SHOVEL

A shovel includes an undercarriage, an upper swing structure swingably attached to the undercarriage, and an automatic greaser mounted on the upper swing structure. The automatic greaser is configured to individually change the amount of grease fed to a first greasing point among multiple greasing points and the amount of grease fed to a second greasing point among the multiple greasing points based on information on the multiple greasing points.

BACKGROUND

Technical Field

The present invention relates to shovels with an automatic greasing device.

Description of Related Art

A shovel with an automatic greaser has been known. This automatic greaser is configured to feed grease to pin linking members placed between the swing frame of an upper swing structure and a boom, between the boom and an arm, between the arm and a bucket, on each end side of a boom cylinder, on each end side of an arm cylinder, on each end side of a bucket cylinder and so on. FurtheLmore, the automatic greaser is configured to, when any of the load pressure of the boom cylinder, the load pressure of the arm cylinder, and the load pressure of the bucket cylinder exceeds a reference pressure, increase the supply of grease according as the load pressure increases.

SUMMARY

According to an aspect of the present invention, a shovel includes an undercarriage, an upper swing structure swingably attached to the undercarriage, and an automatic greaser mounted on the upper swing structure. The automatic greaser is configured to individually change the amount of grease fed to a first greasing point among multiple greasing points and the amount of grease fed to a second greasing point among the multiple greasing points based on information on the multiple greasing points.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The related-art automatic greaser, however, is configured to, when any of the load pressure of the boom cylinder, the load pressure of the arm cylinder, and the load pressure of the bucket cylinder exceeds a reference pressure, increase the supply of grease to all pin linking members. Therefore, the supply of grease to pin linking members with low friction as well is increased.

Therefore, it is desired to provide a shovel that can feed grease more appropriately.

According to an aspect of the present invention, a shovel that can feed grease more appropriately is provided.

FIG. 1Ais a side view of a shovel according to an embodiment of the present invention. An upper swing structure3is swingably mounted on an undercarriage1of the shovel via a swing mechanism2serving as a work element. A boom4serving as a work element is attached to the upper swing structure3. An arm5serving as a work element is attached to the distal end of the boom4. A bucket6serving as a work element is attached to the distal end of the arm5. The boom4, the arm5, and the bucket6constitute an excavation attachment serving as an example of an attachment, and are hydraulically driven by a boom cylinder7, an arm cylinder8, and a bucket cylinder9, respectively.

A cabin10serving as a cab, an engine11serving as a drive source, an automatic greaser50, etc., are mounted on the upper swing structure3.

The automatic greaser50automatically feeds a lubricant such as grease to multiple greasing points. According to this embodiment, the greasing points include a ring GP1of the swing mechanism2, a boom foot pin GP2, an arm foot pin GP3, an arm top pin GP4, a bottom-side link pin GP5and a rod-side link pin GP6of the boom cylinder7, a bottom-side link pin GP7and a rod-side link pin GP8of the arm cylinder8, a bottom-side link pin GP9and a rod-side link pin GP10of the bucket cylinder9, an arm-side link pin GP11of a first bucket link6A, and a bucket-side link pin GP12of a second bucket link6B. Furthermore, according to this embodiment, as illustrated inFIG. 1B, the greasing points for the rod-side link pin GP10include three points: a right side GP10-LK of the rod-side link pin GP10in the second bucket link6B, a left side GP10-LK of the rod-side link pin GP10in the second bucket link6B, and a center GP10-CY of the rod-side link pin GP10of the bucket cylinder9.FIG. 1Billustrates a structure around the rod-side link pin GP10as viewed from below.

Next, an example configuration of a basic system installed in the shovel ofFIG. 1Ais described with reference toFIG. 2.FIG. 2illustrates an example configuration of the basic system. The basic system is constituted mainly of a controller30, a display device40, the automatic greaser50, etc.

The controller30is a control device that controls various devices installed in the shovel. The controller30is composed of a processing unit including a CPU and an internal memory. The CPU executes programs stored in the internal memory to implement various functions of the controller30.

The display device40displays a screen including various kinds of information in response to a command from the controller30. The display device40is, for example, a liquid crystal display connected to the controller30. The display device40is connected to the controller30via, for example, a communication network such as a CAN, a dedicated line, or the like. According to this embodiment, the display device40includes an image display part41and a switch panel42. The switch panel42is a switch panel including various hardware switches.

The controller30, the display device40, the automatic greaser50, etc., are supplied with electric power from a rechargeable battery70to operate. The rechargeable battery70is charged by a generator11a driven by the engine11. The electric power of the rechargeable battery70is also supplied to electrical equipment72, a starter11bof the engine11, etc. The starter11bis driven with electric power from the rechargeable battery70to start the engine11.

The engine11is connected to a main pump14and a pilot pump15and controlled by an engine control unit (ECU)74. The ECU74transmits various data indicating the condition of the engine11to the controller30. The various data include, for example, data indicating coolant water temperature detected with a water temperature sensor11c. The controller30stores these data in the internal memory and can display the data on the display device40at an appropriate time.

The main pump14supplies hydraulic oil to a control valve17via a hydraulic oil line. According to this embodiment, the main pump14is a swash plate variable displacement hydraulic pump, and the discharge flow rate is controlled by a regulator14a. The regulator14a, for example, increases or decreases the discharge flow rate of the main pump14in response to a command from the controller30. The regulator14atransmits data indicating a swash plate tilt angle to the controller30. A discharge pressure sensor14btransmits data indicating the discharge pressure of the main pump14to the controller30. An oil temperature sensor14cprovided in a conduit between the main pump14and a tank storing hydraulic oil that the main pump14draws in transmits data representing the temperature of hydraulic oil flowing through the conduit to the controller30.

The pilot pump15supplies hydraulic oil to various hydraulic control apparatus via a pilot line. The pilot pump15is, for example, a fixed displacement hydraulic pump.

The control valve17is a hydraulic controller that controls a hydraulic system installed in the shovel. The control valve17selectively supplies hydraulic oil discharged by the main pump14to, for example, a left travel hydraulic motor1L, a right travel hydraulic motor1R, a swing hydraulic motor2A, the boom cylinder7, the arm cylinder8, the bucket cylinder9, and the like (hereinafter collectively referred to as “hydraulic actuators”).

An operating device26is used to operate the hydraulic actuators. According to this embodiment, the operating device26includes a left operating lever26L, a right operating lever26R, and a travel lever26C. When the operating device26is operated, hydraulic oil is supplied from the pilot pump15to a pilot port of a flow control valve for a corresponding hydraulic actuator. Each pilot port is supplied with hydraulic oil of a pressure (pilot pressure) commensurate with the operation details (direction of operation and amount of operation) of the corresponding operating device26.

An operating pressure sensor29detects a pilot pressure when the operating device26is operated, and transmits data indicating the detected pilot pressure to the controller30. The controller30detects the operation details of the operating device26from the pilot pressure detected by the operating pressure sensor29.

