Working machine

Abstract

To provide a working machine capable of repeatedly returning a position and an angle of a handle to an original state.SOLUTION: According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a working machine including a working unit, a main body, a connector, and an operation unit, wherein the working unit is connected to the main body via the connector, the operation unit includes a handle and a fixing mechanism that fixes the handle to the connector, and the handle includes a marker that indicates a relative position and angle with respect to the connector.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a work machine. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Documents 1 and 2 disclose a portable work machine equipped with a U-shaped handle with grips on both sides.

[0003] The portable work machine described in Patent Document 2 discloses a structure in which a U-shaped handle is fastened and fixed to the main body operating rod. This structure allows the operator to fix the handle in a desired position. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2015-050985 [Patent Document 2] Publication No. 1-32511 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, with the portable working machines disclosed in Patent Documents 1 and 2, if the position or angle of the handle is changed when storing, transporting, etc., it is difficult to return the handle to the same position again.

[0006] In view of the above circumstances, the present invention provides a work machine in which the position and angle of the handle can be repeatedly returned to the original state. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a work machine comprising a working unit, a main body unit, a connection unit, and an operating unit, wherein the working unit is connected to the main body unit via the connection unit, the operating unit has a handle and a fixing mechanism for fixing the handle to the connection unit, and the handle is provided with a marker indicating its position and angle relative to the connection unit.

[0008] According to this aspect, the position and angle of the handle can be repeatedly returned to the original state. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the brush cutter as seen from above. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is an overall view of the brush cutter seen from above. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the fixing mechanism as seen from above. [Figure 4] 2 is an enlarged perspective view of the handle shown in area A in FIG. 1, as viewed from above. FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a marker provided on a handle. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the brush cutter as seen from above, showing the adjustment direction of the handle position and angle. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is an enlarged perspective view showing the positional relationship between the fixing mechanism and the handle, for explaining adjustment of the handle position. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is an enlarged perspective view showing the positional relationship between the fixing mechanism and the handle, for explaining the angle adjustment of the handle. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the brush cutter with the handle stored, as viewed from above. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] Hereinafter, an example of an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Various features shown in the following embodiment can be combined with each other.

[0011] 1. Overall structure In Chapter 1, a work machine 1 according to one embodiment will be described.

[0012] Fig. 1 is a perspective view of the brush cutter as seen from above. Fig. 2 is an overall view of the brush cutter as seen from above. Fig. 3 is a perspective view of the fixing mechanism as seen from above. Fig. 4 is an enlarged perspective view of the handle shown in area A in Fig. 1 as seen from above. Fig. 5 is a diagram for explaining markers provided on the handle.

[0013] In the following description, the directions of the brush cutter 10 and the components that make up the brush cutter 10 will be defined based on the terms "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "front," and "rear" shown in Figures 1 to 5 (as well as Figures 6 to 9). Furthermore, in the following description, "upper" will also be referred to as "upper side" or "upward," and "lower" will also be referred to as "lower side" or "downward." The direction formed by "upper" and "lower" will also be referred to as "upper" or "upper / lower direction." The same applies to "left," "right," "front," and "rear."

[0014] (Work machine 1) The work machine 1 shown in FIG. 1 is a portable brush cutter 10. This work machine 1, or brush cutter 10, includes a working unit 2, a main body 3, a connection unit 4, and an operating unit 5. The brush cutter 10 is a shoulder-strap type brush cutter that uses an engine as its power source. Although the work machine 1 is exemplified as a brush cutter 10, the work machine 1 can be applied to various machines in which the working unit 2 and the main body 3 are connected by the connection unit 4. Examples of other machines include blowers, edgers, pruners, cultivators, sweepers, and shaft hedge trimmers. The power source of the work machine 1 is not limited to an engine, and a motor or the like may also be used. Furthermore, the form of the work machine 1 is not limited to a shoulder-strap type, and it can also be a handheld type, a backpack type, or the like.

[0015] (Working section 2) As shown in Fig. 1, the working unit 2 is configured to connect to the connecting unit 4 in front of the main body 3 and the connecting unit 4. The working unit 2 includes a rotating unit 21, a nylon cord 22, and a cover 23.

[0016] The rotating part 21 has a substantially disk-like shape and is configured to rotate by the rotational power of the power source 32. The nylon cord 22 has a linear shape. The base end of the nylon cord 22 is wound around the rotating part 21 in the circumferential direction and fixed inside the rotating part 21, and the tip end of the nylon cord 22 extends from the rotating part 21 to the outer periphery so as to protrude outward from the rotating part 21. The nylon cord 22 is configured to be rotated at high speed together with the rotating part 21 so that when the nylon cord 22 comes into contact with grass or the like, it can cut the grass or the like. The cover 23 has a fan-like shape and is connected to the connecting part 4 behind the nylon cord 22. The cover 23 is configured to prevent pieces of grass or the like from flying directly toward the operator when the nylon cord 22 cuts the grass or the like. Although the example has been described in which a nylon cord 22 is used for the working part 2, this is not limited to this, and for example, a resin cord other than a nylon cord, a metal blade (such as a chip saw or shredder blade), a reciprocating blade, etc. may also be used.

[0017] (Main body 3) 1, the working unit 2 is connected to the main body 3 via a connection unit 4. The main body 3 includes a casing 31 and a power source 32.

[0018] The casing 31 has a box-like shape and is connected to the connecting part 4 on the rear side of the connecting part 4. The casing 31 has a space therein, and houses the power source 32 in this space.

