movable between an actuated position and an inactuated position. The actuated position is the position when the switch 40 is pressed, and is the position where the above-mentioned ejection state is achieved. The inactuated position is the position when the switch 40 is not pressed, and is the position where the above-mentioned non-ejection state is achieved. The actuated position is the position when the switch 40 is pressed, and is therefore located lower than the inactuated position. While the switch 40 is not pressed, the switch 40 is located in the inactuated position. When the switch 40 is pressed, the switch 40 moves from the inactuated position to the actuated position. When the finger is released from the switch 40, the switch 40 is urged by the urging member 66, which will be described later, and returns to the inactuated position.

[0051] 1 and 2, the switch 40 includes a pressing portion 41. The pressing portion 41 is a portion that is pressed by an operator's finger. The pressing portion 41 has a pressing surface 42 that is pressed by the operator's finger. In particular, the pressing surface 42 can be pressed by the operator's thumb.

[0052] The pressing surface 42 is inclined with respect to the liquid ejection direction S. That is, the pressing surface 42 is inclined with respect to the front-rear direction D1. The pressing surface 42 is also inclined with respect to the up-down direction D2. In the illustrated example, the pressing surface 42 is inclined so as to slope downward as it moves rearward. The pressing surface 42 is also inclined with respect to the left-right direction D3. In the illustrated example, the pressing surface 42 is inclined so as to slope downward as it moves toward a first side in the left-right direction D3.

[0053] Further, a recess 43 for receiving the operator's finger is formed on the pressing surface 42. The recess 43 may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the tip of the finger when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the pressing surface 42, for example, a semi-elliptical shape as shown in FIG. 2, so as to easily receive the operator's finger (thumb).

[0054] The spray gun 1 also includes a gas flow path 50 through which gas flows to spray the atomized liquid, and a valve 60 that switches the gas flow path 50 between a connected state in which the gas flow path 50 is connected and a disconnected state in which the gas flow path 50 is not connected.

[0055] First, the gas flow path 50 will be described. The gas flow path 50 is a flow path through which gas supplied from the gas supply unit 4, more specifically, gas supplied from a gas supply device (not shown) via the gas supply unit 4, flows. The gas flow path 50 is provided inside the spray gun 1. More specifically, the gas flow path 50 is provided inside the handle portion 20, the protruding portion 30, and the main body portion 2, as shown in FIG.

[0056] The gas flow path 50 includes a first flow path 50a extending from the gas supply section 4 toward the inlet 61 of the valve 60, a second flow path 50b extending from the outlet 62 of the valve 60 toward the branch point B, a third flow path 50c extending from the branch point B toward the piston chamber 5, and a fourth flow path 50d extending from the branch point B toward the ejection section 10.

[0057] The first flow path 50a is a flow path provided between the gas supply unit 4 and the inlet 61 of the valve 60. The gas supplied from the gas supply unit 4 flows through the first flow path 50a toward the inlet 61 of the valve 60.

[0058] The second flow path 50b is a flow path provided between the outlet 62 of the valve 60 and the branch point B. The gas flowing out from the outlet 62 of the valve 60 flows through the second flow path 50b toward the branch point B. The branch point B is provided inside the main body 2. The branch point B is located near the connection between the main body 2 and the handle 20.

[0059] The third flow path 50c is a flow path provided between the branch point B and the piston chamber 5. A portion of the gas that reaches the branch point B flows through the third flow path 50c toward the piston chamber 5. The piston chamber 5 is located at the rear within the main body 2. The piston chamber 5 is located behind the branch point B. A flange 6 is provided within the piston chamber 5. The flange 6 is connected to the rear end (rear end) of the needle 70.

