Mist blower

Abstract

To provide a mist blower enabling a user to unintentionally suppress leakage of liquid from a blower pipe.SOLUTION: A mist blower comprises an air blower, a blower pipe, a liquid tank, a liquid supply pipe, a liquid nozzle, a first electromagnetic valve, a control unit, and an operation unit. The liquid nozzle receives a supply of liquid from the liquid tank via the liquid supply pipe by a negative pressure generated by air flowing in the blower pipe, and ejects the liquid. The first electromagnetic valve is arranged in the liquid supply pipe and opens and closes a flow path in the liquid supply pipe. The control unit controls drive of the air blower and the first electromagnetic valve.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a mist blower.

Background Art

[0002] The backpack-type mist blower described in Patent Document 1 includes a blower unit, a tank, a blower pipe, a liquid supply pipe, and an opening / closing valve. The blower unit is driven by an engine to eject air into the blower pipe. The tank stores liquid. The liquid supply pipe sends the liquid stored in the tank to the blower pipe. The opening / closing bubble is provided in the liquid supply pipe and opens or closes the flow path of the liquid supply pipe according to manual operation.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the above backpack-type mist blower, when the opening / closing valve opens and the engine is driven, the liquid in the tank is sucked out to the tip opening of the blower pipe by the atmospheric pressure and the negative pressure generated by the blower unit, and is sprayed in a mist form from the tip opening. Even when the engine is stopped, if the opening / closing valve is open, the liquid leaks from the tip opening. Therefore, if the user forgets to close the opening / closing valve when stopping the engine, the liquid leaks from the tip opening. Even when the engine is replaced with a motor, if the user forgets to close the opening / closing valve when stopping the motor, the liquid leaks.

[0005] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a mist blower capable of suppressing the leakage of liquid from the blower pipe unintentionally by the user.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] A mist blower in one aspect of the present disclosure comprises a blower, a blower pipe, a liquid tank, a liquid supply pipe, a liquid nozzle, a first solenoid valve, a control unit, and an operating unit. The blower generates airflow. The airflow generated by the blower flows through the blower pipe. The liquid tank holds liquid. The liquid supply pipe has an inlet and an outlet, the inlet of which is connected to the liquid tank. The liquid nozzle is located inside the blower pipe and connected to the outlet. The liquid nozzle receives liquid from the liquid tank via the liquid supply pipe due to the negative pressure created by the airflow through the blower pipe and discharges the liquid. The first solenoid valve is located in the liquid supply pipe and opens and closes the flow path within the liquid supply pipe. The control unit controls the operation of the blower and the first solenoid valve. The operating unit instructs the blower to be driven or stopped in response to manual operation by the user.

[0007] A mist blower in one aspect of the present disclosure comprises a first solenoid valve electrically controlled by a control unit. The liquid delivery pipe is opened and closed by the first solenoid valve, so that the liquid is discharged at the appropriate time and so that liquid does not leak out of the liquid delivery pipe unintentionally by the user. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This is a schematic perspective view showing the appearance of the mist blower according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a schematic front view showing the appearance of the mist blower according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] This is a schematic diagram showing the airflow path and liquid flow path of a mist blower according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] This is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of a mist blower according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] This is a flowchart showing the control process for the motor and solenoid according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] This flowchart shows the temperature anomaly detection process according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] This flowchart shows the current anomaly detection process according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8]It is a flowchart showing the control process of the motor according to the second embodiment. [Figure 9] It is a flowchart showing the control process of the solenoid according to the second embodiment. [Figure 10] It is a schematic diagram showing the air passage and liquid passage of the mist blower according to the third embodiment. [Figure 11] It is a schematic diagram showing the air passage and liquid passage of the mist blower according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 12] It is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the mist blower according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 13] It is a table showing the opening degree of the solenoid bubble with respect to the set value of the liquid amount adjustment dial according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 14] It is a flowchart showing the control process of the motor and solenoid according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 15] It is a flowchart showing the error detection process according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 16] It is a schematic diagram showing the air passage and liquid passage of the mist blower according to the fifth embodiment. [Figure 17] It is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the mist blower according to the fifth embodiment. [Figure 18] It is a flowchart showing the control process of the solenoid according to the fifth embodiment. [Figure 19] It is a flowchart showing the control process of the solenoid according to the sixth embodiment. [Figure 20] It is a diagram showing the configuration of the engine type mist blower according to the seventh embodiment. [Figure 21] It is a flowchart showing the control process of the engine according to the seventh embodiment. [Figure 22] It is a flowchart showing the control process of the solenoid according to the seventh embodiment. [Figure 23] It is a flowchart showing the control process of the solenoid according to the eighth embodiment.

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0009] [Summary of Embodiment] The mist blower in one embodiment may include a blower, a blower duct, a liquid tank, a liquid supply pipe, a liquid nozzle, a first solenoid valve, a control unit, and / or an operation unit. The blower may generate wind. The blower duct may allow the wind generated by the blower to flow through. The liquid tank may hold liquid. The liquid supply pipe may have an inlet and an outlet, and the inlet may be connected to the liquid tank. The liquid nozzle may be disposed inside the blower duct and connected to the outlet. The liquid nozzle may receive the supply of liquid from the liquid tank through the liquid supply pipe due to the negative pressure generated by the wind flowing through the blower duct, and may discharge the liquid. The first solenoid valve may be disposed in the liquid supply pipe and may open and close the flow path inside the liquid supply pipe. The control unit may control the driving of the blower and the first solenoid valve. The operation unit may instruct the driving or stopping of the blower in response to being manually operated by the user.

[0010] In one embodiment, the mist blower may further include a connection part. The connection part may be connected to a battery. The blower may include an impeller and a motor. The motor may receive power from the battery connected to the connection part and rotate the impeller. The first solenoid valve may include a solenoid. A current from the battery may flow through the solenoid. The operation unit may be displaced between an off position and an on position by manual operation by the user. The operation unit may control the control unit to stop the motor and close the first solenoid valve in the off position. The operation unit may control the control unit to drive the motor and open the first solenoid valve in the on position.

[0011] When the mist blower in one embodiment has all of the above features, the first solenoid valve opens in conjunction with the driving of the motor and closes in conjunction with the stopping of the motor. Therefore, it is possible to appropriately suppress the leakage of liquid from the blower duct unintentionally by the user. Also, the user can control the driving and stopping of the motor and the opening and closing of the first solenoid valve by manually operating the operation unit.

[0012] In one embodiment, the blower may include an engine, a power generation unit, and an impeller connected to a shaft. The power generation unit may be connected to the engine shaft and generate electricity by the rotation of the engine. The first solenoid valve may include a solenoid. Current from the power generation unit may flow through the solenoid. The operating unit may be displaced between an off position and an on position by manual operation by a user. In the off position, the operating unit may command the control unit to decrease the engine speed and close the first solenoid valve. In the on position, the operating unit may command the control unit to increase the engine speed and open the first solenoid valve.

[0013] In one embodiment, if the mist blower has all of the above features, the first solenoid valve opens in conjunction with an increase in engine speed and closes in conjunction with a decrease in engine speed. Therefore, it is possible to effectively prevent liquid from leaking out of the air duct unintentionally. In addition, the user can control the increase and decrease in engine speed, as well as the opening and closing of the first solenoid valve, by manually operating the control unit.

[0014] In one embodiment, the control unit may open the first solenoid valve in response to the motor's rotational speed being equal to or greater than a set rotational speed threshold. With this configuration, the first solenoid valve opens only after the air velocity in the air supply pipe has risen sufficiently, allowing the liquid discharged from the liquid nozzle to be properly atomized into a mist.

[0015] In one embodiment, the control unit may open the first solenoid valve in response to the engine speed being equal to or greater than a set speed threshold. With this configuration, the first solenoid valve opens only after the air velocity in the air supply pipe has risen sufficiently, allowing the liquid discharged from the liquid nozzle to be properly atomized into a mist.

[0016] In one embodiment, the mist blower may further include an air velocity sensor. The air velocity sensor may be located in the air supply pipe and detect the air velocity in the air supply pipe. The control unit may open the first solenoid valve depending on whether the air velocity detected by the air velocity sensor is equal to or greater than a set air velocity threshold.

[0017] With this configuration, the first solenoid valve opens only after the air velocity in the air supply pipe has risen sufficiently, allowing the liquid discharged from the liquid nozzle to be properly atomized into a mist.

[0018] In one embodiment, the control unit may open the first solenoid valve if the elapsed time since the operating unit was displaced to the ON position is greater than or equal to a set time threshold.

[0019] With this configuration, the first solenoid valve opens only after the air velocity in the air supply pipe has sufficiently increased as the motor speed increases. As a result, the liquid discharged from the liquid nozzle can be properly atomized into a mist.

[0020] In one embodiment, the control unit may detect an abnormal state of the control unit. In response to detecting an abnormal state, the control unit may close the first solenoid valve. The control unit can be protected by closing the first solenoid valve in response to the detection of an abnormality in the control unit.

[0021] In one embodiment, if the control unit detects an abnormal condition when the operating unit is in the ON position, it may maintain the first solenoid valve in a closed state until the operating unit returns from the ON position to the OFF position and then back to the ON position.

[0022] If an abnormal condition is detected in the control unit, the first solenoid valve is kept closed until the operating unit is displaced from the off position to the on position. This prevents the spraying of liquid unintentionally by the user.

[0023] In one embodiment, the mist blower may further include a liquid volume setting unit. The liquid volume setting unit may be manually operated by the user to set the amount of liquid to be discharged from the liquid nozzle, and the set amount may be commanded to the control unit. The control unit may control the opening degree of the first solenoid valve according to the amount of liquid commanded by the liquid volume setting unit.

[0024] In one embodiment, the mist blower is equipped with a liquid volume setting unit, which controls the opening degree of the first solenoid valve according to the commanded liquid volume. This allows the amount of liquid sprayed to be adjusted to a volume set by the user.

[0025] In one embodiment, the mist blower may further include a flow sensor. The flow sensor may be provided in the liquid delivery pipe and detect the flow rate of the liquid flowing through the liquid delivery pipe. In one embodiment, the mist blower is equipped with a flow sensor, which allows for the detection of the flow rate of the liquid flowing through the liquid delivery pipe.

[0026] In one embodiment, the mist blower may further include a second solenoid valve. The second solenoid valve may be provided in the liquid delivery pipe and may open and close a flow path within the liquid delivery pipe. In one embodiment, the mist blower is equipped with a second solenoid valve, which prevents liquid from leaking from the air duct when the motor stops, even if the first solenoid valve fails.

