Trigger switch

Abstract

This trigger switch (10) comprises a trigger (11), a brush (21), a flat cable (15), an inner shaft (16), balls (17), a spiral groove part (20b), and a plunger (20). The brush (21) moves in linkage with the trigger (11). The flat cable (15) detects the brush (21) that moves accompanying a pushing operation on the trigger (11). The substantially cylindrical inner shaft (16) is integrated with the trigger (11) and moves in the direction of the pushing operation. The balls (17) are disposed on an inner circumferential surface of the inner shaft (16). In the spiral groove part (20b), the balls (17) move accompanying the pushing operation on the trigger (11). The plunger (20) rotates in such a way that the inner shaft (16) moves on the outer peripheral surface side and the balls (17) move along the spiral groove part (20b) accompanying the pushing operation of the trigger (11).

Description

Trigger switch

[0001] The present invention relates to a trigger switch for driving a drive unit of an electric tool, etc., for example.

[0002] In recent years, a trigger switch that controls the drive of a drive unit of an electric tool, etc. by a pushing operation on a trigger has been used. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a trigger switch including a trigger that moves in response to a pushing operation, the trigger switch including a movable electrode that moves as the trigger moves due to the pushing operation, and a fixed electrode that is disposed near the movement range of the movable electrode and forms a capacitor with the movable electrode, and the capacitance related to the capacitor formed by the movable electrode and the fixed electrode changes as the movable electrode moves.

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2022-118534

[0004] However, the above conventional trigger switch has the following problems. That is, in the trigger switch disclosed in the above publication, in order to increase the stroke when pressing the trigger in the pushing direction, it was necessary to increase the dimension in the pushing direction. Therefore, it was difficult to suppress the dimension of the trigger in the pushing direction while ensuring a sufficient stroke length.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a trigger switch capable of suppressing an increase in size in the pushing direction while ensuring a sufficient stroke length.

[0006] (Means for solving the problem) The trigger switch according to the first invention is a trigger switch that drives a drive unit in response to a push operation on the trigger, and comprises a trigger, a detected part, a detection part, a shaft part, a convex member, a helical groove part, and a rotating member. The trigger moves when a push operation is performed. The detected part moves in conjunction with the trigger. The detection part detects the detected part as it moves in conjunction with the push operation on the trigger. The substantially cylindrical shaft part moves in the direction of the push operation, integrated with the trigger. The convex member is arranged on the inner or outer circumferential surface of the shaft part. The helical groove part moves as the convex member moves in conjunction with the push operation on the trigger. The rotating member rotates as the shaft part moves on the outer or inner circumferential surface side, and the convex member moves along the helical groove part in response to the push operation on the trigger.

[0007] In this trigger switch, which drives a drive unit by pressing the trigger, a convex member provided on the inner or outer circumferential surface of a shaft that moves integrally with the trigger moves along a spiral groove, thereby converting the movement in the direction of the trigger's pressing operation (pressing direction) into movement in the direction that rotates the rotating member. This trigger switch is used, for example, to drive a drive motor (drive unit) mounted on an electric tool.

[0008] The detected part and the detecting part may be configured as an NC (Normal Close) contact, which is in contact until the trigger is pressed and becomes non-contact when the press is released, or as an NO (Normal Open) contact, which is non-contact until the trigger is pressed and becomes contact when the press is released. Furthermore, the detected part and the detecting part may be configured using, for example, a device that detects changes in resistance values ​​such as a printed resistor, or a sensor such as a Hall IC (Integrated Circuit).

[0009] The convex member may be provided integrated with the shaft portion on the inner or outer circumferential surface of the shaft portion, or it may be provided as a separate member. Alternatively, the convex member may be provided integrated with the rotating member on the outer or inner circumferential surface of the rotating member facing the inner or outer circumferential surface of the shaft portion, or it may be provided as a separate member. The helical groove may be provided on the outer or inner circumferential surface of the rotating member, or on the inner or outer circumferential surface of the shaft portion, at the position where the convex member engages.

[0010] As a result, when the trigger is pressed, the shaft moves in the pressing direction, and the convex member moves along the spiral groove, causing the rotating member to rotate. Because the groove is formed at an angle to the pressing direction, the movement of the trigger in the pressing direction can be converted into movement that rotates the rotating member. As a result, it is possible to ensure a sufficient stroke length in the pressing direction of the trigger while suppressing an increase in size in the pressing direction.

[0011] The trigger switch according to the second invention is the trigger switch according to the first invention, wherein the convex member is a spherical member held on the shaft and moves while engaged with the helical groove. As a result, the movement of the spherical member held on the shaft while engaged with the helical groove converts the movement in the pressing direction of the trigger into movement in the direction that rotates the rotating member, thereby ensuring the stroke length in the pressing direction of the trigger.

[0012] The trigger switch according to the third invention is a trigger switch according to the first or second invention, wherein the helical groove is formed on the outer circumferential surface of the rotating member along a direction intersecting the direction of the pressing operation. As a result, the convex member moves along the groove formed along a direction intersecting the direction of pressing, converting the movement of the trigger in the pressing direction into movement in the direction of rotation of the rotating member, thereby ensuring the stroke length of the trigger in the pressing direction.

[0013] The trigger switch according to the fourth invention is a trigger switch according to the first or second invention, wherein the detected part is provided on the outer circumferential surface of a rotating member and moves in the rotational direction by a pressing operation on the trigger. As a result, the detected part moves along the rotational direction of the rotating member without moving the rotating member in the pressing direction, and the movement of the detected part can be detected by the detection unit without moving the rotating member in the pressing direction.

[0014] The trigger switch according to the fifth invention is a trigger switch according to the fourth invention, further comprising a fixed-side member provided with a detection unit. The detected part is positioned so as to be separated from or in contact with the detection unit provided on the fixed-side member in the rotational direction of the rotating member. As a result, since the detection unit that detects the detected part moving along the rotational direction of the rotating member is provided on the fixed-side member, the movement (separation or contact) of the detected part moving in the rotational direction can be detected at the detection unit.

[0015] The trigger switch according to the sixth invention is a trigger switch according to the first or second invention, further comprising a biasing member that applies a biasing force to return the trigger to its initial position when the pressing operation is released. As a result, by releasing the operation on the trigger in the pressing direction, the trigger can be returned to its initial position by the biasing force from the biasing member.

