Laser level
The laser alignment device with rotatable legs and a protruding gripping portion addresses the challenge of portability and usability by enabling easier handling and improved stability.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Patents
- Current Assignee / Owner
- PANASONIC HOLDINGS CORP
- Filing Date
- 2022-04-19
- Publication Date
- 2026-06-17
Smart Images
Figure 0007875013000001 
Figure 0007875013000002 
Figure 0007875013000003
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0006] , ,
[0007] , ,
[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to a laser alignment device, and more particularly to a laser alignment device having legs.
Background Art
[0002] Conventionally, a laser alignment device (laser alignment tool) that emits line light as a reference line attached to a wall surface or a ceiling surface during housing construction or electrical work is known (for example, Patent Document 1).
[0003] In the laser alignment device described in Patent Document 1, a light source that emits a light beam for alignment (laser light), a projection lens that converts the light beam into parallel light, and a cylindrical lens that converts the parallel light into fan-shaped line light are held on a frame.
Prior Art Documents
Patent Documents
[0004]
Patent Document 1
Summary of the Invention
Problems to be Solved by the Invention
[0005] By the way, in a laser alignment device as described in Patent Document 1, it is desired to make the laser alignment device easy to carry.
[0006] The present disclosure has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide a laser alignment device that is easy for a user to hold.
Means for Solving the Problems
[0007] A laser level according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises a light source, a main body, and legs. The light source emits laser light. The main body holds the light source. The legs are installed on a mounting surface and support the main body. The legs have three or more legs configured to rotate between a closed position and an open position. One of the three or more legs, which is the main leg, has a gripping portion. When all three or more legs are in the closed position, the gripping portion protrudes away from the center of the main body in a direction intersecting the direction in which the main body and the legs are aligned. The outer shape of the gripping portion is columnar in the direction of alignment when the main legs are in the closed position. [Effects of the Invention]
[0008] According to the laser level according to the above embodiment of this disclosure, the user can easily grip the laser level. [Brief explanation of the drawing]
[0009] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the laser level according to this embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a rear view of the laser level shown above. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a side view of the laser level shown above. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a perspective view of the main legs of the laser level shown above. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of the main landing gear shown above. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA in Figure 2. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is an exploded perspective view of the storage compartment of the main landing gear shown above. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view along line BB in Figure 2. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a perspective view of the auxiliary legs of the laser level shown above. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view along the CC line in Figure 3. [Modes for carrying out the invention]
[0010] Preferred embodiments relating to this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. In the embodiments described below, elements common to each other are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions of common elements may be omitted. The embodiments described below are only one of many embodiments of this disclosure. The embodiments can be modified in various ways depending on the design, etc., as long as they achieve the objectives of this disclosure.
[0011] The figures described in this disclosure are schematic, and the ratios of the size and thickness of each component in each figure do not necessarily reflect the actual dimensional ratios. In the following, the up, down, left, right, front, and back directions (up, down, left, right, front, and back in Figure 1) will be described as up, down, left, right, front, and back when the laser level 1 is installed on a horizontal surface. The up, down, left, right, and front, and back directions are all orthogonal to each other. Furthermore, the orientation in which the laser level 1 is installed is not limited to the above orientations. Note that the arrows indicating each direction in the drawings are examples and are not intended to specify the direction in which the laser level 1 is used. Also, the arrows indicating each direction in the drawings are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent actual objects.
[0012] In this disclosure, "orthogonal (perpendicular)" includes not only a state where the angle between two objects is exactly 90 degrees, but also a state where the two objects are orthogonal within a certain margin of error. In other words, the angle between two orthogonal objects falls within a certain range of difference from 90 degrees (for example, 10 degrees or less). That is, "orthogonal" in this disclosure includes cases where the angle between two objects is between 80 degrees and 100 degrees. Similarly, "parallel" in this disclosure includes not only a state where two objects do not intersect exactly, but also a state where two objects are parallel within a certain range of difference. For example, "parallel" in this disclosure includes a state where the inclination of one object relative to the other is 10 degrees or less. That is, "parallel" in this disclosure includes cases where the angle between one object and the other is between -10 degrees and 10 degrees.
[0013] (1) Overview First, an overview of the laser level 1 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 1.
[0014] The laser marking device 1 is used at a work site where housing construction, electrical work, or the like is being carried out. The laser marking device 1 is installed and used on an installation surface such as the floor of the work site. In the installed state on the installation surface, the laser marking device 1 emits a point light L1 which is a point-shaped laser beam, a horizontal line light L3 which is a linearly-shaped laser beam in the horizontal direction, and a vertical line light L2 which is a linearly-shaped laser beam in the vertical direction. The point light L1 is emitted upward, the horizontal line light L3 is emitted forward, and the vertical line light is emitted forward and upward. Such point light L1, horizontal line light L3, and vertical line light L2 are used as reference points and reference lines to be attached to wall surfaces and ceiling surfaces when housing construction, electrical work, or the like is being carried out. In the following description, the point light L1, horizontal line light L3, and vertical line light L2 may be collectively referred to as laser light.
[0015] In this embodiment, the direction in which the main body 2 and the legs 3 are aligned is defined as the vertical direction. Also, the direction from the legs 3 toward the main body 2 is defined as upward (above), and the direction from the main body 2 toward the legs 3 is defined as downward (below).
[0016] The laser marking device 1 of this embodiment includes a light source 10, a main body 2, and legs 3.
[0017] The light source 10 is a light source that emits laser light.
[0018] The main body 2 holds the light source 10.
[0019] The legs 3 are installed on the installation surface and support the main body 2.
[0020] The legs 3 have three or more legs 31 that are configured to be rotatable between a closed position and an open position. The legs 3 of this embodiment have three legs 31.
[0021] A main leg 5 which is one of the three or more legs 31 has a grip portion 59.
[0022] When all three or more legs 31 are in the closed position, the gripping portion 59 protrudes away from the center of the main body 2 in a direction (horizontal direction) that intersects the direction in which the main body 2 and the legs 3 are aligned (vertical direction).
[0023] According to the laser level 1 of this embodiment, the presence of a gripping portion 59 that protrudes away from the center of the main body 2 along the intersecting direction (horizontal direction) makes it easier for the user to grip the laser level 1.