Next, functional elements of the controller30are described. The controller30includes a time obtaining part30a, a greasing information obtaining part30b, and a greasing control part30cas functional elements.

The time obtaining part30ais a functional element that obtains an elapsed time between two time points. According to this embodiment, the time obtaining part30acan process a time exceeding 24 hours. The time obtaining part30a, for example, obtains an elapsed time between a first time point and a second time point based on a GPS signal (time information including a week number) received via a GPS receiver at each of the first time point and the second time point. In this case, the time obtaining part30amay derive the number of days elapsed between the first time point and the second time point. The time obtaining part30amay receive signals from another device with at least one of a calendar function, a date managing function, etc., and derive an elapsed time (that may exceed 24 hours) between the first time point and the second time point.

The greasing information obtaining part30bis a functional element that obtains information on multiple greasing points. According to this embodiment, the greasing information obtaining part30bobtains information on multiple greasing points based on the outputs of an information obtaining device73, an engine rotational speed adjustment dial75, etc.

The information on multiple greasing points is at least one of information on the operating condition of multiple greasing points, information on the work environment of multiple greasing points, etc.

The infonuation obtaining device73detects information on the shovel. According to this embodiment, the information obtaining device73includes at least one of angle sensors (a boom angle sensor, an arm angle sensor, and a bucket angle sensor), a body tilt sensor, a swing angular velocity sensor, cylinder pressure sensors (a boom rod pressure sensor, a boom bottom pressure sensor, an arm rod pressure sensor, an arm bottom pressure sensor, a bucket rod pressure sensor, and a bucket bottom pressure sensor), cylinder stroke sensors (a boom cylinder stroke sensor, an arm cylinder stroke sensor, and a bucket cylinder stroke sensor), the discharge pressure sensor14b, and the operating pressure sensor29. The information obtaining device73, for example, obtains, as shovel-related information, at least one of a boom angle, an arm angle, a bucket angle, a body tilt angle, a swing angular velocity, a boom rod pressure, a boom bottom pressure, an arm rod pressure, an arm bottom pressure, a bucket rod pressure, a bucket bottom pressure, a boom stroke amount, an arm stroke amount, a bucket stroke amount, the discharge pressure of the main pump14, and the operating pressure of the operating device26. The angle sensors may be constituted of a combination of an acceleration sensor and a gyroscope.

The information obtaining device73may include at least one of image sensors (for example, a monocular camera, a stereo camera, a thermographic sensor, and a distance image sensor) and distance sensors (for example, a laser range finder, a laser radar, a millimeter wave sensor, and an ultrasonic sensor).

The engine rotational speed adjustment dial75is a dial for adjusting the rotational speed of the engine11, and, for example, can switch the engine rotational speed in a stepwise manner. According to this embodiment, the engine rotational speed adjustment dial75is so configured as to be able to select the engine rotational speed from among the four levels of SP mode, H mode, A mode, and idling mode. The engine rotational speed adjustment dial75transmits data indicating the setting of the engine rotational speed to the controller30.FIG. 2illustrates that the H-mode is selected by the engine rotational speed adjustment dial75.

The SP mode is an engine mode selected when it is desired to prioritize workload, and uses the highest engine rotational speed. The H mode is an engine mode selected when it is desired to balance workload and fuel efficiency, and uses the second highest engine rotational speed. The A mode is an engine mode selected when it is desired to operate the shovel at low noise while prioritizing fuel efficiency, and uses the third highest engine rotational speed. The idling mode is an engine mode selected when it is desired to idle the engine11, and uses the lowest engine rotational speed. The engine11is controlled to a constant rotational speed at the engine rotational speed of the rotational speed mode set by the engine rotational speed adjustment dial75.

The greasing information obtaining part30b, for example, determines the operating condition of multiple greasing points based on the respective movements of the boom4, the arm5, and the bucket6. The respective movements of the boom4, the arm5, and the bucket6are, for example, detected based on the output of at least one of cylinder pressure sensors, operating pressure sensors, angle sensors, and cylinder stroke sensors.

The greasing information obtaining part30b, for example, may determine the work environment of multiple greasing points based on the output of at least one of image sensors and distance sensors. The work environment is, for example, at least one of a work environment where a foreign object (water, mud, dust or the like) is likely to be mixed in a lubricant, a work environment where a lubricant is likely to dry, a work environment where a lubricant is likely to degrade, etc.

The greasing control part30cis a functional element that controls the automatic greaser50. According to this embodiment, the greasing control part30ccontrols at least one of timing to start greasing by the automatic greaser50, timing to end the greasing, etc., based on the outputs of the time obtaining part30a, the greasing information obtaining part30b, etc. The greasing control part30cmay select a greasing point and may change the ratio in which a lubricant is distributed among the greasing points on an as-needed basis. An operator, for example, may check the distribution ratio displayed on the display device40and then change the distribution ratio.

The automatic greaser50is constituted mainly of a grease pump51, a grease tank52, a solenoid valve53, a distributor54, etc.

The grease pump51is an example of a lubricant pump and pumps grease from the grease tank52to the distributor54via the solenoid valve53. According to this embodiment, the grease pump51is an electric plunger pump of a fixed discharge quantity type with a piston and a cylinder. The grease pump51, however, may alternatively be of a variable discharge quantity type. The piston is reciprocated by a cam mechanism driven by an electric motor. The controller30controls the electric motor to control the discharge of grease by the grease pump51. The grease pump51may be a pump of another drive system such as a hydraulic system, a pneumatic system, or the like.

The grease tank52is a container for containing grease. According to this embodiment, the grease tank52is a container that accommodates a grease cartridge urged in a compression direction by a spring. Another container such as a pail may be used.

The solenoid valve53operates in response to a control command from the controller30. According to this embodiment, the solenoid valve53is a spool valve with one inlet port and three outlet ports. The inlet port is connected to the discharge port of the grease pump51. Each of the three outlet ports is connected to the distributor54.

The distributor54is a device that distributes the grease pumped by the grease pump51to the greasing points. According to this embodiment, the distributor54includes a first distributor54-1, a second distributor54-2, and a third distributor54-3.

The controller30switches the valve position of the solenoid valve53so that grease is pumped to at least one of the first distributor54-1, the second distributor54-2, and the third distributor54-3. The solenoid valve53has, for example, a first valve position that causes the inlet port to communicate with a first outlet port, a second valve position that causes the inlet port to communicate with a second outlet port, a third valve position that causes the inlet port to communicate with a third outlet port, and a fourth valve position that closes all the three outlet ports.

FIG. 3illustrates an example configuration of the distributor54. As illustrated inFIG. 3, the distributor54includes the first distributor54-1, the second distributor54-2, and the third distributor54-3.

