Electrical equipment for construction sites

Abstract

This technology provides a way to reduce the force required for users to operate switches in electrical equipment used in the field. [Solution] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a field electrical device comprising a first switch, a first manual operating unit, and a support. The first switch has a first movable piece that is movable in a first direction. The first manual operating unit comprises a first operating body and a first arm. The first operating body is spaced apart from the first movable piece in a second direction. The second direction is opposite to the first direction. The first arm has a first end connected to the support and a second end connected to the first operating body. The first end is spaced apart from a first reference plane in a first direction. The first reference plane is a hypothetical plane perpendicular to the first direction and passing through the second end.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to on-site electrical equipment equipped with a manually operated switch.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a power tool equipped with a button switch. In this power tool, a switch portion is disposed directly above the button switch. The button switch is operated by the switch portion in response to being pressed by the switch portion by the user of the power tool.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In such a power tool, it is desirable that the user can easily operate the button switch via the switch portion with an appropriate force. One aspect of the present disclosure aims to provide a technique for reducing the force required for a user to operate a switch in on-site electrical equipment.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] In this disclosure, terms such as “first,” “second,” etc., are intended merely to distinguish elements from one another and not to limit the order or number of elements. Therefore, the first element may be referred to as the second element, and similarly, the second element may be referred to as the first element. In addition, the first element may be present without the second element, and similarly, the second element may be present without the first element. Furthermore, in this disclosure, the expression “A, B, ... and / or Z” (where “A,” “B,” and “Z” are arbitrary words) means “at least one of A, B, ..., and Z.”

[0006] One aspect of this disclosure provides a field electrical device comprising a first switch, a first manual operating unit, and a support. The first switch has a first movable piece. The first movable piece moves in a first direction in response to a first load in a first direction.

[0007] The support unit supports the first manual operation unit. The first manual operation unit comprises a first operating body and a first arm. The first operating body is positioned spaced apart from the first movable piece in a second direction. The second direction is opposite to the first direction.

[0008] The first arm has a first end and a second end. The first end is connected to a support. The second end is connected to a first operating body. In the initial state, the first end is spaced apart from the first reference plane in a first direction. The initial state corresponds to the state in which the first manual operating unit is not manually operated. The first reference plane is a hypothetical plane perpendicular to the first direction and passing through the second end.

[0009] The first manual operation unit is displaced in the first direction in response to the first operating body being pushed in the first direction, thereby applying a first load from the first operating body to the first movable piece. In this type of field electrical equipment, the first end of the first arm is located on the first side of the second end. Therefore, the force required for the user to operate the switch can be reduced. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view of the field electrical equipment according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] This is an explanatory diagram showing the electrical configuration of the field electrical equipment according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] This is a perspective view of the switch unit and controller according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] This is an exploded perspective view of the switch unit according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] This is a perspective view of the switch plate according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] This is a partial top view of the switch unit of the first embodiment. [Figure 7] This is a perspective view of the VII-VII section in Figure 6. [Figure 8] This is a cross-sectional view of section VIII-VIII in Figure 6. [Figure 9] This is a cross-sectional view of section VIII-VIII when the operating body is pressed. [Figure 10] This is a perspective view of the field electrical equipment according to the second embodiment. [Figure 11] This is an explanatory diagram showing the electrical configuration of the field electrical equipment according to the second embodiment. [Figure 12] This is a perspective view of the switch unit and controller according to the second embodiment. [Figure 13] This is an exploded perspective view of the switch unit according to the second embodiment. [Figure 14] This is a top view of the switch unit according to the second embodiment. [Figure 15] Figure 14 is a perspective view of the XV-XV section. [Figure 16] This is a cross-sectional view of the XVI-XVI section in Figure 14. [Figure 17] This is a cross-sectional view of the XVI-XVI section when the control unit is pressed down. [Figure 18]Perspective view of the first housing and the switch unit in the non-assembled state of the second embodiment. [Figure 19] Perspective view of the partially assembled state in which the switch unit is inserted into the first housing of the second embodiment. [Figure 20] Perspective view for explaining that the second housing is assembled from the partially assembled state of the second embodiment. [Figure 21] Top view of the switch unit of the third embodiment. [Figure 22] Exploded perspective view of the switch unit of the third embodiment. [Figure 23] Perspective view of the XXIII-XXIII cross section in FIG. 21. [Figure 24] Explanatory drawing for explaining the structural features of the switch unit of the third embodiment. [Figure 25] Top view of the switch unit of the fourth embodiment. [Figure 26] Exploded perspective view of the switch unit of the fourth embodiment. [Figure 27] Perspective view of the XXVII-XXVII cross section in FIG. 25. [Figure 28] Explanatory drawing for explaining the structural features of the switch unit of the fourth embodiment. [Figure 29] Cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the switch unit.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0011] [1. Summary of Embodiments] A certain embodiment may provide an on-site electrical device including at least any one of the following. · Feature 1: First switch. · Feature 2: The first switch has a first movable piece (or a first movable part, or a first push rod, or a first actuator). · Feature 3: The first movable piece is configured to move in a first direction. Feature 4: The first movable piece is configured to move in the first direction in response to a first load in the first direction. Feature 5: First manual control unit. The first manual control unit may be configured to be operated manually by the user of the field electrical equipment. Feature 6: Supporting material. Feature 7: The support structure supports the first manual operation section. Feature 8: The first manual operation unit is equipped with the first operation body (or first button). Feature 9: The first operating body is positioned spaced apart from the first movable piece in the second direction. The first operating body may be configured to be operated manually by the user (for example, by being pushed in the first direction). Feature 10: The second direction is the opposite of the first direction. Feature 11: The first manual operation unit is equipped with a first arm. Feature 12: The first arm has a first end. Feature 13: The first end is connected to a support. Feature 14: The first arm has a second end. Feature 15: The second end is connected to the first operating body. Feature 16: In the first initial state, the first end is spaced apart from the first reference plane in the first direction. Feature 17: The first initial state is when the first manual operation unit is not operated manually. Feature 18: The first reference plane is a hypothetical plane that is perpendicular to the first direction and passes through the second end. Feature 19: The first manual operating section is configured to be displaced in the first direction in response to the first operating body being pushed in the first direction. Feature 20: The first manual operating section is configured to displace in a first direction in response to the first operating body being pushed in a first direction, thereby applying a first load from the first operating body to the first movable piece. The first operating body may be configured to directly or indirectly contact the first movable piece, thereby applying the first load to the first movable piece.

[0012] In field electrical equipment possessing at least features 1 to 20, the first end of the first arm is located on the first side of the second end. Therefore, the force required for the user to operate the first switch can be reduced.

[0013] The first operating body may be configured to be pressed directly by the user. The first operating body may be configured to be indirectly pressed by the user. Specifically, a first predetermined member (e.g., a cover or membrane) may be positioned on the second side of the first operating body. The first predetermined member may then be pressed by the user, thereby pressing the first operating body from the first predetermined member. In other words, the first operating body may be indirectly pressed by the user via the first predetermined member.

[0014] The first switch may include electrical contacts. The electrical contacts may be configured to close or open in response to the first movable piece being moved in a first direction (or moved by a certain distance or more). The first switch may be configured to operate in a so-called momentary manner or in a so-called alternate manner.

[0015] The first movable piece may be in its initial position in the first initial state. The first movable piece may be configured to move from its initial position in the first direction (or move by a certain distance or more) in response to a first load in the first direction.

[0016] The first arm may extend in any manner from the first operating body. The first arm may have a long, narrow, plate-like (or rod-like) shape. The distance from the first reference plane to the first arm may increase continuously or intermittently from the second end to the first end. There may be a portion between the second end and the first end where the distance from the first reference plane is shorter.

[0017] The first end of the first arm may be defined as the entire portion that can be considered as the boundary with the support, or as a predetermined range or position within that portion. Specifically, the first end of the first arm may be defined as the entire connecting surface (i.e., cross-section) that is connected to the support, or as a predetermined range or position within that connecting surface (for example, an end or intermediate position in the first direction).

[0018] The second end of the first arm may be defined as the entire portion that can be considered as the boundary with the first operating body, or as a predetermined range or position within that portion. Specifically, the second end of the first arm may be defined as the entire connection surface (i.e., cross-section) with the first operating body, or as a predetermined range or position within that connection surface (for example, an end or intermediate position in the first direction).

[0019] The first operating body, the first arm, and the support may be integrally molded. In other words, the integrally molded product described later may include at least two of the first operating body, the first arm, and the support.

[0020] One embodiment may include, in addition to or instead of, at least one of the features 1 to 20 described above, at least one of the following: Feature 21: The first movable piece has a surface configured to be in contact with the first operating body and thereby receive the first load. Feature 22: In the first initial state, the distance from the first reference plane to the first end of the first arm (or to the end in the first direction at the first end) is greater than or equal to the distance from the first reference plane to the surface.

[0021] In field electrical equipment possessing at least features 1 to 22, the force vector applied from the first operating body to the surface of the first movable piece can be made to coincide with or approach the first direction. This allows the force applied by the user to the first operating body to be efficiently applied to the first movable piece.

[0022] In Feature 22, "distance to the surface" may be rephrased as "distance to the position on the surface where the first operating body makes contact." One embodiment may include, in addition to or instead of, at least one of the above-described features 1 to 22: Feature 23: The first manual operation unit is configured to be displaced in the first direction, with the first end of the first arm as a pivot point, in response to the first operation body being pushed in the first direction.

[0023] In field electrical equipment possessing at least features 1-20,23, the force vector applied from the first operating body to the surface of the first movable piece can be made to coincide with or approach the first direction. This allows the force applied by the user to the first operating body to be efficiently applied to the first movable piece.

[0024] The displacement of the first manual operating unit in a first direction with the first end of the first arm as a pivot point can be rephrased as the displacement of the first operating body in a first direction with the first end of the first arm as a pivot point. The first manual operation unit may be configured such that the direction of movement of the first operation body at the moment when a load is first applied from the first operation body to the first movable piece coincides with or approaches the first direction.

[0025] The pivot point (i.e., the first end of the first arm) may be configured not to move from the time the first operating body is pushed until a load begins to be applied to the first movable piece, or it may be configured to move slightly.

[0026] One embodiment may include, in addition to or instead of, at least one of the features 1 to 23 described above, at least one of the following: Feature 24: The first arm comprises a first starting portion. Feature 25: The first starting portion corresponds to the portion of the first arm that extends from the first end of the first arm in the first starting direction when the first arm is viewed in the first direction (i.e., a portion including the first end). Feature 26: The first arm comprises a first continuation portion. Feature 27: The first continuation portion corresponds to the portion of the first arm that extends in the first continuation direction from the tip of the first initiation portion (i.e., the end opposite to the first end) when the first arm is viewed in the first direction. The first continuation portion may include the second end of the first arm. Feature 28: The first extension continuation direction is different from the first extension initiation direction.

[0027] In field electrical equipment possessing at least features 1-20 and 24-28, the length of the first arm can be increased, thereby reducing the force required by the user to move the first movable piece. In addition, the space around the first arm can be used more efficiently compared to when the entire first arm is straight.

[0028] The first extension initiation direction may be rephrased as the direction extending from the first end of the first arm when the first arm is viewed from outside the first arm in a direction perpendicular to the reference plane. The direction perpendicular to the reference plane is the direction perpendicular to the first reference plane. Alternatively, the first extension initiation direction may be rephrased as the component (or vector component) of the direction in which the first arm extends from its first end (or the vector in that direction) that is parallel to the first reference plane.

[0029] The first extension direction may be rephrased as the direction in which the first extension portion extends from the tip of the first starting portion, when the first arm is viewed from outside the first arm in a direction perpendicular to the reference plane. Alternatively, the first extension direction may be rephrased as the component (or vector component) of the direction in which the first extension portion extends from the tip of the first starting portion that is parallel to the first reference plane.

[0030] One embodiment may include, in addition to or instead of, at least one of the features 1 to 28 described above, at least one of the following: Feature 29: The width of the first arm is more than twice the thickness of the first arm. Feature 30: The width is the length of the first arm in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the first arm extends and parallel to the first reference plane. Feature 31: The thickness is the length of the first arm in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the first arm extends and perpendicular to the width.

[0031] In field electrical equipment having at least features 1-20, 29-31, the first arm is prevented from twisting (i.e., displaced in a rotational direction with the extending direction as the axis of rotation) when the first operating body is pressed by the user.

[0032] One embodiment may include, in addition to or instead of, at least one of the features 1 to 31 described above, at least one of the following: Feature 32: The support has a first opening. Feature 33: The first opening penetrates in a direction perpendicular to the first reference plane. Feature 34: The first manual operation unit is located within the first opening. Feature 35: Light emitter. Feature 36: The light emitters are positioned spaced apart from the first aperture in the first direction. Feature 37: The light emitter is configured to emit light through the first aperture.

[0033] Field electrical equipment possessing at least features 1-20, 32-37 can reduce the space required for locating the first switch and light emitter. The first manual control unit may be positioned to partially block the first opening. The light emitter may be configured to emit light in at least a second direction. Some or all of the light emitted in the second direction may be emitted outside the field electrical equipment through the first opening. The light emitter may have any form capable of emitting light. The light emitter may be used for illumination. The light emitter may be used to provide information. An example of a light emitter includes an LED.

[0034] One embodiment may include, in addition to or instead of, at least one of the features 1 to 37 described above, at least one of the following: Feature 38: The support is equipped with a first auxiliary arm. Feature 39: The first auxiliary arm extends from the first end of the first arm toward the first reference plane (i.e., toward the second direction, or a direction containing a component of the second direction). Feature 40: The first auxiliary arm has a first end connected to the first end of the first arm. Feature 41: The first auxiliary arm has a second end opposite to the first end of the first auxiliary arm.

[0035] In field electrical equipment possessing at least features 1-20, 38-41, the first arm can be easily displaced with its first end as the pivot point. The first operating body, the first arm, and the first auxiliary arm may be integrally molded. That is, the integrally molded product described later may include at least two of the first operating body, the first arm, and the first auxiliary arm. The second end of the first auxiliary arm may be connected to a predetermined part of the support.

[0036] One embodiment may include, in addition to or instead of, at least one of the above-described features 1 to 41: Feature 42: The distance from the first end of the first arm to the second end of the first arm in the direction along the first reference plane (i.e., the direction parallel to the first reference plane) is longer than the distance from the first end of the first auxiliary arm to the second end of the first auxiliary arm in the direction along the first reference plane.

[0037] In field electrical equipment having at least features 1-20, 38-42, the force vector applied from the first operating body to the surface of the first movable piece can be made to coincide with or approach the first direction.

[0038] One embodiment may include, in addition to or instead of, at least one of the above-described features 1 to 42: Feature 43: The angle with respect to the first reference plane in the direction in which the first arm extends from its first end is smaller than the angle with respect to the first reference plane in the direction in which the first auxiliary arm extends from its first end.

