Electric high branch cutter

Abstract

The present invention makes it possible to provide electric pruning shears for which a blade angle can easily be adjusted and which have improved workability. Electric pruning shears 1 for cutting plants comprise: a cylindrical handle part 9 extending in a prescribed axial direction; a cutting part 3 attached to the distal-end part of the cylindrical handle part 9, the cutting part 3 having two blades, at least one of which is a movable blade 3B; a drive part 5 for applying driving force to the movable blade 3B; a housing 2 attached to a rear-end part of the cylindrical handle part 9, the housing 2 accommodating the drive part 5; a transmission mechanism 8 for transmitting the driving force to the movable blade 3B, the transmission mechanism 8 being interposed between the drive part 5 and the cutting part 3; a holding part 30 that holds the cylindrical handle part 9 so as to enable rotation around an axis with respect to the housing 2; and a rotation-restricting part 34 that restricts rotation of the cylindrical handle part 9 around the axis with respect to the housing 2 at a prescribed rotation angle.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an electric pole pruner used, for example, for pruning high-up branches and leaves of trees. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, an electric high-altitude pruning machine has been proposed as a pole pruner used to cut (prune) high-altitude branches and leaves (objects to be cut) on trees, which prunes the object by operating a blade located at the tip of the handle using the power of a power machine located at the rear end of the handle (see Patent Document 1).

[0003] However, with conventional electric high-altitude pruners, it is sometimes necessary to reach the necessary location by avoiding branches and leaves that are not the target of cutting, or to adjust the blade angle to match the angle of the branches and leaves to be cut. In such cases, conventional electric high-altitude pruners have a sturdy handle to ensure their functionality as electric shears, and the entire high-altitude pruner must be rotated to adjust the blade at the tip to the appropriate angle. Therefore, conventional electric high-altitude pruners have room for improvement in terms of operability. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2014-230533 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In view of the above problems, the present invention aims to provide an electric pole pruner that ensures the functionality of the electric pruner, allows the blade angle to be easily adjusted, and improves workability. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] This invention is an electric pole shears for cutting plants at high altitudes, comprising: a cylindrical handle extending in a predetermined axial direction; a cutting section attached to the tip of the cylindrical handle and having two blades, at least one of which is a movable blade; a drive section for applying a drive force to the movable blade; a housing attached to the rear end of the cylindrical handle and accommodating the drive section; a transmission mechanism interposed between the drive section and the cutting section and for transmitting the drive force to the movable blade; a holding section that holds the tubular handle rotatably around the axis of the tubular handle relative to the housing; and a rotation regulating section that regulates the rotation of the tubular handle about the axis relative to the housing to a predetermined rotation angle. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] This invention makes it possible to provide electric pole pruners that ensure functionality as electric scissors, allow the blade angle to be easily adjusted, and improves workability. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a front view showing the structure of an electric pole pruner according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a front view showing the structure of the electric pole pruner in a partially disassembled state. [Figure 3] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the transmission mechanism in a closed blade state. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the transmission mechanism in the open blade state. [Figure 5] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of a holding portion (stopper member). [Figure 6A] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing the relationship between the cylindrical handle and the rotation restricting portion in a first state. [Figure 6B] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing the relationship between the cylindrical handle and the rotation restricting portion in a second state. [Figure 6C] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing the relationship between the cylindrical handle and the rotation restricting portion in a third state. [Figure 7] 8A and 8B are schematic diagrams showing the structure of a mounting member in a modified embodiment. [Figure 8A]FIG. 10 is an end view showing the structure of the mounting member in the modified embodiment. [Figure 8B] FIG. 10 is an end view showing the structure of the mounting member in the modified embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a schematic view showing the structure of a holding portion in a modified embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of a holding portion in a modified embodiment. [Figure 11A] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of a holding portion in a modified embodiment. [Figure 11B] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of a holding portion in a modified embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Hereinafter, examples of embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 1 is a front view showing the structure of electric pole pruners 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention (first embodiment). Fig. 2 is a front view showing the structure of electric pole pruners 1 in a partially disassembled state. Fig. 3 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of transmission mechanism 8 in a blade-closed state. Fig. 4 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of transmission mechanism 8 in an open-blade state. Note that Fig. 2 omits illustration of the tip portion (second housing 22, cutting section 3, etc.), and Figs. 3 and 4 omit illustration of the right side of second housing 22 for ease of explanation.

[0010] The electric pole shears 1 of the present invention are scissors for cutting high-up branches and leaves (cutting objects) on trees, and are a type of electric shears that prune the objects by operating blades using power from an electric drive source. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the electric pole shears 1 have a drive unit 5 for applying drive force to the electric pole shears 1, a power supply unit 6 that supplies power to the drive unit 5, a control unit 7 that controls the operation of each unit of the electric pole shears 1, a transmission mechanism 8 that transmits the drive force of the drive unit 5 to the cutting unit 3, and a tubular handle 9 that extends in the direction of a predetermined axis (first axis C1).