According to the example ofFIG. 3, the first distributor54-1has one inlet port and seven outlet ports. A check valve is attached to a hose extending from each outlet port. A hose extending from the inlet port is connected to the first outlet port of the solenoid valve53. The hoses extending from the seven outlet ports are connected to discharge ports placed at greasing points associated with the bucket6. The first distributor54-1is configured to discharge the same amount of grease as received at the inlet port from each of the seven outlet ports in sequential order.

The second distributor54-2has one inlet port and three outlet ports. A check valve is attached to a hose extending from each outlet port. A hose extending from the inlet port is connected to the second outlet port of the solenoid valve53. The hoses extending from the three outlet ports are connected to discharge ports placed at greasing points associated with the arm5. The second distributor54-2is configured to discharge the same amount of grease as received at the inlet port from each of the three outlet ports in sequential order.

The third distributor54-3has one inlet port and nine outlet ports. A check valve is attached to a hose extending from each outlet port. A hose extending from the inlet port is connected to the third outlet port of the solenoid valve53. The hoses extending from the nine outlet ports are connected to discharge ports placed at greasing points associated with the swing mechanism2and the boom4. The third distributor54-3is configured to discharge the same amount of grease as received at the inlet port from each of the nine outlet ports in sequential order.

According to this configuration, the distributor54ofFIG. 3can feed grease to up to19greasing points. InFIG. 3, #1, #2. . . #19denote19greasing points. At least two of the19greasing points may be the same greasing point.

Table 1 illustrates an example of the correspondence relationship between greasing numbers and greasing points. According to this embodiment, as described above, greasing numbers #1through #7associated with the first distributor54-1are correlated with the discharge ports placed at the greasing points associated with the bucket6, greasing numbers #8through #10associated with the second distributor54-2are correlated with the discharge ports placed at the greasing points associated with the arm5, and greasing numbers #11through #19associated with the third distributor54-3are correlated with the discharge ports placed at the greasing points associated with the swing mechanism2and the boom4. The number of greasing points associated with the bucket-side link pin GP12corresponding to greasing number #1is one for standard shovels, but is two for crane shovels.

TABLE 1GreasingNumberGreasing Point#1BUCKET-SIDE LINK PIN GP12 OF SECOND BUCKETLINK 6B#2ARM-SIDE LINK PIN GP11 OF FIRST BUCKET LINK 6A#3RIGHT SIDE GP10-LK OF ROD-SIDE LINK PIN GP10 OFSECOND BUCKET LINK 6B#4LEFT SIDE GP10-LK OF ROD-SIDE LINK PIN GP10 OFSECOND BUCKET LINK 6B#5BOTTOM-SIDE LINK PIN GP9 OF BUCKET CYLINDER 9#6CENTER GP10-CY OF ROD-SIDE LINK PIN GP10 OFBUCKET CYLINDER 9#7ARM TOP PIN GP4#8ARM FOOT PIN GP3#9BOTTOM-SIDE LINK PIN GP7 OF ARM CYLINDER 8#10ROD-SIDE LINK PIN GP8 OF ARM CYLINDER 8#11RIGHT SIDE OF BOOM FOOT PIN GP2#12LEFT SIDE OF BOOM FOOT PIN GP2#13RIGHT SIDE OF BOTTOM-SIDE LINK PIN GP5 OFBOOM CYLINDER 7#14LEFT SIDE OF BOTTOM-SIDE LINK PIN GP5 OF BOOMCYLINDER 7#15RIGHT SIDE OF ROD-SIDE LINK PIN GP6 OF BOOMCYLINDER 7#16LEFT SIDE OF ROD-SIDE LINK PIN GP6 OF BOOMCYLINDER 7#17FRONT SIDE OF RING GP1 OF SWING MECHANISM 2#18REAR SIDE OF RING GP1 OF SWING MECHANISM 2#19PINION GEAR OF SWING HYDRAULIC MOTOR 2A

Next, a process of the greasing control part30cstarting or stopping greasing by the automatic greaser50(hereinafter “greasing process”) is described with reference toFIG. 4.FIG. 4is a flowchart of the greasing process. The greasing control part30c, for example, repeatedly executes this greasing process at predetermined control intervals while the controller30is being activated.

When the greasing process is started with the activation of the controller30, first, the greasing control part30cdetermines whether greasing is in progress (step ST1). According to this embodiment, the greasing control part30crefers to the value of a greasing flag stored in the internal memory, and determines whether greasing is in progress. The greasing control part30c, for example, sets the value of the greasing flag to “1” (a value indicating that “greasing is in progress”) when outputting a greasing start command to the automatic greaser50, and sets the value of the greasing flag to “0” (a value indicating that “greasing is not in progress”) when outputting a greasing stop command to the automatic greaser50. The greasing control part30cmay receive the output signal of the automatic greaser50to determine whether greasing is in progress.

In response to determining that greasing is not in progress (NO at step ST1), the greasing control part30cdetermines whether a non-greasing time has reached a first set time (step ST2). The “non-greasing time” means the duration of non-greasing state in which no greasing is performed by the automatic greaser50. For example, the greasing control part30cstarts measuring the non-greasing time when outputting a greasing stop command to the automatic greaser50. The greasing control part30cmonitors the duration of the non-greasing state based on the time elapsed since the output of the greasing stop command obtained by the time obtaining part30a. The first set time serving as settings information is a target time for continuing the non-greasing state, and is, for example, 30 minutes. Hereinafter, the first set time is also referred to as greasing interval.

In response to determining that the non-greasing time has reached the first set time (YES at step ST2), the greasing control part30cstarts greasing by the automatic greaser50(step ST3). The greasing control part30c, for example, outputs a greasing start command to the automatic greaser50. Specifically, the greasing control part30coutputs a drive start command to the grease pump51, and outputs a valve control command to the solenoid valve53. The valve control command to the solenoid valve53is, for example, a command for implementing a desired valve position. In this case, the greasing start command means a combination of the drive start command and the valve control command.

In response to determining that the non-greasing time has not reached the first set time (NO at step ST2), the greasing control part30cends the greasing process of this time without starting greasing by the automatic greaser50.

In response to determining at step ST1that greasing is in progress (YES at step ST1), the greasing control part30cdetermines whether a greasing time has reached a second set time (step ST4). The “greasing time” means the duration of greasing state in which greasing is performed by the automatic greaser50. The greasing control part30c, for example, starts measuring the greasing time when outputting a greasing start command to the automatic greaser50. The greasing control part30cmonitors the duration of the greasing state based on the time elapsed since the output of the greasing start command obtained by the time obtaining part30a. The second set time serving as settings information is a target time for continuing the greasing state, and is, for example,5minutes (300 seconds).