[0024] (2) Details The detailed configuration of the laser level 1 according to this embodiment will be described below with reference to Figures 1 to 10.
[0025] As shown in Figure 1, the laser level 1 of this embodiment comprises a main body 2, legs 3, an operating unit 7 (see Figure 2), and a light source 10.
[0026] (2.1) Main unit As shown in Figure 1, the outer shape of the main body 2 is cylindrical. At least a portion of the outside of the main body 2 in this embodiment is covered by a plurality of cushioning members (elastic members) 21. The plurality of cushioning members 21 are made of a material that mitigates impact, for example, urethane. By covering at least a portion of the outside of the main body 2 with the plurality of cushioning members 21, the laser level 1 is protected from impact by the multiple cushioning members 21 mitigating the impact, for example, if the laser level 1 falls over or is dropped. Note that the laser level 1 may have only one cushioning member 21.
[0027] The main body 2 houses (holds) the light source 10 and the optical system inside.
[0028] As described above, the light source 10 is a light source that emits laser light. The light source 10 has, for example, a semiconductor laser element. In this embodiment, the light source 10 emits green laser light. However, the color of the laser light emitted by the light source 10 is not limited to green; it may also be red or blue.
[0029] The optical system of this embodiment has a plurality of optical system components, such as a beam splitter, a reflective member, and an output lens. The optical system divides the laser light emitted from the light source 10 into a point beam L1, a horizontal line beam L3, and a vertical line beam L2.
[0030] Furthermore, the main body 2 of this embodiment has a first ejection window 22, a second ejection window 23, and a third ejection window 24.
[0031] The first emission window 22 is located near the center of the upper surface of the main body 2. The shape of the first emission window 22 is elliptical when viewed from above (plan view). The first emission window 22 is a region for emitting point light L1 to the outside of the main body 2. The first emission window 22 is made of, for example, synthetic resin or glass and is transparent.
[0032] The second emission window 23 is provided in a recess formed across the top surface and side surface of the main body 2. In a top view, the second emission window 23 has a rectangular shape with its longitudinal direction aligned with the front-to-back direction. The second emission window 23 is inclined downwards from near the center of the top surface of the main body 2 towards the ends (side surface side). The second emission window 23 is a region for emitting vertical line light L2 to the outside of the main body 2. The second emission window 23 is made of, for example, synthetic resin or glass and is transparent.
[0033] The third emission window 24 is provided on the front side of the side surface of the main body 2. In a front view (plan view), the shape of the third emission window 24 is rectangular, with its longitudinal direction aligned with the left-right direction. The third emission window 24 is a region for emitting horizontal line light L3 to the outside of the main body 2. The third emission window 24 is made of, for example, synthetic resin or glass, and is transparent.
[0034] Multiple recesses 26 (one in the example in Figure 1) are formed at the lower end of the main body 2. In this embodiment, the main body 2 has three recesses 26. In the following description, unless otherwise distinguished, each of the three recesses 26 may simply be referred to as "recess 26".
[0035] The recess 26 is recessed upward from the bottom surface of the main body 2. The recess 26 is also recessed inward from the side surface of the main body 2 towards the center of the main body 2. As shown in Figure 6, multiple (four in the example in Figure 6) protrusions 261 are formed on the upper surface 260 of the recess 26. These multiple protrusions 261 project downward.
[0036] As shown in Figure 1, each of the multiple recesses 26 is provided with multiple (two in the example of Figure 1) rotation axes 25 that correspond one-to-one with each of the multiple recesses 26. In this embodiment, each of the three recesses 26 is provided with three rotation axes 25 that correspond one-to-one with each of the three recesses 26.
[0037] The axis of each of the three rotation axes 25 is located on a virtual plane perpendicular to the vertical direction. The three virtual axes, which are extensions of the three rotation axes 25 in this embodiment, intersect each other at 60 degrees. That is, the three virtual axes, which are extensions of the three rotation axes 25, form an equilateral triangle. Three legs 31 are attached to the three rotation axes 25, with one-to-one correspondence between the three rotation axes 25. In the following description, when the three rotation axes 25 are not distinguished, each of the three rotation axes 25 may simply be referred to as "rotation axis 25".
[0038] (2.2) Legs As described above, the leg portion 3 is installed on the mounting surface and supports the main body 2. The leg portion 3 of this embodiment has three legs 31. The three legs 31 of this embodiment include one main leg 5. In the following description, when the three legs 31 are not distinguished, each of the three legs 31 may be simply referred to as "leg 31". Also, the two legs 31 that are not the main leg 5 may each be referred to as "sub-leg 4". The main leg 5 of this embodiment has the greatest mass of the three legs 31 when the battery is not stored in the storage compartment 8.
[0039] As described above, each of the three legs 31 is attached to each of the three rotating shafts 25 located at the lower end of the main body 2.
[0040] The legs 31 are configured to rotate between a closed position and an open position around the rotation axis 25. Figure 1 shows the laser level 1 with the three legs 31 in the open position. Figures 2 and 3 show the laser level 1 with the three legs 31 in the closed position. In the following description, the direction in which the legs 31 move from the closed position to the open position may be referred to as "outward." Also, the direction in which the legs 31 move from the open position to the closed position may be referred to as "inward." As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the shape of the legs 3 is rod-shaped when all three legs 31 are in the closed position.
[0041] (2.3) Main landing gear As shown in Figure 4, the outer diameter of the main landing gear 5 in this embodiment is columnar. The main landing gear 5 in this embodiment comprises a first base portion 50, a storage portion 8, and a cushioning member (elastic member) 6.
[0042] (2.4) First base As shown in Figure 5, the shape of the first base 50 in this embodiment is a box shape with an open inner surface. The first base 50 in this embodiment is formed of a synthetic resin such as polycarbonate resin.
[0043] The first base 50 includes a first side plate 51, a pair of second side plates 52, a first bottom plate 53, a top plate 54, an inclined plate 55, a connecting portion 56, a second bottom plate 57, and a pair of third side plates 58.
[0044] The first side plate 51 is formed in a rectangular, flat shape. The first side plate 51 also has a rounded shape that faces outward (rearward). A circular hole 511 is formed in the center of the first side plate 51. The hole 511 is for exposing the operating section 7 to the outside of the main landing gear 5.
