Throttle operation device

Abstract

To provide a throttle operation device which enables other operations to be conducted smoothly in addition to throttle control by rotational operation of a throttle lever.SOLUTION: A throttle operation device includes: a fixed member 1 fixed to a position near a holding grip formed at a handle bar tip of a vehicle; a throttle lever 2 which is attached extending from the fixed member 1 and can be rotationally operated while the holding grip is held; and a detection sensor 11 which can detect a rotational operation angle of the throttle lever 2. The throttle operation device can control an engine of the vehicle based on a rotational operation angle of the throttle lever 2 detected by the detection sensor 11. The throttle lever 2 can be rotationally operated in a normal direction α and an opposite direction β, can control the engine of the vehicle by the rotational operation in the normal operation α, and can actuate a predetermined device mounted on the vehicle or stop the operation of the device by the rotational operation in the opposite direction β.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a throttle operating device capable of controlling a drive source of a vehicle based on the rotational operating angle of a throttle lever detected by a detection sensor. [Background technology]

[0002] A conventional throttle operating device for operating the throttle opening in vehicles such as ATVs and four-wheel buggies, watercraft such as PWCs (personal watercraft), and snowmobiles includes a throttle lever (thumb throttle lever) attached near the grip, as disclosed in Patent Document 1. Such a conventional throttle operating device is configured so that when a driver grips the grip and extends their fingers to the throttle lever to rotate it, a detection sensor detects the angle of rotation and controls the engine of the vehicle. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2010-53836 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, in the above-mentioned prior art, the rotational operation of the throttle lever was limited to one direction, and was limited to throttle control that exclusively controlled the drive source. Therefore, the applicant considered allowing operation in the opposite direction, and making other operations possible with the throttle lever.

[0005] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and has as its object to provide a throttle operating device that allows smooth operation of not only the throttle but also other operations by rotating the throttle lever. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The invention described in claim 1 comprises a fixed member fixed near a grip formed at the tip of a handlebar of a vehicle, a throttle lever extended from the fixed member and attached thereto so as to be rotatable while gripping the grip, a shaft member connected to the throttle lever and rotating about its axis in response to a rotational operation of the throttle lever; a detection sensor disposed on the fixed member and capable of detecting a rotational operation angle of the throttle lever; a return spring attached to the shaft member and biasing the throttle lever to an initial position when the throttle lever is rotated; and an operating portion located between one end and the other end of the return spring and rotatable in response to the rotation of the throttle lever. In a throttle operation device capable of controlling a drive source of a vehicle based on a rotational operation angle of the throttle lever detected by the detection sensor, the throttle lever is With the shaft member as the center The device can be rotated in both forward and reverse directions, and the drive source of the vehicle can be controlled by rotating it in the forward direction, and a predetermined device mounted on the vehicle can be operated or the operation of the device can be stopped by rotating it in the reverse direction. and when the throttle lever rotates in the forward direction, the one end of the return spring is pressed by the operating portion while the other end is fixed, thereby obtaining a biasing force, and when the throttle lever rotates in the reverse direction, the one end of the return spring is pressed by the operating portion while the other end is fixed, thereby obtaining a biasing force, and further includes a first cover part that covers the one end side of the return spring, and a second cover part that covers the other end side of the return spring, and the operating portion is configured to be able to rotate by pressing the first cover part or the second cover part depending on the rotation direction of the throttle lever. It is characterized by:

[0007] The invention of claim 2 is the throttle grip device of claim 1, The operating portion has a first pressing surface that presses the first cover part and a second pressing surface that presses the second cover part, and at least one of the first pressing surface and the second pressing surface is formed by an edge surface of a notch formed in the operating portion. It is characterized by:

[0008] The invention of claim 3 is the throttle operation device of claim 1 or claim 2, The sensor is provided with a magnet attached to the shaft member, and the detection sensor is attached at a position corresponding to the magnet. The detection sensor is capable of detecting the rotational angle of the throttle lever based on magnetic changes in the magnet that rotates in response to the throttle lever, and is also capable of detecting both forward and reverse rotation of the throttle lever. It is characterized by:

[0009] The invention described in claim 4 is Any one of claims 1 to 3 In the throttle operating device described above, The return spring is a torsion coil spring having a coil portion, the first cover part is made of a resin member having a main body portion covering the coil portion on one end side of the return spring and a protrusion portion covering the one end of the return spring, and the second cover part is made of a resin member having a main body portion covering the coil portion on the other end side of the return spring and a protrusion portion covering the other end of the return spring. [Effects of the Invention]

[0023] According to the invention of claim 1, the throttle lever can be rotated in both the forward and reverse directions, and the drive source of the vehicle can be controlled by rotating it in the forward direction, and a specified device mounted on the vehicle can be activated or the operation of that device can be stopped by rotating the throttle lever, so that in addition to throttle control, other devices on the vehicle can also be smoothly operated by rotating the throttle lever. In addition, the operating part has a first cover part that covers one end of the return spring and a second cover part that covers the other end of the return spring, and is capable of rotating by pressing the first cover part or the second cover part depending on the rotation direction of the throttle lever, so that a stable biasing force from the return spring can be obtained when the throttle lever is rotated in the forward direction and when it is rotated in the reverse direction.