[0027] In one embodiment, the control unit may close the second solenoid valve when the operating unit is in the off position, depending on whether the flow rate detected by the flow sensor is equal to or greater than the liquid volume threshold. If the control unit is in the off position and the flow rate is above the liquid level threshold, there is a possibility that a malfunction has occurred in the first solenoid valve and the flow path has not been closed by the first solenoid valve. Therefore, in such cases, the second solenoid valve is closed. This prevents liquid from leaking out of the air duct when the motor is stopped.

[0028] In one embodiment, the control unit may close the first solenoid valve and / or the second solenoid valve when the operating unit is in the ON position, depending on whether the flow rate detected by the flow sensor is less than the liquid volume threshold.

[0029] If the control unit is in the ON position and the flow rate is below the liquid level threshold, a malfunction may have occurred in the first solenoid valve, resulting in insufficient opening of the first solenoid valve. Therefore, in such cases, the first solenoid valve and / or the second solenoid valve will be closed. This protects the mist blower.

[0030] In one embodiment, the mist blower may further include a mechanical valve. The mechanical valve may be provided in the liquid delivery pipe and may open and close a flow path within the liquid delivery pipe. In one embodiment, the mist blower is equipped with a mechanical valve, which prevents liquid from leaking out of the air duct even if the mist blower is placed on its side or upside down.

[0031] In one embodiment, the mechanical valve may be located downstream of the first solenoid valve in the liquid delivery pipe. With this configuration, the first solenoid valve is positioned closer to the mist blower body than the mechanical valve. This allows for shorter wiring to power the first solenoid valve.

[0032] In one embodiment, the mechanical valve may be located upstream of the first solenoid valve in the liquid delivery pipe. With this configuration, the liquid flow path is closed by the first solenoid valve near the outlet, reducing the amount of fluid remaining in the liquid supply pipe between the first solenoid valve and the outlet. Therefore, if the user forgets to close the mechanical valve, the amount of liquid leakage can be further reduced.

[0033] An electric mist blower in one embodiment comprises a connector, a blower unit, a tank, a blower pipe, a liquid supply pipe, a first solenoid valve, and / or a control device. The connector is configured to be connected to a battery. The blower unit has an impeller, a motor configured to rotate the impeller by receiving power from the battery connected to the connector, and a nozzle configured to blow out air by driving the impeller. The tank has a body configured to contain liquid, and a liquid outlet provided in the body and configured to discharge the liquid contained in the body. The blower pipe is configured to be connected in communication with the nozzle. The liquid supply pipe has an inlet configured to be connected in communication with the liquid outlet, and an outlet configured to be connected to the inside of the blower pipe. The first solenoid valve is provided in the liquid supply pipe and is configured to open and close a flow path within the liquid supply pipe. The control device is configured to control the first solenoid valve in accordance with a control signal that controls the motor.

[0034] In one embodiment, the electric mist blower includes a first solenoid valve provided in the liquid supply pipe. The first solenoid valve is controlled according to the control signal of the motor included in the blower unit. Therefore, the first solenoid valve opens and closes in conjunction with the operation of the motor. Consequently, leakage of liquid from the air supply pipe can be suppressed when the motor stops.

[0035] An electric mist blower in one embodiment may further include an operating unit. The operating unit may be displaced between an off position and an on position by manual operation, commanding the control device to stop the motor in the off position and commanding the control device to drive the motor in the on position. The control device may open a first solenoid valve in response to the operating unit being displaced from the off position to the on position. The control device may close the first solenoid valve in response to the operating unit being displaced from the on position to the off position.

[0036] In one embodiment, when the electric mist blower is equipped with an operating unit, the first solenoid valve opens when the command to the motor from the operating unit changes from stop to drive. The first solenoid valve closes when the command to the motor from the operating unit changes from drive to stop. The user can control the drive and stop of the motor, as well as the opening and closing of the first solenoid valve, by manually operating the operating unit.

[0037] In one embodiment, the control device may open the first solenoid valve in response to the motor's rotational speed being equal to or greater than a predetermined rotational speed. When the motor rotation speed is relatively low, the amount of air discharged from the air duct is relatively small. When the amount of air discharged from the air duct is relatively small, the liquid discharged from the air duct may not become a mist. When the motor rotation speed is above a predetermined rotation speed, the first solenoid valve is opened, allowing the liquid to be properly dispersed as a mist from the air duct.

[0038] In one embodiment, the control device may detect an abnormal state of the control device. Furthermore, the control device may close the first solenoid valve in response to detecting an abnormal state. The control device can be protected by closing the first solenoid valve in response to the detection of an abnormal condition.

[0039] In one embodiment, if the control device detects an abnormal condition when the operating unit is in the ON position, it may maintain the first solenoid valve in a closed state until the operating unit returns from the ON position to the OFF position and then back to the ON position. If an abnormal condition is detected, the first solenoid valve is kept closed until the control unit is displaced from the off position to the on position, thereby preventing unintended liquid spraying by the user.

[0040] An electric mist blower according to one embodiment may further include a liquid volume setting unit. The liquid volume setting unit is manually operated to set the amount of liquid flowing out of the outlet and may command a control device to set the liquid volume. The control device may control the opening degree of the first solenoid valve according to the liquid volume commanded by the liquid volume setting unit.

[0041] In one embodiment of the electric mist blower, if it is equipped with a liquid volume setting unit, the opening degree of the first solenoid valve is controlled according to the commanded liquid volume. This allows the amount of liquid sprayed to be adjusted to the amount set by the user.

[0042] An electric mist blower in one embodiment may further include a flow sensor. The flow sensor may be provided in the liquid delivery pipe and detect the flow rate of the liquid flowing through the liquid delivery pipe. If an electric mist blower is equipped with a flow sensor, it can detect the flow rate of the liquid flowing through the liquid delivery pipe.

[0043] An electric mist blower in one embodiment may further include a second solenoid valve. The second solenoid valve may be provided in the liquid delivery pipe and may open and close a flow path within the liquid delivery pipe. In one embodiment, if the electric mist blower is equipped with a second solenoid valve, even if the first solenoid valve fails, leakage of liquid from the air supply pipe can be suppressed when the motor stops.

[0044] In one embodiment, the control device may close the second solenoid valve when the operating unit is in the off position and the flow rate detected by the flow sensor is equal to or greater than the liquid volume threshold. If the flow rate is above the liquid level threshold when the control unit is in the off position, a malfunction may have occurred in the first solenoid valve, and the flow path may not have been closed by the first solenoid valve. Therefore, the second solenoid valve will be closed. This will prevent liquid from leaking out of the air duct when the motor is stopped.

[0045] In one embodiment, the control device may close the first solenoid valve and / or the second solenoid valve when the operating unit is in the ON position and the flow rate detected by the flow sensor is less than the liquid volume threshold. If the flow rate is below the liquid level threshold when the control unit is in the ON position, a malfunction may have occurred in the first solenoid valve, resulting in insufficient opening of the first solenoid valve. Therefore, the first solenoid valve and / or the second solenoid valve will be closed. This protects the electric mist blower.

[0046] An electric mist blower in one embodiment may further include a mechanical valve. The mechanical valve may be provided in the liquid delivery pipe and may open and close a flow path within the liquid delivery pipe. If the electric mist blower is equipped with a mechanical valve, it is possible to prevent liquid from leaking out of the air duct even if the electric mist blower is placed on its side or upside down.

[0047] In one embodiment, the mechanical valve may be located downstream of the first solenoid valve in the liquid delivery pipe. With this configuration, the first solenoid valve is located closer to the body of the electric mist blower than the mechanical valve. This allows for shorter wiring to power the first solenoid valve.

[0048] In one embodiment, the mechanical valve may be located upstream of the first solenoid valve in the liquid delivery pipe. With this configuration, if the first solenoid valve is located downstream of the mechanical valve, the liquid flow path is closed near the outlet, thus reducing the amount of fluid remaining in the liquid supply pipe between the first solenoid valve and the outlet. Therefore, if the user forgets to close the mechanical valve, the amount of liquid leakage can be further reduced.

[0049] Embodiments of this disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings. (1. First Embodiment) <1-1. Structure> <1-1-1. Overall Structure> The overall configuration of the mist blower 100 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 3. The mist blower 100 is an electric work machine that sprays liquid. Specifically, the liquid is a chemical solution (for example, a pesticide). The mist blower 100 is used, for example, in an orchard for spraying pesticides.

[0050] The mist blower 100 includes a liquid tank 10. The liquid tank 10 is formed in a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape and contains liquid. The liquid tank 10 is equipped with a lid 11. The lid 11 closes an opening on the top surface of the liquid tank 10 for pouring in liquid. The liquid tank 10 is equipped with a liquid outlet 12 on its bottom surface for discharging the contained liquid. Since the bottom surface of the liquid tank 10 is covered by a storage section 20, which will be described later, the liquid outlet 12 is not shown in the external appearance of the mist blower 100 shown in Figure 1.

[0051] The mist blower 100 includes a housing section 20. The housing section 20 is formed in a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape and houses one or more batteries. In this embodiment, the housing section 20 houses the first battery 200A and the second battery 200B, which will be described later. The upper surface of the housing section 20 is in contact with the bottom surface of the liquid tank 10. That is, the housing section 20 is located below the liquid tank 10. The housing section 20 includes a connection section 220 inside (see Figure 4). The connection section 220 includes one or more connection ports. In this embodiment, the connection section 220 includes a first connection port 220A and a second connection port 220B. The first connection port 220A is connected to the first battery 200A. The second connection port 220B is connected to the second battery 200B. In this embodiment, the stacking direction of the liquid tank 10 and the housing section 20 is the vertical direction, with the liquid tank 10 side at the top and the housing section 20 side at the bottom. Furthermore, the two directions perpendicular to the vertical direction are defined as the left-right direction and the front-back direction.

[0052] The first battery 200A and the second battery 200B are rechargeable secondary batteries with the same rated voltage, such as lithium-ion batteries. The first battery 200A determines whether it is in a dischargeable state and outputs a discharge permission signal or a discharge prohibition signal to the main control unit (MCU) 71 of the control device 70A, which will be described later, based on the determination result. Similarly, the second battery 200B determines whether it is in a dischargeable state and outputs a discharge permission signal or a discharge prohibition signal to the MCU 71 based on the determination result.