[0011] The orientation of each part of the electric pole pruner 1 changes depending on the posture of the user holding the electric pole pruner 1, but for ease of explanation, in this specification, the axial direction (extension direction) of the tubular handle 9 is defined as the front-to-rear direction, the direction horizontally perpendicular to the axial direction of the tubular handle 9 is defined as the left-to-right direction, and the directions perpendicular to both the front-to-rear and left-to-right directions are defined as the up-to-down direction. Also, the side in the front-to-rear direction where the cutting part 3 is provided is defined as the front side, the right-hand side when facing forward is defined as the right direction, and the left-hand side when facing forward is defined as the left direction.

[0012] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 4, the housing 2 has a first housing 21 located at the rear end side of the housing 2, and a second housing 22 detachably provided at the front end of the first housing 21.

[0013] The first housing 21 has a grip portion 21a formed of a material whose outer surface has a greater frictional force (friction coefficient) than other portions of the first housing 21. The center portion of the first housing 21 in the longitudinal direction can be gripped by a user (operator) and used as a holding portion. The grip portion 21a is attached to the left and right outer surfaces of the center portion of the first housing 21 in the longitudinal direction. The grip portion 21a is formed of a material such as rubber or resin.

[0014] Each of the first housing 21 and the second housing 22 is formed from a hard material such as a metal or resin material, and is configured in a generally cylindrical shape extending in the front-to-rear direction and having an internal space. As shown in FIG. 2, the internal space of the first housing 21 accommodates a drive unit 5, a power supply unit 6, and a control unit 7. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the internal space of the second housing 22 accommodates a transmission mechanism 8 and a portion (rear end) of the cylindrical handle 9. In other words, it can be said that the housing 2 (first housing 21 and second housing 22) is attached to the rear end of the cylindrical handle 9.

[0015] 2, a mounting portion 23 for mounting the second housing 22 is provided at the front end of the first housing 21. The mounting portion 23 is provided with fixing screw holes 24, positioning holes 25, anti-rotation holes 26, an opening 27, and a groove 28.

[0016] The fixing screw holes 24 are screw holes for fixing the second housing 22. These fixing screw holes 24 extend in the left-right direction and are formed so as to open to the right, and two of them are provided on either side of the positioning hole 25. Although not shown because it is not an essential part of the present invention, the second housing 22 has fixing through holes formed therein that correspond to the fixing screw holes 24. The second housing 22 is attached to the attachment portion 23 by fastening the fixing through holes of the second housing 22 and the fixing screw holes 24 together with a predetermined fastening member. The second housing 22 can be detached from the attachment portion 23 by removing the fastening member.

[0017] The positioning hole 25 is provided in the center of the mounting portion 23 in the up-down direction and at the front end portion of the mounting portion 23 in the front-rear direction. The positioning hole 25 is formed in a metal plate 23a fixed to the first housing 21. The positioning hole 25 is a through hole extending in the left-right direction. Although not shown, the second housing 22 has a positioning through hole corresponding to the positioning hole 25. When the second housing 22 is attached to the mounting portion 23, the positioning through hole of the second housing 22 and the positioning hole 25 are aligned and fastened together with a predetermined fastening member, thereby positioning the second housing 22 with respect to the mounting portion 23.

[0018] The anti-rotation (fixing) hole 26 is provided in the center of the mounting portion 23 in the up-down direction and at the front end of the mounting portion 23 in the front-to-rear direction. It is formed in the metal plate 23a. This anti-rotation hole 26 is a through-hole extending in the left-to-right direction. Although not shown, the second housing 22 has a protrusion that fits into the anti-rotation hole 26, and when the second housing 22 is attached to the mounting portion 23, the protrusion of the second housing 22 and the anti-rotation hole 26 fit together.

[0019] The opening 27 is provided in the center of the mounting portion 23 in the up-down direction and at the rear end in the front-rear direction of the mounting portion 23. The opening 27 connects the internal space of the first housing 21 with the external space.

[0020] Groove portion 28 is located rearward of positioning hole 25, and has a groove (recess) formed in an arc shape with a predetermined width centered on the central axis of positioning hole 25. Groove portion 28 is arranged so as to overlap with opening 27. In other words, opening 27 is formed in the center of groove portion 28 in the up-down direction.

[0021] 1, the operation unit 4 is provided closer to the front end (front side) of the longitudinal center of the first housing 21, and has a trigger lever 41 and an operation finger protection unit 42, part of which protrudes outward from the first housing 21. The trigger lever 41 functions as an operation input unit that receives an operation input for operating the cutting unit 3.

[0022] The trigger lever 41 is rotatably supported inside the first housing 21, and rotates when force is applied. An operation detection sensor for detecting that the trigger lever 41 has been operated (rotated) is also provided inside the first housing 21. The operation detection sensor is electrically connected to the control unit 7, and sends a signal to the control unit 7 in response to the operation of the trigger lever 41. Note that a trigger button may be provided instead of the trigger lever 41.