[0060] The needle 70 is a member that controls the ejection of liquid from the ejection part 10. The needle 70 opens and closes the liquid ejection port 11a. The needle 70 has an elongated shape that extends in the front-to-rear direction D1. The needle 70 is configured to be movable in the front-to-rear direction D1 together with the flange 6. When the needle 70 is positioned forward, the tip of the needle 70 blocks the liquid ejection port 11a, and the liquid ejection port 11a is closed. When the needle 70 is positioned backward, the tip of the needle 70 is separated from the liquid ejection port 11a, and the liquid ejection port 11a is opened.

[0061] The needle 70 is biased forward by a biasing member (not shown). Therefore, when gas is not supplied to the piston chamber 5, the needle 70 is positioned forward, and the tip of the needle 70 blocks the liquid outlet 11a, closing the liquid outlet 11a. When gas is supplied to the piston chamber 5, the flange 6 moves rearward under the pressure of the gas. This causes the piston 7 to move rearward together with the flange 6, and the tip of the needle 70 moves away from the liquid outlet 11a, opening the liquid outlet 11a. In other words, the pressure of the gas supplied to the piston chamber 5 operates the needle 70, opening the liquid outlet 11a. As a result, the liquid supplied from the liquid supply unit 3 is sprayed from the liquid outlet 11a. In other words, the liquid is sprayed from the spray unit 10.

[0062] The fourth flow path 50d is a flow path provided between the branch point B and the jetting part 10. Of the gas that has reached the branch point B, the gas that is not supplied to the piston chamber 5 flows through the fourth flow path 50d and heads toward the jetting part 10. A portion of the gas supplied to the jetting part 10 flows out from the pattern adjustment gas outlet 12b. In addition, of the gas supplied to the jetting part 10, the gas that does not flow out from the pattern adjustment gas outlet 12b flows out from the gap between the outer peripheral surface of the tip of the nozzle 11 and the opening 12c.

[0063] The flow rate of the gas supplied to the pattern adjustment gas outlet 12b can be adjusted by a pattern adjustment knob 51 provided on the top (upper part) of the main body 2. More specifically, when the pattern adjustment knob 51 is rotated, the pattern adjustment needle 52 changes the opening of the gas flow path leading to the pattern adjustment gas outlet 12b, thereby adjusting the flow rate of the gas supplied to the pattern adjustment gas outlet 12b.

[0064] The amount of liquid ejected from ejection part 10 can be adjusted by liquid ejection amount adjustment knob 53 provided at the rear end of main body 2. More specifically, turning liquid ejection amount adjustment knob 53 changes the amount by which needle 70 opens and closes liquid ejection nozzle 11a, thereby adjusting the amount of liquid ejected from liquid ejection nozzle 11a.

[0065] The flow rate of gas supplied to the jetting part 10 can be adjusted by a gas flow rate adjustment knob 54 provided at the lower end of the handle part 20. More specifically, turning the gas flow rate adjustment knob 54 changes the amount by which the first flow path 50a is opened or closed by the gas flow rate adjustment valve 55, thereby adjusting the flow rate of gas flowing through the gas flow path 50 and supplied to the jetting part 10.

[0066] Next, the valve 60 will be described. The valve 60 is configured to switch the gas flow path 50 between a communication state in which the gas flow path 50 is in communication and a non-communication state in which the gas flow path 50 is not in communication. The valve 60 is provided in the gas flow path 50. The valve 60 is provided to connect the first flow path 50a and the second flow path 50b. In the illustrated example, the valve 60 is located inside the protrusion 30. The valve 60 is connected to the switch 40 and is operated by the switch 40.

[0067] Fig. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the switch 40 and the valve 60 when the switch 40 is not pressed. Fig. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the switch 40 and the valve 60 when the switch 40 is pressed.

[0068] As shown in FIGS. 3 to 5, the valve 60 includes an inlet 61 through which gas flows in and an outlet 62 through which gas flows out.

[0069] The inlet 61 is connected to the first flow path 50a. The inlet 61 is configured so that gas that is supplied from the gas supply unit 4 and has flowed through the first flow path 50a flows into the inlet 61. The outlet 62 is connected to the second flow path 50b. When the gas flow path 50 is in a connected state in the valve 60, the gas that has flowed in from the inlet 61 flows out to the second flow path 50b through the outlet 62.