[0039] In field electrical equipment having at least features 1-20, 38-41, and 43, the force vector applied from the first operating body to the surface of the first movable piece can be made to coincide with or approach the first direction.

[0040] One embodiment may include, in addition to or instead of, at least one of the features 1 to 43 described above, at least one of the following: Feature 44: Equipped with a single molded part including a first arm and a first auxiliary arm. Feature 45: The integrally molded product has a bendable section. Feature 46: The bent section corresponds to the boundary between the first arm and the first auxiliary arm. Feature 47: The bent portion corresponds to the bent part in the integrally molded product. Feature 48: The first manual operating section is configured such that, in response to the first operating body being pushed in a first direction, the bending portion elastically deforms, thereby displacing the first operating body in a first direction.

[0041] The above feature 44 may also be rephrased as the first arm and the first auxiliary arm being integrally molded. In field electrical equipment having at least features 1-20, 38-41, and 44-48, the first arm can be easily displaced with its first end as a pivot point, and / or such a structure can be easily realized.

[0042] The integrally molded product may also include the first operating body. Elastic deformation of the bending portion can be rephrased as widening of the angle between the first arm and the first auxiliary arm. One embodiment may include, in addition to or instead of, at least one of the features 1 to 48 described above, at least one of the following: Feature 49: The support is equipped with a support member. Feature 50: The support member is integrally connected to the second end of the first auxiliary arm, thereby supporting the first manual operating part via the first auxiliary arm. The support member may be included in the aforementioned integrally molded product. Feature 51: The first auxiliary arm is configured to be elastically deformable relative to the support member at its second end. Feature 52: The first spring constant is greater than the second spring constant. Feature 53: The first spring constant indicates the resistance of the first auxiliary arm to elastic deformation relative to the support member. This elastic deformation may be based on the force applied to the first auxiliary arm in response to the first operating body being pushed in the first direction. Feature 54: The second spring constant indicates the resistance to elastic deformation of the bent portion. This elastic deformation may be based on the force applied to the first arm in response to the first operating body being pushed in the first direction.

[0043] In field electrical equipment having at least features 1-20, 38-41, and 44-54, it is possible to suppress or prevent the second end of the first auxiliary arm from elastically deforming in response to the first operating body being pressed. This makes it easier to displace the first arm with the bent portion as the pivot point.

[0044] The support member may have a plate-like shape. The aforementioned first opening may be provided on the support member. The entire support may be integrally molded.

[0045] One embodiment may include, in addition to or instead of, at least one of the features 1 to 54 described above, at least one of the following: Feature 55: Second switch. Feature 56: The second switch has a second movable piece (or second movable part, or second push rod, or second actuator). Feature 57: The second movable piece is configured to move in the first direction in response to a second load in the first direction. Feature 58: Second manual control section. The second manual control section may be configured to be operated manually by the user. Feature 59: The second manual operation unit is equipped with a second operation body (or second button). Feature 60: The second operating body is positioned spaced apart from the second movable piece in the second direction. The second operating body may be configured to be operated manually by the user (for example, by being pushed in the first direction). Feature 61: The second manual operation unit is equipped with a second arm. Feature 62: The second arm has a first end. Feature 63: The first end of the second arm is connected to a support. The first end of the second arm may be connected to a support other than the aforementioned support to which the first arm is connected. Feature 64: The second arm has a second end. Feature 65: The second end of the second arm is connected to the second operating body. Feature 66: In the second initial state, the first end of the second arm is spaced apart from the second reference plane in the first direction. Feature 67: The second initial state is when the second manual operation unit is not operated manually. Feature 68: The second reference plane is perpendicular to the first direction. Feature 69: The second reference plane is a virtual plane passing through the second end of the second arm. Feature 70: The second manual operating section is configured to displace in the first direction in response to the second operating body being pushed in the first direction, thereby applying a second load from the second operating body to the second movable piece. The second operating body may also be configured to directly or indirectly contact the second movable piece, thereby applying a second load to the second movable piece.

[0046] In field electrical equipment possessing at least features 1-20, 55-70, the first end of the second arm is located on the first direction side of the second end of the second arm. Therefore, the force required for the user to operate the second switch can be reduced.

[0047] The second reference plane may be parallel to the first reference plane. The second reference plane may also coincide with the first reference plane. The second operating body may be configured to be pressed directly by the user.

[0048] The second operating body may be configured to be indirectly pressed by the user. Specifically, a second predetermined member (e.g., a cover or membrane) may be positioned on the second direction side of the second operating body. The user may then press the second predetermined member, thereby pressing the second operating body from the second predetermined member. In other words, the second operating body may be indirectly pressed by the user via the second predetermined member.

[0049] The second switch may include electrical contacts. The electrical contacts may be configured to close or open in response to the second movable piece being moved in the first direction (or moved by a certain distance or more). The second switch may be configured to operate in a so-called momentary manner or in a so-called alternate manner.

[0050] The second movable piece may be in its initial position in the second initial state. The second movable piece may be configured to move from its initial position in the first direction (or move by a certain distance or more) in response to a second load in the first direction.

[0051] The second arm may extend in any manner from the second operating body. The second arm may have a long, narrow, plate-like (or rod-like) shape. The distance from the second reference plane to the second arm may increase continuously or intermittently from the second end to the first end. There may be a portion between the second end and the first end where the distance from the second reference plane is shorter.

[0052] The first end of the second arm may be defined as the entire portion that can be considered as the boundary with the support, or as a predetermined range or position within that portion. Specifically, the first end of the second arm may be defined as the entire connecting surface (i.e., cross-section) that is connected to the support, or as a predetermined range or position within that connecting surface (for example, an end or intermediate position in the first direction).

[0053] The second end of the second arm may be defined as the entire portion that can be considered as the boundary with the second operating body, or as a predetermined range or position within that portion. Specifically, the second end of the second arm may be defined as the entire connection surface (i.e., cross-section) with the second operating body, or as a predetermined range or position within that connection surface (for example, the end or intermediate position in the first direction).

[0054] The second operating body, the second arm, and the support may be integrally molded. The aforementioned integrally molded product may further include the second operating body and / or the second arm. The second switch may have the same configuration as the first switch. In other words, the second switch may have the same shape and size as the first switch.

[0055] The second arm may have the same configuration as the first arm. In other words, the second arm may have the same shape and size as the first arm. The second switch may have features among the aforementioned features 1 to 54 that are identical to or correspond to the features relating to the first switch.

[0056] The second manual operation unit may have features that are the same as or corresponding to the features of the first manual operation unit among the features 1 to 54 described above. For example, the support may have a second auxiliary arm corresponding to the first auxiliary arm. That is, the second arm may be connected to the second auxiliary arm. The second arm and the second auxiliary arm may have features that are the same as or corresponding to the features of the first arm and the first auxiliary arm among the features 1 to 54 described above.

[0057] One embodiment may include, in addition to or instead of, at least one of the features 1 to 70 described above, at least one of the following: Feature 71: The first arm extends from its first end toward the first end of the second arm. Feature 72: The second arm extends from its first end toward the first end of the first arm.

[0058] In field electrical equipment possessing at least features 1-20, 55-72, the first and second switches can be easily spaced apart. One embodiment may include, in addition to or instead of, at least one of the features 1 to 72 described above, at least one of the following: Feature 73: The angle between the first extension starting direction of the first arm and the second extension starting direction of the second arm is greater than 170° and less than or equal to 180°. This angle may be 180°. Feature 74: The first extension initiation direction is the direction in which the first arm extends from its first end when viewed in the first direction. Feature 75: The second extension initiation direction is the direction in which the second arm extends from its first end when viewed in the first direction.

[0059] In field electrical equipment possessing at least features 1-20, 55-75, the first and second switches can be easily spaced apart. The first extension initiation direction may be rephrased as described above.

[0060] The same applies to the second extension initiation direction. That is, the second extension initiation direction can be rephrased as the direction extending from the first end of the second arm when the second arm is viewed from outside the second arm in a direction perpendicular to the reference plane (or a direction perpendicular to the second reference plane). Alternatively, the second extension initiation direction can be rephrased as the component (or vector component) of the direction (or vector in that direction) in which the second arm extends from its first end that is parallel to the first reference plane (or second reference plane).

[0061] One embodiment may include, in addition to or instead of, at least one of the features 1 to 75 described above, at least one of the following: Feature 76: The second arm includes a second starting portion. Feature 77: The second starting portion corresponds to the portion of the second arm that extends from the first end of the second arm in the second extension starting direction when the second arm is viewed in the first direction (i.e., a portion including the first end of the second arm). Feature 78: The second arm includes a second continuation section. Feature 79: The second continuation portion corresponds to the portion of the second arm that extends in the second continuation direction from the tip of the second initiation portion (i.e., the end opposite to the first end) when the second arm is viewed in the first direction. The second continuation portion may include the second end of the second arm. Feature 80: The second extension continuation direction is different from the second extension initiation direction. Feature 81: Both the first and second continuation sections extend toward a hypothetical straight line passing through the second end of the first arm and the second end of the second arm.

[0062] In field electrical equipment possessing at least features 1-20, 24-28, and 55-81, the first and second switches can be easily separated, and the efficiency of space utilization around these first and second switches can be increased.

[0063] The second extension direction may be rephrased as the direction in which the second extension portion extends from the tip of the second starting portion, when the second arm is viewed from outside the second arm in a direction perpendicular to the reference plane (or a direction perpendicular to the second reference plane). Alternatively, the second extension direction may be rephrased as the component (or vector component) of the direction in which the second extension portion extends from the tip of the second starting portion (or the vector in that direction) that is parallel to the first reference plane (or the second reference plane).

[0064] One embodiment may include, in addition to or instead of, at least one of the features 1 to 81 described above, at least one of the following: Feature 82: Third switch. Feature 83: The third switch has a third movable piece (or third movable part, or third push rod, or third actuator). Feature 84: The third movable piece is configured to move in the first direction in response to a third load in the first direction. Feature 85: Third manual control section. The third manual control section may be configured to be operated manually by the user. Feature 86: The third manual operation unit is equipped with a third operation body (or third button). Feature 87: The third operating body is positioned spaced apart from the third movable piece in the second direction. The third operating body may be configured to be operated manually by the user (for example, by being pushed in the first direction). Feature 88: The third manual control unit is equipped with a third arm. Feature 89: The third arm has a first end. Feature 90: The first end of the third arm is connected to a support. The first end of the third arm may be connected to a support other than the aforementioned support to which the first and second arms are connected. Feature 91: The third arm has a second end. Feature 92: The second end of the third arm is connected to the third operating body. Feature 93: In the third initial state, the first end of the third arm is spaced apart from the third reference plane in the first direction. Feature 94: The third initial state is when the third manual operation unit is not operated manually. Feature 95: The third reference plane is perpendicular to the first direction. Feature 96: The third reference plane is a hypothetical plane passing through the second end of the third arm. Feature 97: The third manual operating part is configured to displace in the first direction in response to the third operating body being pushed in the first direction, thereby applying a third load from the third operating body to the third movable piece. The third operating body may be configured to directly or indirectly contact the third movable piece, thereby applying a third load to the third movable piece. Feature 98: The first operating body, the second operating body, and the third operating body are not on the same straight line.

[0065] In field electrical equipment possessing at least features 1-20, 55-70, and 82-98, the first end of the third arm is located on the first direction side of the second end of the third arm. Therefore, the force required for the user to operate the third switch can be reduced.

[0066] The third reference plane may be parallel to the first reference plane and / or the second reference plane. The third reference plane may coincide with the first reference plane and / or. The third operating body may be configured to be pressed directly by the user.

[0067] The third operating body may be configured to be indirectly pressed by the user. Specifically, a third predetermined member (e.g., a cover or membrane) may be positioned on the second direction side of the third operating body. The user may then press the third predetermined member, thereby pressing the third operating body from the third predetermined member. In other words, the third operating body may be indirectly pressed by the user via the third predetermined member.

[0068] The third switch may include electrical contacts. The electrical contacts may be configured to close or open in response to the third movable piece being moved in the first direction (or moved by a certain distance or more). The third switch may be configured to operate in a so-called momentary manner or in a so-called alternate manner.

[0069] The third movable piece may be in its initial position in the third initial state. The third movable piece may be configured to move from its initial position in the first direction (or move by a certain distance or more) in response to a third load in the first direction.

[0070] The third arm may extend in any way from the third operating body. The third arm may have a long, narrow, plate-like (or rod-like) shape. The distance from the third reference plane to the third arm may increase continuously or intermittently from the second end to the first end. There may be a portion between the second end and the first end where the distance from the third reference plane is shorter.

[0071] The first end of the third arm may be defined as the entire portion that can be considered as the boundary with the support, or as a predetermined range or position within that portion. Specifically, the first end of the third arm may be defined as the entire connecting surface (i.e., cross-section) that is connected to the support, or as a predetermined range or position within that connecting surface (for example, an end or intermediate position in the first direction).

[0072] The second end of the third arm may be defined as the entire portion that can be considered as the boundary with the third operating body, or as a predetermined range or position within that portion. Specifically, the second end of the third arm may be defined as the entire connection surface (i.e., cross-section) with the third operating body, or as a predetermined range or position within that connection surface (for example, the end or intermediate position in the first direction).

[0073] The third operating body, the third arm, and the support may be integrally molded. The aforementioned integrally molded product may further include the third operating body and / or the third arm. The third switch may have the same configuration as the first or second switch. In other words, the third switch may have the same shape and size as the first and / or second switch.

[0074] The third arm may have the same configuration as the first arm and / or the second arm. In other words, the third arm may have the same shape and size as the first arm and / or the second arm.

[0075] The third switch may have the same or corresponding features among the features 1 to 54 described above as those relating to the first switch. The third manual operation unit may have features that are the same as or corresponding to the features of the first manual operation unit among the features 1 to 54 described above. For example, the support may have a third auxiliary arm corresponding to the first auxiliary arm. That is, the third arm may be connected to the third auxiliary arm. The third arm and the third auxiliary arm may have features that are the same as or corresponding to the features of the first arm and the first auxiliary arm among the features 1 to 54 described above.

[0076] One embodiment may include, in addition to or instead of, at least one of the above-described features 1 to 98: Feature 99: The angle between the first separation direction, which is the direction from the second operating body to the first operating body when the first and second operating bodies are viewed in the first direction, and the second separation direction, which is the direction from the second operating body to the third operating body when the second and third operating bodies are viewed in the first direction, is 80° or more and 100° or less. This angle may be 90°.

