Power supply device

A power supply device includes a main body, a cover member, a rechargeable battery, and an inverter device. The main body is configured of box-shape formed with an opening. The cover member is configured to open and close the opening. The rechargeable battery is accommodated in the main body. The inverter device is configured to be accommodated in the main body. The inverter device converts a direct voltage from the battery to an alternating voltage and outputs the alternating voltage.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The invention relates to a power supply device.

BACKGROUND ART

There is an increase in demand for an emergency power supply device in preparation for a situation in which a power failure has occurred due to an earthquake, a disaster, etc. (For example, refer to Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2009-278832)

DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION

Solution to Problem

In particular, there is a demand for a high-capacity emergency power supply device that can be used for a long period of time. An emergency power supply device for outputting 100V AC voltage has various devices such as an inverter device as well as a battery.

It is an object of the invention to provide a power supply device that can integrally convey the various devices and can be used for a long period of time.

In order to attain above and other objects, the present invention provides a power supply device. The power supply device includes a main body, a cover member, a rechargeable battery, and an inverter device. The main body is configured of box-shape formed with an opening. The cover member is configured to open and close the opening. The battery is accommodated in the main body. The inverter device is configured to be accommodated in the main body. The inverter device converts a direct voltage from the battery to an alternating voltage and outputs the alternating voltage.

It is preferable that the inverter device converts the direct voltage from the battery to a square-wave alternating voltage and outputs the square-wave alternating voltage. The power supply device further includes a sine-wave adapter configured to convert the square-wave alternating voltage outputted from the inverter device to a sine-wave alternating voltage and output the sine-wave alternating voltage. The sine-wave adapter is capable of being accommodated in the main body.

It is preferable that the cover member includes a fixing section on which the inverter device is fixable.

It is preferable that the inverter device includes an engagement section and the fixing section comprises an engaging section engageable with the engagement section.

It is preferable that the cover member has an outer surface from which the fixing section protrudes. The cover member further includes a protruding section protruding more than the fixing section from the outer surface.

It is preferable that the protruding section has a peripheral portion provided with the protruding section and formed with a flat section having the same level as the outer surface of the cover member. The outer surface of the cover member is slanted downward toward the flat section.

It is preferable that the outer surface is slanted downward at least 1 degree toward the flat section.

It is preferable that the cover member is a generally rectangular shape having four sides and is pivotally movable relative to the main body at one of the four sides. The cover member has an inner surface opposed to the outer surface. The cover member is formed with at least one of U-shaped grooves penetrating the outer surface and the inner surface at the remaining side of the four sides.

It is preferable that the cover member includes a protruding wall protruding from the outer surface and provided at an entire periphery of the groove.

It is preferable that the power supply device further includes an adapter configured to connect the inverter device with the battery. The inverter device includes an accommodating section capable of accommodating the adapter and protruding from an outer portion of the inverter device. The cover member has an inner surface opposed to the outer surface. The inner surface of the cover member has an abutment surface in abutment with the adapter for preventing the cover member from being closed when the inverter device is accommodated in the main body and the adapter is accommodated in the accommodating section.

It is preferable that the inverter device is capable of using independently upon separating from the fixing section.

It is preferable that the battery is a lead storage battery.

It is preferable that the lead storage battery is for a vehicle use.

It is preferable that the inverter device is selectively usable as power source either the battery or a battery pack for a power tool.

It is preferable that the power supply device further includes an adapter configured to connect the inverter device with the battery. The adapter includes a connection section connected with the inverter device. The battery pack includes a connecting section connected with the inverter device. A shape of the connecting section is the same as that of the connection section.

It is preferable that the cover member is incapable of closing the opening in a state where the inverter device is connected with the adapter or the battery pack and is accommodated in the main body.

It is preferable that the power supply device further includes a grippable handle for carrying the main body. The main body includes a holding section for holding the handle.

It is preferable that the handle includes a first handle member having a first joint surface, and a second handle member having a second joint surface. The first joint surface and the second joint surface are in abutment with and fixed to each other. The first handle member and the second handle member are half-split shape that is plane-symmetrical with respect to the first and second joint surfaces.

It is preferable that the main body has one end portion where the cover member is provided and another end portion opposed to the one end portion in a longitudinal direction. The handle is movably held on the holding section at a prescribe amount in the longitudinal direction. The main body further includes a stopper in abutment with the handle when the handle is located at an end position in a direction from the other end portion to the one end portion.

It is preferable that the power supply device further includes an elastic member provided at least one of a portion of the handle and a portion of the stopper. The stopper is in abutment with the portion of the handle, and the handle is in abutment with the portion of the stopper.

It is preferable that the main body has an outer surface. The handle is movable along the outer surface. The elastic member is provided from the outer surface to a portion farther than the handle in a separating direction from the main body.

It is preferable that the elastic member is made from rubber damper.

It is preferable that the handle has a top end portion farthest from the main body in the longitudinal direction. When the main body is in an upside down orientation in which the one end portion of the main body is positioned at bottom side and the other end portion of the main body is positioned at top side, the top end portion and a center of gravity of the power supply device each projected to a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction are away from each other such that the power supply device is incapable of stably maintaining the upside down orientation.

It is preferable that the handle is disposed at an outer surface of the main body and is movable between a most retracted position retracted along the outer surface and a most extended position extending from the main body. The handle has a top end portion farthest from the main body in a longitudinal direction of the main body. The top end portion is located at a position higher than a top portion of the inverter device in a state where the inverter device is fixed on the cover member and the handle is at the most retracted position.

It is preferable that the power supply device further includes a wheel rotatably supported on the main body to be capable of carrying the main body.

It is preferable that the power supply device further includes a middle cover provided in the main body and dividing a space within the main body into an upper chamber and a lower chamber. The battery is accommodated at the lower chamber and the inverter device is capable of being accommodated in the upper chamber.

It is preferable that the middle cover includes a receiving section for receiving the inverter device. The inverter device is held by the cover member and the receiving section upon being accommodated in the main body.

It is preferable that the power supply device further includes an adapter configured to connect the inverter device with the battery. The middle cover includes an accommodating portion configured to accommodate the adapter and positioned lower than the receiving section.

It is preferable that the inverter device is capable of being received on the middle cover in a state where the adapter is connected to the inverter device.

It is preferable that the main body includes an inner body defining a space within the main body, and an outer body constituting an outer shell of the main body. The power supply device further includes a grippable handle for carrying the main body. The main body further includes a holding section for holding the handle. The inverter device is capable of being accommodated in the upper chamber in a state where the inverter device is received on the middle cover. The inner body includes a concave section located at a position confronting the inverter device and depressed outward from the main body. The holding section is fixed at the concave section.

It is preferable that the inverter device converts the direct voltage from the battery to a square-wave alternating voltage and outputs the square-wave alternating voltage. The power supply device further includes a sine-wave adapter capable of converting the square-wave alternating voltage outputted from the inverter device to a sine-wave alternating voltage. The main body includes an inner body defining a space within the main body and an outer body constituting an outer shell. The power supply device further includes a grippable handle for carrying the main body. The main body further includes a holding section for holding the handle. The sine-wave adapter is capable of being accommodated in the upper chamber in a state where the sine-wave adapter is received on the middle cover. The inner body includes a concave section in confrontation with the sine-wave adapter and depressed outward from the main body. The holding section is fixed at the concave section.

It is preferable that the middle cover has a peripheral portion formed with at least one of U-shaped groove sections penetrating an upside of the middle cover and a downside thereof. The at least one of U-shaped groove sections are formed such that the peripheral portion of the middle cover is cut out.

It is preferable that the middle cover has a bottom surface formed with a through hole penetrating the upper chamber and the lower chamber.

It is preferable that the main body includes a buffer material for cushioning an impact.

It is preferable that the main body further includes an inner body defining a space within the main body. The battery is disposed within the inner body and the buffer material is disposed outside of the inner body.

It is preferable that the main body further includes an outer body constituting an outer shell of the main body. The buffer material is provided between the inner body and the outer body.

It is preferable that the main body includes an abutting section. The abutting section includes a first abutting section formed on a bottom surface of the inner body and a second abutting section formed at the outer body and in confrontation with the first abutting section.

It is preferable that the inner body has a bottom surface formed with a drainage hole penetrating inside of the main body and outside thereof. The bottom surface of the inner body includes a slant section slanted downward toward the drainage hole.

It is preferable that the slant section is slanted more than or equal to 1 degree relative to a horizon.

It is preferable that the abutting section is located at a position lower than the slant section, and the drainage hole is formed at the abutting section.

It is preferable that the buffer material has thermal insulation properties.