[0024] According to the invention described in claim 2, The operating part has a first pressing surface that presses the first cover part and a second pressing surface that presses the second cover part, and at least one of the first pressing surface and the second pressing surface is made up of the edge surface of a notch formed in the operating part. Therefore, by appropriately determining the width dimension of the notch, the distance between the first pressing surface and the second pressing surface can be adjusted, and the first pressing surface and the second pressing surface can be made to correspond to the initial positions of one end and the other end of the return spring. Claim 3 According to the invention, the detection sensor can detect the rotational angle of the throttle lever based on the magnetic change of the magnet that rotates in response to the throttle lever, and since it is attached at a position corresponding to the magnet, it can accurately detect the forward rotational operation and the reverse rotational operation of the throttle lever. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0040] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an overall perspective view showing a throttle operating device according to a first embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2] Three-view diagram showing the throttle operating device [Figure 3] Cross section of line III-III in Figure 2 [Figure 4] 3-view diagram showing a fixing member of the throttle operating device [Figure 5] 4-view diagram showing a cover member of the throttle operating device [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing the throttle lever of the throttle operating device and an integral component that rotates together with the throttle lever. [Figure 7] 3 is a three-view diagram showing the throttle lever of the throttle operating device and an integral component that rotates together with the throttle lever. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view showing an assembled state of the integral components of the throttle operating device. [Figure 9] 5A and 5B are views showing a rotating member of the throttle operating device; [Figure 10] Three-view diagram showing the mounting member of the throttle operating device [Figure 11] Three-view diagram showing the magnet of the throttle operating device [Figure 12] 4-view diagram showing the resistance force applying means of the throttle operating device [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing the sliding of the resistance force applying means of the throttle operating device against the sliding member. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a plan view showing the throttle operating device with the cover member removed and the return spring attached; [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a plan view showing a state in which a cover member of a throttle operating device according to another embodiment of the present invention is removed and a return spring is attached; [Figure 16] 3A and 3B are three-view diagrams showing a throttle operating device according to a second embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 17] Cross section of Figure 16 along line XVII-XVII [Figure 18] FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a fixing member of the throttle operating device. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a plan view showing a state in which an integral component is attached to the fixing member. [Figure 20] Three-view drawing showing the same integrated component [Figure 21] FIG. [Figure 22] FIG. [Figure 23] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view showing the assembled state of the tip end of the integral component of the throttle operating device. [Figure 24] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view showing the assembled state of the tip end of the integral component of the throttle operating device. [Figure 25] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing an assembled state of the tip end of the integral component of the throttle operating device. [Figure 26] 3A and 3B are views showing the operation load generating means of the throttle operation device; [Figure 27] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a resistance force applying means of the throttle operating device. [Figure 28] 10A and 10B are a plan view and a front view showing the mounting member with the resistance force applying means attached thereto; [Figure 29] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a throttle operating device according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 30] Three-view diagram showing the throttle operating device [Figure 31] FIG. 10 is a plan view showing the throttle operating device with the second fixing member removed. [Figure 32] Cross section of line XXXII-XXXII in Figure 31 [Figure 33] Cross section of line XXXIII-XXXIII in Figure 31 [Figure 34] Cross section of line XXXIV-XXXIV in Figure 31 [Figure 35] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a connection state between the throttle lever and the first and second cover parts in the throttle operating device; [Figure 36] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing an operating portion formed on a throttle lever (second throttle lever portion) in the throttle operating device. [Figure 37] FIG. 10 is a side view showing an assembled state of the first cover part and the second cover part in the throttle operating device. [Figure 38] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view showing a first cover part and a second cover part of the throttle operating device; [Figure 39] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a first cover part, a second cover part, and a return spring in the throttle operating device; [Figure 40] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a throttle operating device according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 41] FIG. 10 is a plan view showing the throttle operating device with the second fixing member removed. [Figure 42] Cross section of line XLII-XLII in Figure 41 [Figure 43] Cross section of line XLIII-XLIII in Figure 41 [Figure 44] FIG. 10 is a side view showing the parts attached to the shaft member and the neutral position holding means in the throttle operating device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0041] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. The throttle operating device of the first embodiment is fixed to the handlebars of a vehicle such as an ATV or buggy, a watercraft such as a PWC (personal watercraft), or a vehicle such as a snowmobile (in this embodiment, a vehicle such as an ATV or buggy) so as to be able to control the engine (drive source) of the vehicle, and as shown in Figures 1 to 3, is configured with a fixed member 1, a throttle lever 2, which is also known as a thumb lever, a cover member 3, a rotating member 5, a resistance force applying means 7, a detection sensor 11, a return spring S, and a sliding member K.

[0042] The fixed member 1 is fixed to the handlebar H to rotatably support the throttle lever 2, and is adapted to be fixed near a grip formed at the tip of the vehicle's handlebar H. As shown in Fig. 4, the fixed member 1 is open at the top and has an accommodating recess formed therein, and has a clamping member 4 attached thereto, which can clamp and fix the handlebar H.

[0043] The fixed member 1 has a pair of regulating portions 1a-1a formed at a predetermined position on the outside thereof and spaced apart by a predetermined distance, and the bottom surface of the accommodating recess formed inside has a mounting groove 1b into which a sealing member 9 (see Figure 3) is fitted to position it, a through hole 1c through which the shaft member L is inserted to allow rotational operation of the throttle lever 1, a first fixed portion 1d which engages and fixes one end Sa (see Figure 8) of the return spring S, and a second fixed portion 1e which engages and fixes the other end Sb (see Figure 8) of the return spring S.

[0044] The throttle lever 2 is attached by extending from the lower part of the fixed member 1 and can be rotated by the driver while gripping the vehicle's grip, and is connected to a shaft member L as shown in FIG. 3. The shaft member L rotates about its axis in response to the rotation of the throttle lever 2, and a rotating member 5 is fixed to its tip by a mounting screw Nb and a washer W. As shown in FIG. 7, the throttle lever 2 is formed with a protruding portion 2a that protrudes laterally, and is configured so that the protruding portion 2a is located between a pair of restricting portions 1a-1a when assembled to the fixed member 1. This restricts the rotation angle of the throttle lever L and the shaft member L within a predetermined range.

[0045] 6 and 7, the rotating member 5 is rotatable in response to the rotation of the throttle lever 2, and as shown in Fig. 9, is formed with an attachment portion 5a to which the resistance force applying means 7 and the coil spring 9 (see Fig. 8) can be attached, a through-hole 5b into which the tip of the shaft member L can be inserted, a first locking portion 5c that can lock one end Sa (see Fig. 8) of the return spring S, and a second locking portion 5d that can lock the other end Sb (see Fig. 8) of the return spring S. When the throttle lever 1 is rotated to rotate the shaft member L and the rotating member 5, the return spring S urges them toward their initial positions.

[0046] 6 to 8, a mounting member 6 is attached to the rotating member 5 by a pair of mounting screws n. The mounting member 6 holds the magnet M, and as shown in Fig. 10, is configured to have an accommodating recess 6a into which the magnet M can be fitted, a central protrusion 6b formed to protrude from the center of the bottom surface of the accommodating recess 6a, a pair of locking claws 6c formed opposite each other at the opening edge of the accommodating recess 6a, and a fitting hole 6d formed in the bottom surface of the accommodating recess 6a.

[0047] The magnet M is fitted into the receiving recess 6a of the mounting member 6 and is rotatable together with the shaft member L in response to the rotation of the throttle lever 2. 8、As shown in Fig. 11, the magnet M is configured with a through hole Ma through which the central protrusion 6b can be inserted, a notch Mb formed on the edge of the upper surface, and a pair of protrusions Mc formed on the lower surface. The central protrusion 6b is inserted into the through hole Ma, and the protrusions Mc are fitted into the fitting holes 6d, thereby accommodating the magnet M in the accommodating recess 6a, and the locking claws 6c are pressed against the notches Mb, thereby preventing the magnet M from falling out.

[0048] In this way, the throttle lever 2, shaft member L, rotating member 5, mounting member 6, magnet M, and return spring S are assembled to form an integrated component Y, as shown in Figure 6. Therefore, by rotating the throttle lever 2, the integrated component Y rotates relative to the fixed member 1, and since the integrated component Y is urged toward its initial position by the return spring S, by releasing the operating force on the throttle lever 2, the throttle lever 2 returns to its initial position.

[0049] 1 to 3, the cover member 3 is fixed with a mounting screw Na while covering the opening at the top of the fixing member 1, and as shown in Fig. 5, is made of a molded part having an accommodation recess 3a that opens to the side and a bottom surface 3b that faces the magnet M when attached to the fixing member 1. The accommodation recess 3b accommodates a substrate 10 on which a detection sensor 11 is attached, and is filled with a predetermined resin to waterproof the detection sensor 11 and the substrate 10.

[0050] Furthermore, the cover member 3 according to this embodiment has a sliding member K fixed to its lower surface 3b by insert molding. The sliding member K is made of an annular metal member and is configured so that the resistance force applying means 7, which will be described later, can slide on it. The inner region of the sliding member K on the lower surface 3b of the cover member 3 forms a contact surface 3ba with which the magnet M can come into contact and rotate, allowing the magnet M to rotate stably.