[0053] The mist blower 100 includes a blower unit 30. The blower unit 30 includes a housing 31 formed in a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape. The upper surface of the housing 31 is in contact with the lower surface of the housing 20. That is, the housing 31 is located below the housing 20. The blower unit 30 also includes an impeller 33 housed in the housing 31. The impeller 33 is a fan capable of generating airflow, such as an axial flow fan, centrifugal fan, mixed flow fan, closed fan, or sirocco fan. The blower unit 30 also includes a motor 35 (see Figure 4). The motor 35 is housed in the housing 31. The motor 35 receives power from the first battery 200A or the second battery 200B to rotate the impeller 33. Furthermore, an outlet 36 for blowing out compressed air generated by the rotation of the impeller 33 is provided on the right side of the blower unit 30 in the left-right direction. In this embodiment, the blower unit 30 corresponds to an example of the blower of this disclosure.

[0054] The mist blower 100 is equipped with a blower pipe 40. The blower pipe 40 is cylindrical in shape and includes a discharge port 45 and a connection port 46. The connection port 46 is connected to communicate with the air outlet 36.

[0055] A grip 41 is attached to the air blower pipe 40. The grip 41 has an airflow adjustment panel on its rear side, which includes an airflow adjustment button and an airflow indicator light-emitting diode (hereinafter referred to as LED). The airflow adjustment button is manually operated by the user to set the airflow. The airflow adjustment button is movable to multiple airflow setting values. The airflow is set in stages according to the airflow setting value set by the airflow adjustment button. The airflow indicator LED displays the set airflow setting value. In this embodiment, the user can set the airflow in three stages via the airflow adjustment panel.

[0056] The grip 41 is equipped with a trigger 42 on its front. The trigger 42 is manually operated by the user to drive or stop the motor 35. The trigger 42 is displaced between an off position and an on position by manual operation. The on position corresponds to the position when the user pulls the trigger 42, and the off position corresponds to the position when the user releases the trigger 42. In the on position, the trigger 42 outputs a drive command signal to the MCU 71 and the latch circuit 88 to command the motor 35 to drive. Also in the on position, the trigger 42 commands the MCU 71 to open the solenoid valve 66, which will be described later. In the off position, the trigger 42 outputs a stop command signal to the MCU 71 and the latch circuit 88 to command the motor 35 to stop. Also in the off position, the trigger 42 commands the MCU 71 to close the solenoid valve 66. In this embodiment, the trigger 42 corresponds to an example of an operating unit.

[0057] The mist blower 100 is equipped with a liquid supply pipe 60. The liquid supply pipe 60 is formed in a narrow cylindrical shape and is equipped with an inlet 61 and an outlet 62. The inlet 61 is connected to the liquid outlet 12. The outlet 62 is at the tip of the air supply pipe 40 and is connected to the inside of the air supply pipe 40.

[0058] The mist blower 100 is equipped with a mechanical liquid volume adjustment unit 44. The liquid supply pipe 60 is fixed to the blower pipe 40 at its tip, and the outlet 62 is inserted into the inside of the blower pipe 40 from the position of the mechanical liquid volume adjustment unit 44. The outlet 62 is connected to a liquid nozzle 63 provided inside the blower pipe 40. The liquid nozzle 63 has a discharge hole at its tip. The diameter of the discharge hole is sufficiently smaller than the diameter of the blower pipe 40. The liquid nozzle 63 is located downstream of the impeller 33 inside the blower pipe 40.

[0059] The opening of the mechanical liquid volume adjustment unit 44 is changed by manual operation. The amount of liquid flowing into the air supply pipe 40, and consequently the amount of liquid sprayed from the mist blower 100, is adjusted according to the opening of the mechanical liquid volume adjustment unit 44. When the mist blower 100 is not in use or is being stored, the user closes the mechanical liquid volume adjustment unit 44 to block the flow of liquid from the liquid supply pipe 60 to the air supply pipe 40.

[0060] The mist blower 100 is equipped with a solenoid valve 66. The solenoid valve 66 is installed in the liquid supply pipe 60 and opens and closes the flow path within the liquid supply pipe 60. The solenoid valve 66 is driven by an electrical signal. When energized, the solenoid valve 66 opens to open the flow path, and when de-energized, it closes to close the flow path.

[0061] The mist blower 100 is equipped with a mechanical valve 65. The mechanical valve 65 is installed in the liquid supply pipe 60 and opens and closes the flow path within the liquid supply pipe 60. In this embodiment, the mechanical valve 65 is installed downstream of the solenoid valve 66 in the liquid supply pipe 60. The mechanical valve 65 is opened and closed by manual operation by the user. When the mechanical valve 65 is opened, it opens the flow path, and when it is closed, it closes the flow path.

[0062] By closing the mechanical valve 65, it is possible to prevent liquid from leaking from the air supply pipe 40 even if the mist blower 100 is placed on its side or upside down. Furthermore, if a solenoid valve 66 is provided in the liquid supply pipe 60, a mechanical valve 65 is not necessarily required.

[0063] The mist blower 100 may not have a mechanical liquid volume adjustment unit 44, and the mechanical valve 65 may be configured to allow manual adjustment of its opening. In this case, the amount of liquid discharged from the air supply pipe 40 can be adjusted while reducing the number of components compared to when the mist blower 100 is equipped with a mechanical liquid volume adjustment unit 44.

[0064] Furthermore, the mist blower 100 may not have a mechanical liquid volume adjustment unit 44, and the solenoid valve 66 may be configured to allow adjustment of its opening degree. In this case, the amount of liquid discharged from the air supply pipe 40 can be adjusted while reducing the number of components compared to the case where a mechanical liquid volume adjustment unit 44 is provided. Details of the solenoid valve 66 with adjustable opening degree will be described later (see the fourth embodiment).

[0065] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the liquid tank 10 is positioned above the air supply pipe 40. Therefore, atmospheric pressure acts on the liquid in the liquid tank 10, causing it to flow towards the air supply pipe 40. Also, the impeller 33 rotates, generating airflow in the air supply pipe 40. As the rotational speed of the impeller 33 increases, the air compressed by the impeller 33 enters the liquid nozzle 63 at high speed, is constricted at the discharge port of the liquid nozzle 63, and is discharged. At this time, negative pressure is applied to the liquid nozzle 63, drawing the liquid up from the liquid supply pipe 60. The liquid nozzle 63 receives liquid from the liquid tank 10 via the liquid supply pipe 60 due to atmospheric pressure and negative pressure, and discharges the liquid from the discharge port. Therefore, when the solenoid valve 66 and the mechanical valve 65 are opened and the motor 35 is driven, the liquid is drawn into the liquid nozzle 63 by atmospheric pressure and negative pressure. The liquid drawn into the liquid nozzle 63 is atomized by the air flowing through the air supply pipe 40 and sprayed from the discharge port 45.

[0066] The mist blower 100 is equipped with a pair of shoulder straps 50A and 50B on its front in the front-to-back direction. The upper ends of the pair of shoulder straps 50A and 50B are attached to the front of the liquid tank 10. The lower ends of the pair of shoulder straps 50A and 50B are attached to the front of the housing 31. The user can carry the mist blower 100 on their back by placing the pair of shoulder straps 50A and 50B over their shoulders. When the user carries the mist blower 100 on their back, the air vent 40 is positioned to the user's right side.

[0067] <1-1-2. Electrical Configuration> Next, the electrical configuration of the mist blower 100 will be explained with reference to Figure 4. The mist blower 100 is equipped with a motor 35. The motor 35 is a three-phase brushless motor. The mist blower 100 is equipped with a position sensor 91. The position sensor 91 detects the position of the rotor of the motor 35 and outputs a position signal indicating the detected position to the MCU 71.

[0068] The mist blower 100 includes a control device 70A. The control device 70A is housed in the housing 20. In this embodiment, the control device 70A is an example of the control unit of the present disclosure. The control device 70A includes a first battery switch 210A. The first battery switch 210A is connected to the connection section 220. Specifically, the first battery switch 210A is connected to the first connection port 220A. The control device 70A also includes a second battery switch 210B. The second battery switch 210B is connected to the connection section 220. Specifically, the second battery switch 210B is connected to the second connection port 220B.

[0069] The first battery switch 210A and the second battery switch 210B are controlled by the MCU 71. When either the first battery switch 210A or the second battery switch 210B is on, the other is off. The first battery switch 210A and the second battery switch 210B are off simultaneously, but they are not on simultaneously. Therefore, the first battery 200A and the second battery 200B discharge from only one at a time, and do not discharge simultaneously.

[0070] The control device 70A is equipped with a power line 250. A first battery switch 210A is connected to the power line 250. A second battery switch 210B is also connected in parallel to the power line 250 with respect to the first battery switch 210A. When the first battery switch 210A is ON, the power line 250 receives power from the first battery 200A, and when the second battery switch 210B is ON, it receives power from the second battery 200B.

[0071] The control device 70A includes a motor drive circuit 72. The motor drive circuit 72 is connected to the power line 250 and the motor 35. The motor drive circuit 72 is a three-phase full-bridge circuit with three switches on the high side and three switches on the low side. The on and off states of each switch in the motor drive circuit 72 are controlled by the MCU 71. The motor drive circuit 72 receives power from the first battery 200A or the second battery 200B via the power line 250 and supplies current to the motor 35.

[0072] The control device 70A includes a first temperature detection circuit 73. The first temperature detection circuit 73 is located near the motor drive circuit 72 and detects the temperature T1 of the motor drive circuit 72, outputting the temperature T1 to the MCU 71 and the latch circuit 88.

[0073] The control device 70A includes a first current detection circuit 74. The first current detection circuit 74 detects the value of the current (hereinafter referred to as the current value) I1 flowing through the motor drive circuit 72 and outputs the current value I1 to the MCU 71 and the latch circuit 88.

[0074] The control device 70A includes a first signal line 260 connecting the MCU 71 and the motor drive circuit 72. The control device 70A also includes a first switch 78. The first switch 78 is located on the first signal line 260. The on and off states of the first switch 78 are controlled by the MCU 71 and a latch circuit 88, which will be described later.

[0075] The control device 70A includes a solenoid drive circuit 75, and the solenoid valve 66 includes a solenoid 66a. The solenoid 66a includes a plunger (specifically an iron piece) and an excitation coil (not shown). The solenoid drive circuit 75 is controlled by the MCU 71 to supply current to the excitation coil. When current flows through the excitation coil of the solenoid 66a, the excitation coil attracts the plunger. When the current flowing through the excitation coil of the solenoid 66a is interrupted, the excitation coil releases the plunger. The state in which the excitation coil of the solenoid 66a attracts the plunger corresponds to the state in which the solenoid valve 66 is open. The state in which the excitation coil of the solenoid 66a releases the plunger corresponds to the state in which the solenoid valve 66 is closed.