[0019] The power source 32 is configured to generate rotational power. The rotational power generated by the power source 32 is transmitted to the rotating part 21 of the working part 2 via a drive transmission shaft 42 inside the connecting part 4. Specifically, the power source 32 is a known engine housed in the internal space of the casing 31. The engine may be set to any desired specifications (displacement, fuel tank size, etc.) taking into consideration the weight, workability, work continuity, etc. of the brush cutter 10. The drive transmission shaft 42 of the connecting part 4 will be described in detail later.

[0020] (Connection 4) As shown in FIG. 1 , the main body 3 and working unit 2 are connected via a connecting part 4. The connecting part 4 is configured so that its axis 4a extends in the front-rear direction, and is equipped with an operating rod 41 and a drive transmission shaft 42. The operating rod 41 is a pipe-shaped member that extends in the front-rear direction, and the drive transmission shaft 42 is inserted inside it. The drive transmission shaft 42 connects the rotating part 21 of the working unit 2 to the power source 32, and is configured so that power from the power source 32 can be transmitted to the working unit 2.

[0021] (Operation unit 5) 1, an operating unit 5 is attached to the connection unit 4. The operating unit 5 has a handle 51, a fixing mechanism 52 that fixes the handle 51 to the connection unit 4, a band attachment portion 53, and a shroud 54.

[0022] 1, the handle 51 has a substantially U-shape and is configured to be fixable to a fixing mechanism 52. The handle 51 is fixed to the rear side of the connection part 4 by the fixing mechanism 52. The handle 51 is a part that is held and operated by the operator's hand, and includes an extension part 511, a grip 512, a trigger lever 513, a lockout lever 514, and a main switch 515.

[0023] The extending portion 511 extends in a first direction intersecting with the axis 4a of the connecting portion 4, which extends in the front-rear direction, centered on the fixing mechanism 52. In other words, the first direction is a direction intersecting with the connecting portion 4 and also intersecting with the front-rear direction. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, specifically, the extending portion 511 has an axis 511a extending in the left-right direction as the first direction, and is connected to the fixing mechanism 52 so that the axis 511a substantially coincides with the longitudinal axis 521a of the shaft hole 521 provided in the fixing mechanism 52. In other words, the handle 51 is configured so that the axis 511a extends in the left-right direction (an example of the first direction).

[0024] The extension portion 511 is bent to make it easier for an operator to grasp the grip 512. Specifically, the extension portion 511 extending to the left from the fixing mechanism 52 extends approximately horizontally to the left for a predetermined length, curves, and extends diagonally upward, then extends approximately horizontally to the left, sharply curves, and extends upward. On the other hand, the extension portion 511 extending to the right from the fixing mechanism 52 extends approximately horizontally to the right for a predetermined length, curves, and extends upward. The extension portion 511 is provided with a grip 512a at the tip of its left side and a grip 512b at the tip of its right side, as the grip 512 that is directly grasped by the operator. The grip 512b is configured to be larger than the grip 512a, and a trigger lever 513, a lockout lever 514, and a main switch 515 are provided on the grip 512b.

[0025] The trigger lever 513 is disposed on the front side of the grip 512b, and is configured as an operating means for increasing or decreasing the rotation speed of the rotating part 21 and the nylon cord 22. In other words, the trigger lever 513 is configured to control the operation of the working part 2 via a drive switch (not shown). The worker can operate the trigger lever 513 while holding the grip 512b.

[0026] The lockout lever 514 is disposed on the rear side of the grip 512b and is configured to be displaceable relative to the trigger lever 513. Specifically, the lockout lever 514 is disposed so as to be able to freely protrude and retract from the grip 512b. When an operator grasps the grip 512b, the lockout lever 514 is pushed by the palm of the operator and retracts into the grip 512b. In this way, the lockout lever 514 and the trigger lever 513 are operatively connected within the grip 512b so that the trigger lever 513 can be operated only after the lockout lever 514 has been operated first.

[0027] The main switch 515 is disposed on the left side of the grip 512b and is configured to be able to switch the power source 32 between on and off. Specifically, when the main switch 515 is on, the engine serving as the power source 32 can be started, and the state of the started engine is maintained. When the main switch 515 is off, the started engine is stopped or the engine cannot be started.

[0028] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 2 , the handle 51 is provided with a marker M on the upper surface of the extension portion 511 of the handle 51, near the position where the fixing mechanism 52 is attached. This allows a pointer P provided on the fixing mechanism 52 to point to any position of the marker M. When the pointer P points to any position of the marker M, the relative position and angle of the handle 51 with respect to the connection portion 4 are indicated via the fixing mechanism 52. In other words, the handle 51 is provided with the marker M, which indicates the relative position and angle with respect to the connection portion 4 via the fixing mechanism 52. According to this aspect, since the marker M indicates the position and angle of the handle 51 with respect to the connection portion 4, if the position and angle of the handle 51 are changed during storage, transportation, etc., the position and angle of the handle 51 can be repeatedly returned to their original state. In other words, the position and angle of the handle 51 relative to the connection portion 4 can be determined by positioning the handle 51 relative to the fixing mechanism 52. Furthermore, according to this aspect, the position and angle of the handle 51 can be accurately adjusted in a short time to a user-friendly position and angle according to the operator's preference. That is, for example, when returning the handle to a desired position and angle, it is difficult to repeat the process with a handle that has a substantially uniform outer surface and does not have the marker M. In contrast, the handle 51 with the marker M allows the handle to be returned to its original position and angle accurately and quickly. As a result, the operator can always use the brush cutter 10 with the handle 51 at a position and angle that is easy to operate. The pointer P provided in the fixing mechanism 52 will be described in detail later.