[0051] Furthermore, the cover member 3 can press the seal member 9 to seal when attached to the fixed member 1. That is, when the cover member 3 is attached to the fixed member 1, as shown in Fig. 3, a pressing surface 3bb formed in the peripheral region of the lower surface 3b of the cover member 3 presses the seal member 9, thereby sealing the inside of the fixed member 1 (the internal space where the rotating member 5 and the like are located).

[0052] The detection sensor 11 can detect the rotational angle of the throttle lever 2, and in this embodiment is composed of an angle sensor that detects the magnetic change of the magnet M to detect the rotational angle. In other words, when the magnet M rotates in conjunction with the rotational operation of the throttle lever 2, the detection sensor 11 detects the magnetic change of the magnet M caused by that rotation, and can thereby detect the rotational angle of the throttle lever 2.

[0053] When the detection sensor 11 detects the rotational angle of the throttle lever 2, the detection signal is transmitted to the ECU (engine control unit) equipped in the vehicle or a specified device mounted on the vehicle via a wiring h connected to the board 10, and the vehicle's engine (power source) is controlled or a specified device of the vehicle is operated (for example, the vehicle is moved in reverse, or the auto-cruise system is activated or stopped) based on the rotational angle of the throttle lever 2.

[0054] That is, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the throttle operating device of this embodiment is configured so that the throttle lever 2 can be rotated in a forward direction α and a reverse direction β relative to the fixed member 1, and the detection sensor 11 is attached to a position corresponding to the magnet M on the cover member 3, so that the rotation operation of the throttle lever 2 in the forward direction α and the rotation operation in the reverse direction β can be detected, respectively.The rotation operation in the forward direction α can control the vehicle's engine (drive source), and the rotation operation in the reverse direction β can operate or stop the operation of a specified device mounted on the vehicle.

[0055] Specifically, one end Sa of the return spring S is engageable with the first locking portion 5c of the rotating member 5 (see Figure 6(b)) and the first fixed portion 1d of the fixed member 1 (see Figure 14), and the other end Sb is engageable with the second locking portion 5d of the rotating member 5 (see Figure 6(a)) and the second fixed portion 1e of the fixed member 1 (see Figure 14) and assembled.

[0056] Then, when the throttle lever 2 is rotated in the forward direction α and the rotating member 5 rotates in the same direction, one end Sa of the return spring S is engaged with the first engaging portion 5c and rotates in accordance with the rotation of the rotating member 5 (i.e., the one end Sa is rotated along with the rotating member 5 and moves away from the first fixed portion 1d), while the other end Sb is engaged with and fixed to the second fixed portion 1e of the fixed member 1, and a biasing force is applied in the direction of returning the throttle lever 2 to its initial position.

[0057] Furthermore, when the throttle lever 2 is rotated in the opposite direction β and the rotating member 5 rotates in the same direction, the other end Sb of the return spring S is engaged with the second engaging portion 5d and rotates in accordance with the rotation of the rotating member 5 (i.e., the other end Sb is rotated along with the rotating member 5 and moves away from the second fixed portion 1e), while the one end Sa is engaged with and fixed to the first fixed portion 1d of the fixed member 1, and a biasing force is applied in the direction of returning the throttle lever 2 to its initial position.

[0058] However, in this embodiment, as shown in Fig. 14, one end Sa of the return spring S is assembled in contact with the first fixed portion 1d, and the other end Sb of the return spring S is assembled in contact with the second fixed portion 1e, but as shown in Fig. 15, a clearance of dimension t may be provided between one end Sa of the return spring S and the first fixed portion 1d (or between the other end Sb of the return spring S and the second fixed portion 1e). By providing such a clearance, a rotation region (mechanical play region) in which the biasing force of the return spring S is not applied can be created when the throttle lever 2 starts to be rotated.

[0059] Furthermore, the throttle operating device according to this embodiment is equipped with resistance force applying means 7 that can apply resistance force by generating friction when the throttle lever 2 is rotated. As shown in Figures 6 to 8, the resistance force applying means 7 is made of a resin member that is attached to the mounting portion 5a of the rotating member 5 and is biased upward by a coil spring 8, and is designed to rotate together with the rotating member 5 when the rotating member 5 rotates in conjunction with the rotation of the throttle lever 2.

[0060] Specifically, as shown in Fig. 12, the resistance force applying means 7 is integrally formed with a tip surface 7a, a boss portion 7b, and a protrusion 7c. The tip surface 7a is a flat surface formed at the tip of the resistance force applying means 7, and is a surface that can slide on the sliding surface Ka of the sliding member K formed on the cover member 3. The boss portion 7b is a protrusion formed on the underside of the resistance force applying means 7, and is capable of holding the coil spring 8. The protrusion 7c is a pair of bulges formed on the side surface of the resistance force applying means 7, and fits into a holding groove 5aa (see Figs. 8 and 9) formed in the mounting portion 5a of the rotating member 5, thereby positioning the resistance force applying means 7 and guiding the displacement of the resistance force applying means 7.

[0061] The resistance force applying means 7 is biased by the coil spring 8 toward the sliding surface Ka of the sliding member K, so that its tip end surface 7a is in contact with the sliding surface Ka as shown in Fig. 3, and the rotation of the throttle lever 2 rotates the rotating member 5, causing the resistance force applying means 7 to rotate together with the rotating member 5. As shown in Fig. 13, when the throttle lever 2 is rotated in the forward direction α, the tip end surface 7a, which has been in contact with position A, slides to position B, and when the throttle lever 2 is rotated in the reverse direction β, the tip end 7a, which has been in contact with position A, slides to position C. In other words, the sliding surface Ka formed on the cover member 3 is made up of the surface of the sliding member K, which is formed along the movement path of the resistance force applying means 7, so that friction is generated and resistance force is applied during the process in which the tip end surface 7a slides from position A to position B or position C.

[0062] According to this embodiment, the throttle lever 2 can be rotated in a forward direction α and a reverse direction β, and the vehicle's drive source (engine) can be controlled by rotating it in the forward direction α, and the operation of a specified device mounted on the vehicle can be activated or stopped by rotating it in the reverse direction β.Therefore, by rotating the throttle lever 2, not only can the throttle be controlled but also other devices on the vehicle can be smoothly operated.

[0063] In addition, the detection sensor 11 in this embodiment can detect the rotational angle of the throttle lever 2 based on the magnetic changes of the magnet M that rotates in accordance with the throttle lever 2, and is attached to a position corresponding to the magnet M on the cover member 3, so that it can detect the rotational operation of the throttle lever 2 in the forward direction α and the rotational operation in the reverse direction β, respectively.Therefore, the cover member 3 has the function of covering the opening of the fixed member 1 and the function of attaching the detection sensor 11, making it easy to take waterproof measures for the area where the detection sensor 11 is attached (particularly, the accommodating recess 3a).