[0077] In field electrical equipment possessing at least features 1-20, 55-70, and 82-99, the area required for the placement of the first to third switches can be reduced. The first separation direction may be rephrased as the component (or vector component) of the direction (or vector in that direction) from the second operating body to the first operating body that is parallel to the first reference plane (or the second reference plane or the third reference plane). The "direction from the second operating body to the first operating body" may be, for example, the direction from a predetermined position on the entire surface and interior of the second operating body to a predetermined position on the entire surface and interior of the first operating body.

[0078] The second separation direction may be rephrased as the component (or vector component) of the direction (or vector in that direction) from the second operating body to the third operating body that is parallel to the first reference plane (or the second reference plane or the third reference plane). The "direction from the second operating body to the third operating body" may be, for example, the direction from a predetermined position on the entire surface and interior of the second operating body to a predetermined position on the entire surface and interior of the third operating body.

[0079] One embodiment may include, in addition to or instead of, at least one of the features 1 to 99 described above, at least one of the following: Feature 100: Display unit. Feature 101: The display unit is positioned at a distance from the second switch in a direction that is a combination of the first and second separation directions. Feature 102: The display unit is configured to display information regarding the operation of field electrical equipment. In field electrical equipment possessing at least features 1-20, 55-70, and 82-102, the first to third switches and display units can be efficiently arranged (for example, while minimizing mounting area).

[0080] The display unit may include, for example, one or more LEDs and / or various display devices. The display unit may include, for example, a 7-segment LED. The display unit may include various displays such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display. The display unit may include a simple lighting device (or light emitter).

[0081] Here, we define a hypothetical parallelogram passing through the first to third switches. This parallelogram has first to fourth vertices. The first vertex is within the first switch, the second vertex is within the second switch, and the third vertex is within the third switch. In this case, the display unit may be positioned such that the fourth vertex is within the display unit. This parallelogram may be parallel to the first reference plane, the second reference plane, and / or the third reference plane.

[0082] One embodiment may include, in addition to or instead of, at least one of the features 1 to 102 described above, at least one of the following: Feature 103: At least two of the first extension initiation direction of the first arm, the second extension initiation direction of the second arm, and the third extension initiation direction of the third arm are different from each other. Feature 104: The third extension initiation direction is the direction in which the third arm extends from the first end of the third arm when viewed in the first direction.

[0083] In field electrical equipment possessing at least features 1-20, 25, 55-70, 75, 82-98, and 103-104, the first to third switches can be efficiently arranged (for example, while minimizing mounting area).

[0084] The third extension initiation direction may be rephrased as the direction in which the third arm extends from its first end when viewed from outside the third arm in a direction perpendicular to the reference plane (or in a direction perpendicular to the second reference plane or perpendicular to the third reference plane). Alternatively, the third extension initiation direction may be rephrased as the component (or vector component) of the direction in which the third arm extends from its first end (or the vector in that direction) that is parallel to the first reference plane (or the second reference plane or the third reference plane).

[0085] One embodiment may include, in addition to or instead of, at least one of the above-described features 1 to 104: Feature 105: The first extension initiation direction, the second extension initiation direction, and the third extension initiation direction are different from each other.

[0086] Field electrical equipment possessing at least features 1-20, 25, 55-70, 75, 82-98, and 103-105 allows for the efficient placement of the first to third switches (for example, while minimizing mounting area) and enables a variety of placement variations.

[0087] One embodiment may include, in addition to or instead of, at least one of the above-described features 1 to 105: Feature 106: The angle between the second extension initiation direction and the third extension initiation direction is 170° or more and 180° or less. This angle may be 180°.

[0088] One embodiment may include, in addition to or instead of, at least one of the above-described features 1 to 106: Feature 107: The first extension initiation direction is non-parallel to the second and third extension initiation directions. The second extension initiation direction may or may not be parallel to the third extension initiation direction.

[0089] One embodiment may include, in addition to or instead of, at least one of the above features 1 to 107: Feature 108: Housing. Feature 109: The housing accommodates the first switch, the second switch, and / or the third switch. Feature 110: The housing includes the first housing. Feature 111: The housing includes a second housing. Feature 112: The first housing and the second housing are combined with each other. The first housing and the second housing may be combined with each other to assemble the housing. Feature 113: The support has a plate-like shape. Feature 114: The first housing includes a first support section. Feature 115: The first support portion is fitted with the first outer peripheral portion, which is part of the outer circumference of the support, and thereby supports the support. Feature 116: The second housing is equipped with a second support section. Feature 117: The second support portion is fitted with a second outer peripheral portion, which is part of the outer circumference of the support, and thereby supports the support. The second outer peripheral portion is different from the first outer peripheral portion. Feature 118: The shape of the second outer circumference differs from the shape of the first outer circumference.

[0090] In field electrical equipment having at least features 1-20,108-118, the support can be properly fitted into the first or second housing during the manufacturing process of the field electrical equipment.

[0091] Here, we assume that the shape of the second outer circumference is the same as the shape of the first outer circumference. In this case, the worker may mistakenly insert (or attempt to insert) the second outer circumference into the first support portion of the first housing. Considering workability, it is desirable that the support can be properly and easily inserted into the first support portion.

[0092] In contrast, if the system has feature 118, it can suppress or prevent the erroneous insertion described above. The support may have a flange (or rib) formed along its outer circumference. The flange may be formed over the entire outer circumference of the support, or only partially on the outer circumference. The first outer circumference portion and / or the second outer circumference portion may be provided on the flange.

[0093] Feature 118 can also be rephrased as the first outer perimeter and the second outer perimeter being asymmetrical. The first switch, the second switch, and / or the third switch may be fixed directly or indirectly to the support.

[0094] One embodiment may include, in addition to or instead of, at least one of the above-described features 1 to 118: Feature 119: The support is configured such that, in the unassembled state, the support is fitted into the first support in a predetermined insertion direction. The unassembled state is a state in which the support is not attached to the housing and the second housing is separated from the first housing.

[0095] In field electrical equipment possessing at least features 1-20, 108-119, the support can be easily and appropriately fitted into the first housing during the manufacturing process. One embodiment may include, in addition to or instead of, at least one of the features 1 to 119 described above, at least one of the following: Feature 120: The outer periphery of the support includes a first linear region. Feature 121: The first linear region is a linear region that includes one of the two boundaries between the first outer perimeter and the second outer perimeter. Feature 122: The outer periphery of the support includes a second linear region. Feature 123: The second linear region is a linear region that includes the other of the two boundaries mentioned above.

[0096] In field electrical equipment possessing at least features 1-20, 108-123, the support can be stably fixed to the first support in a semi-fixed state (in other words, it can be made difficult to detach from the first support). The semi-fixed state is a state in the manufacturing process in which the support is fitted into the first housing, while the second housing has not yet been assembled to the first housing (i.e., the second outer circumference of the support has not yet been fitted into the second housing).

[0097] In other words, if the first linear region and / or the second linear region are absent or small, the support may be more likely to detach from the first housing in the semi-fixed state. However, it is desirable that the support does not easily detach from the first housing in the semi-fixed state. By providing the first linear region and the second linear region, it is possible to make it more difficult for the support to detach from the first housing.

[0098] One embodiment may include, in addition to or instead of, at least one of the above-described features 1 to 123: Feature 124: The first and second linear regions are parallel to the insertion direction.

[0099] In field electrical equipment possessing at least features 1-20, 108-124, the support can be easily fitted into the first housing during the manufacturing process, and the support is less likely to come off the first support after being fitted.

[0100] One embodiment may include, in addition to or instead of, at least one of the features 1 to 124 described above, at least one of the following: Feature 125: The first outer portion has a curved first curved region. Feature 126: The first outer portion has a curved second curved region. Feature 127: The second outer portion has a third curved region that is curved. Feature 128: The second outer portion has a curved fourth curved region. Feature 129: The curvature of the first curvature region is greater than the curvature of the third curvature region and the curvature of the fourth curvature region. Feature 130: The curvature of the second curvature region is greater than the curvature of the third curvature region and the curvature of the fourth curvature region.

[0101] In field electrical equipment possessing at least features 1-20, 108-119, and 125-130, a second housing can be easily assembled to a semi-fixed support. The greater the curvature of the third and fourth curved regions (in other words, the smaller the radius of curvature), the more difficult it may become to fit the second outer portion into the second support portion of the second housing. In other words, the workability of assembling the second housing to the first housing from a semi-fixed state may decrease.

[0102] In contrast, by reducing the curvature of the third and fourth curved regions (in other words, increasing the radius of curvature), the second outer portion becomes easier to fit into the second support portion of the second housing. On the other hand, by relatively increasing the curvature of the first and second curved regions, it becomes possible to make it less likely for the support to detach from the first housing in a semi-fixed state.

[0103] One embodiment may include, in addition to or instead of, at least one of the features 1 to 130 described above, at least one of the following: Feature 131: Electrical load. Feature 132: Control circuit. Feature 133: The control circuit is configured to control the electrical load. Feature 134: Circuit board. Feature 135: The circuit board has a control circuit mounted (or implemented). Feature 136: The circuit board has a first switch, a second switch, and / or a third switch fixed (or mounted) on it. Feature 137: A support is fixed to the circuit board.

[0104] In field electrical equipment having at least features 1-20, 131-137, the circuit board and the first to third switches can be compactly housed within the field electrical equipment. Features 120, 122, 129 and / or 130 described above are more effective when feature 137 described above is included. That is, when the support on which the circuit board is fixed is fitted into the first support portion of the first housing, the weight of the circuit board may cause the support to easily detach from the first housing. In this case, if features 120, 122, 129 and / or 130 described above are included, it becomes possible to make it difficult for the support to detach from the first housing.

[0105] The housing may have an opening. The first and second support members may be provided along the opening (i.e., surrounding the opening). The opening may include a first partial opening to which the first support member is provided and a second partial opening to which the second support member is provided. The support members may be positioned to cover (close) the opening.

[0106] The electrical load may include motors. Examples of such motors include brushed DC motors, brushless motors (including brushless DC motors and / or brushless AC motors), AC motors, and stepping motors. The electrical load may also include loads other than motors. Examples of electrical loads include heaters and light-emitting devices.

[0107] The first switch, the second switch, and / or the third switch may be electrically connected to the control circuit, or they may be connected to a circuit separate from the control circuit. The control circuit may be configured to set, change, or switch the operation / deactivation of the electrical load, the operation method, the control method, the operating mode, various parameters related to the operation of the electrical load, and the operation or deactivation of the control circuit itself, depending on the state (open or closed) of the first switch, the second switch, and / or the third switch.

[0108] The control circuit may be integrated into a single electronic unit, a single electronic device, or a single circuit board. The control circuit may be a combination of two or more electronic circuits, two or more electronic units, or two or more electronic devices, individually provided on or within the field electrical equipment.

[0109] The control circuit may comprise a microcomputer (or microcontroller or microprocessor), wiring logic, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), application-specific general-purpose products (ASSPs), programmable logic devices (such as field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs)), discrete electronic components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0110] Field electrical equipment may include any equipment configured to operate on direct current (DC) or alternating current (AC) power. Field electrical equipment may be configured to receive AC power or DC power. Field electrical equipment may have a built-in battery and be configured to operate on the power of that battery. Field electrical equipment may be configured to have a battery pack containing a battery that is detachably attached. Field electrical equipment may be configured to operate on power from the battery in the battery pack. The battery may be rechargeable.

[0111] Field electrical equipment may include a power transmission unit. The power transmission unit is configured to transmit the rotation of a motor to a driven device. The driven device may be fixed to the field electrical equipment or may be configured to be detachably attached to the field electrical equipment. Examples of driven devices include various bits, rotating blades or cutting blades, saw chains, and impellers for fans or pumps.

[0112] Field electrical equipment may be equipped with a grip. The grip may be configured to be held by the user. Field electrical equipment may be equipped with a trigger. The trigger may be configured to be operated manually by the user. Field electrical equipment may be configured so that the user can manually operate the trigger while holding the grip.

[0113] Examples of on-site electrical equipment include various electrical devices used (or potentially used) at work sites such as construction, manufacturing, civil engineering, engineering, agriculture, gardening, cleaning, and DIY. Specifically, examples of on-site electrical equipment include power tools or electric work implements for stonework, metalwork, and woodworking, electric work implements for gardening, and equipment for preparing the work site environment. More specifically, examples of on-site electrical equipment include electric blowers, electric hammers, electric hammer drills, electric drills, electric screwdrivers, electric wrenches, electric grinders, electric circular saws, electric reciprocating saws, electric jigsaws, electric cutters, electric chainsaws, electric planers, electric nail guns (including rivet guns), electric hedge trimmers, electric lawnmowers, electric grass trimmers, electric brush cutters, electric cleaners, electric sprayers, electric sprayers, electric dust collectors, electric trowels, electric vibrators, electric rammers, electric compactors, and electric pegs. This includes pumps, electric pile drivers, electric concrete saws, electric screeds, electric cut-off saws, laser distance meters (or laser distance measuring devices), laser levels, laser level receivers, wall scanners, radios, televisions, speakers, lights (i.e., lighting devices), electric coolers / warmers, electric kettles, coffee machines (or coffee makers, or coffee stills), microwave ovens, robotic vacuum cleaners, battery-powered handcarts, battery-powered bicycles, fan vests, and heated jackets.

[0114] In one embodiment, the above features 1 to 137 may be combined in any way. In one embodiment, any of the above features 1 to 137 may be excluded. [2. Specific exemplary embodiments] The following describes four specific exemplary embodiments.

[0115] [2-1. First Embodiment] The first embodiment provides a field electrical device 1 in the form of a drill driver. The field electrical device 1 is used for tasks such as screwing and drilling. However, such a field electrical device 1 is merely an example, and the present disclosure can be applied to any form of field electrical device.

[0116] For the sake of explanation, in this first embodiment, directions in the field electrical equipment 1 are defined as shown appropriately in Figure 1 and subsequent figures. Specifically, "up" (upward direction), "down" (downward direction), "right" (rightward direction), "left" (leftward direction), "front" (forward direction), and "back" (backward direction) are defined. The same applies to the second to fourth embodiments described later. Downward direction is an example of the first direction in the summary of the embodiment, and upward direction is an example of the second direction in the summary of the embodiment.

[0117] (2-1-1) Overall configuration of field electrical equipment As shown in Figure 1, the field electrical equipment 1 includes a housing 2. The housing 2 includes a first housing section 3. The first housing section 3 houses a motor 40 (not shown; see Figure 2).

[0118] The housing 2 is equipped with a grip 4. The grip 4 is held by the user of the field electrical equipment 1. The field electrical device 1 is equipped with a trigger 7. The trigger 7 is located in front of the grip 4 and near the boundary between the grip 4 and the first housing 3. The trigger 7 is operated manually by the user to rotate the motor 40.