[0023] Furthermore, the operating finger protection section 42 is formed to form an operation hole that surrounds the operation unit 4. However, the operation hole of the operating finger protection section 42 has a space that is large enough for the user to move their finger sufficiently when operating the operation unit 4. In this embodiment, the operating finger protection section 42 is formed of a rod-shaped member that is curved so as to protrude downward when viewed from the operation unit 4. Note that the operating finger protection section 42 may be formed integrally with the first housing 21 (as a part of the first housing 21), or may be formed as a member separate from the first housing 21.

[0024] The drive unit 5 includes an electric motor (electric drive source) 5a that generates a rotational drive force, a first transmission element 5b mechanically connected to the movable member of the cutting unit 3, and a second transmission element 5c for transmitting the rotational drive force of the electric motor 5a to the first transmission element 5b. For example, the electric motor 5a is a general-purpose rotary motor and is disposed on the other end side (rear side) of the longitudinal center of the housing 2. The second transmission element 5c is a transmission shaft mechanically connected to the motor shaft of the electric motor 5a. The first transmission element 5b is a bevel gear (first gear) mechanically connected to the front end of the second transmission element 5c. The first transmission element 5b is disposed so as to protrude outward from the bottom surface of the groove 28. In the drive unit 5, the rotational drive force generated by the electric motor 5a is transmitted to the first transmission element 5b via the second transmission element 5c. That is, when the electric motor 5a is operated, the first transmission element 5b rotates.

[0025] The power supply unit 6 has at least one of a built-in battery built into the housing 2, a detachable battery detachable from the housing 2, and a power cable connected to a commercial power source. In this embodiment, the power supply unit 6 has a battery 61 detachable from the housing 2.

[0026] The control unit 7 includes a CPU, memory, etc., and performs various controls by receiving signals from each part of the electric pole pruner 1 and transmitting control signals to each part of the electric pole pruner 1. For example, the control unit 7 executes processes such as controlling the opening and closing operation of the cutting unit 3 by operating the electric motor 5a.

[0027] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the cutting unit 3 is attached to the tip of the tubular handle 9 and has the function of clamping and cutting an object to be cut (such as a plant) between two blades, at least one of which is a movable blade. In this embodiment, the cutting unit 3 has a fixed blade 3A and a movable blade 3B that opens and closes opposite the fixed blade 3A. The fixed blade 3A is fixed so as not to move relative to the tubular handle 9, and the movable blade 3B is provided (movable) so as to be movable relative to the tubular handle 9.

[0028] The fixed blade 3A is made of a metal material and has a plate shape, and its front end functions as a fixed blade cutting part that sandwiches an object to be cut between it and the movable blade 3B. The fixed blade 3A is fixed to the tip of the cylindrical handle 9.

[0029] The movable blade 3B is made of a metal material and has a plate shape, and its front end functions as a movable blade cutting portion that sandwiches the object to be cut between it and the fixed blade 3A. The movable blade cutting portion is formed so that its thickness gradually decreases toward the side facing the fixed blade 3A.

[0030] The type of cutting portion 3 may be any type in which at least one blade is a movable blade 3B, and may be a type in which only one blade is movable, or a type in which both blades are movable.

[0031] In this embodiment, the electric pole pruner 1 has a tubular handle 9 provided between the cutting section 3 and the housing 2 (first housing 21 and second housing 22), so that the cutting section 3 (fixed blade 3A and movable blade 3B) is positioned away from the housing 2 (first housing 21 and second housing 22) to cut branches and leaves at high altitudes on trees.

[0032] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the transmission mechanism 8 is a mechanism interposed between the drive unit 5 and the cutting unit 3 to operate the cutting unit 3 (transmitting the rotational driving force generated by the drive unit 5 to the movable blade 3B), and has a first link mechanism 81, a link rod 82, and a second link mechanism 83.

[0033] The first link mechanism 81 is housed in the second housing 22 and is a link mechanism that receives a rotational driving force from the electric motor 5a and outputs the rotational driving force to the other end as a linear reciprocating motion (linear driving force). The first link mechanism 81 has a rotating member 81a that meshes with the first transmission element 5b (first gear) and a link arm 81b that is displaceable in the axial direction of the cylindrical handle 9 (first axial direction).

[0034] The rotating member 81a is made of a metal material, has a plate shape, and is rotatable about a rotation axis (second axis C2) extending in the left-right direction, and has a gear portion that meshes with the first transfer element 5b (first gear) on the surface facing the first transfer element 5b. The gear portion of the rotating member 81a rotates along the groove portion 28 of the mounting portion 23.