[0076] The control device 70A includes a second temperature detection circuit 76. The second temperature detection circuit 76 is located near the solenoid drive circuit 75 and detects the temperature T2 of the solenoid drive circuit 75, outputting the temperature T2 to the MCU 71 and the latch circuit 88.

[0077] The control device 70A includes a second current detection circuit 77. The second current detection circuit 77 detects the current value I2 flowing through the solenoid drive circuit 75 and outputs the current value I2 to the MCU 71 and the latch circuit 88.

[0078] The control device 70A includes a second signal line 270 connecting the MCU 71 and the solenoid drive circuit 75. The control device 70A also includes a second switch 79. The second switch 79 is located on the second signal line 270. The on and off states of the second switch 79 are controlled by the MCU 71 and a latch circuit 88, which will be described later.

[0079] The control device 70A includes an MCU 71. The MCU 71 includes a CPU 71a and a memory 71b. The MCU 71 performs various functions by having the CPU 71a execute various programs stored in the memory 71b.

[0080] The MCU71 selects either the first battery 200A or the second battery 200B based on the discharge permission signal or discharge prohibition signal obtained from each of the first and second batteries 200B. The MCU71 turns on the switch corresponding to the selected battery among the first battery switch 210A and the second battery switch 210B, and turns off the switch corresponding to the unselected battery.

[0081] The MCU 71 generates a solenoid control signal and outputs the generated solenoid control signal to the solenoid drive circuit 75. The solenoid control signal includes a solenoid energizing signal to energize the solenoid 66a and a solenoid de-energizing signal to de-energize the solenoid 66a.

[0082] The MCU 71 generates a motor control signal to drive or stop the motor 35 based on a drive command signal or stop command signal, a position signal, a discharge permission signal or a discharge prohibition signal, temperatures T1 and T2, and current values ​​I1 and I2, and outputs the generated motor control signal to the motor drive circuit 72. The motor control signal includes a motor drive signal to drive the motor 35 and a motor stop signal to stop the motor 35.

[0083] The MCU 71 controls the solenoid valve 66 based on the motor control signal. Specifically, the MCU 71 links the opening and closing of the solenoid valve 66 with the driving and stopping of the motor 35. When a drive command signal is input from the trigger 42, the MCU 71 drives the motor 35 to open the solenoid valve 66. When a stop command signal is input from the trigger 42, the MCU 71 stops the motor 35 to close the solenoid valve 66. More specifically, the MCU 71 generates a solenoid control signal in response to the motor control signal and outputs the generated solenoid control signal to the solenoid drive circuit 75.

[0084] The control device 70A includes a latch circuit 88. The latch circuit 88 detects an abnormal state of the control device 70A based on temperatures T1, T2 and current values ​​I1, I2, and turns off the first switch 78 and the second switch 79 when an abnormal state is detected. The latch circuit 88 also turns off the first switch 78 and the second switch 79 when a discharge prohibition signal is input. When the latch circuit 88 turns off the first switch 78 and the second switch 79, it maintains the off state of the first switch 78 and the second switch 79 until a predetermined condition is met, at which point it turns on the first switch 78 and the second switch 79. The predetermined condition is that, when the abnormal state of the control device 70A has been resolved, the command signal input from the trigger 42 becomes a stop command signal, and then the command signal changes to a drive command signal.

[0085] <1-2. Processing> <1-2-1. Control Processing for Motors and Solenoids> Next, the motor and solenoid control processing performed by the MCU71 will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 5. When the MCU71 is powered on, it starts this control processing. When the user starts using the mist blower 100, the mechanical valve 65 is first opened, so the mechanical valve 65 is open when the MCU71 starts this control processing.

[0086] In S10, it is determined whether the trigger 42 is in the ON position or not. That is, it is determined whether the command signal input from the trigger 42 is a drive command signal or not. If it is determined that the trigger 42 is in the ON position (S10: YES), the process proceeds to S20. If it is determined that the trigger 42 is in the OFF position (S10: NO), the process of S10 is repeatedly executed until it is determined that the trigger 42 is in the ON position.

[0087] Next, in S20, it is determined whether the error flag is set to off. The error flag is set to on when an abnormal condition of the control device 70A is detected based on the temperatures T1, T2 and current values ​​I1, I2, and is set to off when no abnormal condition is detected. The abnormal condition detection process will be described later.

[0088] If it is determined that the error flag is set to off (S20:YES), proceed to process S30; if it is determined that the error flag is set to on (S20:NO), return to process S10.

[0089] In S30, the motor 35 is driven and the solenoid 66a is energized. That is, the first switch 78 is turned on and a motor drive signal is output to the motor drive circuit 72. Also, the second switch 79 is turned on and a solenoid energization signal is output to the solenoid drive circuit 75.

[0090] Next, in S40, it is determined whether the trigger 42 is in the ON position or not. If it is determined that the trigger 42 is in the OFF position (S40: NO), the process proceeds to S50. If it is determined that the trigger 42 is in the ON position (S40: YES), the process proceeds to S60.

[0091] In S50, the motor 35 is stopped and the solenoid 66a is de-energized. That is, the first switch 78 and the second switch 79 are turned off. In addition / or, a motor stop signal is output to the motor drive circuit 72 and a solenoid de-energized signal is output to the solenoid drive circuit 75. After processing in S50, the process returns to S10.

[0092] In S60, it is determined whether the error flag is set to off or not. If it is determined that the error flag is set to off (S60:YES), the process returns to S40. If it is determined that the error flag is set to on (S60:NO), the process proceeds to S70.

[0093] In S70, the same process as in S50 is executed. After the processing in S70, the process proceeds to S80. In S80, it is determined whether the trigger 42 is in the off position or not. That is, it is determined whether the command signal input from the trigger 42 is a stop command signal or not. If it is determined that the trigger 42 is in the off position (S80: YES), the process returns to S10. If it is determined that the trigger 42 is in the on position (S80: NO), the process of S80 is repeatedly executed until it is determined that the trigger 42 is in the off position.

[0094] As a result, if the error flag is turned on, the motor 35 and solenoid 65a will not be driven again unless the user intentionally moves the trigger 42 from the ON position to the ON position. In other words, even if the error flag changes from ON to OFF while the trigger 42 is in the ON position, the sudden restart of the motor 35 and solenoid 65a is avoided.

[0095] <1-2-2. Anomaly Detection Processing> Next, the abnormality detection process performed by the MCU71 will be explained using the flowcharts in Figures 6 and 7. In this embodiment, the abnormality detection process includes temperature abnormality detection and current abnormality detection. When the MCU71 starts up, it performs the temperature abnormality detection and current abnormality detection processes in parallel with the motor and solenoid control processes.

[0096] First, the temperature anomaly detection process will be explained with reference to Figure 6. In S100, the temperature T is acquired. In this embodiment, the temperature T1 detected by the first temperature detection circuit 73 and the temperature T2 detected by the second temperature detection circuit 76 are acquired as the temperature T.

[0097] Next, in S110, it is determined whether the temperature T is above or below the temperature threshold. The temperature threshold is, for example, 100°C. If it is determined that either temperature T1 or T2 is above or below the temperature threshold (S110: YES), the process proceeds to S120. If it is determined that both temperatures T1 and T2 are below the temperature threshold (S110: NO), the process proceeds to S130.

[0098] In S120, the error flag is set to ON, and the process returns to S100. In S130, the error flag is set to off, and the process returns to S100. Next, the current anomaly detection process will be explained with reference to Figure 7.

[0099] In S200, the current value I is acquired. In this embodiment, the current value I is obtained from the current value I1 detected by the first current detection circuit 74 and the current value I2 detected by the second current detection circuit 77.

[0100] Next, in S210, it is determined whether the current value I is equal to or greater than the current threshold. The current threshold is, for example, 100A. If it is determined that either current value I1 or I2 is equal to or greater than the current threshold (S210:YES), the process proceeds to S220. If it is determined that both current values ​​I1 and I2 are less than the current threshold (S210:NO), the process proceeds to S230.

[0101] In S220, the error flag is set to ON, and the process returns to S200. In S230, the error flag is set to off, and the process returns to S200.

[0102] <1-3. Effects> The first embodiment described in detail above provides the following effects. (1) The mist blower 100 is equipped with a solenoid valve 66 provided in the liquid supply pipe 60. The solenoid valve 66 is controlled according to the control signal of the motor 35. Therefore, the solenoid valve 66 opens and closes in conjunction with the operation of the motor 35. Consequently, when the motor 35 stops, leakage of liquid from the air supply pipe 40 can be suppressed.

[0103] (2) When the command signal to the motor 35 from the trigger 42 changes from stop to drive, the solenoid valve 66 opens. When the command signal to the motor 35 from the trigger 42 changes from drive to stop, the solenoid valve 66 closes. The user can control the drive and stop of the motor 35, as well as the opening and closing of the solenoid valve 66, by manually operating the trigger 42.

[0104] (3) When an abnormal condition is detected in the control device 70A, the solenoid valve 66 is closed. This protects the control device 70A. (4) If an abnormal condition is detected, the solenoid valve 66 is kept closed until the trigger 42 is moved from the off position to the on position. This prevents the spraying of liquid unintentionally by the user.

[0105] (5) If a mechanical valve 65 is provided in the liquid supply pipe 60, even if the mist blower 100 is placed on its side or upside down, leakage of liquid from the air supply pipe 40 can be suppressed.

[0106] (6) If a mechanical valve 65 is provided in the liquid supply pipe 60, the solenoid valve 66 is positioned upstream of the mechanical valve 65 in the liquid supply pipe 60, i.e., closer to the control device 70A. Therefore, the wiring of the solenoid valve 66 to the solenoid 66a can be shortened.

[0107] (7) If a mechanical liquid volume adjustment unit 44 is provided in the liquid supply pipe 60, the user can adjust the amount of liquid discharged from the air supply pipe 40 by manually adjusting the opening of the mechanical liquid volume adjustment unit 44.

[0108] (2. Second Embodiment) <2-1. Differences from the First Embodiment> The second embodiment has the same basic configuration as the first embodiment, so the differences will be explained below. Note that the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment indicate the same components, and refer to the preceding description.