[0070] As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the valve 60 includes a cylinder 63, a rod 64, a valve plate 65, and a biasing member 66.

[0071] The cylinder 63 is formed in a cylindrical shape. The rod 64 is formed in a rod shape. The rod 64 is housed inside the cylinder 63. The upper end (upper end) of the rod 64 extends from the cylinder 63 and is connected to the pressing portion 41 of the switch 40. The rod 64 is configured to be movable in the up and down direction.

[0072] The rod 64 includes a large diameter portion 64a and a small diameter portion 64b that has a smaller diameter than the large diameter portion 64a. The small diameter portion 64b is located within the cylinder 63. A space 67 is provided between the small diameter portion 64b and the cylinder 63. The valve plate 65 is provided on the small diameter portion 64b of the rod 64. The valve plate 65 divides the space 67 into a first chamber 67a and a second chamber 67b that do not communicate with each other. The biasing member 66 biases the rod 64 upward.

[0073] The inlet 61 and the outlet 62 are formed on the side surface of the cylinder 63. The inlet 61 is located above the outlet 62, and the outlet 62 is located below the inlet 61. In other words, the inlet 61 is located on the side of the switch 40, and the outlet 62 is located farther from the switch 40 than the inlet 61.

[0074] 4, when the switch 40 is not pressed, the inlet 61 communicates with the second chamber 67b, and the outlet 62 communicates with the first chamber 67a. In this case, the first chamber 67a and the second chamber 67b are not connected by the valve plate 65, and therefore the inlet 61 and the outlet 62 do not communicate with each other. Therefore, the gas flow path 50 is in a non-communicating state in which the gas flow path 50 is not connected.

[0075] On the other hand, as shown in Figure 5, when the switch 40 is pressed, the rod 64 moves downward, and the inlet 61 communicates with the second chamber 67b, and the outlet 62 also communicates with the second chamber 67b. In this case, the inlet 61 and the outlet 62 communicate with each other. Therefore, the gas flow path 50 is in a communicated state in which the gas flow path 50 is communicated. This allows gas to flow through the gas flow path 50. In this way, the valve 60 switches the gas flow path 50 between a communicated state and a non-communicated state.

[0076] After the operator presses switch 40 with his / her finger to set it in the state shown in FIG. 5, when the operator releases his / her finger from switch 40, rod 64 is biased by biasing member 66 to move upward, thereby returning to the state shown in FIG. 4.

[0077] Next, the operation of this embodiment having the above-described configuration will be described.

[0078] When using the spray gun 1 according to this embodiment, the operator first grasps the handle portion 20. For example, the handle portion 20 is grasped with the palm and index and middle fingers of the operator's right hand. The index and middle fingers are placed so as to be positioned in the first and second recesses 33a and 33b, respectively, formed in the front surface 32 of the protruding portion 30. The ring and little fingers are placed so as to be positioned below the protruding portion 30.

[0079] Next, with the operator gripping handle portion 20, liquid ejection port 11a of ejection portion 10 is directed toward the target object. Then, switch 40 is operated by the fingers of the operator gripping handle portion 20. More specifically, pressing portion 41 of switch 40 is pressed by the thumb of the operator's right hand.

[0080] When the switch 40 is operated, the valve 60 opens the gas flow path 50. More specifically, when the switch 40 is pressed, the rod 64 of the valve 60 connected to the switch 40 moves downward, and the inlet 61 and outlet 62 of the valve 60 open to each other (see FIG. 5). This allows gas to flow through the gas flow path 50.

[0081] The gas is supplied from the gas supply unit 4. More specifically, the gas is supplied from a gas supply device (not shown) via the gas supply unit 4. The gas supplied from the gas supply unit 4 flows through the first flow path 50a toward the inlet 61 of the valve 60. The gas that reaches the inlet 61 of the valve 60 flows in from the inlet 61 of the valve 60 and flows out from the outlet 62 of the valve 60. The gas that flows out from the outlet 62 of the valve 60 flows through the second flow path 50b toward the branch point B.