It is preferable that the power supply device further includes a plate-shaped battery plate provided at a bottom surface of the inner body and extending in a prescribed direction, a pair of battery shafts each having an upper end portion and a lower end portion, and a plate-shaped support plate extending in the prescribed direction and spanned above the battery. The battery plate is formed with a plurality of first holes spaced away from each other in the prescribed direction and is provided with restricting sections located at each end portions of the battery plate in a direction perpendicular to the prescribed direction. The lower end portion of each of the battery shafts extends through the corresponding first holes. The support plate is formed with a plurality of second holes spaced away from each other in the prescribed direction. The upper end portion of each of the battery shafts extends through the corresponding second holes. The battery is fixedly sandwiched by the support plate and the battery plate.

It is preferable that the power supply device further includes a first antislip member for preventing a slippage of the battery plate with respect to the battery plate.

It is preferable that the power supply device further includes a second antislip member for preventing a slippage of the battery with respect to the battery plate.

It is preferable that the first antislip member is a rubber damper.

It is preferable that the second antislip member is a rubber damper.

It is preferable that the battery includes a pair of terminals separating from each other at a predetermined distance. The support plate includes an insulating member having a length longer than the predetermined distance.

Advantageous Effects of Invention

According to the invention, a power supply device can be provided that can grasp temperature of the battery accurately.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

The configuration of a power supply device1according to an embodiment of the invention will be described while referring to the accompanying drawings.

As shown inFIGS. 1 and 2, the power supply device1mainly includes a main body2, a handle3, an upper cover4, an inverter device5, a middle cover6, an adapter7, and a battery8. As shown inFIG. 2, a direction in which the handle3extends from the main body2is defined as an upper direction, and a direction opposite the upper direction is defined as a lower direction. Further, as shown inFIG. 3, a side of the handle3relative to the main body2is defined as a rear side, and a side opposite the rear side is defined as a front side. A direction perpendicular to the upper-lower direction and to the front-rear direction is defined as a left-right direction (FIG. 2).

As shown inFIG. 21, the main body2has an upper surface formed with an opening2a, and the upper cover4can open and close the opening2a. The main body2accommodates the inverter device5, the middle cover6, the adapter7, and the battery8.FIGS. 2 and 3show, in the dotted lines, the inverter device5fitted with the adapter7above the upper cover4, which indicates that the inverter device5can be fixed above the upper cover4. Similarly,FIGS. 13 and 14show the inverter device5, in the dotted lines, above the middle cover6, which indicates that the inverter device5can be placed on the middle cover6.FIGS. 13 and 14also show the adapter7, in the dotted lines, inside the middle cover6, which indicates that the adapter7can be accommodated on the middle cover6. The main body2serves as a main body section of the invention, the upper cover4serves as a cover member of the invention, and the battery8serves as a battery of the invention.

As shown inFIGS. 4 and 5, two wheels21are provided at both ends of the lower rear surface of the main body2in the left-right direction. Grip sections22are symmetrically provided at left and right side surfaces of an upper part of the main body2. The grip sections22are gripped by an operator when the operator lifts the power supply device1. The detailed configurations of the main body2will be described later.

The handle3is provided at a rear surface of the main body2, and is configured to be movable in the upper-lower direction between a retracted position shown inFIG. 4and an extended position shown inFIG. 8. Both the handle3and the wheels21are provided at the rear surface of the main body2. Thus, the operator can extend the handle3to the extended position and tilt the power supply device1to an oblique position, thereby carrying the power supply device1easily. The detailed configurations of the handle3will be described later.

As shown inFIG. 2, a hinge41is provided at the right end of the upper cover4. The upper cover4is pivotally movable about the hinge41relative to the main body2. The upper cover4is secured to the main body2with a latch42provided at the main body2. The detailed configurations of the upper cover4will be described later.

The inverter device5converts a DC 12V input of the battery8into a square wave of AC 100V and outputs the square wave. The inverter device5can be used as a standalone power source, by detaching the inverter device5from the power supply device1and inserting a battery pack5C (a battery pack for a power tool, 14.4V for example) indicated by the dotted lines inFIG. 24in the inverter device5. Note that the capacity of the battery pack5C for a power tool (3.0 Ah) is smaller than the capacity of the battery8(38 Ah). The battery8is rechargeable via the inverter device5and the adapter7, by mounting the adapter7on the inverter device5, connecting one end of a power cable56described later with the inverter device5, and connecting the other end of the power cable56with a commercial 100V power source. That is, the inverter device5also has a charging function. The detailed configurations of the inverter device5will be described later.

As shown inFIGS. 2 and 3, the middle cover6is arranged at approximately a center of the main body2in the upper-lower direction, and is configured to accommodate the adapter7. The inverter device5can be placed on the upper surface of the middle cover6. The detailed configurations of the middle cover6will be described later.

The adapter7includes an adapter cable71extending from the adapter7, a connection section72connected with the inverter device5. The adapter7is electrically connected with the battery8via the adapter cable71. The power supply device1can be used as a 12V DC power source by connecting the adapter7with a power tool etc. (not shown). Note that, even though the battery8is 12V, the battery8can be used for a power tool of 14.4V or 10.8V, for example, by providing a step-up circuit or a step-down circuit in the adapter7. Also, the power supply device1can be used as a 100V AC power source for a power tool etc. by mounting the adapter7on the inverter device5and taking an output from the inverter device5. The connection section72includes a terminal section72A, a rail section72B, and a latch section72C.

The battery8is disposed at a lower part of the main body2, and serves as a power source of the power supply device1. In the present embodiment, a lead battery for a vehicle use is adopted as an example of the battery8. The battery8includes terminals81as shown inFIG. 6A, and is connected with the adapter7via the terminals81and the adapter cable71. The detailed configurations of the battery8will be described later.

Four protrusions23are provided at the lower surface of the main body2. As shown inFIG. 3, in a state where the power supply device1is placed on the ground, the four protrusions23are in contact with the ground, and the wheels21are spaced away from the ground. The main body2is constituted by a combination of an outer body24serving as the outer shell and an inner body2defining a space within the main body2. The outer body24functions to absorb an impact when the power supply device1falls. A buffer material2A is provided at the main body2, and more specifically between the outer body24and the inner body25. In the present embodiment, the buffer material2A is filling material, and urethane is adopted as an example. Each of the outer body24and the inner body25is made of resin formed by blow molding. In the present embodiment, polyethylene is adopted as material of the inner body25and the outer body24, considering a possibility that dilute sulfuric acid leaks out from the battery8.

Because the buffer material2A is filled between the outer body24and the inner body25as described above, the battery8does not tend to be affected by outer air temperature, and also the battery8etc. can be protected from impacts from the outside. Even if the temperature of the battery8rises, heat can be released to the outside through an upper-cover groove section47(FIG. 5), a middle-cover groove section63(FIG. 18), and the like, to be described later. This can suppress a temperature increase inside the main body2. Similarly, even if hydrogen gas emanates from the battery8, the hydrogen gas can be released to the outside through the groove sections. The upper cover-groove section47serves as a U-shaped groove of the invention. The middle-cover groove section63serves as a U-shaped groove section of the invention.

Note that the buffer material2A may be provided at an area other than between the inner body25and the outer body24. That is, the buffer material2A may be provided between the inner body25and the battery8or may be provided at the inner body25, as long as the battery8can be protected from an external force. Further, in the present embodiment, the inner body25and the outer body24are formed by blow molding. However, the inner body25and the outer body24may be formed by double layer molding, and elastomer as the buffer material2A may be provided at the outer side of the inner body25or at the outer side of the outer body24.

A hook (not shown) is detachably provided at the outer body24so as to temporarily hook the adapter7or the adapter cable71. Further, a terminal accommodating section (not shown) is detachably provided at the outer body24so as to partially accommodate the connection section72of the adapter7. This prevents the terminal section72A of the adapter7from being exposed to the outside.

As shown inFIG. 4, a holding section31for holding the handle3is provided at a rear upper part of the outer body24. The holding section31is fixed to the main body2with a plurality of bolts or screws32. The holding section31has a bottom portion provided with a second damper31D capable of contacting the handle3. The second damper31D serves as an elastic member of the invention.

An upper chamber26, a middle chamber27, and a lower chamber28are formed within the main body2, in this order from the top. The inverter device5is arranged in the upper chamber26. The middle cover6and the adapter7are arranged in the middle chamber27. The battery8is arranged in the lower chamber28.

As shown inFIG. 3, a plurality of recessed sections25ais formed at the inner body25. Each of the plurality of recessed sections25ais depressed toward the outer body24opposing the inner body25. This configuration ensures a large space within the main body2, and increases rigidity of the inner body25. Further, the amount of used buffer material2A can be reduced, saving the manufacturing costs.