[0045] The pair of second side plates 52 protrude inward (forward) from both ends of the first side plate 51 in a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction. The pair of second side plates 52 are formed in a rectangular, flat shape.
[0046] The first base plate 53 protrudes inward from the lower end of the first side plate 51. The first base plate 53 is formed to be continuous with the lower end of the first side plate 51 and the lower ends of the pair of second side plates 52. The first base plate 53 is formed in a flat shape. The normal to the main surface of the first base plate 53 is parallel to the vertical direction when the main leg 5 is in the closed position.
[0047] The inclined plate 55 protrudes inward from the upper end of the first side plate 51. More specifically, when the main leg 5 is in the closed position, the inclined plate 55 protrudes inward and upward from the upper end of the first side plate 51. The inclined plate 55 is formed to be continuous with the upper end of the first side plate 51 and the upper ends of the pair of second side plates 52. The inclined plate 55 is formed in a flat plate shape.
[0048] Here, at least a portion of the first side plate 51, the pair of second side plates 52, and the inclined plate 55 of this embodiment functions as a gripping portion 59 for gripping the laser level 1. In this embodiment, the first side plate 51, the pair of second side plates 52, and the inclined plate 55 function as a gripping portion 59. In other words, the main leg 5 of this embodiment has a gripping portion 59.
[0049] As shown in Figure 3, the pair of second side plates 52 and inclined plate 55 protrude away from the center of the main body 2 in a direction that intersects the direction in which the main body 2 and the legs 3 are aligned (vertical direction) when all three legs 31 are in the closed position. In other words, the gripping portion 59 of the main leg 5 protrudes away from the center of the main body 2 in a direction that intersects the direction in which the main body 2 and the legs 3 are aligned (vertical direction) when all three legs 31 are in the closed position. The presence of the gripping portion 59 that protrudes away from the center of the main body 2 allows the user of the laser level 1 to hold the laser level 1, for example, by placing their fingers on the gripping portion 59. Therefore, according to the laser level 1 of this embodiment, the stability when the user grips the laser level 1 can be improved.
[0050] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the gripping portion 59 includes the part furthest from the center of the main body 2 in a direction intersecting the vertical direction when all three legs 31 are in the closed position. Because the gripping portion 59 includes the part furthest from the center of the main body 2 in a direction intersecting the vertical direction, the user can grip the laser level 1 more easily.
[0051] Furthermore, since the main leg 5, which has the greatest mass among the three legs 31, has a gripping section 59, the stability when the user grips the laser level 1 can be further improved.
[0052] Furthermore, as described above, the main leg 5 of this embodiment has a storage section 8. The main leg 5, having a storage section 8, is often heavier than the sub-leg 4. The presence of a gripping section 59 in the main leg 5, which is often heavier, improves the stability when the user grips the laser level 1.
[0053] Furthermore, the main leg 5 of this embodiment has a cushioning member 6 that covers at least a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the gripping portion 59. Details of the cushioning member 6 will be described later, but the cushioning member 6 is made of, for example, urethane. The portion of the cushioning member 6 that covers the gripping portion 59 functions as the gripping portion 59. By covering at least a portion of the gripping portion 59 with the cushioning member 6, the stability when the user grips the laser level 1 can be further improved.
[0054] As shown in Figure 5, the top plate 54 protrudes inward from the upper end of the inclined plate 55. The top plate 54 is formed in a flat shape. The normal to the main surface of the top plate 54 is parallel to the vertical direction when the main legs 5 are in the closed position. That is, the top plate 54 is parallel to the first bottom plate 53.
[0055] The connecting portion 56 protrudes upward from the top plate 54 when the main legs 5 are in the closed position. The connecting portion 56 has a projection 561 and a hole 562.
[0056] The hole 562 is a hole that penetrates the connecting portion 56 along a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction. The rotating shaft 25 of the main body 2 passes through the hole 562. In other words, the hole 562 functions as a bearing for the rotating shaft 25.
[0057] As shown in Figure 6, the projection 561 protrudes upward and outward from the upper end of the connecting portion 56 when the main leg 5 is in the closed position. The projection 561 is configured to hook onto a plurality of projections 261 of the main body 2. By the projection 561 hooking onto the plurality of projections 261, the main leg 5 of this embodiment can rotate in steps between the closed position and the open position. In other words, by the projection 561 hooking onto the plurality of projections 261, the main leg 5 can be stationary at at least one intermediate position between the closed position and the open position. Because the main leg 5 is configured to rotate in steps between the closed position and the open position, the degree to which the main leg 5 is opened can be finely adjusted according to the conditions of the installation surface, thereby improving the stability of the laser level 1.
[0058] As shown in Figure 5, the second base plate 57 protrudes inward from the inner circumferential surface of the first side plate 51. The second base plate 57 is formed in a flat shape parallel to the first base plate 53. When the main leg 5 is in the closed position, the second base plate 57 is positioned slightly above the first base plate 53. The second base plate 57 is formed to be continuous with the first side plate 51 and the pair of second side plates 52.
[0059] The pair of third side plates 58 protrude inward from the inner ends of the pair of second side plates 52. Furthermore, the pair of third side plates 58 protrude in a direction that moves them away from each other as they approach the inside. The pair of third side plates 58 are formed in a rectangular, flat shape.
[0060] (2.5) Cushioning material As shown in Figure 5, the shape of the cushioning member 6 in this embodiment is a box shape with an open inner surface. The cushioning member 6 is made of a material that mitigates impact, such as urethane. The cushioning member 6 is positioned to cover at least a part of the first base 50. For example, if the laser level 1 tips over or falls, the cushioning member 6 mitigates the impact, protecting the main leg 5 from the shock.
[0061] The cushioning member 6 includes a first side plate 61, a pair of second side plates 62, a bottom plate 63, and an inclined plate 64.
[0062] The first side plate 61 is formed in a rectangular, flat shape. The first side plate 61 also has a rounded shape that faces outward. The first side plate 61 is positioned outside (rear) of the first side plate 51 of the first base 50. More specifically, in this embodiment, the first side plate 61 is positioned outside of the first side plate 51 of the first base 50, facing the first side plate 51 of the first base 50 in close contact with it.