According to this embodiment, the greasing control part30ccontrols the automatic greaser50such that grease is pumped from the grease pump51to the first distributor54-1for 50% of the second set time, grease is pumped from the grease pump51to the second distributor54-2for 20% of the second set time, and grease is pumped from the grease pump51to the third distributor54-3for 30% of the second set time. Hereinafter, the distribution ratio achieved by this control is represented as “distribution ratio 50:20:30.” Specifically, of the second set time (300 seconds), 50% (150 seconds) is allotted for feeding grease to the first distributor54-1, 20% (60 seconds) is allotted for feeding grease to the second distributor54-2, and 30% (90 seconds) is allotted for feeding grease to the third distributor54-3. The feeding of grease to the first distributor54-1is typically performed for 150 consecutive seconds, but may also be performed in three separate times each for 50 seconds, for example. That is, the time of feeding grease to the first distributor54-1is satisfactory as long as it is 150 seconds in total. The same is the case with the time of feeding grease to the second distributor54-2and the third distributor54-3.

In response to determining that the greasing time has reached the second set time (YES at step ST4), the greasing control part30cstops greasing by the automatic greaser50(step ST5). The greasing control part30c, for example, outputs a greasing stop command to the automatic greaser50. Specifically, the greasing control part30coutputs a drive stop command to the grease pump51, and outputs a valve control command to the solenoid valve53. The valve control command to the solenoid valve53is, for example, a command for implementing the fourth valve position that closes all the outlet ports. In this case, the greasing stop command means a combination of the drive stop command and the valve control command.

In response to determining that the greasing time has not reached the second set time (NO at step ST4), the greasing control part30cends the greasing process of this time without stopping greasing by the automatic greaser50.

According to the above-described configuration, the greasing control part30ccan alternately achieve the non-greasing state that continues for the first set time and the greasing state that continues for the second set time. That is, when the elapsed time since ending greasing reaches a predetermined time, the next greasing is started. This elapsed time basically does not include an elapsed time during which the engine11is stopped. The elapsed time, however, may include an elapsed time during which the engine11is stopped.

Next, an example of a process of the greasing control part30cchanging the ratio in which grease is distributed among greasing points (hereinafter “distribution ratio changing process”) is described with reference toFIG. 5.FIG. 5is a flowchart of an example of the distribution ratio changing process. The greasing control part30c, for example, executes this distribution ratio changing process when starting greasing by the automatic greaser50.

First, the greasing control part30cof the controller30determines whether the work load of a particular part is high (step ST11). The particular part is, for example, at least one of a boom-related part, an arm-related part, a bucket-related part, a swing mechanism-related part, etc. The work load is an example of operating condition information, and according to this embodiment, is expressed as being high or not high. According to this embodiment, the bucket-related part is a part related to the greasing points greased through the first distributor54-1. The arm-related part is a part related to the greasing points greased through the second distributor54-2. The boom-related part and the swing mechanism-related part are parts related to the greasing points greased through the third distributor54-3.

According to this embodiment, the greasing control part30cdetermines whether the work load of a particular part is high, referring to the value of a high load flag stored in the internal memory. The high load flag may include multiple high load flags corresponding to the individual particular parts, such as a boom high load flag, an arm high load flag, a bucket high load flag, and a swing high load flag or may be a single high load flag representing whether the work load of any of the particular parts is high.

In response to determining that the work load of a particular part is high, the controller30sets the value of the high load flag to “1.” Specifically, the controller30, for example, determines whether the work load of a particular part is high during the latest non-greasing time based on the output of the information obtaining device73. For example, the greasing control part30cdetermines that the work load of the boom-related part is high and sets the value of the boom high load flag to “1” in response to determining that the total operation time of a boom operating lever during the non-greasing time is more than or equal to a predetermined value based on the output of the operating pressure sensor29.

The controller30, for example, may also determine that the work load of the boom-related part is high and set the value of the boom high load flag to “1” in response to determining that the total amount of movement of the boom4during the non-greasing time is more than or equal to a predetermined value based on the output of the boom angle sensor. The total amount of movement of the boom4is, for example, the sum of the total amount of upward movement and the total amount of downward movement, and may be expressed as a rotation angle.

The controller30, for example, may also determine that the work load of the boom-related part is high and set the value of the boom high load flag to “1” in response to determining that the total amount of extension and retraction (the sum of the total amount of extension and the total amount of retraction) of the boom cylinder7during the non-greasing time is more than or equal to a predetermined value based on the output of the boom cylinder stroke sensor.

The controller30, for example, may also determine that the work load of the boom-related part is high and set the value of the boom high load flag to “1” in response to determining that the cumulative value of a pin surface pressure acting on the boom foot pin during the non-greasing time is more than or equal to a predetermined value based on the output of the boom bottom pressure sensor.

The controller30, for example, may also determine that the work load of the boom-related part is high and set the value of the boom high load flag to “1” in response to determining that the cumulative value of a PV value related to the boom foot pin during the non-greasing time is more than or equal to a predetermined value based on the outputs of the boom angle sensor and the boom bottom pressure sensor. The PV value is expressed as a product of a pin surface pressure acting on the boom foot pin and the total amount of movement of the boom4.

The controller30, for example, may also determine that the work load of the bucket-related part is high and set the value of the bucket high load flag to “1” in response to determining that the work environment is likely to allow mixture of a foreign object (such as water, mud or dust) into the bucket-related part based on an image of a target of work (such as the ground) output by an image sensor attached to the upper swing structure3.

The controller30, for example, may also determine that the work load of the boom-related part is high and set the value of the boom high load flag to “1” in response to determining that the temperature of the boom foot pin is more than or equal to a predetermined value based on a thermal image output by a thermographic sensor attached to the upper swing structure3.

The controller30, for example, may also determine that the work load of the bucket-related part is high and set the value of the bucket high load flag to “1” in response to determining that the bucket6is roughly operated, for example, the bucket6is slammed on the ground, that is, in response to determining that the bucket6is roughly handled, during the non-greasing time, based on the output of an acceleration sensor attached to the bucket6.

In response to dete mining that the work load of a particular part is high (YES at step ST11), the greasing control part30cof the controller30changes the ratio in which grease is distributed among greasing points.

For example, the greasing control part30cchanges the ratio in which grease is distributed among greasing points if the value of any of the high load flags is “1.” The greasing control part30cchanges the ratio in which grease is distributed among greasing points by changing grease distribution time for each of the three distributors54without changing the first set time that is a target time for continuing non-greasing state and the second set time that is a target time for continuing greasing state.

For example, in response to determining that the work load of the bucket-related part is high, the greasing control part30cchanges the initial distribution ratio 50:20:30 to the distribution ratio 75:5:20. That is, the greasing control part30cchanges the setting in which grease is pumped from the grease pump51to the first distributor54-1for 50% of the second set time to the setting in which grease is pumped from the grease pump51to the first distributor54-1for 75% of the second set time. Meanwhile, the greasing control part30cchanges the setting in which grease is pumped from the grease pump51to the second distributor54-2for 20% of the second set time to the setting in which grease is pumped from the grease pump51to the second distributor54-2for 5% of the second set time. Furthermore, the greasing control part30cchanges the setting in which grease is pumped from the grease pump51to the third distributor54-3for 30% of the second set time to the setting in which grease is pumped from the grease pump51to the third distributor54-3for 20% of the second set time.