An abutting section25A at which the outer body24and the inner body25contact each other is provided at the lower surface of the inner body25. At the abutting section25A, the outer body24is provided with an outer body side abutting section25E depressed upward, and the inner body25is provided with an inner body side abutting section24A protruding downward so as to contact the outer body side abutting section25E. The abutting section25A is a horizontal surface extending in the overall width of the lower surface of the inner body25in the left-right direction (FIG. 2) and extending in a predetermined length of the lower surface of the inner body25in the front-rear direction (FIG. 3). The abutting section25A is provided at a position slightly offset forward from the center in the front-rear direction. The an outer body side abutting section25E serves as a second abutting section of the invention, and the inner body side abutting section24A serves as a first abutting section of the invention.

A drainage hole25bpenetrating through the outer body24and the inner body25is formed at the right end of the abutting section25A (FIG. 2). As shown inFIG. 3, slant sections25B are provided at the front and rear sides of the abutting section25A. The slant sections25B are slanted downward at least 1 degree toward the abutting section25A. With this configuration, water dropped on the bottom surface of the main body2flows along the slant of the slant sections25B, gathers at the abutting section25A, and then is discharged to the outside through the drainage hole25b.

As shown inFIG. 3, a battery plate82described later is disposed on the lower surface of the inner body25. A though hole2bpenetrating the outer body24and the inner body25is formed at a lower part of the main body2. A battery shaft83described later is inserted in the though hole2b. The detailed configurations will be described later.

As shown inFIGS. 6A and 21, four ribs25C protruding inward and holding the battery8are provided at the inner body25. The ribs25C extend in the upper-lower direction. The inner body25has generally rectangular cross-section and the ribs25C are provided at four corners of the cross-section in the lower chamber28. Slippage preventing members25D are provided between the respective ribs25C and the battery8for preventing the battery8from slipping (sliding) relative to the inner body25. The slippage preventing members25D also function as a buffer material between the battery8and the inner body25. The middle cover6is placed on an upper surface of the four ribs25C.

As shown inFIG. 4, the handle3includes a handle gripping section33, an abutment section34, extending sections35, and a reinforcing member36. The handle gripping section33has substantially a U-shape for being gripped by an operator. The abutment section34contacts the holding section31when the handle3is positioned in the extended position. The extending sections35connect the handle gripping section33with the abutment section34. The reinforcing member36extends in parallel with the abutment section34. As shown inFIG. 7, the handle3includes a first handle member37having substantially a semicircular shape in cross-section, and a second handle member38having the same shape as the first handle member37. More specifically, a first joint surface37A is provided at a straight part of the semicircular shape of the first handle member37, and a second joint surface38A is provided at a straight part of the semicircular shape of the second handle member38. The handle3is made by fixing the first joint surface37A with the second joint surface38A with a plurality of screws (not shown). In this way, the cross-section of the handle3has a half split shape that is plane-symmetrical with respect to the first joint surfaces37A and the second joint surface38A. This can improve the strength of the handle3with low-cost blow molding. However, the handle may have a hollow cylindrical shape unless it creates a problem in strength. Note that each of the first handle member37and the second handle member38has a hollow shape.

The abutment section34extends in a horizontal direction, and a buffer material34A is provided over the entirety of the abutment section34in the circumferential direction (FIG. 4). In the retracted position, the front side (the main body2side) of the buffer material34A is always in contact with the outer body24. This prevents rattles of the handle3.

In the present embodiment, rubber damper is adopted as an example of the buffer material34A. The extending sections35extend in the vertical direction and are movably supported on the holding section31in the upper-lower direction. When the handle3is located at the extended position (FIG. 8), the buffer material34A is in contact with the holding section31. As shown inFIG. 9A, even when the power supply device1falls rearward, the buffer material34A touches the ground first, and thus damages to other parts can be prevented. The reinforcing member36is a member for reinforcing the handle3. The reinforcing member36is provided to close the opening of the substantially U-shaped handle gripping section33. The buffer material34A serves as an elastic member of the invention.

As shown inFIG. 5, the holding section31includes handle holding sections31A that movably hold the handle3, an abutting section31B in parallel with the abutment section34, and a first damper31C. The handle holding sections31A are pressed metal parts. Two handle holding sections31A are provided so as to sandwich the first damper31C in the left-right direction, and are fixed to the main body2with the bolts32. The abutting section31B is provided with the second damper31D contactable with the buffer material34A. The second damper31D enables further cushioning for an impact generated upon contacting the abutment section34with the abutting section31B. As shown inFIG. 8, a width W1of the abutting section31B and the second damper31D in the left-right direction is smaller than a width W2of the abutment section34in the left-right direction (more specifically, a distance between the extending sections35). This can avoid a damage that occurs when connection sections R between the abutment section34and the extending sections35hit the abutting section31B. The abutting section31B also functions as a stopper that restricts movement of the handle3. The second damper31D serves as an elastic member of the invention. The abutting section31B serves as a stopper of the invention.

As shown inFIG. 9B, the first damper31C is provided at a position that is the farthest away from the main body2rearward. Even when the power supply device1falls rearward, the first damper31C touches the ground next to the buffer material34A to soften an impact acting on the main body2. Hence, damages etc. to components can be prevented when the power supply device1falls.

When the handle3is positioned in the retracted position as shown inFIG. 3, the handle gripping section33protrudes further upward than the uppermost end of the upper cover4or the inverter device5(the dotted lines) fixed to the upper cover4. A center of gravity G of the power supply device1is defined at a position as shown inFIG. 3. The center of gravity G and the handle gripping section33of the handle3is away from each other by a distance L. The distance L is determined so that the power supply device1in its 180 degrees reversed state (turned-over state) cannot be stably held. In the present embodiment, a lead battery for a vehicle use is adopted as an example of the battery8, as mentioned above. Hence, depending on the condition of the battery8, there is a possibility that dilute sulfuric acid of electrolyte leaks out. It is unlikely that dilute sulfuric acid leaks out of the battery8in a state where the power supply device1is fallen 90 degrees as shown inFIG. 10A. However, if the battery8is revered 180 degrees, there is a possibility that dilute sulfuric acid leaks out. In the present embodiment, the distance L is determined as described above. Thus, as shown inFIG. 10B, the handle3prohibits the power supply device1from maintaining the 180 degrees reversed state, which becomes the state shown inFIG. 10A. Furthermore, the center of gravity G shownFIG. 10Bis defined such a position that the power supply device1in a state shown inFIG. 10Bis bought into turn in a counterclockwise direction, and then is rested on the ground as shown inFIG. 10A. Accordingly, even if the power supply device1falls forward fast, leaking of dilute sulfuric acid from the battery8can be prevented. The handle gripping section33serves as a farthest protruding section of the invention.

The upper cover4has substantially a rectangular shape. As shown inFIGS. 11 and 12, the upper cover4includes a latch plate43, a wall section44provided at the periphery of the upper cover4, a latch engaging section45capable of engaging the latch42, and a hinge mounting section46to which the hinge41is attached. The upper cover4has an upper surface4A, a flat section4B, and a lower surface4C. The flat section4B is provided at a periphery of the upper cover4where the wall section44is not provided. The upper cover4is formed with the upper-cover groove section47, a first depressed section48formed in the lower surface4C, and a second depressed section49adjacent to the first depressed section48. The lower surface4C has an abutment surface4D in abutment with the adapter7in a state where the adapter7is mounted on the accommodating section54and the inverter device5is received on the receiving section64. The upper-cover groove section47has substantially a U-shape in cross-section perpendicular to the upper-lower direction. As shown inFIGS. 2 and 3, the upper cover4has a hollow inside for saving weight. The latch plate43serves as an inverter-device fixing section of the invention. The wall section44serves as a protruding section of the invention.

As shown inFIGS. 13 and 14, the upper cover4can be fixed to the inverter device5. As shown inFIG. 11, the latch plate43is provided with two engaging sections43A each protruding upward and spaced away from each other in the left-right direction with a predetermined distance therebetween. The engaging sections43A can engage engagement sections53A (FIG. 2) of mount-dismount buttons53provided to the inverter device5, thereby fixing the inverter device5to the upper cover4.

The latch plate43is fixed to the upper cover4with a plurality of screws and, by removing the screws, the latch plate43can be detached from the upper cover4.FIG. 15shows a top view of the upper cover4in a state where the latch plate43is detached from the upper cover4.FIG. 16is a cross-sectional view taken along a line XVI-XVI inFIG. 15. The upper surface4A and the flat section4B of the upper cover4is slanted downward toward the rear at least 1 degree. With this configuration, rain water is not collected around the engaging sections43A, and rain water can be discharged through a portion of the upper cover4where the wall section44does not exist (the flat section4B) as will be described later.

