Remote control device, connector, kit including connector and second connector, and method for using the remote control device.

Abstract

To provide a remotely operated implement, a connector, a kit including a connector and a second connector, and a method for using a remotely operated implement, with which deflection of a first operating rod and a second operating rod is suppressed, and smooth relative movement of the second operating rod relative to the first operating rod is permitted.SOLUTION: A remotely operated implement 1A is equipped with: a tool 2 having a first acting member 21 and a second acting member 22; a first operating rod 3 coupled to the first acting member; a second operating rod 4 coupled to the second acting member; an operation member 5 for remotely operating at least one of the first acting member and the second acting member; and a connector 6A for coupling the first operating rod and the second operating rod. The connector comprises: a first receiving part 61 for receiving a part of the first operating rod; a second receiving part 66 receiving a part of the second operating rod; and a first connection part 75 for coupling the first receiving part and the second receiving part. The second receiving part allows the second operating rod to relatively move in a lateral direction, relative to a second inner surface 67 of the second receiving part.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a remote control tool, a coupler, a kit including a coupler and a second coupler, and a method of using a remote control tool.

Background Art

[0002] A remote control working tool capable of gripping an object such as an overhead wire is known.

[0003] As a related technique, Patent Document 1 describes a remote control working tool. The remote control working tool described in Patent Document 1 includes a tip working tool, a main operation rod, an auxiliary operation rod, an operation handle, and a connection holder disposed at an intermediate portion of each of the main operation rod and the auxiliary operation rod to connect the main operation rod and the auxiliary operation rod. The connection holder has a first holding member, a second holding member, and a connection member. The connection holder is fixed to the main operation rod in a state where the main operation rod is sandwiched from both sides by the first holding member and the connection member, and is fixed to the auxiliary operation rod in a state where the auxiliary operation rod is sandwiched from both sides by the second holding member and the connection member.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] In the remote-controlled work device described in Patent Document 1, the connecting holder connects the main operating rod and the auxiliary operating rod, thereby suppressing bending of the main operating rod when the remote-controlled work device is in use. In the remote-controlled work device described in Patent Document 1, the main operating rod is held by a first holding member, and the auxiliary operating rod is held by a second holding member. Furthermore, in the remote-controlled work device described in Patent Document 1, the connecting member is rotatable relative to the first or second holding member, allowing for smooth relative movement of the main operating rod with respect to the auxiliary operating rod. However, the range in which such relative movement is possible is limited by the range in which the connecting member can rotate relative to the first or second holding member. Therefore, depending on the size of the work object being gripped or cut by the tip work tool, smooth relative movement of the main operating rod with respect to the auxiliary operating rod may be hindered.

[0006] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a remote control device, a connector, a kit including the connector and the second connector, and a method for using the remote control device, in which the deflection of the first and second operating rods is suppressed and smooth relative movement of the second operating rod with respect to the first operating rod is permitted. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The present invention relates to a remote control device, a connector, a kit including a connector and a second connector, and a method for using the remote control device, as described below.

[0008] (1) A tool having a first working member and a second working member, wherein the first working member and the second working member are capable of gripping or cutting an object, A first operating rod connected to the first operating member, A second operating rod connected to the second operating member, An operating member connected to the first operating rod and the second operating rod, which remotely operates at least one of the first operating member and the second operating member by moving the second operating rod relative to the first operating rod, In the region between the tool and the operating member, a connector is provided to connect the first operating rod and the second operating rod. It is equipped with, The aforementioned connector is A first receiving portion having a first inner surface for holding the first operating rod and defining a first region for receiving a part of the first operating rod, A second receiving portion having a second inner surface that can contact the second operating rod, defining a second region that receives a part of the second operating rod, and allowing the second operating rod to move laterally relative to the second inner surface within the second region, A first connecting portion that connects the first receiving portion and the second receiving portion Equipped with Remote control device. (2) With the connector attached to the first operating rod and the second operating rod, the connector is slidable relative to the first operating rod along the longitudinal direction of the first operating rod. The remote control device described in (1) above. (3) When the direction from the first receiving portion toward the second receiving portion is defined as the first transverse direction, and the direction from the second receiving portion toward the first receiving portion is defined as the second transverse direction, the second inner surface of the second receiving portion is A first contact surface is positioned on the first lateral side of the second region and prevents an increase in the distance between the first operating rod and the second operating rod, A second contact surface is positioned on the second lateral side of the second region and prevents a decrease in the distance between the first operating rod and the second operating rod. Equipped with, The second region between the first contact surface and the second contact surface allows for an increase in the distance between the first operating rod and the second operating rod, and a decrease in the distance between the first operating rod and the second operating rod. The remote control device described in (1) above. (4) When the direction from the first receiving portion toward the second receiving portion is defined as the first transverse direction, and the direction from the second receiving portion toward the first receiving portion is defined as the second transverse direction, the second inner surface of the second receiving portion is A first contact surface is positioned on the first lateral side of the second region and prevents an increase in the distance between the first operating rod and the second operating rod, A second contact surface is positioned on the second lateral side of the second region and prevents a decrease in the distance between the first operating rod and the second operating rod. Equipped with, The second region between the first contact surface and the second contact surface allows for an increase in the distance between the first operating rod and the second operating rod, and a decrease in the distance between the first operating rod and the second operating rod. The remote control device described in (2) above. (5) The first region and the second region differ in shape or size. A remote control device as described in any one of the above (1) through (4). (6) When viewed in the direction along the longitudinal direction of the second operating rod, the second region has an elongated shape that is long in the transverse direction. The remote control device described in (5) above. (7) In the region between the tool and the connector, a second connector is further provided to connect the first operating rod and the second operating rod, The second connector is, A third receiving portion having a third inner surface for holding the first operating rod and defining a third region for receiving a part of the first operating rod, A fourth receiving portion having a fourth inner surface that can contact the second operating rod, defining a fourth region that receives a part of the second operating rod, and allowing the second operating rod to move relative to the fourth inner surface in the lateral direction within the fourth region, A second connecting portion that connects the third receiving portion and the fourth receiving portion. Equipped with, The length of the second connecting portion is shorter than the length of the first connecting portion. A remote control device as described in any one of the above (1) through (4). (8) A connector that connects a first operating rod of a remote control device to a second operating rod of the remote control device, thereby suppressing the bending of the first operating rod and the second operating rod, A first receiving portion having a first inner surface capable of holding the first operating rod and defining a first region for receiving a part of the first operating rod; A second receiving portion having a second inner surface capable of contacting the second operating rod, defining a second region for receiving a part of the second operating rod, and allowing the second operating rod to move laterally relative to the second inner surface in the second region; A first connecting portion connecting the first receiving portion and the second receiving portion; Comprising Connector. (9) The first connecting portion connects the first receiving portion and the second receiving portion so as to be able to change the distance between the first receiving portion and the second receiving portion, or connects the first receiving portion and the second receiving portion so as to allow relative rotation between the first receiving portion and the second receiving portion, or connects the first receiving portion and the second receiving portion so as to be able to change the distance between the first receiving portion and the second receiving portion and allow relative rotation between the first receiving portion and the second receiving portion The connector according to (8) above. (10) The connector according to (8) or (9) above, and A second connector Comprising The second connector A third receiving portion having a third inner surface capable of holding the first operating rod and defining a third region for receiving a part of the first operating rod; A fourth receiving portion having a fourth inner surface capable of contacting the second operating rod, defining a fourth region for receiving a part of the second operating rod, and allowing the second operating rod to move laterally relative to the fourth inner surface in the fourth region; A second connecting portion connecting the third receiving portion and the fourth receiving portion; Comprising The length of the first connecting portion and the length of the second connecting portion are different from each other, or at least one of the length of the first connecting portion and the length of the second connecting portion is adjustable A kit including a connector and a second connector. (11) A method of using a remote control device, wherein The remote control device A tool having a first working member and a second working member, the first working member and the second working member capable of gripping or cutting an object, A first operating rod connected to the first operating member, A second operating rod connected to the second operating member, An operating member connected to the first operating rod and the second operating rod, which remotely operates at least one of the first operating member and the second operating member by moving the second operating rod relative to the first operating rod, In the region between the tool and the operating member, a connector is provided to connect the first operating rod and the second operating rod. It is equipped with, The aforementioned connector is A first receiving portion having a first inner surface for holding the first operating rod and defining a first region for receiving a part of the first operating rod, A second receiving portion having a second inner surface that can contact the second operating rod and defining a second region that receives a part of the second operating rod, A first connecting portion that connects the first receiving portion and the second receiving portion Equipped with, The aforementioned method of use is A step of operating the operating member so that the second operating rod moves relative to the first operating rod, A step of applying a gripping force or cutting force to the object from the first working member and the second working member by the relative movement of the second working rod with respect to the first working rod, A step of moving the second operating rod laterally relative to the second inner surface in the second region defined by the second receiving portion, in accordance with the relative movement of the second operating rod with respect to the first operating rod. Equipped with Instructions for using remote control devices. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] The present invention provides a remote control device, a connector, a kit including the connector and the second connector, and a method for using the remote control device, in which the deflection of the first and second operating rods is suppressed and smooth relative movement of the second operating rod with respect to the first operating rod is permitted. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic side view illustrating the state of the remote control device before the connector is attached to the operating rod in the first embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a schematic side view illustrating the remote control device in the first embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a schematic perspective view illustrating an example of a connector. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating an example of a connector. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a schematic side view illustrating the remote control device in the second embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 schematically shows how the connector can slide along the longitudinal direction of the first operating rod. [Figure 7] Figure 7 schematically shows how at least one of the first operating rod and the second operating rod deforms by bending. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating an example of a connector. [Figure 9] Figure 9 schematically shows a state in which multiple connectors are attached to the first and second operating rods. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating an example of a second connector. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a schematic side view showing an enlarged example of an operating member. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a schematic three-view drawing illustrating the connector in the third embodiment. [Figure 13]Figure 13 schematically shows the connector in the first modified example of the third embodiment and the connector in the second modified example of the third embodiment. [Figure 14] Figure 14 schematically shows the connector in a third modified example of the third embodiment and the connector in a fourth modified example of the third embodiment. [Figure 15] Figure 15 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a kit including the connector and the second connector in the fourth embodiment. [Figure 16] Figure 16 is a schematic diagram showing another example of a kit including the connector and the second connector in the fourth embodiment. [Figure 17] Figure 17 is a flowchart showing an example of how to use the remote control device in the embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0011] The following describes in detail, with reference to the drawings, the remote control device 1, the connector 6, the kit K including the connector 6 and the second connector 8, and the method of using the remote control device 1 in this embodiment. In this specification, components having the same or similar functions are denoted by the same or similar reference numerals. In some cases, repeated descriptions of components denoted by the same or similar reference numerals may be omitted.

