OPERATION DEVICE AND WORKING VEHICLE

An operation device provided in an operator's seat area of a working vehicle, to operate a front loader attached to a vehicle body of the working vehicle includes a lever shaft extending to the operator's seat area; a grip portion provided at a distal end portion of the lever shaft; and a plurality of operation switches provided at the grip portion, to cause the working vehicle to execute various actions. The operation switches include a shuttle changeover switch to switch between forward travel and backward travel of the working vehicle, and a shuttle restraint switch to restrain the switching with the shuttle changeover switch and cancel the restraint.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to an operation device mounted on a working vehicle such as a tractor, and a working vehicle including the operation device.

2. Description of the Related Art

Conventionally, an operation device disclosed in Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2016-41565 is known.

A working vehicle (tractor) disclosed in Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2016-41565 includes a first operation device (multi-function operation actuator) to increase/decrease the travel speed of the vehicle, and a second operation device (operation actuator for multi-operation) to operate an option function such as a front loader attached to a front portion of a vehicle body. The first operation device and the second operation device are provided at an armrest beside an operator's seat of the working vehicle (tractor). A grip of the first operation device is provided with a shuttle changeover switch (forward/backward travel button) to switch between forward travel and backward travel of the vehicle. The second operation device is a joystick type operation device, and a top portion of a grip (joystick main body) is provided with a push button type operation switch (first fingertip operation actuator). A side portion of the grip is provided with a dial type operation switch (first fingertip operation actuator). Any of these operation switches is an option switch, and for example, capable of being assigned with a function of storing a raising/lowering position of a bucket attached to a front end portion of the front loader.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

However, in the above-described conventional operation device, when work is performed using the front loader, it is necessary to operate the switching between forward travel and backward travel of the vehicle and the operation of the front loader by respective different operation devices (the first operation device and the second operation device). Thus, it takes time and effort to change the grip to hold. Also, there is a possibility that the operator fails to grip the grip in an appropriate position and operates a wrong operation switch.

The present invention is made to solve such problems of the related art, and an object of the present invention is to provide an operation device and a working vehicle that can easily and appropriately switch between forward travel and backward travel of the working vehicle even when work is performed using a front loader.

Solution to Problem

The present invention employs the following technical means to attain the above-described object.

An operation device according to one aspect of the present invention is an operation device provided in an operator's seat area of a working vehicle, to operate a front loader attached to a vehicle body of the working vehicle. The operation device includes a lever shaft extending to the operator's seat area; a grip portion provided at a distal end portion of the lever shaft; and a plurality of operation switches provided at the grip portion, to cause the working vehicle to execute various actions. The operation switches include a shuttle changeover switch to switch between forward travel and backward travel of the working vehicle, and a shuttle restraint switch to restrain the switching with the shuttle changeover switch and cancel the restraint.

The shuttle changeover switch may be provided at a position to be operable with a thumb of a hand gripping the grip portion, and the shuttle restraint switch may be provided at a position to be operable with a finger other than the thumb of the hand gripping the grip portion.

The grip portion may be provided with a recess recessed inward from a surface portion, and the shuttle changeover switch may be provided in the recess such that an operation surface portion does not protrude outward of a surface of the grip portion.

The operation switch may include a working tool operation switch capable of being assigned with an operation function of a working tool of the front loader, and the shuttle changeover switch may be disposed adjacent to the working tool operation switch.

The working tool operation switch may be a switch capable of being assigned with an operation function of a working tool that is attached instead of or in addition to a bucket of the front loader.

The grip portion may have a proximal end portion having a substantially vertically long columnar shape and extending upward from the distal end portion of the lever shaft, and a laterally extending portion having a substantially laterally long columnar shape and extending from an upper end of the proximal end portion toward a seat of the operator's seat area; and the shuttle changeover switch and the shuttle restraint switch may be provided at an outer peripheral surface portion of the laterally extending portion.

A distal end surface portion of the laterally extending portion near the seat may be inclined from a front edge that corresponds to a tip of a hand gripping the laterally extending portion toward a rear edge opposite to the front edge so as to face the seat, and at least one of the operation switches other than the shuttle changeover switch and the shuttle restraint switch may be provided at the distal end surface portion.

The laterally extending portion may be inclined upward as extending from an end near a distal end of the lever shaft toward the seat.

A raised portion to allow a thumb of a hand gripping the laterally extending portion to be hooked and held thereon may be provided at a position near a distal end with respect to an intermediate position in an extension direction of the laterally extending portion on the outer peripheral surface portion.

The operation switches may include a speed-change switch to switch a speed stage of the working vehicle, and the speed-change switch may be provided at a distal end surface portion of the laterally extending portion near the seat.

The operation switches may include a loader light switch to switch between turn-on and turn-off of an illumination light provided on the front loader, and the loader light switch may be provided at a distal end surface portion of the laterally extending portion near the seat.

A working vehicle according to one aspect of the present invention includes a vehicle body to be able to travel; a front loader attached to the vehicle body; a first operation device including at least one operation switch to operate the vehicle body; and a second operation device including at least one operation switch to operate the front loader. The at least one operation switch of the first operation device includes a first shuttle changeover switch to switch between forward travel and backward travel of the working vehicle, and a first shuttle restraint switch to restrain the switching with the first shuttle changeover switch and cancel the restraint. The at least one operation switch of the second operation device includes a second shuttle changeover switch to switch between the forward travel and the backward travel of the working vehicle, and a second shuttle restraint switch to restrain the switching with the second shuttle changeover switch and cancel the restraint.

The first operation device and the second operation device may be disposed on one lateral side of a seat provided on the vehicle body and at positions to be operable by an operator seated on the seat with a hand on the one lateral side gripping a grip portion, the first shuttle changeover switch and the second shuttle changeover switch each may be provided at a position to be operable with a thumb of the hand gripping the grip portion, and the first shuttle restraint switch and the second shuttle restraint switch each may be provided at a position to be operable with a finger other than the thumb of the hand gripping the grip portion.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

FIGS.1and2are side views of a working vehicle1according to an embodiment of the present invention. The working vehicle1of the present embodiment is a tractor. Note that the working vehicle1is not limited to the tractor, and may be another type of working vehicle.