[0035] The link arm 81b is a rod-, tubular-, or plate-shaped member made of a metal material, arranged to extend along the first axis, and configured to receive a driving force from the rotating member 81a via an appropriate link member. In this embodiment, a link member 81d connects the base end of the link arm 81b to a link portion 81c located on the opposite side of the second axis C2 from the gear portion of the rotating member 81a. Therefore, the link arm 81b is driven linearly (linearly reciprocating) in the first axis direction as the rotating member 81a rotates. In particular, because the rotating member 81a and the link arm 81b are connected by the link member 81d rather than directly, the link arm 81b can smoothly reciprocate linearly, allowing the movable blade 3B at the tip to smoothly open and close.

[0036] Link rod 82 is a rod-, tubular-, or plate-shaped elongated member whose one end is mechanically connected (coupled) to the tip end of link arm 81b (the other end of first link mechanism 81) and whose other end is mechanically connected to second link mechanism 83. Link rod 82 is disposed so as to extend along the first axial direction, and linearly drives (linearly reciprocates) in the first axial direction in conjunction with link arm 81b.

[0037] In this embodiment, the link arm 81b and the link rod 82 are connected (threaded connection) by a screw (not shown) whose axial direction is the first axial direction. Specifically, a male thread is formed on the outer peripheral surface of one of the link arm 81b and the link rod 82, and a female thread is formed on the inner peripheral surface of the other, and these male and female threads are threadedly engaged with each other to connect them. However, although the threads at the connection portion between the link arm 81b and the link rod 82 are in a state of meshing, they are not fixed. Therefore, the link arm 81b and the link rod 82 can rotate relatively about the first axis C1. Meanwhile, when either the link arm 81b or the link rod 82 is displaced (moved) in the first axial direction, both are displaced in conjunction with each other. Furthermore, the threaded connection between the link arm 81b and the link rod 82 is configured so that the threads and thread grooves of each other are threadedly engaged with each other for at least one full 360-degree rotation, preferably at least one full 360-degree rotation after the start of threading. This prevents the link arm 81b and the link rod 82 from coming loose even when the link rod 82 rotates approximately 360 degrees relative to each other. The second link mechanism 83 and the link rod 82 are connected by a screw (not shown) with the first axis as the axial direction. The screw connection structure is the same as the connection structure with the link arm 81b. That is, the link rod 82 is connected to other members by screws at both its one end (link arm 81b) and its other end (second link mechanism 83). One of the screws provided at either one end or the other end of the link rod 82 may be fixed. The screw may be fixed by, for example, having the same thread direction at both the one end and the other end (both right-handed or both left-handed). Alternatively, or in addition, one of the screws at either the one end or the other end may be fixed with an adhesive, or a nut fixed to the screw may be provided on the link arm 81b or the second link mechanism 83.

[0038] The second link mechanism 83 is a mechanism for converting the linear driving force (linear reciprocating motion) of the link rod 82 into a rotational driving force (rotational motion) to rotate the movable blade 3B. For example, when the movable blade 3B is formed in an L-shape, the second link mechanism 83 can be configured such that the link rod 82 is connected to the end of the movable blade 3B on the opposite side from the movable blade cutting portion. In this way, the linear reciprocating motion of the link rod 82 can be converted into the rotational motion of the movable blade 3B.

[0039] With the above-described configuration, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, when the electric motor 5a is operated, the first transmission element 5b (first gear) rotates, causing the rotating member 81a meshing with the first transmission element 5b to rotate. As the rotating member 81a rotates, the link arm 81b and the link rod 82 connected thereto are displaced in the first axial direction, applying a driving force to the movable blade 3B via the second link mechanism 83 connected to the link rod 82, thereby opening and closing the movable blade 3B relative to the fixed blade 3A. Therefore, the movable blade cutting portion of the movable blade 3B and the fixed blade cutting portion of the fixed blade 3A function as scissors, allowing the cutting object, such as branches and leaves, to be cut. The above is the basic configuration of the electric pole pruner 1. The structures of the tubular handle 9 and the holder 30 will be described below.

[0040] Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of the holding part 30 (stopper member 31). Fig. 6A is a cross-sectional view showing the relationship between the tubular handle 9 and the rotation restricting part 34 in a first state. Fig. 6B is a cross-sectional view showing the relationship between the tubular handle 9 and the rotation restricting part 34 in a second state. Fig. 6C is a cross-sectional view showing the relationship between the tubular handle 9 and the rotation restricting part 34 in a third state. Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line AA in Fig. 4, and each of Figs. 6A to 6C is a cross-sectional view taken along the line BB in Fig. 4.

[0041] 3 to 5, tubular handle 9 has a tubular body 90, a spacer 91, and a retaining projection 92. Tube body 90 is a long, tubular member made of a metal material, and is provided between first link mechanism 81 and second link mechanism 83. It is a member that covers at least the outer periphery of link rod 82.