[0012] (Definition of direction) As can be seen from Figure 2, etc., in this specification, the direction from the first receiving portion 61 of the connector 6 toward the second receiving portion 66 of the connector 6 is defined as the "first lateral direction DT1", and the direction from the second receiving portion 66 of the connector 6 toward the first receiving portion 61 of the connector 6 is defined as the "second lateral direction DT2". Furthermore, the first lateral direction DT1 and the second lateral direction DT2 are collectively referred to as the "lateral direction DT". In other words, the lateral direction DT encompasses both the first lateral direction DT1 and the second lateral direction DT2. When the first operating rod 3 is received in the first receiving portion 61 and the second operating rod 4 is received in the second receiving portion 66, the direction from the first operating rod 3 toward the second operating rod 4 coincides with the "first lateral direction DT1", and the direction from the second operating rod 4 toward the first operating rod 3 coincides with the "second lateral direction DT2".

[0013] (First Embodiment) The remote control device 1A in the first embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 4. Figure 1 is a schematic side view showing the state before the connector 6A is attached to the operating rods (3, 4) of the remote control device 1A in the first embodiment. Figure 2 is a schematic side view showing the remote control device 1A in the first embodiment. Figures 1(a) and 2(a) show the state before the object T is grasped by the remote control device 1A, and Figures 1(b) and 2(b) show the state after the object T is grasped by the remote control device 1A. Figure 3 is a schematic perspective view showing an example of the connector 6A. Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an example of the connector 6A. Figure 4(a) shows the state before the connector 6A is attached to the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4, Figure 4(b) shows the cross-sectional view taken along arrow AA in Figure 2(a), and Figure 4(c) shows the cross-sectional view taken along arrow BB in Figure 2(b).

[0014] The remote control device 1A in the first embodiment comprises a tool 2, a first operating rod 3, a second operating rod 4, an operating member 5, and a connector 6A (see Figure 2(a)).

[0015] In the example shown in Figure 1(a), the tool 2 is a gripping tool 2A capable of gripping an object T with a first working member 21 and a second working member 22. The tool 2 has a first working member 21 and a second working member 22. The first working member 21 has a first working portion 212 that contacts the object T, and the second working member 22 has a second working portion 222 that contacts the object T.

[0016] As illustrated in Figure 1(a), when tool 2 is a gripping tool 2A, the first working member 21 is the first gripping member 21a, and the first working part 212 is the first gripping part 212a. Also, the second working member 22 is the second gripping member 22a, and the second working part 222 is the second gripping part 222a.

[0017] The first operating rod 3 is connected to the first operating member 21, and the second operating rod 4 is connected to the second operating member 22. In the example shown in Figure 1(a), the tip 3a of the first operating rod 3 is connected to the base end 214 of the first operating member 21, and the tip 4a of the second operating rod 4 is connected to the base end 224 of the second operating member 22.

[0018] The operating member 5 is connected to the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4, respectively. The operating member 5 remotely controls at least one of the first operating member 21 and the second operating member 22 by moving the second operating rod 4 relative to the first operating rod 3. Note that moving the second operating rod 4 relative to the first operating rod 3 may be done by moving the second operating rod 4, by moving the first operating rod 3, or by moving both the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4.

[0019] In the example shown in Figure 1(a), when the operating member 5 is operated in the first operating direction MR1, the distance between the first working part 212 and the second working part 222 decreases, and the object T is gripped by the first working member 21 and the second working member 22 (see Figure 1(b)). On the other hand, when the operating member 5 is operated in the second operating direction MR2, the distance between the first working part 212 and the second working part 222 increases, and the grip of the object T by the first working member 21 and the second working member 22 is released (see Figure 1(a)).

[0020] As illustrated in Figure 1(b), when the operating member 5 is operated in the first operating direction MR1 while the object T is in contact with the first operating part 212 and the second operating part 222, at least one of the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4 will bend. This bending reduces the gripping force acting on the object T. Furthermore, repeated large bending of the operating rods (3, 4) may cause deterioration of the operating rods (3, 4). For example, the shape of the operating rods (3, 4) may not return to the default shape shown in Figure 1(a), or the operating rods (3, 4) may break.

[0021] Therefore, as illustrated in Figure 2(a), the remote control device 1A in the first embodiment includes a connector 6A that suppresses the bending of the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4.

[0022] The connector 6A connects the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4 in the region between the tool 2 and the operating member 5. The connector 6A includes a first receiving portion 61 that receives a part of the first operating rod 3 (in other words, a part of the long first operating rod 3), a second receiving portion 66 that receives a part of the second operating rod 4 (in other words, a part of the long second operating rod 4), and a first connecting portion 75 that connects the first receiving portion 61 and the second receiving portion 66.

[0023] As illustrated in Figure 3, the first receiving portion 61 has a first side opening OP1 through which the first operating rod 3 can pass, and the second receiving portion 66 has a second side opening OP2 through which the second operating rod 4 can pass. When the first receiving portion 61 has the first side opening OP1, the first receiving portion 61 can be quickly attached to the first operating rod 3 with a single touch (in other words, in one step). Also, when the second receiving portion 66 has the second side opening OP2, the second receiving portion 66 can be quickly attached to the second operating rod 4 with a single touch (in other words, in one step).

[0024] In the first embodiment, the first side opening OP1 and the second side opening OP2 may be omitted. For example, if the connector 6A has a first half and a second half, the first half and the second half may be arranged so as to sandwich the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4, and then the first half and the second half may be connected to each other. In this way, the connector 6A having the first half and the second half can be attached to the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4. However, from the viewpoint of quick attachment, it is more preferable that the first receiving portion 61 has a first side opening OP1 and the second receiving portion 66 has a second side opening OP2.

[0025] As illustrated in Figures 4(b) and 4(c), the first receiving portion 61 has a first inner surface 62 that holds the first operating rod 3. As illustrated in Figure 4(a), the first receiving portion 61 defines a first region AR1 that receives a portion of the first operating rod 3 (in other words, a portion of the long first operating rod 3). In the example shown in Figure 4(a), the first region AR1 is defined by the first inner surface 62 of the first receiving portion 61. More specifically, the region inside the first inner surface 62 of the first receiving portion 61 is the first region AR1.

[0026] As illustrated in Figure 4(a), the second receiving portion 66 has a second inner surface 67 that can contact the second operating rod 4. The second receiving portion 66 defines a second region AR2 that receives a portion of the second operating rod 4 (in other words, a portion of the long second operating rod 4). In the example shown in Figure 4(a), the second region AR2 is defined by the second inner surface 67 of the second receiving portion 66. More specifically, the region inside the second inner surface 67 of the second receiving portion 66 is the second region AR2.

[0027] In the example shown in Figure 4(b), the second region AR2 (see the region with dot hatching) encompasses the entire cross-section of the second operating rod 4 (in other words, the cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the second operating rod 4).

[0028] As illustrated in Figures 4(b) and 4(c), the second region AR2 allows the second operating rod 4 to move relative to the second inner surface 67 in the lateral direction DT. For example, in the example shown in Figure 2(a), when the operating member 5 is operated in the first operating direction MR1, the rotation of the arm 55a causes the second operating rod 4 to be displaced in the direction from the tip 4a to the base 4b, as well as in the lateral direction DT (more specifically, the first lateral direction DT1) (see Figure 2(b)). Because the second region AR2 allows the second operating rod 4 to be displaced in the lateral direction DT, the second operating rod 4 can move relative to the first operating rod 3 smoothly.

[0029] Furthermore, in the example shown in Figure 2(b), when an operating force is applied to the operating member 5, and a reaction force from the object T is applied to the first operating member 21 and the second operating member 22, the first operating rod 3 bends in the lateral direction DT (for example, the second lateral direction DT2). Due to this bending, the connector 6A is displaced relative to the second operating rod 4 in the lateral direction DT (for example, the second lateral direction DT2). The second region AR2 described above allows the relative displacement of the connector 6A in the lateral direction DT with respect to the second operating rod 4, so that the bending of the first operating rod 3 does not hinder the smooth relative movement of the second operating rod 4 with respect to the first operating rod 3. In addition, the bending of the first operating rod 3 does not reduce the range of motion of the operating member 5.