[0016] The trigger switch according to the seventh invention is a trigger switch according to the first or second invention, further comprising a case member that encloses a part of a rotating member, a detection unit, and a detected part. This allows the detection unit to detect the movement of the detected part, which is provided on a part of the rotating member enclosed in the case member.

[0017] The trigger switch according to the eighth invention is the trigger switch according to the seventh invention, wherein the rotating member rotates in the case member at a predetermined position in the direction of the push operation. As a result, the rotating member rotates in the case member at a predetermined position without moving in the push direction, so that a breathing action occurs inside the case member when returning from the push operation to the initial position. Therefore, it is possible to effectively prevent foreign matter such as dust and water from entering the inside of the case member in which the detected part and the detection part are provided.

[0018] The trigger switch according to the ninth invention is the trigger switch according to the seventh invention, further comprising a filling member that seals the side of the case member opposite to the trigger in the internal space of the case member. This makes it possible to form a sealed space inside the case member using a filling member such as resin.

[0019] The trigger switch according to the tenth invention is a trigger switch according to the ninth invention, further comprising an annular elastic member that seals the trigger side of the internal space of the case member. This makes it possible to form a sealed space on the trigger side of the case member using, for example, a simple annular elastic member such as an O-ring.

[0020] The trigger switch according to the eleventh invention is a trigger switch that drives a drive unit in response to a press operation on the trigger, and comprises a trigger, a detected part, a detection part, a shaft part, a convex member, a helical groove part, and a rotating member. The trigger moves when pressed. The detected part moves in conjunction with the trigger. The detection part detects the detected part as it moves in conjunction with the press operation on the trigger. The substantially cylindrical shaft part moves in the direction of the press operation, integrated with the trigger. The convex member is positioned on either the inner or outer circumferential surface side of the shaft part. The helical groove part moves as the convex member moves in conjunction with the press operation on the trigger. The rotating member rotates as the shaft part moves on either the outer or inner circumferential surface side, and the convex member moves along the helical groove part in response to the press operation on the trigger.

[0021] In this trigger switch, which drives a drive unit by pressing the trigger, a convex member provided on the inner or outer circumferential surface of a shaft that moves integrally with the trigger moves along a spiral groove, thereby converting the movement in the direction of the trigger's pressing operation (pressing direction) into movement in the direction that rotates the rotating member. This trigger switch is used, for example, to drive a drive motor (drive unit) mounted on an electric tool.

[0022] The detected part and the detecting part may be configured as an NC (Normal Close) contact, which is in contact until the trigger is pressed and becomes non-contact when the press is released, or as an NO (Normal Open) contact, which is non-contact until the trigger is pressed and becomes contact when the press is released. Furthermore, the detected part and the detecting part may be configured using, for example, a device that detects changes in resistance values ​​such as a printed resistor, or a sensor such as a Hall IC (Integrated Circuit).

[0023] The convex member may be provided integrated with the shaft portion on the inner or outer circumferential surface side of the shaft portion, or it may be provided as a separate member. Alternatively, the convex member may be provided integrated with the rotating member on the outer or inner circumferential surface of the rotating member facing the inner or outer circumferential surface of the shaft portion, or it may be provided as a separate member. The helical groove may be provided on the outer or inner circumferential surface of the rotating member, or on the inner or outer circumferential surface of the shaft portion, at the position where the convex member engages.

[0024] As a result, when the trigger is pressed, the shaft moves in the pressing direction, and the convex member moves along the spiral groove, causing the rotating member to rotate. Because the groove is formed at an angle to the pressing direction, the movement of the trigger in the pressing direction can be converted into movement that rotates the rotating member. As a result, it is possible to ensure a sufficient stroke length in the pressing direction of the trigger while suppressing an increase in size in the pressing direction.

[0025] The trigger switch according to the twelfth invention is a trigger switch according to the eleventh invention, wherein the convex member is provided to protrude from the inner or outer circumferential surface of the shaft portion and moves while engaged with the helical groove. As a result, the movement of the convex member while engaged with the helical groove converts the movement in the pressing direction of the trigger into movement in the direction that rotates the rotating member, thereby ensuring the stroke length in the pressing direction of the trigger.

[0026] The trigger switch according to the 13th invention is a trigger switch according to the 11th or 12th invention, wherein the helical groove is formed on the outer or inner surface of the rotating member. As a result, the convex member moves along the helical groove formed in a direction intersecting the pressing direction, thereby converting the movement of the trigger in the pressing direction into movement in the direction that rotates the rotating member, and ensuring the stroke length of the trigger in the pressing direction.

[0027] The trigger switch according to the 14th invention is a trigger switch according to the 11th or 12th invention, further comprising a biasing member that applies a biasing force to return the trigger to its initial position when the pressing operation is released. As a result, by releasing the operation on the trigger in the pressing direction, the trigger can be returned to its initial position by the biasing force from the biasing member.

[0028] The trigger switch according to the 15th invention is a trigger switch according to the 14th invention, wherein the biasing member is arranged on the inner circumferential surface side of the shaft portion. As a result, when the trigger is operated in the push-in direction, the biasing member arranged on the inner circumferential surface side of the shaft portion can apply a biasing force to return the trigger to its initial position.

[0029] The trigger switch according to the 16th invention is a trigger switch according to the 11th or 12th invention, further comprising a case member that encloses a part of a rotating member, a detection unit, and a detected part. This allows the movement of the detected part, which is provided on a part of the rotating member enclosed in the case member, to be detected by the detection unit.

[0030] The trigger switch according to the 17th invention is a trigger switch according to the 16th invention, wherein the rotating member rotates in the case member at a predetermined position in the direction of the push operation. As a result, the rotating member rotates in the case member at a predetermined position without moving in the push direction, so that a breathing action occurs inside the case member when returning from the push operation to the initial position. Therefore, it is possible to effectively prevent foreign matter such as dust and water from entering the inside of the detected part and the case member in which the detection part is provided.

[0031] The trigger switch according to the 18th invention is a trigger switch according to the 11th or 12th invention, wherein the detected part is provided on the outer circumferential surface of the rotating member and moves in the rotational direction by a pressing operation on the trigger. As a result, the detected part moves along the rotational direction of the rotating member without moving the rotating member in the pressing direction, so that the movement of the detected part can be detected by the detection unit without moving the rotating member in the pressing direction.