[0063] A circular hole 611 and a protrusion 612 are formed in the center of the first side plate 61. The hole 611 is for exposing the operating section 7 to the outside of the main landing gear 5. The protrusion 612 protrudes inward from the edge of the hole 611. The protrusion 612 is formed in a cylindrical shape.
[0064] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 2 and 3, a recessed area 613 is formed on the outer surface (outer peripheral surface) of the first side plate 61, which is recessed inward. The recessed area 613 is formed at the edge of the hole 611. The shape of the recessed area 613 is annular when viewed from the rear.
[0065] The pair of second side plates 62 protrude inward from both ends of the first side plate 61 in a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction. The pair of second side plates 62 are formed in a rectangular flat plate shape. The pair of second side plates 62 are arranged to cover at least a portion of the pair of second side plates 52 of the first base 50 in a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction. More specifically, the pair of second side plates 62 in this embodiment are arranged to cover the pair of second side plates 52 of the first base 50 in a state where they are in close contact with and facing the pair of second side plates 52 of the first base 50.
[0066] The bottom plate 63 protrudes inward from the lower end of the first side plate 61. The bottom plate 63 is formed to be continuous with the lower end of the first side plate 61 and the lower ends of the pair of second side plates 62. The bottom plate 63 is formed in a flat shape. The normal to the main surface of the bottom plate 63 is parallel to the vertical direction when the main leg 5 is in the closed position. The bottom plate 63 is positioned below the first bottom plate 53 of the first base 50. More specifically, in this embodiment, the bottom plate 63 is positioned below the first bottom plate 53 of the first base 50, facing the first bottom plate 53 of the first base 50 in close contact with it.
[0067] The inclined plate 64 protrudes inward from the upper end of the first side plate 61. More specifically, when the main leg 5 is in the closed position, the inclined plate 64 protrudes inward and upward from the upper end of the first side plate 61. The inclined plate 64 is formed to be continuous with the upper end of the first side plate 61 and the upper ends of the pair of second side plates 62. The inclined plate 64 is formed in a flat plate shape.
[0068] The inclined plate 64 is positioned above the inclined plate 55 of the first base 50 and outside (behind) the inclined plate 55. More specifically, in this embodiment, the inclined plate 64 is positioned above the inclined plate 55 of the first base 50 and outside the inclined plate 55, facing the inclined plate 55 of the first base 50 so as to be in close contact with it.
[0069] In this embodiment, the first side plate 61, the pair of second side plates 62, and the inclined plate 64 function as a gripping portion 59.
[0070] (2.6) Storage compartment As shown in Figure 4, the storage section 8 is positioned inward (in front of) the first base 50. More specifically, the storage section 8 in this embodiment is fixed to the inside of the first base 50 with a plurality of screws. In the vertical direction, the storage section 8 is positioned between the top plate 54 and the second bottom plate 57 of the first base 50. In addition, the storage section 8 is positioned between the pair of third side plates 58 of the first base 50 in a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction (the extension direction of the rotation axis 25 or the left-right direction).
[0071] The storage compartment 8 houses batteries for emitting laser light from the light source 10. More specifically, the storage compartment 8 in this embodiment is configured to accommodate three batteries. By storing multiple batteries in the storage compartment 8 of the main leg 5, the laser level 1 can be made more compact.
[0072] In this embodiment, the storage compartment 8 houses a cylindrical battery having a central axis Ax1 (see Figure 8). More specifically, the storage compartment 8 houses three AA-size batteries. The batteries are, for example, alkaline batteries or nickel-metal hydride batteries.
[0073] As shown in Figure 7, the storage section 8 has a base 80 and a cover 86.
[0074] The base portion 80 of this embodiment has a first storage section 81, a second storage section 82, and a third storage section 83.
[0075] The first storage section 81 includes a first battery receiving section 811, a first bottom plate 812, and a first top plate 813 (see Figure 8).
[0076] The first battery holder portion 811 is formed to conform to the cylindrical battery. The first battery holder portion 811 is formed in the shape of a rectangular plate. When the main landing gear 5 is in the closed position, the first battery holder portion 811 is formed so that its longitudinal direction is aligned with the vertical direction. In addition, the surface of the first battery holder portion 811 facing the battery is rounded to conform to the circumferential surface of the cylindrical battery.
[0077] The first battery receiving portion 811 of this embodiment has a protrusion 814. The protrusion 814 protrudes from the surface of the first battery receiving portion 811 facing the battery toward the side surface of the battery. The amount of protrusion of the protrusion 814 in this embodiment is, for example, about 1 mm to 3 mm. The presence of the protrusion 814 makes it easier to remove the battery from the first storage portion 81 because the battery is separated from the first battery receiving portion 811.
[0078] Furthermore, the protrusion 814 in this embodiment is positioned on the negative electrode side of the battery. Because the protrusion 814 is positioned on the negative electrode side of the battery, the negative electrode side of the battery is separated from the first battery receiving portion 811. Therefore, the user can easily remove the battery by applying force to the battery in a direction opposite to the elastic force of the spring-shaped negative electrode terminal 84 and pulling the battery towards them.
[0079] The first base plate 812 is located below the battery. The first base plate 812 is continuous with the first battery receiving portion 811. The first base plate 812 is formed in a flat shape. When the main legs 5 are in the closed position, the normal to the main surface of the first base plate 812 is parallel to the vertical direction. The first base plate 812 in this embodiment is provided with a spring-shaped negative electrode terminal 84. The negative electrode terminal 84 is a terminal that is electrically connected to the negative electrode of the battery.
[0080] As shown in Figure 8, the first top plate 813 is positioned above the battery. The first top plate 813 is continuous with the first battery receiving portion 811. The first top plate 813 is formed in a flat shape. When the main legs 5 are in the closed position, the normal to the main surface of the first top plate 813 is parallel to the vertical direction. The first top plate 813 in this embodiment is provided with a positive electrode terminal 85. The positive electrode terminal 85 is a terminal that is electrically connected to the positive electrode of the battery.
[0081] As shown in Figure 7, the second storage section 82 includes a second battery receiving section 821 (see Figure 8), a second bottom plate 822, and a second top plate 823 (see Figure 8).