[0029] As shown in FIG. 2, the marker M is specifically configured to be located on the left side of the fixing mechanism 52. In other words, when viewed from the rear, the handle 51 has the marker M on the left side of the axis 4a of the connection part 4. In this configuration, the position of the operator relative to the brush cutter 10 when placing the brush cutter 10 on the ground and adjusting the position and angle of the handle 51 can be the same as the position of the operator relative to the brush cutter 10 when lifting the brush cutter 10. As a result, after adjusting the position and angle of the handle 51, the operator can lift the brush cutter 10 without changing their position relative to the brush cutter 10, allowing for a smooth start to work.

[0030] 5, the marker M may include a plurality of position markers (unit markers) MP1 to MP5 and a plurality of angle markers (unit markers) MA1 to MA5. In this case, the position markers MP1 to MP5 are configured to indicate the position of the handle 51 in the left-right direction (an example of a first direction) relative to the connection part 4. The angle markers MA1 to MA5 are configured to indicate the position in the rotation direction about the axis 511a relative to the connection part 4. According to this embodiment, the position markers MP1 to MP5 (position markers MP) and the angle markers MA1 to MA5 (angle markers MA) can indicate the position and angle of the handle 51, respectively. As a result, the brush cutter 10 can be easily adjusted to a position and angle of the handle 51 that is easy to use in a short time. Below, the position markers MP1 to MP5 will be described in detail first, followed by the angle markers MA1 to MA5.

[0031] The position markers MP1 to MP5 are arranged along the left-right direction of the handle 51 to indicate the left-right position of the handle 51 (see FIG. 5). Specifically, from the left side of the handle 51, the position markers MP1, MP2, MP3, MP4, and MP5 are arranged in this order. The number of position markers MP is not limited to five, but it is preferable to provide about three to eight. In this case, the position markers MP are spaced at appropriate intervals so that they can be distinguished by the operator, thereby improving reproducibility. When applied to a smaller brush cutter, the number of position markers MP may be less than three, and the left and right ends of an angle marker MA (described later) may be used as two position markers MP.

[0032] At least some of the position markers MP1 to MP5 may be configured to indicate the direction in which the handle 51 can be displaced (slid). Specifically, as shown in FIG. 5, the position marker MP1, which is located on the leftmost side of the handle 51, is configured to indicate the direction in which the handle 51 can be displaced, that is, to the right from the position of the position marker MP1. More specifically, the position marker MP1, which has an arrow pointing to the right, indicates that the direction in which the handle 51 can be displaced is to the right from the position of the position marker MP1. The position marker MP1 may also be configured to indicate the left boundary of a recommended fixed position for the handle 51. In this manner, the operator can refer to the position marker MP1 as a recommended range that takes into account the left-right balance of the brush cutter 10.

[0033] Furthermore, the position marker MP5 located at the rightmost position of the handle 51 is configured to indicate the direction in which the handle 51 can be displaced, that is, to the left of the position marker MP5. Specifically, the position marker MP5 is shown with an arrow pointing left, indicating that the direction in which the handle 51 can be displaced is to the left of the position marker MP5. The position marker MP5 may also be configured to indicate the right boundary of a recommended fixed position for the handle 51. In this manner, the operator can refer to the position marker MP5 as a recommended range that takes into account the left-right balance of the brush cutter 10.

[0034] Furthermore, position marker MP3, located between position marker MP1 and position marker MP5, is configured to indicate the left and right directions from the position of position marker MP3 as the possible directions of displacement of handle 51. Specifically, position marker MP3, which is shown in a shape combining the right direction of the tip of an arrow with the left direction of the tip of an arrow, i.e., a diamond shape, indicates that the possible directions of displacement of handle 51 are either right or left from the position of position marker MP3. Note that position markers MP2 and MP4, located between position marker MP1, position marker MP3, and position marker MP5, respectively, are in intermediate positions and are therefore configured to indicate their positions without indicating directions.

[0035] As described above, the marker M includes a plurality of position markers (unit markers) MP1 to MP5. At least some of the plurality of position markers MP1 to MP5 are configured to indicate the directions in which the handle 51 can be displaced. According to this embodiment, the arrangement and shape of the plurality of position markers MP1 to MP5 indicate the directions in which the handle 51 can be displaced, making it possible to easily grasp the adjustment direction or adjustment range. As a result, the position of the handle 51 can be easily adjusted in a shorter time.

[0036] Furthermore, the position markers MP1 to MP5 are arranged at a predetermined interval G1 from one another. The predetermined interval G1 shown in FIG. 5 is 8.5 mm. In other words, the multiple position markers MP1 to MP5 are arranged at the predetermined interval G1. The predetermined interval G1 may be, for example, 3 to 20 mm, preferably 5 to 15 mm, and more preferably 7 to 10 mm. According to this embodiment, by arranging the multiple position markers MP1 to MP5 at the predetermined interval G1, the position of the handle 51 relative to the main body 3 can be finely adjusted in accordance with the predetermined interval G1. As a result, the position of the handle 51 can be easily adjusted in an even shorter time.

