Lockout mechanism for power tool

摘要

A switch lockout mechanism for a power tool (20) includes a handle housing (22) for gripping by a power tool operator. The handle housing (22) is generally elongated in a direction corresponding to the gripping axis of a power tool operator. A switch (36) is attached to the housing (22) and is actuable between an "on" position and an "off" position, A locking member (56) is rotatably or pivotally attached to the housing (22). The locking member (56) is rotatable about an axis that generally extends in the same direction as the handle housing (22) in an elongated direction. The locking member (56) has a first rotatable position wherein the switch (36) is locked in its "off" position, and a second rotatable position wherein the switch (36) is actuated to its "on" position. An actuating member (64) allows a tool operator to move the locking member (56) between its first and second positions.