[0064] Furthermore, the rotating member 5 of this embodiment is formed with a first locking portion 5c that can lock one end Sa of the return spring S and a second locking portion 5d that can lock the other end Sb, and when the throttle lever 2 rotates in the forward direction α, one end Sa of the return spring S is locked to the first locking portion 5c and rotates in accordance with the rotation of the rotating member 5 while the other end Sb is locked to the fixed member 1 and fixed, and when the throttle lever 2 rotates in the reverse direction β, the other end Sb of the return spring S is locked to the second locking portion 5d and rotates in accordance with the rotation of the rotating member 5 while the one end Sa is locked to the fixed member 1 and fixed, so that the biasing force of one return spring S can be smoothly and reliably applied when the throttle lever 2 rotates in the forward direction α and in the reverse direction β.

[0065] Furthermore, the present invention is provided with a resistance force applying means 7 that generates friction and applies resistance when the throttle lever 2 is rotated in the forward direction α and the reverse direction β. This makes it possible to provide a similar operational feel compared to conventional systems that transmit the operation of the throttle lever to the engine side via an operating wire, thereby improving operability when rotating the throttle lever 2 (in this embodiment, both when rotating in the forward direction α and when rotating in the reverse direction β).

[0066] In addition, according to this embodiment, the device is provided with a rotating member 5 that is connected to the shaft member L and rotates in response to the rotational operation of the throttle lever 2, and the resistance force applying means 7 is attached to the rotating member 5 and configured to slide on the sliding surface Ka (in this embodiment, the sliding surface Ka of the sliding member K) formed on the cover member 3 to generate friction. Therefore, the cover member 3 has the function of covering the opening of the fixed member 1 and the function of attaching the detection sensor 11, and in addition, it can also have the function of holding the sliding surface Ka of the resistance force applying means 7.

[0067] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the sliding surface Ka formed on the cover member 3 is made of the surface Ka of the sliding member K formed along the movement trajectory of the resistance force applying means 7, so that the resistance force applying means 7 can be reliably slid along the sliding surface Ka. Furthermore, the resistance force applying means 7 according to this embodiment is made of a resin member that is biased toward the sliding surface Ka by the coil spring 8 (biasing means) attached to the rotating member 5, and the sliding member K is made of a metal member insert-molded into the cover member 3, so that the frictional force by the resistance force applying means 7 can be stably generated.

[0068] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the fixing member 1 is provided with a sealing member 9 that seals the inside thereof, and the cover member 3 is capable of sealing by pressing the sealing member 9 while attached to the fixing member 1. Therefore, the cover member 3 has the function of covering the opening of the fixing member 1 and the function of attaching the detection sensor 11, as well as the function of maintaining the seal provided by the sealing member 9.

[0069] In addition, according to this embodiment, a cover member 3 is provided to cover the opening of the fixed member 1, and the detection sensor 11 is attached to the cover member 3, so that the cover member 3 has the function of covering the opening of the fixed member 1 and the function of attaching the detection sensor 11, making it easy to take waterproof measures for the area where the detection sensor 11 is attached.

[0070] Next, a throttle operating device according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. Similar to the first embodiment, the throttle operating device according to the second embodiment is fixed to the handlebars of a vehicle such as an ATV or buggy, a watercraft such as a PWC (personal watercraft), or a snowmobile (in this embodiment, a vehicle such as an ATV or buggy) to control the engine (drive source) of the vehicle, and as shown in Figures 16 and 17, is configured to include a fixed member 1, a throttle lever 2, which is a so-called thumb lever, a cover member 3, a rotating member 5, resistance force applying means 7, a detection sensor 11, a return spring S, a sliding member K, and an operation load generating means 12. Note that, except for parts that will be described separately in this embodiment, parts common to the first embodiment are designated by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0071] The fixed member 1 is fixed to the handlebar H to rotatably support the throttle lever 2, and is adapted to be fixed near a grip formed at the tip of the vehicle's handlebar H. As shown in Figures 18 and 19, the fixed member 1 is open at the top and has an accommodating recess formed therein, and has a clamping member 4 attached thereto so that the handlebar H can be clamped and fixed by the clamping member 4.

[0072] In addition, the bottom surface of the accommodating recess formed inside the fixed member 1 is provided with an attachment groove 1b for fitting and positioning the sealing member 9 (see Figure 17), a through hole 1c for inserting the shaft member L to allow rotational operation of the throttle lever 1, a first fixed portion 1d for engaging and fixing one end Sa (see Figures 23 to 25) of the return spring S, a second fixed portion 1e for engaging and fixing the other end Sb (see Figures 23 to 25) of the return spring S, and a third fixed portion 1f for engaging and fixing the pressed portion 13b (see Figures 25 to 28) of the operating load generating means 12.

[0073] Here, in the throttle operating device of this embodiment, as in the first embodiment, the throttle lever 2 can be rotated in a forward direction α and a reverse direction β relative to the fixed member 1, and the detection sensor 11 is attached to a position corresponding to the magnet M on the cover member 3, so that the rotation operation of the throttle lever 2 in the forward direction α and the rotation operation in the reverse direction β can be detected, respectively.The rotation operation in the forward direction α can control the vehicle's engine (drive source), and the rotation operation in the reverse direction β can operate or stop the operation of a specified device mounted on the vehicle.

[0074] Furthermore, one end Sa of the return spring S is engageable with the first locking portion 5c of the rotating member 5 (see FIGS. 21 and 25) and the first fixed portion 1d of the fixed member 1 (see FIGS. 18 and 19), and the other end Sb is engageable with the second locking portion 5d of the rotating member 5 (see FIGS. 22 and 25) and the second fixed portion 1e of the fixed member 1 (see FIGS. 18 and 19). When the throttle lever 2 is rotated in the forward direction α and the rotating member 5 rotates in the same direction, the one end Sa of the return spring S is engaged with the first locking portion 5c and rotates in response to the rotation of the rotating member 5, while the other end Sb is engaged with and fixed to the second fixed portion 1e of the fixed member 1, so that a biasing force is applied in the direction returning the throttle lever 2 to its initial position.

[0075] Furthermore, when the throttle lever 2 is rotated in the reverse direction β and the rotating member 5 rotates in the same direction, the other end Sb of the return spring S is engaged with the second engaging portion 5d and rotates in accordance with the rotation of the rotating member 5, while one end Sa is engaged with and fixed to the first fixed portion 1d of the fixed member 1, and a biasing force is applied in the direction of returning the throttle lever 2 to its initial position.

[0076] However, the throttle operating device of this embodiment is equipped with an operating load generating means 12 that generates a predetermined operating load when the throttle lever 2 is rotated in the reverse direction β, and does not generate any operating load when the throttle lever 2 is rotated in the forward direction α, so that the operating load of the throttle lever 2 in the reverse direction β is set to be greater than the operating load in the forward direction α.

[0077] As shown in Figures 23, 24 and 28, the operating load generating means 12 is attached to the mounting groove 6e formed in the mounting member 6 and is capable of rotating together with the rotating member 5 to generate an operating load, and as shown in Figures 26 and 27, it is equipped with a displacement means 13 that is displaced in response to the rotational operation of the throttle lever 2 in the reverse direction β, and a biasing means 14 that generates a biasing force in response to the displacement of the displacement means 13.