[0030] In contrast, if the first operating rod is held by the first receiving portion 61 so as not to move laterally, and the second operating rod 4 is held by the second receiving portion 66 so as not to move laterally, when at least one of the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4 is displaced or bent in the lateral direction DT, the frictional force acting between the first receiving portion 61 and the first operating rod 3 increases, and the frictional force acting between the second receiving portion 66 and the second operating rod 4 increases. As a result, the smooth relative movement of the second operating rod 4 with respect to the first operating rod 3 is hindered, and the range of motion of the operating member 5 decreases. Furthermore, if the operating member 5 is forcibly operated while the frictional force is large, the surfaces of the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4 may be damaged by friction.

[0031] On the other hand, in the examples shown in Figures 4(b) and 4(c), the timing from when the operating member 5 is operated until the second operating rod 4 contacts the first contact surface 67a on the first lateral DT1 side of the second inner surface 67 can be delayed. By delaying this timing, the frictional force acting between the receiving portion (61, 66) and the operating rod (3, 4) when the operating member 5 is operated can be reduced. In addition, damage to the surfaces of the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4 due to friction is suppressed.

[0032] Furthermore, in the example shown in Figure 2(a), if the mounting position of the connector 6A is moved closer to the tip (3a, 4a), the initial position of the second operating rod 4 can be moved even further away from the first contact surface 67a on the first lateral direction DT1 side. As a result, the timing until the second operating rod 4 contacts the first contact surface 67a can be further delayed, and the frictional force acting between the receiving portion (61, 66) and the operating rod (3, 4) when the operating member 5 is operated can be further reduced.

[0033] In the first embodiment, the remote control device 1A includes a connector 6A that connects the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4. The second region AR2 defined by the second receiving portion 66 of the connector 6A allows the second operating rod 4 to move relative to the second inner surface 67 in the lateral direction DT. Thus, the connector 6A suppresses the deflection of the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4, and the second region AR2 allows smooth relative movement of the second operating rod 4 with respect to the first operating rod 3.

[0034] (Second embodiment) The remote control device 1B in the second embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 5. Figure 5 is a schematic side view illustrating the remote control device 1B in the second embodiment. Figure 5(a) shows the state before the object T is cut by the remote control device 1B, and Figure 5(b) shows the state in which the cutting of the object T is being performed by the remote control device 1B.

[0035] The remote control device 1B in the second embodiment differs from the remote control device 1A in the first embodiment in that the tool 2 is a cutting tool 2B. In other respects, the second embodiment is the same as the first embodiment.

[0036] In the second embodiment, the focus will be on the differences from the first embodiment, and repetitive explanations of matters already explained in the first embodiment will be omitted. Therefore, it goes without saying that even if not explicitly explained in the second embodiment, matters already explained in the first embodiment can be adopted in the second embodiment.

[0037] The remote control device 1B in the second embodiment comprises a tool 2, a first operating rod 3, a second operating rod 4, an operating member 5, and a connector 6A.

[0038] In the example shown in Figure 5(a), the tool 2 is a cutting tool 2B capable of cutting an object T with a first working member 21 and a second working member 22. The tool 2 has a first working member 21 and a second working member 22. The first working member 21 has a first working portion 212 that contacts the object T, and the second working member 22 has a second working portion 222 that contacts the object T.

[0039] As illustrated in Figure 5(a), when tool 2 is a cutting tool 2B, the first working member 21 is the first cutting member 21b, and the first working part 212 is the first cutting blade 212b. Also, the second working member 22 is the second cutting member 22b, and the second working part 222 is the second cutting blade 222b.

[0040] The first operating rod 3 is connected to the first operating member 21, and the second operating rod 4 is connected to the second operating member 22. In the example shown in Figure 5(a), the tip 3a of the first operating rod 3 is connected to the base end 214 of the first operating member 21, and the tip 4a of the second operating rod 4 is connected to the base end 224 of the second operating member 22.

[0041] The operating member 5 is connected to the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4, respectively. The operating member 5 remotely controls at least one of the first operating member 21 and the second operating member 22 by moving the second operating rod 4 relative to the first operating rod 3. Note that moving the second operating rod 4 relative to the first operating rod 3 may be done by moving the second operating rod 4, by moving the first operating rod 3, or by moving both the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4.

[0042] In the example shown in Figure 5(a), when the operating member 5 is operated in the first operating direction MR1, the distance between the first working part 212 and the second working part 222 decreases, and the object T is cut by the first working member 21 and the second working member 22 (see Figure 5(b)). On the other hand, when the operating member 5 is operated in the second operating direction MR2, the distance between the first working part 212 and the second working part 222 increases, and the first working member 21 and the second working member 22 return to their original positions (see Figure 5(a)).

[0043] The connector 6A connects the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4 in the region between the tool 2 and the operating member 5. The connector 6A includes a first receiving portion 61 that receives a part of the first operating rod 3 (in other words, a part of the long first operating rod 3), a second receiving portion 66 that receives the second operating rod 4 (in other words, a part of the long second operating rod 4), and a first connecting portion 75 that connects the first receiving portion 61 and the second receiving portion 66.

[0044] The connector 6A of the remote control device 1B in the second embodiment is the same as the connector 6A of the remote control device 1A in the first embodiment. Therefore, the explanation of the connector 6A will refer to the explanation of the connector 6A in the first embodiment, and any repetitive explanation of the connector 6A will be omitted.

[0045] The remote control device 1B in the second embodiment provides the same effects as the remote control device 1A in the first embodiment.

[0046] Next, with reference to Figures 1 to 11, optional additional configurations that can be adopted in the remote control device 1A in the first embodiment or the remote control device 1B in the second embodiment will be described. Figure 6 is a schematic diagram showing how the connector 6 can slide along the longitudinal direction of the first operating rod 3. Figure 7 is a schematic diagram showing how at least one of the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4 deforms by bending. Figure 7(a) shows how at least one of the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4 bends outward, and Figure 7(b) shows how at least one of the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4 bends inward. Figure 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an example of the connector 6A. Figure 9 is a schematic diagram showing a state in which a plurality of connectors (6, 8) are attached to the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4. Figure 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an example of the second connector 8A. Figure 10(a) shows the state before the second connector 8A is attached to the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4, and Figure 10(b) shows a cross-sectional view taken along the CC arrow in Figure 9. Figure 11 is a schematic side view showing an enlarged example of the operating member 5. Figure 11(a) shows the state before the operating member 5 is operated in the first operating direction MR1, and Figure 11(b) shows the state after the operating member 5 has been operated in the first operating direction MR1.

[0047] (Connector 6A) The optional additional configurations for connector 6A will now be described. Note that these optional additional configurations for connector 6A can be adopted not only in the first and second embodiments, but also in the connector 6 in the third embodiment described later, or in the connector 6 of kit K in the fourth embodiment.

[0048] In the examples shown in Figures 6(a) and 6(b), with the connector 6A attached to the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4, the connector 6A is slidable relative to the first operating rod 3 along the longitudinal direction of the first operating rod 3.

[0049] As illustrated in Figure 6(b), by sliding the connector 6A along the first operating rod 3 toward the tip 3a of the first operating rod 3 (see arrow F1), the position of the first contact surface 67a on the first lateral direction DT1 side can be moved further away from the second operating rod 4. Therefore, when the distance between the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4 is increased by the operation of the operating member 5, the timing at which the second operating rod 4 contacts the first contact surface 67a on the first lateral direction DT1 side can be delayed. As a result, the second operating rod 4 can be moved smoothly relative to the first operating rod 3.

[0050] On the other hand, as illustrated in Figure 6(a), by sliding the connector 6A along the first operating rod 3 toward the base end 3b of the first operating rod 3 (see arrow F2), the position of the first contact surface 67a on the first lateral direction DT1 side can be brought closer to the position of the second operating rod 4. Therefore, when the gap between the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4 is increased by the operation of the operating member 5, the timing at which the second operating rod 4 contacts the first contact surface 67a on the first lateral direction DT1 side can be made earlier. As a result, the bending of the first operating rod 3 toward the second operating rod 4 (or the bending of the second operating rod 4 toward the first operating rod 3) is suppressed more early.

[0051] Figure 2(b) shows an example in which, when the operating member 5 is operated, one of the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4 bends in a direction away from the other of the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4 (hereinafter referred to as the "outward bending direction"). On the other hand, depending on the size of the object T, the arrangement of the connector 6A, the arrangement of the second connector 8A described later, the structure and arrangement of the mechanism that transmits the operating force from the operating member 5 to the first operating rod 3 or the second operating rod 4, when the operating member 5 is operated, one of the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4 may bend in a direction toward the other of the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4 (hereinafter referred to as the "inward bending direction") (see Figure 7(b)).

[0052] In contrast, in the example shown in Figure 4(b), the second inner surface 67 of the second receiving portion 66 includes a first contact surface 67a that suppresses the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4 from bending outward, and a second contact surface 67b that suppresses the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4 from bending inward. More specifically, the first contact surface 67a is positioned on the first lateral DT1 side of the second region AR2 and, by contact with the second operating rod 4 (see Figure 7(a)), prevents an increase in the gap between the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4. In this way, excessive bending of the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4 in the outward bending direction is prevented. The second contact surface 67b is positioned on the second lateral DT2 side of the second region AR2 and, by contact with the second operating rod 4 (see Figure 7(b)), prevents a decrease in the gap between the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4. In this way, the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4 are prevented from bending excessively in the inward direction.