Hereinafter, a direction in which the working vehicle1travels forward/backward (left-right direction inFIGS.1and2) is described as a front-rear direction, a direction horizontally orthogonal to the direction in which the working vehicle1travels forward/backward (near-far direction inFIGS.1and2) is described as a left-right direction, and a direction vertically orthogonal to the direction in which the working vehicle1travels forward/backward (up-down direction inFIGS.1and2) is described as an up-down direction. Also, the left-right direction of the working vehicle1is described as a width direction of a vehicle body2, a direction in the width direction of the vehicle body2and away from the center in the width direction is described as a laterally outward side of the vehicle body2, and a direction in the width direction of the vehicle body2and toward the center in the width direction is described as a laterally inward side of the vehicle body2.

The working vehicle1includes the vehicle body2and a traveling device3. A front loader4is attached to a front portion of the vehicle body2. The vehicle body2is configured to be able to travel. Specifically, a hood5is provided on the front portion of the vehicle body2. An engine and the like are housed inside the hood5. A clutch housing, a transmission case, a raising/lowering device, and the like are provided in a rear portion of the vehicle body2. The traveling device3includes a front wheel3F provided at the front portion of the vehicle body2and a rear wheel3R provided at the rear portion of the vehicle body2. Note that the rear wheel3R is supported by an output shaft of a rear wheel differential. The rear wheel3R may be a tire or a crawler.

A headlight6is provided on a front portion of the hood5. A cabin7in which an operator rides is provided in an upper portion of the vehicle body2. That is, the cabin7is mounted on the vehicle body2. Additionally, a controller2C that controls a traveling system and a working system is mounted on the vehicle body2. The controller2C includes an arithmetical unit (CPU or the like), a storage unit (memory), and the like, and executes various types of control on the working vehicle1based on a program stored in the storage unit. More specifically, the controller2C controls the traveling system and the working system of the working vehicle1based on operation signals when various operation devices (operation lever, switch, dial, and the like) installed in the cabin7are operated, detection signals of sensors provided at various positions of the vehicle body2, and the like. For example, the controller2C executes control on the rotation speed of the engine based on a detection signal from an accelerator pedal sensor, control relating to switching of a speed stage of a transmission based on an operation signal from an operation device, control relating to an action of the front loader4, and the like.

As illustrated inFIGS.1to3, at least one work light21is provided on an upper portion of the cabin7. The work light21is an illumination light (first illumination light) that is provided on the vehicle body2and illuminates forward of the vehicle body2. The work light21is provided on each of a left front portion and a right front portion of a roof7T of the cabin7. Specifically, the work lights21are provided at left and right positions of a front portion of the roof7T that covers a seat14from above. When the work lights21are turned on, the work lights21illuminate a work site in front of the vehicle body2from positions higher than the viewpoint of the operator riding in the cabin7. As illustrated inFIG.4, the seat14, an armrest15, a steering wheel16, a multi-function operation lever17, and a loader operation lever18are provided in an interior7S (operator's seat area) of the cabin7.

The seat14is provided at a substantially central portion in the left-right direction in the cabin7, and the operator is seated on the seat14in a posture facing the front. The armrest15is provided adjacently on one lateral side of the seat14. In the case of the present embodiment, the armrest15is provided rightward of the seat14. The armrest15extends in the front-rear direction of the seat14.

As illustrated inFIGS.1,2, and5, the front loader4includes an attachment frame8, a boom9, a bucket10, at least one boom cylinder11, and at least one bucket cylinder12. Additionally, the front loader4is provided with at least one loader light (second illumination light)22. In the case of the present embodiment, the loader light22is provided on a lower edge portion9U of the boom9. However, the loader light22may be provided at a position other than the lower edge portion9U of the boom9(for example, a side surface portion of the boom9). Note that the front loader4is not limited to the present embodiment as long as the front loader4includes the boom9and a working tool (bucket10). Also, the working tool is not limited to the bucket10, and may be another type of working tool such as a pallet fork, a sweeper, a mower, or a snow blower.

As illustrated inFIG.5, the attachment frame8includes a left frame8L and a right frame8R. The left frame8L and the right frame8R are detachably attached to a left surface and a right surface of the vehicle body2, respectively. The front loader4is attached to the vehicle body2via the attachment frame8.

The boom9is provided at the vehicle body2so as to be swingable upward/downward. The boom9includes a left boom9L disposed leftward of the vehicle body2and a right boom9R disposed rightward of the vehicle body2. In the case of the present embodiment, the left boom9L and the right boom9R each are a long, substantially box-shaped tube, and each are formed in a substantially V-like shape in side view in which a substantially central portion in the front-rear direction is bent at an obtuse angle. Note that the left boom9L and the right boom9R each are not limited to the substantially box-shaped tube, and may each have another shape. A rear end portion of the left boom9L is coupled and supported so as to be swingable about a pivot23provided at the left frame8L. A rear end portion of the right boom9R is coupled and supported so as to be swingable about a pivot23provided at the right frame8R. The left boom9L and the right boom9R are coupled to each other by a coupling frame9J at positions near front ends with respect to the centers in the front-rear direction. Accordingly, the left boom9L and the right boom9R swing together with the pivots23serving as fulcrums. In the case of the present embodiment, the boom9(left boom9L, right boom9R) is configured to be swingable upward/downward within a range of approximately 90° from a lower position in which the bucket10is disposed forward of and lower than the vehicle body2to an upper position in which the bucket10is disposed higher than the vehicle body2.

The bucket (working tool)10is attached to a front portion of the boom9. The bucket10is used mainly to shovel earth and sand or the like or push the earth and sand or the like forward in a work site in front of the vehicle body2, and is coupled and supported by a coupling bracket13provided at a rear portion of the bucket10so as to be swingable about a pivot24provided at a front end portion of the boom9.

The boom cylinder11is provided on a lower surface side of each of the left boom9L and the right boom9R, and couples the attachment frame8and the boom9. One end portion of each boom cylinder11is pivotally supported by the attachment frame8so as to be rotatable. Another end portion of the boom cylinder11is pivotally supported by an intermediate portion in the front-rear direction of the boom9so as to be rotatable. The boom cylinder11is constituted by a hydraulic cylinder. The boom cylinder11extends to swing the boom9upward about the pivot23, and contracts to swing the boom9downward about the pivot23. In the case of the present embodiment, a hydraulic hose25connected to the boom cylinder11is disposed along the lower edge portion (boom lower edge portion)9U of the boom9.

The bucket cylinder12is provided on an upper surface side of each of the left boom9L and the right boom9R, and couples the bucket10and the boom9. One end portion of the bucket cylinder12is pivotally supported by the coupling bracket13located at the rear portion of the bucket10so as to be rotatable. Another end portion of the bucket cylinder12is pivotally supported by the intermediate portion in the front-rear direction of the boom9so as to be rotatable. The bucket cylinder12is constituted by a hydraulic cylinder. The bucket cylinder12extends to swing the bucket10downward about the pivot24(dumping), and contracts to swing the bucket10upward about the pivot24(shoveling).