[0109] In the first embodiment described above, the motor and solenoid control processes were executed based on the flowchart shown in Figure 5. In contrast, the second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the motor control process is executed based on the flowchart shown in Figure 8, and the solenoid control process is executed based on the flowchart shown in Figure 9.

[0110] <2-2. Processing> <2-2-1. Motor Control Processing> Next, the motor control processing performed by the MCU71 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart in Figure 8. When the MCU71 according to this embodiment is started up, it performs the motor control processing shown in Figure 8 in parallel with the solenoid control processing shown in Figure 9, the temperature abnormality detection processing shown in Figure 6, and the current abnormality detection processing shown in Figure 7.

[0111] In S600-S610, the same processing as in S10 and S20 is performed. Next, in S620, the motor 35 is driven. That is, the first switch 78 is turned on, and a motor drive signal is output to the motor drive circuit 72. In this embodiment, the solenoid 66a is not energized at this point.

[0112] Next, in S630, the same process as in S40 is performed. If it is determined that trigger 43 is in the off position (S630: NO), the process proceeds to S640. If it is determined that trigger 42 is in the on position (S630: YES), the process proceeds to S650.

[0113] In S640, the motor 35 is stopped; that is, the first switch 78 is turned off. In addition, / or, a motor stop signal is output to the motor drive circuit 72. In S650, it is determined whether the error flag is set to off or not. If it is determined that the error flag is set to off (S650:YES), the process returns to S630; if it is determined that the error flag is set to on (S650:NO), the process proceeds to S660.

[0114] S660 performs the same processing as S640. After processing in S660, the process proceeds to S670. S670 performs the same processing as S80.

[0115] <2-2-2. Solenoid Control Processing> Next, the solenoid control process performed by the MCU71 according to this embodiment will be explained with reference to the flowchart in Figure 9.

[0116] In S300, it is determined whether trigger 42 is in the ON position or not. If it is determined that trigger 42 is in the ON position (S10: YES), the process proceeds to S305. If it is determined that trigger 42 is in the OFF position (S10: NO), the process of S300 is repeatedly executed until it is determined that trigger 42 is in the ON position.

[0117] In step S305, the current rotational speed R of the motor 35 is calculated based on the position signal detected by the position sensor 91. Next, in S310, it is determined whether the motor 35 is in operation, that is, whether it is outputting a motor drive signal to the motor drive circuit 72. If it is determined that the motor 35 is in operation (S310: YES), the process proceeds to S320. If it is determined that the motor 35 is stopped (S310: NO), the process returns to S300.

[0118] In S320, it is determined whether the rotational speed R calculated in S305 is equal to or greater than a pre-set rotational speed threshold. The rotational speed threshold is, for example, 10000 / min (10,000 revolutions per minute). If it is determined that the rotational speed R is equal to or greater than the rotational speed threshold (S320: YES), the process proceeds to S330. If it is determined that the rotational speed R is less than the rotational speed threshold (S320: NO), the process returns to S300.

[0119] In S330, the solenoid 66a is energized. That is, the second switch 79 is turned on, and a solenoid energization signal is output to the solenoid drive circuit 75. In this embodiment, the motor 35 is not driven and the solenoid 66a is not energized at the same time. When the rotational speed R of the motor 35 is less than the rotational speed threshold, the velocity of the air flowing through the air supply pipe 40 is relatively small. At this time, even if liquid is discharged from the liquid nozzle 63, the liquid may not become a mist. Therefore, the solenoid 66a is driven only when the motor 35 is driven and the rotational speed R is equal to or greater than the rotational speed threshold.

[0120] Next, in S340, the current rotational speed R of the motor 35 is calculated based on the position signal detected by the position sensor 91. Next, in S350, it is determined whether the motor 35 is running, that is, whether it is outputting a motor drive signal to the motor drive circuit 72. If it is determined that the motor 35 is stopped (S350: NO), the process proceeds to S360. If it is determined that the motor 35 is running (S350: YES), the process proceeds to S370.

[0121] In S360, the solenoid 66a is de-energized, that is, the second switch 79 is turned off. In addition / or, a solenoid de-energized signal is output to the solenoid drive circuit 75. If the motor 35 stops, the solenoid 66a is immediately de-energized to stop the liquid discharge.

[0122] In S370, it is determined whether the rotational speed R calculated in S340 is equal to or greater than the rotational speed threshold. If it is determined that the rotational speed R is equal to or greater than the rotational speed threshold (S370: YES), the process returns to S340. If it is determined that the rotational speed R is less than the rotational speed threshold (S370: NO), the process proceeds to S380.

[0123] In S380, the same processing as in S360 is performed. In this embodiment, even while the motor 35 is running, if the rotational speed R falls below the rotational speed threshold, the solenoid 66a is de-energized to stop the discharge of the liquid. After the processing in S380, the process proceeds to S390. S390 performs the same processing as S80.

[0124] <2-3. Effects> The second embodiment described in detail above achieves the effects (1) to (7) of the first embodiment mentioned above, and further achieves the following effects.

[0125] (8) The solenoid valve 66 is opened when the rotational speed R of the motor 35 is equal to or greater than the rotational speed threshold. This allows the liquid to be properly sprayed in a mist form from the air supply pipe 40.

[0126] (3. Third Embodiment) <3-1. Differences from the First Embodiment> The third embodiment has the same basic configuration as the first embodiment, so the differences will be explained below. Note that the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment indicate the same components, and refer to the preceding description.

[0127] In the first embodiment described above, the solenoid valve 66 was installed upstream of the mechanical valve 65 in the liquid supply pipe 60. In contrast, as shown in Figure 10, the third embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the solenoid valve 66 is installed downstream of the mechanical valve 65 in the liquid supply pipe 60.

[0128] <3-2. Effects> According to the third embodiment described in detail above, the effects (1) to (5) and (7) of the first embodiment described above are achieved, and furthermore, the following effects are achieved.

[0129] (9) When the solenoid valve 66 is located downstream, the liquid flow path is closed at a position close to the outlet 62, so the amount of liquid remaining in the liquid supply pipe between the solenoid valve 66 and the outlet is reduced, and the amount of liquid leakage can be further reduced if the mechanical valve 65 is not closed.

[0130] (4. Fourth Embodiment) <4-1. Differences from the First Embodiment> The fourth embodiment has the same basic configuration as the first embodiment, so the differences will be explained below. Note that the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment indicate the same components, and refer to the preceding description.

[0131] In the first embodiment described above, the liquid supply pipe 60 was equipped with a mechanical valve 65 and a solenoid valve 66. In contrast, the fourth embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the liquid supply pipe 60 is equipped with a mechanical valve 65, a first solenoid valve 66, and a second solenoid valve 67.

[0132] Furthermore, in the fourth embodiment, the liquid delivery pipe 60 is equipped with a flow sensor 68. The fourth embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that, in addition to temperature abnormality detection processing and current abnormality detection processing, liquid volume abnormality detection processing is also performed.

[0133] Furthermore, in the first embodiment described above, a mechanical liquid volume adjustment unit 44 was provided in the liquid supply pipe 60. The fourth embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the mechanical liquid volume adjustment unit 44 is not provided, and instead a liquid volume adjustment dial 49 is provided.

[0134] <4-2. Structure> <4-2-1. General configuration> Figure 11 shows the airflow path and liquid flow path of the mist blower 100 according to the fourth embodiment. In this embodiment, the liquid supply pipe 60 is provided with a mechanical valve 65, a first solenoid valve 66, and a second solenoid valve 67. The first solenoid valve 66 corresponds to the solenoid valve 66 according to the first and second embodiments. The first solenoid valve 66 is equipped with the solenoid 66a according to the first and second embodiments as the first solenoid 66a. The second solenoid valve 67 has the same configuration as the first solenoid valve 66. The second solenoid valve 67 is normally open and is closed when a malfunction occurs in the first solenoid valve 66.

[0135] The second solenoid valve 67 is located downstream of the first solenoid valve 66. The mechanical valve 65 is located downstream of the second solenoid valve 67. Furthermore, a flow sensor 68 is provided in the liquid supply pipe 60 downstream of the mechanical valve 65. The flow sensor 68 detects the flow rate Q of the liquid flowing through the liquid supply pipe 60 and outputs a liquid volume signal indicating the detected liquid volume Q to the MCU 71.

[0136] <4-2-2. Electrical Configuration> Next, the electrical configuration of the mist blower 100 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 12. The mist blower 100 according to this embodiment includes a control device 70B instead of a control device 70A. The control device 70B includes the solenoid drive circuit 75 of the control device 70A as a first solenoid drive circuit 75. The mist blower 100 according to this embodiment further includes a liquid volume adjustment dial 49.

[0137] Control device 70B includes a second solenoid drive circuit 81 in addition to the configuration of control device 70A. The second solenoid valve 67 includes a second solenoid 67a. The second solenoid 67a includes a plunger (not shown) and an excitation coil. The second solenoid drive circuit 81 is controlled by the MCU 71 to supply current to the excitation coil of the second solenoid 67a. When current flows to the excitation coil of the second solenoid 67a, the excitation coil attracts the plunger. When the current flowing to the excitation coil of the second solenoid 67a is interrupted, the excitation coil releases the plunger. The state in which the excitation coil of the second solenoid 67a attracts the plunger corresponds to the state in which the second solenoid valve 67 is open. The state in which the excitation coil of the second solenoid 67a releases the plunger corresponds to the state in which the second solenoid valve 67 is closed.

[0138] The control device 70B includes a third temperature detection circuit 82. The third temperature detection circuit 82 is located near the second solenoid drive circuit 81 and detects the temperature T3 of the second solenoid drive circuit 81, outputting the temperature T3 to the MCU 71 and the latch circuit 88.

[0139] The control device 70B includes a third current detection circuit 83. The third current detection circuit 83 detects the current value I3 flowing through the second solenoid drive circuit 81 and outputs the current value I3 to the MCU 71 and the latch circuit 88.

[0140] The control device 70B includes a third signal line 280 connecting the MCU 71 and the second solenoid drive circuit 81. The control device 70A includes a third switch 84. The second switch 79 is located on the third signal line 280. The on and off states of the third switch 84 are controlled by the MCU 71 and a latch circuit 88, which will be described later.

[0141] The latch circuit 88 detects an abnormal condition in the control device 70B based on temperatures T1, T2, T3 and current values ​​I1, I2, I3, and if an abnormal condition is detected, it turns off the first switch 78, the second switch 79, and the third switch 84.