A peripheral section47A is provided over the entire periphery of the upper-cover groove section47. The peripheral section47A is slightly higher than the upper surface4A and the flat section4B. As shown inFIG. 2, the lower surface4C of the upper cover4is pressed against the inverter device5accommodated in the main body2, in at least part other than portions where the first depressed section48and the second depressed section49are formed. With this configuration, the inverter device5is immovable within the main body2. The peripheral section47A serves as a protruding wall of the invention.

The wall section44is provided at the periphery of the upper cover4, such that an opening of substantially a U-shape is located at the rear side (the handle side). As shown inFIG. 11, the flat section4B is provided at the periphery at the rear side of the upper cover4, where the wall section44is not provided between the wall section44and the peripheral section47A. With this configuration, when the operator turns the power supply device1rearward for carrying the power supply device1, water collected on the upper cover4is actively discharged to the outside from the upper cover4through the flat section4B. Because the peripheral section47A is provided at the periphery of the upper-cover groove section47, intrusion of water into the main body2can be suppressed when the power supply device1is tuned rearward. As shown inFIGS. 5 and 11, the height of the wall section44is higher than the height of the engaging sections43A. With this configuration, even if a plate-shaped member falls from above, the upper surface of the wall section44can receive the plate-shaped member, thereby preventing damages to the engaging sections43A. As shown inFIG. 14, the height of the wall section44is lower than the height of the inverter device5. This configuration enables the operator to visually check from the front side whether the inverter device5is mounted and a state of a display panel51of the inverter device5, without being blocked by the wall section44.

The latch engaging section45is provided at the left side surface of the upper cover4(FIG. 11). When the latch engaging section45engages the latch42, the upper cover4is fixed to the main body2. The hinge mounting section46is provided at the right side surface of the upper cover4(FIG. 12). The hinge41is attached to the hinge mounting section46.

The upper-cover groove section47is formed at the rear surface of the upper cover4. Cables of apparatuses accommodated within the main body2can be led to the outside through the upper-cover groove section47. As shown inFIG. 11, the upper-cover groove section47is formed at the rear surface of the upper cover4, and the adapter7is mounted on the rear side of the inverter device5(FIG. 14). Because the upper-cover groove section47is formed near a position at which the adapter7is mounted, cables or the like of the adapter7etc. can be readily taken to the outside of the main body2. In addition, exposure of wiring of the adapter7can be minimized, and the wiring can be arranged together compactly. In a state where the inverter device5is fixed to the upper cover4, the adapter cable71passes through the upper-cover groove section47. Accordingly, the cross-sectional area of a cross-section of the upper-cover groove section47perpendicular to the upper-lower direction is sufficiently larger than the cross-sectional area of the adapter cable71. As shown inFIGS. 12 and 16, a curved section47B is provided at the lower side of the upper-cover groove section47. The radius of curvature of the curved section47B is larger than the radius of curvature of another section (for example, a connection portion between the upper surface4A and the wall section44). This configuration prevents the cable passing through the upper-cover groove section47from being caught on an edge of the upper-cover groove section47.

As shown inFIGS. 2 and 3, the first depressed section48is depressed toward the inside of the upper cover4along the shape of an accommodating section54of the inverter device5protruding upward and described later. With this configuration, the first depressed section48can engage the accommodating section54. If a comparison is made between the inverter device5indicated by the dotted lines inFIG. 14and the inverter device5indicated by the solid lines, the adapter7is mounted on the inverter device5indicated by the solid lines and thus the adapter7protrudes to the rear side of the accommodating section54. Even if the operator tries to place the inverter device5on the middle cover6and to close the upper cover4in a state where the adapter7is mounted on the inverter device5, the lower surface4C around the first depressed section48contacts the adapter7and the upper cover4cannot be closed.

The battery8is so configured that, in use, hydrogen gas is discharged through a gas venting holes8adisposed at its center part (FIG. 6A). For the purpose of preventing the hydrogen gas from staying within the main body2, in the present embodiment, the U-shaped upper-cover groove section47is formed at the rear surface of the upper cover4so that the hydrogen gas can be readily discharged to the outside. On the other hand, a control circuit of the adapter7is so configured that a fuse provided in the control circuit of the adapter7blows out if a terminal of the adapter7has a short circuit due to incorporation of a foreign matter or a failure of a mounted apparatus. The fuse sparks when the fuse blows out. Hence, there is a concern that the fuse sparks in the upper chamber26in a hermetically-closed state, if the power supply device1is used in a state where the inverter device5is disposed on the upper chamber26, the inverter device5is connected with the adapter7and the upper cover4is closed, and the operator closes the upper-cover groove section47. Thus, the power supply device1is so configured that the upper cover4cannot be closed if the inverter device5is disposed in the upper chamber26when the adapter7is connected therewith.

In the present embodiment, in order to prevent the inside of the main body2from being filled with hydrogen gas, the power supply device1is so configured that the upper cover4cannot be closed in a state where the inverter device5is disposed on the middle cover6and the adapter7or the battery pack5C for a power tool is mounted on the inverter device5. With this configuration, even if the power supply device1is used in a state where the upper-cover groove section47as a ventilating opening is closed, the inverter device5cannot be used in a state where the inverter device5is located in the upper chamber26. Hence, a trouble caused by hydrogen gas can be avoided. Note that, when the fuse blows out, an electrical connection between the battery8and the inverter device5is cut off, and in this state hydrogen gas is not generated. Hydrogen gas is generated mainly during charging of the battery8. Further, if the power supply device1is left while the adapter7is mounted on the inverter device5, the power of the battery8is consumed by circuits of the inverter device5or the like. However, because the upper cover4cannot be closed in a state where the adapter7is mounted on the inverter device5, unnecessary power consumption of the battery8can be suppressed.

The second depressed section49is formed at a position adjacent to the first depressed section48. The second depressed section49is engageable with the accommodating section54. The second depressed section49is provided for increasing the rigidity of the upper cover4.

The inverter device5is accommodated in the main body2in a state where the inverter device5is interposed between the upper cover4and the middle cover6. As shown inFIG. 24, the inverter device5includes the display panel51for displaying states of the inverter device5, an output cable52, the mount-dismount buttons53, the accommodating section54that accommodates the adapter7or the battery pack5C for a power tool indicated by the dotted lines, a power input section55that receives inputs from the outside (FIG. 3), the power cable56detachably connected with the power input section55, and band hooking sections57. The inverter device5has side protruding sections5A protruding toward the sides and configured to be engageable with the middle cover6, and a front protruding section5B protruding forward and configured to be engageable with the middle cover6. The connection section72of the adapter7for electrically connecting with the inverter device5has the same shape as the battery pack5C for a power tool. With this configuration, it is unnecessary to provide the inverter device5with respective connection sections for the adapter7and for the battery pack5C for a power tool, thereby preventing the inverter device5from becoming large.

The display panel51is provided with an LED lamp. The operator can determine, based on a state of lighting or blinking of the LED lamp, whether the battery is being used as a power source, the battery is being charged, or a malfunction has occurred at the power supply device1. Either a DC voltage inputted from the battery8via the adapter7or a DC voltage inputted from the battery pack5C for a power tool is outputted from the output cable52as a 100V AC voltage.

The mount-dismount buttons53are provided at the both ends of the inverter device5in the left-right direction. By pressing the mount-dismount buttons53, the inverter device5can be mounted on or dismounted from the upper cover4. The inverter device5is fixed to the upper cover4via an engagement between the engaging sections43A of the latch plate43and engagement sections53A of the mount-dismount buttons53. The band hooking sections57are provided at the both ends of the front portion of the inverter device5in left-right direction, so that a shoulder band (not shown) can be hooked. With this configuration, the inverter device5can be used stand alone by taking the inverter device5out of the main body2and hooking the shoulder band at the band hooking sections57. In this case, transportability can be improved by using the battery pack5C for a power tool as the power source of the inverter device5. Further, when the operator wishes to use the battery8via the adapter7, by detaching the inverter device5from the upper cover4and carrying the inverter device5with the shoulder band, a power tool such as a driver drill etc. and the battery pack5C for a power tool can be placed on the upper surface of the upper cover4. Thus, usage can be broadened.

