Locking trigger mechanism for a portable power tool

Abstract

A trigger mechanism for a portable electric power tool which can be selectively oriented in one of three states being a Locked-off, an On, and a Locked-on state. The trigger mechanism includes a trigger having a first latch portion and an actuator for actuating a switch for energizing a motor, a lock button having a second latch portion, a latch return spring, and a lock button return spring. The trigger is shiftable longitudinally between a Trigger-off and a Trigger-on position, while the lock button is shiftable transversely between a Button-off and a Button-on position. When the trigger mechanism is in the Locked-off state, the lock button is in the Button-off position preventing the trigger from moving from the Trigger-off position. When the trigger mechanism is in the On state, the lock button has been shifted to the Button-on position so that the trigger is shiftable to the Trigger-on position thereby actuating the switch. When the trigger mechanism is in the Locked-on state, the operator positions the first latch portion so that by releasing the trigger while in the On state the first and second latch portions engage.