[0082] The second battery holder portion 821 is formed to conform to the cylindrical battery. The second battery holder portion 821 is formed in the shape of a rectangular plate. When the main landing gear 5 is in the closed position, the second battery holder portion 821 is formed so that its longitudinal direction is aligned with the vertical direction. In addition, the surface of the second battery holder portion 821 facing the battery is rounded to conform to the circumferential surface of the cylindrical battery.
[0083] The second bottom plate 822 is located below the battery. The second bottom plate 822 is continuous with the second battery receiving portion 821. The second bottom plate 822 is formed in a flat shape. When the main legs 5 are in the closed position, the normal to the main surface of the second bottom plate 822 is parallel to the vertical direction. The second bottom plate 822 in this embodiment is provided with a positive electrode terminal 85.
[0084] As shown in Figure 8, the second top plate 823 is positioned above the battery. The second top plate 823 is continuous with the second battery receiving portion 821. The second top plate 823 is formed in a flat shape. When the main legs 5 are in the closed position, the normal to the main surface of the second top plate 823 is parallel to the vertical direction. The second top plate 823 in this embodiment is provided with a negative electrode terminal 84.
[0085] As shown in Figure 7, the third storage section 83 includes a third battery receiving section 831, a third bottom plate 832, and a third top plate 833 (see Figure 8).
[0086] The third battery holder 831 is formed to conform to the cylindrical battery. The third battery holder 831 is formed in the shape of a rectangular plate. When the main landing gear 5 is in the closed position, the third battery holder 831 is formed so that its longitudinal direction is aligned with the vertical direction. In addition, the surface of the third battery holder 831 facing the battery is rounded to conform to the circumferential surface of the cylindrical battery.
[0087] The third battery receiving section 831, the first battery receiving section 811 of the first storage section 81, and the second battery receiving section 821 of the second storage section 82 are parallel. Therefore, the batteries stored in the first storage section 81, the batteries stored in the second storage section 82, and the batteries stored in the third storage section 83 are parallel. In other words, the storage section 8 of this embodiment stores multiple batteries such that the multiple central axes Ax1 of the multiple (3) batteries are parallel. By storing multiple batteries in the storage section 8 such that the multiple central axes Ax1 of the multiple batteries are parallel, the laser level 1 can be further miniaturized.
[0088] The third bottom plate 832 is located below the battery. The third bottom plate 832 is continuous with the third battery receiving portion 831. The third bottom plate 832 is formed in a flat shape. When the main legs 5 are in the closed position, the normal to the main surface of the third bottom plate 832 is parallel to the vertical direction. The third bottom plate 832 in this embodiment is provided with a positive electrode terminal 85. The main surface of the third bottom plate 832, the main surface of the first bottom plate 812 of the first storage portion 81, and the main surface of the second bottom plate 822 of the second storage portion 82 are all located on the same virtual plane.
[0089] As shown in Figure 8, the third top plate 833 is positioned above the battery. The third top plate 833 is continuous with the third battery receiving section 831. The third top plate 833 is formed in a flat shape. When the main legs 5 are in the closed position, the normal to the main surface of the third top plate 833 is parallel to the vertical direction. The third top plate 833 in this embodiment is provided with a negative electrode terminal 84. The main surface of the third top plate 833, the main surface of the first top plate 813 of the first storage section 81, and the main surface of the second top plate 823 of the second storage section 82 are all positioned on the same virtual plane.
[0090] As shown in Figure 8, the first storage section 81, the second storage section 82, and the third storage section 83 of this embodiment are arranged such that the three central axes Ax1 of the three batteries are aligned at equal intervals along the circumference of the virtual circle C1. In other words, the storage section 8 of this embodiment stores three batteries so that the three central axes Ax1 are aligned at equal intervals along the circumference of the virtual circle C1. By storing three or more batteries in the storage section 8 so that multiple central axes Ax1 are aligned at equal intervals along the circumference of the virtual circle C1, the miniaturization of the laser level 1 can be further improved.
[0091] Furthermore, in the laser level 1 of this embodiment, when the storage compartment 8 houses multiple (3) batteries and all three legs 31 are in the closed position, the center of gravity of the main body 2 and the center of gravity of the legs 3 coincide in a plan view from a direction along the multiple (3) central axes Ax1. Because the center of gravity of the main body 2 and the center of gravity of the legs 3 coincide in a plan view from a direction along the three central axes Ax1, the laser level 1 can be easily gripped when all three legs 31 are in the closed position.
[0092] As shown in Figure 7, the cover 86 is positioned inward (in front of) the base 80. The cover 86 is formed in a box shape with an open outer surface. The cover 86 is configured to cover the base 80 from the inside. The cover 86 has a first cover 87 (upper cover) and a second cover 88 (lower cover).
[0093] The first cover 87 is fixed to the upper part of the base 80. The first cover 87 constitutes at least a part of the storage section 8. The first cover 87 is formed in a box shape with an opening on the outer surface and the bottom surface.
[0094] The first cover 87 has a pair of projections 872 that protrude outward (rearward). The pair of projections 872 are configured to catch on a pair of hooks 885 of the second cover 88, which will be described later.
[0095] The second cover 88 is positioned below the first cover 87 and attached to the lower part of the base 80. In this embodiment, the second cover 88 is detachable from the base 80 and the first cover 87. The second cover 88 constitutes at least a part of the storage section 8. The second cover 88 is formed in a box shape with an open outer surface and top surface.
[0096] The second cover 88 has a first side plate 881, a pair of second side plates 882, a bottom plate 883, an inclined plate 884, and a hook portion 885.
[0097] The first side plate 881 is formed in a rectangular, flat shape. Furthermore, the first side plate 881 has an inward curve. When the main landing gear 5 is in the closed position, the first side plate 881 is formed so that its longitudinal direction aligns with the vertical direction.
[0098] The pair of second side plates 882 protrude outward from both ends of the first side plate 881 in a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction. Furthermore, the pair of second side plates 882 protrude in a direction that moves them away from each other as they approach the outside. The pair of second side plates 882 are formed in a rectangular, flat plate shape.