Specifically, the setting in which, of the second set time (300 seconds), 150 seconds are allotted for feeding grease to the first distributor54-1, 60 seconds are allotted for feeding grease to the second distributor54-2, and 90 seconds are allotted for feeding grease to the third distributor54-3is changed to the setting in which, of the second set time (300 seconds), 225 seconds are allotted for feeding grease to the first distributor54-1, 15 seconds are allotted for feeding grease to the second distributor54-2, and 60 seconds are allotted for feeding grease to the third distributor54-3.

The greasing control part30c, however, may increase or decrease at least one of the first set time and the second set time and then change the ratio in which grease is distributed among greasing points. In this case, the greasing control part30cmay increase or decrease the amount of distribution while maintaining the distribution ratio.

Furthermore, the greasing control part30cmay determine the changed distribution ratio according to the total operation time of each particular part, the total amount of movement of each work element, the total amount of extension and retraction of each hydraulic cylinder, the cumulative value of the pin surface pressure or PV value of each pin, the work environment of each particular part, the temperature of each pin, how each work element is handled, or the like.

The greasing control part30cmay also determine the changed distribution ratio based on the current work mode of the shovel. According to this embodiment, the work mode includes a normal mode (excavation mode) and a crane mode, and is switched using a switch installed in the cabin10. The work mode may also include at least one of a lifting magnet mode and a harvester mode (forestry mode).

Next, a change in the ratio in which grease is distributed among greasing points is described with reference toFIG. 6. InFIG. 6, (A) illustrates a temporal transition of greasing state and non-greasing state. On the vertical axis, “ON” represents greasing state and “OFF” represents non-greasing state. The horizontal axis represents the passage of time. InFIG. 6, (B) illustrates a temporal transition of high-load state (where a work load is high) and non-high-load state (where a work load is not high) with respect to each of the boom-related part, the arm-related part, and the bucket-related part. On the vertical axis, “ON” represents high-load state and “OFF” represents “non-high-load state.” The horizontal axis represents the passage of time and corresponds to the horizontal axis of (A) ofFIG. 6.

InFIG. 6, (A) illustrates that the non-greasing state that continues for a first set time T1and the greasing state that continues for a second set time T2are alternately repeated. Furthermore, (A) ofFIG. 6also illustrates that the second set time T2includes a period R1during which greasing is performed via the first distributor54-1, a period R2during which greasing is performed via the second distributor54-2, and a period R3during which greasing is performed via the third distributor54-3. Based on these, (A) ofFIG. 6illustrates that the ratio in which grease is distributed among greasing points changes when it is determined that the work load of a particular part is high.

Specifically, when the non-greasing time reaches the first set time T1at time t1, the greasing control part30cstarts greasing over the second set time T2. At this point, the greasing control part30cexecutes the distribution ratio changing process.

According to this embodiment, the greasing control part30crefers to the value of a high load flag stored in the internal memory. In response to determining that none of the boom-related part, the arm-related part, and the bucket-related part is in high-load state during the latest non-greasing state over the first set time T1, the greasing control part30csets the ratio in which grease is distributed among greasing points to initial state (the distribution ratio 50:20:30).

In this case, the greasing control part30cperforms greasing via the first distributor54-1during the period R1corresponding to 50% of the second set time T2, performs greasing via the second distributor54-2during the period R2corresponding to 20% of the second set time T2, and performs greasing via the third distributor54-3during the period R3corresponding to 30% of the second set time T2.

Thereafter, when the greasing time reaches the second set time T2at time t2, the greasing control part30cstops greasing.

Thereafter, at time t3, the controller30determines that the work load of the bucket-related part is high. For example, the controller30determines that the work load of the bucket-related part is high in response to determining that the total operation time of a bucket operating lever during the non-greasing time that has started at time t2is more than or equal to a predetermined value.

Specifically, the controller30, for example, sets the value of the bucket high load flag to “1” in response to determining that the work load of the bucket-related part is high. The same is the case with other parts such as the boom-related part and the arm-related part.

Thereafter, when the non-greasing time reaches the first set time T1at time t4, the greasing control part30cresumes greasing. At this point, the greasing control part30cexecutes the distribution ratio changing process.

At this point, the greasing control part30crefers to the value of the bucket high load flag, and in response to determining that the bucket-related part is in high-load state during the latest non-greasing state over the first set time T1, changes the ratio in which grease is distributed among greasing points to 75:5:20. Furtheurtore, the greasing control part30cresets the value of the bucket high load flag to “0” when starting greasing.

In this case, the greasing control part30cperforms greasing via the first distributor54-1during a period corresponding to 75% of the second set time T2, performs greasing via the second distributor54-2during a period corresponding to 5% of the second set time T2, and performs greasing via the third distributor54-3during a period corresponding to 20% of the second set time T2.

Thereafter, when the greasing time reaches the second set time T2at time t5, the greasing control part30cstops greasing.

Thereafter, at time t6, the controller30determines that the work load of the arm-related part is high. For example, the controller30determines that the work load of the arm-related part is high in response to determining that the total amount of movement of the arm5during the non-greasing time that has started at time t5is more than or equal to a predetermined value.

Specifically, the controller30, for example, sets the value of the arm high load flag to “1” in response to determining that the work load of the arm-related part is high.

Thereafter, when the non-greasing time reaches the first set time T1at time t7, the greasing control part30cresumes greasing. At this point, the greasing control part30cexecutes the distribution ratio changing process.

At this point, the greasing control part30crefers to the value of the arm high load flag, and in response to determining that the arm-related part is in high-load state during the latest non-greasing state over the first set time T1, the greasing control part30cchanges the ratio in which grease is distributed among greasing points to 35:45:20. Furthermore, the greasing control part30cresets the value of the arm high load flag to “0” when starting greasing.

In this case, the greasing control part30cperforms greasing via the first distributor54-1during a period corresponding to 35% of the second set time T2, performs greasing via the second distributor54-2during a period corresponding to 45% of the second set time T2, and performs greasing via the third distributor54-3during a period corresponding to 20% of the second set time T2.

Thereafter, when the greasing time reaches the second set time T2at time t8, the greasing control part30cstops greasing.

Thereafter, when the non-greasing time reaches the first set time T1at time t9, the greasing control part30cresumes greasing. At this point, the greasing control part30cexecutes the distribution ratio changing process.

Specifically, the greasing control part30crefers to the value of the high load flag, and in response to determining that none of the boom-related part, the airti-related part, and the bucket-related part is in high-load state during the latest non-greasing state over the first set time T2, the greasing control part30csets the ratio in which grease is distributed among greasing points to initial state (the distribution ratio 50:20:30).

In this case, the greasing control part30cperforms greasing via the first distributor54-1during a period corresponding to 50% of the second set time T2, performs greasing via the second distributor54-2during a period corresponding to 20% of the second set time T2, and performs greasing via the third distributor54-3during a period corresponding to 30% of the second set time T2.