[0042] The spacer 91 is a substantially ring-shaped member that makes sliding contact with the rear end surface of the cylindrical main body 90. For example, the spacer 91 is attached to the rear end of the cylindrical main body 90 so that the end surface of the spacer 91 makes sliding contact with the rear end surface of the cylindrical main body 90. The spacer 91 is made of a material that has at least higher mechanical strength (hardness, wear resistance, durability, etc.) than the cylindrical main body 90.

[0043] Housing 2 (second housing 22) is provided with a holder 30 for holding tubular handle 9 in a predetermined position. Holder 30 is fixed to the tip of housing 2 (second housing 22) and has a stopper member 31 that covers the outer periphery of tubular handle 9, and a plate-like fixing plate 32 that is located rearward of stopper member 31 and fixed to housing 2 (second housing 22). Stopper member 31 and fixing plate 32 are each made of a metal material and are fixed to housing 2 (second housing 22) by appropriate fastening members.

[0044] The stopper member 31 is a cylindrical member formed to cover the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical handle 9 (cylindrical main body 90). In this embodiment, the stopper member 31 is made up of two semi-cylindrical members divided into left and right halves. The stopper member 31 has flanges extending radially outward from both upper and lower ends, and is fixed to the housing 2 (second housing 22) by fastening members 33 that fasten each flange to the housing 2 (second housing 22).

[0045] The inner diameter of the stopper member 31 is set slightly larger than the outer diameter of the cylindrical handle 9 (tube body 90). Therefore, the inner peripheral surface of the stopper member 31 and the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical handle 9 (tube body 90) are configured to be in close contact with each other. As a result, the stopper member 31 restricts the movement of the cylindrical handle 9 in the radial direction. However, the inner peripheral surface of the stopper member 31 does not press against the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical handle 9 (tube body 90), and the stopper member 31 supports the cylindrical handle 9 to such an extent that it can rotate about the first axis C1.

[0046] The cylindrical handle 9 is located rearward of the stopper member 31 and has a retaining projection 92 that protrudes outward from the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical handle 9 (tubular body 90). For example, the retaining projection 92 is formed by the head of a bolt fixed to the cylindrical body 90.

[0047] The retaining projection 92 protrudes outward beyond the stopper member 31 and is positioned so that it abuts against the stopper member 31 or is slightly spaced apart from the stopper member 31 in the front-to-rear direction. Therefore, the rear end of the stopper member 31 and the front end of the retaining projection 92 are configured to abut against or be slightly spaced apart from each other. Therefore, the retaining projection 92 is restricted by the stopper member 31 so as not to move forward. That is, the relationship between the stopper member 31 and the retaining projection 92 restricts forward movement of the tubular handle 9 (movement in the direction in which the tubular handle 9 would be removed from the housing 2). In this way, the stopper member 31 and the retaining projection 92 function as a retaining portion that restricts the distal movement of the tubular handle 9 relative to the housing 2 (second housing 22).

[0048] The fixed plate 32 holds each member of the first link mechanism 81 either fixedly or displaceably. The front edge of the fixed plate 32 abuts against a portion of the annular ring at the rear end (spacer 91) of the tubular handle 9, restricting rearward movement of the tubular handle 9. In other words, the spacer 91 is interposed between the fixed plate 32 and the cylindrical body 90, and serves to prevent excessive wear and dents on the fixed plate 32 and the cylindrical body 90 (particularly the rear edge of the cylindrical body 90). Therefore, the provision of the spacer 91 improves the durability of the fixed plate 32 and the cylindrical body 90.

[0049] Rearward movement of the cylindrical handle 9 is restricted by the relationship between the fixing plate 32 and the rear end of the cylindrical handle 9 (spacer 91), and forward movement is restricted by the relationship between the stopper member 31 and the retaining projection 92. Furthermore, the cylindrical handle 9 is supported rotatably about the first axis C1 by the stopper member 31. In other words, the cylindrical handle 9 is rotatable about the first axis C1 and is held so as not to come off the housing 2 (second housing 22) (so as not to displace its position in the first axis direction).

[0050] 6A to 6C, a rotation restricting portion 34 is provided in a position in the first axial direction corresponding to the retaining projection 92 (on the same plane perpendicular to the first axis C1) to restrict rotation of the cylindrical handle 9 relative to the housing 2 (second housing 22) to an angle of at least less than 360°. In this embodiment, the rotation restricting portion 34 is formed by a protrusion that protrudes inward (toward the cylindrical handle 9) from the inner wall of the housing 2 (second housing 22).

[0051] In this embodiment, the upper surface of the rotation restricting portion 34 is the first restricting surface 34a, and the lower surface of the rotation restricting portion 34 is the second restricting surface 34b. The first restricting surface 34a and the second restricting surface 34b are each located on the movement trajectory (rotation trajectory) of the retaining protrusion 92 when the tubular handle 9 rotates. Therefore, when the tubular handle 9 continues to rotate in a certain direction (first direction), the retaining protrusion 92 abuts against one of the first restricting surface 34a and the second restricting surface 34b, thereby restricting the rotation. When the tubular handle 9 continues to rotate in the opposite direction (second direction), the retaining protrusion 92 abuts against the other of the first restricting surface 34a and the second restricting surface 34b, thereby restricting the rotation.