[0032] The trigger switch according to the 19th invention is a trigger switch according to the 18th invention, further comprising a fixed-side member provided with a detection unit. The detected part is positioned so as to be separated from or in contact with the detection unit provided on the fixed-side member in the rotational direction of the rotating member. As a result, since the detection unit that detects the detected part moving along the rotational direction of the rotating member is provided on the fixed-side member, the movement (separation or contact) of the detected part moving in the rotational direction can be detected at the detection unit.

[0033] (Effects of the Invention) According to the trigger switch of the present invention, it is possible to suppress an increase in size in the pushing direction while ensuring a sufficient stroke length.

[0034] A perspective view showing the configuration of a trigger switch according to one embodiment of the present invention. An exploded perspective view of the trigger switch of Figure 1. (a) is a perspective view showing the trigger of the trigger switch of Figure 1 in its initial position. (b) is a perspective view showing the trigger pushed in from the initial position in (a). A cross-sectional view showing the internal configuration of the trigger switch of Figure 1. (a) to (d) are perspective views showing the rotation of the rotating member as the trigger is pushed in. (a) to (e) are perspective views showing the rotation of the rotating member as the ball held on the inner shaft moves along the spiral groove as the trigger is pushed in. A perspective view showing the bond (filling member) covering the side of the trigger switch of Figure 1 opposite to the trigger. (a) is a cross-sectional view showing the state of the trigger switch of Figure 1 when it is in its initial state. (b) is a cross-sectional view showing that the volume of the internal space of the case member does not change when the trigger is pushed in from the initial position in (a). A perspective view showing the configuration of a trigger switch according to another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 9 is an exploded perspective view of the trigger switch. (a) is a cross-sectional view showing the trigger in the trigger switch of Figure 9 in its initial position. (b) is a cross-sectional view showing the trigger in its operating limit position. (a) to (d) are perspective views showing the process of pressing the trigger of the trigger switch of Figure 9. (a) to (d) are perspective views showing the transition of the positional relationship between the shaft and the plunger as the trigger is pressed, as shown in Figures 12(a) to 12(d). A cross-sectional view showing the inner circumferential surface configuration of the shaft included in the trigger switch of Figure 9. A perspective view showing the configuration of the plunger included in the trigger switch of Figure 9. (a) is a perspective view showing the process of inserting the return spring from the rear into the case member in which the shaft is installed. (b) is a perspective view showing the state in which the return spring has been inserted into the case member in which the shaft is installed. A perspective view showing the process of attaching the O-ring from the main body side of the plunger in Figure 15. Figure 16(b) is a perspective view showing the process of inserting a plunger fitted with an O-ring, as shown in Figure 17, from the rear into a case member into which a return spring, as shown in Figure 16(b), is inserted. (a) is a cross-sectional view showing the state when the trigger switch in Figure 9 is in its initial state. (b) is a cross-sectional view showing that the volume of the internal space of the case member does not change when the trigger is pushed in the push direction from the initial position in (a).

[0035] (Embodiment 1) The trigger switch 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to Figures 1 to 8(b). In this embodiment, unnecessary detailed explanations may be omitted. For example, detailed explanations of already well-known matters and redundant explanations of substantially identical configurations may be omitted. This is to avoid the following explanation becoming unnecessarily redundant and to facilitate understanding by those skilled in the art.

[0036] Furthermore, the applicant provides the accompanying drawings and the following description so that those skilled in the art may fully understand the present invention, and not intends to limit the subject matter described in the claims.

[0037] (1) Configuration of the trigger switch 10 The trigger switch 10 according to this embodiment is mounted on a power tool such as an electric drill, electric screwdriver, electric wrench, or electric grinder, which is equipped with a drive unit such as a motor. The trigger switch 10 of this embodiment also has an NC (Normal Close) contact that becomes non-contact when the circuit inside the power tool transitions from the ON position to the OFF position. For the purposes of the following explanation, the upper part of the orientation of the trigger switch 10 shown in Figure 1 will be referred to as "up", the lower part as "down", and the direction in which the trigger 11 of the trigger switch 10 is pressed will be referred to as "upper right".

[0038] The trigger switch 10 of this embodiment is a switch operated by the user when performing various tasks using a power tool, and as shown in Figure 1, it comprises a trigger 11 to which a push operation is input, a case member (fixed side member) 12, a return spring (biasing member) 13 that biases the trigger 11 in the opposite direction to the push operation, a connecting member 14, and a flat cable 15.

[0039] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 2, the trigger switch 10 includes an inner shaft (shaft portion) 16, four balls (convex members, spherical members) 17, an outer shaft (shaft portion) 18, an O-ring (annular elastic member) 19, a plunger (rotating member) 20, a brush (detected part) 21, a PWB (Printed Wired Board) 22, a brush (detected part) 23, a spring 24, a cover 25, and a bond (filling member) 26 (see Figure 7).

[0040] The trigger 11 is a component that receives a push operation from the user, and as shown in Figure 1, its front surface is formed in an arc shape where the user places their finger during operation. When the trigger 11 is pushed, the trigger 11 moves from the initial position shown in Figure 3(a) to a predetermined position, as shown in Figure 3(b), while moving in the direction that compresses the return spring 13. Then, when the push operation is released, the trigger 11 moves back to the initial position shown in Figure 3(a) by the biasing force applied by the return spring 13.

[0041] The case member (fixed side member) 12 is a member that encloses the inner shaft 16, outer shaft 18, plunger 20, etc., in its internal space, and as shown in Figure 2, has a cylindrical portion 12a and a housing portion 12b. As shown in Figure 2, the cylindrical portion 12a is a substantially cylindrical member that extends along the pressing direction of the trigger 11, with the inner shaft 16 and outer shaft 18 arranged on the inner circumferential surface side, and the return spring 13 arranged on the outer circumferential surface side in a expandable and contractible state.

[0042] The housing portion 12b is a substantially box-shaped member connected to the end of the cylindrical portion 12a opposite to the trigger 11, and the flange portion 20c of the plunger 20 is enclosed within its internal space in a rotatable manner. In addition, a PWB 22 including a detection unit 22a for detecting the movement of the brush 21 arranged on the outer circumferential surface of the plunger 20 (flange portion 20c) is arranged within the internal space of the housing portion 12b.

[0043] The return spring (biasing member) 13 is formed using a spring such as a compression coil spring. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the return spring 13 is disposed so as to be wound around the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion 12a, and biases the flange portion 18a of the outer shaft 18 in the direction opposite to the pushing direction. Thereby, when the pushing operation is released, the trigger 11 can be returned to the initial position.