The middle cover6is disposed in the middle chamber27and separates the upper chamber26from the lower chamber28. As shown inFIG. 17, the middle cover6has a surrounding wall61by which a bottom surface6A is defined. An adapter accommodating section62for accommodating the adapter7is formed at the center of the middle cover6. The middle-cover groove section63is formed at the surrounding wall61at the rear side (FIG. 18). As shown inFIGS. 2 and 3, the middle cover6has a hollow inside for saving weight. The rigidity of the main body2is increased by filling the buffer material2A between the outer body24and the inner body25for supporting the heavy battery8(15 kg). However, because the adapter7is light weight (1 kg), the adapter7can be supported although the middle cover6has a hollow inside. The adapter accommodating section62serves as an accommodating portion of the invention.

The bottom surface6A is a horizontal surface. Two through holes6aare formed in the bottom surface6A to penetrate the bottom surface6A in the upper-lower direction. The two through holes6aare located adjacent to the surrounding wall61at the right and left sides, respectively, and away from each other by a predetermined distance. The upper chamber26and the lower chamber28are in communication with each other through the two through holes6aand the middle-cover groove section63. The two through holes6afunction as drainage holes for discharging water collected in the adapter accommodating section62, and also functions as gas venting holes for removing hydrogen gas that emanates from the battery8. This configuration can prevent water from being collected in the adapter accommodating section62and can prevent hydrogen gas emanating from the battery8from filling the lower chamber28.

The upper surfaces of the surrounding wall61at the front, right, and left sides are depressed downward to form receiving sections64. The inverter device5can be placed on the receiving sections64. The side protruding sections5A of the inverter device5are placed on the receiving sections64at the left and right sides, and the front protruding section5B of the inverter device5is placed on the receiving section64at the front side. With this configuration, in a state where the inverter device5is placed on the middle cover6, the inverter device5is immovable on the middle cover6in the front-rear direction and in the left-right direction. A cable receiving section65depressed downward is provided at the surrounding wall61at the rear side. The cable receiving section65is provided for supporting the output cable52etc. extending from the rear side of the inverter device5when the inverter device5is placed on the middle cover6. That is, the cable receiving section65is provided at the surrounding wall61in the direction in which the respective cables extend, when the inverter device5is placed on the middle cover6.

A first curved section66is provided at a connection between the cable receiving section65provided at the surrounding wall61at the rear side and the middle-cover groove section63. The radius of curvature of a connecting portion between the bottom surface of the cable receiving section65and the side surface connecting the surrounding wall61at the rear side with the middle-cover groove section63is set to a large value, i.e., the first curved section66has a large radius of curvature. This configuration prevents the adapter cable71from being caught on the surrounding wall61when the adapter7is accommodated in the adapter accommodating section62.

The adapter accommodating section62is provided substantially at a center portion of the middle cover6as viewed from the top (FIG. 18), and is located at a position lower than the receiving sections64(FIG. 17). The adapter accommodating section62has a volume enough to accommodate the adapter7and a portion of the adapter cable71. With this configuration, the adapter7can be accommodated in the adapter accommodating section62in a state where the inverter device5is placed on the middle cover6(FIG. 2). Further, if the adapter7is not accommodated in the adapter accommodating section62since the adapter7is mounted on the inverter device5or the like, another apparatus with a size that can be accommodated in the adapter accommodating section62, such as the battery pack5C for a power tool, may be accommodated. With this configuration, an apparatus other than the power supply device1can be carried together with the power supply device1, when the power supply device1is carried. Thus, transportability can be improved.

As shown inFIG. 18, the middle-cover groove section63has substantially a U-shape in a plan view. The adapter cable71accommodated in the adapter accommodating section62can be pulled out through the middle-cover groove section63. As shown inFIG. 18, the middle-cover groove section63is formed on the surrounding wall61at the rear side. As shown inFIG. 3, the battery8is also disposed in the lower chamber28such that the terminals81are located at the rear side. Because the middle-cover groove section63is formed at the same side as the terminals81are disposed, the length of the adapter cable71can be minimized when the adapter7is accommodated in the adapter accommodating section62.

As shown inFIG. 19, a second curved section63A is provided at a connection between the bottom surface6A and the middle-cover groove section63, at the periphery of the middle-cover groove section63. A third curved section63B is provided directly below the second curved section63A. The radii of curvature of the second curved section63A and the third curved section63B are identical, and are larger than the radii of curvature of other sections (for example, a connection between the surrounding wall61and the bottom surface6A). The radii of curvature of the second curved section63A and the third curved section63B are larger than the radius of curvature of the curved section47B. This is because the adapter cable71tends to be caught on the middle-cover groove section63since the middle cover6is located directly above the battery8.

As shown inFIG. 3, the holding section31is located at the rear side of and slightly above the middle cover6. At the holding section31, the distance between the outer body24and the inner body25is small for reinforcing fixing of the handle holding sections31A to the main body2. With this configuration, a cable accommodating space6bis defined by the inner body25, the upper cover4, the inverter device5, and the middle cover6. More specifically, the cable accommodating space6bis defined at a position opposing the inverter device5in a state where the inverter device5is placed on the middle cover6. The cable accommodating space6baccommodates the output cable52extending from the rear surface of the inverter device5when the inverter device5is placed on the middle cover6and accommodates the adapter cable71. With this configuration, it is unnecessary to make the outer body24etc. protrude in order to form a space for accommodating the cables. Hence, an increase in the size of the power supply device1can be suppressed. The cable accommodating space6bserves as a concave section of the invention.

As shown inFIGS. 20 through 22, the battery8is fixed to the main body2via the battery plate82, the battery shafts83, a support plate85, and bolts86. The battery plate82is placed on the main body2and has substantially a plate shape. The battery shafts83extend upward from the both ends of the battery plate82in the left-right direction. The support plate85is fixed to the one end of each of the battery shafts83with wing bolts84. Each bolt86is threadingly mounted on the other end of the battery shaft83. A first antislip member82B is provided between the battery plate82and the battery8(FIG. 22). A second antislip member82C is provided between the inner body25and the battery plate82. In the present embodiment, a rubber damper is adopted as an example of the first and second antislip members82B,82C. The battery plate82is made of metal. As shown inFIG. 23, the battery plate82includes two restricting sections82A formed by bending upward the both ends in the front-rear direction. A distance D1between the two restricting sections82A is slightly larger than a distance D2of the battery8in the front-rear direction (FIG. 22). With this configuration, movement of the battery8in the front-rear direction is restricted. Shaft through holes82ainto which the battery shafts83inserted are formed in the battery plate82at positions shifted slightly forward from the center in the front-rear direction. The two shaft through holes82aare formed with a predetermined distance therebetween in the left-right direction. Each battery shaft83penetrates the shaft through hole82aand the though hole2bformed in the main body2and is fixed to the main body2with the bolt86. The battery8can be readily positioned with the restricting sections82A of the battery plate82and the battery shafts83, when the battery8is placed on the battery plate82. The restricting sections82A serve as a positioning protrusion of the present invention. The shaft through holes82aserve as first holes of the invention.

As shown inFIG. 3, the battery8is supported by the battery shafts83in the lower chamber28at a position shifted slightly forward from the center in the front-rear direction. When the outer body24and the inner body25are made with blow molding, recessed portions need to be formed for accommodating the wheels21. However, there is a problem that, if the recessed portions and the abutting section25A are close to each other, that shape cannot be held in blow molding. On the other hand, there is a problem that, if the gas venting holes8afor discharging hydrogen gas is disposed at a center portion of the battery8and if the battery plate82is disposed at the center portion of the battery8, the battery plate82closes the gas venting holes8a. In order to avoid these problems, the size of the main body2could be simply increased. In the present embodiment, however, the battery8is supported by the battery shafts83at a position shifted forward slightly from the center in the front-rear direction, so that the distance between the recessed portions accommodating the wheels21and the abutting section25A is sufficiently large. This achieves downsizing of the main body2and cost reduction.

As shown inFIG. 2, the battery8is fixed to the main body2in the lower chamber28at a position slightly shifted leftward from the center in the left-right direction. Because the upper cover4pivotally moves about the hinge41, the center of gravity of the power supply device1shifts rightward when the upper cover4is opened. The battery8is fixed at the position slightly shifted leftward from the center of the main body2, so that the center of gravity of the power supply device1is kept at a position close to the center in the left-right direction even when the upper cover4is opened. With this configuration, because a space is formed at the right side of the battery8, the drainage hole25bis formed in the abutting section25A at a position facing the space.