Thereafter, when the greasing time reaches the second set time T2at time t10, the greasing control part30cstops greasing.

Next, another example of the distribution ratio changing process is described with reference toFIG. 7.FIG. 7is a flowchart of another example of the distribution ratio changing process. The greasing control part30c, for example, executes this distribution ratio changing process when starting greasing by the automatic greaser50.

First, the controller30determines whether the operation frequency of a particular part is high (step ST21). The operation frequency is an example of operating condition information, and according to this embodiment, is expressed as being high or not high.

According to this embodiment, the greasing control part30cdetermines whether the operation frequency of a particular part is high, referring to the value of a high frequency flag stored in the internal memory. The high frequency flag may include multiple high frequency flags corresponding to the individual particular parts, such as a boom high frequency flag, an arm high frequency flag, a bucket high frequency flag, and a swing high frequency flag or may be a single high frequency flag representing whether the operation frequency of any of the particular parts is high.

The controller30, for example, counts the number of times a hydraulic actuator operates based on the output of the operating pressure sensor29. Specifically, the controller30counts the number of times of operation of each of the swing hydraulic motor2A, the boom cylinder7, the arm cylinder8, and the bucket cylinder9individually. The controller30, for example, determines that the operation frequency of the boom-related part is high when the number of times of operation of the boom cylinder7is more than or equal to a predetermined value. The same is the case with other particular parts. In response to determining that the operation frequency of a particular part is high, the controller30sets the value of the high frequency flag to “1.”

In response to determining that the operation frequency of a particular part is high (YES at step ST21), the greasing control part30cchanges the ratio in which grease is distributed among greasing points (step ST22).

For example, the greasing control part30cchanges the ratio in which grease is distributed among greasing points if the value of any of the high frequency flags is “1.” The greasing control part30cchanges the ratio in which grease is distributed among greasing points by changing grease distribution time for each of the three distributors54without changing the first set time that is a target time for continuing non-greasing state and the second set time that is a target time for continuing greasing state.

For example, in response to determining that the operation frequency of the bucket-related part is high, the greasing control part30cchanges the initial distribution ratio 50:20:30 to the distribution ratio 75:5:20.

The greasing control part30c, however, may increase or decrease at least one of the first set time and the second set time and then change the ratio in which grease is distributed among greasing points. In this case, the greasing control part30cmay increase or decrease the amount of distribution while maintaining the distribution ratio.

Next, a change in the ratio in which grease is distributed among greasing points is described with reference toFIG. 8. InFIG. 8, (A) illustrates a temporal transition of greasing state and non-greasing state. On the vertical axis, “ON” represents greasing state and “OFF” represents non-greasing state. The horizontal axis represents the passage of time. InFIG. 8, (B) illustrates a temporal transition of high-frequency state (where operation frequency is high) and non-high-frequency state (where operation frequency is not high) with respect to each of the boom-related part, the arm-related part, and the bucket-related part. On the vertical axis, “ON” represents high-frequency state and “OFF” represents “non-high-frequency state.” The horizontal axis represents the passage of time and corresponds to the horizontal axis of (A) ofFIG. 8.

InFIG. 8, (A) illustrates that the non-greasing state that continues for a first set time T1and the greasing state that continues for a second set time T2are alternately repeated. Furthermore, (A) ofFIG. 8also illustrates that the second set time T2includes the period R1during which greasing is performed via the first distributor54-1, the period R2during which greasing is performed via the second distributor54-2, and the period R3during which greasing is performed via the third distributor54-3. Based on these, (A) ofFIG. 8illustrates that the ratio in which grease is distributed among greasing points changes when it is determined that the operation frequency of a particular part is high.

When the non-greasing time reaches the first set time T1at time t1, the greasing control part30cstarts greasing over the second set time T2. At this point, the greasing control part30cexecutes the distribution ratio changing process ofFIG. 7.

According to this embodiment, the greasing control part30crefers to the value of a high load flag stored in the internal memory, and in response to determining that none of the boom-related part, the aim-related part, and the bucket-related part is in high-frequency state during the latest non-greasing state over the first set time T1, sets the ratio in which grease is distributed among greasing points to initial state (the distribution ratio 50:20:30).

In this case, the greasing control part30cperforms greasing via the first distributor54-1during the period R1corresponding to 50% of the second set time T2, performs greasing via the second distributor54-2during the period R2corresponding to 20% of the second set time T2, and performs greasing via the third distributor54-3during the period R3corresponding to 30% of the second set time T2.

Thereafter, when the greasing time reaches the second set time T2at time t2, the greasing control part30cstops greasing.

Thereafter, at time t3, the controller30determines that the operation frequency of the bucket-related part is high. For example, the controller30determines that the operation frequency of the bucket-related part is high in response to determining that the number of times of operation of the bucket cylinder9during the non-greasing time that has started at time t2is more than or equal to a predetermined value.

Specifically, the controller30, for example, sets the value of the bucket high frequency flag to “1” in response to detenuining that the operation frequency of the bucket-related part is high. The same is the case with other parts such as the boom-related part and the aim-related part.

Thereafter, when the non-greasing time reaches the first set time T1at time t4, the greasing control part30cresumes greasing. At this point, the greasing control part30cexecutes the distribution ratio changing process ofFIG. 7.

Specifically, the greasing control part30crefers to the value of the bucket high frequency flag, and in response to determining that the bucket-related part is in high-frequency state during the latest non-greasing state over the first set time T1, extends the second set time T2to a second set time T2A and changes the ratio in which grease is distributed among greasing points to 75:5:20. Furthermore, the greasing control part30cresets the value of the bucket high frequency flag to “0” when starting greasing.

In this case, the greasing control part30cperforms greasing via the first distributor54-1during a period corresponding to 75% of the second set time T2A, performs greasing via the second distributor54-2during a period corresponding to 5% of the second set time T2A, and performs greasing via the third distributor54-3during a period corresponding to 20% of the second set time T2A.

Thereafter, when the greasing time reaches the second set time T2A at time t5, the greasing control part30cstops greasing.

Thereafter, at time t6, the controller30determines that the operation frequency of the boom-related part is high. For example, the controller30determines that the operation frequency of the boom-related part is high in response to determining that the number of times of operation of the boom cylinder7during the non-greasing time that has started at time t5is more than or equal to a predetermined value.

Specifically, the controller30, for example, sets the value of the boom high frequency flag to “1” in response to determining that the operation frequency of the boom-related part is high.

Thereafter, when the non-greasing time reaches the first set time T1at time t7, the greasing control part30cresumes greasing. At this point, the greasing control part30cexecutes the distribution ratio changing process ofFIG. 7.