The loader light22is an illumination light (second illumination light) provided on the boom9and illuminates the periphery of the bucket10. As illustrated inFIGS.5to7, the loader light22is provided on each of the left boom9L and the right boom9R. Specifically, the loader light22is provided on a lower edge portion (boom lower edge portion9U) of a substantially central portion in the front-rear direction of each of the left boom9L and the right boom9R, and is turned on to illuminate the periphery of the bucket10from a position lower than the boom9.

As illustrated inFIGS.7and8, the loader light22includes a light main body30, a light bracket (bracket)31, a spacer32, a bracket fixing bolt33and a bracket fixing nut34, and a light fixing bolt35and a light fixing nut36.

The light main body30includes a light emitter30A, a cord connection terminal30B, and a bracket coupler30C. A shaft receiving hole30D is formed through the bracket coupler30C in the left-right direction. The light main body30is formed in a substantially quadrangular shape in front view. The light emitter30A is provided in a front surface portion of the light main body30. The cord connection terminal30B is provided at a rear surface portion of the light main body30. The bracket coupler30C is provided at an upper portion of the light main body30. A power supply cable26that supplies electricity to the light main body30is connected to the cord connection terminal30B. In the case of the present embodiment, the power supply cable26is arranged along the boom lower edge portion9U from the cord connection terminal30B, and is connected to a power supply mounted on the vehicle body2.

The light bracket31is coupled to the boom9and supports the loader light22. The light bracket31is provided with flanges31F and31B to prevent cables from coming into contact with the loader light22, at outer edge portions of a facing surface portion facing the boom9. The flanges31F and31B extend outward of the outer edge portions while being inclined in a direction in which a gap S2(described later) is widened.

Specifically, as illustrated inFIG.8, the light bracket31has an upper plate31T, a left side plate31L, a right side plate31R, a front plate31F, and a rear plate31B. The upper plate31T is formed in a substantially rectangular plate shape that is long in the front-rear direction, and is disposed at a position facing a lower surface of the boom lower edge portion9U. The left side plate31L is formed in a substantially trapezoidal plate shape in side view in which a rear edge portion is shorter than a front edge portion, and extends substantially vertically downward from a left side edge portion of the upper plate31T. The right side plate31R is formed in a substantially trapezoidal plate shape in side view in which a rear edge portion is shorter than a front edge portion, and extends substantially vertically downward from a right side edge portion of the upper plate31T. In this way, the left side plate31L and the right side plate31R extend substantially in parallel with each other along left and right outer edge portions of the upper plate31T with a gap S1having a predetermined width therebetween.

The front plate31F is formed in a substantially quadrangular plate shape, and extends forward and obliquely downward from a front edge portion (outer edge portion) of the upper plate31T (the facing surface portion facing the boom9). The rear plate31B is formed in a substantially quadrangular plate shape, and extends rearward and obliquely downward from a rear edge portion (outer edge portion) of the upper plate31T (the facing surface portion facing the boom9). In this way, the front plate31F and the rear plate31B extend from the front and rear outer edge portions of the upper plate31T obliquely downward in an extension direction of the boom9so as to be gradually away from the boom lower edge portion9U.

A substantially circular shaft insertion hole37A is provided in the upper plate31T. The shaft insertion hole37A is provided at a position located rearward of the center in the front-rear direction of the upper plate31T. The bracket fixing bolt33is inserted into the shaft insertion hole37A from above the light bracket31.

Substantially circular shaft insertion holes37B are provided in the left side plate31L and the right side plate31R. The shaft insertion holes37B are provided at positions located forward of the centers in the front-rear direction of the left side plate31L and the right side plate31R so as to face each other. The light fixing bolt35is inserted into the shaft insertion holes37B from a laterally outer side of the light bracket31.

A substantially circular harness fixing hole37C is provided in the left side plate31L. The harness fixing hole37C is provided at a position located rearward of the center in the front-rear direction of the left side plate31L. In the case of the present embodiment, a harness (not illustrated) for cable fixing is attached to the harness fixing hole37C, and the power supply cable26is coupled to and held by the light bracket31with the harness. Note that the power supply cable26may be inserted into the harness fixing hole37C and held by the light bracket31.

A through hole37D having a substantially trapezoidal plate shape in side view in which a rear edge portion is shorter than a front edge portion is provided in each of substantially central portions in the front-rear direction of the left side plate31L and the right side plate31R. In the case of the present embodiment, a recess38having a substantially trapezoidal plate shape in side view in which a rear edge portion is shorter than a front edge portion is provided in each of side surface portions substantially at the centers in the front-rear direction of the left boom9L and the right boom9R (seeFIG.6). The recesses38, the through holes37D, the left side plate31L, and the right side plate31R are formed in substantially similar shapes, thereby attaining uniformity in design in the vicinity of the intermediate portion of the boom9. Also, when the bracket31is to be attached, the bracket31is attached while comparing the shapes of the recesses38with the shapes of the through holes37D, or comparing the shapes of the recesses38with the shapes of the left side plate31L and the right side plate31R, and thus the bracket31can be accurately attached without a mistake in the forward/rearward orientation of the bracket31.

The width dimension (inner dimension) in the left-right direction of the gap S1between the left and right side plates31L and31R is set to be substantially the same as the width dimension in the left-right direction of the bracket coupler30C of the light main body30. The bracket coupler30C is inserted into the gap S1and is laterally sandwiched by the side plates31L and31R.

The spacer32is a cylindrical body long in the up-down direction, and is annularly mounted on a bolt shaft33S of the bracket fixing bolt33. The spacer32is disposed between the boom lower edge portion9U and the upper plate31T of the light bracket31at a position at which an axis passing through the center of a hollow portion32D of the spacer32is coaxial with the shaft insertion hole37A of the upper plate31T.