[0082] A portion of the gas that reaches branch point B flows through third flow path 50c toward piston chamber 5. When gas is supplied to piston chamber 5, the pressure of the gas moves needle 70. More specifically, the flange 6 moves rearward under the pressure of the gas supplied to piston chamber 5. As a result, needle 70 moves rearward together with flange 6, and the tip of needle 70 moves away from liquid outlet 11a, opening liquid outlet 11a. As a result, liquid supplied from liquid supply unit 3, more specifically, liquid supplied from a liquid supply device (not shown) via liquid supply unit 3, is ejected from liquid outlet 11a. That is, liquid is ejected from ejection unit 10.

[0083] On the other hand, the gas that reaches branch point B but is not supplied to piston chamber 5 flows through fourth flow path 50d toward jetting unit 10. A portion of the gas supplied to jetting unit 10 flows out from pattern adjustment gas outlet 12b. The gas flowing out from pattern adjustment gas outlet 12b adjusts the size and shape of the liquid pattern jetted from liquid jetting outlet 11a. Furthermore, the gas supplied to jetting unit 10 that does not flow out from pattern adjustment gas outlet 12b flows out from the gap between the outer peripheral surface of the tip of nozzle 11 and opening 12c. The gas flowing out from this gap atomizes the liquid jetted from liquid jetting outlet 11a.

[0084] In this way, spray gun 1 can spray a mist of liquid onto a target object. The liquid is sprayed continuously while the operator is operating switch 40. In other words, the liquid continues to be sprayed from spraying part 10 as long as switch 40 is pressed by the operator's finger.

[0085] When the operator's finger is released from the switch 40, the rod 64 of the valve 60 connected to the switch 40 is urged by the urging member 66 to move upward, and the inlet 61 and outlet 62 of the valve 60 enter a non-communicating state where they are not connected to each other (see FIG. 4). As a result, gas does not flow into the gas flow path 50. Therefore, gas is not supplied to the jetting part 10, and the outflow of gas from the jetting part 10 stops. In addition, the piston chamber 5 is depressurized, and the needle 70 is urged by the urging member (not shown) to move forward. As a result, the tip of the needle 70 blocks the liquid jetting port 11a, and the liquid jetting port 11a is closed. Therefore, the jetting of liquid from the jetting part 10 stops.

[0086] According to this embodiment, the spray gun 1 includes a spray unit 10 that sprays liquid, a handle unit 20 that extends in a direction intersecting the liquid spray direction S, and a switch 40 that switches between a spraying state in which the spray unit 10 sprays liquid and a non-spraying state in which the spray unit 10 does not spray liquid. The switch 40 is provided on the side of the handle unit 20. Alternatively, the switch 40 is provided so that it can be operated in a direction intersecting a direction F in which the handle unit 20 receives force from the fingers of the hand gripping the handle unit 20 when the handle unit 20 is held by an operator. This arrangement of the switch 40 makes it possible to operate the switch 40 with fingers other than those gripping the handle unit 20. In a typical spray gun, the trigger is operated with the same fingers (index finger and middle finger) as those gripping the handle unit. This may place a large strain on the muscles of the fingers gripping the handle unit. In contrast, according to this embodiment, for example, when the handle portion 20 is gripped with the index finger and middle finger, the switch 40 can be operated with the thumb of the hand gripping the handle portion 20. Here, the muscles that move the thumb are different from the muscles that move the index finger and middle finger. Therefore, the load generated when gripping the handle portion 20 and the load generated when operating the switch 40 can be distributed to different muscles. As a result, the load on the muscles of the fingers of the hand gripping the handle portion 20 can be reduced.