As shown inFIG. 2, the battery8is restricted from moving in the left-right direction by the battery shafts83extending upward from the both ends in the left-right direction. As shown inFIG. 22, an elastic material87is provided between the support plate85and the upper surface of the battery8for protecting the same and for preventing slippage of the battery8. The support plate85has width ends portion each formed with through holes85athrough which the battery shaft83extends. The support plate85and the elastic material87are pressed against the battery8by the wing bolts84, thereby restricting movement of the battery8in the upper-lower direction. With this configuration, the battery8is completely fixed to the main body2. The support plate85is provided with an insulating member85A over a distance D3in the widthwise direction (FIG. 20). As shown inFIG. 6A, the distance D3is larger than a distance D4between the terminals81. This configuration suppresses a situation in which the support plate85contacts the terminals of the battery8and a short circuit occurs when the battery8is replaced. The through hole85aserves as a second hole of the invention.

As shown inFIGS. 6A and 6B, a cable71A extends from the adapter cable71to each terminal81, and a crimping terminal71B is provided at an end of the cable71A. The crimping terminal71B includes a terminal engaging section71C that engages the terminal81and a cable receiving section71D in which the cable71A is inserted. The terminal engaging section71C and the terminals81are connected with each other so that the adapter7and the battery8are electrically connected. In a state shown inFIG. 6A, the terminal81at the right side is a plus terminal, and the terminal81at the left side is a minus terminal. Because the terminal engaging section71C is fixed to the plus terminal81, the adapter cable71can be prevented from coming off the battery8due to vibrations or the like that are generated when the power supply device1is carried.

A thermistor88serving as temperature detecting means is provided on the crimping terminal71B adjacent to a position where the plus terminal81engages the cable71A. As shown inFIG. 6B, in a state where the thermistor88is fixed to an end of a thermistor cable88A, the thermistor88and the thermistor cable88A are inserted in the cable receiving section71D and then that section is fixed by crimping (pressure bonding). Epoxide resin is applied in the inner peripheral surface of the cable receiving section71D, which prevents the thermistor88from being damaged by crimping. The thermistor cable88A is connected with the adapter7in order to detect the temperature of the battery8.

As shown inFIGS. 6C and 6D, two thermal protectors89are fixed to the minus terminal81with a bolt. Cables of the thermal protectors89are connected with the adapter7, so that battery malfunction can be detected. The two thermal protectors89are held by a copper holder90, and are fixed to the copper holder90with silicone89A. The copper holder90is fixed to the minus terminal81of the adapter7with a bolt. One of the thermal protectors89is arranged at the cigarette socket provided at the adapter7for outputting a DC 12V voltage and at an output path of the battery8. The remaining of the thermal protectors89is arranged at a charging path of the battery8and at a power supplying path to the inverter device5.

When the battery temperature becomes high (for example, 65 degrees Celsius or higher) due to battery malfunction etc., the thermal protectors89becomes an open state and the above-mentioned path is cut off. Thus, charge and discharge can be stopped at the time of battery malfunction.

Normally, the temperature of a storage battery does not increase very much even if the storage battery is used continuously for a long time. However, if the storage battery is used under a high or low temperature environment, performance degradation of the battery or a failure of the battery sometimes occurs. Hence, in the present embodiment, usage conditions relating to temperature is provided. As the configuration for controlling temperature, the thermistor88is provided for controlling temperature of a power supply to the inverter device5side, and the two thermal protectors89are provided for controlling outputs to the cigarette socket plug and for protecting the device from high temperature at charging.

Further, for the purpose of improving accuracy of temperature control, the one thermistor88is directly mounted on the plus terminal81of the battery8, and the two thermal protectors89are directly mounted on the minus terminal81of the battery8. Note that the two thermal protectors89are directly mounted on the minus terminal81. Also, in order to read temperature accurately, the two thermal protectors89are directly bonded to the copper holder90with silicone89A and are fixed to the terminal with a nut (bolt). This configuration can prevent dropping off, disconnection, or the like of the thermal protectors89and the thermistor88due to vibrations etc. during transportation etc., and can improve accuracy of controlling temperature.

As shown inFIGS. 6A through 6D, after the end of the adapter cable71is fixed to the terminal81, the adapter cable71is fixed to the support plate85with a banding band. This configuration prevents a situation in which a load (force) acts on a portion where the adapter cable71is connected with the terminals81, so that the portion is damaged or broken.

The plurality of gas venting holes8ais formed in the upper surface of the battery8for venting hydrogen gas of the battery8. The support plate85is provided at a position shifted from the gas venting holes8a.

The first modification is illustrated inFIGS. 25 through 27. In the first modification, a sine-wave adapter9is placed on the middle cover6, and the inverter device5is fixed to the upper cover4.

The sine-wave adapter9is a device configured to convert a square-wave AC voltage outputted from the inverter device5to a sine-wave AC voltage. By connecting the output cable52of the inverter device5with the sine-wave adapter9and by acquiring an output from the sine-wave adapter9, the power supply device1can be used as a 100V sine-wave AC power source.

As shown inFIG. 27, the sine-wave adapter9includes engaging sections91configured to engage the inverter device5, a display section92that displays setting conditions of the sine-wave adapter9, a setting section93that sets output frequency of the sine-wave adapter9, an output cable94, and an input section95that receives inputs from the outside (FIG. 26). The sine-wave adapter9has side protruding sections9A protruding toward the sides and configured to engage the middle cover6, and a front protruding section9B protruding forward and configured to engage the middle cover6. The engaging sections91have shapes that are substantially identical to the shapes of the engaging sections43A provided at the latch plate43, and protrude upward. The operator can operate the mount-dismount buttons53provided at the inverter device5to mount the inverter device5on the sine-wave adapter9or dismount the inverter device5from the sine-wave adapter9. With this configuration, the inverter device5and the sine-wave adapter9can be integrally carried, and usage can be broadened.

The display section92is provided with two LED lamps. One of the LED lamps turns on when the setting section93is set to 50 Hz, and the other one of the LED lamps turns on when the setting section93is set to 60 Hz. An insertion plug94A is provided at an end of the output cable94. An output from the inverter device5is inputted in the input section95.

The cable accommodating space6baccommodates the output cable94extending from the rear surface of the sine-wave adapter9when the sine-wave adapter9is placed on the middle cover6. The side protruding sections9A of the sine-wave adapter9are respectively placed on the receiving sections64at the left and right sides. The front protruding section9B of the sine-wave adapter9is placed on the receiving section64at the front side. With this configuration, in a state where the sine-wave adapter9is placed on the middle cover6, the sine-wave adapter9is immovable on the middle cover6in the front-rear direction and in the left-right direction.

In a state where the sine-wave adapter9is placed on the middle cover6as shown inFIG. 25, there is a possibility that a maximum of three cables passes through the upper-cover groove section47, the three cables including the adapter cable71, the output cable52extending from the inverter device5to the sine-wave adapter9, and the output cable94extending from the sine-wave adapter9. A cross section of the upper-cover groove section47perpendicular to the upper-lower direction has a cross-sectional area through which these three cables can pass.

A second modification is illustrated inFIGS. 28A and 28B. In the second modification, pressing sections139are provided at the handle3. In the above-described embodiment, a front-side (the main body2side) member of the buffer material34A contacts the outer body24to prevent rattles of the handle3. In the second modification, the pressing sections139contact the outer body24to prevent rattles of the handle3.

Two pressing sections139are provided at each extending section35with a predetermined distance therebetween in the upper-lower direction, and four pressing sections139are provided at the handle3in total. As shown inFIG. 38, each pressing section139protrudes forward (toward the main body2side). When the handle3is in the retracted position, all of the four pressing sections139contact the main body2. Thus, because the handle3contact the outer body24at four positions, rattles of the handle3can be prevented reliably. When the handle3is in the extended position, only the two lower pressing sections139contact the outer body24. Thus, even in a state where the handle3is pulled out, rattles of the handle3can be prevented.

A rubber grip section133is provided at the handle gripping section33, so that the operator can readily grip the handle gripping section33.

A third modification is illustrated inFIGS. 29 through 31. In the above-described embodiment, the abutting section31B is adopted as a stopper of the handle3. In the third modification, a protruding section224A serves as the stopper.

In the third modification, the protruding section224A is provided to protrude outward from the rear surface of the outer body24. The end of the buffer material34A at the outer body24side is located at the outer body24side of an imaginary line that extends in parallel with the extending sections35from the protruding section224A of the outer body24located above the end. That is, the protruding section224A of the outer body24is located farther rearward than the end of the buffer material34A. With this configuration, when the handle3is in the extended position, the protruding section224A contacts the buffer material34A. This can suppresses unintended movement of the handle3toward the extended position relative to the main body2.