The bracket fixing bolt33has a substantially circular bolt head33H and the bolt shaft33S having a diameter smaller than that of the bolt head33H. An engagement protrusion33P having a substantially square shape in bottom view is provided on a lower surface portion of the bolt head33H. The bolt shaft33S is formed longer in the up-down direction than the spacer32annularly mounted on an outer periphery, and protrudes downward of a lower end of the spacer32. The engagement protrusion33P is formed to have a width substantially the same as the diameter of the bolt shaft33S. The bracket fixing bolt33is coupled to and held by a bolt attachment hole39provided in the boom lower edge portion9U. Specifically, the bolt attachment hole39has a circular hole39A having a diameter larger than that of the bolt head33H and a long hole39B extending forward from a peripheral edge portion of the circular hole39A. The long hole39B is formed to have a width substantially the same as the width of the engagement protrusion33P. When the bracket fixing bolt33is to be attached to the bolt attachment hole39, the bolt head33H is inserted into the circular hole39A from below and then slid forward along the long hole39B. Accordingly, the bolt head33H is hooked with a side edge portion of the long hole39B from above, and the engagement protrusion33P is fitted into the long hole39B. As a result, the bracket fixing bolt33is coupled to and held by the boom lower edge portion9U in a rotation-prevented state.

The spacer32is annularly mounted from below on the bolt shaft33S of the bracket fixing bolt33coupled to the boom lower edge portion9U as described above. The light bracket31is screwed and connected from below to the bolt shaft33S protruding downward from the hollow portion32D of the spacer32. The bracket fixing nut34is screwed and connected from below to the bolt shaft33S protruding downward from the shaft insertion hole37A of the light bracket31. Accordingly, as illustrated inFIG.7, the gap S2through which the cables arranged along the boom9can be inserted is defined between facing surfaces of the boom9and the light bracket31. Specifically, the light bracket31is fixed to the boom lower edge portion9U in a state in which the predetermined gap S2is present between the facing surfaces of the upper plate31T and the boom lower edge portion9U, and the cables such as the hydraulic hose25and the power supply cable26arranged along the boom lower edge portion9U extend toward the vehicle body2through the gap S2. In this way, the constant gap S2is formed between the light bracket31and the lower edge portion9U of the boom9by the spacer32, and the hydraulic hose25is passed through the gap S2. Thus, it is possible to prevent the hydraulic hose25from being pressed between the light bracket31and the lower edge portion9U of the boom9and the flow of a hydraulic fluid from being inhibited.

The light fixing bolt35has a bolt head35H and a bolt shaft35S. The bolt shaft35S is inserted from the laterally outer side into the shaft insertion holes37B provided in the side plates31L and31R of the light bracket31. The bracket coupler30C of the light main body30is inserted into the gap S1between the side plates31L and31R from below the light bracket31to a position at which the shaft receiving hole30D is coaxial with the shaft insertion holes37B of the side plates31L and31R. Thus, the bolt shaft35S is inserted into the shaft receiving hole30D of the bracket coupler30C through the shaft insertion holes37B. The light fixing nut36is screwed and connected from a laterally outer side to the bolt shaft35S protruding laterally outward from one shaft insertion hole37B. Accordingly, the light main body30is supported by the light bracket31so as to be swingable forward/rearward about the bolt shaft35S. Also, when the clamping force of the light fixing nut36to the bracket fixing bolt33is increased, the bracket coupler30C is strongly sandwiched in the left-right direction by the left and right side plates31L and31R. As a result, the light main body30is fixed to the light bracket31at a predetermined angle. In this way, by desirably changing the angle of the light main body30, an illumination direction of the loader light22can be adjusted in the front-rear direction of the bucket10. That is, the loader light22is provided so that the illumination direction can be adjusted forward/rearward of the bucket (working tool)10.

The steering wheel16is a steering device provided in the operator's seat area7S, to operate the traveling direction of the working vehicle1. As illustrated inFIG.4, the steering wheel16is connected to and supported by a steering post19provided forward of the seat14so as to be rotatable, and the steering angle of the front wheel3F is adjusted by rotating the steering wheel16leftward/rightward.

The multi-function operation lever17and the loader operation lever18are disposed on the one lateral side (right) of the seat14provided on the vehicle body2of the working vehicle1, and each are disposed at a position at which the operator seated on the seat14can grip and operate a grip41or43with the hand on the one lateral side (right). Specifically, the multi-function operation lever17is connected to a base27provided on a front end upper portion of the armrest15so as to be swingable forward/rearward. The loader operation lever18is connected to a base28provided rightward of a front end of the armrest15so as to be swingable forward/rearward. Accordingly, the operator can operate the multi-function operation lever17and the loader operation lever18in a posture in which the right arm is placed on the armrest15. As a result, the degree of fatigue of the operator during operation is reduced. Note that, in the case of the present embodiment, a work light switch (not illustrated) to manually turn on and turn off the work light21is provided at least at any one position or a plurality of positions of the steering post19, the armrest15, the multi-function operation lever17, and the loader operation lever18.

The multi-function operation lever17is an operation device (first operation device) provided in the operator's seat area7S of the working vehicle1, to operate the vehicle body2. The multi-function operation lever17includes a grip41serving as a grip portion for the operator, a lever shaft (not illustrated) that supports the grip41, and a plurality of operation switches42. The lever shaft of the multi-function operation lever17extends inside the base27. The lever shaft of the multi-function operation lever17is vertically provided so as to be swingable forward/rearward inside the base27. The transmission mounted on the vehicle body2is configured to switch the speed stage based on an operation signal when the lever shaft is operated to swing forward/rearward.

The grip41of the multi-function operation lever17is provided at an upwardly extending portion of the lever shaft (not illustrated). As illustrated inFIGS.9to11, the grip41is formed in an odd block shape having a width dimension in the left-right direction that is larger than a width dimension in the front-rear direction, and is provided at a distal end portion of the lever shaft (not illustrated). A surface portion (grip surface portion)41A of the grip41is inclined downward from a right front portion toward a left rear portion so as to face the operator seated on the seat14. The grip surface portion41A is provided with a grip portion41R and an operation panel portion41L. The operation panel portion41L is formed in a substantially flat surface shape, and is provided in a left side portion (near the seat14) with respect to a substantial center in the left-right direction of the grip surface portion41A. The grip portion41R is formed to be raised in a substantially arcuate convex curved surface shape, and is provided in a right portion (opposite to the seat14) with respect to the substantial center in the left-right direction of the grip surface portion41A. An edge portion (grip portion front edge portion)41B extending from a front portion to a right side portion of the grip portion41R is formed in a substantially arcuate shape in top view. A side surface portion (grip portion side surface portion)41C of the grip portion41R near the operation panel portion41L is formed to stand along a right edge of the operation panel portion41L. In the case of the present embodiment, a basic gripping manner when the multi-function operation lever17is operated is a state in which the grip41is gripped laterally obliquely from a right front side such that the palm is placed on the grip portion41R, the thumb is placed along the grip portion side surface portion41C, and the four fingers other than the thumb are hooked on the grip portion front edge portion41B.