[0142] The control device 70B receives a liquid volume command signal via the liquid volume adjustment dial 49. The liquid volume adjustment dial 49 is located on the grip 41 and is manually operated by the user to set the amount of liquid to be sprayed. The liquid volume adjustment dial 49 is movable to multiple dial setting values. The liquid volume is set in steps according to the dial setting value to which the liquid volume adjustment dial 49 is located. In this embodiment, the user can set the liquid volume in five steps via the liquid volume adjustment dial 49. The liquid volume adjustment dial 49 outputs a liquid volume command signal to the MCU 71 according to the dial setting value to which the liquid volume adjustment dial 49 is located.

[0143] The MCU 71 controls the opening degree of the first solenoid valve 66 based on the fluid volume command signal input from the fluid volume adjustment dial 49. As shown in Figure 13, the opening degree of the first solenoid valve 66 is preset according to the dial setting value. The MCU 71 generates a solenoid control signal so that the opening degree of the first solenoid valve 66 corresponds to the fluid volume command signal, and outputs the generated solenoid control signal to the solenoid drive circuit 75.

[0144] <4-3. Processing> <4-3-1. Control Processing for Motors and Solenoids> The motor and solenoid control processing performed by the MCU71 according to this embodiment will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 14. When the MCU71 starts this control processing, the mechanical valve 65 is open.

[0145] In S400 and S410, the same processing as in S10 and S20 is performed. In S420, the motor 35 is driven, energizing the first solenoid 66a and the second solenoid 67a.

[0146] Next, in S430, it is determined whether the trigger 42 is in the ON position or not. If it is determined that the trigger 42 is in the ON position (S430: YES), the process proceeds to S450. If it is determined that the trigger 42 is in the OFF position (S430: NO), the process proceeds to S440.

[0147] In S440, the motor 35 is stopped. Also, the first solenoid 66a is de-energized and the second solenoid 67a is energized. That is, the first solenoid valve 66 is closed and the second solenoid valve 67 is opened. If the first solenoid valve 66 is operating normally, no liquid will flow through the liquid supply pipe 60 even if the second solenoid valve 67 is open. After the process in S440, the process returns to S400.

[0148] In S450, it is determined whether the error flag is set to off or not. If the error flag is set to off (S450: YES), the process returns to S430. If the error flag is set to on (S450: NO), the process proceeds to S460.

[0149] In S460, the motor 35 is stopped. Also, the first solenoid 66a and the second solenoid 67a are de-energized, and the first solenoid valve 66 and the second solenoid valve 67 are closed. If an abnormality is detected in temperature, current, or flow rate, the first solenoid valve 66 and the second solenoid valve 67 are closed to stop the liquid ejection. After the process in S460, the process proceeds to S470.

[0150] In S470, it is determined whether the trigger 42 is in the off position or not. If it is determined that the trigger 42 is in the off position (S470: YES), the process returns to S400. If it is determined that the trigger 42 is in the on position (S470: NO), the process of S470 is repeatedly executed until it is determined that the trigger 42 is in the off position.

[0151] <4-3-2. Anomaly Detection Processing> Next, the abnormality detection process performed by the MCU71 will be described. In this embodiment, the abnormality detection process includes temperature abnormality detection, current abnormality detection, and liquid volume abnormality detection. In the flowchart of Figure 7, the MCU71 performs temperature abnormality detection, with temperatures T1, T2, and T3 as temperature T. In the flowchart of Figure 8, the MCU71 performs current abnormality detection, with current values ​​I1, I2, and I3 as current values ​​I. In this embodiment, the MCU71 also performs flow rate abnormality detection. The flow rate abnormality detection process will be described below with reference to the flowchart shown in Figure 15.

[0152] In S500, the flow rate Q detected by the flow sensor 68 is acquired. Next, in S510, it is determined whether the flow rate Q obtained in S500 is equal to or greater than the liquid volume threshold. The liquid volume threshold is a threshold used to determine whether or not liquid is flowing through the liquid delivery pipe 60. If the liquid volume Q is equal to or greater than the liquid volume threshold (S510: YES), the process proceeds to S520. If the liquid volume Q is less than the liquid volume threshold (S510: NO), the process proceeds to S550.

[0153] In S520, it is determined whether the trigger 42 is in the off position. That is, it is determined whether a stop command signal is being input from the trigger 42. If it is determined that the trigger 42 is in the off position (S520: YES), the process proceeds to S530. If it is determined that the trigger 42 is in the on position (S520: NO), the process proceeds to S540.

[0154] In S530, the error flag is set to ON, and the process returns to S500. If the trigger 42 is in the OFF position, the first solenoid valve 66 should be closed, and no liquid should be flowing through the liquid supply pipe 60. Nevertheless, if the liquid volume Q is above the liquid volume threshold, there is a possibility that there is a malfunction in the first solenoid valve 66. Therefore, the error flag is set to ON. As a result, the second solenoid valve 67 is closed in the motor and solenoid control process.

[0155] In S540, the error flag is set to off, and the process returns to S500. In S550, it is determined whether the trigger 42 is in the ON position or not. That is, it is determined whether a drive command signal is being input from the trigger 42. If it is determined that the trigger 42 is in the ON position (S550: YES), the process proceeds to S560. If it is determined that the trigger 42 is in the OFF position (S550: NO), the process proceeds to S570.

[0156] In S560, the error flag is set to ON, and the process returns to S500. If the trigger 42 is in the ON position, the first solenoid valve 66 should be open, and liquid should be flowing through the liquid supply pipe 60. Nevertheless, if the liquid volume Q is below the liquid volume threshold, there may be a malfunction in the first solenoid valve 66. Therefore, the error flag is set to ON. As a result, in the motor and solenoid control process, the first solenoid valve 66 and the second solenoid valve 67 are closed. In S570, the error flag is set to off, and the process returns to S500.

[0157] <4-4. Effects> According to the fourth embodiment described in detail above, the effects (1) to (7) of the first embodiment described above are achieved, and furthermore, the following effects are achieved.

[0158] (10) If the mist blower 100 is equipped with a liquid volume adjustment dial 49, the opening degree of the first solenoid valve 66 is controlled according to the liquid volume commanded via the liquid volume adjustment dial 49. This allows the amount of liquid sprayed to be adjusted to the amount set by the user.

[0159] (11) By providing a flow sensor 68 in the liquid supply pipe 60, the flow rate of the liquid flowing through the liquid supply pipe 60 can be detected. Furthermore, by providing a flow sensor 68 downstream of the first solenoid valve 66 in the liquid supply pipe 60, an abnormality in the first solenoid valve 66 can be detected based on the detected flow rate Q.

[0160] (12) In addition to the first solenoid valve 66, a second solenoid valve 67 is further provided in the liquid supply pipe 60. This prevents liquid from leaking out of the air supply pipe 40 when the motor 35 is stopped, even if the first solenoid valve 66 fails.

[0161] (13) When the trigger 42 is in the off position, if the flow rate Q is greater than or equal to the flow rate threshold, an abnormality may occur in the first solenoid valve 66, and the flow path may not be closed by the first solenoid valve 66. Therefore, the second solenoid valve 67 is closed. This prevents liquid from leaking out of the blower pipe 40 when the motor 35 is stopped.

[0162] (14) When the trigger 42 is in the ON position, if the flow rate Q is less than the flow rate threshold, a malfunction may have occurred in the first solenoid valve 66, and the opening of the first solenoid valve 66 may be insufficient. Therefore, the first solenoid valve 66 and the second solenoid valve 67 are closed. This protects the mist blower 100.

[0163] (5. Fifth Embodiment) <5-1. Differences from the First Embodiment> The fifth embodiment has the same basic configuration as the first embodiment, so the differences will be explained below. Note that the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment indicate the same components, and refer to the preceding description.

[0164] The mist blower 100 according to the fifth embodiment includes a wind speed sensor 95 in addition to the configuration of the mist blower 100 according to the first embodiment described above. Furthermore, the MCU 71 according to the fifth embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that it performs solenoid control processing based on the wind speed detected by the wind speed sensor 95.

[0165] <5-2. Structure> As shown in Figure 16, the mist blower 100 according to the fifth embodiment is equipped with a wind speed sensor 95. The wind speed sensor 95 is positioned in the air supply pipe 40, downstream of the impeller 33 and upstream of the liquid nozzle 63, and close to the liquid nozzle 63. The wind speed sensor 95 detects the speed of the wind blown into the liquid nozzle 63. As shown in Figure 17, the wind speed sensor 95 outputs a wind speed signal indicating the detected wind speed to the MCU 71.

[0166] <5-3. Solenoid Control Processing> Next, the solenoid control process performed by the MCU71 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart in Figure 18. When the MCU71 according to this embodiment is started up, it performs the motor control process shown in Figure 8, the temperature anomaly detection process shown in Figure 6, and the current anomaly detection process shown in Figure 7 in parallel with the solenoid control process shown in Figure 18.

[0167] In S700, it is determined whether trigger 42 is in the ON position or not. If it is determined that trigger 42 is in the ON position (S700: YES), the process proceeds to S710. If it is determined that trigger 42 is in the OFF position (S700: NO), the process of S700 is repeatedly executed until it is determined that trigger 42 is in the ON position.

[0168] In S710, the current wind speed V inside the air supply pipe 40 is obtained based on the wind speed signal detected by the wind speed sensor 95. Next, in S720, it is determined whether or not the motor 35 is running. If it is determined that the motor 35 is running (S720: YES), the process proceeds to S730. If it is determined that the motor 35 is stopped (S720: NO), the process returns to S700.

[0169] In S730, it is determined whether the wind speed V obtained in S710 is equal to or greater than a preset wind speed threshold. The wind speed threshold is, for example, 56 m / s, which is a value greater than or equal to the wind speed that generates negative pressure in the liquid nozzle 63. If it is determined that the wind speed V is equal to or greater than the wind speed threshold (S730: YES), the process proceeds to S740. If it is determined that the wind speed V is less than the wind speed threshold (S730: NO), the process returns to S700.

[0170] In S740, the solenoid 66a is energized by turning on the second switch 79 and outputting a solenoid energizing signal to the solenoid drive circuit 75. In this embodiment, the motor 35 is not driven and the solenoid 66a is not energized at the same time. If the wind speed V is below the wind speed threshold, the liquid may not become a mist even if the liquid is discharged from the liquid nozzle 63. Therefore, the solenoid 66a is driven when the rotation speed R of the motor 35 increases and the wind speed V becomes equal to or greater than the wind speed threshold.