Unless it creates a problem in strength, as in the third modification, the protruding section224A may be provided at the main body2as an alternative of the abutting section31B, and the protruding section224A may contact the abutment section34, thereby preventing damages to a connection position R between the abutment section34and the extending sections35with relatively inexpensive configurations. Further, only the shape of the abutment section34may be a square (rectangular) shape, and the protruding section224A may contact the abutment section34. With this configuration, a contact may be performed smoothly even if the height of the protruding section provided at the main body2is low.

According to the above-described power supply device, the following effects can be obtained.

The inverter device5and the battery8having a large capacity are accommodated in the main body2so that the power supply device1can be carried. Thus, electric power of AC voltage can be supplied over a long period of time in an area where no electric power of commercial AC voltage is supplied, for example, a disaster area due to a great earthquake. Further, because the power supply device1has the rechargeable battery8, the battery8can be charged by connecting the inverter device5with a commercial AC power source in an area where electric power of commercial AC voltage is supplied.

The inverter device5can be fixed on the upper cover4. Hence, when the sine-wave adapter9is accommodated within the main body2, the inverter device5can be fixed to the engaging sections43A and arranged on the outer surface of the upper cover4. Hence, the outer size of the main body2can be made small. Further, the power supply device1includes the sine-wave adapter9that converts a square-wave AC voltage outputted from the inverter device5to a sine-wave AC voltage and that outputs the sine-wave AC voltage. Thus, electric power of a sine-wave AC voltage can be supplied.

The sine-wave adapter9can be accommodated in the main body2, thereby realizing the compact power supply device1. Since the latch plate43is provided with the engaging sections43A for engaging the engagement sections53A of the mount-dismount buttons53, the inverter device5can be readily fixed on the upper cover4.

The inverter device5can be used standalone separating from the engaging sections43A of the upper cover4, thereby providing user friendly power supply device1.

Either the battery8or the battery pack5C for a power tool can be selectively used in the inverter device5. An operator can use the battery8or the battery pack5C for a power tool as necessary, which improves the convenience of the power supply device1.

The adapter7having the same connection section72as the battery pack5C for a power tool connects the inverter device5with the battery8. Thus, by providing single accommodating section54at the inverter device5, the adapter7or the battery pack5C for a power tool can be selectively mounted on the accommodating section54.

When the inverter device5is accommodated in the main body2and the adapter7or the battery pack5C is mounted on the inverter device5, the upper cover4cannot be closed. This prevents the main body2from be filled with hydrogen gas upon generating the same from the battery8. Even if the adapter7is provided with a fuse and the fuse is blowout, hydrogen gas explosion can be avoided.

Because the battery8is a lead storage battery for a vehicle use, the battery8with a large capacity can be used. Further, because the inverter device5can be connected with the battery pack5C for a power tool, either the battery8or the battery pack5C can be used depending on the usage. If the battery8is used, the operating time of an apparatus connected with the power supply device1can be made longer than the operating time when the battery pack5C for a power tool is used. If the battery pack5C for a power tool is used, the inverter device5can be carried while being slung on the shoulder or the like.

The handle3is provided at the main body2for being gripped to carry the main body2. The handle3is held by the handle holding sections31A provided at the main body2. Thus, the power supply device1can be moved readily.

The handle3includes the first handle member37and the second handle member38. Thus, the handle3can be made by blow molding thereby saving costs. In addition, the handle3has strength to an extent that the power supply device1can be carried by gripping the handle3in a state where the battery8is accommodated within the main body2. Further, because the first handle member37and the second handle member38have an identical shape, the handle members37and38can be manufactured with the same mold and thus the manufacturing costs can be reduced.

The main body2is provided with the abutting section31B that restricts movement of the handle3. Thus, even though the handle3is manufactured by blow molding, the above-described configuration can prevent a situation in which, when the handle3moves, the handle3contacts a portion other than the abutting section31B in the extended position and then the handle3is damaged. Further, because a press component is used as the abutting section31B, the inexpensive abutting section31B and the handle3which is an inexpensive component made by blow molding can be used in combination, thereby reducing the manufacturing costs of the power supply device1.

The second damper31D is provided at the abutting section31B, and the buffer material34A is provided at the abutment section34. This reduces collision load that is generated between the abutting section31B and the handle3when the handle3is forcefully moved from the retracted position to the extended position. Hence, durability of the handle3and the abutting section31B can be improved.

The buffer material34A is provided over the entire periphery of the abutment section34. Thus, even when the main body2falls and the handle3comes close to the ground, floor, or the like, the buffer material34A hits the ground, floor, or the like. This softens an impact when the handle3hits the ground, floor, or the like, and thus can prevent damages to the handle3.

Because the buffer material34A is a rubber damper, the buffer material34A can be made of inexpensive and simple material.

The handle3protrudes from the upper cover4at the retracted position. When the power supply device1is upside down by 180 degree, a top portion of the handle3protruding from the upper cover4and the center of gravity G each projected to a plane perpendicular to the upper-lower direction is away from each other such that the power supply device1cannot maintain the upside down orientation. If the power supply device1is placed at the upside down orientation, the tope portion of the handle3is in contact with the ground. At this time, because only the top portion contacts the ground, the power supply device1is in an unstable state. Then, the power supply device1is brought into tilting until a portion other than the top portion of the handle3is in contact with the ground. That is, the power supply device1cannot be maintained at the upside down orientation for a long period of time. Hence, even if a power source accommodated in the power supply device1is a lead battery, liquid leakage from the battery8can be avoided.

The handle3is movable between the retracted position and the extended position. The top portion of the handle3positioned at the retracted position is located at a position higher than the top edge of the upper cover4. This prevents the power supply device1from being maintained at the upside down orientation and thus effectively prevents the liquid leakage from the battery8.

Because the wheels21are provided at the main body2, the power supply device1can be moved easily.

The latch plate43is provided at the upper cover4. By fixing the inverter device5to the upper cover4, the display panel51of the inverter device5can be used in an easily viewable state. In addition, access to the inverter device5can be facilitated.

Because the battery8and the inverter device5are accommodated in the main body2, the battery8and the inverter device5can be integrally carried.

The engaging sections43A of the latch plate43protrude from the upper cover4, and the upper cover4is provided with the wall section44that protrudes farther than the engaging sections43A. This configuration can prevent the engaging sections43A from being hit by another object and protect the engaging sections43A.

The upper surface4A of the upper cover4is slanted downward toward the flat section4B. With this configuration, when rain water etc. falls on the slanted surface, the rain water flows toward the flat section4B of the upper cover4. Hence, rain water etc. can be prevented from being collected on the outer surface of the upper cover4.

The upper surface4A of the upper cover4is slanted downward toward the flat section4B at least 1 degree. Hence, rain water etc. can be discharged effectively.

Because the upper-cover groove section47is formed in the upper cover4, the cables connected with the inverter device5etc. can pass through the upper-cover groove section47inward from outside the main body2or outward from inside the main body2.

Because the peripheral section47A is provided at the periphery of the upper-cover groove section47, rain water etc. can be prevented from running into the main body2through the upper-cover groove section47.

The first depressed section48has a shape following the shape of the accommodating section54. Thus, in a state where the adapter7is mounted on the accommodating section54, the lower surface4C around the first depressed section48contacts the adapter7, and the opening2acannot be closed with the upper cover4.

The inverter device5is accommodated in the upper chamber26, the middle cover6is accommodated in the middle chamber27, and the battery8is accommodated in the lower chamber28. Hence, the battery8, the inverter device5, and the middle cover6can be accommodated compactly in the main body2.

The cable accommodating space6bis formed such that the cable accommodating space6bopposes the inverter device5when the inverter device5is placed on the middle cover6. Thus, the cable accommodating space6bcan accommodate the adapter cable71for connecting the inverter device5with the battery8, and forceful folding of the adapter cable71can be avoided.

Because the power supply device1further includes the sine-wave adapter9that can be accommodated in the upper chamber26, electric power of a sine-wave AC voltage can be supplied from the power supply device1.

The middle cover6is provided within the main body2for dividing the space within the main body2into the upper chamber26and the lower chamber28. The battery8is accommodated in the lower chamber28, and the inverter device5can be accommodated in the upper chamber26. Hence, the main body2can compactly accommodate the battery8and the inverter device5.

The middle cover6is provided with the receiving section64for receiving the inverter device5, and the inverter device5is held by the receiving section64and the upper cover4. Hence, it is unnecessary to provide another member for fixing the inverter device5within the main body2.

The battery8is in electrical connection with the inverter device5via the adapter7. The middle cover6is formed with the adapter accommodating section62located at a position lower than the receiving section64. The adapter accommodating section62is capable of accommodating the adapter7. By accommodating the adapter7within the main body2, outside impact directly exerted on the adapter7can be avoided.