[0053] In addition, in the example shown in Figure 4(b), the second region AR2 between the first contact surface 67a and the second contact surface 67b allows for an increase in the distance between the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4, and a decrease in the distance between the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4. In other words, the second region AR2 allows for a moderate degree of deflection of the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4.

[0054] As described above, the connector 6A ensures smooth relative movement of the second operating rod 4 with respect to the first operating rod 3 by allowing both moderate outward bending and moderate inward bending of the operating rods (3, 4). Furthermore, the connector 6A prevents both excessive outward bending and excessive inward bending of the operating rods (3, 4). As a result of preventing excessive bending, a decrease in the gripping or cutting force acting on the object T is suppressed, and deterioration of the operating rods (3, 4) is suppressed.

[0055] Furthermore, as illustrated in Figures 7(a) and 7(b), it is preferable that at least one of the following is permitted when the second operating rod 4 is in contact with the first contact surface 67a or the second contact surface 67b: relative sliding movement of the connector 6A (more specifically, the second receiving portion 66) relative to the second operating rod 4, and relative sliding movement of the connector 6A (more specifically, the first receiving portion 61) relative to the first operating rod 3. In this case, even after the second operating rod 4 has come into contact with the first contact surface 67a or the second contact surface 67b, relative movement of the second operating rod 4 relative to the first operating rod 3 becomes possible, and operation of the operating member 5 can be continued. For example, the second operating rod 4 may be configured to slide relative to the second receiving portion 66 after it has contacted the first contact surface 67a or the second contact surface 67b (see arrow F3), and then the first receiving portion 61 may slide relative to the first operating rod 3 (see arrow F4).

[0056] As illustrated in Figure 4(a), the first receiving portion 61 has a shape suitable for holding the first operating rod 3. More specifically, it is preferable that the first inner surface 62 of the first receiving portion 61 has a shape that fits into the first operating rod 3 (and it is preferable that this "fitting" is a fit that allows the first receiving portion 61 to slide relative to the first operating rod 3 along the longitudinal direction of the first operating rod 3). On the other hand, the second receiving portion 66 has a shape that allows the second operating rod 4 to move laterally DT inside the second receiving portion 66.

[0057] Since the functions required of the first receiving portion 61 and the functions required of the second receiving portion 66 are different, it is preferable that the first region AR1 defined by the first receiving portion 61 (more specifically, the first region AR1 inside the first inner surface 62) and the second region AR2 defined by the second receiving portion 66 (more specifically, the second region AR2 inside the second inner surface 67) differ in shape or size. Alternatively, (1) the shape and size of the first region AR1 may be the same as the shape and size of the second region AR2, (2) the outer shape of the first operating rod 3 may be a shape that fits just into the first region AR1, and (3) the outer shape of the second operating rod 4 may be a shape that can move laterally DT within the second region AR2. In this case as well, it is possible to ensure both the functions required of the first receiving portion 61 and the functions required of the second receiving portion 66.

[0058] In order to ensure the function required of the first receiving portion 61 (the function of holding the first operating rod 3), it is preferable that the shape of the first inner surface 62 of the first receiving portion 61 is a shape that fits the outer shape of the first operating rod 3, as illustrated in Figure 4(a). For example, if the outer shape of the first operating rod 3 is a perfect circle, it is preferable that the first inner surface 62 has a shape complementary to that perfect circle (more specifically, an arc shape that fits the perfect circle). Furthermore, when the first receiving portion 61 is attached to the first operating rod 3, it is preferable that there is no gap between the first receiving portion 61 and the first operating rod 3 that would induce looseness of the first operating rod 3.

[0059] In order to ensure the function required of the second receiving portion 66 (the function of allowing lateral movement of the second operating rod 4), the second region AR2 may have an elongated shape that is long in the lateral direction DT when viewed in the direction along the longitudinal direction of the second operating rod 4 (more specifically, it may have an elongated shape with a major axis along the lateral direction DT). This elongated shape may also be oval. In the example shown in Figure 4(b), the shape of the second region AR2 is flatter than the shape of the first region AR1 when viewed in the direction along the longitudinal direction of the second operating rod 4.

[0060] In the example shown in Figure 8, the opening width W1 of the first side opening OP1 of the first receiving portion 61 (hereinafter referred to as "first opening width W1") is different from the opening width W2 of the second side opening OP2 of the second receiving portion 66 (hereinafter referred to as "second opening width W2"). ​​Preferably, the first opening width W1 is smaller than the outer diameter D1 of the first operating rod 3. In this case, it is prevented or suppressed that the first operating rod 3, which is received in the first receiving portion 61, will unintentionally fall out of the first receiving portion 61 through the first side opening OP1. Preferably, the second opening width W2 is smaller than the outer diameter D2 of the second operating rod 4. In this case, it is prevented or suppressed that the second operating rod 4, which is received in the second receiving portion 66, will unintentionally fall out of the second receiving portion 66 through the second side opening OP2. Furthermore, in order to prevent the first operating rod 3 from falling out of the first receiving portion 61, the connector 6A may have an opening / closing member that can open and close the first side opening OP1. Also, in order to prevent the second operating rod 4 from falling out of the second receiving portion 66, the connector 6A may have an opening / closing member that can open and close the second side opening OP2.

[0061] When the remote control device 1 is in use, the second operating rod 4, which can move laterally DT within the second region AR2, may pass through the second side opening OP2 and fall out of the second receiving portion 66 due to the momentum of its movement. On the other hand, since the first operating rod 3 is substantially immobile in the laterally DT within the first region AR1, the possibility of the first operating rod 3 passing through the first side opening OP1 and falling out of the first receiving portion 61 is relatively low. Therefore, unlike the example shown in Figure 8, the value V2 obtained by subtracting the second opening width W2 from the outer diameter D2 of the second operating rod 4 may be set to a value larger than the value V1 obtained by subtracting the first opening width W1 from the outer diameter D1 of the first operating rod 3. When the value V2 is large, the possibility of the second operating rod 4 passing through the second side opening OP2 and falling out of the second receiving portion 66 when the remote control device 1 is in use is reduced.

[0062] (Second connector 8A) As illustrated in Figure 9, the remote control device 1 may include a second connector 8A in addition to the connector 6A. Furthermore, the remote control device 1 may also include a third connector in addition to the connector 6A and the second connector 8A.

[0063] In the example shown in Figure 9, the second connector 8A connects the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4 in the region between the tool 2 and the connector 6A. The second connector 8A includes a third receiving portion 81, a fourth receiving portion 86, and a second connecting portion 95.

[0064] In the example shown in Figure 10(a), the third receiving portion 81 has a third inner surface 82 that holds the first operating rod 3. The third receiving portion 81 also defines a third region AR3 that receives a portion of the first operating rod 3.

[0065] In the example shown in Figure 10(a), the fourth receiving portion 86 has a fourth inner surface 87 that can contact the second operating rod 4. The fourth receiving portion 86 also defines a fourth region AR4 that receives a portion of the second operating rod 4. This fourth region AR4 allows the second operating rod 4 to move relative to the fourth inner surface 87 in the lateral direction DT (see Figure 10(b)).

[0066] The second connecting portion 95 connects the third receiving portion 81 and the fourth receiving portion 86. In the example shown in Figure 9, the length of the second connecting portion 95 (in other words, the distance between the third receiving portion 81 and the fourth receiving portion 86) is shorter than the length of the first connecting portion 75 (in other words, the distance between the first receiving portion 61 and the second receiving portion 66).

[0067] The second connector 8A may have the same structure and / or shape as the connector 6A, except that the length of the second connector 95 and the length of the first connector 75 are different. Furthermore, in this specification, all descriptions of the above-mentioned connector 6A are considered to be descriptions of the second connector 8A by replacing "first receiving portion 61", "first inner surface 62", "second receiving portion 66", "second inner surface 67", "first contact surface 67a", "second contact surface 67b", "first connecting portion 75", "first region AR1", "second region AR2", "first side opening OP1", and "second side opening OP2" with "third receiving portion 81", "third inner surface 82", "fourth receiving portion 86", "fourth inner surface 87", "third contact surface 87a", "fourth contact surface 87b", "second connecting portion 95", "third region AR3", "fourth region AR4", "third side opening OP3", and "fourth side opening OP4", respectively, and repeating descriptions of the second connector 8A are omitted.

[0068] In the embodiment, if the remote control device 1 has a second connector 8A in addition to the connector 6A, the deflection of the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4 can be suppressed even more effectively. Furthermore, by having different lengths for the first connecting portion 75 of the connector 6A and the second connecting portion 95 of the second connector 8A, it is possible to flexibly accommodate the difference between the distance G1 (see Figure 9) between the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4 in the area where the connector 6A is located and the distance G2 (see Figure 9) between the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4 in the area where the second connector 8A is located. Moreover, by allowing the lateral movement DT of the second operating rod 4 in both the second area AR2 defined by the second receiving portion 66 of the connector 6A and the fourth area AR4 defined by the fourth receiving portion 86 of the second connector 8A, smooth relative movement of the second operating rod 4 with respect to the first operating rod 3 becomes possible.