[0078] Displacement means 13 is made of a member extending in an arc shape along the rotation direction of mounting member 6, and is configured with an accommodating recess 13a that accommodates biasing means 14, a pressed portion 13b that protrudes laterally, and a protruding portion 13c that protrudes upward. Biasing means 14 is made of a coil spring that extends in an arc shape, and is accommodated in accommodating recess 13a that is also arc-shaped. Mounting member 6 also has an arc-shaped insertion groove 6f, as shown in FIG. 28, and when displacement means 13 with biasing means 14 attached is attached to mounting groove 6e of mounting member 6, protruding portion 13c is inserted into insertion groove 6f formed in mounting member 6.

[0079] When the throttle lever 2 is operated in the reverse direction β, the integral component Y rotates in the same direction and the mounting member 6 rotates in the reverse direction β, as shown in FIG. 19, the pressed portion 13b of the displacement means 13 abuts against the third fixed portion 1f, so the displacement means 13 is displaced relative to the mounting member 6 (see the two-dot chain line in FIG. 28) and compresses the biasing means 14. As a result, when the throttle lever 2 is rotated in the reverse direction β, a predetermined operating load can be generated by the biasing force of the biasing means 14. Note that when the displacement means 13 is displaced relative to the mounting member 6, the protrusion 13c of the displacement means 13 moves along the insertion groove 6f, so stable displacement can be achieved.

[0080] On the other hand, when the throttle lever 2 is operated in the forward direction α, the integral component Y rotates in the same direction and the mounting member 6 rotates in the forward direction α, the displacement means 13 and the biasing means 14 rotate following the mounting member 6, so no displacement (relative displacement) occurs with respect to the mounting member 6 and the biasing means 14 is not compressed. As a result, when the throttle lever 2 is operated to rotate in the forward direction α, no biasing force is generated by the biasing means 14 and no operation load is generated by the operation load generating means 12. Note that when the throttle lever 2 is operated in the forward direction α, no operation load is generated by the operation load generating means 12, but as described above, an operation load is generated by the biasing force of the return spring S.

[0081] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the return spring S is provided to bias the throttle lever 2 to its initial position when the throttle lever 2 is rotated in the forward direction α and the reverse direction β, so that when the throttle lever 2 is rotated in the reverse direction β, both the biasing force of the return spring S and the operation load generated by the operation load generating means 12 are generated simultaneously. In other words, when the throttle lever 2 is rotated in the reverse direction β, the biasing force of the return spring S and the operation load generated by the operation load generating means 12 are added together, and the resultant force is applied as the operation load.

[0082] According to this embodiment, the throttle lever 2 can be rotated in a forward direction α and a reverse direction β, and the vehicle's drive source (engine) can be controlled by rotating it in the forward direction α, and the operation of a specified device mounted on the vehicle can be activated or stopped by rotating it in the reverse direction β.Therefore, by rotating the throttle lever 2, not only can the throttle be controlled but also other devices on the vehicle can be smoothly operated.

[0083] In particular, the throttle lever 2 according to this embodiment is set so that the operation load in the reverse direction β is greater than the operation load in the forward direction α, making it possible to prevent the throttle lever 2 from being unintentionally operated in the reverse direction β when being rotated in the forward direction α. ​​Furthermore, this embodiment is provided with operation load generating means 12 that generates a predetermined operation load when the throttle lever 2 is rotated in the reverse direction β and does not generate any operation load when the throttle lever 2 is rotated in the forward direction α, making it possible to set the operation load in the reverse direction β of the throttle lever 2 greater than the operation load in the forward direction α.

[0084] Furthermore, since the operation load generating means 12 is capable of generating an operation load by rotating together with the rotating member 5, an operation load can be reliably generated when the throttle lever 2 is operated in the reverse direction β. Furthermore, the operation load generating means 12 according to this embodiment is equipped with the displacement means 13 which is displaced in response to the rotational operation of the throttle lever 2 in the reverse direction β, and the biasing means 14 which generates a biasing force in response to the displacement of the displacement means 13, so that an operation load can be reliably and smoothly generated when the throttle lever 2 is operated in the reverse direction β.

[0085] In addition, according to this embodiment, when the throttle lever 2 is rotated in the forward direction α and the reverse direction β, a return spring S is provided which biases the throttle lever 2 to its initial position, and when the throttle lever 2 is rotated in the reverse direction β, a biasing force by the return spring S and an operating load by the operating load generating means 12 are generated. Therefore, when the throttle lever 2 is operated in the reverse direction β, a relatively large resistance (combined operating load) can be generated which is the sum of the operating load generated by the operating load generating means 12 and the biasing force by the return spring S.

[0086] Next, a throttle operating device according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. The throttle operating device of the third embodiment, like the first embodiment, is fixed to the handlebar of a vehicle such as an ATV or buggy, a watercraft such as a PWC (personal watercraft), or a vehicle such as a snowmobile (in this embodiment, a watercraft such as a PWC) so as to be able to control the engine (drive source) of the watercraft, and is configured to have a first fixing member 15a and a second fixing member 15b, a throttle lever 16, a retaining case 18, a detection sensor 20, a return spring S, a first cover part 25 and a second cover part 26, as shown in Figures 29 to 34.

[0087] The first fixing member 15a and the second fixing member 15b are fixed near the grip formed at the tip of the handlebar H of a watercraft such as a PWC, and are fixed to the handlebar H by aligning the arc-shaped notch 15aa formed in the first fixing member 15a and the arc-shaped notch 15ba formed in the second fixing member 15b with the outer peripheral surface of the handlebar H and tightening them together with bolts.

[0088] The second fixing member 15b has an operation switch D formed on its front side, and various electrical equipment on the boat can be operated by operating the operation switch D. The first fixing member 15a has a throttle lever 16 rotatably attached thereto, and has an opening 15ab formed at a predetermined position. As shown in Figures 34 and 37, the opening 15ab is formed by penetrating the wall surface of the first fixing member 15a, and a bulge 15ac that protrudes inward is formed on part of the peripheral edge.

[0089] The throttle lever 16 is attached by extending from the first fixed member 15a, can be rotated while gripping a grip, and in this embodiment is configured with a first operating lever portion 16a and a second operating lever portion 16b. Specifically, as shown in Figures 35 and 36, the throttle lever 16 according to this embodiment is configured by connecting the first operating lever portion 16a and the second operating lever portion 16b, and can be rotated in the forward direction α by pulling the first operating lever portion 16a toward you with the index finger or the like, and can be rotated in the reverse direction β by pressing the second operating lever portion 16b with the thumb or the like, as shown in Figure 30.

[0090] Furthermore, a shaft support member f2 is attached to the rotation center position of the first operating lever portion 16a, and a shaft support member f1 is attached to the rotation center position of the second operating lever portion 16b, and as shown in Figure 32, a shaft member La is attached coaxially between these shaft support members f1 and f2. The shaft member La is made of a shaft-shaped member that rotates together with the rotational operation of the throttle lever 16, and is attached inside a retaining case 18 fixed inside the first fixed member 15a, so that it can rotate around its axis in response to the rotational operation of the throttle lever 16.

[0091] A magnet M is fixed to a predetermined position on the shaft member La. The magnet M is attached to the shaft member La while being held by a holding member 24, and is rotatable together with the shaft member La when the throttle lever 16 is rotated. The holding case 18 is fitted with a bearing 22 that allows the shaft member La to rotate smoothly relative to the holding case 18, and a seal member 23 that prevents water and foreign matter from entering the inside of the holding case 18.