[0099] The inclined plate 884 protrudes outward from the lower end of the first side plate 881. More specifically, when the main leg 5 is in the closed position, the inclined plate 884 protrudes outward and downward from the lower end of the first side plate 881. The inclined plate 884 is formed to be continuous with the upper end of the first side plate 881 and the upper ends of the pair of second side plates 882. The inclined plate 884 is formed in a flat plate shape.
[0100] The contact surface (lower surface) 886 of the inclined plate 884 contacts the installation surface on which the laser level 1 (leg portion 3) is installed. More specifically, the contact surface 886 of the inclined plate 884 contacts the installation surface when the main legs 5 are in the open position. The contact surface 886 of the inclined plate 884 of the storage unit 8 with the installation surface improves the stability of the laser level 1 when it is installed on the installation surface. Furthermore, since the contact surface 886 is formed on the second cover 88, the stability of the laser level 1 can be maintained by replacing the second cover 888 if, for example, the contact surface 886 is damaged.
[0101] Furthermore, the contact surface 886 of the inclined plate 884 in this embodiment is configured to be parallel to the installation surface when the main legs 5 are in the open position. More specifically, when the leg portion 3 is installed on the installation surface with all three legs 31, including the main legs 5, in the open position, the contact surface 886 of the inclined plate 884 is parallel to the installation surface. Since the contact surface 886 of the inclined plate 884 and the installation surface are parallel when the main legs 5 are in the open position, the stability of the laser level 1 can be further improved.
[0102] Furthermore, since a contact surface 886 is formed in the storage section 8 of the main leg 5, which has the greatest mass among the three legs 31, the stability of the laser level 1 can be further improved.
[0103] The base plate 883 protrudes outward from the lower end of the inclined plate 884. The base plate 883 is formed in a flat shape. The normal to the main surface of the base plate 883 is parallel to the vertical direction when the main leg 5 is in the closed position.
[0104] A pair of hooks 885 are provided on the first side plate 881. The pair of hooks 885 protrude upward from the first side plate 881 and further protrude inward (forward). The pair of hooks 885 hook onto a pair of projections 872 of the first cover 87, thereby fixing the second cover 88 to the first cover 87 and the base 80.
[0105] (2.7) Accessory legs As shown in Figure 9, the sub-leg 4 of this embodiment has a second base portion 40 and a cushioning member (elastic member) 9.
[0106] (2.8)Second base As shown in Figure 9, the shape of the second base portion 40 in this embodiment is a box shape with an open inner surface. The second base portion 40 in this embodiment is formed of a synthetic resin such as polycarbonate resin.
[0107] The second base 40 includes a side plate 41, a bottom plate 42, a top plate 43, and a connecting portion 44.
[0108] The side plate 41 is formed in a rectangular, flat shape. Furthermore, the side plate 41 has a rounded shape that faces outwards.
[0109] The base plate 42 protrudes inward from the lower end of the side plate 41. The base plate 42 is formed in a flat shape. The normal to the main surface of the base plate 42 is parallel to the vertical direction when the auxiliary legs 4 are in the closed position.
[0110] The base plate 42 has a pair of holes 421 that penetrate through the base plate 42 in the thickness direction (vertical direction). The pair of holes 421 are round in shape. In the following description, when the individual holes 421 of the pair are not distinguished, each of the pair of holes 421 may simply be referred to as "hole 421".
[0111] The top plate 43 protrudes inward from the upper end of the side plate 41. The top plate 43 is formed in a flat shape. The normal to the main surface of the top plate 43 is parallel to the vertical direction when the auxiliary legs 4 are in the closed position. That is, the top plate 43 and the bottom plate 42 are parallel.
[0112] The connecting portion 44 protrudes upward from the top plate 43 when the auxiliary leg 4 is in the closed position. The connecting portion 44 has a projection 441 and a hole 442.
[0113] Hole 442 is a hole that penetrates the connecting portion 44 along a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction. The rotating shaft 25 of the main body 2 passes through hole 442. In other words, hole 442 functions as a bearing for the rotating shaft 25.
[0114] The projection 441 protrudes upward and outward from the upper end of the connecting portion 44 when the sub-leg 4 is in the closed position. The projection 441 is configured to hook onto multiple projections 261 of the main body 2, similar to the projection 561 of the main leg 5. Because the projection 441 hooks onto the multiple projections 261, the sub-leg 4 in this embodiment can rotate in steps between the closed position and the open position. In other words, because the projection 441 hooks onto the multiple projections 261, the sub-leg 4 can remain stationary at at least one intermediate position between the closed position and the open position. Since the sub-leg 4 is configured to rotate in steps between the closed position and the open position, the degree to which the sub-leg 4 is opened can be finely adjusted according to the conditions of the installation surface, thereby improving the stability of the laser level 1.
[0115] (2.9) Cushioning material As shown in Figure 9, the cushioning member 9 of this embodiment is L-shaped in a plan view from a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction (a direction along the rotation axis 25). The cushioning member 9 is made of a material that mitigates impact, such as urethane. The cushioning member 9 is positioned to cover at least a part of the second base portion 40. The cushioning member 9 comes into contact with the mounting surface when the laser level 1 is installed on the mounting surface. The contact of the cushioning member 9 with the mounting surface can further improve the stability of the laser level 1 when it is installed on the mounting surface.
[0116] The cushioning member 9 has a side plate 91, a bottom plate 92, a pair of protrusions 93, and a pair of stopper parts 94. In the following description, when the individual protrusions 93 of the pair are not distinguished, each of the pair of protrusions 93 may simply be referred to as "protrusion 93." Similarly, when the individual stopper parts 94 of the pair are not distinguished, each of the pair of stopper parts 94 may simply be referred to as "stopper part 94."
[0117] The side plate 91 is formed in a rectangular, flat shape. The side plate 91 is also rounded outwards. The side plate 91 is positioned outside the side plate 41 of the second base 40. More specifically, in this embodiment, the side plate 91 is positioned outside the side plate 41 of the second base 40, facing the side plate 41 of the second base 40 in close contact with it.