[0069] (Tool 2) In the examples shown in Figures 2(a) and 5(a), the tool 2 has a first working member 21 and a second working member 22, and the second working member 22 is connected to the first working member 21 so as to be rotatable relative to the first working member 21 about the first axis AX1.

[0070] In the examples shown in Figures 2(a) and 5(a), the first operating member 21 includes a first portion P1 having a first operating part 212 and a second portion P2 having a base end 214 attached to the first operating rod 3. The first portion P1 and the second portion P2 may be made up of a single part, or they may be made up of an assembly of multiple parts.

[0071] In the examples shown in Figures 2(a) and 5(a), the second working member 22 includes a third portion P3 having a second working portion 222 and a fourth portion P4 having a base portion 224 attached to the second operating rod 4. In the examples shown in Figures 2(a) and 5(a), the third portion P3 is connected to the fourth portion P4 so as to be rotatable around the second axis AX2. Alternatively, the third portion P3 and the fourth portion P4 may be connected so as not to rotate relative to each other, or the third portion P3 and the fourth portion P4 may be made up of a single part.

[0072] (Operation rods 3 and 4) The lengths of the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4 are set to the length required to grip or cut an object T located at a distance from the operating member 5. The length of the first operating rod 3 is, for example, 1 m or more, 1.5 m or more, or 2 m or more. Similarly, the length of the second operating rod 4 is, for example, 1 m or more, 1.5 m or more, or 2 m or more. Depending on the length of the operating rods (3, 4), the number of connectors (6A, 8A) connecting the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4 may be changed. For example, if the length of the operating rods (3, 4) is long, the number of connectors (6A, 8A) connecting the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4 may be increased.

[0073] In the examples shown in Figures 2(a) and 5(a), the first operating rod 3 is thicker than the second operating rod 4. Of the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4, the thicker one is defined as the main operating rod, and the thinner one is defined as the secondary operating rod. In the examples shown in Figures 2(a) and 5(a), the first operating rod 3 is the main operating rod, and the second operating rod 4 is the secondary operating rod. Alternatively, the first operating rod 3 may be the secondary operating rod, and the second operating rod 4 may be the main operating rod. Further alternatively, the thickness of the first operating rod 3 and the thickness of the second operating rod 4 may be the same.

[0074] In the examples shown in Figures 2(b) and 5(b), the first operating rod 3 bends in response to the operation of the operating member 5. Alternatively, the second operating rod 4 may bend in response to the operation of the operating member 5. Both the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4 may bend in response to the operation of the operating member 5.

[0075] The first operating rod 3 is made of, for example, FRP (in other words, fiber-reinforced plastic). Furthermore, if the object T is an overhead power line or the like, it is preferable that the first operating rod 3 is an electrically insulating operating rod. The second operating rod 4 is made of, for example, FRP (in other words, fiber-reinforced plastic). Furthermore, if the object T is an overhead power line or the like, it is preferable that the second operating rod 4 is an electrically insulating operating rod. The materials of the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4, or the properties such as electrical insulation of the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4, are set appropriately according to the type of tool 2, or the type of object T handled by the tool 2. In other words, the materials and properties of the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4 are not limited to the examples above and are arbitrary.

[0076] (Safety area flange 11, rain-proof flange 12) As illustrated in Figures 2(a) and 5(a), a safety area defining flange 11 may be attached to at least one of the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4. When the safety area defining flange 11 is attached to the first operating rod 3 (or the second operating rod 4), the area on the base end 3b side (or base end 4b side) of the safety area defining flange 11 is an area that the user may touch during work, and the area on the tip end 3a side (or tip end 4a side) of the safety area defining flange 11 is an area that the user must not touch during work. The safety area defining flange 11 is made of an electrically insulating material (for example, an electrically insulating resin).

[0077] As illustrated in Figures 2(a) and 5(a), a rain-proof flange 12 may be attached to at least one of the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4 to prevent rain from flowing down the first operating rod 3 (or the second operating rod 4) to the base end 3b side (or the base end 4b side).

[0078] (Operating member 5) In the example shown in Figure 11(a), the operating member 5 comprises an operating handle 50, a first connecting member 51 connected to the first operating rod 3, and a second connecting member 55 (more specifically, an arm 55a) connected to the second operating rod 4. In the example shown in Figure 11(a), the second connecting member 55 (more specifically, an arm 55a) is connected to the first connecting member 51 so as to be rotatable around the third axis AX3. The second connecting member 55 (more specifically, an arm 55a) is also connected to the second operating rod 4 so as to be rotatable around the fourth axis AX4. In the examples shown in Figures 11(a) and 11(b), the second connecting member 55 (more specifically, an arm 55a) is rotatable integrally with the operating handle 50 around the third axis AX3.

[0079] The operating member 5 may have a one-way operating mechanism (e.g., a ratchet mechanism) that allows the operating handle 50 to be operated in a first operating direction MR1 and prohibits it from being operated in a second operating direction MR2. The operating member 5 may also have a release operating part 53 that releases the operation of the one-way operating mechanism so that the operating handle 50 can be operated in the second operating direction MR2. Alternatively or additionally, the operating member 5 may have a locking member 56 that fixes the position of the operating handle 50 to prevent it from being operated in both the first operating direction MR1 and the second operating direction MR2, and a locking member operating part 57 that moves the locking member 56 between an extended position which is a locked position and a retracted position which is an unlocked position.

[0080] (Third embodiment) The connector 6 in the third embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 14. Figure 12 is a schematic three-view drawing of the connector 6A in the third embodiment. Figure 13 is a schematic drawing of the connector 6B in the first modified example of the third embodiment and the connector 6C in the second modified example of the third embodiment. Figure 14 is a schematic drawing of the connector 6D in the third modified example of the third embodiment and the connector 6E in the fourth modified example of the third embodiment.

[0081] In the third embodiment, the differences from the first and second embodiments will be described in detail, and repetitive explanations of matters already described in the first or second embodiment will be omitted. Therefore, it goes without saying that even if not explicitly described in the third embodiment, matters already described in the first or second embodiment can be adopted in the third embodiment. In particular, matters described for "connector 6A" in the first or second embodiment can be adopted in the connector 6 in the third embodiment. Furthermore, the connector 6 described below can be adopted as a connector for connecting the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4 in the first or second embodiment described above.

[0082] In the third embodiment, the connector 6 is a connector that connects the first operating rod 3 of the remote control device 1 (see, for example, Figure 1) and the second operating rod 4 of the remote control device 1, thereby suppressing the bending of the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4.

[0083] As illustrated in Figures 4(a) to 4(c), the connector 6 comprises: (1) a first receiving portion 61 having a first inner surface 62 capable of holding the first operating rod 3 and defining a first region AR1 that receives a part of the first operating rod 3; (2) a second receiving portion 66 having a second inner surface 67 capable of contacting the second operating rod 4 and defining a second region AR2 that receives a part of the second operating rod 4, and allowing the second operating rod 4 to move relative to the second inner surface 67 in the second region AR2 in the lateral direction DT; and (3) a first connecting portion 75 that connects the first receiving portion 61 and the second receiving portion 66.

[0084] Therefore, the remote control device to which the connector 6 in the third embodiment is attached has the same effect as the remote control device 1 in the first or second embodiment.

[0085] Referring to Figures 1 to 14, optional additional configurations that can be adopted in the connector 6 of the third embodiment will be described.

[0086] (First receiving portion 61, and second receiving portion 66) In the example shown in Figure 12, the first receiving portion 61 has a first end face 63a and a second end face 63b. The direction from the first end face 63a to the second end face 63b coincides with the extending direction of the first operating rod 3 when it is received by the first receiving portion 61. Hereinafter, viewing along the direction from the first end face 63a to the second end face 63b will be referred to as "end face view".

[0087] In the example shown in Figure 12, the first receiving portion 61 has a substantially C-shape overall when viewed from the end face. The first receiving portion 61 may have a substantially C-shaped first inner surface 62 when viewed from the end face, or a substantially C-shaped first outer surface 63c when viewed from the end face.

[0088] In the example shown in Figure 12, the first receiving portion 61 has two lip portions 64 (more specifically, a first lip portion 64a and a second lip portion 64b) that define the first side opening OP1. The first lip portion 64a and the second lip portion 64b are elastically deformable in a direction away from each other. This elastic deformation allows the first operating rod 3 to pass through the first side opening OP1 and enter the inside of the first receiving portion 61. Furthermore, the first operating rod 3 is prevented from unintentionally coming out of the first receiving portion 61 by the first lip portion 64a and the second lip portion 64b returning to their original shapes.

[0089] The second receiving portion 66 has a first end face 68a and a second end face 68b. The direction from the first end face 68a to the second end face 68b substantially coincides with the extending direction of the second operating rod 4 when it is received by the second receiving portion 66.

[0090] In the example shown in Figure 12, the second receiving portion 66 has a substantially C-shape as a whole when viewed from the end face, extending in the direction from the first receiving portion 61 to the second receiving portion 66. The second receiving portion 66 may also have a substantially C-shaped second inner surface 67 when viewed from the end face, extending in the direction from the first receiving portion 61 to the second receiving portion 66, or it may have a substantially C-shaped second outer surface 68c when viewed from the end face, extending in the direction from the first receiving portion 61 to the second receiving portion 66.