[0171] Next, in S750, the current wind speed V inside the air supply pipe 40 is acquired based on the wind speed signal detected by the wind speed sensor 95. Next, in S760, it is determined whether the motor 35 is running or not. If it is determined that the motor 35 is running (S760: YES), the process proceeds to S780. If it is determined that the motor 35 is stopped (S760: NO), the process proceeds to S770.

[0172] In S770, the solenoid 66a is de-energized, that is, the second switch 79 is turned off. In addition / or, a solenoid de-energized signal is output to the solenoid drive circuit 75. If the motor 35 stops, the solenoid 66a is immediately de-energized to stop the discharge of liquid from the liquid nozzle 63.

[0173] In S780, it is determined whether the wind speed V obtained in S750 is equal to or greater than the wind speed threshold. If it is determined that the wind speed V is equal to or greater than the wind speed threshold (S780:YES), the process returns to S750. If it is determined that the wind speed V is less than the wind speed threshold (S780:NO), the process proceeds to S790.

[0174] In S790, the same processing as in S770 is performed. In this embodiment, even while the motor 35 is running, if the wind speed V falls below the wind speed threshold, the solenoid 66a is de-energized to stop the discharge of liquid from the liquid nozzle 63. After the processing in S790, the process proceeds to S800.

[0175] In S800, it is determined whether trigger 42 is in the off position or not. If it is determined that trigger 42 is in the off position (S800: YES), the process returns to S700. If it is determined that trigger 42 is in the on position (S800: NO), the process of S800 is repeatedly executed until it is determined that trigger 42 is in the off position.

[0176] <5-4. Effects> According to the fifth embodiment described in detail above, the effects (1) to (6) of the first embodiment described above are achieved, and furthermore, the following effects are achieved.

[0177] (15) The solenoid valve 66 is opened only after the air velocity V in the air supply pipe 40 rises above the air velocity threshold, so that the liquid can be discharged from the liquid nozzle 63 in an appropriate mist form.

[0178] (6. Sixth Embodiment) <6-1. Differences from the First Embodiment> The sixth embodiment has the same basic configuration as the first embodiment, so the differences will be explained below. Note that the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment indicate the same components, and refer to the preceding description.

[0179] The MCU71 according to the sixth embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that it performs solenoid control processing based on the elapsed time since the trigger 42 was turned on.

[0180] <6-2. Solenoid Control Process> Next, the solenoid control process performed by the MCU71 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart in Figure 19. When the MCU71 according to this embodiment is started up, it performs the motor control process shown in Figure 8, the temperature anomaly detection process shown in Figure 6, and the current anomaly detection process shown in Figure 7 in parallel with the solenoid control process shown in Figure 18.

[0181] In S900, it is determined whether the trigger 42 is in the ON position or not. If it is determined that the trigger 42 is in the ON position (S900: YES), the process proceeds to S910. If it is determined that the trigger 42 is in the OFF position (S900: NO), the process of S900 is repeatedly executed until it is determined that the trigger 42 is in the ON position. Also, if it was previously determined to be in the OFF position and is now determined to be in the ON position, the elapsed time T count begins. In other words, if the trigger 42 moves from the OFF position to the ON position, the elapsed time T count begins.

[0182] In S910, the elapsed time T since trigger 42 was turned on is obtained. That is, the elapsed time T from the time trigger 42 was displaced to the ON position until the current time is obtained. Next, in S920, it is determined whether or not the motor 35 is running. If it is determined that the motor 35 is running (S920: YES), the process proceeds to S930. If it is determined that the motor 35 is stopped (S920: NO), the process returns to S900.

[0183] In S930, it is determined whether the elapsed time T obtained in S910 is equal to or greater than a preset time threshold. The time threshold is the time required for the rotational speed R of the motor 35 to rise sufficiently and for the wind speed V in the air supply pipe 40 to be equal to or greater than the wind speed threshold. If it is determined that the elapsed time T is equal to or greater than the time threshold (S930: YES), the process proceeds to S940. If it is determined that the elapsed time T is less than the time threshold (S930: NO), the process returns to S900.

[0184] In S940, the second switch 79 is turned on, and a solenoid energizing signal is output to the solenoid drive circuit 75, thereby energizing the solenoid 66a. In this embodiment, the motor 35 is started to drive when the trigger 42 is moved to the ON position, but the energizing of the solenoid 66a is not started at the same time. If the elapsed time T is less than the time threshold, the rotational speed R of the motor 35 may not have increased sufficiently, and even if liquid is discharged from the liquid nozzle 63, the liquid may not become a mist. Therefore, the solenoid 66a is started to drive when the elapsed time T is equal to or greater than the time threshold.

[0185] Next, the S950 resets the elapsed time T count to zero. Next, in S960, the solenoid 66a is de-energized based on one of the following: the position of the trigger 42, the rotational speed R of the motor 35, the wind speed V, or an error flag. Specifically, the solenoid 66a is de-energized by executing one of the following: the processes in S40-S80, S340-S390, or S750-S800.

[0186] <6-3. Effects> The sixth embodiment described in detail above achieves the effects (1) to (6) of the first embodiment mentioned above, and further achieves the following effects.

[0187] (16) The solenoid valve 66 is opened only after the air velocity V in the air supply pipe 40 has risen sufficiently as the rotational speed R of the motor 35 increases. As a result, the liquid can be discharged from the liquid nozzle 63 in an appropriate mist form.

[0188] (7. Seventh Embodiment) <7-1. Differences from the second embodiment> The seventh embodiment has the same basic configuration as the second embodiment, so the differences will be explained below. Note that the same reference numerals as in the second embodiment indicate the same components, and refer to the preceding description.

[0189] The mist blower 100 according to the seventh embodiment does not have a housing section 20, and the blower unit 30 is located below the liquid tank 10. The blower unit 30 according to the seventh embodiment differs from the second embodiment in that it has an engine 6 instead of a motor 35. The blower unit 30 according to the seventh embodiment houses an impeller 33, an engine 6, a first power generation unit 122, and a second power generation unit 123.

[0190] <7-1. Structure> Referring to Figure 20, the differences in the configuration of the mist blower 100, centered on the engine 6, from the fifth embodiment will be explained. The engine 6 is either a two-stroke engine or a four-stroke engine.

[0191] The mist blower 100 according to this embodiment comprises an engine 6, a recoil starter 118, a first power generation unit 122, and a second power generation unit 123. The engine 6 comprises a shaft 16, a crankcase 6a, a piston 6b, and a spark plug 6c. The engine is started by pulling the recoil starter 118. By supplying power to the spark plug 6c, fuel such as gasoline supplied to the engine 6 is burned, causing the piston 6b to reciprocate. This causes the shaft 16 to rotate. The impeller 33 is physically connected to the shaft 16 and rotates in conjunction with the rotation of the shaft 16.

[0192] The first power generation unit 122 generates power for the spark plug 6c by the rotation of the shaft 16 and supplies power to the spark plug 6c. Specifically, the first power generation unit 122 comprises a flywheel 127, a permanent magnet 122a, a first power generation coil 122b, and an ignition circuit unit 122c. The flywheel 127 is physically connected to the shaft 16. The permanent magnet 122a is installed on the outer circumference of the flywheel 127. The first power generation coil 122b is positioned in close proximity to the permanent magnet 122a. The ignition circuit unit 122c uses the power generated by the permanent magnet 122a and the first power generation coil 122b by the rotation of the shaft 16 as primary power, generates a high-voltage intermittent current at a preset ignition timing, and supplies this intermittent current to the spark plug 6c.

[0193] The second power generation unit 123 generates power for the control unit 126 and solenoid 66a by the rotation of the shaft 16 and supplies it to the control unit 126 and solenoid 66a. Specifically, the second power generation unit 123 comprises a flywheel 127, a permanent magnet 123a, a second power generation coil 123b, and a second power supply unit 123c. The flywheel 127 is physically connected to the shaft 16. The permanent magnet 123a is installed on the outer circumference of the flywheel 127, spaced apart from the permanent magnet 122a. The second power generation coil 123b is positioned close to the permanent magnet 123a. The second power supply unit 123c rectifies the power generated by the permanent magnet 123a and the second power generation coil 123b by the rotation of the shaft 16 and supplies it to the solenoid 66a. In this embodiment, the second power generation unit 123 corresponds to an example of a power generation unit of this disclosure.

[0194] The control unit 126 includes a rotation speed detection unit 124. The rotation speed detection unit 124 detects the rotation speed N of the engine 6 based on a signal corresponding to the rotation of the shaft 16 from the first power generation unit 122. The control unit 126 acquires a wind speed signal from the wind speed sensor 95. In addition, the control unit 126 acquires a command signal from the trigger 42, similar to the MCU 71. Based on the acquired rotation speed N of the engine 6 and various signals, the control unit 126 executes engine control processing and solenoid control processing.

[0195] <7-2. Processing> <7-2-1. Engine Control Processing> Next, the engine control process performed by the control unit 126 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart in Figure 21. In this embodiment, the control unit 126 starts this process when the engine 6 is idling after the recoil starter 18 has been pulled and the engine 6 has started. When the control unit 126 starts, it performs the solenoid control process shown in Figure 22 in parallel with the engine control process shown in Figure 21.

[0196] S605 performs the same processing as S600. Next, in S625, the fuel supply and the ignition timing of the spark plug 6c are adjusted to increase the rotational speed of the engine 6. In S635, the same process as in S630 is performed. In S645, the fuel supply and the ignition timing of the spark plug 6c are adjusted to decrease the rotational speed of the engine 6. In other words, in this embodiment, when the trigger 42 is in the ON position, the rotational speed of the engine 6 is increased, and when the trigger 42 is in the OFF position, the rotational speed of the engine 6 is decreased. As the rotational speed of the engine 6 increases, the rotational speed of the impeller 33 also increases, and the load on the impeller 33 on the shaft 16 increases. When the load on the impeller 33 balances with the output of the engine 6, the increase in the rotational speed of the engine 6 stops.

[0197] <7-2-2. Solenoid Control Process> Next, the solenoid control process performed by the control unit 126 will be explained with reference to the flowchart in Figure 22. S303 performs the same processing as S300. In S308, the current engine speed N detected by the rotation speed detection unit 124 is acquired.

[0198] In S325 and S335, the same processing as in S320 and S330 is performed. In step S345, the current engine speed N detected by the rotation speed detection unit 124 is acquired. In steps S375 to S395, the same processing as in steps S370 to S390 is performed.