[0092] Furthermore, a sensor case 21 having a detection sensor 20 attached thereto is fixed at a predetermined position on the first fixed member 15a. As shown in Fig. 33, the detection sensor 20 is formed on a substrate 19 and is capable of detecting the rotational angle of the throttle lever 16. In this embodiment, the detection sensor 20 is an angle sensor that detects magnetic changes in a magnet M to detect the rotational angle of the throttle lever 16. That is, when the magnet M rotates in conjunction with the rotation of the throttle lever 16, the detection sensor 20 detects the magnetic changes in the magnet M caused by that rotation, thereby making it possible to detect the rotational angle of the throttle lever 16.

[0093] When the detection sensor 20 detects the rotational angle of the throttle lever 16, the detection signal is transmitted via wiring connected to the board 19 to the ECU (engine control unit) equipped on the ship or to a specified device mounted on the ship, and the ship's engine (power source) is controlled or a specified device on the ship (for example, the ship is moved backward) based on the rotational angle of the throttle lever 16.

[0094] 30 and 33, the throttle operating device according to this embodiment is configured so that the throttle lever 16 can be rotated in a forward direction α and a reverse direction β relative to the first fixed member 15a and the second fixed member 15b, and the detection sensor 20 is attached at a position corresponding to the magnet M and can detect rotation of the throttle lever 16 in the forward direction α and the reverse direction β. The engine (drive source) of the boat can be controlled by rotating the throttle lever 16 in the forward direction α, and can operate a reversing member (a switching member called a reverse gate or reverse bucket that changes the direction of the jet flow of the jet pump) mounted on the boat by rotating the throttle lever 16 in the reverse direction β.

[0095] Here, as shown in Fig. 32, a return spring S is attached to the shaft member La according to this embodiment, which urges the throttle lever 16 to its initial position when the throttle lever 16 is rotated (when rotated in the forward direction α and when rotated in the reverse direction β). As shown in Figs. 38 and 39, the return spring S according to this embodiment is made of a torsion coil spring having one end Sa and the other end Sb, and the one end Sa side is covered by the first cover part 25, and the other end Sb side is covered by the second cover part 26.

[0096] The first cover part 25 is made of a resin member having a main body 25a covering the coil portion (the coil portion on one end Sa side) of the return spring S, a protrusion 25b covering one end Sa of the return spring S, and a central hole 25c passing through the center of the main body 25a, and the second cover part 26 is made of a resin member having a main body 26a covering the coil portion (the coil portion on the other end Sb side) of the return spring S, a protrusion 26b covering the other end Sb of the return spring S, and a central hole 26c passing through the center of the main body 25a.

[0097] 39, the first cover part 25 and the second cover part 26 are brought into a mated state, and are attached to the shaft member La as shown in Fig. 35, so that the first cover part 25 and the second cover part 26 can rotate independently in response to movement of one end Sa and the other end Sb of the return spring S. That is, the return spring S can generate a biasing force by rotating the protruding part 26b of the second cover part 26 while the protruding part 25b of the first cover part 25 is fixed, or by rotating the protruding part 25b of the first cover part 25 while the protruding part 26b of the second cover part 26 is fixed.

[0098] 36, an operating portion 17 having a first pressing surface 17a and a second pressing surface 17b is integrally formed with the throttle lever 16 (second operating lever portion 16b in this embodiment). As shown in FIGS. 34 and 37, the operating portion 17 is located between one end Sa and the other end Sb of the return spring 16 (between the protruding portion 25b of the first cover part 25 and the protruding portion 26b of the second cover part 26 in this embodiment), and is rotatable in response to the rotation of the throttle lever 16.

[0099] The second pressing surface 17b of the operating unit 17 according to this embodiment is formed by the edge surface of a notch formed in the operating unit 17, and as shown in Fig. 35, the protrusion 26b of the second cover part 26 is brought into contact with the second pressing surface 17b, and the protrusion 25b of the first cover part 25 is brought into contact with the first pressing surface 17a when assembled. Meanwhile, the opening 15ab of the first fixing member 15a is formed with the above-mentioned bulge 15ac, as shown in Figs. 34 and 37, and the bulge 15ac, in addition to the operating unit 17, is positioned between the protrusion 25b of the first cover part 25 and the protrusion 26b of the second cover part 26.

[0100] When the first operating lever portion 16a of the throttle lever 16 is rotated in the forward direction α, the operating portion 17 rotates in the forward direction α, the first pressing surface 17a presses the protruding portion 25b of the first cover part 25, the first cover part 25 rotates about the shaft member La, and the protruding portion 26b of the second cover part 26 interferes with the bulging portion 15ac, restricting the rotation of the second cover part 26. When the second operating lever portion 16b of the throttle lever 16 is rotated in the reverse direction β, the operating portion 17 rotates in the reverse direction β, the second pressing surface 17b presses the protruding portion 26b of the second cover part 26, the second cover part 26 rotates about the shaft member La, and the protruding portion 25b of the first cover part 25 interferes with the bulging portion 15ac, restricting the rotation of the first cover part 25.

[0101] Therefore, according to this embodiment, when the throttle lever 16 is rotated in the forward direction α by rotating the first throttle lever 16a, the other end Sb of the return spring S is fixed while one end Sa is pressed by the operating portion 17 and rotates to obtain a biasing force, and when the throttle lever 16 is rotated in the reverse direction β by rotating the second throttle lever 16b, one end Sa of the return spring S is fixed while the other end Sb is pressed by the operating portion 17 and rotates to obtain a biasing force.

[0102] In this embodiment, second pressing surface 17b is formed from the edge surface of a notch formed in operation unit 17, but it is sufficient if at least one of first pressing surface 17a and second pressing surface 17b is formed from the edge surface of a notch formed in operation unit 17. For example, first pressing surface 17a may be formed from the edge surface of a notch formed in operation unit 17, or both first pressing surface 17a and second pressing surface 17b may be formed from the edge surface of a notch formed in operation unit 17. Also, no notch may be formed in operation unit 17, and both edge surfaces thereof may serve as first pressing surface 17a and second pressing surface 17b.

[0103] According to this embodiment, the throttle lever 16 can be rotated in a forward direction α and a reverse direction β, and by rotating it in the forward direction α, the drive source (engine) of the vessel can be controlled, and by rotating it in the reverse direction β, a specific device (a component for reversing) mounted on the vessel can be operated or the operation of that device can be stopped.Therefore, by rotating the throttle lever 16, not only can the throttle be controlled but also other devices on the vessel can be smoothly operated.

[0104] Furthermore, when the throttle lever 16 rotates in the forward direction α, the other end Sb of the return spring S is fixed while one end Sa is pressed by the operating unit 17 to rotate and obtain a biasing force, and when the throttle lever 16 rotates in the reverse direction, one end Sa of the return spring S is fixed while the other end Sb is pressed by the operating unit 17 to rotate and obtain a biasing force. Therefore, when the throttle lever 16 rotates in the forward direction α and the reverse direction β, a smooth biasing force can be obtained with the single return spring S.