[0091] In the example shown in Figure 12, the second receiving portion 66 has two lip portions 69 (more specifically, a third lip portion 69a and a fourth lip portion 69b) that define the second side opening OP2. The third lip portion 69a and the fourth lip portion 69b are elastically deformable in a direction away from each other. This elastic deformation allows the second operating rod 4 to pass through the second side opening OP2 and enter the inside of the second receiving portion 66. Furthermore, the return of the third lip portion 69a and the fourth lip portion 69b to their original shapes prevents the second operating rod 4 from unintentionally coming out of the second receiving portion 66.

[0092] In the example shown in Figure 12, the first side opening OP1 and the second side opening OP2 open in the same direction when viewed from the end face. More specifically, when viewed from the end face, the first side opening OP1 and the second side opening OP2 are located on the same side with respect to the line connecting the center of the first receiving portion 61 and the center of the second receiving portion 66. Alternatively, as illustrated in Figure 13(a), the first side opening OP1 and the second side opening OP2 may open in opposite directions when viewed from the end face. More specifically, when viewed from the end face, the second side opening OP2 may be located on the opposite side from the side where the first side opening OP1 is located with respect to the line connecting the center of the first receiving portion 61 and the center of the second receiving portion 66.

[0093] Furthermore, as illustrated in Figure 13(b), the first side opening OP1 may be located at the part of the first receiving portion 61 furthest from the first connecting portion 75. Alternatively, or additionally, the second side opening OP2 may be located at the part of the second receiving portion 66 furthest from the first connecting portion 75.

[0094] (1st connection part 75) In the example shown in Figure 12, the first connecting portion 75 connects the first receiving portion 61 and the second receiving portion 66 such that relative rotation between them is prohibited. Also in the example shown in Figure 12, the first connecting portion 75 connects the first receiving portion 61 and the second receiving portion 66 such that the distance between them cannot be changed. In this case, the structure of the first connecting portion 75 can be simplified.

[0095] A modified example of the first connecting portion 75 will now be described. Figure 14(a) shows the connector 6D in a third modified example. In the example shown in Figure 14(a), the first connecting portion 75 connects the first receiving portion 61 and the second receiving portion 66 such that relative rotation between the first receiving portion 61 and the second receiving portion 66 is permitted. When such relative rotation is permitted, the connector 6D can flexibly follow irregular deformation (e.g., torsional deformation) of the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4.

[0096] In the example shown in Figure 14(a), the first connecting portion 75 includes a first portion 76a connected to the first receiving portion 61, a second portion 76b connected to the second receiving portion 66, and a rotary joint 77. The rotary joint 77 connects the first portion 76a and the second portion 76b so that the second portion 76b can rotate relative to the first portion 76a around a rotation axis AT that extends in the direction from the first receiving portion 61 to the second receiving portion 66. It goes without saying that the specific configuration of the first connecting portion 75 that connects the first receiving portion 61 and the second receiving portion 66 so that they can rotate relative to each other is not limited to the example shown in Figure 14(a).

[0097] Figure 14(b) shows the connector 6E in a fourth modified example. In the example shown in Figure 14(b), the first connector 75 connects the first receiving portion 61 and the second receiving portion 66 so that the distance between them can be changed. In this case, as illustrated in Figure 1, when the distance between the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4 changes along the longitudinal direction of the first operating rod 3, the connector 6E can be flexibly attached to desired positions on the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4.

[0098] In the example shown in Figure 14(b), the first connecting portion 75 has a threaded rod 78 for adjusting the distance between the first receiving portion 61 and the second receiving portion 66. Preferably, the threaded rod 78 extends along an axis AT parallel to the direction from the first receiving portion 61 to the second receiving portion 66. The first connecting portion 75 may have a first threaded rod 78a connected to the first receiving portion 61, a second threaded rod 78b connected to the second receiving portion 66, and a threaded rod operating portion 79 for moving the first threaded rod 78a and the second threaded rod 78b. In the example shown in Figure 14(b), one of the first threaded rod 78a and the second threaded rod 78b is a forward-threaded rod, and the other is a reverse-threaded rod. The threaded rod operating portion 79 is screwed onto the first threaded rod 78a and the second threaded rod 78b, respectively.

[0099] In the example shown in Figure 14(b), when the threaded rod operating part 79 is operated, the threaded rods 78 (more specifically, the first threaded rod 78a and the second threaded rod 78b) move along the axis AT. As a result, the distance between the first receiving part 61 and the second receiving part 66 is adjusted.

[0100] In the example shown in Figure 14(b), the first connecting portion 75 connects the first receiving portion 61 and the second receiving portion 66 such that the distance between them can be changed and relative rotation between them (more specifically, relative rotation around axis AT) is permitted.

[0101] It goes without saying that the specific configuration of the first connecting portion 75, which connects the first receiving portion 61 and the second receiving portion 66 so that the distance between them can be changed, is not limited to the example shown in Figure 14(b). Also, in the example shown in Figure 14(b), the first receiving portion 61 and the second receiving portion 66 are rigidly connected so that the distance between them can be changed, but alternatively, the first receiving portion 61 and the second receiving portion 66 may be elastically connected so that the distance between them can be changed. In other words, the first connecting portion 75 that connects the first receiving portion 61 and the second receiving portion 66 may be an expandable and contractible connecting portion.

[0102] (Fourth embodiment) The kit K, including the connector 6 and the second connector 8 in the fourth embodiment, will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 16. Figure 15 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the kit K, including the connector 6 and the second connector 8 in the fourth embodiment. Figure 16 is a schematic diagram showing another example of the kit K, including the connector 6 and the second connector 8 in the fourth embodiment.

[0103] In the fourth embodiment, the differences from the first to third embodiments will be described in detail, and repetitive explanations of matters already described in the first, second, or third embodiments will be omitted. Therefore, it goes without saying that even if not explicitly described in the fourth embodiment, matters already described in the first, second, or third embodiments can be adopted in the fourth embodiment. In particular, the matters described for "connectors (6A, 6B, 6C, 6D, 6E)" and "second connector 8A" in the first, second, or third embodiment can be adopted for "connector 6" and "second connector 8" in the fourth embodiment. Furthermore, the connector 6 and second connector 8 described below can be adopted as the connector and second connector connecting the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4 in the first or second embodiment described above.

[0104] In the fourth embodiment, kit K includes a connector 6 and a second connector 8. In addition to connectors 6 and 8, kit K may also include a third connector. Connector 6 may be connector 6A as described in the first or second embodiment, or one of the connectors (6A, 6B, 6C, 6D, 6E) as described in the third embodiment. Since connector 6 has already been described in the first to third embodiments, a repeated explanation of connector 6 will be omitted.

[0105] The second connector 8 is a connector that connects the first operating rod 3 of the remote control device 1 (see, for example, Figure 1) to the second operating rod 4 of the remote control device 1, thereby suppressing the bending of the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4. The second connector 8 may be the second connector 8A described in the first or second embodiment, or other second connectors may be used.

[0106] As illustrated in Figure 10(a), the second connector 8 comprises (1) a third receiving portion 81 having a third inner surface 82 capable of holding the first operating rod 3 and defining a third region AR3 that receives a part of the first operating rod 3; (2) a fourth receiving portion 86 having a fourth inner surface 87 that can contact the second operating rod 4 and defining a fourth region AR4 that receives a part of the second operating rod 4, and allowing the second operating rod 4 to move relative to the fourth inner surface 87 in the fourth region AR4 in the lateral direction DT; and (3) a second connecting portion 95 that connects the third receiving portion 81 and the fourth receiving portion 86.

[0107] In the example shown in Figure 15, the length L1 of the first connecting portion 75 of the connector 6 and the length L2 of the second connecting portion 95 of the second connector 8 are different. By having lengths L1 and L2 different, it is possible to flexibly accommodate the difference between the distance G1 (see Figure 9) between the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4 in the area where the connector 6 is placed and the distance G2 (see Figure 9) between the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4 in the area where the second connector 8 is placed.

[0108] Alternatively, or additionally, at least one of the lengths L1 of the first connecting portion 75 and L2 of the second connecting portion 95 may be adjustable.

[0109] In the example shown in Figure 16, the length of the first connecting portion 75 of the connector 6 is adjustable. The connector 6E described in the third embodiment may be used as the connector 6. Alternatively, or additionally, the length of the second connecting portion 95 of the second connector 8 may be adjustable. As a mechanism for adjusting the length of the second connecting portion 95, for example, a mechanism similar to the mechanism for adjusting the length of the first connecting portion 75 of the connector 6 can be used. In the example shown in Figure 16, the second connecting portion 95 of the second connector 8E includes a threaded rod 98 (more specifically, a first threaded rod 98a and a second threaded rod 98b) for adjusting the distance between the third receiving portion 81 and the fourth receiving portion 86, and a threaded rod operating portion 99 for moving the threaded rod 98 (more specifically, the first threaded rod 98a and the second threaded rod 98b).

[0110] In the example shown in Figure 16, by making it possible to adjust at least one of the lengths of the first connecting portion 75 and the second connecting portion L2, it is possible to flexibly accommodate the difference between the distance G1 between the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4 in the area where the connector 6 is placed (see Figure 9) and the distance G2 between the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4 in the area where the second connector 8 is placed (see Figure 9).

[0111] (How to use remote control device 1) The method of using the remote control device 1 in the embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 17. Figure 17 is a flowchart showing an example of how to use the remote control device 1 in the embodiment.