[0119] The housing 2 includes a second housing section 5. The second housing section 5 has a battery mounting section 5a at its lower end. The battery pack 200 is detachably mounted in the battery mounting section 5a. The field electrical equipment 1 includes a chuck 6. The chuck 6 is located in front of the first housing 3. Various driven devices (or tools) are detachably mounted on the chuck 6. Examples of driven devices include various tool bits such as drill bits and screwdriver bits.

[0120] The first housing section 3 houses a power transmission mechanism (not shown). The power transmission mechanism transmits the rotation of the motor 40 to the chuck 6, thereby rotating the driven device. The field electrical equipment 1 is equipped with a mode switching ring 8. The mode switching ring 8 is located in front of the first housing section 3. The mode switching ring 8 is a rotatable cylindrical member. The mode switching ring 8 is rotated by the user of the field electrical equipment 1 to selectively set the operating mode of the field electrical equipment 1 to one of several modes.

[0121] The second housing section 5 houses the switch unit 10 and the controller 250 (not shown; see Figure 2). The second housing section 5 has a panel opening 5b on its upper surface. The upper surface of the switch unit 10 is exposed to the outside of the field electrical equipment 1 through the panel opening 5b. Therefore, the user can operate the switch unit 10.

[0122] The switch unit 10 includes a switch 15, a light emitter 16, and a display unit 17 inside. The switch 15 is in the form of a push-button switch. The user can manually operate the switch 15 (specifically by pushing it downwards). The light emitter 16 emits light. The light emitter 16 includes, for example, an LED. The user can see the light from the light emitter 16. The display unit 17 displays various information. The display unit 17 includes, for example, a 7-segment LED. The user can see the information displayed on the display unit 17.

[0123] The field electrical equipment 1 is equipped with a dial 9. The dial 9 is located at the front end of the second housing 5. The dial 9 is a rotatable cylindrical member. The dial 9 is rotated by the user to selectively set the output torque of the motor 40 in a specific mode to one of several torques.

[0124] In this embodiment, the switch 15 is used to enable or disable torque switching using the dial 9. When torque switching is enabled, the display unit 17 displays multiple torque values ​​one by one in accordance with the rotation of the dial 9. The user can set the desired output torque by rotating the dial 9.

[0125] (2-1-2) Electrical configuration of field electrical equipment As shown in Figure 2, the motor 40 and the switch unit 10 are electrically connected to the controller 250.

[0126] The battery pack 200 houses the battery 200a. The battery 200a is in the form of a rechargeable secondary battery. The battery 200a may be in the form of a lithium-ion secondary battery.

[0127] When the battery pack 200 is installed in the battery mounting section 5a, the battery 200a is electrically connected to the controller 250. The field electrical equipment 1 includes a trigger input circuit 7a. The trigger input circuit 7a is mechanically connected to the trigger 7 and outputs trigger information indicating the state of the trigger 7 to the controller 250. The trigger information includes information indicating whether the trigger 7 has moved from its initial position (or moved by a certain distance or more), and / or information indicating the amount of movement (or position) of the trigger 7.

[0128] The field electrical equipment 1 is equipped with a mode input circuit 8a. The mode input circuit 8a is connected to a mode switching ring 8 and outputs mode information indicating the position of the mode switching ring 8 (and therefore the selected mode) to the controller 250.

[0129] The field electrical equipment 1 is equipped with a dial input circuit 9a. The dial input circuit 9a is connected to the dial 9 and outputs dial information indicating the position (or rotation speed of the dial 9) to the controller 250.

[0130] The controller 250 includes a drive circuit 251. The drive circuit 251 is electrically connected to the battery 200a and receives battery power from the battery 200a. The drive circuit 251 converts the battery power into motor drive power and supplies it to the motor 40. The motor 40 in this first embodiment is a brushless motor. Therefore, the motor drive power is in the form of three-phase power.

[0131] The controller 250 includes a control circuit 252. The control circuit 252 controls the motor 40 via the drive circuit 251. The control circuit 252 receives trigger information, mode information, and dial information as input. The control circuit 252 is electrically connected to the switch unit 10. Specifically, the control circuit 252 is electrically connected to the switch 15, the light emitter 16, and the display unit 17.

[0132] The control circuit 252 enables or disables torque switching in response to the press of switch 15. The control circuit 252 sets the operating mode based on mode information. The control circuit 252 sets the output torque based on dial information. When torque switching is enabled, the control circuit 252 displays information indicating the torque based on the dial information on the display unit 17. The control circuit 252 activates (i.e., emits light) the light emitter 16 when the requirements for activating the light emitter 16 are met. When the trigger 7 is manually pressed, the control circuit 252 outputs a control signal to the drive circuit 251 corresponding to the set operating mode and output torque. Upon receiving the control signal, the drive circuit 251 supplies motor drive power corresponding to the control signal to the motor 40, causing the motor 40 to rotate.

[0133] (2-1-3) Switch Unit Configuration The configuration of the switch unit 10 will be described in detail with reference to Figures 3 to 9. As shown in Figure 3, the switch unit 10 is positioned on top of the controller 250 within the second housing 5. The switch unit 10 is electrically connected to the controller 250 but is not fixed to the controller 250.

[0134] As shown in Figures 3, 4, and 7, the switch unit 10 includes a switch circuit 13. The switch circuit 13 includes a switch 15, a light emitter 16, and a display unit 17. As shown in Figures 4 and 7, the switch circuit 13 includes a circuit board 14. The switch 15, light emitter 16, and display unit 17 are mounted on the substrate surface 14a of the circuit board 14. The circuit board 14 includes electrical wiring (not shown) for connecting the switch 15, light emitter 16, and display unit 17 to the controller 250.

[0135] The switch 15 is provided with a movable piece 15a on its upper part. The “movable piece” may also be referred to as a movable part, push rod, or actuator. The movable piece 15a is configured to move downward in response to a first downward load, thereby electrically turning on the switch 15. The first load may be of any magnitude. Turning on the switch 15 electrically means opening or closing the conductive path (part of the aforementioned electrical wiring) connected to the switch 15. The movable piece 15a is configured such that the operating body 31 contacts the upper surface of the movable piece 15a. The movable piece 15a receives the first load from the operating body 31 on its surface.

[0136] As shown in Figures 3 to 7, the switch unit 10 includes a switch plate 12. The switch plate 12 has an overall plate-like shape, or more specifically, a thin, partially open tray-like shape. This is just one example, but the switch plate 12 is in the form of a single molded product. That is, each part of the switch plate 12 described below is formed integrally. The switch plate 12 may also be a resin molded product mainly composed of resin.

[0137] As shown in Figure 5, the switch plate 12 has a plurality (two in this embodiment) of screw holes 12a. A screw 18 (see Figure 4) is inserted into each screw hole 12a. The switch plate 12 is fixed to the circuit board 14 by two screws 18.

[0138] As shown in Figures 4 to 7, the switch plate 12 includes a manual operating section 30. The manual operating section 30 is operated manually by the user. More specifically, the manual operating section 30 is configured to elastically deform downward when pushed downward.

[0139] The switch plate 12 includes a support 24. The support 24 supports the manual operation unit 30. The support body 24 includes a support member 20. The support member 20 has a plate-like shape. The "support member" may also be referred to as a support plate or the like.

[0140] The support member 20 has a first opening 21 that is open in the vertical direction. The manual operation unit 30 is located inside the first opening 21. The light emitter 16 is located spaced downward from the first opening 21. When the switch plate 12 is viewed from the outside in a downward direction, the light emitter 16 can be seen through the first opening 21. The light emitter 16 is configured to emit light upward through the first opening 21.

[0141] The support member 20 has a second opening 22 that is open in the vertical direction. The display unit 17 is positioned spaced downward from the second opening 22. When the switch plate 12 is viewed from the outside in a downward direction, the display unit 17 can be seen through the second opening 22.

[0142] The support 24 includes an auxiliary arm 33. The auxiliary arm 33 extends downward from the support member 20 (specifically from the edge of the first opening 21). The first end 33a of the auxiliary arm 33 (the lower end; see Figures 6 and 8) is curved to the left. The second end 33b of the auxiliary arm 33 (see Figures 6 and 8) is connected to the support member 20.

[0143] The manual operation unit 30 includes an operation body 31. The "operation body" may also be referred to as a button, manual contact part, etc. The operation body 31 is positioned spaced upward from the movable piece 15a. The operation body 31 is configured to be pushed downward by the user. The operation body 31 has a contact part 35 (see Figures 5 and 7) at its lower end. When the operation body 31 is pushed downward, the contact part 35 comes into contact with the surface of the movable piece 15a.

[0144] The manual operation unit 30 includes an arm 32. The arm 32 has a long, rod-like shape. More specifically, the arm 32 has a long, thin plate-like shape. The first end 32a of the arm 32 (see Figures 6 and 8) is connected to the first end 33a of the auxiliary arm 33. In other words, the auxiliary arm 33 supports the arm 32 (and by extension, the manual operation unit 30) at its first end 33a. To put it another way, the support member 20 supports the manual operation unit 30 via the auxiliary arm 33. The first end 33a of the auxiliary arm 33 coincides with the first end 32a of the arm 32. The second end 32b of the arm 32 (see Figures 6 and 8) is connected to the operating body 31.

[0145] As mentioned above, the switch plate 12 is a single molded product. Therefore, the operating body 31, arm 32, auxiliary arm 33, and support member 20 are integrally molded. The arm 32 extends from the first end 33a of the auxiliary arm 33 so as to continuously follow the curved shape of the first end 33a of the auxiliary arm 33. Therefore, the arm 32 and the auxiliary arm 33 can also be considered as a single thin plate rod-shaped member with the boundary portion between them bent in a U-shape. This U-shaped bent portion is referred to as the bent portion 34. The bent portion 34 corresponds to the boundary between the arm 32 and the auxiliary arm 33. The bent portion 34 includes the first end 32a of the arm 32 and the first end 33a of the auxiliary arm 33.

[0146] Here, we define the first reference plane PL1. The first reference plane PL1 is illustrated in Figure 8. The first reference plane PL1 is a hypothetical plane that is perpendicular to the downward direction and passes through the second end 32b of the arm 32.

[0147] As is particularly clear from Figure 6, the arm 32 of this first embodiment bends along the first reference plane PL1 while extending from the first end 32a to the second end 32b. In Figure 6, the first reference plane PL1 is a plane parallel to the plane of the paper in Figure 6.

[0148] Specifically, the arm 32 includes a starting portion 321. The starting portion 321 corresponds to the portion of the arm 32 that extends from the first end 32a of the arm 32 in the extension starting direction D1 (i.e., a portion including the first end 32a). The extension starting direction D1 is the direction in which the arm 32 extends from the first end 32a when viewed downward from the outside. In other words, the extension starting direction D1 is the component of the direction in which the arm 32 extends from the first end 32a that is parallel to the first reference plane PL1.

[0149] The arm 32 further comprises a continuation portion 322. The continuation portion 322 corresponds to the portion of the arm 32 that extends in the extension direction D2 from the tip of the starting portion 321 (i.e., the end opposite to the first end 32a). The extension direction D2 is the direction in which the arm 32 extends from the tip of the starting portion 321 (i.e., the end opposite to the first end 32a) when viewed downward from the outside. In other words, the extension direction D2 is the component of the direction in which the continuation portion 322 extends from the starting portion 321 that is parallel to the first reference plane PL1. The extension direction D2 is different from the extension starting direction D1. Note that the symbol Lb in Figure 6 schematically indicates the boundary between the starting portion 321 and the continuation portion 322.

[0150] The position and operation of the manual operation unit 30 will be explained in detail with reference to Figures 8 and 9. The arm 32 extends from its first end 32a in a direction approaching the first reference plane PL1. The auxiliary arm 33 also extends from its first end 33a in a direction approaching the first reference plane PL1.

[0151] In the initial state, the first end 32a of the arm 32 is spaced downward from the first reference plane PL1. The initial state is when the manual operation unit 30 is not operated manually. Furthermore, in the initial state, the distance from the first reference plane PL1 to the first end 32a of the arm 32 (or the lower end of the first end 32a) is greater than or equal to the distance from the first reference plane PL1 to the upper surface of the movable piece 15a (more specifically, the position where the contact portion 35 of the operating body 31 makes contact).

[0152] Here, we define a first angle α1 and a second angle β1. The first angle α1 is the angle with respect to the first reference plane PL1 in the direction in which the arm 32 extends from the first end 32a to the second end 32b (i.e., the straight line connecting the first end 32a and the second end 32b). The second angle β1 is the angle with respect to the first reference plane PL1 in the direction in which the auxiliary arm 33 extends from the first end 33a to the second end 33b (i.e., the straight line connecting the first end 33a and the second end 33b). The first angle α1 is smaller than the second angle β1.

[0153] Furthermore, the distance from the first end 32a to the second end 32b of arm 32 in the direction along the first reference plane PL1 is longer than the distance from the first end 33a to the second end 33b of auxiliary arm 33 in the direction along the first reference plane PL1.

[0154] Here, the first spring constant and the second spring constant are defined. The auxiliary arm 33 can elastically deform relative to the support member 20 due to the force applied to the auxiliary arm 33 in response to the operating body 31 being pushed downward. The first spring constant indicates the resistance of the auxiliary arm 33 to elastic deformation relative to the support member 20.

[0155] The arm 32 undergoes elastic deformation relative to the auxiliary arm 33 due to the force applied to the arm 32 in response to the operating body 31 being pushed downward. In other words, the bent portion 34 undergoes elastic deformation. That is, the angle between the arm 32 and the auxiliary arm 33 widens. The second spring constant indicates the resistance of the elastic deformation of the bent portion 34.

[0156] Furthermore, the second spring constant is smaller than the first spring constant. In other words, when the operating body 31 is pushed downward, the bending portion 34 undergoes greater elastic deformation. At this time, the auxiliary arm 33 either does not undergo elastic deformation relative to the support member 20, or undergoes less elastic deformation than the bending portion 34.

[0157] Furthermore, the width W1 of the arm 32 (see Figure 6) is more than twice the thickness W2 of the arm 32 (see Figure 8). This suppresses or prevents the arm 32 from twisting when the operating body 31 is pressed by the user.

[0158] With this configuration, when the operating body 31 is pushed downward, the operating body 31, together with the arm 32, is displaced downward with the bent portion 34 as the pivot point. That is, the bent portion 34 undergoes elastic deformation, which in turn causes the manual operating portion 30 to be displaced downward.

[0159] As a result, as illustrated in Figure 9, the operating body 31 contacts the upper surface of the movable piece 15a, and a first load is applied from the operating body 31 to the movable piece 15a. At this time, the force vector applied to the movable piece 15a coincides with the downward direction or contains a large component in the downward direction. In other words, most or all of the force applied to the movable piece 15a contributes to the downward movement of the movable piece 15a as the first load.