The operation switches42are provided at the grip41and are operation switches to cause the vehicle body2to execute various actions. A plurality of operation switches42are provided at the operation panel portion41L of the grip41. An operation switch42is also provided at each of the grip portion side surface portion41C of the grip41and a back surface portion (grip back surface portion)41D of the grip41.

The operation switches42provided at the operation panel portion41L include a shuttle changeover switch (first shuttle changeover switch)42ato manually switch between forward travel and backward travel of the working vehicle1, a pumper switch42bto manually raise/lower a working tool attached to the raising/lowering device (not illustrated) in the rear portion of the vehicle body2, and an automatic speed-change changeover switch42cto manually switch between an automatic speed-change mode for automatic speed-change and a manual speed-change mode. Note that, in the automatic speed-change mode, an optimum vehicle speed stage is automatically selected by electronic control within a range of vehicle speed stages set in advance by the operator. In the manual speed-change mode, the operator can manually switch the vehicle speed stage.

The operation switch42provided at the grip portion side surface portion41C is a speed-change assist switch42dto manually switch a speed-change unit of the transmission. In the case of the present embodiment, the transmission includes a main speed-change unit that prevents or reduces impact at the time of switching the speed stage by appropriate control on hydraulic pressure, and a usual synchromesh type sub-speed-change unit. When the multi-function operation lever17is swung forward/rearward while the speed-change assist switch42dis pressed, a speed-change operation accompanied by switching of the sub-speed-change unit can be performed. In contrast, when the multi-function operation lever17is swung forward/rearward without the speed-change assist switch42dbeing pressed, a speed-change operation of only the main speed-change unit without switching of the sub-speed-change unit can be performed.

The operation switch42provided at the grip back surface portion41D is a shuttle restraint switch (first shuttle restraint switch)42eto manually restrain the switching with the shuttle changeover switch42aand cancel the restraint. In the case of the present embodiment, the switching between forward travel and backward travel of the working vehicle1is performed when the shuttle changeover switch42ais pressed while the shuttle restraint switch42eis pressed. Thus, even though the shuttle changeover switch42ais pressed without the shuttle restraint switch42ebeing pressed, the switching between forward travel and backward travel of the working vehicle1is not performed.

The shuttle changeover switch42a, the pumper switch42b, the automatic speed-change changeover switch42c, and the speed-change assist switch42dare provided at the surface portion (grip surface portion)41A of the grip41. The shuttle restraint switch42eis provided at the back surface portion (grip back surface portion)41D of the grip41.

The shuttle changeover switch42ais a seesaw switch, and is provided at a position located rightward of the center in the left-right direction (near the grip portion41R) of an upper half surface of the operation panel portion41L so as to be swingable forward/backward. The pumper switch42bis a seesaw switch, and is provided at a substantially central portion in the left-right direction of the upper half surface of the operation panel portion41L so as to be swingable forward/rearward. The automatic speed-change changeover switch42cis a push switch, and is provided at a position located leftward of the center in the left-right direction (opposite to the grip portion41R) of the upper half surface of the operation panel portion41L. The upper half surface of the operation panel portion41L is located at a position at which the fingertip of the thumb can sufficiently reach when the grip41is gripped in the basic gripping manner. That is, the shuttle changeover switch42a, the pumper switch42b, and the automatic speed-change changeover switch42care provided at positions so as to be operable with the thumb of the hand gripping the grip41(grip portion41R). Thus, any of the shuttle changeover switch42a, the pumper switch42b, and the automatic speed-change changeover switch42ccan be operated appropriately with the thumb while the grip41is gripped.

The speed-change assist switch42dis a push switch and is provided at a substantially central portion in the front-rear direction of the grip portion side surface portion41C. In the case of the present embodiment, the central portion in the front-rear direction of the grip portion side surface portion41C is a portion that is most likely to be touched by the fingertip of the thumb when the grip41is gripped in the basic gripping manner. That is, the speed-change assist switch42dis provided at a position to be operable with the thumb of the hand gripping the grip41(grip portion41R). Thus, the speed-change assist switch42dcan be operated appropriately with the thumb while the grip41is gripped.

The shuttle restraint switch42eis a push switch and is provided at a position near a front end of the grip portion front edge portion41B, of the grip back surface portion41D. That is, the shuttle restraint switch42eis provided at a position to be operable with the fingertip of a finger (index finger or middle finger) other than the thumb of the hand gripping the grip41(grip portion41R). Thus, the shuttle restraint switch42ecan be operated appropriately with the index finger or the middle finger while the grip41is gripped.

The loader operation lever18is an operation device (second operation device) provided in the operator's seat area7S of the working vehicle1, to operate the front loader4attached to the vehicle body2of the working vehicle1. That is, the loader operation lever18is a boom operation portion to manually operate the boom9. The loader operation lever18includes a grip43serving as a grip portion for the operator, a lever shaft44that supports the grip43, and a plurality of operation switches45. The lever shaft44of the loader operation lever18extends to the operator's seat area7S. The lever shaft44is supported inside the base28so as to be swingable forward/rearward. In the case of the present embodiment, the lever shaft44is a substantially S-shaped tube that extends upward from inside the base28, extends substantially horizontally toward the seat14in the middle, and is formed to further extend upward. An upwardly extending portion (distal end portion)44A of the lever shaft44is inserted into and fixed to the grip43of the loader operation lever18. A downwardly extending portion44B of the lever shaft44is coupled to and supported by a linkage inside the base28. The boom9of the front loader4is configured to move upward/downward based on an operation signal when the lever shaft44is operated to swing forward/backward.

As illustrated inFIGS.10and11, the grip43of the loader operation lever18is provided at a position higher than the grip41of the multi-function operation lever17. Also, as illustrated inFIG.4, the grip43of the loader operation lever18is provided at a position rearward of the grip41of the multi-function operation lever17. That is, the grip43of the loader operation lever18and the grip41of the multi-function operation lever17are arranged side by side in the front-rear direction.