[0118] The bottom plate 92 protrudes inward from the lower end of the side plate 91. The bottom plate 92 is formed in a flat shape. The normal to the main surface of the bottom plate 92 is parallel to the vertical direction when the sub-leg 4 is in the closed position. The bottom plate 92 is positioned below the bottom plate 42 of the second base 40. More specifically, in this embodiment, the bottom plate 92 is positioned below the bottom plate 42 of the second base 40, facing the bottom plate 42 of the second base 40 in close contact with it. The bottom plate 92 is the part that comes into contact with the installation surface when the sub-leg 4 is installed on the installation surface.
[0119] The pair of protrusions 93 protrude upward from the base plate 92 when the sub-legs 4 are in the closed position. The pair of protrusions 93 are passed through the pair of holes 421 in the second base portion 40. In this embodiment, the protrusions 93 are formed in a cylindrical shape.
[0120] The pair of stopper portions 94 protrude outward from the upper ends of the pair of projections 93. The stopper portions 94 are formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape with a rounded upper side. The stopper portions 94 are positioned above the bottom plate 42 of the second base portion 40. More specifically, in this embodiment, the stopper portions 94 are positioned above the bottom plate 42 of the second base portion 40, facing the bottom plate 42 of the second base portion 40 in close contact with it. The outer ends of the stopper portions 94 are continuous with the side plate 91.
[0121] In this embodiment, the stopper portion 94 functions as a stopper that fixes the main landing gear 5 in the closed position when the auxiliary landing gear 4 is in the closed position. In other words, the auxiliary landing gear 4 in this embodiment has a stopper portion 94 that fixes the main landing gear 5 in the closed position when the auxiliary landing gear 4 is in the closed position.
[0122] As shown in Figure 10, when the sub-legs 4 and main legs 5 are in the closed position, the stopper portion 94 of the sub-leg 4 contacts the lower surface of the bottom plate 883 of the storage compartment 8 in the main leg 5. The contact of the stopper portion 94 with the lower surface of the bottom plate 883 of the storage compartment 8 prevents the main leg 5 from opening when the sub-legs 4 are in the closed position. In this embodiment, the main leg 5 will not open if at least one of the two sub-legs 4 is in the closed position. The presence of the stopper portion 94 on the sub-legs 4 reduces the likelihood of the main leg 5 opening when carrying the laser level 1, etc.
[0123] (2.10) Operation section The control unit 7 shown in Figures 2 and 3 receives operations to switch the power supply state from the three batteries housed in the storage unit 8 to the light source 10. In this embodiment, the control unit 7 is provided on the main landing gear 5. More specifically, in this embodiment, the control unit 7 is provided on the control board housed in the main landing gear 5.
[0124] For example, when the user presses and holds the control unit 7, the control board switches the power supply state (on / off) from the battery to the light source 10. Also, for example, when the user presses the control unit 7 briefly, the control board changes (adjusts) the brightness of the laser light emitted by the light source 10.
[0125] The control board is located between the first base 50 and the storage compartment 8 of the main landing gear 5. More specifically, the control board is located in an outward-facing recess formed by the first side plate 51, a pair of second side plates 52, a top plate 54, and a second bottom plate 57 of the first base 50.
[0126] The operating section 7 of this embodiment protrudes outward from the outer surface of the control board. The operating section 7 of this embodiment is formed in a cylindrical shape. As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the operating section 7 of this embodiment is exposed to the outside through the hole 611 of the cushioning member 6. As shown in Figure 3, the end of the operating section 7 of this embodiment is recessed from the outer surface of the first side plate 61 of the cushioning member 6 and the outer surface of the first side plate 51 of the first base 50. In other words, the operating section 7 of this embodiment is provided in a recessed position from the outer circumferential surface of the main leg 5. To put it another way, the operating section 7 of this embodiment is provided in a recessed position from the outer circumferential surface of the gripping section 59.
[0127] Because the main leg 5, which tends to have a greater mass than the sub-leg 4 due to the presence of the storage compartment 8, is equipped with the operating section 7, the stability of the laser level 1 when the operating section 7 is operated can be improved. Furthermore, since the operating section 7 in this embodiment is located in a recessed position from the outer surface of the main leg 5, the possibility of accidental operation when carrying the laser level 1 can be reduced.
[0128] (3) Variant The following lists some modifications of the above embodiment. The modifications described below can be combined and applied as appropriate.
[0129] In the above embodiment, the example shown is that the leg portion 3 has three legs 31, but the leg portion 3 may have four or more legs 31.
[0130] In the above embodiment, the case where the storage unit 8 stores three batteries was illustrated, but the number of batteries stored in the storage unit 8 can be one or more.
[0131] The batteries stored in the storage compartment 8 are not limited to AA size batteries; they may be other shapes and sizes, such as AAA size batteries. For example, the batteries stored in the storage compartment 8 may be rectangular batteries.
[0132] When the storage compartment 8 houses three or more batteries and all three or more legs 31 are in the closed position, the center of gravity of the laser level 1 may be located on the virtual axis Ax2 (see Figure 8). The virtual axis Ax2 is a virtual axis that is parallel to the multiple central axes Ax1 and passes through the center of the virtual circle C1. Having the center of gravity of the laser level 1 on the virtual axis Ax2, which is parallel to the multiple central axes Ax1 and passes through the center of the virtual circle C1, makes it easier to grip the laser level 1 when all three or more legs 31 are in the closed position.
[0133] The main landing gear 5 does not have to be just one. For example, the landing gear section 3 may have a first main landing gear and a second main landing gear. For example, the first main landing gear may have a storage section 8 and the second main landing gear may have a gripping section 59.
[0134] In the above embodiment, the main landing gear 5 is shown as having the greatest mass among the three legs 31 when the battery is not stored in the storage compartment 8. However, the main landing gear 5 may have a smaller mass than the secondary landing gear 4 when the battery is not stored in the storage compartment 8. For example, the main landing gear 5 may be configured to have the greatest mass among the three legs 31 when the battery is stored in the storage compartment 8.
[0135] (summary) As described above, the laser level (1) according to the first embodiment comprises a light source (6), a main body (2), and legs (3). The light source (6) emits laser light. The main body (2) holds the light source (6). The legs (3) are installed on a mounting surface and support the main body (2). The legs (3) have three or more legs (31) configured to be rotatable between a closed position and an open position. One of the three or more legs (31), which is the main leg (5), has a gripping portion (59). When all three or more legs (31) are in the closed position, the gripping portion (59) protrudes away from the center of the main body (2) along a direction intersecting the direction in which the main body (2) and the legs (3) are aligned.