[0160] The main reasons why the vector has these properties are that, in the initial state, (i) the first end 32a of the arm 32 is below the first reference plane PL1, (ii) the distance from the first reference plane PL1 to the first end 32a of the arm 32 is greater than or equal to the distance from the first reference plane PL1 to the upper surface of the movable piece 15a, and (iii) the second spring constant is smaller than the first spring constant. Because the vector has these properties, the force applied by the user to the operating body 31 is efficiently applied to the movable piece 15a. As a result, the user can operate the switch 15 with less force, improving the user's operability and ease of use. Furthermore, the stress applied to the switch plate 12 can be reduced, and malfunctions such as breakage of the switch plate 12 can be reduced or prevented.

[0161] When the first load is applied from the operating body 31 to the movable piece 15a, the movable piece 15a moves downward. This turns on the switch 15. When the operating body 31 moves away from the movable piece 15a, which has moved downward, the movable piece 15a moves upward and returns to its initial state. This turns off the switch 15.

[0162] The first end 32a and the second end 32b of the arm 32 may be defined in any way. The first end 32a may be the entire cross-section of the boundary with the auxiliary arm 33, or it may be a part of the cross-section of the boundary. In this embodiment, the first end 32a corresponds to the center of the cross-section of the boundary. The first end 32a may be, for example, the lower end of the cross-section of the boundary (i.e., the lower end of the bent portion 34). Similarly, any part of the boundary with the operating body 31 may be defined as the second end 32b of the arm 32. Similarly, any part of the boundary with the arm 32 may be defined as the first end 33a of the auxiliary arm 33. Similarly, any part of the boundary with the support member 20 may be defined as the second end 33b of the auxiliary arm 33.

[0163] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the switch unit 10 is equipped with a label 11. The label 11 covers the entire upper surface of the support member 20 on the switch plate 12. The label 11 prevents or inhibits damage to the switch plate 12 and prevents dust and other debris from entering the switch plate 12 from the outside. Therefore, the operating body 31 is pressed by the user, more precisely, through the label 11. The label 11 also has a light transmittance of a certain level or higher. The label 11 may be transparent or semi-transparent. Therefore, the light from the light emitter 16 and the information displayed on the display unit 17 are visible through the label 11. Note that the label 11 is not essential and may be omitted.

[0164] [2-2. Second Embodiment] A second embodiment provides a field electrical device 50 in the form of a handheld vacuum cleaner. However, such a field electrical device 50 is also just one example.

[0165] (2-2-1) Overall configuration of electrical equipment for field use As shown in Figure 10, the field electrical equipment 50 includes a housing 51. The housing 51 comprises a first housing 52 and a second housing 53. The housing 51 is divided into two substantially equal parts, one of which corresponds to the first housing 52 and the other to the second housing 53. The first housing 52 and the second housing 53 are combined with each other to assemble the housing 51.

[0166] The housing 51 houses the motor 45 (not shown; see Figure 11), the controller 260 (not shown; see Figure 11), and the switch unit 60. The housing 51 is equipped with a grip 54, which is held by the user of the field electrical equipment 50.

[0167] The housing 51 is provided with a battery mounting section 55 at its rear lower end. The battery pack 200 is detachably mounted in the battery mounting section 55. The field electrical equipment 50 includes a suction unit 56. The tip of the suction unit 56 includes an inlet 56a. A suction pipe (not shown) is detachably attached to the inlet 56a. When the motor 45 rotates, outside air (which may contain dust, etc.) is drawn into the suction unit 56 from the inlet 56a. The suction unit 56 can separate dust, etc. from the drawn outside air.

[0168] The on-site electrical equipment 50 is equipped with a dust case 57. The dust case 57 collects dust and other particles separated by the suction unit 56. The housing 51 has an opening on its upper surface. The upper surface of the switch unit 60 is exposed to the outside of the field electrical equipment 50 through this opening. Therefore, the user can operate the switch unit 60.

[0169] The switch unit 10 includes a first switch 66, a second switch 67, and a display unit 68 inside. The first and second switches 66 and 67 are push-button type switches. In this embodiment, as an example, the first and second switches 66 and 67 have the same shape, structure, and size as each other. As another example, the first and second switches 66 and 67 also have the same shape, structure, and size as the switch 15 of the first embodiment.

[0170] When the motor 45 is stopped, pressing the first switch 66 causes the motor 45 to rotate. When the first switch 66 is pressed while the motor 45 is rotating, the motor 45 stops. The second switch 67 is used to set the suction power to one of several levels. Each time the second switch 67 is pressed, the suction power is switched sequentially.

[0171] The display unit 68 displays various information. The display unit 68 includes, for example, a plurality of LEDs arranged along a certain direction (for example, forward). The user can visually confirm the information displayed on the display unit 68. The display unit 68 displays, for example, information corresponding to the set suction force.

[0172] (2-2-2) Electrical configuration of field electrical equipment As shown in Figure 11, the motor 45 and the switch unit 60 are electrically connected to the controller 260.

[0173] As will be described in detail later, the field electrical equipment 50 of this second embodiment includes a circuit board 65 (see Figure 12). The switch unit 60 and the controller 260 are included in the circuit board 65. In other words, the switch unit 60 and the controller 260 are mounted on the same single board.

[0174] When the battery pack 200 is installed in the battery mounting section 55, the battery 200a is electrically connected to the controller 260. The controller 260 includes a drive circuit 261. The drive circuit 261 is electrically connected to the battery 200a and receives battery power from the battery 200a. The drive circuit 261 converts the battery power into motor drive power and supplies it to the motor 45. The motor 45 in this second embodiment is a brushless motor. Therefore, the motor drive power is in the form of three-phase power.

[0175] The controller 260 includes a control circuit 262. The control circuit 262 controls the motor 45 via the drive circuit 261. The control circuit 262 is electrically connected to the switch unit 60. Specifically, the control circuit 262 is electrically connected to the first switch 66, the second switch 67, and the display unit 68.

[0176] The control circuit 262 activates or stops the motor 45 in response to the first switch 66 being pressed. The control circuit 252 switches the suction force based on the second switch 67 being pressed and displays information indicating the switched suction force on the display unit 68.

[0177] (2-2-3) Switch Unit Configuration The configuration of the switch unit 60 will be described in detail with reference to Figures 12 to 17. As shown in Figures 12 and 13, the switch unit 60 includes a switch circuit 63. The switch circuit 63 includes a first switch 66, a second switch 67, and a display unit 68. As previously mentioned, the field electrical equipment 50 includes a circuit board 65. The first switch 66, the second switch 67, and the display unit 68 are mounted on the substrate surface 65a of the circuit board 65. The circuit board 65 includes electrical wiring (not shown) for connecting the first switch 66, the second switch 67, and the display unit 68 to the controller 260.

[0178] The first switch 66 and the second switch 67 are configured in the same way as the switch 15 of the first embodiment, as described above. Therefore, the above description of the switch 15 also applies to the first switch 66 and the second switch 67.

[0179] That is, the first switch 66 is provided with a first movable piece 66a on its upper part. The first movable piece 66a corresponds to the movable piece 15a of the first embodiment. The first movable piece 66a is configured such that the first operating body 81 contacts the upper surface of the first movable piece 66a. The first operating body 81 corresponds to the operating body 31 of the first embodiment.

[0180] The second switch 67 is provided with a second movable piece 67a on its upper part. The second movable piece 67a corresponds to the movable piece 15a of the first embodiment. The second movable piece 67a is configured such that the second operating body 91 contacts the upper surface of the second movable piece 67a. The second operating body 91 corresponds to the operating body 31 of the first embodiment. The second movable piece 67a is configured to move downward in response to a second downward load, thereby electrically turning on the second switch 67. The second load may be of any magnitude. In this second embodiment, the second load is the same as the first load.

[0181] As shown in Figures 12 to 15, the switch unit 60 includes a switch plate 62. The switch plate 62 has an overall plate-like shape, or more specifically, a thin, partially open tray-like shape. This is just one example, but the switch plate 62 is in the form of a single molded product. That is, each part of the switch plate 62 described below is formed integrally. The switch plate 62 may also be a resin molded product containing resin as the main component.

[0182] The switch plate 62 has multiple screw holes (not shown). A screw 69 (see Figure 13) is inserted into each screw hole. The switch plate 62 is fixed to the circuit board 65 by the multiple screws 69.

[0183] As shown in Figures 13 to 15, the switch plate 62 includes a first manual operation section 80. The first manual operation section 80 has basically the same configuration and function as the manual operation section 30 of the first embodiment, except that the shape and size of the first arm 82 corresponding to the arm 32 are slightly different. That is, the first manual operation section 80 is configured to elastically deform downward when pushed downward by the user.

[0184] The switch plate 62 further includes a second manual operating section 90. The second manual operating section 90 has the same shape, structure and size as the first manual operating section 80 and functions in the same way as the first manual operating section 80.

[0185] The switch plate 62 includes a support 78. The support 78 supports the first manual operation unit 80 and the second manual operation unit 90. The support body 78 includes a support member 70. The support member 70 has a plate-like shape. The support member 70 has a first opening 73 that is open in the vertical direction. The first manual operation unit 80 is located inside the first opening 73. The support member 70 has a second opening 75 that is open in the vertical direction. The second manual operation unit 90 is located inside the second opening 75.

[0186] The support member 70 has one or more third openings 72 that are open in the vertical direction. In this second embodiment, the support member 70 has four third openings 72. The display unit 68 is positioned spaced downward from the third openings 72. When the switch plate 62 is viewed downward from the outside, the display unit 68 can be seen through the third openings 72.

[0187] As shown in Figures 14 and 15, the support 78 includes a first auxiliary arm 83. The first auxiliary arm 83 has essentially the same shape, structure and size as the auxiliary arm 33 of the first embodiment and functions similarly to the auxiliary arm 33. That is, the first auxiliary arm 83 extends downward from the support member 70 (more specifically from the edge of the first opening 73). The first end 83a of the first auxiliary arm 83 is curved. The second end 83b of the first auxiliary arm 83 is connected to the support member 70.

[0188] The first manual operation unit 80 includes a first operating body (or first button) 81. The first operating body 81 has basically the same shape, structure and size as the operating body 31 of the first embodiment and functions in the same way as the operating body 31. That is, the first operating body 81 is positioned spaced upward from the first movable piece 66a. The first operating body 81 has a contact portion 85 (see Figure 15) at its lower end. When the first operating body 81 is pushed downward, the contact portion 85 comes into contact with the surface of the first movable piece 66a.

[0189] The first manual operation unit 80 includes a first arm 82. The first arm 82 differs slightly in shape and size from the arm 32 of the first embodiment, but basically functions in the same way as the arm 32. In other words, the first arm 82 has a long, rod-like shape. More specifically, the first arm 82 has a long, thin plate-like shape. The first end 82a of the first arm 82 is connected to the first end 83a of the first auxiliary arm 83. That is, the first auxiliary arm 83 supports the first arm 82 (and by extension, the first manual operation unit 80) at its first end 83a. The first end 83a of the first auxiliary arm 83 coincides with the first end 82a of the first arm 82. The second end 82b of the first arm 82 is connected to the first operating body 81.

[0190] As shown in Figures 14 and 15, the support 78 includes a second auxiliary arm 93. The second auxiliary arm 93 has the same shape, structure and size as the first auxiliary arm 83 and functions in the same way as the first auxiliary arm 83. That is, the second auxiliary arm 93 extends downward from the support member 70 (more specifically from the edge of the second opening 75). The first end 93a of the second auxiliary arm 93 is curved. The second end 93b of the second auxiliary arm 93 is connected to the support member 70.

[0191] The second manual operation unit 90 includes a second operating body (or second button) 91. The second operating body 91 has the same shape, structure and size as the first operating body 81 and functions in the same way as the first operating body 81. That is, the second operating body 91 is positioned spaced upward from the second movable piece 67a. The second operating body 91 has a contact portion 95 (see Figure 15) at its lower end. When the second operating body 91 is pushed downward, the contact portion 95 comes into contact with the surface of the second movable piece 67a.

[0192] The second manual operation unit 90 includes a second arm 92. The second arm 92 has the same shape, structure, and size as the first arm 82 and functions in the same way as the first arm 82. The first end 92a of the second arm 92 is connected to the first end 93a of the second auxiliary arm 93. In other words, the second auxiliary arm 93 supports the second arm 92 (and by extension, the second manual operation unit 90) at its first end 93a. The first end 93a of the second auxiliary arm 93 coincides with the first end 92a of the second arm 92. The second end 92b of the second arm 92 is connected to the second operating body 91.

[0193] As mentioned above, the switch plate 62 is a single molded product. Therefore, the first manual operation unit 80, the first auxiliary arm 83, the second manual operation unit 90, the second auxiliary arm 93, and the support member 70 are all integrally molded.

[0194] The first arm 82 extends from the first end 83a of the first auxiliary arm 83 so as to continuously follow the curved shape of the first end 83a of the first auxiliary arm 83. The boundary portion between the first arm 82 and the first auxiliary arm 83 is referred to as the first bent portion 84. The first bent portion 84 has a U-shaped bend. The first bent portion 84 includes the first end 82a of the first arm 82 and the first end 83a of the first auxiliary arm 83.

[0195] The second arm 92 extends from the first end 93a of the second auxiliary arm 93 so as to continuously follow the curved shape of the first end 93a of the second auxiliary arm 93. The boundary portion between the second arm 92 and the second auxiliary arm 93 is referred to as the second bent portion 94. The second bent portion 94 has a U-shaped bend. The second bent portion 94 includes the first end 92a of the second arm 92 and the first end 93a of the second auxiliary arm 93.

[0196] Here, we define the first reference plane PL11 and the second reference plane. The first reference plane PL11 is illustrated in Figure 16. The first reference plane PL11 is a hypothetical plane perpendicular to the downward direction and passing through the second end 82b of the first arm 82. The second reference plane is a hypothetical plane perpendicular to the downward direction and passing through the second end 92b of the second arm 92. In this second embodiment, the second reference plane coincides with the first reference plane PL11. Therefore, in the following description of this second embodiment, the first reference plane PL11 and the second reference plane will simply be referred to as "reference planes".

[0197] The positions and operations of the first manual operation unit 80 and the second manual operation unit 90 will be described in detail with reference to Figures 16 and 17. The first arm 82 extends from its first end 82a toward the reference plane. The first auxiliary arm 83 also extends from its first end 83a toward the reference plane.

[0198] In the initial state, the first end 82a of the first arm 82 is spaced downward from the reference plane. The initial state is when the first and second manual operation units 80 and 90 are not operated manually. Furthermore, in the initial state, the distance from the reference plane to the first end 82a (or the lower end of the first end 82a) of the first arm 82 is greater than or equal to the distance from the reference plane to the upper surface of the first movable piece 66a (more specifically, the position where the contact portion 85 of the first operating body 81 makes contact).