[0037] Meanwhile, the angle markers MA1 to MA5 are arranged on the upper surface of the handle 51 along the axial direction (circumferential direction) of the handle 51 so as to indicate the position in the rotational direction around the axis 511a of the handle 51 (see FIG. 5). Specifically, angle markers MA1, MA2, MA3, MA4, and MA5 are arranged in order from the front along the circumferential direction of the handle 51. The number of angle markers MA is not limited to five, but it is preferable to provide them in approximately three to eight locations. In this case, providing the angle markers MA at appropriate intervals improves reproducibility. The intervals between the angle markers MA are determined taking into consideration the outer diameter of the pipe of the handle 51, positions and areas that are easily visible to the operator, and the like. The line width of the angle markers MA may be uniform, but making only the central angle marker MA thicker improves visibility of the standard angle. 5, the central angle marker MA3 is indicated with a line width of 0.75 mm, and the other angle markers MA are indicated with a line width of 0.30 mm. This embodiment makes it possible to more clearly indicate the reference angle, i.e., the angle marker MA3.

[0038] Among the angle markers MA1 to MA5, the angle marker MA1 and the angle marker MA5 may be configured to indicate the directions in which the handle 51 can be displaced (rotated). Specifically, the angle marker MA1 may be configured to point backward from the position of the angle marker MA1, and the angle marker MA5 may be configured to point forward from the position of the angle marker MA5. In other words, the angle marker MA1 and the angle marker MA5 may be configured to indicate the boundaries of the backward and forward directions, respectively, that are recommended as fixing positions for the handle 51. In this embodiment, the operator can refer to the angle marker MA1 and the angle marker MA5 as the recommended range that takes into account the fore-aft balance of the brush cutter 10. As described above, the marker M includes multiple angle markers (unit markers) MA1 to MA5. At least some of the multiple angle markers MA1 to MA5 are configured to indicate the directions in which the handle 51 can be displaced. According to this embodiment, the position and shape of the angle markers MA1 to MA5 indicate the direction in which the handle 51 can be moved, making it easy to grasp the adjustment direction or adjustment range. As a result, the position of the handle 51 can be easily adjusted in a shorter time to improve the operability of the brush cutter 10.

[0039] The angle markers MA1 to MA5 are arranged at a predetermined interval G2 from one another. In other words, the multiple angle markers MA1 to MA5 are arranged at the predetermined interval G2. The predetermined interval G2 corresponds to a predetermined angle θ when the extension portion 511 rotates around the axis 511a, and is determined according to the outer diameter of the extension portion 511 on which the angle marker MA is marked. In the predetermined interval G2 shown in FIG. 5, the predetermined angle θ is 10°. The predetermined angle θ may be, for example, 3 to 20°, preferably 5 to 15°, and more preferably 7 to 12°. According to this embodiment, by arranging the multiple angle markers MA1 to MA5 at the predetermined interval G2, the angle of the handle 51 relative to the main body portion 3 can be finely adjusted using the predetermined angle θ as a guide. Setting the angle markers MA within the above-described range increases the repeatability of the predetermined position, and the angle of the handle 51 can be easily adjusted in a shorter time.

[0040] Furthermore, the markers M may include a standard marker MS. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 5, the standard marker MS may be indicated at the position where the position marker MP3 and the angle marker MA3 intersect. As a result, the standard marker MS indicates the approximate center of the position marker MP and the approximate center of the angle marker MA. In other words, the standard marker MS is configured to indicate the standard position of the handle 51 relative to the main body 3. In this embodiment, the standard position and angle of the handle 51 can be visually confirmed by the marker M. As a result, the handle 51 can be adjusted to a position and angle that is easy to use on the brush cutter 10 based on the standard position and angle. The standard position and angle may be determined based on an adult, who is expected to be the operator.

[0041] 1, the fixing mechanism 52 is attached to the connection part 4 via a shroud 54, and is disposed at a position between the working part 2 and the main body part 3. Note that the fixing mechanism 52 may also be attached to the connection part 4 without the shroud 54.

[0042] 3, the fixing mechanism 52 is composed of an upper member 52a and a lower member 52b that are separated from each other in the vertical direction. The upper member 52a and the lower member 52b are fixed together by a fastening member 522 and two screws 523. Specifically, the shaft portion of the fastening member 522 is inserted into through holes provided in the upper member 52a and the lower member 52b, respectively, and is screwed into a screw hole provided in the shroud 54. In this way, the fixing mechanism 52 is fixed to the connecting portion 4 via the shroud 54. Furthermore, the shaft portion of the screw 523 is inserted into a through hole provided in the upper member 52a and is screwed into a screw hole provided in the lower member 52b.

[0043] Furthermore, in fixing mechanism 52, upper member 52a and lower member 52b are combined to form axial hole 521. Shaft hole 521 is formed so that handle 51 can be inserted along shaft 521a. Shaft hole 521 is configured so that its inner diameter can be adjusted by adjusting the fastening of fastening member 522 and two screws 523. As a result, fixing mechanism 52 is configured so that handle 51 inserted into axial hole 521 is fixed when the inner diameter of axial hole 521 is narrow (reduced diameter state), and so that handle 51 is released from the fixed state when the inner diameter of axial hole 521 is wide (expanded diameter state). Furthermore, fixing mechanism 52 is configured so that handle 51 can be moved within axial hole 521 when handle 51 is released from the fixed state.