[0112] The remote control device used in the method of using the remote control device 1 in the embodiment may be the remote control device 1A in the first embodiment, the remote control device 1B in the second embodiment, or any other remote control device. Furthermore, the connector 6 of the remote control device 1 may be the connector 6A described in the first or second embodiment, the connectors (6A, 6B, 6C, 6D, 6E) described in the third embodiment, or any other connector. In addition, if the remote control device 1 is equipped with a second connector 8, the second connector 8 may be the second connector 8A described in the first or second embodiment, the second connector 8E described in the fourth embodiment, or any other second connector.

[0113] As illustrated in Figures 1, 2, 5, etc., the remote control device 1 comprises: (1) a tool 2 having a first working member 21 and a second working member 22, capable of gripping or cutting an object T by the first working member 21 and the second working member 22; (2) a first operating rod 3 connected to the first working member 21; (3) a second operating rod 4 connected to the second working member 22; (4) an operating member 5 connected to each of the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4, which remotely controls at least one of the first working member 21 and the second working member 22 by moving the second operating rod 4 relative to the first operating rod 3; and (5) a connector 6 connecting the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4 in the area between the tool 2 and the operating member 5. Furthermore, as illustrated in Figure 4, the connector 6 includes (6) a first receiving portion 61 having a first inner surface 62 for holding the first operating rod 3 and defining a first region AR1 for receiving a part of the first operating rod 3; (7) a second receiving portion 66 having a second inner surface 67 that can contact the second operating rod 4 and defining a second region AR2 for receiving a part of the second operating rod 4; and (8) a first connecting portion 75 that connects the first receiving portion 61 and the second receiving portion 66.

[0114] In the first step ST1, the connector 6 is attached to the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4. The first step ST1 is the first installation step.

[0115] If the first receiving portion 61 of the connector 6 has a first side opening OP1, the first mounting step includes a first insertion step of inserting the first operating rod 3 into the first receiving portion 61 through the first side opening OP1 (see Figure 8). If the first side opening OP1 is defined by a first lip portion 64a and a second lip portion 64b, the first insertion step may include pressing the first operating rod 3 against the first lip portion 64a and the second lip portion 64b, thereby elastically deforming the first lip portion 64a and the second lip portion 64b in a direction away from each other.

[0116] If the second receiving portion 66 of the connector 6 has a second side opening OP2, the first mounting step includes a second insertion step of inserting the second operating rod 4 into the second receiving portion 66 through the second side opening OP2 (see Figure 8). If the second side opening OP2 is defined by a third lip portion 69a and a fourth lip portion 69b, the second insertion step may include pressing the second operating rod 4 against the third lip portion 69a and the fourth lip portion 69b, thereby elastically deforming the third lip portion 69a and the fourth lip portion 69b in a direction away from each other.

[0117] If the connector 6 is already attached to the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4, the first step ST1 is omitted.

[0118] Additionally, the method of using the remote control device 1 may include a step of attaching the second connector 8 to the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4 (hereinafter referred to as the "second attachment step") (see Figures 10(a) and 10(b)). If the third receiving portion 81 of the second connector 8 has a third side opening OP3, the second attachment step may include a third insertion step of inserting the first operating rod 3 into the third receiving portion 81 through the third side opening OP3. Furthermore, if the fourth receiving portion 86 of the second connector 8 has a fourth side opening OP4, the second attachment step may include a fourth insertion step of inserting the second operating rod 4 into the fourth receiving portion 86 through the fourth side opening OP4.

[0119] If the second connector 8 is already attached to the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4, or if the remote control device 1 does not have the second connector 8, the second attachment step is omitted.

[0120] In the second step ST2, the position of the connector 6 in the direction along the longitudinal direction of the first operating rod 3 is adjusted (see arrow F2 in Figure 6(a) or arrow F1 in Figure 6(b)). The second step ST2 is a position adjustment step. The position adjustment step includes, for example, sliding the connector 6 along the longitudinal direction of the first operating rod 3 while the connector 6 is attached to the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4.

[0121] As illustrated in Figure 6(b), when the connector 6 slides along the first operating rod 3 toward the tip 3a of the first operating rod 3, the position of the first contact surface 67a on the first lateral DT1 side can be made further away from the second operating rod 4. On the other hand, as illustrated in Figure 6(a), when the connector 6 slides along the first operating rod 3 toward the base end 3b of the first operating rod 3, the position of the first contact surface 67a on the first lateral DT1 side can be made closer to the second operating rod 4.

[0122] Additionally, if the remote control device 1 includes a second connector 8, the position of the second connector 8 in the direction along the longitudinal direction of the first operating rod 3 may be adjusted. Adjusting the position of the second connector 8 includes, for example, sliding the second connector 8 along the longitudinal direction of the first operating rod 3 while the second connector 8 is attached to the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4.

[0123] If it is not necessary to adjust the position of the connector 6 (or connector 6 and second connector 8) to the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4, the second step ST2 is omitted.

[0124] In the third step ST3, the operating member 5 is operated. The third step ST3 is an operation process. In the operation process, the operating member 5 is operated so that the second operating rod 4 moves relative to the first operating rod 3. This operation includes, for example, operating the operating handle 50 in the first operating direction MR1 (see Figure 11).

[0125] In the fourth step ST4, a gripping force or cutting force is applied to the object T from the first working member 21 and the second working member 22. The fourth step ST4 is a force application step. In the force application step, a gripping force or cutting force is applied to the object T from the first working member 21 and the second working member 22 by the relative movement of the second working rod 4 with respect to the first working rod 3. By performing the fourth step ST4, the object T is gripped or cut by the first working member 21 and the second working member 22 (see Figure 2(b) or Figure 5(b)).

[0126] In the examples shown in Figures 2(a) and 2(b), or in Figures 5(a) and 5(b), the force application step includes reducing the distance between the first working portion 212 of the first working member 21 and the second working portion 222 of the second working member 22 by the relative movement of the second working rod 4 with respect to the first working rod 3.

[0127] In the fifth step ST5, the second operating rod 4 is moved laterally DT in the second region AR2 defined by the second receiving portion 66. The fifth step ST5 is a lateral movement step. In the lateral movement step, as the second operating rod 4 moves relative to the first operating rod 3, the second operating rod 4 is moved laterally DT relative to the second inner surface 67 in the second region AR2 defined by the second receiving portion 66 (see Figures 4(b) and 4(c)).

[0128] Step 5 ST5 is performed in conjunction with the execution of Step 3 ST3 or Step 4 ST4. More specifically, in the example shown in Figure 2(b) or Figure 5(b), when the operating member 5 is operated (Step 3 ST3), the second operating rod 4 moves away from the first operating rod 3, and as a result, the second operating rod 4 moves laterally DT in the second region AR2 defined by the second receiving portion 66. Also, in the example shown in Figure 2(b) or Figure 5(b), when a gripping force or cutting force is applied to the object T (Step 4 ST4), at least one of the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4 bends, and as a result, the second operating rod 4 moves laterally DT in the second region AR2 defined by the second receiving portion 66.

[0129] As illustrated in Figures 4(b) and 4(c), the lateral movement step (fifth step ST5) may include switching the contact state between the second operating rod 4 and the second inner surface 67 from a first state in which the second operating rod 4 is separated from the first contact surface 67a on the first lateral direction DT1 side of the second inner surface 67 (see Figure 4(b)) to a second state in which the second operating rod 4 is in contact with the first contact surface 67a (see Figure 4(c)). Alternatively, or additionally, the lateral movement step (fifth step ST5) may include switching the contact state between the second operating rod 4 and the second inner surface 67 from a third state in which the second operating rod 4 is separated from the second contact surface 67b on the second lateral direction DT2 side of the second inner surface 67 (see Figure 4(b)) to a fourth state in which the second operating rod 4 is in contact with the second contact surface 67b (see Figure 7(b)).

[0130] Furthermore, as illustrated in Figure 9, if the remote control device 1 has a second connector 8, the lateral movement step (fifth step ST5) may include the second operating rod 4 being moved relative to the fourth inner surface 87 in the lateral direction DT within the fourth region AR4 defined by the fourth receiving portion 86 of the second connector 8.

[0131] As described above, in the method of using the remote control device 1 in the embodiment, the remote control device 1 is equipped with a connector 6 that connects the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4, and the connector 6 allows the second operating rod 4 to move laterally DT in the second region AR2. Therefore, in the method of using the remote control device 1 in the embodiment, the bending of the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4 is suppressed by the connector 6, and the smooth relative movement of the second operating rod 4 with respect to the first operating rod 3 is allowed by the second region AR2.

[0132] Furthermore, consider a case where the lateral movement process (5th step ST5) includes switching the contact state between the second operating rod 4 and the second inner surface 67 from a first state in which the second operating rod 4 is separated from the first contact surface 67a to a second state in which the second operating rod 4 is in contact with the first contact surface 67a. In this case, in the first state in which the second operating rod 4 is separated from the first contact surface 67a, the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4 are allowed to bend moderately outward, and in the second state in which the second operating rod 4 is in contact with the first contact surface 67a, the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4 are prevented from bending excessively outward.