[0136] According to this embodiment, the laser level (1) can be easily gripped by gripping the gripping portion (59) that protrudes in a direction away from the center of the main body (2) along the intersecting directions.
[0137] In the laser level (1) according to the second embodiment, the main leg (5) has a storage compartment (8). The storage compartment (8) houses a battery (B1) for emitting laser light from the light source (6).
[0138] According to this embodiment, since the main leg (5) having a storage section (8) is often larger in mass than the other legs (sub-legs 4), the stability when gripping the laser level (1) can be improved by having a gripping section (59) on the main leg (5), which is often larger in mass.
[0139] In the laser level (1) according to the third embodiment, in the first or second embodiment, the gripping portion (59) includes the portion furthest from the center of the main body (2) along the intersecting direction when all three or more legs (31) are in the closed position.
[0140] According to this embodiment, the gripping portion (59) includes the part of the main body (2) that is furthest from the center along the intersecting directions, making it easier to grip the laser level (1).
[0141] In the fourth embodiment of the laser level (1), in any of the first to third embodiments, the main leg (5) further comprises a buffer member (6). The buffer member (6) covers at least a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the gripping portion (59).
[0142] According to this embodiment, since at least a portion of the gripping portion (59) is covered with a cushioning member (6), the stability when the user grips the laser level (1) can be further improved.
[0143] In the laser level (1) according to the fifth embodiment, in any of the first to fourth embodiments, the main leg (5) has the largest mass among the three or more legs (31).
[0144] According to this embodiment, since the main leg (5), which has the greatest mass, has a gripping portion (59), the stability when the user grips the laser level (1) can be further improved.
[0145] The laser level (1) according to the sixth embodiment further comprises an operating unit (7) in any of the first to fifth embodiments. The operating unit (7) receives an operation to switch the power supply state from the battery to the light source (6). The operating unit (7) is provided on the main leg (5).
[0146] In this embodiment, the main leg (5) has a storage compartment (8) and therefore is often larger in mass than the other legs (sub-legs 4), which improves the stability of the laser level (1) when operating the control unit (7).
[0147] In the laser level (1) according to the seventh embodiment, the shape of the legs (3) is rod-shaped when all three or more legs (31) are in the closed position, as in the sixth embodiment. The operating section (7) is provided in a recessed position from the outer surface of the main legs (5).
[0148] According to this embodiment, since the operating section (7) is located in a recessed position from the outer surface of the main leg (5), the possibility of accidental operation when carrying the laser level (1) can be reduced.
[0149] In the laser level (1) according to the eighth embodiment, in any of the first to seventh embodiments, one or more of the three or more legs (31) are configured to be rotatable in steps between a closed position and an open position.
[0150] According to this embodiment, since one or more of the three or more legs (31) are configured to be rotatable in stages between a closed position and an open position, the degree to which the legs (31) are opened can be finely adjusted according to the condition of the installation surface, thereby improving the stability of the laser level (1).
[0151] In the laser level (1) according to the ninth embodiment, in any of the first to eighth embodiments, the main leg (5) has a storage section (8). The storage section (8) has a battery receiving section (first battery receiving section 811). The battery receiving section is formed to conform to a cylindrical battery. The battery receiving section has a projection (814) that protrudes toward the side surface of the battery.
[0152] In this configuration, the battery is separated from the battery receiving section (first battery receiving section 811), making it easier to remove the battery from the storage section (8).
[0153] In the laser level (1) according to the tenth embodiment, in any of the first to ninth embodiments, one or more legs (sub-legs 4) among the two or more legs (31) excluding the main leg (5) from the three or more legs (31) have a stopper portion (94). The stopper portion (94) fixes the main leg (5) in the closed position when one or more legs are in the closed position.
[0154] According to this embodiment, the main legs (5) can be made less likely to open when carrying the laser level (1), etc.
[0155] The configurations other than those in the first embodiment are not essential to the laser level (1) and can be omitted as appropriate. [Explanation of symbols]
[0156] 1. Laser level 10 light source 2 Main unit 3 legs 31 legs 5. Main landing gear 59 Gripping part 6. Cushioning material 7 Control section 8 Storage compartments 811 First battery receiving section (battery receiving section) 814 Protrusion 94 Stopper part
Claims
1. A light source that emits laser light, A main body that holds the light source, Legs that are installed on the mounting surface and support the main body, Equipped with, The leg portion has three or more legs configured to be rotatable between a closed position and an open position. The main leg, which is one of the three or more legs, has a gripping portion. The gripping portion, when all three or more legs are in the closed position, protrudes in a direction away from the center of the main body along a direction intersecting the direction in which the main body and the legs are aligned, The outer shape of the gripping portion is columnar in the direction of alignment when the main legs are in the closed position. Laser level.
2. The main leg has a housing for housing a battery for emitting the laser light from the light source. The laser level according to claim 1.
3. The gripping portion includes the portion furthest from the center of the main body along the intersecting direction when all three or more legs are in the closed position. The laser level according to claim 1 or 2.
4. The main leg further includes a cushioning member that covers at least a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the gripping portion. The laser level according to claim 1 or 2.
5. The main landing gear has the largest mass among the three or more legs. The laser level according to claim 1 or 2.
6. The system further includes an operating unit that accepts an operation to switch the power supply state from the battery to the light source, The aforementioned operating unit is provided on the main leg, The laser level according to claim 2.
7. The shape of the legs is rod-shaped when all three or more legs are in the closed position. The aforementioned operating section is provided in a recessed position from the outer surface of the main landing gear. The laser level according to claim 6.
8. One or more of the three or more legs are configured to be rotatable in stages between the closed position and the open position. The laser level according to claim 1 or 2.
9. The storage section has a battery receiving section formed to conform to the cylindrical battery, The battery receiving portion has a projection that protrudes toward the side surface of the battery. The laser level according to claim 2 or 6.
10. Of the three or more legs excluding the main leg, one or more of the legs have a stopper portion that fixes the main leg in the closed position when the one or more of the legs is in the closed position. The laser level according to claim 1 or 2.