Because the inverter device5on which the adapter7is mounted on the accommodating section54can be placed on the receiving section64, the adapter7and the inverter device5can be compactly accommodated in the main body2.

The cable accommodating space6bis formed such that the cable accommodating space6bopposes the sine-wave adapter9when the sine-wave adapter9is placed on the middle cover6. Thus, the cable accommodating space6bcan accommodate a cable for connecting the sine-wave adapter9with the battery8, and forceful folding of the cable can be avoided.

Because the middle-cover groove section63is formed in the middle cover6, cables etc. connected with the battery8are allowed to pass through the middle-cover groove section63from the lower side to the upper side, or from the upper side to the lower side of the middle cover6.

Because the through hole6ais formed in the middle cover6, rain water etc. that has entered the upper chamber26can flow to the lower chamber28. Further, even if by any chance hydrogen gas emanates from the battery8in the lower chamber28, the hydrogen gas can be vented to the upper chamber26.

Because the buffer material2A is filled between the outer body24and the inner body25, temperature changes within the main body2can be suppressed, and performance of the battery8can be stabilized. Further, the buffer material2A can absorb an impact that is generated when another object hits the outer body24, and thus the battery8and the inverter device5accommodated in the main body2can be protected.

Because the buffer material2A is provided in the main body2, the battery8accommodated in the main body2can be protected, and the liquid leakage from the battery8due to an impact from outside can be prevented.

The main body2is constituted by the inner body25defining the space within the main body2and the buffer material2A is provided outside of the inner body25. Thus, the battery8can be protected by the buffer material2A and the inner body25, and the liquid leakage from the battery8due to the impact from outside can be prevented.

The main body2is constituted by the outer body24serving as the outer shell. The buffer material2A is provided between the inner body25and the outer body24. Hence, the battery8is protected by the outer body24, the inner body25, and the buffer material2A, thereby preventing the liquid leakage from the battery8due to the impact from outside.

The outer body24is provided with the outer body side abutting section25E depressed upward, and the inner body25is provided with the inner body side abutting section24A protruding downward at a position facing the outer body side abutting section25E. Thus, the position of the inner body25relative to the outer body24can readily be decided upon assembling the main body2.

The drainage hole25bis formed in the inner body25, and the inner body25has the slant sections25B slanted downward toward the drainage hole25b. Thus, rain water that has entered the main body2can flow to the drainage hole25band can be discharged to the outside.

The through hole2bextending through the outside of the main body2and the inside of the same is formed at the bottom surface of the main body2. The slant section25B slanted downward toward the through hole2bis provided on the bottom surface of the inner body25. Hence, rain water intruding in the main body2flows to the through hole2band then is discharged outside of the main body2.

The abutting section25A is provided at a vertical position above the slant section25B, and the through hole2bis formed at the abutting section25A. Hence, rain water intruding in the main body2flows to the through hole2bformed at the abutting section25A, and then is discharged outside of the main body2.

The buffer material2A has thermal insulation properties, preventing the temperature variation in the main body2and thus stabilizing the performance of the battery8. The buffer material2A absorbs the impact upon contacting the outer body24with other member, which protects the battery8and the inverter device5each accommodated in the main body2. Since the battery8is accommodated in the main body2and the inverter device5can be accommodated in the main body2, the battery8and the inverter device5are integrally carried.

Because the slant sections25B are slanted at 1 degree or more with respect to the horizontal surface, rain water that has entered the main body2can flow to the drainage hole25befficiently.

The battery8is supported by the battery shafts83at the left and right sides thereof, and contacts the restricting sections82A at the front and rear sides thereof. Thus, the battery8can be stably held in the left-right direction, and the battery8can also be stably positioned in the front-rear direction intersecting the left-right direction because of contacts between the ends of the battery8and the restricting sections82A.

The battery plate82is formed with the shaft through hole82aat both ends thereof in the right-left direction and is provided with the restricting sections82A formed at both ends thereof in the front-rear direction. The bottom portion of the battery shaft83is inserted into the shaft through hole82a. Hence, the battery8can be stably held not only in the right-left direction but also in the front-rear direction because of the abutment with the restricting section82A.

The slippage preventing members25D is provided between the battery plate82and the ribs25C (the inner body25) for preventing the battery plate82from slipping relative to the inner body25. Hence, the battery plate82can be stably held relative to the inner body25.

The first antislip member82B is provided between the battery plate82and the battery8for preventing the battery8from slipping relative to the battery plate82. Hence, the battery8can be stably held relative to the battery plate82.

Because the first antislip member82B is made from rubber damper, hold of the battery plate82relative to the inner body25and hold of the battery8relative to the battery plate82can readily and effectively realized.

The slippage preventing members25D and82B are rubber dampers. Hence, the battery plate82can be held relative to the inner body25and the battery8can be held relative to the battery plate82easily and effectively.

The elastic material87provided on the surface of the support plate85has a longitudinal length longer than the distance between the terminals81. Thus, even when the support plate85is detached from the battery shafts83for replacing the battery8and the support plate85is dropped on the terminals81by mistake, a short circuit can be prevented.

Because the inverter device5is mountable on the upper cover4, the inverter device5can be cooled by outer atmosphere, thereby preventing heat of the inverter device5from staying within the main body2.

In the above-described embodiment, the main body2can accommodate therein either one of the inverter device5and the sine-wave adapter9. However, the height of the main body2may be increased so that the main body2can accommodate therein both of the inverter device5and the sine-wave adapter9. In this case, too, it is preferable that the upper cover4be so configured that the upper cover4cannot be closed in a state where the adapter7is mounted in the accommodating section54.

Although, in the above-described embodiment, the single drainage hole25bis formed at the abutting section25A, a plurality of drainage holes may be formed. With this configuration, even when a large amount of water enters the main body2, water can be discharged to the outside promptly.

Although urethane is adopted as the buffer material2A in the above-described embodiment, another material such as polystyrene may be adopted. Alternatively, the buffer material2A may be omitted.

Although polyethylene is adopted as the inner body25in the above-described embodiment, polypropylene may be adopted as the inner body25.

In the above-described embodiment, the first handle member37and the second handle member38are combined to form the handle3. However, the handle3may be made of metal.

In the above-described embodiment, the buffer material34A is provided at the handle3, and the second damper31D is provided at the abutting section31B. However, either one of the buffer material34A and the second damper31D may be provided.

Further, a buffer material may be provided at the lower surface of the reinforcing member36. With this configuration, when the operator presses the handle3down, the upper surface of the holding section31and the buffer material contact, and an impact can be softened.

In the above-described embodiment, the upper-cover groove section47is provided at the rear surface of the upper cover4. However, the upper-cover groove section47may be provided any surface other than the side surface at which the hinge mounting section46is provided. Further, a plurality of the upper-cover groove sections47may be provided.

In the above-described embodiment, the inverter device5can be placed on the middle cover6. However, members corresponding to the engaging sections43A may be provided at the middle cover6so that the inverter device5can be fixed to the middle cover6. Further, an engaging section may be provided at the middle cover6for engaging the bottom surface of the sine-wave adapter9and for fixing the sine-wave adapter9.

In the above-described embodiment, the adapter7and a portion of the adapter cable71are accommodated in the adapter accommodating section62. However, the battery pack5C may be accommodated in the adapter accommodating section62. Further, the adapter accommodating section62may be so configured that the adapter7and the battery pack5C can be accommodated at the same time.

In the above-described embodiment, the adapter7is accommodated in the adapter accommodating section62such that the adapter7is placed on the bottom surface6A of the middle cover6. However, a member for fixing the adapter7may be provided at the adapter accommodating section62, so that the adapter7is immovable.

In the above-described embodiment, the bottom surface6A of the middle cover6is a horizontal surface. However, the bottom surface6A may be slanted downward toward the through holes6a. This enables a structure where water is further unlikely to be collected at the adapter accommodating section62.

Although, in the above-described embodiment, the middle-cover groove section63is provided at the surrounding wall61at the rear side, the middle-cover groove section63may be provided at the surrounding wall61at another side. Further, a plurality of middle-cover groove sections63may be provided at the surrounding wall61.

Further, the main body2may be provided with a cooling function. Specifically, an inlet for external air may be provided at one side of the main body2, and a discharging fan may be provided at the side opposing the one side. With this configuration, even if the battery8and the sine-wave adapter9generate heat, temperature increase within the main body2can be suppressed.

In the above-described embodiment, a temperature detecting device having temperature detecting means, which is a thermistor, is applied to the power supply device1. However, the temperature detecting device may be applied to a device other than the power supply device1.