[0044] The first end portion of the return spring 13 on the trigger 11 side is locked to the flange portion 18a of the outer shaft 18, and the second end portion on the opposite side is locked to the outer surface of the housing portion 12b of the case member 12. As shown in FIG. 2, the connecting member 14 is a substantially disk-shaped member, and is connected to the end portion (flange portion 20c) of the plunger 20 on the side opposite to the trigger 11, and rotates integrally with the plunger 20. A brush 23 shown in FIG. 2 is attached to the outer peripheral surface of the connecting member 14.

[0045] As shown in FIG. 2, the flat cable 15 is supported in a state where the first end on the trigger 11 side is inserted into a hole formed in the PWB 22. The flat cable 15 is provided for performing power input from the power tool or signal output to the power tool. As shown in FIG. 2, the inner shaft (shaft portion) 16 is a substantially cylindrical member, is on the inner peripheral surface side of the outer shaft 18, and is disposed on the outer peripheral surface side of the main body portion 20a of the plunger 20. The end portion of the inner shaft 16 on the trigger 11 side is connected to the trigger 11. Thereby, by the pushing operation on the trigger 11, the inner shaft 16 and the outer shaft 18 move in the pushing direction in an integrated state.

[0046] The four balls (convex members, spherical members) 17 are spherical members as shown in FIG. 2, and move along the spiral groove portion 20b formed in the plunger 20 while being held on the inner peripheral surface side of the inner shaft 16. As shown in FIG. 2, the outer shaft (shaft portion) 18 is a substantially cylindrical member attached to the outer peripheral surface of the inner shaft 16, and has a flange portion 18a at the end portion on the trigger 11 side.

[0047] The flange portion 18a is a portion that protrudes radially outward of the substantially cylindrical outer shaft 18, and is held in a state where the first end of the return spring 13 abuts thereon. Thereby, as the outer shaft 18 moves in the pushing direction along with the pushing operation on the trigger 11, the return spring 13 can be contracted. The O-ring (annular elastic member) 19 is provided at the end of the internal space S1 on the trigger 11 side of the internal space S1 as a sealing member that seals the internal space S1 of the housing portion 12b of the case member 12, as shown in FIG. 4.

[0048] The plunger (rotating member) 20 is a member formed by combining two substantially cylindrical members, as shown in FIG. 2, and rotates along with the pushing operation on the trigger 11. As shown in FIG. 4, the plunger 20 has a substantially cylindrical main body portion 20a, a spiral groove portion 20b, and a flange portion 20c. The plunger 20 rotates when the inner shaft 16 moves on the outer peripheral surface side and the ball 17 moves along the spiral groove portion 20b by the pushing operation on the trigger 11.

[0049] The main body portion 20a is a substantially cylindrical member, as shown in FIG. 2, and is disposed inside the case member 12 in a rotatable state. As shown in FIG. 4, a spiral groove portion 20b is formed on the substantially cylindrical outer peripheral surface of the main body portion 20a. The spiral groove portion 20b is formed obliquely with respect to the pushing direction of the trigger 11 on the outer peripheral surface of the substantially cylindrical main body portion 20a, as shown in FIG. 4. The groove portions 20b are provided at positions corresponding to the four balls 17, respectively. Thereby, as shown in FIGS. 5(a) to FIGS. 5(d), as the four balls 17 held on the inner peripheral surface side of the inner shaft 16 move along with the pushing operation on the trigger 11, the plunger 20 is rotated in the direction of the broken line arrow in FIGS. 5(b) to FIGS. 5(d).

[0050] For example, in the initial state when the push operation on the trigger 11 is released, as shown in Figure 6(a), the four balls 17 held on the inner circumferential surface side of the inner shaft 16 are positioned engaged with the end of the helical groove 20b on the trigger 11 side. When a push operation is input to the trigger 11, as shown in Figures 6(b), 6(c), and 6(d), the four balls 17 move along the helical groove 20b, causing the inner shaft 16 to move in the push direction and the plunger 20 to rotate in the direction of the arrow in the figure.

[0051] When the amount of the pushing operation is maximized, as shown in Figure 6(e), the four balls 17 held on the inner circumferential surface of the inner shaft 16 are positioned to engage with the end of the helical groove 20b opposite to the trigger 11. As a result, the pushing operation on the trigger 11 is converted into a rotational movement of the plunger 20, thereby ensuring a sufficient amount of operation for the trigger 11 while suppressing an increase in size in the pushing direction.

[0052] As shown in Figure 4, the flange portion 20c is a substantially cylindrical portion of the plunger 20 located on the side opposite the trigger 11, and has a shape that is radially expanded compared to the main body portion 20a. A brush 21 is attached to the outer circumferential surface of the flange portion 20c. The brush (detected portion) 21 is attached to the outer circumferential surface of the plunger 20 (flange portion 20c), which rotates in conjunction with the pushing operation on the trigger 11. The brush 21 moves in the rotational direction of the plunger 20 due to the pushing operation on the trigger 11. At the initial position of the trigger 11, the brush 21 is detected in contact with the detection portion 22a located on the PWB 22 side. When the pushing operation on the trigger 11 is input, the contact between the brush 21 and the detection portion 22a located on the PWB 22 side is released, and the brush 21 is no longer detected.

[0053] The Printed Wired Board (PWB) 22 is a plate-shaped member on which a circuit (not shown) for driving the motor (drive unit) of the power tool is arranged. The PWB 22 is provided with a detection unit 22a that detects the movement of the plunger 20, which is a rotating member, and the brushes 21 and 23 provided on the outer circumferential surface of the connecting member 14. The brush (detected part) 23 is attached to the outer circumferential surface of the substantially cylindrical connecting member 14 described above. The brush 23 moves in the rotational direction of the plunger 20 when the trigger 11 is pressed. The brush 23, like the brush 21, is detected in contact with the detection unit 22a provided on the PWB 22 side at the initial position of the trigger 11. When the press operation on the trigger 11 is input, the contact between the brush 23 and the detection unit 22a provided on the PWB 22 side is released and the brush 23 is no longer detected.