[0087] In particular, according to this embodiment, the switch 40 is provided in a position where it can be operated with the thumb of the hand gripping the handle portion 20 when the handle portion 20 is being gripped by an operator. As a result, when the handle portion 20 is gripped with the index finger and middle finger, the switch 40 can be operated with the thumb of the hand gripping the handle portion 20. This allows the load generated when gripping the handle portion 20 and the load generated when operating the switch 40 to be distributed to different muscles. As a result, the load on the muscles of the fingers of the hand gripping the handle portion 20 can be reduced.

[0088] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the handle portion 20 includes a protrusion 30 that protrudes laterally, and the switch 40 is provided on the protrusion 30. This makes it easier to grip the handle portion 20, and the switch 40 can be positioned so that it can be easily operated by the thumb of the hand gripping the handle portion 20. This reduces the strain on the muscles in the fingers of the hand gripping the handle portion 20.

[0089] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, when the handle portion 20 is gripped by an operator, the protrusion 30 is located on the thumb side of the hand gripping the handle portion 20. As a result, when the handle portion 20 is gripped with the index finger and middle finger, the switch 40 can be operated with the thumb of the hand gripping the handle portion 20. This reduces the load on the muscles of the fingers of the hand gripping the handle portion 20.

[0090] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the protrusion 30 is provided only on one side of the handle portion 20. This makes it possible to avoid providing more protrusions 30 than necessary on the handle portion 20, making it easier to grip the handle portion 20. This reduces the strain on the muscles in the fingers of the hand gripping the handle portion 20.

[0091] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the protrusion 30 is located in front of the handle 20 and includes a hook 31 for hooking the index finger and middle finger of the hand gripping the handle 20. This makes it easier to grip the handle 20 with the index finger and middle finger, thereby reducing the strain on the muscles of the fingers gripping the handle 20.

[0092] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the protrusion 30 is provided so that the ring finger and little finger of the hand gripping the handle 20 are positioned below the protrusion 30. This makes it easier to grip the handle 20 with the index finger and middle finger. This reduces the strain on the muscles of the fingers gripping the handle 20.

[0093] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the switch 40 is a push-button switch. This makes it easier to operate the switch 40. It also requires less force to operate than a trigger. This reduces the strain on the muscles in the fingers of the hand that operates the switch 40.

[0094] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, when the switch 40 is pressed, the liquid is sprayed from the spray part 10. This makes it possible to easily operate the spray gun 1 when in use.

[0095] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the switch 40 includes a pressing portion 41 having a pressing surface 42 that is pressed by the operator's finger, and the pressing surface 42 is inclined with respect to the liquid ejection direction S. This allows the switch 40 to be positioned so that the pressing surface 42 is parallel to the fingers of the hand operating the switch 40, making it easier to press the switch 40 with the fingers of the hand gripping the handle portion 20. This reduces the strain on the muscles of the fingers of the hand operating the switch 40.

[0096] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, depressions 43 for receiving the fingers of the operator are formed in the pressing surface 42. This allows the fingers of the hand operating the switch 40 to be received in the depressions 43 of the pressing surface 42, making it easier to press the switch 40 with the fingers of the hand gripping the handle portion 20. This reduces the strain on the muscles of the fingers of the hand operating the switch 40.

[0097] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the spray gun 1 includes a gas flow path 50 through which gas flows for spraying atomized liquid, and a valve 60 that switches the gas flow path 50 between a connected state in which the gas flow path 50 is connected and a disconnected state in which the gas flow path 50 is not connected. The valve 60 is located within the protruding portion 30, and is connected to and operated by the switch 40. This allows the valve 60, which switches the connected state of the gas flow path 50, to be efficiently accommodated inside the spray gun 1. This prevents the spray gun 1 from becoming too large.

[0098] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, valve 60 includes inlet 61 through which gas flows in and outlet 62 through which gas flows out, with inlet 61 being located on the side of switch 40 and outlet 62 being located farther from switch 40 than inlet 61. This makes it possible to use a valve with a simple and compact configuration as valve 60 that switches the communication state of gas flow path 50. This makes it possible to prevent spray gun 1 from becoming larger.