[0044] Furthermore, fixing mechanism 52 is configured so that, with two screws 523 fastened at predetermined positions, the fixation of handle 51 can be released by loosening fastening member 522, and conversely, handle 51 can be fixed by fastening fastening member 522. Fastening member 522 is configured so that it can be tightened or loosened by gripping and rotating its upper portion without using a tool.

[0045] Furthermore, the fixing mechanism 52 is provided with a pointer P near the shaft hole 521. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 3, the fixing mechanism 52 is provided with the pointer P on the left side surface of the upper member 52a, above the shaft 521a of the shaft hole 521. Furthermore, the pointer P is configured to protrude leftward from the left side surface of the upper member 52a. According to this embodiment, the pointer P can be easily seen even when the worker views the pointer P from an angle close to directly above. As a result, the operation of aligning the angle marker MA with the pointer P can be facilitated.

[0046] The band attachment part 53 is attached to the shroud 54 and is disposed between the main body 3 and the fixing mechanism 52. The band attachment part 53 is configured so that its position in the front-rear and circumferential directions relative to the shroud 54 can be adjusted. The band attachment part 53 is also configured so that a hook provided on a shoulder strap (not shown) can be attached to it. By wearing the shoulder strap and attaching the hook of the shoulder strap to the band attachment part 53, an operator can lift the brush cutter 10 via the shoulder strap. Furthermore, by adjusting the position of the band attachment part 53 relative to the shroud 54 in the front-rear and circumferential directions, the operator can lift the brush cutter 10 to a position that is comfortable for the operator.

[0047] The shroud 54 is a pipe-shaped member extending in the front-rear direction, and the connection portion 4 is inserted therein. In other words, the shroud 54 is disposed so as to cover the connection portion 4. The shroud 54 has a front end portion 54a on the front side and a rear end portion 54b on the rear side. The front end portion 54a is box-shaped and protrudes upward from the connection portion 4. A fixing mechanism 52 is provided on the upper surface of the front end portion 54a. The rear end portion 54b is connected to the main body portion 3. It is preferable to provide vibration-damping members (not shown) between the shroud 54 and the main body portion 3 and between the shroud 54 and the connection portion 4. This makes it possible to damp vibrations from the main body portion 3 and the connection portion 4.

[0048] 2. How to adjust the position and angle of the handle 51 Next, a method for adjusting the position and angle of the handle 51 of the brush cutter 10 will be described with reference to other figures. Fig. 6 is a perspective view of the brush cutter seen from above, showing the direction in which the handle position and angle can be adjusted. Fig. 7 is an enlarged perspective view showing the positional relationship between the fixing mechanism and the handle, for explaining adjustment of the handle position. Fig. 8 is an enlarged perspective view showing the positional relationship between the fixing mechanism and the handle, for explaining adjustment of the handle angle. Note that directions L, R, F, and B shown in Figs. 7 and 8 correspond to directions L, R, F, and B shown in Fig. 6, respectively.

[0049] [1] First, adjust the length of the shoulder strap (not shown) appropriately. Then, place the shoulder strap on your shoulder.

[0050] [2] Next, the fastening member 522 of the fixing mechanism 52 is loosened to release the fastening of the handle 51. Specifically, the fastening member 522 is loosened by gripping and rotating the upper part of the fastening member 522. Then, the position and angle of the handle 51 are appropriately adjusted. As shown in FIG. 6 , specifically, while holding the grip 512, the operator moves the grip 512 in any one of directions L, R, F, and B to adjust the position and angle of the handle 51. Note that directions L and R are directions in which the handle 51 moves left and right along the axis 511a of the handle 51, and directions F and B are directions in which the handle 51 moves by rotating around the axis 511a.

[0051] Specifically, the direction L and the direction R are adjusted with reference to the positional relationship between the pointer P of the fixing mechanism 52 and the position marker MP of the handle 51. The direction F and the direction B are also adjusted with reference to the positional relationship between the pointer P of the fixing mechanism 52 and the angle marker MA of the handle 51. Below, first, the details of the adjustment of the direction L and the direction R will be described, and then the details of the adjustment of the direction F and the direction B will be described.

[0052] 7 shows a state in which the handle 51 is adjusted in direction L or direction R. Note that the direction F and direction B of the handle 51 are positioned in the center. In other words, the pointer P and the angle marker MA3 are positioned so as to overlap each other.

[0053] 7A, by moving handle 51 in direction R relative to fixing mechanism 52, pointer P and position marker MP1 are positioned so as to overlap. By positioning pointer P and position marker MP1 so as to overlap, it can be understood that handle 51 has been moved to the rightmost position relative to fixing mechanism 52. Specifically, since position marker MP1 is configured to indicate the right direction from the position of position marker MP1 as the direction in which handle 51 can be displaced, it can be understood that the state in FIG. 7A is a state in which handle 51 has been moved to the rightmost position relative to fixing mechanism 52.

[0054] 7B, from the state in FIG. 7A, by moving the handle 51 in direction L relative to the fixing mechanism 52, the pointer P and the position marker MP3 are positioned so as to overlap. That is, the pointer P and the standard marker MS are positioned so as to overlap. By positioning the pointer P so as to overlap the standard marker MS (position marker MP3), it can be understood that the handle 51 has been adjusted to a standard position relative to the fixing mechanism 52.