[0199] Here, we define a first angle α2 and a second angle β2. The first angle α2 is the angle with respect to the reference plane in the direction in which the first arm 82 extends from the first end 82a to the second end 82b (i.e., the straight line connecting the first end 82a and the second end 82b). The second angle β2 is the angle with respect to the reference plane in the direction in which the first auxiliary arm 83 extends from the first end 83a to the second end 83b (i.e., the straight line connecting the first end 83a and the second end 83b). The first angle α2 is smaller than the second angle β2.

[0200] Furthermore, the distance from the first end 82a to the second end 82b of the first arm 82 in the direction along the reference plane is longer than the distance from the first end 83a to the second end 83b of the first auxiliary arm 83 in the direction along the reference plane.

[0201] Here, in this second embodiment, the first spring constant and the second spring constant are also defined. The first auxiliary arm 83 can be elastically deformed relative to the support member 70 by the force applied to the first auxiliary arm 83 in response to the first operating body 81 being pushed downward. The first spring constant indicates the resistance of the first auxiliary arm 83 to elastic deformation relative to the support member 70.

[0202] The first arm 82 undergoes elastic deformation relative to the first auxiliary arm 83 due to the force applied to the first arm 82 in response to the first operating body 81 being pushed downward. In other words, the bent portion 84 undergoes elastic deformation. That is, the angle between the first arm 82 and the first auxiliary arm 83 widens. The second spring constant indicates the resistance of the bent portion 84 to elastic deformation.

[0203] Furthermore, the second spring constant is smaller than the first spring constant. In other words, when the first operating body 81 is pushed downward, the bending portion 84 undergoes greater elastic deformation. At this time, the first auxiliary arm 83 does not undergo elastic deformation relative to the support member 70, or undergoes less elastic deformation than the bending portion 84.

[0204] Similar to the arm 32 in the first embodiment, the width of the first arm 82 is at least twice the thickness of the first arm 82. With such a configuration, when the first operation body 81 is pushed downward, the first operation body 81, together with the first arm 82, is displaced downward with the bending portion 84 as a fulcrum. That is, the bending portion 84 is elastically deformed, whereby the first manual operation portion 80 is displaced downward.

[0205] As a result, as illustrated in FIG. 17, the first operation body 81 abuts on the upper surface of the first movable piece 66a, and a first load is applied from the first operation body 81 to the first movable piece 66a. At this time, the vector of the force applied to the first movable piece 66a may coincide with the downward direction or may include a large downward component. That is, most or all of the force applied to the first movable piece 66a contributes to the downward movement of the first movable piece 66a as the first load.

[0206] When a first load is applied from the first operation body 81 to the first movable piece 66a, the first movable piece 66a moves downward. As a result, the first switch 66 is turned on. When the first operation body 81 is separated from the first movable piece 66a that has moved downward, the first movable piece 66a moves upward and returns to the initial state again. As a result, the first switch 66 is turned off.

[0207] Note that the first end 82a and the second end 82b of the first arm 82 may be defined in any manner, similar to the first end 32a and the second end 32b of the arm 32 in the first embodiment. The same applies to the first end 33a and the second end 33b of the auxiliary arm 33, the first end 92a and the second end 92b of the second arm 92, and the first end 93a and the second end 93b of the second auxiliary arm 93.

[0208] The above description regarding the position and operation of the first manual operation unit 80 is similarly applicable to the second manual operation unit 90. That is, in the initial state, the first end 92a of the second arm 92 is spaced downward from the reference plane. Also, in the initial state, the distance from the reference plane to the first end 92a (or the lower end of the first end 92a) of the second arm 92 is greater than or equal to the distance from the reference plane to the upper surface of the second movable piece 67a. Also, the first angle α2 is smaller than the second angle β2. The first angle α2 is the angle of the direction in which the first arm 82 extends from the first end 82a to the second end 82b (i.e., the straight line connecting the first end 82a and the second end 82b) with respect to the reference plane. The second angle β2 is the angle of the direction in which the first auxiliary arm 83 extends from the first end 83a to the second end 83b (i.e., the straight line connecting the first end 83a and the second end 83b) with respect to the reference plane. Other features of the first manual operation unit 80 (such as the aforementioned distance, spring constant, width and thickness of the first arm 82, etc.) are also possessed by the second manual operation unit 90 in the same manner.

[0209] With such a configuration, when the second operation main body 91 is pushed downward, the second operation main body 91, together with the second arm 92, is displaced downward with the second bending portion 94 as a fulcrum. As a result, as in FIG. 17, the second operation main body 91 abuts against the upper surface of the second movable piece 67a, and a second load is applied from the second operation main body 91 to the second movable piece 67a. The characteristics of the vector of the force applied to the second movable piece 67a at this time are the same as the characteristics of the vector of the force applied to the first movable piece 66a.

[0210] As shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, the switch unit 60 includes a label 61. The label 61 covers the entire upper surface of the support member 70 on the switch plate 62. The label 61 has basically the same material (or composition) as the label 11 of the first embodiment and is used for the same purpose as the label 11.

[0211] (2-2-4) Fixing of the Switch Unit to the Housing Regarding the configuration for supporting the switch unit 60 in the housing 51, an explanation will be given.

[0212] As shown in Figures 13 and 14, the switch plate 62 includes a flange (or rib) 77 along its outer circumference. The flange 77 can be considered as part of the support 78. In other words, it may be said that the support 78 has the flange 77 along its outer circumference.

[0213] The outer circumference of the flange 77 (i.e., the outer circumference of the support 78, and consequently the outer circumference of the switch plate 62) includes a first curved region 77a, a second curved region 77b, a third curved region 77c, and a fourth curved region 77d. The first to fourth curved regions 77a, 77b, 77c, and 77d are curved regions on the outer circumference of the flange 77.

[0214] The curvature of the first curved region 77a is greater than the curvature of the third curved region 77c and the curvature of the fourth curved region 77d. The curvature of the second curved region 77b is greater than the curvature of the third curved region 77c and the curvature of the fourth curved region 77d. In this second embodiment, the curvature of the first curved region 77a is equal to the curvature of the second curved region 77b, and the curvature of the third curved region 77c is equal to the curvature of the fourth curved region 77d.

[0215] The outer circumference of flange 77 includes a first straight region 77e, a second straight region 77f, a third straight region 77g, and a fourth straight region 77h. The first straight region 77e is the straight region between the first curved region 77a and the fourth curved region 77d. The second straight region 77f is the straight region between the second curved region 77b and the third curved region 77c. The third straight region 77g is the straight region between the first curved region 77a and the second curved region 77b. The fourth straight region 77h is the straight region between the third curved region 77c and the fourth curved region 77d.

[0216] Here, the outer circumference of the flange 77 is defined as a first outer circumference portion and a second outer circumference portion. The outer circumference of the flange 77 is divided into a first outer circumference portion and a second outer circumference portion, with the first boundary B1 and the second boundary B2 (see Figure 14) as boundaries. The first outer circumference portion extends from the first boundary B1 through the first curved region 77a, the third straight region 77g, and the second curved region 77b to the second boundary B2. The second outer circumference portion extends from the first boundary B1 through the third curved region 77c, the fourth straight region 77h, and the fourth curved region 77d to the second boundary B2. The first boundary B1 lies on the first straight region 77e, and the second boundary B2 lies on the second straight region 77f. In the first straight region 77e, the length from the first boundary B1 to the first curved region 77a is longer than the length from the first boundary B1 to the third curved region 77c. In the second straight region 77f, the length from the second boundary B2 to the second curved region 77b is longer than the length from the second boundary B2 to the fourth curved region 77d.

[0217] The shape of the first outer perimeter is different from the shape of the second outer perimeter. In other words, the first and second outer perimeters are asymmetrical to each other. As shown in Figure 18, the first housing 52 includes a first support portion 58. The first support portion 58 has a groove-like shape. The first support portion 58 has a fitting space 58a. Specifically, the first support portion 58 includes a first rib 52a and a second rib 52b. The fitting space 58a corresponds to the space between the first rib 52a and the second rib 52b. The first outer peripheral portion of the flange 77 is fitted into the fitting space 58a.

[0218] In the manufacturing process of the field electrical equipment 50, the switch plate 62 is inserted into the first support portion 58 in the insertion direction Din when it is not assembled. The unassembled state is when the switch plate 62 is not attached to the housing 51 and the second housing 53 is separated from the first housing 52.

[0219] The first support portion 58 includes a first guide 58b and a second guide 58c. The first guide 58b and the second guide 58c are provided along the insertion direction Din. The first linear region 77e and the second linear region 77f are parallel to the insertion direction Din.

[0220] In the unassembled state, when the switch plate 62 is inserted into the insertion space 58a from its first outer circumference along the insertion direction Din, the switch plate 62 moves in the insertion direction Din while being guided by the first guide 58b and the second guide 58c.

[0221] Then, as shown in Figure 19, the entire first outer periphery fits into the fitting space 58a, thereby temporarily assembling (i.e., temporarily supporting) the switch plate 62 to the housing 51. In other words, it is put into a semi-fixed state. At this time, the second outer periphery is outside the fitting space 58a.

[0222] In this embodiment, in the semi-fixed state, more than half of the first linear region 77e and more than half of the second linear region 77f are located within the insertion space 58a. After the initial assembly, the second housing 53 is fitted into the first housing 52, as shown in Figure 20. The second housing 53 includes a second support portion 59, which has a structure similar to that of the first support portion 58. Once the second housing 53 is fitted into the first housing 52, the second outer peripheral portion of the flange 77 of the switch plate 62 is fitted into the second support portion 59. This secures the switch plate 62 to the housing 51.

[0223] In this second embodiment, the shape of the second outer circumference differs from the shape of the first outer circumference. Therefore, the switch plate 62 can be easily and properly assembled into the first housing 52. That is, for example, it is possible to suppress or prevent attempting to mistakenly fit the second outer circumference into the first housing 52.

[0224] Furthermore, the first linear region 77e and the second linear region 77f are parallel to the insertion direction Din. Therefore, the switch plate 62 can be easily inserted into the first housing 52, and the switch plate 62 is less likely to come off the first housing 52 after insertion.

[0225] Furthermore, the curvature of the first curved region 77a and the curvature of the second curved region 77b are greater than the curvature of the third curved region 77c and the curvature of the fourth curved region 77d. Therefore, the second housing 53 can be easily assembled to the semi-fixed first housing 52. In other words, the second outer circumference of the switch plate 62 can be easily fitted into the second support portion 59 of the second housing 53. To elaborate on this effect, the greater the curvature of the third and fourth curved regions 77c and 77d (in other words, the smaller the radius of curvature), the more difficult it may be to fit the second outer circumference into the second support portion 59 of the second housing 53. Conversely, by reducing the curvature of the third and fourth curved regions 77c and 77d (in other words, increasing the radius of curvature), it becomes easier to fit the second outer circumference into the second support portion 59 of the second housing 53.

[0226] On the other hand, with respect to the first outer circumference, by relatively increasing the curvature of the first and second curved regions 77a and 77b, it becomes possible to make it less likely for the switch plate 62 to come off the first housing 52 when it is in a semi-fixed state.

[0227] Furthermore, the outer periphery of the flange 77 has a first linear region 77e and a second linear region 77f parallel to the insertion direction Din. This makes it more difficult for the switch plate 62 to come off the first housing 52. Supplementary remarks are also made about this effect. In the present second embodiment, a circuit board 65 is fixed to the switch plate 62. The circuit board 65 integrates not only the switch circuit 63 but also the controller 260. That is, a relatively large load is applied to the switch plate 62. Moreover, the switch plate 62 is positioned offset from its center (or center of gravity) on the circuit board 65. Therefore, in the semi-fixed state, the load applied from the switch plate 62 to the first support portion 58 of the first housing 52 varies depending on the position of the first support portion 58. Specifically, the load applied from the switch plate 62 to the region of the first support portion 58 closer to the front is larger than the load applied from the switch plate 62 to the region closer to the rear. Such an imbalance in load may reduce the stability of the switch plate 62 in the semi-fixed state.

[0228] In contrast, in the present second embodiment, in the semi-fixed state, more than half of each of the first linear region 77e and the second linear region 77f is inserted into the first support portion 58. This suppresses the switch plate 62 from coming off the first support portion 58.

[0229] [2-3. Third Embodiment] Another form of the switch unit will be described with reference to FIGS. 21 to 24. The switch unit 100 of the present third embodiment can be used in various on-site electrical equipment in the same manner as the switch unit 10 of the first embodiment or the switch unit 100 of the second embodiment.

[0230] As shown in FIG. 22, the switch unit 100 includes a switch circuit 102. The switch circuit 102 includes a first switch 105, a second switch 106, a third switch 107, and a display unit 108.

[0231] The switch circuit 102 includes a circuit board 103. The first switch 105, the second switch 106, the third switch 107, and the display unit 108 are mounted on the substrate surface 103a of the circuit board 103.

[0232] The first switch 105 is the same component as the first switch 66 in the second embodiment, and the second switch 106 is the same component as the second switch 67 in the second embodiment. The third switch 107 is also the same component as the first switch 66 or the second switch 67 in the second embodiment (and therefore the same component as the switch 15 in the first embodiment).

[0233] Specifically, the first switch 105 is equipped with a first movable piece 105a on its upper part. The second switch 106 is equipped with a second movable piece 106a on its upper part. The third switch 107 is provided with a third movable piece 107a on its upper part. The third movable piece 107a is configured such that a third operating body 141 contacts the upper surface of the third movable piece 107a. The third operating body 141 corresponds to the operating body 31 of the first embodiment. The third movable piece 107a is configured to move downward in response to a downward third load, thereby electrically turning on the third switch 107. The third load may be of any magnitude. In this third embodiment, the third load is the same as the first load and / or second load.

[0234] The switch unit 100 includes a switch plate 101. The switch plate 101 has an overall plate-like shape, or more specifically, a thin, partially open tray-like shape. This is just one example, but the switch plate 101 is in the form of a single molded product. That is, each part of the switch plate 101 described below is formed integrally. The switch plate 101 may be a resin molded product mainly composed of resin. The switch plate 101 is fixed to the circuit board 103 by screws.

[0235] The switch plate 101 includes a first manual operation section 120, a second manual operation section 130, and a third manual operation section 140. The first manual operation unit 120 has essentially the same shape, structure, and size as the first manual operation unit 80 of the second embodiment, and functions in the same way, except that the length of the first arm 122 corresponding to the first arm 122 is slightly longer than that of the first manual operation unit 80 of the second embodiment.