The grip43of the loader operation lever18is provided at the upwardly extending portion44A of the lever shaft44. As illustrated inFIGS.9to11, the grip43is formed in a substantially inverted L shape extending leftward and upward in the operator's seat area7S. Specifically, the grip43includes a proximal end portion (grip proximal end portion)43V having a substantially vertically long columnar shape and extending upward from the upwardly extending portion44A of the lever shaft44, and a laterally extending portion (grip laterally extending portion)43W having a substantially laterally long columnar shape and extending from an upper end of the grip proximal end portion43V toward the seat14of the operator's seat area7S. In the case of the present embodiment, a basic gripping manner when the loader operation lever18is operated is a state in which an upper substantially half surface43S of an outer peripheral surface portion (grip outer peripheral surface)43A of the grip laterally extending portion43W is covered with the palm and the grip laterally extending portion43W is laterally gripped from above with the thumb and the other four fingers being placed along a lower substantially half surface of the grip outer peripheral surface43A. As illustrated inFIG.11, the grip laterally extending portion43W is inclined leftward (toward the seat14) at a predetermined angle with respect to an axis CL passing through the center of the upwardly extending portion44A of the lever shaft44and at an angle directed upward with respect to a horizontal direction. That is, the grip laterally extending portion43W of the loader operation lever18is inclined upward as extending from a position above the upwardly extending portion (distal end portion)44A of the lever shaft44(the upper end of the grip proximal end portion43V) toward the seat14of the operator's seat area7S. Accordingly, the operator can grip the grip43in a natural posture in which the wrist is twisted laterally and slightly outward (rightward).

As illustrated inFIGS.9and11, in the grip outer peripheral surface43A, a right end portion of an upper substantially half surface (grip upper surface)43S is formed in a substantially arcuate concave curved surface shape to be reduced toward the center, and a central portion is formed in a substantially arcuate convex curved surface shape to be expanded radially outward. That is, the grip outer peripheral surface43A is formed in a streamline shape in which the grip upper surface43S serving as a palm placing surface is gradually recessed as extending leftward from the right end portion, is turned into a gently raised surface and expands in the central portion, is gradually recessed again as further extending leftward, and reaches a left end portion. Accordingly, when the grip43is gripped, a portion in the vicinity of the hypothenar of the hand abuts along a right concave curved surface portion of the grip upper surface43S and is hooked on the right end portion of the grip upper surface43S from a left side. Also, a portion in the vicinity of the base portion of the index finger abuts along a left concave curved surface portion of the grip upper surface43S and is hooked on the left end portion of the grip upper surface43S from a right side. As a result, the hand is less likely to slip leftward/rightward (in an extension direction of the grip laterally extending portion43W), and the loader operation lever18can be reliably operated. Also, since it is not necessary to strongly grip the grip43during operation, fatigue of the hand is reduced.

A non-slip portion43D is provided on the grip outer peripheral surface43A. In the case of the present embodiment, the non-slip portion43D is provided over substantially the entire surface of the upper substantially half surface (grip upper surface)43S of the grip outer peripheral surface43A with which the palm comes into contact when the grip43is gripped, and is not provided on the lower substantially half surface of the grip outer peripheral surface43A with which the fingertips come into contact. The non-slip portion43D is formed of a material having a non-slip function such as rubber, and generates a larger friction force between the grip laterally extending portion43W and the palm of the hand gripping the grip laterally extending portion43W than the friction force with the lower substantially half surface of the grip outer peripheral surface43A without the non-slip portion43D. Accordingly, the hand gripping the grip43is less likely to slip in an extension direction and a circumferential direction thereof, and the loader operation lever18can be operated more reliably. Also, when the operation switches45provided at the grip43are operated, the movement of the finger is not hindered by the non-slip portion43D.

A plurality of irregularities are formed on a surface of the non-slip portion43D. In the case of the present embodiment, the irregularities are formed in a form of intersecting grooves extending in a plurality of lines at predetermined intervals obliquely in the circumferential direction. Accordingly, slipping of the hand gripping the grip43in the extension direction and the circumferential direction thereof can be further prevented or reduced. The non-slip portion43D is constituted by attaching or embedding a member formed of the material having the non-slip function to or in the grip outer peripheral surface43A. Note that the non-slip portion43D may be formed of the same material as the material of the grip outer peripheral surface43A or may be formed without the irregularities on the surface as long as the slipping of the hand gripping the grip43can be sufficiently prevented or reduced. Also, the non-slip portion43D does not have to be a body different from the grip outer peripheral surface43A, and may be integrally formed with the grip outer peripheral surface43A. Also, the irregularities are not limited to the form of intersecting grooves, and may be any of a form of waves, a form of a plurality of parallel ribs, a group of dimples, a group of small protrusions, a form of irregular undulations, or a combination thereof.

As illustrated inFIGS.9to11, a raised portion43E is provided on the grip outer peripheral surface43A. Specifically, the raised portion43E is provided at a position near a distal end (grip distal end surface)43T with respect to an intermediate position in the extension direction of the grip laterally extending portion43W on the outer peripheral surface portion (grip outer peripheral surface)43A of the grip laterally extending portion43W. The raised portion43E allows the thumb of the hand gripping the grip43to be hooked and held thereon. The raised portion43E is formed to have a mountain-shaped vertical section and extends in the circumferential direction along the grip outer peripheral surface43A. The raised portion43E is provided adjacently rightward of an outer peripheral edge portion (grip distal end edge portion)43C of the grip distal end surface43T. In the case of the present embodiment, the raised portion43E extends over substantially the entire circumference of the grip outer peripheral surface43A. Thus, when the grip laterally extending portion43W is gripped, the thumb or the index finger of the hand is likely to come into contact with the raised portion43E. Accordingly, the operator can easily recognize the positions of the operation switches45provided at the grip outer peripheral surface43A only with the tactile sense of the thumb or the index finger without visually checking the grip43. Also, while the grip43is gripped, a range from the vicinity of the base (thenar) to the fingertip of the thumb can be hooked on an upper portion of the raised portion43E. As a result, the fatigue of the hand is further reduced.

A surface (finger placing surface)43F between the raised portion43E and the grip distal end edge portion43C on a left lower portion of the grip outer peripheral surface43A is formed in a substantially arcuate concave curved surface shape. Thus, the fingertip of the thumb hooked on the raised portion43E is supported by the finger placing surface43F. Accordingly, the operator's hand is less likely to be fatigued even though the thumb is hooked on the raised portion43E for a long time.

A distal end surface portion (grip distal end surface)43T of the grip laterally extending portion43W is inclined from a front edge that corresponds to a tip of the hand gripping the grip laterally extending portion43W toward a rear edge opposite to the front edge. Specifically, the grip distal end surface43T is inclined from a left front end toward a right rear end so as to face the operator seated on the seat14. Accordingly, the operator can easily operate the operation switches45provided at the grip distal end surface43T with the fingertip of the thumb.

The operation switches45are provided at the grip43and are operation switches to cause the working vehicle1(the vehicle body2and the front loader4) to execute various actions. A plurality of operation switches45are provided at each of the grip distal end surface43T, the grip outer peripheral surface43A, and the grip proximal end portion43V.