[0055] 7C , by further moving the handle 51 in the direction L relative to the fixing mechanism 52 from the state in FIG. 7B , the pointer P and the position marker MP5 are positioned so as to overlap. By positioning the pointer P and the position marker MP5 so as to overlap, it can be understood that the handle 51 has moved to the leftmost position relative to the fixing mechanism 52. Specifically, the position marker MP5 is configured to indicate the leftward direction from the position of the position marker MP5 as the direction in which the handle 51 can be displaced, and therefore it can be understood that the state in FIG. 7C is a state in which the handle 51 has moved to the leftmost position relative to the fixing mechanism 52. Note that in the above description, an example has been given in which the direction L and the direction R are adjusted with reference to the positional relationship between the pointer P of the fixing mechanism 52 and the position marker MP of the handle 51. However, the direction L and the direction R may also be adjusted with reference to the positional relationship between the side surface of the upper member 52a of the fixing mechanism 52 (more specifically, the left side surface near the shaft hole 521) and the position marker MP of the handle 51.

[0056] In this manner, the handle 51 can be adjusted in the directions L and R. Next, the adjustment in the directions F and B will be described in detail.

[0057] 8 shows a state in which the handle 51 is adjusted in direction F or direction B. Note that the direction L and direction R of the handle 51 are positioned in the center, i.e., the pointer P and the position marker MP3 are positioned so as to overlap each other.

[0058] First, in Fig. 8A, by moving the handle 51 in direction B relative to the fixing mechanism 52, the pointer P is positioned so as to overlap with the angle marker MA1. By positioning the pointer P so as to overlap with the angle marker MA1, it can be understood that the handle 51 has been moved to the rearmost position relative to the fixing mechanism 52. Note that when the handle 51 is moved in direction B beyond the angle marker MA1, there is no angle marker MA that overlaps with the pointer P. This makes it possible to understand that the state in Fig. 8A is a state in which the handle 51 has been moved to the rearmost position in the rotation direction relative to the fixing mechanism 52.

[0059] Next, in Fig. 8B, by moving handle 51 in direction F relative to fixing mechanism 52 from the state in Fig. 8A, pointer P and angle marker MA3 are positioned so as to overlap. That is, pointer P and standard marker MS are positioned so as to overlap. By positioning pointer P so as to overlap standard marker MS (angle marker MA3), it can be recognized that handle 51 has been adjusted to a standard position (angle) relative to fixing mechanism 52.

[0060] 8C, by further moving handle 51 in direction F relative to fixing mechanism 52 from the state in FIG. 8B, pointer P is positioned so as to overlap angle marker MA5. By positioning pointer P so as to overlap angle marker MA5, it can be understood that handle 51 has moved to the most forward position relative to fixing mechanism 52. Note that when handle 51 is moved in direction F beyond angle marker MA5, no angle marker MA overlaps with pointer P. This makes it possible to understand that the state in FIG. 8C is a state in which handle 51 has moved to the most forward position in the rotation direction relative to fixing mechanism 52.

[0061] In this manner, the handle 51 can be adjusted in the direction F and the direction B.

[0062] [3] Specifically, if the worker does not know the preferred position and angle of the handle 51, first, the handle 51 is adjusted so that the pointer P overlaps the standard marker MS. In other words, the handle 51 is adjusted to the standard position.

[0063] [4] Then, the fastening member 522 of the fixing mechanism 52 is tightened to fix the handle 51 in place.

[0064] [5] Next, adjust the front-to-rear and circumferential positions of the band attachment portion 53 as needed so that the brush cutter 10 can be lifted to a position that is convenient for work.

[0065] [6] Then, lift up the brush cutter 10 and check the working posture of the brush cutter 10 and the position of the handle 51.

[0066] [7] Readjust as necessary. Specifically, place the brush cutter 10 back on the ground and adjust the position and angle of the handle 51 and the front-to-rear and circumferential positions of the band attachment portion 53 as appropriate. In this case, to adjust the position and angle of the handle 51, lift the brush cutter 10 and check the direction of the handle 51 you want to adjust, i.e., adjust the handle 51 in one of directions L, R, F, and B. More specifically, make the adjustment with reference to the positional relationship between the pointer P of the fixing mechanism 52 and the marker M on the handle 51. For example, to adjust in direction R, adjust the handle 51 relative to the fixing mechanism 52 so that the pointer P and the position marker MP1 overlap. Once the adjustment of the position and angle of the handle 51 relative to the fixing mechanism 52 is complete, tighten the fastening member 522 of the fixing mechanism 52 to fix the handle 51. In this way, the handle 51 is adjusted to a position and angle that is easy to use.

[0067] According to this embodiment, even if the operator does not know the preferred position and angle of the handle 51, the handle 51 can be easily adjusted to a standard position and angle. Furthermore, the position and angle of the handle 51 can be adjusted to a desired state in a short time using the standard position and angle as a reference. In other words, it is possible to reduce the number of times the brush cutter 10 needs to be lifted and lowered, thereby reducing the burden on the operator. In particular, in the case of a large work machine 1, which is very heavy, reducing the number of times it needs to be lifted and lowered can significantly reduce the burden on the operator.

[0068] 3. How to store the handle 51 and how to make it operable again Next, methods for storing the handle 51 and for returning the brush cutter to a working state will be described with reference to other figures. Fig. 9 is a perspective view of the brush cutter with the handle stored, viewed from above. Fig. 9 shows the brush cutter 10 in a state where the handle 51 is stored compactly (particularly when folded compactly in vertical and horizontal dimensions) for storage, transportation, etc. In this example, the brush cutter 10 is assumed to have a preferred position and angle for the handle 51.