[0052] In this embodiment, if the first direction is clockwise as viewed from the front (the same as the plane of the paper), continuing to rotate the tubular handle 9 in the first direction will cause the retaining projection 92 to abut against the first restriction surface 34a (the state shown in FIG. 6A). On the other hand, continuing to rotate the tubular handle 9 in the second direction (counterclockwise as viewed from the front) will cause the retaining projection 92 to abut against the second restriction surface 34b (the state shown in FIG. 6C). In other words, when the retaining projection 92 is spaced apart from both the first restriction surface 34a and the second restriction surface 34b (the state shown in FIG. 6B), the tubular handle 9 can be freely rotated.

[0053] The rotation restrictor 34 can limit the upper rotation angle of the tubular handle 9 to 320° or less, preferably 300° or less, and more preferably 270° or less. The rotation restrictor 34 can limit the lower rotation angle of the tubular handle 9 to 180° or more, preferably 240° or more, and more preferably 270° or more.

[0054] According to the present invention, the blade angle can be easily adjusted because the holder 30 is provided, which holds the tubular handle 9 rotatably about the first axis C1 relative to the housing 2 (second housing 22). Therefore, the electric pole pruners 1 can be used by rotating only the portion distal to the tubular handle 9 to match the angle of the blade to the angle of the branches and leaves, greatly improving workability.

[0055] Furthermore, according to the present invention, the provision of rotation restricting portion 34 restricts rotation about first axis C1 relative to housing 2 (second housing 22) to a predetermined rotation angle, thereby preventing excessive rotation of tubular handle 9. As described above, link arm 81b and link rod 82 are connected by a screw, and link rod 82 rotates in conjunction with tubular handle 9. Therefore, when tubular handle 9 is continuously rotated in a certain direction, the relative position between link rod 82 and link arm 81b in the first axial direction is displaced, and accordingly, the relative position between link rod 82 and second link mechanism 83 (movable blade 3B) also changes in conjunction with this. If link rod 82 moves too far away from second link mechanism 83 (movable blade 3B) or if link rod 82 moves too close to second link mechanism 83 (movable blade 3B), too much force will be applied to movable blade 3B in either the opening or closing direction, which could disrupt the positional relationship between the movable blade cutting portion of movable blade 3B and the fixed blade cutting portion of fixed blade 3A and cause the scissors to no longer function. To address this problem, in the present invention, tubular handle 9 only moves back and forth within a predetermined rotation angle range restricted by rotation restricting portion 34, so the positional relationship between link rod 82 and second link mechanism 83 (movable blade 3B) can be kept within a predetermined range, ensuring scissors function.

[0056] Furthermore, according to the present invention, the spacer 91 is interposed between the fixed plate 32 and the tube body 90 and is made of a material having higher mechanical strength (height, durability, etc.) than the tube body 90, thereby improving the durability of the fixed plate 32 and the tube body 90.

[0057] Furthermore, according to the present invention, a retaining portion that restricts the movement of tubular handle 9 toward the tip side relative to housing 2 (second housing 22) is further provided, thereby preventing tubular handle 9 from coming off housing 2 (second housing 22). The retaining portion includes stopper member 31 that is fixed to housing 2 (second housing 22) and covers the outer surface of tubular handle 9, and retaining projection 92 that is located rearward of stopper member 31 and protrudes outward from the outer surface of tubular handle 9 beyond stopper member 31, thereby enabling the retaining portion for tubular handle 9 to be configured with a simple structure.

[0058] Furthermore, according to the present invention, the link arm 81b and the link rod 82 are connected by a screw whose axial direction is the first axis line, so that rotation around the first axis line C1 is not hindered and driving force can be transmitted.

[0059] The electric shears of this invention correspond to the electric pole shears 1 of the above embodiment, and similarly, the housing corresponds to housing 2, the movable blade corresponds to movable blade 3B, the cutting unit corresponds to cutting unit 3, the drive unit corresponds to drive unit 5, the power supply unit corresponds to power supply unit 6, the transmission mechanism corresponds to transmission mechanism 8, the holding unit corresponds to holding unit 30, the rotation control unit corresponds to rotation control unit 34, the spacer corresponds to spacer 91, the fixing plate corresponds to fixing plate 32, the anti-slip unit corresponds to stopper member 31 and anti-slip protrusion 92, the stopper member corresponds to stopper member 31, the anti-slip protrusion corresponds to anti-slip protrusion 92, the link arm corresponds to link arm 81b, and the link rod corresponds to link rod 82, but this invention is not limited to this embodiment and can be made into various other embodiments.