[0236] The second manual operation unit 130 and the third manual operation unit 140 have the same shape, structure, and size as the first manual operation unit 120, and function in the same way. The switch plate 101 includes a support 119. The support 119 supports the first to third manual operating units 120, 130, and 140.

[0237] The support body 119 includes a support member 110. The support member 110 has a plate-like shape. The support member 110 has a first opening 111, a second opening 112, a third opening 113, and a fourth opening 114 that are open in the vertical direction. The first manual operation unit 120 is located in the first opening 111. The second manual operation unit 130 is located in the second opening 112. The third manual operation unit 140 is located in the third opening 113. The display unit 108 is located spaced downward from the fourth opening 114. When the switch plate 101 is viewed downward from the outside, the display unit 108 can be seen through the fourth opening 114.

[0238] The support 119 comprises a first auxiliary arm 123, a second auxiliary arm 133, and a third auxiliary arm 143. These first to third auxiliary arms 123, 133, and 143 have the same shape, structure, and size as the first auxiliary arm 83 of the second embodiment and function in the same way as the first auxiliary arm 83. Specifically, the first auxiliary arm 123 has a first end 123a and a second end 123b, with the second end 123b connected to the support member 110. The second auxiliary arm 133 has a first end 133a and a second end 133b, with the second end 133b connected to the support member 110. The third auxiliary arm 143 has a first end 143a and a second end 143b, with the second end 143b connected to the support member 110.

[0239] The first manual operation unit 120 includes a first operating body 121. The first operating body 121 has basically the same shape, structure and size as the first operating body 81 of the second embodiment and functions in the same way as the first operating body 81. The first operating body 121 is positioned spaced upward from the first movable piece 105a. The first operating body 121 has a contact portion 125 (see Figure 23) at its lower end.

[0240] The first manual operation unit 120 includes a first arm 122. The first arm 122 is slightly different in length from the first arm 82 of the second embodiment, but functions basically the same as the first arm 82. The first end 122a of the first arm 122 is connected to the first end 123a of the first auxiliary arm 123. The second end 122b of the first arm 122 is connected to the first operating body 121.

[0241] The second manual operation unit 130 includes a second operating body (or second button) 131. The second operating body 131 has the same shape, structure and size as the first operating body 121 and functions in the same way as the first operating body 121. The second operating body 131 is positioned spaced upward from the second movable piece 106a. The second operating body 131 has a contact portion 135 (see Figure 23) at its lower end.

[0242] The second manual operation unit 130 includes a second arm 132. The second arm 132 has the same shape, structure, and size as the first arm 122 and functions in the same way as the first arm 122. The first end 132a of the second arm 132 is connected to the first end 133a of the second auxiliary arm 133. The second end 132b of the second arm 132 is connected to the second operating body 131.

[0243] The third manual operation unit 140 includes a third arm 142. The third arm 142 has the same shape, structure and size as the first arm 122 and functions in the same way as the first arm 122. The first end 142a of the third arm 142 is connected to the first end 143a of the third auxiliary arm 143. The second end 142b of the third arm 142 is connected to the third operating body 141.

[0244] The switch plate 101 is a single molded product. Therefore, the first to third manual operating parts 120, 130, 140, the first to third auxiliary arms 123, 133, 143, and the support member 110 are integrally molded. The integrally molded product has a first bent portion 124, a second bent portion 134, and a third bent portion 144. The first bent portion 124 is a U-shaped bent portion including the boundary portion between the first arm 122 and the first auxiliary arm 123. The second bent portion 134 is a U-shaped bent portion including the boundary portion between the second arm 132 and the second auxiliary arm 133. The third bent portion 144 is a U-shaped bent portion including the boundary portion between the third arm 142 and the third auxiliary arm 143.

[0245] In this third embodiment, a first reference plane, a second reference plane, and a third reference plane are defined. The first reference plane is a virtual plane that is perpendicular to the downward direction and passes through the second end 122b of the first arm 122, similar to the first reference plane PL11 in the second embodiment. The second reference plane is a virtual plane that is perpendicular to the downward direction and passes through the second end 132b of the second arm 132. The third reference plane is a virtual plane that is perpendicular to the downward direction and passes through the second end 142b of the third arm 142. In this third embodiment, the first to third reference planes coincide. Therefore, in this third embodiment as well, the first to third reference planes are simply referred to as "reference planes".

[0246] In the initial state, the first end 122a of the first arm 122 is spaced downward from the reference plane. The initial state is when the first, second, and third manual operation units 120, 130, and 140 are not manually operated. Also, in the initial state, the distance from the reference plane to the first end 122a (or the lower end of the first end 122a) of the first arm 122 is greater than or equal to the distance from the reference plane to the upper surface of the first movable piece 105a (more specifically, the position where the contact portion 125 of the first operating body 121 makes contact). The same applies to the relative positions of the second arm 132, the reference plane, and the second movable piece 106a, and the relative positions of the third arm 142, the reference plane, and the third movable piece 107a.

[0247] Furthermore, the relationship between the first angle α2 and the second angle β2 in the second embodiment is applied similarly to the first to third manual operation units 120, 130, and 140 of this third embodiment.

[0248] Furthermore, the relationship between the first spring constant and the second spring constant in the second embodiment is also applied similarly to the first to third manual operating units 120, 130, and 140 of this third embodiment.

[0249] Furthermore, the relationships between the various distances in the direction along the reference plane, as in the second embodiment, are similarly applied to the first to third manual operation units 120, 130, and 140 of this third embodiment.

[0250] Therefore, taking the third manual operation unit 140 as an example, when the third operating body 141 is pushed downward, the third operating body 141, together with the third arm 142, is displaced downward with the third bending portion 144 as the pivot point. That is, the third bending portion 144 undergoes elastic deformation, which causes the third manual operation unit 140 to be displaced downward.

[0251] As a result, similar to Figure 17 of the second embodiment, the third operating body 141 contacts the upper surface of the third movable piece 107a, and a third load is applied from the third operating body 141 to the third movable piece 107a. This causes the third movable piece 107a to move downward, and the third switch 107 is turned on.

[0252] Further features of this third embodiment will be described. In this third embodiment, the first operating body 121, the second operating body 131, and the third operating body 141 are not on the same straight line. Specifically, as shown in Figure 24, the angle between the first separation direction D41 and the second separation direction D42 is 80° or more and 100° or less. This angle may be, for example, 90°.

[0253] The first separation direction D41 is the direction from the second operating body 131 to the first operating body 121 when the switch plate 101 is viewed downwards from the outside. In other words, the first separation direction D41 is the component parallel to the reference plane of the direction from the second operating body 131 to the first operating body 121. The second separation direction D42 is the direction from the second operating body 131 to the third operating body 141 when the switch plate 101 is viewed downwards from the outside. In other words, the second separation direction D42 is the component parallel to the reference plane of the direction from the second operating body 131 to the third operating body 141. Note that in Figure 24, the reference plane is the plane parallel to the plane of the paper in Figure 24.

[0254] Furthermore, at least two of the first extension initiation direction D21 of the first arm 122, the second extension initiation direction D22 of the second arm 132, and the third extension initiation direction D23 of the third arm 142 are different from each other.

[0255] The first extension initiation direction D21 is the direction in which the first arm 122 extends from its first end 122a when viewed downward from the outside of the first arm 122. In other words, the first extension initiation direction D21 is the component in the direction parallel to the reference plane in the direction in which the first arm 122 extends from its first end 122a.

[0256] The second extension initiation direction D22 is the direction in which the second arm 132 extends from its first end 132a when viewed downward from the outside of the second arm 132. In other words, the second extension initiation direction D22 is the component in the direction parallel to the reference plane in the direction in which the second arm 132 extends from its first end 132a.

[0257] The third extension initiation direction D23 is the direction in which the third arm 142 extends from its first end 142a when viewed downward from the outside of the third arm 142. In other words, the third extension initiation direction D23 is the component in the direction parallel to the reference plane in the direction in which the third arm 142 extends from its first end 142a.

[0258] In this third embodiment, the first extension initiation direction D21, the second extension initiation direction D22, and the third extension initiation direction D23 are different from each other. Specifically, the angle between the second extension initiation direction D22 and the third extension initiation direction D23 is 170° or more and 180° or less. This angle may be 180°. Also, the first extension initiation direction D21 is non-parallel to the second extension initiation direction D22 and the third extension initiation direction D23. However, these are merely examples, and the first extension initiation direction D21, the second extension initiation direction D22, and the third extension initiation direction D23 may be determined in any way.

[0259] Furthermore, in this third embodiment, the display unit 108 is positioned spaced apart from the second switch 106 in a direction that is a combination of the first separation direction and the second separation direction. Here, we define a virtual parallelogram in which the vertices are located in the first operating body 121, the second operating body 131, and the third operating body 141, respectively. This parallelogram is parallel to the reference plane. In this case, the other vertices of the parallelogram may be located within the display unit 108.

[0260] [2-4. Fourth Embodiment] Other forms of the switch unit will be described with reference to Figures 25 to 28. The switch unit 150 of this fourth embodiment can be used with various field electrical equipment, just like the switch unit 10 of the first embodiment or the switch unit 60 of the second embodiment.

[0261] As shown in Figure 26, the switch unit 150 includes a switch circuit 152. The switch circuit 152 includes a first switch 154, a second switch 155, and a plurality of light emitters 156.

[0262] The switch circuit 152 includes a circuit board 153. The first switch 154, the second switch 155, and the multiple light emitters 156 are mounted on the substrate surface 153a of the circuit board 153.

[0263] Each of the first and second switches 154 and 155 is the same component as the switch 15 of the first embodiment. That is, the first switch 154 is provided with a first movable piece 154a on its upper part. The second switch 155 is provided with a second movable piece 155a on its upper part.

[0264] The switch unit 150 includes a switch plate 151. The switch plate 151 is a single molded product. The switch plate 151 has an overall plate-like shape, or more specifically, a thin, partially open tray-like shape. This is just one example, but the switch plate 151 is in the form of a single molded product. That is, each part of the switch plate 151 described below is formed integrally. The switch plate 151 may also be a resin molded product mainly composed of resin. The switch plate 151 is fixed to the circuit board 153 by screws.

[0265] The switch plate 151 includes a first manual operating section 170 and a second manual operating section 180. The first and second manual operating sections 170 and 180 have essentially the same shape, structure, and size as the manual operating section 30 of the first embodiment, and function in the same way, except that the length of the portion corresponding to the starting portion 321 in the arm 32 is longer than that of the manual operating section 30 of the first embodiment.

[0266] The switch plate 151 includes a support 186. The support 186 supports the first and second manual operating units 170 and 180. The support 186 includes a support member 160. The support member 160 has a plate-like shape. The support member 160 includes a first opening 161, a second opening 162, and a plurality of third openings 163 that are open in the vertical direction. The first manual operating unit 170 is located within the first opening 161. The second manual operating unit 180 is located within the second opening 162. Each of the plurality of light emitters 156 is located spaced downward from a corresponding one 72 of the plurality of third openings 163.

[0267] The support 186 comprises a first auxiliary arm 173 and a second auxiliary arm 183. These first and second auxiliary arms 173 and 183 have the same shape, structure and size as the auxiliary arm 33 of the first embodiment and function in the same way as the auxiliary arm 33. Specifically, the first auxiliary arm 173 has a first end 173a and a second end 173b, with the second end 173b connected to the support member 160. The second auxiliary arm 183 has a first end 183a and a second end 183b, with the second end 183b connected to the support member 160.

[0268] The first manual operation unit 170 includes a first operating body 171. The first operating body 171 has the same shape, structure and size as the operating body 31 of the first embodiment and functions in the same way as the operating body 31. The first operating body 171 is positioned spaced upward from the first movable piece 154a. The first operating body 171 has a contact portion 175 (see Figure 27) at its lower end.

[0269] The first manual operation unit 170 includes a first arm 172. The first arm 172 functions essentially the same as the arm 32 of the first embodiment, except that its length is slightly different. The first end 172a of the first arm 172 is connected to the first end 173a of the first auxiliary arm 173.

[0270] The second manual operation unit 180 includes a second operating body 181. The second operating body 181 is positioned spaced upward from the second movable piece 155a. The second operating body 181 has a contact portion 185 (see Figure 27) at its lower end.

[0271] The second manual operation unit 180 includes a second arm 182. The second arm 182 has the same shape, structure and size as the first arm 172 and functions in the same way as the first arm 172. The first end 182a of the second arm 182 is connected to the first end 183a of the second auxiliary arm 183.

[0272] The switch plate 151 has a first bent portion 174 and a second bent portion 184. The first bent portion 174 is a U-shaped bent portion that includes the boundary portion between the first arm 172 and the first auxiliary arm 173. The second bent portion 184 is a U-shaped bent portion that includes the boundary portion between the second arm 182 and the second auxiliary arm 183.

[0273] In this fourth embodiment, a reference plane is also defined. The reference plane is a hypothetical plane that is perpendicular to the downward direction and passes through the second end 172b of the first arm 172 and the second end 182b of the second arm 182. In the initial state, the first end 172a of the first arm 172 and the first end 182a of the second arm 182 are spaced apart from the reference plane in the downward direction.

[0274] Furthermore, the relationship between the distance from the first reference plane PL1 to the first end 32a of the arm 32 and the distance from the reference plane to the upper surface of the movable piece 15a in the first embodiment is similarly applied to the relationship between the first manual operation unit 170 and the first movable piece 154a, and between the second manual operation unit 180 and the second movable piece 155a in this fourth embodiment.

[0275] Furthermore, the relationship between the first angle α1 and the second angle β1 in the first embodiment is applied similarly to the first and second manual operation units 170 and 180 of this fourth embodiment. Furthermore, the relationship between the first spring constant and the second spring constant in the first embodiment is also applied similarly to the first and second manual operation units 170 and 180 of this fourth embodiment.

[0276] Furthermore, the relationships between the various distances in the direction along the reference plane, as in the first embodiment, are also applied similarly to the first and second manual operation units 170 and 180 of this fourth embodiment.

[0277] Further features of this fourth embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 28. The first arm 172 includes a first starting portion 1721. The first starting portion 1721 corresponds to the portion of the first arm 172 that extends from the first end 172a of the first arm 172 in a first extension initiation direction D11. The first extension initiation direction D11 is the direction in which the first arm 172 extends from the first end 172a when viewed downward from outside the first arm 172. In other words, the first extension initiation direction D11 is the component in the direction in which the first arm 172 extends from the first end 172a of the first arm 172 that is parallel to the reference plane. In Figure 28, the reference plane is the plane parallel to the plane of the paper in Figure 28.