[0069] [1] First, a method for changing the brush cutter 10 from the state shown in FIG. 1 in which it is ready for use to the state shown in FIG. 9 in which the handle 51 is stored will be described.

[0070] [2] First, the fastening member 522 of the fixing mechanism 52 is loosened to release the fixation of the handle 51.

[0071] [3] Next, operation S1 is performed to rotate the handle 51 and the fixing mechanism 52 clockwise around the axis of the fastening member 522, as viewed from above. The angle of the clockwise rotation is approximately 90°.

[0072] [4] Subsequently, operation S2 is performed to move the grip 512 of the handle 51 downward around the shaft 521a of the fixing mechanism 52 (see FIG. 3).

[0073] [5] Then, the fastening member 522 of the fixing mechanism 52 is tightened to fix the handle 51 in place.

[0074] According to this embodiment, the handle 51 of the brush cutter 10 can be easily stored. As a result, the brush cutter 10 can be stored, carried, etc. without requiring a large amount of space.

[0075] [6] Next, a method for fixing the handle 51 from the stored state to a state in which the brush cutter 10 can be used for work will be described.

[0076] [7] First, the fastening member 522 of the fixing mechanism 52 is loosened to release the fixation of the handle 51 in the stored position.

[0077] [8] Next, the grip 512 of the handle 51 is moved upward around the shaft 521a (see FIG. 3) of the fixing mechanism 52. That is, the operation is the reverse of the operation S2.

[0078] [9] Next, when viewed from above, the handle 51 and the fixing mechanism 52 are rotated counterclockwise around the axis of the fastening member 522. That is, the operation is the reverse of operation S1. The angle of the counterclockwise rotation is approximately 90°.

[0079]

[10] Then, the positional relationship between the pointer P of the fixing mechanism 52 and the position marker MP of the handle 51 is adjusted so that the handle 51 is at the desired position and angle. Specifically, for example, the position and angle of the handle 51 are adjusted so that the pointer P and the standard marker MS overlap (see FIG. 7B).

[0080] On the other hand, with the portable work machines disclosed in the aforementioned Patent Documents 1 and 2, in order to adjust the handle position and angle to a preferred position, the worker must lift the portable work machine and rely on the working posture that the worker remembers to recreate that position. In other words, in order to adjust the handle position and angle to a preferred position, the worker must lift the portable work machine. Furthermore, because the worker relies on the working posture that the worker remembers to adjust the handle position and angle to a preferred position, it is difficult to recreate the preferred state.

[0081]

[11] Finally, the fastening member 522 of the fixing mechanism 52 is tightened to fix the handle 51 in place.

[0082] According to this embodiment, the marker M indicates the position and angle of the handle 51 relative to the connecting portion 4, so that if the position and angle of the handle 51 are changed when storing, transporting, or the like, the position and angle of the handle 51 can be repeatedly returned to their original state. Furthermore, according to this embodiment, when the handle has been moved from a desired position and angle and needs to be fixed back to the desired position and angle, it can be easily reproduced in a short time. Also, regarding the position and angle of the handle 51, the operator can know the desired position and angle in advance, and there is no need to lift the brush cutter 10 to adjust the position and angle of the handle 51, thereby reducing the burden on the operator. In particular, in the case of a large work machine 1, the weight of the work machine 1 is very heavy, so reducing the number of times the work machine 1 needs to be lifted and lowered can significantly reduce the burden on the operator.

[0083] [others] The brush cutter 10 according to one embodiment may be implemented in the following manner.

[0084] In the above embodiment, the case has been described as an example in which the pointer P is arranged on the left side of the fixing mechanism 52, and the marker M is arranged near the position of the pointer P when the fixing mechanism 52 is attached to the extension portion 511, but this is not limiting. For example, the pointer P may be arranged on the right side of the fixing mechanism 52, and the marker M may be arranged near the position of the pointer P when the fixing mechanism 52 is attached to the extension portion 511. Furthermore, the upper member 52a of the fixing mechanism 52 may have a through-hole extending from top to bottom, so that the positional relationship between the pointer P provided inside the through-hole and the marker M can be grasped.

[0085] In the above embodiment, the case where the pointer P protrudes leftward from the left side surface of the upper member 52a of the fixing mechanism 52 has been described as an example, but this is not limiting. For example, the pointer P may be a sticker or other object without any irregularities. Specifically, it is preferable to provide an inclined portion on the fixing mechanism 52 and attach a sticker to that portion as the pointer P.

[0086] Furthermore, it may be provided in the following aspects.

[0087] (1) A work machine comprising a working unit, a main body unit, a connection unit, and an operating unit, wherein the working unit is connected to the main body unit via the connection unit, the operating unit has a handle and a fixing mechanism for fixing the handle to the connection unit, and the handle is provided with a marker that indicates its position and angle relative to the connection unit.

[0088] According to this aspect, the marker indicates the position and angle of the handle relative to the connection part, so that if the position or angle of the handle is changed when storing, transporting, etc., the position and angle of the handle can be repeatedly returned to their original state.

[0089] (2) The work machine described in (1) above, wherein the marker includes a plurality of unit markers, and the plurality of unit markers are arranged at predetermined intervals.