[0133] Furthermore, consider a case where the lateral movement process (5th step ST5) includes switching the contact state between the second operating rod 4 and the second inner surface 67 from a third state in which the second operating rod 4 is separated from the second contact surface 67b to a fourth state in which the second operating rod 4 is in contact with the second contact surface 67b. In this case, in the third state in which the second operating rod 4 is separated from the second contact surface 67b, the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4 are allowed to bend moderately inward, and in the fourth state in which the second operating rod 4 is in contact with the second contact surface 67b, the first operating rod 3 and the second operating rod 4 are prevented from bending excessively inward.

[0134] After the execution of the third step ST3 to the fifth step ST5, the position of the operating handle 50 of the operating member 5 may be fixed by the locking member 56. By fixing the position of the operating handle 50, for example, the state in which the object T is gripped by the tool 2 can be maintained.

[0135] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments or modifications described above, and it is clear that each embodiment or modification can be appropriately modified or changed within the scope of the technical concept of the present invention. Furthermore, any component used in each embodiment or modification can be combined with other embodiments or other modifications, and any component can be omitted in each embodiment or modification. [Industrial applicability]

[0136] The present invention provides a remote control device, a connector, a kit including the connector and a second connector, and a method for using the remote control device. Using these methods, the deflection of the first and second operating rods is suppressed, and smooth relative movement of the second operating rod relative to the first operating rod is permitted. Therefore, a reduction in the gripping or cutting force acting on the object is suppressed, and deterioration of the first and second operating rods is also suppressed. Consequently, this invention is useful for contractors who perform work using remote control devices, and for manufacturers of remote control devices or connectors. [Explanation of symbols]

[0137] 1, 1A, 1B...Remote control device, 2...Tool, 2A...Gripping tool, 2B...Cutting tool, 3...First operating rod, 3a...Tip section, 3b...Proximal end section, 4...Second operating rod, 4a...Tip section, 4b...Proximal end section, 5...Operation member, 6, 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D, 6 E...Connection tool, 8, 8E...Second connection tool, 11...Safety area regulation collar, 12...Rain shield collar, 21...First action member, 21a...First gripping member, 21b...First cutting member, 22...Second action member, 22a...Second gripping member, 22b...Second cutting member, 50... Operating handle, 51...First connecting member, 52...Second connecting member, 53...Release operation part, 55...Second connecting member, 55a...Arm, 56...Locking member, 57...Locking member operation part, 61...First receiving part, 62...First inner surface, 63a...First end surface, 63b...Second end surface, 63c...First outer surface, 64...Lip part, 64a...First lip part, 64b...Second lip part, 66...Second receiving part, 67...Second inner surface, 67a...First contact surface, 67b...Second contact surface, 68a...First end surface, 68b...Second end surface, 68 c...Second outer surface, 69...Lip portion, 69a...Third lip portion, 69b...Fourth lip portion, 75...First connecting portion, 76a...First part, 76b...Second part, 77...Rotating joint, 78...Threaded rod, 78a...First threaded rod, 78b...Second threaded rod, 79...Threaded rod operating portion, 81...Third receiving portion, 82...Third inner surface, 86...Fourth receiving portion, 87...Fourth inner surface, 87a...Third contact surface, 87b...Fourth contact surface, 95...Second connecting portion, 98...Threaded rod, 98a...First threaded rod, 98b...Second threaded rod, 99...Threaded rod operating portion Working part, 212...first action part, 212a...first grip part, 212b...first cutting blade, 214...base end part, 222...second action part, 222a...second grip part, 222b...second cutting blade, 224...base end part, AR1...first region, AR2...second region, AR 3...Third area, AR4...Fourth area, K...Kit, OP1...First side opening, OP2...Second side opening, OP3...Third side opening, OP4...Fourth side opening, P1...First part, P2...Second part, P3...Third part, P4...Fourth part, T...Object

Claims

1. A tool having a first working member and a second working member, the first working member and the second working member capable of gripping or cutting an object, A first operating rod connected to the first operating member, A second operating rod connected to the second operating member, An operating member connected to the first operating rod and the second operating rod, which remotely operates at least one of the first operating member and the second operating member by moving the second operating rod relative to the first operating rod, In the region between the tool and the operating member, a connecting member connects the first operating rod and the second operating rod. It is equipped with, The aforementioned connector is A first receiving portion having a first inner surface for holding the first operating rod and defining a first region for receiving a part of the first operating rod, A second receiving portion having a second inner surface that can contact the second operating rod, defining a second region that receives a part of the second operating rod, and allowing the second operating rod to move laterally relative to the second inner surface within the second region, A first connecting portion that connects the first receiving portion and the second receiving portion Equipped with Remote control device.

2. With the connector attached to the first and second operating rods, the connector is slidable relative to the first operating rod along the longitudinal direction of the first operating rod. The remote control device according to claim 1.

3. When the direction from the first receiving portion toward the second receiving portion is defined as the first transverse direction, and the direction from the second receiving portion toward the first receiving portion is defined as the second transverse direction, the second inner surface of the second receiving portion is, A first contact surface is positioned on the first lateral side of the second region and prevents an increase in the distance between the first operating rod and the second operating rod, A second contact surface is positioned on the second lateral side of the second region and prevents a decrease in the distance between the first operating rod and the second operating rod. Equipped with, The second region between the first contact surface and the second contact surface allows for an increase in the distance between the first operating rod and the second operating rod, and a decrease in the distance between the first operating rod and the second operating rod. The remote control device according to claim 1.

4. When the direction from the first receiving portion toward the second receiving portion is defined as the first transverse direction, and the direction from the second receiving portion toward the first receiving portion is defined as the second transverse direction, the second inner surface of the second receiving portion is, A first contact surface is positioned on the first lateral side of the second region and prevents an increase in the distance between the first operating rod and the second operating rod, A second contact surface is positioned on the second lateral side of the second region and prevents a decrease in the distance between the first operating rod and the second operating rod. Equipped with, The second region between the first contact surface and the second contact surface allows for an increase in the distance between the first operating rod and the second operating rod, and a decrease in the distance between the first operating rod and the second operating rod. The remote control device according to claim 2.

5. The first region and the second region differ in shape or size. The remote control device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. Viewed along the longitudinal direction of the second operating rod, the second region has an elongated shape that is longer in the transverse direction. The remote control device according to claim 5.

7. In the region between the tool and the connector, a second connector is further provided to connect the first operating rod and the second operating rod. The second connector is, A third receiving portion having a third inner surface for holding the first operating rod and defining a third region for receiving a part of the first operating rod, A fourth receiving portion having a fourth inner surface that can contact the second operating rod, defining a fourth region that receives a part of the second operating rod, and allowing the second operating rod to move relative to the fourth inner surface in the lateral direction within the fourth region, A second connecting portion that connects the third receiving portion and the fourth receiving portion Equipped with, The length of the second connecting portion is shorter than the length of the first connecting portion. The remote control device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

8. A connecting device that suppresses bending of the first operating rod and the second operating rod of a remote control device by connecting them, A first receiving portion having a first inner surface capable of holding the first operating rod and defining a first region for receiving a part of the first operating rod, A second receiving portion having a second inner surface that can contact the second operating rod, defining a second region that receives a part of the second operating rod, and allowing the second operating rod to move laterally relative to the second inner surface within the second region, A first connecting portion that connects the first receiving portion and the second receiving portion It is equipped with, When the direction from the first receiving portion toward the second receiving portion is defined as the first transverse direction, The second region has an elongated shape with a major axis along the first transverse direction. Connector.

9. The first connecting portion connects the first receiving portion and the second receiving portion so that the distance between them can be changed, or connects the first receiving portion and the second receiving portion so that relative rotation between them is permitted, or connects the first receiving portion and the second receiving portion so that the distance between them can be changed and relative rotation between them is permitted. The connector according to claim 8.

10. The connector according to claim 8 or 9, Second connector and It is equipped with, The second connector is, A third receiving portion having a third inner surface capable of holding the first operating rod and defining a third region for receiving a part of the first operating rod, A fourth receiving portion having a fourth inner surface that can contact the second operating rod, defining a fourth region that receives a part of the second operating rod, and allowing the second operating rod to move laterally relative to the fourth inner surface within the fourth region, A second connecting portion that connects the third receiving portion and the fourth receiving portion Equipped with, The lengths of the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion are different from each other, or at least one of the lengths of the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion is adjustable. A kit including a connector and a second connector.

11. A method for using a remotely controlled device, The aforementioned remote control device is A tool having a first working member and a second working member, the first working member and the second working member capable of gripping or cutting an object, A first operating rod connected to the first operating member, A second operating rod connected to the second operating member, An operating member connected to the first operating rod and the second operating rod, which remotely operates at least one of the first operating member and the second operating member by moving the second operating rod relative to the first operating rod, In the region between the tool and the operating member, a connecting member connects the first operating rod and the second operating rod. It is equipped with, The aforementioned connector is A first receiving portion having a first inner surface for holding the first operating rod and defining a first region for receiving a part of the first operating rod, A second receiving portion having a second inner surface that can contact the second operating rod and defining a second region that receives a part of the second operating rod, A first connecting portion that connects the first receiving portion and the second receiving portion Equipped with, The aforementioned method of use is A step of operating the operating member so that the second operating rod moves relative to the first operating rod, A step of applying a gripping force or cutting force to the object from the first working member and the second working member by the relative movement of the second working rod with respect to the first working rod, The process of moving the second operating rod laterally relative to the second inner surface in the second region defined by the second receiving portion, in accordance with the relative movement of the second operating rod with respect to the first operating rod. Equipped with Instructions for using remote control devices.

Images