[0054] As shown in Figure 2, the spring 24 is attached to the side of the connecting member 14 opposite to the trigger 11. The spring 24 is provided to return the plunger 20 to a predetermined position when any of the components constituting the rotation mechanism (inner shaft 16, ball 17, outer shaft 18, plunger 20, etc.) malfunction due to wear or deterioration over time. This prevents, for example, play in the plunger 20 on which the brush 23 is mounted, which would cause the rotation of the plunger 20 to not follow the amount of operation of the trigger 11 even after the trigger 11 is released, thus preventing the motor's rotation output from continuing.

[0055] The cover 25 is a plate-shaped member provided on the open side surface of the housing portion 12b of the case member 12, which contains the plunger 20, PWB 22, etc., and is positioned to cover the side of the case member 12 opposite to the trigger 11, as shown in Figure 4. The bond (filler) 26 is, for example, a thermosetting resin such as epoxy resin, and is provided to seal the internal space S1 of the case member 12. As shown in Figure 7, the bond 26 hardens when heat is applied while covering the open side of the case member 12 opposite to the trigger 11.

[0056] Furthermore, when the amount of pressure applied to the trigger 11 by the brushes 21 and 23 exceeds a predetermined threshold (for example, 0.1 to 0.3 mm), the detection unit 22a of the PWB 22 ceases to detect the pressure applied to the trigger 11, thereby detecting the pressure applied to the trigger 11. With the above configuration, the trigger switch 10 is incorporated into the power tool and accepts user input. The user of the power tool performs a pressure operation by pressing down on the trigger 11.

[0057] Upon receiving a push operation, the trigger 11 moves in the push direction. As the trigger 11 moves backward, the inner shaft 16 and outer shaft 18, which are integrated with the trigger 11, also move backward. As the inner shaft 16 and outer shaft 18 move backward, the motor (drive unit) mounted on the power tool is driven. In addition, as the trigger 11 moves backward, the return spring 13 is compressed in the axial direction.

[0058] When the user wants to stop the motor (drive unit) of the power tool, they release the push operation on the trigger 11. When the push on the trigger 11 is released, the biasing force of the return spring 13 moves the trigger 11, inner shaft 16, and outer shaft 18 back to their initial positions. As the outer shaft 18 returns to its initial position, the return spring 13 extends in the push direction, returning to its initial state.

[0059] <Sealing Structure of Trigger Switch 10> In this embodiment, the trigger switch 10 seals the internal space S1 of the case member 12 using a bond 26 (see Figure 7) that covers the open side surface of the internal space S1 of the case member 12 and the O-ring 19 (see Figure 4) described above, as shown in Figures 8(a) and 8(b). In the trigger switch 10 of this embodiment, there is no change in volume between the internal space S1 in the initial state of the trigger 11 shown in Figure 8(a) and the internal space S1 in the pressed position of the trigger 11 shown in Figure 8(b).

[0060] In other words, in the configuration of this embodiment, when the trigger 11 is pressed, the inner shaft 16 and the like move in the pressing direction, causing the plunger 20 and connecting member 14, which are located in the internal space S1, to rotate without moving from their predetermined positions. This prevents a breathing action from occurring in the internal space S1 of the case member 12 when it returns from the pressed position to the initial position due to volume changes. Therefore, the breathing action effectively prevents the intrusion of foreign matter such as dust and moisture into the internal space S1 of the case member 12 where the brushes 21, 23 and the detection unit 22a are located.

[0061] <Main Features> The trigger switch 10 of this embodiment is a switch that drives a drive unit in response to a push operation on the trigger 11, and comprises a trigger 11, brushes (detected parts) 21, 23, PWB 22 (detection part 22a), inner shaft (shaft part) 16, ball 17, spiral groove 20b, and plunger (rotating member) 20. The trigger 11 moves when pushed. The brushes 21, 23 move in conjunction with the trigger 11. The detection part 22a detects the brushes 21, 23 that move in conjunction with the push operation on the trigger 11. The substantially cylindrical inner shaft 16 moves in the direction of the push operation, integrated with the trigger 11. The ball 17 is arranged on the inner circumferential surface of the inner shaft 16. The spiral groove 20b allows the ball 17 to move in conjunction with the push operation on the trigger 11. The plunger 20 rotates as the inner shaft 16 moves on the outer surface side, and the ball 17 moves along the spiral groove 20b when the trigger 11 is pressed.

[0062] As a result, when the inner shaft 16 moves in the pushing direction as the trigger 11 is pressed, the ball 17 moves along the helical groove 20b, causing the plunger 20 to rotate. Because the groove 20b is formed at an angle to the pushing direction, the movement of the trigger 11 in the pushing direction can be converted into movement that rotates the plunger 20. As a result, it is possible to ensure a sufficient stroke length of the trigger 11 in the pushing direction while suppressing an increase in size in the pushing direction.

[0063] (Embodiment 2) Another embodiment of the trigger switch 110 of the present invention will be described below with reference to Figures 9 to 19.

[0064] In this embodiment, the protrusion 116b provided on the inner circumferential surface of the shaft portion 116 moves while pivoting along the helical groove portion 120b provided on the outer circumferential surface of the plunger 120, which differs from Embodiment 1 in that the plunger 20 rotates when the ball 17 moves along the helical groove portion 20b by the pressing operation of the trigger 11. The other components are substantially the same as those of Embodiment 1, so the same reference numerals are used for those components and detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0065] In other words, as shown in Figure 9, the trigger switch 110 of this embodiment includes a trigger 111 that receives a push operation, a case member (fixed side member) 112, and a flat cable 15. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 10, the trigger switch 10 includes a return spring (biasing member) 113 that biases the trigger 111 in the opposite direction to the push operation, a shaft portion 116, an O-ring (annular elastic member) 119, a plunger (rotating member) 120, a brush (detected part) 21, a PWB (Printed Wired Board) 22, a brush (detected part) 23, a spring 24, a cover 25, and a bond (filling member) 126 (see Figure 19(a), etc.).

[0066] The trigger 111 is a component that receives a push operation from the user, and as shown in Figure 10, its front surface is formed in an arc shape where the user places their finger during operation. When the trigger 111 is pushed, the trigger 111 moves from the initial position (FP) shown in Figure 11(a) to a predetermined position (TTP) as shown in Figure 11(b), while moving in the direction that compresses the return spring 13. Then, when the push operation is released, the trigger 111 moves back to the initial position shown in Figure 11(a) by the biasing force applied by the return spring 113.