The operation switches45provided at the grip distal end surface43T include a third function switch45bas a working tool operation switch capable of being assigned with an operation function of a working tool (bucket10or the like) of the front loader4, a speed-change switch45dto manually switch the speed stage of the transmission, and a loader light switch (second illumination switch)45fto manually turn on and turn off the loader light (second illumination light)22. The third function switch45bis a switch capable of being assigned with an operation function of a working tool attached instead of or in addition to the bucket10of the front loader4.

The operation switches45provided at the grip outer peripheral surface43A include a shuttle changeover switch (second shuttle changeover switch)45ato manually switch between forward travel and backward travel of the working vehicle1, a fourth function switch45cas a working tool operation switch capable of being assigned with an operation function of a working tool (bucket10or the like) of the front loader4, and a shuttle restraint switch (second shuttle restraint switch)45eto manually restrain the switching with the shuttle changeover switch45aand cancel the restraint. The fourth function switch45cis a switch capable of being assigned with an operation function of a working tool attached instead of or in addition to the bucket10of the front loader4.

The operation switches45provided at the grip proximal end portion43V include a first option switch45gand a second option switch45hcapable of being assigned with predetermined functions of the front loader4.

The third function switch45b, the speed-change switch45d, and the loader light switch45fof the operation switches45are provided at the distal end surface portion (grip distal end surface)43T of the grip43. Note that the loader light switch45fmay be provided at the grip proximal end portion43V. Also, the operation function to manually turn on and turn off the loader light (second illumination light)22may be assigned to the first option switch45gor the second option switch45h, instead of the loader light switch45f.

The third function switch45bis a push switch, and is provided in a pair arranged side by side in the up-down direction at positions near the left front end of the grip distal end surface43T. The speed-change switch45dis a push switch, and is provided in a pair arranged side by side in the up-down direction at substantially central positions in the left-right direction of the grip distal end surface43T. The loader light switch45fis a push switch and is provided at a position near the right rear end of the grip distal end surface43T.

In the case of the present embodiment, the grip distal end surface43T is located at a position at which the fingertip of the thumb can sufficiently reach when the grip laterally extending portion43W is gripped in the basic gripping manner. That is, the third function switch45b, the speed-change switch45d, and the loader light switch45fare provided at positions to be operable with the thumb of the hand gripping the grip laterally extending portion43W. Thus, any of the third function switch45b, the speed-change switch45d, and the loader light switch45fcan be operated appropriately with the thumb while the grip43is gripped. Note that the third function switch45bdisposed at the grip distal end surface43T is a switch that is used more frequently than the other operation switches45when work is performed using the front loader4.

The shuttle changeover switch45a, the fourth function switch45c, and the shuttle restraint switch45eof the operation switches45are provided at the outer peripheral surface portion (grip outer peripheral surface)43A of the grip43.

The shuttle changeover switch45ais a push switch and is provided at a position near a left end (distal end) of a lower portion of the grip outer peripheral surface43A. In the case of the present embodiment, the shuttle changeover switch45ais provided at the finger placing surface43F of the grip outer peripheral surface43A. Also, the shuttle changeover switch45ais disposed adjacently downward of the third function switch (working tool operation switch)45b. The fourth function switch45cand the shuttle restraint switch45eare both push switches, and are disposed laterally side by side in the left-right direction at positions near a left end (distal end) of a front portion of the grip outer peripheral surface43A. The shuttle restraint switch45eis provided leftward (on a distal end side) of the fourth function switch45c. Note that, in the case of the present embodiment, only the shuttle changeover switch45ais provided at the finger placing surface43F, but any of the operation switches45described above or an operation switch45having another function may be provided as necessary.

In the case of the present embodiment, the left lower portion (finger placing surface43F) of the grip outer peripheral surface43A is a portion that is most likely to be touched by the fingertip of the thumb when the grip laterally extending portion43W is gripped in the basic gripping manner. That is, the shuttle changeover switch45ais provided at a position to be operable with the thumb of the hand gripping the grip laterally extending portion43W. Thus, the shuttle changeover switch45acan be operated quickly and appropriately with the thumb while the grip43is gripped. Also, a left front portion of the grip outer peripheral surface43A (a left front position of a front edge portion of the non-slip portion43D) is a portion that is most likely to be touched by the fingertip of the index finger or the middle finger when the grip laterally extending portion43W is gripped in the basic gripping manner. That is, the fourth function switch45cand the shuttle restraint switch45eare provided at positions to be operable with the fingertip of a finger (index finger or middle finger) other than the thumb of the hand gripping the grip laterally extending portion43W. Thus, the fourth function switch45cand the shuttle restraint switch45ecan be operated quickly and appropriately with the index finger or the middle finger while the grip43is gripped. Also, a substantially hemispherical protrusion is formed in a central portion of an operation surface portion48of the shuttle restraint switch45e. Accordingly, the operator can easily recognize the position of the shuttle restraint switch45eonly with the tactile sense of the index finger or the middle finger without visually checking the grip43. Note that the shuttle changeover switch45aand the fourth function switch45cdisposed at the grip outer peripheral surface43A are switches that are used more frequently than the other operation switches45when work is performed using the front loader4.

The first option switch45gand the second option switch45hof the operation switches45are provided at the grip proximal end portion43V.

The first option switch45gand the second option switch45hare both push switches, and are disposed side by side in the up-down direction at a rear surface of the grip proximal end portion43V. In the case of the present embodiment, the rear surface of the grip proximal end portion43V is located at a position at which the fingertip of the thumb can sufficiently reach by the thumb being lowered from a state in which the grip laterally extending portion43W is gripped in the basic gripping manner. That is, the first option switch45gand the second option switch45hare provided at positions to be operable with the thumb of the hand placed on the grip laterally extending portion43W. Thus, any of the first option switch45gand the second option switch45hcan be appropriately operated with the thumb while the grip43is gripped.

The shuttle changeover switch45aof the loader operation lever18has a function common to the shuttle changeover switch42aprovided at the multi-function operation lever17, and the shuttle restraint switch45eof the loader operation lever18has a function common to the shuttle restraint switch42eprovided at the multi-function operation lever17. Thus, the working vehicle1can be switched between forward travel and backward travel by the shuttle changeover switch45abeing pressed with the thumb while the shuttle restraint switch45eis pressed with the index finger in a state in which the loader operation lever18is gripped.