Specifically, the greasing control part30crefers to the value of the boom high frequency flag, and in response to determining that the boom-related part is in high-frequency state during the latest non-greasing state over the first set time T1, the greasing control part30cshortens the second set time T2to a second set time T2B (<T2) and changes the ratio in which grease is distributed among greasing points to 25:25:50. Furthermore, the greasing control part30cresets the value of the boom high frequency flag to “0” when starting greasing.

In this case, the greasing control part30cperforms greasing via the first distributor54-1during a period corresponding to 25% of the second set time T2B, performs greasing via the second distributor54-2during a period corresponding to 25% of the second set time T2B, and performs greasing via the third distributor54-3during a period corresponding to 50% of the second set time T2B.

Thereafter, when the greasing time reaches the second set time T2B at time t8, the greasing control part30cstops greasing.

Thereafter, when the non-greasing time reaches the first set time T1at time t9, the greasing control part30cresumes greasing. At this point, the greasing control part30cexecutes the distribution ratio changing process ofFIG. 7.

Specifically, the greasing control part30crefers to the value of the high frequency flag, and in response to determining that none of the boom-related part, the arm-related part, and the bucket-related part is in high-frequency state during the latest non-greasing state over the first set time T1, the greasing control part30cchanges the second set time T2B back to the initially set second set time T2and sets the ratio in which grease is distributed among greasing points to initial state (the distribution ratio 50:20:30).

In this case, the greasing control part30cperforms greasing via the first distributor54-1during a period corresponding to 50% of the second set time T2, performs greasing via the second distributor54-2during a period corresponding to 20% of the second set time T2, and performs greasing via the third distributor54-3during a period corresponding to 30% of the second set time T2.

Thereafter, when the greasing time reaches the second set time T2at time t10, the greasing control part30cstops greasing.

Thus, the automatic greaser50is configured to be able to individually change the amount of grease fed to one greasing point and the amount of grease fed to another greasing point based on information on multiple greasing points. Therefore, a shovel according to an embodiment of the present invention can more appropriately feed grease to each of multiple greasing points.

Next, another example configuration of the distributor54is described with reference toFIG. 9. The distributor54ofFIG. 9is different in including four distributors from, but otherwise equal to, the distributor54ofFIG. 3, which includes three distributors. Therefore, a description of a common portion is omitted, and differences are described in detail.

According to the example ofFIG. 9, the first distributor54-1includes one inlet port and three outlet ports. A check valve is attached to a hose extending from each outlet port. A hose extending from the inlet port is connected to the first outlet port of the solenoid valve53. The hoses extending from the three outlet ports are connected to discharge ports placed at greasing points that are under the harshest lubrication condition in excavation work. The first distributor54-1is configured to discharge the same amount of grease as received at the inlet port from each of the three outlet ports in sequential order.

The second distributor54-2has one inlet port and six outlet ports. A check valve is attached to a hose extending from each outlet port. A hose extending from the inlet port is connected to the second outlet port of the solenoid valve53. The hoses extending from the six outlet ports are connected to discharge ports placed at greasing points that are under the second harshest lubrication condition in excavation work. The second distributor54-2is configured to discharge the same amount of grease as received at the inlet port from each of the six outlet ports in sequential order.

The third distributor54-3has one inlet port and five outlet ports. A check valve is attached to a hose extending from each outlet port. A hose extending from the inlet port is connected to the third outlet port of the solenoid valve53. The hoses extending from the five outlet ports are connected to discharge ports placed at greasing points that are under the third harshest lubrication condition in excavation work. The third distributor54-3is configured to discharge the same amount of grease as received at the inlet port from each of the five outlet ports in sequential order.

A fourth distributor54-4has one inlet port and five outlet ports. A check valve is attached to a hose extending from each outlet port. A hose extending from the inlet port is connected to a fourth outlet port of the solenoid valve53. The hoses extending from the five outlet ports are connected to discharge ports placed at greasing points that are under the fourth harshest lubrication condition in excavation work. The fourth distributor54-4is configured to discharge the same amount of grease as received at the inlet port from each of the five outlet ports in sequential order.

According to this configuration, the distributor54ofFIG. 9can feed grease to up to 19 greasing points. InFIG. 9, #1, #2. . . #19denote19greasing points. At least two of the19greasing points may be the same greasing point.

Table 2 illustrates another example of the correspondence relationship between greasing numbers and greasing points. According to this embodiment, as described above, greasing numbers #1through #4associated with the first distributor54-1are correlated with the discharge ports placed at the greasing points under the harshest lubrication condition in excavation work, and greasing numbers #5through #9associated with the second distributor54-2are correlated with the discharge ports placed at the greasing points under the second harshest lubrication condition in excavation work. Furthermore, greasing numbers #10through414associated with the third distributor54-3are correlated with the discharge ports placed at the greasing points under the third harshest lubrication condition in excavation work, and greasing numbers #15through419associated with the fourth distributor54-4are correlated with the discharge ports placed at the greasing points under the fourth harshest lubrication condition in excavation work.

TABLE 2GreasingNumberGreasing Point#1ARM-SIDE LINK PIN GP11 OF FIRST BUCKET LINK 6A#2ARM TOP PIN GP4#3ARM FOOT PIN GP3#4ROD-SIDE LINK PIN GPS OF ARM CYLINDER 8#5RIGHT SIDE GP10-LK OF ROD-SIDE LINK PIN GP10 OFSECOND BUCKET LINK 6B#6LEFT SIDE GP10-LK OF ROD-SIDE LINK PIN GP10 OFSECOND BUCKET LINK 6B#7BUCKET-SIDE LINK PIN GP12 OF SECOND BUCKETLINK 6B#8RIGHT SIDE OF BOOM FOOT PIN GP2#9LEFT SIDE OF BOOM FOOT PIN GP2#10CENTER GP10-CY OF ROD-SIDE LINK PIN GP10 OFBUCKET CYLINDER 9#11RIGHT SIDE OF BOTTOM-SIDE LINK PIN GP5 OFBOOM CYLINDER 7#12LEET SIDE OF BOTTOM-SIDE LINK PIN GP5 OF BOOMCYLINDER 7#13RIGHT SIDE OF ROD-SIDE LINK PIN GP6 OF BOOMCYLINDER 7#14LEFT SIDE OF ROD-SIDE LINK PIN GP6 OF BOOMCYLINDER 7#15BOTTOM-SIDE LINK PIN GP9 OF BUCKET CYLINDER 9#16BOTTOM-SIDE LINK PIN GP7 OF ARM CYLINDER 8#17FRONT SIDE OF RING GP1 OF SWING MECHANISM 2#18REAR SIDE OF RING GP1 OF SWING MECHANISM 2#19PINION GEAR OF SWING HYDRAULIC MOTOR 2A

As described above, a shovel according to an embodiment of the present invention includes the undercarriage1, the upper swing structure3swingably attached to the undercarriage1, and the automatic greaser50mounted on the upper swing structure3. The automatic greaser50is configured to be able to individually change the amount of grease fed to one greasing point and the amount of grease fed to another greasing point based on information on the greasing points GP1through GP12

According to this configuration, the shovel according to an embodiment of the present invention can more appropriately feed a lubricant to multiple greasing points. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a work element from moving with too much lubricant, with insufficient lubricant, with degraded lubricant, or with lubricant in which a foreign object is mixed at a high rate. As a result, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of lubricant leakage (sprinkling), poor lubrication, etc.