[0067] The case member (fixed side member) 112 is a member that encloses the shaft portion 116 and the plunger 120, etc., in its internal space, and as shown in Figure 10, it has a cylindrical portion 112a and a housing portion 112b. The cylindrical portion 112a is a substantially cylindrical member that extends along the pressing direction of the trigger 11, as shown in Figure 10, and as shown in Figure 11(a), the shaft portion 116 is arranged on the inner circumferential surface side.

[0068] The housing portion 112b is a substantially box-shaped member connected to the end of the cylindrical portion 112a of the case member 112 opposite to the trigger 111, and as shown in Figure 11(a), the flange portion 120c of the plunger 120 is enclosed within its internal space in a rotatable manner. In addition, a PWB 22 including a detection unit for detecting the movement of the brush 21 arranged on the outer circumferential surface of the plunger 120 (flange portion 120c) is arranged within the internal space of the housing portion 112b.

[0069] The return spring (biasing member) 113 is a compression coil spring or the like, and as shown in Figures 11(a) and 11(b), it is positioned on the inner circumferential surface side of the cylindrical portion 116a of the shaft portion 116, biasing the shaft portion 116 in the opposite direction to the pushing direction. The first end of the return spring 113 on the trigger 111 side is in contact with the end face on the inner circumferential surface of the shaft portion 116, and the second end on the opposite side is positioned in contact with the end face on the inner circumferential surface side of the plunger 120. As a result, as shown in Figures 12(a) to 12(d), when the trigger 111 is pushed in and approaches the case member 112, the return spring 113 is sandwiched between the shaft portion 116 and the plunger 120 and contracts, biasing the shaft portion 116 in the opposite direction to the pushing direction. This allows the trigger 111 to return to its initial position when the pushing operation is released.

[0070] As shown in Figures 11(a) and 11(b), the shaft portion 116 is a substantially cylindrical member, positioned on the inner circumferential surface side of the cylindrical portion 112a of the case member 112 and on the outer circumferential surface side of the main body portion 120a of the plunger 120. The end of the shaft portion 116 on the trigger 111 side is connected to the trigger 111. As a result, when the trigger 111 is pressed, the shaft portion 116 moves in the pressing direction as a single unit.

[0071] Furthermore, as the trigger 111 moves in the pushing direction as shown in Figures 12(a) to 12(d), the shaft portion 116 moves closer to the flange portion 120c of the plunger 120, as shown in Figures 13(a) to 13(d). At this time, the plunger 120 rotates in place inside the case member 112.

[0072] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 14, the shaft portion 116 has a cylindrical portion 116a and a convex portion (convex member) 116b. As shown in Figure 14, the convex portion (convex member) 116b is formed to protrude radially inward from the inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion 116a and moves along the helical groove portion 120b formed in the plunger 120.

[0073] As shown in Figure 11, the O-ring (annular elastic member) 119 is provided at the trigger 111 side end of the internal space S1 (see Figure 19(a), etc.) of the housing portion 112b of the case member 112 as a sealing member that seals the internal space S1. As shown in Figure 15, the plunger (rotating member) 120 is a member made up of two substantially cylindrical members combined together, and rotates in conjunction with the pushing operation of the trigger 111. As shown in Figure 15, the plunger 120 has a substantially cylindrical main body portion 120a, a helical groove portion 120b, and a flange portion 120c. The plunger 120 rotates as the inner circumferential surface of the shaft portion 116 moves on the outer circumferential surface side, and the convex portion 116b moves along the helical groove portion 120b when the trigger 111 is pushed.

[0074] As shown in Figure 15, the main body 120a is a substantially cylindrical member that is rotatably positioned inside the case member 112. As shown in Figure 15, the main body 120a has spiral grooves 120b formed on its substantially cylindrical outer surface. As shown in Figure 15, there are four spiral grooves 120b on the outer surface of the substantially cylindrical main body 120a and they are formed at an angle to the direction in which the trigger 111 is pressed. The grooves 120b are provided at positions corresponding to the four protrusions 116b.

[0075] As a result, when the trigger 111 is pressed as shown in Figures 12(a) to 12(d), the protrusion 116b provided on the inner circumferential surface side of the shaft portion 116 moves, as shown in Figures 13(a) to 13(d), causing the plunger 120 to rotate in place. In other words, when the trigger 111 is pressed, as shown in Figures 13(b), 13(c), and 13(d), the protrusion 116b provided on the shaft portion 116 side moves along the helical groove 120b, causing the shaft portion 116 to move in the pressing direction and the plunger 120 to rotate in place.

[0076] As a result, similar to Embodiment 1 above, the pushing operation on the trigger 111 is converted into a direction that rotates the plunger 120 in place, so that the operating range of the trigger 111 can be sufficiently secured while suppressing an increase in size in the pushing direction. As shown in Figure 4, the flange portion 120c is a substantially cylindrical portion of the plunger 120 provided on the side opposite to the trigger 111, and has a shape that is radially expanded compared to the main body portion 120a. A brush 21 is attached to the outer circumferential surface of the flange portion 120c.

[0077] The bond (filler) 126 is, for example, a thermosetting resin such as epoxy resin, and is provided to seal the internal space S1 of the case member 112 (see Figure 19(a), etc.). The bond 126 hardens when heat is applied while covering the open surface of the case member 112 opposite to the trigger 111.

[0078] <Assembly structure of trigger switch 110> In the assembly process of the trigger switch 110 of this embodiment, as shown in Figures 16(a) and 16(b), the return spring 113 is inserted on the inner circumferential surface side of the case member 112 from the opposite side of the trigger 111, with the shaft portion 116 loaded.

[0079] Next, as shown in Figure 17, the O-ring 119 is moved along the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical body portion 120a of the plunger 120 to a position where it contacts the flange portion 120c, and is attached to the plunger 120. Subsequently, as shown in Figure 18, the cylindrical body portion 120a of the plunger 120, with the O-ring 119 attached as shown in Figure 17, is inserted into the inner circumferential surface of the case member 112, to which the return spring 113 and shaft portion 116 shown in Figure 16(b) are attached.

[0080] In the trigger switch 110 of this embodiment, as described above, the assembly process can be simplified and assembly efficiency improved by moving each component in the direction of the trigger 111's push operation.

[0081] <Sealing structure of trigger switch 110> In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 19(a), the trigger switch 110 seals the internal space S1 of the case member 112 using a bond 126 that covers the open side surface of the internal space S1 of the case member 112 and the O-ring 119 described above.