[0060] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the mounting member 93 in a modified embodiment (second embodiment). FIG. 8A is an end view showing the structure of the mounting member 93 in the second embodiment. FIG. 8B is an end view showing the structure of the mounting member 93 in the second embodiment. Note that FIG. 8A is an end view taken along the arrow CC in FIG. 7, and FIG. 8B is an end view taken along the arrow DD in FIG. 7. The structure of the electric pole pruner 1 in the second embodiment will be described below, but the same reference numerals will be used to designate the same components as those in the electric pole pruner 1 described in the first example, and explanations of overlapping content will be omitted or will be given briefly.

[0061] For example, as shown in Figures 7, 8A, and 8B, the electric pole pruner 1 of the second embodiment may further include an attachment member 93 attached to the outer peripheral surface of the tubular handle 9 (tubular body 90). The attachment member 93 is a member that covers the outer peripheral surface of the tubular handle 9. However, the inner peripheral surface of the attachment member 93 does not press against the outer peripheral surface of the tubular handle 9 (tubular body 90), and the attachment member 93 is configured to support the tubular handle 9 to an extent that it can rotate about the first axis C1. The thickness of the attachment member 93 is set appropriately depending on the gap between the tubular handle 9 (tubular body 90) and the housing 2 (second housing 22). In other words, when using a tubular handle portion 9 (tubular body 90) whose outer diameter is smaller than the outer diameter (standard outer diameter) when the tubular handle portion 9 (tubular body 90) is positioned without any gaps relative to the housing 2 (second housing 22), the attachment member 93 can be provided to fill the gap between the tubular handle portion 9 (tubular body 90) and the housing 2 (second housing 22), and the tubular handle portion 9 (tubular body 90) can be positioned in an appropriate position.

[0062] Alternatively, a fitting mechanism may be provided that combines fitting portions 93a that fit into recesses or protrusions provided on the housing 2 (second housing 22). This allows the attachment member 93 to be easily positioned and attached to the housing 2 (second housing 22). Furthermore, displacement of the attachment member 93 can be prevented when the tubular handle 9 (tube main body 90) rotates or when force is applied to the tubular handle 9 (tube main body 90) when the cutting unit 3 is operated.

[0063] In this way, even in the second embodiment, it is possible to use a tubular handle portion 9 (tubular main body 90) with a different outer diameter without changing the configuration of the housing 2 (second housing 22) or any part other than the tubular handle portion 9 (tubular main body 90), which is convenient.

[0064] FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the holding unit 30 in a modified embodiment (third embodiment). FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the holding unit 30 in the third embodiment. FIG. 11A is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the holding unit 30 in the third embodiment. FIG. 11B is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the holding unit 30 in the third embodiment. Note that FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line CC in FIG. 9, and each of FIGS. 11A and 11B is a cross-sectional view taken along the line DD in FIG. 9. The structure of the electric pole pruner 1 in the third embodiment will be described below, with the same reference numerals used for the same components as those in the electric pole pruner 1 described in the first embodiment, and redundant description will be omitted or will be briefly given.

[0065] For example, as shown in FIG. 9, in the electric pole pruner 1 of the third embodiment, the holding portion 30 has a stopper member 31, a fixing plate 32, a rotation restricting portion , and a rear end support portion .

[0066] 9 and 10, rear end support portion 35 is a cylindrical member formed to cover the outer peripheral surface of the rear end of cylindrical handle portion 9 (tube main body 90). Rear end support portion 35 is composed of two semi-cylindrical members divided into left and right halves. Rear end support portion 35 has flanges extending radially outward from both upper and lower ends, and rear end support portion 35 is fixed to fixing plate 32 and housing 2 (second housing 22) with fastening members 36 that fasten each flange to fixing plate 32.

[0067] The inner diameter of the rear support portion 35 is slightly larger than the outer diameter of the tubular handle 9 (tube body 90). Therefore, the inner circumferential surface of the rear support portion 35 and the outer circumferential surface of the tubular handle 9 (tube body 90) are configured to be in close contact with each other. Therefore, the rear support portion 35 restricts the movement of the tubular handle 9 in the radial direction. However, the inner circumferential surface of the rear support portion 35 does not press against the outer circumferential surface of the tubular handle 9 (tube body 90). The rear support portion 35 supports the tubular handle 9 to a degree that allows it to rotate around the first axis C1. The rear support portion 35 rotatably supports the tubular handle 9 (tube body 90). The rear support portion 35 is positioned a predetermined distance away from the stopper member 31, which rotatably supports the tubular handle 9 (tube body 90), in the direction of extension of the first axis C1. That is, the cylindrical handle 9 (tube body 90) can maintain a stable posture because it is pivotally supported at two locations, the rear end support 35 and the stopper member 31, which are spaced a predetermined distance apart. In particular, the configuration of the third embodiment can prevent the cylindrical handle 9 (tube body 90) from tilting (axial wobble) relative to the first axis C1 where it should be.