Furthermore, the shovel according to an embodiment of the present invention desirably includes the controller30serving as a control device to control the automatic greaser50. The automatic greaser50desirably includes the grease pump51serving as a lubricant pump, the distributor54that distributes grease discharged by the grease pump51, and the solenoid valve53serving as a selector valve placed between the grease pump51and the distributors54. The controller30is desirably configured to be able to individually change the amount of grease fed to one greasing point and the amount of grease fed to another greasing point by controlling the solenoid valve53based on the infoLmation on the greasing points GP1through GP12.

The infoLmation on the greasing points GP1through GP12may be, for example, infoLmation on the operating condition of the greasing points GP1through GP12or information on the work environment of the greasing points GP1through GP12.

The information on the operating condition of the greasing points GP1through GP12is, for example, at least one of the total operation time of each particular part, the total amount of movement of each work element, the total amount of extension and retraction of each hydraulic cylinder, the cumulative value of the pin surface pressure or PV value of each pin, the temperature of each pin, how each work element is handled, etc. These information items are, for example, obtained using the information obtaining device73including the operating pressure sensor29, angle sensors, and cylinder pressure sensors.

The information on the work environment of the greasing points GP1through GP12includes, for example, information on the work environment of each particular part. Specifically, the information on the work environment of the greasing points GP1through GP12includes at least one of whether a particular greasing point is under water, whether the ambient temperature of a particular greasing point is high, etc. These information items are, for example, obtained using the information obtaining device73including an image sensor and a distance sensor.

The greasing points GP1through GP12may be grouped by work element as illustrated in Table 1, for example, or may be grouped based on the harshness of a lubrication condition as illustrated in Table 2, for example. The automatic greaser50is desirably configured to be able to individually change the amount of grease fed to one group and the amount of grease fed to another group.

According to this configuration, the shovel according to an embodiment of the present invention can obtain the information on the greasing points GP1through GP12at an appropriate time. For example, as illustrated in Table 1, it is possible to individually adjust the amount of grease fed to the greasing points associated with the bucket6, the amount of grease fed to the greasing points associated with the arm5, and the amount of grease fed to the greasing points associated with the swing mechanism2and the boom4. Also, as illustrated in Table 2, it is possible to individually adjust the amount of grease fed to greasing points under a harsh lubrication condition and the amount of grease fed to greasing points under a less harsh lubrication condition.

A preferred embodiment of the present invention is described in detail above. The present invention, however, is not limited to the above-described embodiment. Various variations, substitutions, etc., may be applied to the above-described embodiment without departing from the scope of the present invention. Furthermore, the features described with reference to the above-described embodiment may be suitably combined as long as no technical contradiction is caused.

For example, the greasing control part30cmay be configured as a device separate from and independent of the controller30.

Furthermore, according to the above-described embodiment, the solenoid valve53is connected to discharge ports placed at multiple greasing points via the distributors54. The solenoid valve53, however, may alternatively be directly connected to discharge ports placed at multiple greasing points without the intervention of the distributor54. For example, the solenoid valve53may be directly connected to each of the19greasing points.

Furthermore, inforivation obtained by the shovel100may be shared with a manager, operators of other shovels, etc., through a shovel management system SYS as illustrated inFIG. 10.FIG. 10is a schematic diagram illustrating an example configuration of the shovel management system SYS. The management system SYS is a system that manages a shovel100. According to this embodiment, the management system SYS is constituted mainly of the shovel100, an assist device200, and a management apparatus300. The shovel100, the assist device200, and the management apparatus300each include a communications device, and are directly or indirectly interconnected via a cellular phone network, a satellite communications network, a short-range radio communications network or the like. Each of the shovel100, the assist device200, and the management apparatus300constituting the management system SYS may be one or more in number. According to the example ofFIG. 10, the management system SYS includes the single shovel100, the single assist device200, and the single management apparatus300.

The assist device200is typically a portable terminal device, and is, for example, a computer such as a notebook PC, a tablet PC, or a smartphone carried by a worker or the like at a construction site. The assist device200may also be a computer carried by an operator of the shovel100. The assist device200, however, may also be a stationary terminal device.

The management apparatus300is typically a stationary terminal device, and is, for example, a server computer installed in a management center or the like outside a construction site. The management apparatus300may also be a portable computer (for example, a portable terminal device such as a notebook PC, a tablet PC, or a smartphone).

At least one of the assist device200and the management apparatus300(hereinafter, “assist device200, etc.”) may include a monitor and an operating device for remote control. In this case, the operator operates the shovel100using the operating device for remote control. The operating device for remote control is connected to the controller30through, for example, a communications network such as a cellular phone network, a satellite communications network, or a short-range radio communications network.

According to the shovel management system SYS as described above, the controller30of the shovel100may transmit information on greasing to the assist device200, etc. The information on greasing includes, for example, at least one of information on timing to start greasing by the automatic greaser50, information on timing to end the greasing, information on greasing points, information on the amount of greasing, information on settings information, information on operating condition information, information on the time at which it is determined that the work load or operation frequency of a particular par is high (hereinafter “determination time”), information on the position of part of the machine body at the determination time, information of the work details of the shovel100at the determination time, information on a work environment at the determination time, information on the movement of the shovel100measured at the determination time and during a period before and after it, etc. The information on a work environment includes, for example, at least one of information on ground inclination, information on weather, etc. The information on the movement of the shovel100includes, for example, a pilot pressure, the pressure of hydraulic oil in a hydraulic actuator, etc.

The controller30may be configured to periodically transmit the information on greasing to the assist device200, etc., or may be configured to transmit the information on greasing to the assist device200, etc., when a predetermined condition is satisfied. The predetermined condition is, for example, that it is determined that the work load or operation frequency of a particular part is high, or the like.

The controller30may transmit images captured by an image capturing device to the assist device200, etc. The image capturing device is configured to capture an image of a space surrounding the shovel100, and may be attached to the shovel100or may be attached outside the shovel100. The images may be, for example, multiple images that are captured during a predetermined period including the determination time. The predetermined period may include a period preceding the determination time.

Furthermore, the controller30may transmit at least one of information on the work details of the shovel100, information on the pose of the shovel100, information on the pose of the excavation attachment, etc., during a predetermined period including the determination time to the assist device200, etc. This is for enabling a manager using the assist device200, etc., to obtain information on a work site. For example, this is for enabling the manager to analyze the cause of the occurrence of a situation where the ratio in which grease is distributed among greasing points has to be changed, and further for enabling the manager to improve the work environment of the shovel100based on the results of the analysis.