[0105] Furthermore, the operating unit 17 has a first cover part 25 that covers one end Sa of the return spring S and a second cover part 26 that covers the other end Sb of the return spring S, and the operating unit 17 is capable of rotating by pressing the first cover part 25 or the second cover part 26 depending on the rotation direction of the throttle lever 16, so that a stable biasing force from the return spring S can be obtained when the throttle lever 16 rotates in the forward direction α and the reverse direction β.

[0106] Furthermore, the operating unit 17 has a first pressing surface 17a that presses the first cover part 25 (protrusion 25b) and a second pressing surface 17b that presses the second cover part 26 (protrusion 26b), and at least one of the first pressing surface 17a and the second pressing surface 17b is made up of the edge surface of a notch formed in the operating unit 17. Therefore, by appropriately determining the width dimension of the notch, the distance between the first pressing surface 17a and the second pressing surface 17b can be adjusted, and the first pressing surface 17a and the second pressing surface 17b can be made to correspond to the initial positions of one end Sa and the other end Sb of the return spring S.

[0107] Next, a throttle operating device according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described. Similar to the third embodiment, the throttle operating device according to the fourth embodiment is fixed to the handlebars of a vehicle such as an ATV or buggy, a watercraft such as a PWC (personal watercraft), or a snowmobile (in this embodiment, a watercraft such as a PWC) so as to be able to control the engine (drive source) of the watercraft, and as shown in Figures 40 to 44, is configured to include a first fixing member 15a and a second fixing member 15b, a throttle lever 16, a holding case 18, a detection sensor 20, return springs (S1, S2), and neutral position holding means 27. Note that, except for parts that will be described separately in this embodiment, parts common to the third embodiment are designated by the same reference numerals and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0108] As in the third embodiment, the throttle lever 16 is configured by connecting a first operating lever portion 16a and a second operating lever portion 16b, and can be rotated in a forward direction α by pulling the first operating lever portion 16a toward you with an index finger or the like, and can be rotated in a reverse direction β by pressing the second operating lever portion 16b with a thumb or the like. As in the third embodiment, an operating switch D is formed on the front side of the second fixing member 15b, and by operating this operating switch D, various electrical equipment equipped on the boat can be operated.

[0109] Furthermore, a shaft support member f2 is attached to the rotation center position of the first operating lever portion 16a, and a shaft support member f1 is attached to the rotation center position of the second operating lever portion 16b, and as shown in Figure 43, shaft members Lb, Lc are attached and connected coaxially between these shaft support members f1, f2. These shaft members Lb, Lc are made of shaft-shaped members that rotate together with the rotation operation of the throttle lever 16, and are attached inside a retaining case 18 fixed within the first fixed member 15a, so that they can rotate about their axis in response to the rotation operation of the throttle lever 16.

[0110] A magnet M is fixed to a predetermined position on the shaft member Lb. The magnet M is attached to the shaft member Lb while being held by a holding member 24, and is rotatable together with the shaft member Lb when the throttle lever 16 is rotated. The holding case 18 is fitted with two bearings 22 that allow the shaft members Lb and Lc to rotate smoothly relative to the holding case 18, and two seal members 23 that prevent water and foreign matter from entering the inside of the holding case 18.

[0111] 42, the detection sensor 20 is formed on the substrate 19 and is capable of detecting the rotational angle of the throttle lever 16. As in the third embodiment, the detection sensor 20 is an angle sensor that detects magnetic changes in the magnet M to detect the rotational angle. That is, when the magnet M rotates in conjunction with the rotation of the throttle lever 16, the detection sensor 20 detects the magnetic changes in the magnet M caused by that rotation, and can thereby detect the rotational angle of the throttle lever 16.

[0112] When the detection sensor 20 detects the rotational angle of the throttle lever 16, the detection signal is transmitted via wiring connected to the board 19 to the ECU (engine control unit) equipped on the ship or to a specified device mounted on the ship, and the ship's engine (power source) is controlled or a specified device on the ship (for example, the ship is moved backward) based on the rotational angle of the throttle lever 16.

[0113] That is, in the throttle operating device according to this embodiment, similarly to the third embodiment, the throttle lever 16 can be rotated in the forward direction α and the reverse direction β relative to the first fixed member 15a and the second fixed member 15b, and the detection sensor 20 is attached at a position corresponding to the magnet M and can detect the rotation of the throttle lever 16 in the forward direction α and the reverse direction β. The engine (drive source) of the boat can be controlled by rotating the throttle lever 16 in the forward direction α, and the rotation of the throttle lever 16 in the reverse direction β can operate a reversing member (a switching member called a reverse gate or reverse bucket that changes the direction of the jet flow of the jet pump) mounted on the boat.

[0114] Here, as shown in Figures 43 and 44, a forward rotation return spring S1 is attached to the shaft members Lb and Lc in this embodiment, which urges the throttle lever 16 to its initial position when the throttle lever 16 is rotated in the forward direction α, and a reverse rotation return spring S2 is attached to the shaft members Lb and Lc in this embodiment, which urges the throttle lever 16 to its initial position when the throttle lever 16 is rotated in the reverse direction β.

[0115] The forward rotation return spring S1 and the reverse rotation return spring S2 are disposed at positions sandwiching the magnet M (positions where the forward rotation return spring S1 is on one side of the magnet M and the reverse rotation return spring S2 is on the other side). Furthermore, the forward rotation return spring S1 according to this embodiment has one end attached to the disc-shaped member 29 and the other end attached to the disc-shaped member 30, while the reverse rotation return spring S2 has one end attached to the disc-shaped member 31 and the other end attached to the disc-shaped member 32.

[0116] When the first operating lever portion 16a of the throttle lever 16 is rotated in the forward direction α, one of the disc-shaped member 29 and the disc-shaped member 30 is engaged and fixed to the retaining case 18, and the other is engaged and rotated by the shaft members (Lb, Lc), thereby obtaining the biasing force of the forward rotation return spring S1. At this time, the shaft member Lc is not engaged with the disc-shaped members 31 and 32 and spins freely, and the biasing force of the reverse rotation return spring S2 is not obtained.

[0117] On the other hand, when the second operating lever portion 16b of the throttle lever 16 is rotated in the reverse direction β, one of the disc-shaped member 31 and the disc-shaped member 32 is engaged and fixed to the retaining case 18, and the other is engaged and rotated by the shaft members (Lb, Lc), thereby obtaining the biasing force of the reverse rotation return spring S2. At this time, the shaft member Lb is not engaged with the disc-shaped members 29 and 30 and spins freely, and the biasing force of the forward rotation return spring S1 is not obtained.

[0118] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a neutral position maintaining means 27 is attached to maintain the shaft members (Lb, Lc) in a neutral position. The neutral position maintaining means 27 is configured to include a spherical member 27a and a coil spring 27b, and is assembled in a state in which the spherical member 27a, biased by the coil spring 27b, is pressed against a rotating plate member 28 attached to the shaft member Lb. When the throttle lever 16 is not rotated, the rotating plate member 28 is pressed by the spherical member 27a, thereby maintaining the neutral position of the shaft members Lb, Lc.