[0090] According to this aspect, by arranging the plurality of unit markers at predetermined intervals, the position and angle of the handle relative to the main body can be finely adjusted according to the predetermined intervals, which makes it possible to adjust the position of the handle more easily and in a shorter time.

[0091] (3) In the work machine described in (1) or (2) above, the handle is configured such that its axis extends in a first direction, wherein the first direction is a direction intersecting the connection part, and the markers include a position marker and an angle marker, the position marker is configured to indicate a position in the first direction relative to the connection part, and the angle marker is configured to indicate a position in a rotational direction about the axis relative to the connection part.

[0092] According to this aspect, the position and angle of the handle can be indicated by the position marker and the angle marker, respectively, and as a result, the handle position and angle of the work machine can be easily adjusted to a user-friendly position and angle in a shorter time.

[0093] (4) A work machine according to any one of (1) to (3) above, wherein the marker includes a standard marker, and the standard marker is configured to indicate a standard position of the handle relative to the main body.

[0094] According to this aspect, the standard position and angle of the handle can be visually confirmed by the marker, and as a result, the handle position and angle of the work machine can be adjusted to an easy-to-use position based on the standard position.

[0095] (5) A work machine according to any one of (1) to (4) above, wherein the connection part is configured so that its axis extends in the fore-and-aft direction, the handle is configured so that its axis extends in a first direction that intersects with the fore-and-aft direction, and when viewed from the rear side, the marker is provided on the left side of the axis of the connection part.

[0096] According to this aspect, the position of the worker relative to the work machine when placing the work machine on the ground and adjusting the position and angle of the handle and the position of the worker relative to the work machine when lifting the work machine can be on the same side. As a result, after adjusting the position and angle of the handle, the worker can lift the work machine without changing his or her position relative to the work machine, allowing work to be started smoothly.

[0097] (6) A work machine according to any one of (1) to (5) above, wherein the marker includes a plurality of unit markers, and at least some of the unit markers are configured to indicate directions in which the handle can be displaced.

[0098] According to this aspect, the arrangement and shape of the unit markers indicate the direction in which the handle can be displaced, making it easy to grasp the adjustment direction or adjustment range, and as a result, the handle position can be easily adjusted in a shorter time.

[0099] (7) The working machine according to any one of (1) to (6) above, which is a brush cutter, a blower, an edger, a pruner, a cultivator, a sweeper, or a shaft hedge trimmer.

[0100] According to this aspect, work can be performed using a brush cutter, blower, edger, pruner, cultivator, sweeper or shaft hedge trimmer in which the handle can be easily adjusted to a position and angle that is easy to use in a short amount of time. Of course, this is not the case.

[0101] Finally, while various embodiments of the present invention have been described, these are presented by way of example only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. The novel embodiments may be embodied in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. Such embodiments and modifications are intended to be included within the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as within the scope of the inventions and their equivalents as defined in the accompanying claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0102] 1: Work equipment 10: Brush cutter 2: Working section 21: Rotating part 22: Nylon cord 23: Cover 3: Main body 31: Casing 32:Power source 4: Connection part 4a: Axis 41: Control rod 42: Drive transmission shaft 5:Operation section 51: Handle 511: Extension part 511a: Axis 512: Grip 512a: Grip 512b: Grip 513: Trigger lever 514: Lockout lever 515: Main switch 52:Fixing mechanism 52a: Upper member 52b: Lower member 521: Shaft hole 521a: Axis 522: Fastening member 523: Screw 53: Band attachment part 54: Shroud 54a: Front end 54b: Rear end A :Area G1: Predetermined interval G2: Predetermined interval M: Marker MA: Angle marker MA1: Angle marker MA2: Angle marker MA3: Angle marker MA4: Angle marker MA5: Angle marker MP: Position Marker MP1: Position marker MP2: Position marker MP3: Position Marker MP4: Position Marker MP5: Position marker MS: Standard marker P: pointer L: Direction R: Direction F :Direction B :Direction S1: Operation S2: Operation θ: specified angle

Claims

1. A work machine, The device includes a working unit, a main body unit, a connection unit, and an operation unit. the working unit is connected to the main body unit via the connecting unit, the operating portion includes a handle and a fixing mechanism that fixes the handle to the connecting portion, The handle is provided with a marker that indicates the relative position and angle with respect to the connection portion.

2. The work machine according to claim 1, the marker includes a plurality of unit markers; The plurality of unit markers are arranged at predetermined intervals.

3. The work machine according to claim 1, the handle is configured such that its axis extends in a first direction, the first direction being transverse to the connecting portion; the markers include position markers and angle markers; the position marker is configured to indicate a position in the first direction relative to the connection portion; The angle marker is configured to indicate a rotational position about the axis relative to the connection portion.

4. The work machine according to claim 1, the markers include standard markers; A work machine, wherein the standard marker is configured to indicate a standard position of the handle relative to the main body.

5. The work machine according to claim 1, The connecting portion is configured such that its axis extends in the front-rear direction, A work machine wherein the handle is configured such that its axis extends in a first direction intersecting the front-to-rear direction, and the marker is provided on the left side of the axis of the connection portion when viewed from the rear side.

6. The work machine according to claim 1, the marker includes a plurality of unit markers; A work machine, wherein at least some of the plurality of unit markers are configured to indicate displaceable directions of the handle.

7. The work machine according to claim 1, A work implement which is a brushcutter, blower, edger, pruner, cultivator, sweeper or shaft hedge trimmer.

Images