[0278] The first arm 172 further comprises a first continuation portion 1722. The first continuation portion 1722 corresponds to the portion of the first arm 172 that extends from the tip of the first starting portion 1721 in a first extension direction D12. The first extension direction D12 is the direction extending from the tip of the first starting portion 1721 (i.e., the end opposite to the first end 172a) when the first arm 172 is viewed downward from the outside. In other words, the first extension direction D12 is the component in the direction parallel to the reference plane in the direction in which the first continuation portion 1722 extends from the first starting portion 1721. The first extension direction D12 is different from the first extension starting direction D11.

[0279] Similarly, the second arm 182 includes a second starting portion 1821. The second starting portion 1821 corresponds to the portion of the second arm 182 that extends from the first end 182a of the second arm 182 in a second extension initiation direction D21. The second extension initiation direction D21 is the direction in which the second arm 182 extends from the first end 182a when viewed downward from outside the second arm 182. In other words, the second extension initiation direction D21 is the component in the direction in which the second arm 182 extends from the first end 182a of the second arm 182 that is parallel to the reference plane.

[0280] The second arm 182 further comprises a second continuation portion 1822. The second continuation portion 1822 corresponds to the portion of the second arm 182 that extends from the tip of the second starting portion 1821 in the second extension direction D22. The second extension direction D22 is the direction extending from the tip of the second starting portion 1821 (i.e., the end opposite to the first end 182a) when the second arm 182 is viewed downward from the outside. In other words, the second extension direction D22 is the component in the direction parallel to the reference plane in the direction in which the second continuation portion 1822 extends from the second starting portion 1821. The second extension direction D22 is different from the second extension starting direction D21.

[0281] Furthermore, both the first continuation portion 1722 and the second continuation portion 1822 extend toward a predetermined imaginary straight line. The imaginary straight line is a hypothetical straight line passing through the second end 172b of the first arm 172 and the second end 182b of the second arm 182.

[0282] Furthermore, the first arm 172 extends from its first end 172a toward the first end 182a of the second arm 182. The second arm 182 extends from its first end 182a toward the first end 172a of the first arm 172.

[0283] Furthermore, the angle between the first extension initiation direction D11 of the first arm 172 and the second extension initiation direction D21 of the second arm 182 is greater than 170° and less than or equal to 180°. This angle may be 180°.

[0284] [2-5. Other Embodiments] Although embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above and can be implemented in various modified forms.

[0285] In each of the embodiments described above, the switch unit had a bent portion. However, having a bent portion is not essential. Figure 29 shows an example of a switch unit without a bent portion. In Figure 1, the same components as in the second embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment.

[0286] In Figure 29, the support member 900 includes a rib 900a extending downward from the edge of the first opening 21. The width (length in the direction perpendicular to the plane of the paper) of the rib 900a is greater than the width of the first arm 82. However, the width of the rib 900a may be determined as appropriate.

[0287] Furthermore, the first arm 82 extends from the lower end of the rib 900a. In other words, the first end 82a of the first arm 82 is located at the lower end of the rib 900a. Even with this configuration, the same effect as in the second embodiment can be obtained in terms of properly pressing the first movable piece 66a.

[0288] The first end 82a of the first arm 82 may be supported by any member. The first arm 82 may be supported by a support member of a different form than the auxiliary arm in each of the above embodiments and the rib 900a in Figure 29.

[0289] [2-6. Supplementary Information] Multiple functions achieved by one component in the above embodiment may be achieved by multiple components, and one function achieved by one component may be achieved by multiple components. Also, multiple functions achieved by multiple components may be achieved by one component, and one function achieved by multiple components may be achieved by one component. Furthermore, some parts of the configuration of the above embodiment may be omitted. Furthermore, at least some parts of the configuration of one embodiment may be added to or replaced with the configuration of another embodiment. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0290] 1.50...Field electrical equipment, 10, 60, 100, 150...Switch unit, 12, 62, 101, 151...Switch plate, 15...Switch, 15a...Movable piece, 20, 70, 110, 160...Support member, 24, 78, 119, 186...Support body, 30...Manual operation part, 31...Operation body, 32...Arm, 33...Auxiliary arm, 34...Bending part, 40, 45 ...motor, 51...housing, 52...first housing, 53...second housing, 58...first support part, 58a...fitting space, 59...second support part, 65...circuit board, 66,105,154...first switch, 66a,105a,154a...first movable piece, 67,106,155...second switch, 67a,106a,155a...second movable piece, 77a...first curved region 77b...Second curved region, 77c...Third curved region, 77d...Fourth curved region, 77e...First straight region, 77f...Second straight region, 80,120,170...First manual operation unit, 81,121,171...First operating body, 82,122,172...First arm, 83,123,173...First auxiliary arm, 84,124,174...First bending section, 90,130,18 0...Second manual operation unit, 91,131,181...Second operating body, 92,132,182...Second arm, 93,133,183...Second auxiliary arm, 94,134,184...Second bending section, 107...Third switch, 107a...Third movable piece, 140...Third manual operation unit, 141...Third operating body, 142...Third arm, 143...Third auxiliary arm, 144...Third bending section.

Claims

1. A first switch having a first movable piece configured to move in the first direction in response to receiving a first load in the first direction, First manual operation unit, A support body that supports the first manual operation unit, Equipped with, The first manual operation unit is, A first operating body is positioned spaced apart from the first movable piece in a second direction opposite to the first direction, A first arm having a first end connected to the support and a second end connected to the first operating body, wherein the first end is spaced apart from the first reference plane in the first direction in a first initial state when the first manual operating unit is not operated, and the first reference plane is a virtual plane perpendicular to the first direction and passing through the second end, The first operating body is configured to be displaced in the first direction in response to being pushed in the first direction, thereby applying a first load from the first operating body to the first movable piece. Electrical equipment for on-site use.

2. An electrical device for field use as described in claim 1, The first movable piece has a surface configured to be in contact with the first operating body and thereby receive the first load, In the first initial state, the distance from the first reference plane to the first end of the first arm is greater than or equal to the distance from the first reference plane to the surface. Electrical equipment for on-site use.

3. A field electrical device according to claim 1 or claim 2, The first manual operation unit is configured to be displaced in the first direction with its first end as a pivot point in response to the first operation body being pushed in the first direction. Electrical equipment for on-site use.

4. An electrical equipment for field use according to any one of claims 1 to 3, The first arm is, When the first arm is viewed in the first direction, the first starting portion extends from the first end of the first arm in the first starting direction, When the first arm is viewed in the first direction, the first continuation portion extends from the tip of the first starting portion in a first continuation direction different from the first starting direction of extension, Field electrical equipment equipped with the following features.

5. A field electrical device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, The width of the first arm is at least twice the thickness of the first arm. The width is the length of the first arm in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the first arm extends and parallel to the first reference plane. The thickness is the length of the first arm in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the first arm extends and perpendicular to the width. Electrical equipment for on-site use.

6. An electrical equipment for field use according to any one of claims 1 to 5, The support has a first opening that penetrates in a direction perpendicular to the first reference plane, The first manual operation unit is located within the first opening. The field electrical equipment further includes a light emitter, which is positioned spaced apart from the first opening in the first direction and configured to emit light through the first opening. Electrical equipment for on-site use.

7. A field electrical device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, The support comprises a first auxiliary arm extending from the first end of the first arm toward the first reference plane, the first auxiliary arm having a first end connected to the first end of the first arm and a second end opposite to the first end. Electrical equipment for on-site use.

8. The field electrical equipment according to claim 7, The distance from the first end of the first arm to the second end of the first arm, in the direction along the first reference plane, is longer than the distance from the first end of the first auxiliary arm to the second end of the first auxiliary arm, in the direction along the first reference plane. Electrical equipment for on-site use.

9. A field electrical device according to claim 7 or claim 8, The angle with respect to the first reference plane in the direction in which the first arm extends from its first end is smaller than the angle with respect to the first reference plane in the direction in which the first auxiliary arm extends from its first end. Electrical equipment for on-site use.

10. A field electrical device according to any one of claims 7 to 9, The product comprises an integrally molded part including the first arm and the first auxiliary arm, The integrally molded product includes a bent portion that corresponds to the boundary between the first arm and the first auxiliary arm and to the bent portion of the integrally molded product, The first manual operating unit is configured such that, in response to the first operating body being pushed in a first direction, the bending portion elastically deforms, thereby causing the first operating body to be displaced in the first direction. Electrical equipment for on-site use.

11. A field electrical device according to claim 10, The support member comprises a support member to which the second end of the first auxiliary arm is integrally connected, thereby supporting the first manual operation unit via the first auxiliary arm. The first auxiliary arm is configured to be elastically deformable relative to the support member at its second end. The first spring constant, which indicates the resistance of the first auxiliary arm to elastic deformation relative to the support member, is greater than the second spring constant, which indicates the resistance of the bending portion to elastic deformation. Electrical equipment for on-site use.

12. A field electrical device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, moreover, A second switch having a second movable piece configured to move in the first direction in response to a second load in the first direction, The second manual operation unit, Equipped with, The second manual operation unit is, A second operating body is positioned spaced apart from the second movable piece in the second direction, A second arm having a first end connected to the support and a second end connected to the second operating body, wherein the first end of the second arm is spaced apart from the second reference plane in the first direction in a second initial state when the second manual operating unit is not operated, and the second reference plane is a virtual plane perpendicular to the first direction and passing through the second end of the second arm, The second operating body is configured to be displaced in the first direction in response to being pushed in the first direction, thereby applying the second load from the second operating body to the second movable piece. Electrical equipment for on-site use.

13. The field electrical equipment according to claim 12, The first arm extends from its first end toward the first end of the second arm, The second arm extends from the first end of the second arm in a direction away from the first end of the first arm. Electrical equipment for on-site use.

14. The field electrical equipment according to claim 13, The angle between the first extension starting direction of the first arm and the second extension starting direction of the second arm is greater than 170° and less than or equal to 180°. The first extension initiation direction is the direction in which the first arm extends from its first end when viewed in the first direction. The second extension initiation direction is the direction in which the second arm extends from its first end when viewed in the first direction. Electrical equipment for on-site use.

15. A field electrical device according to claim 14, The first arm is, When the first arm is viewed in the first direction, a first starting portion extends from the first end of the first arm in the first starting direction of extension, When the first arm is viewed in the first direction, the first continuing portion extends from the tip of the first starting portion in a first extending and continuing direction, wherein the first extending and continuing direction is different from the first extending and starting direction. Equipped with, The second arm is, When the second arm is viewed in the first direction, the second starting portion extends from the first end of the second arm in the second starting direction, When the second arm is viewed in the first direction, the second continuing portion extends from the tip of the second starting portion in a second continuing extension direction, wherein the second continuing extension direction is different from the second starting extension direction. Equipped with, Both the first and second continuation portions extend toward a hypothetical straight line passing through the second end of the first arm and the second end of the second arm. Electrical equipment for on-site use.

16. An electrical equipment for field use according to any one of claims 12 to 15, moreover, A third switch having a third movable piece configured to move in the first direction in response to receiving a third load in the first direction, Third manual operation unit, Equipped with, The third manual operation unit is, A third operating body is positioned spaced apart from the third movable piece in the second direction, A third arm having a first end connected to the support and a second end connected to the third operating body, wherein the first end of the third arm is spaced apart from the third reference plane in the first direction in the third initial state when the third manual operating unit is not operated, and the third reference plane is a virtual plane perpendicular to the first direction and passing through the second end of the third arm, The third operating body is configured to be displaced in the first direction in response to being pushed in the first direction, thereby applying the third load from the third operating body to the third movable piece. The first operating body, the second operating body, and the third operating body are not on the same straight line. Electrical equipment for on-site use.

17. A field electrical device according to claim 16, The angle between the first separation direction, which is the direction from the second operating body to the first operating body when the first operating body and the second operating body are viewed in the first direction, and the second separation direction, which is the direction from the second operating body to the third operating body when the second operating body and the third operating body are viewed in the first direction, is 80° or more and 100° or less. Electrical equipment for on-site use.

18. The field electrical equipment according to claim 17, Furthermore, the field electrical equipment includes a display unit positioned at a distance from the second switch in a direction that is a combination of the first separation direction and the second separation direction, and configured to display information regarding the operation of the field electrical equipment.

19. A field electrical device according to any one of claims 16 to 18, At least two of the first extension initiation direction of the first arm, the second extension initiation direction of the second arm, and the third extension initiation direction of the third arm are different from each other. The first extension initiation direction is the direction in which the first arm extends from its first end when viewed in the first direction. The second extension initiation direction is the direction in which the second arm extends from its first end when viewed in the first direction. The third extension initiation direction is the direction in which the third arm extends from its first end when viewed in the first direction. Electrical equipment for on-site use.

20. A field electrical device according to claim 19, The first extension initiation direction, the second extension initiation direction, and the third extension initiation direction are different from each other, in a field electrical device.

21. A field electrical device according to claim 19 or claim 20, Field electrical equipment, wherein the angle between the second extension initiation direction and the third extension initiation direction is 170° or more and 180° or less.

22. A field electrical device according to any one of claims 19 to 21, Field electrical equipment, wherein the first extension initiation direction is non-parallel to the second extension initiation direction and the third extension initiation direction.

23. An electrical equipment for field use according to any one of claims 1 to 22, Furthermore, the housing comprises a housing that houses the first switch, and includes a first housing and a second housing that are combined with each other. The support has a plate-like shape, The first housing includes a first support portion into which a first outer peripheral portion, which is a part of the outer periphery of the support, is fitted, thereby supporting the support. The second housing includes a second support portion into which a second outer peripheral portion, which is a separate part of the outer peripheral portion of the support, is fitted, thereby supporting the support. The shape of the second outer circumference is different from the shape of the first outer circumference. Electrical equipment for on-site use.

24. A field electrical device according to claim 23, The support is configured such that, in an unassembled state in which the support is not attached to the housing and the second housing is separated from the first housing, the support is fitted into the first support in a predetermined fitting direction. Electrical equipment for on-site use.

25. A field electrical device according to claim 24, The outer circumference of the support is A first linear region is a linear region that includes one of the two boundaries between the first outer perimeter portion and the second outer perimeter portion, A second linear region is a linear region that includes the other of the two aforementioned boundaries, Electrical equipment for on-site use, including...

26. The field electrical equipment according to claim 25, The first linear region and the second linear region are parallel to the insertion direction. Electrical equipment for on-site use.

27. A field electrical device according to any one of claims 24 to 26, The first outer peripheral portion has a first curved region and a second curved region, respectively. The second outer periphery portion has a third curved region and a fourth curved region, respectively. The curvature of the first curved region and the curvature of the second curved region are greater than the curvature of the third curved region and the curvature of the fourth curved region. Electrical equipment for on-site use.

28. An electrical equipment for field use according to any one of claims 1 to 27, Electrical load and A control circuit configured to control the aforementioned electrical load, A circuit board on which the control circuit is mounted and the first switch and the support are fixed, Field electrical equipment equipped with the following features.

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