[0068] As shown in Figures 11A and 11B, the electric pole pruner 1 of the third embodiment also has a rotation restriction portion 34 at a position corresponding to the anti-slip protrusion 92 (on the same plane perpendicular to the first axis C1) that restricts the rotation of the tubular handle portion 9 relative to the housing 2 (second housing 22) at a predetermined rotation angle.

[0069] However, while in the first embodiment the rotation restricting section 34 was formed by the inner wall of the housing 2 (second housing 22), in the electric pole pruner 1 of the third embodiment the rotation restricting section 34 is formed by a metal member. Specifically, the rotation restricting section 34 of the third embodiment is formed by a metal plate-like member (metal plate) 37 fixed to at least one of the fixed plate 32, the stopper member 31 and the inner wall of the housing 2. The metal plate 37 is formed in a curved shape that bulges outward in the radially outward direction of the cylindrical handle 9.

[0070] Furthermore, at least the upper and lower ends of metal plate 37 are positioned on the movement path (rotation path) of retaining projection 92 when tubular handle 9 rotates. As a result, the upper end surface of metal plate 37 (rotation restricting portion 34) becomes first restricting surface 34a, and the lower end surface of metal plate 37 (rotation restricting portion 34) becomes second restricting surface 34b. Therefore, when tubular handle 9 continues to rotate in a certain direction (first direction), retaining projection 92 abuts against one of first restricting surface 34a and second restricting surface 34b, thereby restricting rotation. When tubular handle 9 continues to rotate in the opposite direction (second direction), retaining projection 92 abuts against the other of first restricting surface 34a and second restricting surface 34b, thereby restricting rotation. In this case, in the third embodiment, the rotation restricting portion 34 against which the retaining projection 92 abuts is configured by the metal plate 37, and therefore the rigidity and durability of the rotation restricting portion 34 are high, making it possible to suppress or prevent wear and damage to the rotation restricting portion 34 due to continued use of the electric pole pruner 1. In particular, when the metal plate 37 is fixed to either the fixed plate 32 or the stopper member 31 (and not directly fixed to the housing 2), the impact when the retaining projection 92 hits the rotation restricting portion 34 is not transmitted directly to the housing 2, and therefore wear and damage to the housing 2 can be suppressed or prevented.

[0071] As described above, the present invention can be realized as an electric pole pruner 1 characterized in that the rotation restricting portion 34 is composed of the metal plate 37. The present invention can also be realized as an electric pole pruner 1 characterized in that it includes a rear end support portion 35 that is fixed to the fixed plate 32 and the housing 2 (second housing 22) and covers the outer peripheral surface of the rear end of the tubular handle portion 9 (tubular main body 90). [Industrial Applicability]

[0072] The present invention can be applied to the industry of electric pole pruners used for cutting high branches of trees. [Explanation of symbols]

[0073] 1…Electric Takaeda scissors 2. Housing 21...1st cabinet 22...Second cabinet 23...Mounting part 3…Cut section 3A…Fixed blade 3B…Movable blade 5...Drive unit 5a...Electric motor 6...Power supply section 7...Control unit 8...Transmission mechanism 9...Cylindrical handle 90...Cylinder body 91...Spacer 30...Holding part 31...Stopper member 32...Fixed plate 34...Rotation restriction part 35...Rear end support part

Claims

1. An electric pole pruner for cutting high-altitude plants, a cylindrical handle portion extending in a predetermined axial direction; a cutting part attached to the tip of the cylindrical handle and having two blades, at least one of which is a movable blade; a drive unit for applying a drive force to the movable blade; a housing attached to a rear end of the cylindrical handle and accommodating the drive unit; a transmission mechanism interposed between the drive unit and the cutting unit for transmitting the drive force to the movable blade; a holder that holds the cylindrical handle rotatably about an axis of the cylindrical handle relative to the housing; a rotation restricting portion that restricts rotation of the cylindrical handle portion about the axis relative to the housing to a predetermined rotation angle, the transmission mechanism includes a link arm accommodated in the housing and displaceable in the axial direction, and a link rod attached to a tip end of the link arm and coaxially linked with the link arm; The link rod is configured to rotate in accordance with the rotation of the cylindrical handle portion, The link arm and the link rod are connected by a screw having the axial direction as an axial direction. Electric high branch scissors.

2. the holding portion has a plate-shaped fixing plate fixed to the housing, the cylindrical handle portion has a cylindrical body and a spacer that covers a rear end surface of the cylindrical body and abuts against the fixing plate, The spacer has a higher mechanical strength than the cylindrical body. The electric pole pruner according to claim 1.

3. The device further includes a retaining portion that restricts movement of the cylindrical handle toward the tip side relative to the housing. The electric pole pruner according to claim 2.

4. The retaining portion includes a stopper member fixed to the housing and covering the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical handle, and a retaining projection located rearward of the stopper member and projecting outward from the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical handle beyond the stopper member. The electric pole pruner according to claim 3.

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