[0099] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the spray gun 1 includes a needle 70 that controls the ejection of liquid from the ejection part 10. When the switch 40 is operated, the valve 60 opens the gas flow path 50, gas flows through the gas flow path 50, the pressure of the gas operates the needle 70, and the liquid is ejected from the ejection part 10. With this configuration, a spray gun 1 can be realized that can control the ejection of liquid from the ejection part 10 by operating the switch 40.

[0100] According to the embodiment described above, the load on the muscles of the fingers of the hand gripping the handle can be reduced.

[0101] Although one embodiment has been described above with reference to specific examples, the above-described specific examples do not limit the embodiment. The above-described embodiment can be implemented with various other specific examples, and various omissions, substitutions, changes, additions, etc. can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0102] 1 spray gun 10 Spout part 20 Handle 30 Protrusion 31 Hook 40 Switch 41 Pressing section 42 Pressing surface 43 Recess 50 gas flow path 60 valves 61 Entrance 62 Exit 70 Needle

Claims

1. A spray gun that sprays atomized liquid, a jetting portion that jets the liquid; a handle portion extending in a direction intersecting the direction of ejection of the liquid; a switch for switching between a jetting state in which the liquid is jetted from the jetting portion and a non-jetting state in which the liquid is not jetted from the jetting portion, The switch is provided on the side of the handle portion of the spray gun.

2. A spray gun that sprays atomized liquid, a jetting portion that jets the liquid; a handle portion extending in a direction intersecting the direction of ejection of the liquid; a switch for switching between a jetting state in which the liquid is jetted from the jetting portion and a non-jetting state in which the liquid is not jetted from the jetting portion, The spray gun is configured so that the switch can be operated in a direction intersecting a direction in which the handle receives force from the fingers of the hand gripping the handle when the handle is gripped by an operator.

3. 3. The spray gun according to claim 2, wherein the switch is provided at a position where it can be operated by the thumb of a hand gripping the handle portion when the handle portion is gripped by an operator.

4. The handle portion includes a protrusion that protrudes laterally, The spray gun according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the switch is provided on the protrusion.

5. The spray gun according to claim 4 , wherein the protrusion is located on a thumb side of a hand gripping the handle portion when the handle portion is gripped by an operator.

6. The spray gun according to claim 4 , wherein the protrusion is provided on only one side of the handle portion.

7. The spray gun according to claim 4 , wherein the protrusion is located in front of the handle and includes a hook portion for hooking the index finger and middle finger of a hand gripping the handle.

8. The spray gun according to claim 4 , wherein the protrusion is provided so that the ring finger and little finger of a hand gripping the handle are positioned below the protrusion.

9. The spray gun according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the switch is a push-button switch.

10. The spray gun according to claim 9, wherein the liquid is ejected from the ejection portion when the switch is pressed.

11. the switch includes a pressing portion having a pressing surface to be pressed by an operator's finger; The spray gun according to claim 9 , wherein the pressing surface is inclined with respect to a direction in which the liquid is ejected.

12. The spray gun according to claim 11, wherein the pressing surface is formed with a recess for receiving an operator's finger.

13. a gas flow path through which gas for ejecting the liquid flows; a valve that switches the gas flow path between a communication state in which the gas flow path is communicated and a non-communication state in which the gas flow path is not communicated, the valve is located within the protrusion; The spray gun of claim 4 , wherein the valve is coupled to and operated by the switch.

14. The valve includes an inlet through which the gas flows in and an outlet through which the gas flows out, the inlet is located on the side of the switch; 14. The spray gun of claim 13, wherein the outlet is located further from the switch than the inlet.

15. a needle for controlling the ejection of the liquid from the ejection portion; 14. The spray gun according to claim 13, wherein, when the switch is operated, the valve opens the gas flow path, the gas flows through the gas flow path, the pressure of the gas moves the needle, and the liquid is sprayed from the spray portion.

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