[0199] <7-3. Effects> The seventh embodiment described in detail above provides the following effects. (17) If the command signal to the engine 6 from the trigger 42 increases the rotational speed, the solenoid valve 66 is opened. If the command signal to the engine 6 from the trigger 42 decreases the rotational speed, the solenoid valve 66 is closed. The user can control the increase and decrease in rotational speed of the engine 6, as well as the opening and closing of the solenoid valve 66, by manually operating the trigger 42.

[0200] (18) The solenoid valve 66 is opened when the rotational speed N of the engine 6 is equal to or greater than the rotational speed threshold. This allows the liquid to be appropriately sprayed in a mist form from the air supply pipe 40.

[0201] (Eighth embodiment) <8-1. Differences from the 7th Embodiment> The eighth embodiment has the same basic configuration as the seventh embodiment, so the differences will be explained below. Note that the same reference numerals as in the seventh embodiment indicate the same components, and refer to the preceding description. The control unit 126 according to the eighth embodiment differs from the seventh embodiment in that it performs the solenoid control process shown in Figure 23 instead of the solenoid control process shown in Figure 22.

[0202] <8-2. Solenoid Control Process> Next, the solenoid control process performed by the control unit 126 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart in Figure 23. S705 and S715 perform the same processing as S700 and S710.

[0203] Next, in steps S735-S755, the same processing as in S730-S750 is performed. In steps S785 to S805, the same processing as in steps S780 to S800 is performed.

[0204] <8-3. Effects> According to the eighth embodiment described above, the effects (17) of the seventh embodiment described above are achieved, as well as the effects (15) of the fifth embodiment.

[0205] (9. Other Embodiments) Although embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above and can be implemented in various modified forms.

[0206] (a) The third embodiment may be combined with any of the second, fifth, or sixth embodiments. Alternatively, the fourth embodiment may be combined with any of the second, fifth, or sixth embodiments. That is, in the third or fourth embodiment, the first solenoid 66a may be energized when (i) the rotational speed R of the motor 35 is equal to or greater than the rotational speed threshold, or (ii) the wind speed V is equal to or greater than the wind speed threshold, or (iii) the elapsed time T is equal to or greater than the time threshold, and the first solenoid 66a may be de-energized when (i) the rotational speed R is less than the rotational speed threshold, or (ii) the wind speed V is less than the wind speed threshold, or (iii) the elapsed time T is less than the time threshold. Furthermore, the seventh or eighth embodiment may be combined with any of the first, third, fourth, or sixth embodiments.

[0207] (b) In the second embodiment, the MCU 71 may not calculate the rotational speed R, but estimate the rotational speed R based on the duty cycle of the motor drive signal. That is, in S320 and S360, instead of determining whether the rotational speed R is equal to or greater than the rotational speed threshold, the MCU 71 may determine whether the duty cycle of the motor drive signal is equal to or greater than the duty cycle threshold.

[0208] (c) In the third embodiment, if it is determined in S550 that the trigger 42 is in the ON position, a different flag from the error flag may be set to ON. When the different flag is set to ON, either the first solenoid valve 66 or the second solenoid valve 67 may be closed, but not both. That is, if the opening of the first solenoid valve 66 is insufficient, either the first solenoid valve 66 or the second solenoid valve 67 may be closed.

[0209] (d) Modifications of the first embodiment may be applied to the second, third, and fourth embodiments. That is, in the second, third, and fourth embodiments, the mist blower 100 does not need to be equipped with a mechanical valve 65. Also, in the second, third, and fourth embodiments, the mist blower 100 does not need to be equipped with a mechanical liquid volume adjustment unit 44. In the second, third, and fourth embodiments, if the mist blower 100 does not have a mechanical liquid volume adjustment unit 44 but is equipped with a mechanical valve 65, the mechanical valve 65 may be configured to allow manual adjustment of its opening degree, or the solenoid valve 66 or the first solenoid valve 66 may be configured to allow adjustment of its opening degree. Also, in the second, third, and fourth embodiments, if the mist blower 100 does not have a mechanical liquid volume adjustment unit 44 and a mechanical valve 65, the solenoid valve 66 or the first solenoid valve 66 may be configured to allow adjustment of its opening degree.

[0210] (e) In each of the above embodiments, the MCU71 may be a combination of various individual electronic components, an Application Specified Integrated Circuit (ASIC), an Application Specific Standard Product (ASSP), a programmable logic device such as a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), or a combination thereof.

[0211] (f) Multiple functions of one component in the above embodiment may be realized by multiple components, or one function of one component may be realized by multiple components. Also, multiple functions of multiple components may be realized by one component, or one function realized by multiple components may be realized by one component. Furthermore, some of the configurations of the above embodiment may be omitted. Furthermore, at least some of the configurations of the above embodiment may be added to or replaced with the configurations of other above embodiments. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0212] 10...Liquid tank, 12...Liquid outlet, 20...Storage section, 30...Blower unit, 31...Housing, 33...Impeller, 35...Motor, 36...Blow-out outlet, 40...Air duct, 41...Grip, 42...Trigger, 45...Discharge port, 46...Connection port, 48...Liquid volume adjustment dial, 60...Liquid supply pipe, 61...Inlet, 62...Outlet, 63...Liquid nozzle, 65...Mechanical valve, 66...Solenoid valve, 1st solenoid valve, 66a...Solenoid, 1st solenoid, 67...2nd solenoid valve, 67a...2nd solenoid, 68...Flow sensor, 70A, 70B...Control device, 72...Motor drive circuit, 73...1st temperature detection circuit, 74...First current detection circuit, 75...Solenoid drive circuit, 1st solenoid drive circuit, 76...2nd temperature detection circuit, 77...2nd current detection circuit, 78...1st switch, 79...2nd switch, 81...2nd solenoid drive circuit, 82...3rd temperature detection circuit, 83...3rd current detection circuit, 84...3rd switch, 88...Latch circuit, 91...Position sensor, 100...Mist blower, 200A...1st battery, 200B...2nd battery, 210A...1st battery switch, 210B...2nd battery switch, 220...Connection part, 220A...1st connection port, 220B...2nd connection port.

Claims

1. A blower configured to generate wind, A blower pipe configured to allow the air generated by the blower to flow through, A liquid tank configured to hold liquid, A liquid supply pipe having an inlet and an outlet, the inlet being connected to the liquid tank, A liquid nozzle is positioned inside the air blower and connected to the outlet, and is configured to receive the liquid from the liquid tank via the liquid supply pipe by the negative pressure generated by the air flowing through the air blower, and to discharge the liquid. A first solenoid valve is disposed in the liquid delivery pipe and configured to open and close the flow path within the liquid delivery pipe, A control unit configured to control the drive of the blower and the first solenoid valve, The system includes an operating unit configured to instruct the operation or stopping of the blower in response to manual operation by the user, Mist blower.

2. It further includes a connector configured to connect to a battery, The blower includes an impeller and a motor configured to rotate the impeller by receiving power from the battery connected to the connection part. The first solenoid valve includes a solenoid configured to receive current from the battery, The operating unit is configured to be displaced between an off position and an on position by manual operation by the user, and is configured to command the control unit to stop the motor and close the first solenoid valve when in the off position, and to command the control unit to drive the motor and open the first solenoid valve when in the on position. The mist blower according to claim 1.

3. The blower includes an engine, a power generation unit connected to the shaft of the engine and configured to generate electricity by the rotation of the engine, and an impeller connected to the shaft. The first solenoid valve includes a solenoid configured to allow current from the power generation unit to flow through it. The operating unit is configured to be displaced between an off position and an on position by manual operation by the user, and is configured to command the control unit to decrease the engine speed and close the first solenoid valve when in the off position, and to command the control unit to increase the engine speed and open the first solenoid valve when in the on position. The mist blower according to claim 1.

4. The control unit is configured to open the first solenoid valve when the rotational speed of the motor is equal to or greater than a set rotational speed threshold. The mist blower according to claim 2.

5. The control unit is configured to open the first solenoid valve when the engine speed is above a set rotational speed threshold. The mist blower according to claim 3.

6. The air supply pipe is further equipped with an air velocity sensor configured to detect the air velocity inside the air supply pipe, The control unit is configured to open the first solenoid valve when the wind speed detected by the wind speed sensor is equal to or greater than a set wind speed threshold. The mist blower according to claim 2 or 3.

7. The control unit is configured to open the first solenoid valve when the elapsed time since the operating unit was displaced to the ON position is equal to or greater than a set time threshold. The mist blower according to claim 2 or 3.

8. The control unit, The control unit is configured to detect abnormal conditions, The system is configured to close the first solenoid valve in response to the detection of the aforementioned abnormal condition. The mist blower according to claim 2.

9. The control unit is configured to maintain the first solenoid valve in a closed state when it detects the abnormal condition while the operating unit is in the ON position, until the operating unit returns from the ON position through the OFF position to the ON position. The mist blower according to claim 8.

10. The system further comprises a liquid volume setting unit which is manually operated by the user to set the amount of liquid to be discharged from the liquid nozzle and is configured to command the set amount of liquid to the control unit, The control unit is configured to control the opening degree of the first solenoid valve according to the liquid volume commanded by the liquid volume setting unit. The mist blower according to claim 2.

11. The liquid delivery pipe is further provided with a flow sensor configured to detect the flow rate of the liquid flowing through the liquid delivery pipe, The mist blower according to claim 2.

12. The liquid delivery pipe further comprises a second solenoid valve provided in the liquid delivery pipe and configured to open and close the flow path within the liquid delivery pipe. The mist blower according to claim 11.

13. The control unit is configured to close the second solenoid valve when the operation unit is in the off position, in accordance with whether the flow rate detected by the flow sensor is equal to or greater than the liquid volume threshold. The mist blower according to claim 12.

14. The control unit is configured to close the first solenoid valve and / or the second solenoid valve when the operating unit is in the ON position, in accordance with whether the flow rate detected by the flow rate sensor is less than the liquid volume threshold. The mist blower according to claim 12 or 13.

15. The liquid delivery pipe further comprises a mechanical valve provided in the liquid delivery pipe and configured to open and close the flow path within the liquid delivery pipe. The mist blower according to claim 1.

16. The mechanical valve is located downstream of the first solenoid valve in the liquid supply pipe. The mist blower according to claim 15.

17. The mechanical valve is located upstream of the first solenoid valve in the liquid supply pipe. The mist blower according to claim 15.

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