[0082] In the trigger switch 110 of this embodiment, there is no change in volume between the internal space S1 in the initial state of the trigger 111 shown in Figure 19(a) and the internal space S1 in the pressed position of the trigger 111 shown in Figure 19(b). That is, in the configuration of this embodiment, as the trigger 111 is pressed, the plunger 120, which is located in the internal space S1, rotates without moving from its predetermined position due to the movement of the shaft portion 116 and the like in the pressing direction.

[0083] This prevents the occurrence of a breathing action due to volume change when the case member 112 returns from the pressed position to the initial position in the internal space S1. Therefore, the breathing action effectively prevents the intrusion of foreign matter such as dust and moisture into the internal space S1 of the case member 112 where the brushes 21, 23, etc. are located.

[0084] [Other Embodiments] Although one embodiment of the present invention has been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, and various modifications are possible without departing from the spirit of the invention.

[0085] (A) In the above embodiment 1, an example was described in which four balls (spherical members) 17 held on the inner circumferential surface side of the inner shaft 16 move along a helical groove 20b formed on the outer circumferential surface of the plunger (rotating member) 20. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the balls (spherical members) held on the outer circumferential surface side of the plunger (rotating member) may move along a helical groove formed on the inner circumferential surface of the shaft member.

[0086] (B) In the above embodiment 1, an example was given in which four balls (spherical members) 17 were used as convex members that move along the helical groove 20b. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, instead of balls (spherical members), a configuration may be used in which a convex member is provided on the inner circumferential surface of the shaft member or on the outer circumferential surface of the plunger (rotating member) in an integrated state with the shaft member or plunger (rotating member).

[0087] (C) In embodiments 1 and 2 described above, the brush 21 was provided on the outer circumferential surface of the plungers (rotating members) 20 and 120. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the detected part may be provided on the circular end face of the flange portion of the rotating member. In this case, the same effects as in the above embodiments can be obtained by providing the detection part in a portion opposite to the arc-shaped area on which the detected part moves.

[0088] (D) In ​​the embodiments 1 and 2 described above, examples were given in which epoxy resin was used as the bond (filling member) 26, 126 for sealing the internal space S1 of the case member 12. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, a thermosetting resin other than epoxy resin may be used as the filling member, or other elastic materials may be used.

[0089] (E) In the embodiments 1 and 2 described above, a trigger switch 10 that constitutes an NC (Normal Close) contact, in which the contact state is released when transitioning from the ON position to the OFF position, was used as an example. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the present invention may be applied to a trigger switch that constitutes an NO (Normal Open) contact, in which the contact state is released when transitioning from the OFF position to the ON position of a circuit provided inside a power tool.

[0090] (F) In embodiments 1 and 2 described above, examples were given in which the detected part and the detection part constitute a mechanical contact. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the detected part and the detection part may be configured using, for example, a device that detects changes in resistance values ​​such as a printed resistor, or a sensor such as a Hall IC (Integrated Circuit).

[0091] (G) In the above embodiments 1 and 2, examples were given in which the present invention is applied to a trigger switch 10 mounted on a power tool. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the present invention may be applied to trigger switches mounted on other devices such as vacuum cleaners and chainsaws.

[0092] (H) In the above embodiment 2, an example was described in which the convex portion 116b as a convex member is provided on the inner circumferential surface side of the shaft portion 116, and the helical groove portion 120b is provided on the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical main body portion 120a of the plunger (rotating member) 120. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the convex member may be provided on the rotating member side, and the helical groove portion may be provided on the shaft portion side.

[0093] <Note> The trigger switch according to the first invention is a trigger switch that drives a drive unit in response to a push operation on the trigger, comprising: a trigger that moves in response to the push operation; a detected unit that moves in conjunction with the trigger; a detection unit that detects the detected unit that moves in response to the push operation on the trigger; a substantially cylindrical shaft unit that moves in the direction of the push operation, integrated with the trigger; a convex member disposed on the inner or outer circumferential surface of the shaft unit; a helical groove unit on which the convex member moves in response to the push operation on the trigger; and a rotating member that rotates as the shaft unit moves on the outer or inner circumferential surface side and the convex member moves along the helical groove unit in response to the push operation on the trigger.

[0094] The trigger switch according to the second invention is the trigger switch according to the first invention, wherein the convex member is a spherical member held by the shaft and moves while engaged with the helical groove. The trigger switch according to the third invention is the trigger switch according to the first or second invention, wherein the helical groove is formed on the outer circumferential surface of the rotating member along a direction intersecting the direction of the push operation.

[0095] The trigger switch according to the fourth invention is a trigger switch according to any one of the first to third inventions, wherein the detected portion is provided on the outer circumferential surface of the rotating member and moves in the rotational direction by a pressing operation on the trigger. The trigger switch according to the fifth invention is a trigger switch according to the fourth invention, further comprising a fixed side member on which the detection portion is provided, wherein the detected portion is arranged to be separated from or in contact with the detection portion provided on the fixed side member in the rotational direction of the rotating member.

[0096] The trigger switch according to the sixth invention is a trigger switch according to any one of the first to fifth inventions, further comprising a biasing member that applies a biasing force to return the trigger to its initial position when the pressing operation is released. The trigger switch according to the seventh invention is a trigger switch according to any one of the first to sixth inventions, further comprising a case member that encloses a part of the rotating member, the detection unit, and the detected unit.

[0097] The trigger switch according to the eighth invention is the trigger switch according to the seventh invention, wherein the rotating member rotates in the internal space of the case member at a predetermined position in the direction of the push operation. The trigger switch according to the ninth invention is the trigger switch according to either the seventh or the eighth invention, further comprising a filling member that seals the side of the internal space of the case member opposite to the trigger.

[0098] The trigger switch according to the tenth invention is a trigger switch according to the ninth invention, further comprising an annular elastic member that seals the trigger side in the internal space of the case member. The trigger switch according to the eleventh invention is a trigger switch that drives a drive unit in response to a push operation on the trigger, comprising: a trigger that moves by the push operation; a detected unit that moves in conjunction with the trigger; a detection unit that detects the detected unit that moves in conjunction with the push operation on the trigger; a substantially cylindrical shaft unit that moves in the direction of the push operation, integrated with the trigger; a convex member disposed on the inner or outer circumferential surface side of the shaft unit; a helical groove unit on which the convex member moves in conjunction with the push operation on the trigger; and a rotating member that rotates as the shaft unit moves on the outer or inner circumferential surface side and the convex member moves along the helical groove unit in response to the push operation on the trigger.