[0119] According to this embodiment, the throttle lever 16 can be rotated in a forward direction α and a reverse direction β, and by rotating it in the forward direction α, the drive source (engine) of the vessel can be controlled, and by rotating it in the reverse direction β, a specific device (a component for reversing) mounted on the vessel can be operated or the operation of that device can be stopped.Therefore, by rotating the throttle lever 16, not only can the throttle be controlled but also other devices on the vessel can be smoothly operated.

[0120] In addition, the device is equipped with an axial member (Lb, Lc) that is connected to the throttle lever 16 and rotates around its axis in response to the rotational operation of the throttle lever 16, a forward rotation return spring S1 that is attached to the axial member Lb and urges the throttle lever 16 to its initial position when the throttle lever 16 rotates in the forward direction α, and a reverse rotation return spring S2 that is attached to the axial member Lc and urges the throttle lever 16 to its initial position when the throttle lever 16 rotates in the reverse direction β, so that the urging force when the throttle lever 16 rotates in the forward direction α and the urging force when the throttle lever 16 rotates in the reverse direction β can each be set appropriately.

[0121] Furthermore, the detection sensor 20 of this embodiment is configured to detect the rotation operation of the throttle lever 16 in the forward direction α and the rotation operation of the throttle lever 16 in the reverse direction β by detecting changes in the magnetic force of the magnet M attached to the shaft member (Lb, Lc), and the forward rotation return spring S1 and the reverse rotation return spring S2 are arranged at positions on either side of the magnet M, so that the rotation of the throttle lever 16 in the forward direction α and the reverse direction β can be performed stably.

[0122] Furthermore, since a neutral position holding means 27 is provided to hold the shaft members (Lb, Lc) in the neutral position, the shaft members (Lb, Lc) can be reliably held in the neutral position even if the biasing forces of the forward rotation return spring S1 and the reverse rotation return spring S2 are different. Note that a recess may be formed in the rotating plate member 28 at the position where the spherical member 27a is pressed, thereby increasing the holding force in the neutral position.

[0123] While the present embodiment has been described above, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, as long as the throttle lever 2 can be rotated in the forward direction α and the reverse direction β, the shape and assembly structure of the return spring S may be different. The resistance force applying means 7 may be attached to a component (such as the mounting member 6) different from the rotating member 5, or the resistance force applying means 7 may not be provided. Furthermore, although the sliding member K is described as being made of a metal member, it may be made of other materials as long as it can generate friction and apply resistance force through the sliding of the resistance force applying means 7, and may be attached to the cover member 3 by a method other than insert molding, such as screw fastening. It is also possible to not provide a separate sliding member K, and to machine the underside 3b of the cover member 3 to serve as the sliding surface for the biasing force applying means 7. [Industrial Applicability]

[0124] The present invention can also be applied to devices with different external shapes or devices with additional functions, provided that they have the same gist as the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0125] 1 Fixing member 1a Regulatory Department 1b Mounting groove 1c through hole 1d 1st fixed part 1e 2nd fixed part 1f 3rd fixed part 2 throttle lever 2a Protrusion 3 Cover member 3a Receiving recess 3b Bottom side 3ba contact surface 3bb Pressing surface 4 Holding member 5 Rotating members 5a Mounting part 5aa retaining groove 5b Through hole 5c 1st locking part 5d 2nd locking part 6 Mounting parts 6a Receiving recess 6b Central convex part 6c Locking claw 6d Fitting hole 6e Mounting groove 6f Insertion groove 7 Resistance Imparting Means 7a Tip surface 7b Boss part 7c protrusion 8 Coil spring (biasing means) 9 Sealing material 10 Substrate 11 Detection sensor 12 Operation load generating means 13 Displacement means 13a Receiving recess 13b Pressed portion 13c Protrusion 14. Actuation means 15a First fixing member 15aa Circular notch 15ab opening 15ac bulge 15b Second fixing member 15ba Arc-shaped notch 16 Throttle lever 16a First operating lever part 16b Second operating lever part 17 Control section 17a First pressing surface 17b Second pressing surface 18 Holding Case 19 Circuit Board 20 Detection sensor 21 Sensor case 22 Bearings 23 Sealing material 24 Retaining member 25 First cover part 25a Main body 25b Protrusion 25c center hole 26 Second cover part 26a Main body 26b Protrusion 26c center hole 27 Neutral position holding means 27a Spherical member 27b coil spring 28 Rotating Plate 29~32 Disc-shaped members H handlebar L shaft member La shaft member Lb, Lc shaft member M magnet Ma through hole Mb Notch Mc protrusion S return spring One end of Sa Sb other end S1 Return spring for forward rotation S2 Reverse rotation return spring K sliding member Ka sliding surface Na mounting screw Nb mounting screws W washer n Mounting screws Y integral component D Operation switch f1, f2 shaft support member α positive direction β backward direction

Claims

1. a fixed member fixed near a grip formed at the tip of a handlebar of a vehicle; a throttle lever that is attached to the fixed member and that can be rotated while gripping the grip; a shaft member connected to the throttle lever and rotating about its axis in response to a rotational operation of the throttle lever; a detection sensor disposed on the fixed member and capable of detecting a rotational operation angle of the throttle lever; a return spring attached to the shaft member and biasing the throttle lever to an initial position when the throttle lever is rotated; an operation portion located between one end and the other end of the return spring and rotatable in response to a rotational operation of the throttle lever; a throttle operation device capable of controlling a drive source of a vehicle based on a rotational operation angle of the throttle lever detected by the detection sensor, The throttle lever is rotatable in a forward direction and a reverse direction about the shaft member, and is capable of controlling a drive source of a vehicle by rotating in a forward direction, and of operating or stopping a predetermined device mounted on the vehicle by rotating in a reverse direction; and when the throttle lever rotates in a forward direction, the other end of the return spring is fixed while the one end is pressed by the operating portion to rotate, thereby obtaining an urging force; and when the throttle lever rotates in a reverse direction, the one end of the return spring is fixed while the other end is pressed by the operating portion to rotate, thereby obtaining an urging force; and further, a first cover part that covers the one end side of the return spring; a second cover part that covers the other end side of the return spring; wherein the operation portion is rotatable by pressing the first cover component or the second cover component in accordance with the rotation direction of the throttle lever.

2. A throttle operating device as described in claim 1, characterized in that the operating part has a first pressing surface that presses the first cover part and a second pressing surface that presses the second cover part, and at least one of the first pressing surface and the second pressing surface is made up of an edge surface of a notch formed in the operating part.

3. A throttle operating device as described in claim 1 or claim 2, characterized in that it is provided with a magnet attached to the shaft member, the detection sensor is attached at a position corresponding to the magnet, and is capable of detecting the rotational operating angle of the throttle lever based on the magnetic change of the magnet which rotates in accordance with the throttle lever, and is capable of detecting the rotational operation of the throttle lever in the forward direction and the rotational operation in the reverse direction, respectively.

4. A throttle operating device described in any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the return spring consists of a torsion coil spring having a coil portion, the first cover part consists of a resin member having a main body part covering the coil portion on one end side of the return spring and a protrusion part covering the one end of the return spring, and the second cover part consists of a resin member having a main body part covering the coil portion on the other end side of the return spring and a protrusion part covering the other end of the return spring.

Images