[0099] The trigger switch according to the 12th invention is the trigger switch according to the 11th invention, wherein the convex member is provided to protrude from the inner or outer circumferential surface of the shaft portion and moves while engaged with the helical groove portion. The trigger switch according to the 13th invention is the trigger switch according to the 11th or 12th invention, wherein the helical groove portion is formed on the outer or inner circumferential surface of the rotating member.

[0100] The trigger switch according to the 14th invention is a trigger switch according to any one of the 11th to 13th inventions, further comprising a biasing member that applies a biasing force to return the trigger to its initial position when the pressing operation is released. The trigger switch according to the 15th invention is a trigger switch according to the 14th invention, wherein the biasing member is arranged on the inner circumferential surface side of the shaft.

[0101] The trigger switch according to the 16th invention is a trigger switch according to any one of the 11th to 15th inventions, further comprising a case member that encloses a part of the rotating member, the detection unit, and the detected unit. The trigger switch according to the 17th invention is a trigger switch according to the 16th invention, wherein the rotating member rotates in the case member at a predetermined position in the direction of the push operation.

[0102] The trigger switch according to the 18th invention is a trigger switch according to any one of the 11th to 17th inventions, wherein the detected part is provided on the outer circumferential surface of the rotating member and moves in the rotational direction by a pressing operation on the trigger. The trigger switch according to the 19th invention is a trigger switch according to the 18th invention, further comprising a fixed side member on which the detection part is provided, wherein the detected part is arranged to be separated from or in contact with the detection part provided on the fixed side member in the rotational direction of the rotating member.

[0103] The trigger switch of the present invention has the effect of ensuring a sufficient stroke length while suppressing an increase in size in the pressing direction, and is therefore widely applicable as a switch for driving various drive units.

[0104] 10 Trigger switch 11 Trigger 12 Case member (fixed side member) 12a Cylindrical part 12b Housing part 13 Return spring (biasing member) 14 Connecting member 15 Flat cable 16 Inner shaft (shaft part) 17 Ball (convex member, spherical member) 18 Outer shaft (shaft part) 19 O-ring (annular elastic member) 20 Plunger (rotating member) 20a Main body part 20b Groove part 20c Flange part 21 Brush (detected part) 22 PWB (Printed Wired Board) 22a Detection part 23 Brush (detected part) 24 Spring 25 Cover 26 Bond (filling member) 110 Trigger switch 111 Trigger 112 Case member 112a Cylindrical part 112b Housing part 113 Return spring (biasing member) 116 Shaft portion 116a Cylindrical portion 116b Convex portion (convex member) 119 O-ring (annular elastic member) 120 Plunger (rotating member) 120a Main body portion 120b Groove portion 120c Flange portion 126 Bond S1 Internal space

Claims

1. A trigger switch that drives a drive unit in response to a press operation on the trigger, comprising: a trigger that moves in response to the press operation; a detected unit that moves in conjunction with the trigger; a detection unit that detects the detected unit that moves in response to the press operation on the trigger; a substantially cylindrical shaft unit that moves in the direction of the press operation, integrated with the trigger; a convex member disposed on the inner or outer circumferential surface of the shaft unit; a helical groove unit on which the convex member moves in response to the press operation on the trigger; and a rotating member that moves on the outer or inner circumferential surface side of the shaft unit, and rotates as the convex member moves along the helical groove unit in response to the press operation of the trigger.

2. The trigger switch according to claim 1, wherein the convex member is a spherical member that is held by the shaft portion and moves while engaged with the helical groove portion.

3. The trigger switch according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the spiral groove is formed on the outer circumferential surface of the rotating member along a direction intersecting the direction of the pushing operation.

4. The trigger switch according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the detected part is provided on the outer circumferential surface of the rotating member and moves in the rotational direction by a pressing operation on the trigger.

5. The trigger switch according to claim 4, further comprising a fixed side member on which the detection unit is provided, wherein the detected unit is arranged to be separated from or in contact with the detection unit provided on the fixed side member in the rotational direction of the rotating member.

6. The trigger switch according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a biasing member that applies a biasing force to return the trigger to its initial position when the pressing operation is released.

7. The trigger switch according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a case member enclosing a part of the rotating member, the detection unit, and the detected unit.

8. The trigger switch according to claim 7, wherein the rotating member rotates in the case member at a predetermined position in the direction of the push operation.

9. The trigger switch according to claim 7, further comprising a filling member that seals the internal space of the case member on the side opposite to the trigger.

10. The trigger switch according to claim 9, further comprising an annular elastic member that seals the trigger side within the internal space of the case member.

11. A trigger switch that drives a drive unit in response to a press operation on the trigger, comprising: a trigger that moves in response to the press operation; a detected unit that moves in conjunction with the trigger; a detection unit that detects the detected unit that moves in response to the press operation on the trigger; a substantially cylindrical shaft unit that moves in conjunction with the trigger and moves in the direction of the press operation; a convex member disposed on the inner or outer circumferential surface side of the shaft unit; a helical groove unit on which the convex member moves in response to the press operation on the trigger; and a rotating member that rotates as the shaft unit moves on the outer or inner circumferential surface side and the convex member moves along the helical groove unit in response to the press operation of the trigger.

12. The trigger switch according to claim 11, wherein the convex member is provided so as to protrude from the inner or outer circumferential surface of the shaft portion and moves while engaged with the helical groove portion.

13. The trigger switch according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the helical groove is formed on the outer or inner surface of the rotating member.

14. The trigger switch according to claim 11 or 12, further comprising a biasing member that applies a biasing force to return the trigger to its initial position when the pressing operation is released.

15. The trigger switch according to claim 14, wherein the biasing member is arranged on the inner circumferential surface side of the shaft portion.

16. The trigger switch according to claim 11 or 12, further comprising a case member enclosing a part of the rotating member, the detection unit, and the detected unit.

17. The trigger switch according to claim 16, wherein the rotating member rotates in the case member at a predetermined position in the direction of the push operation.

18. The trigger switch according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the detected part is provided on the outer circumferential surface of the rotating member and moves in the rotational direction by a pressing operation on the trigger.

19. The trigger switch according to claim 18, further comprising a fixed side member on which the detection unit is provided, wherein the detected unit is arranged to be separated from or in contact with the detection unit provided on the fixed side member in the rotational direction of the rotating member.

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