As illustrated inFIGS.12A to13B, the grip43of the loader operation lever18is provided with at least one recess47that is recessed inward from a surface portion. Specifically, the recess47is provided in an attachment portion of each of the operation switches45at the grip distal end surface43T, the grip outer peripheral surface43A, and the grip proximal end portion43V. As illustrated inFIG.12AandFIG.12B, a recess47aprovided in each of the attachment portions of the third function switch45b, the first option switch45g, and the second option switch45hof the operation switches45is formed to have a substantially E-shaped cross section. The third function switch45bis provided in the recess47ain a state in which an operation surface portion48protrudes outward of the grip distal end surface43T. Also, the first option switch45gand the second option switch45hare provided in the recesses47ain a state in which operation surface portions48protrude outward of a surface of the grip proximal end portion43V.

In contrast, as illustrated inFIGS.13A and13B, a recess47bprovided in each of attachment portions of the speed-change switch45d, the shuttle changeover switch45a, the fourth function switch45c, the shuttle restraint switch45e, and the loader light switch45fof the operation switches45is formed in a substantially mortar-like shape. The speed-change switch45dis provided in the recess47bsuch that an operation surface portion48does not protrude outward of the grip distal end surface43T. Also, the shuttle changeover switch45a, the fourth function switch45c, the shuttle restraint switch45e, and the loader light switch45fare also provided in the recesses47blikewise such that operation surface portions48do not protrude outward of a surface of the grip43. Thus, when the grip43is gripped, the fingers do not inadvertently touch the operation switches45. Accordingly, an erroneous operation of the vehicle body2or the front loader4can be prevented. Also, it is possible to prevent the operation switches45from impairing operational feeling when the loader operation lever18is operated.

As illustrated inFIG.14, the controller2C is connected to a plurality of detectors50that are provided at various positions in the working vehicle1and detect various states, and switches of the operation devices. The detectors50are, for example, an engine rotation speed sensor50athat detects the rotation speed of the engine, a vehicle speed sensor50bthat detects the traveling speed of the working vehicle1, an accelerator pedal sensor50cthat detects the operation amount of the accelerator, a steering angle sensor50dthat detects the steering angle of the steering wheel16, a boom position sensor50ethat detects the extension amount of the boom cylinder11, and the like. The boom position sensor50efunctions as a boom position detector that detects the position of the boom9. The switches of the operation devices are, for example, the operation switches42of the multi-function operation lever17, the operation switches45of the loader operation lever18, and the like. However, the above-described detectors50and operation switches42and45are merely examples, and the above-described sensors and switches do not imply any limitation.

Additionally, the controller2C includes an action control unit51that controls actions of the working vehicle1and the front loader4based on signals from the detectors50and the operation switches42and45, and a storage unit52that stores various programs and data tables relating to the actions of the working vehicle1and the front loader4. In the case of the present embodiment, the action control unit51includes an illumination control unit51athat controls illumination actions of the work light (first illumination light)21and the loader light (second illumination light)22.

The illumination control unit51acan execute lighting restriction to automatically turn off or reduce the intensity of the work light (first illumination light)21when the loader light (second illumination light)22is in a turn-on state. The illumination control unit51aperforms control to turn on and turn off the work light21and the loader light22based on a signal indicating a turn-on state of the work light21, a signal indicating the turn-on state of the loader light22, a position detection signal output from the boom position sensor50e, an operation signal output in accordance with an operation on the loader light switch45f, and the like. That is, the illumination control unit51acontrols the turn-on states of the work light21and the loader light22based on the operation on the loader light switch45fand the extension amount of the boom cylinder11(the height position of the boom9).

In the present embodiment, the illumination control unit51aswitches between execution and cancellation of the lighting restriction in accordance with position detection information from the boom position sensor (boom position detector)50e. Specifically, the illumination control unit51acalculates an actual extension amount of the boom cylinder11based on the position detection signal output from the boom position sensor50eand the data table stored in the storage unit52, and determines a height position of the boom9based on the actual extension amount. Also, the illumination control unit51aturns on the work light21when an on operation on the work light switch (not illustrated) is detected, and turns on the loader light22when an on operation on the loader light switch45fis detected.

Further, the illumination control unit51aexecutes the lighting restriction when the boom9is raised to a predetermined position or higher. Specifically, when the on operation on the work light switch (not illustrated) is detected or in a case where, after the work light21is turned on, the boom9is raised to the predetermined position or higher and the actual extension amount is a predetermined threshold or more, the illumination control unit51aexecutes lighting restriction to maintain the work light21in a turn-off state (to turn off the work light21when the work light21is turned on).

In contrast, when the boom9is lower than the predetermined position, the illumination control unit51acancels the lighting restriction. Specifically, in a case where the boom9is lower than the predetermined position and the actual extension amount is less than the predetermined threshold, the illumination control unit51aturns on the work light21(maintains the work light21in the turn-on state when the work light21is turned on). That is, the lighting restriction is cancelled.

The predetermined position can be set to a position at which the height of at least a portion of the boom9is the same as the height of the work light (first illumination light)21. In the case of the present embodiment, the position of the boom9serving as a reference when the switching between the lighting restriction and the restriction cancellation is performed is set at a substantially central upper portion (bent portion upper edge)9T of the boom9in the front-rear direction, and the height position (threshold) at which the switching is performed is set at a position at which the bent portion upper edge9T is at the same height as the height of the work light21(horizontally forward of the work light21).

Thus, as illustrated inFIG.2, when the bent portion upper edge9T of the boom9is raised to the height position of the work light21or higher, the lighting restriction of the work light21is executed, and only the loader light22is in the turn-on state. Accordingly, the loader light22illuminates forward of the boom9, that is, the periphery of the bucket10. In contrast, as illustrated inFIG.1, when the bent portion upper edge9T of the boom9is lower than the height position of the work light21, the lighting restriction of the work light21is cancelled, and both the work light21and the loader light22are in the turn-on states. Accordingly, the work site in front of the vehicle body2and the periphery of the bucket10are illuminated by the work light21and the loader light22.

Other Embodiments

The above-described embodiment is configured such that the work light21is turned off in the case where the boom9is raised to the predetermined position or higher when the loader light22is in the turn-on state. However, instead of that the work light21is completely turned off, the illuminance of the work light21may be reduced (the intensity is reduced) to such an extent that visibility in the periphery of the bucket10is not impaired with light reflected by the boom9or the coupling frame9J. That is, in the present invention, the illumination control unit51acan execute lighting restriction to automatically reduce the intensity of the work light21when the loader light22is in the turn-on state.

Also, the above-described embodiment is configured such that the lighting restriction and the restriction cancellation of the work light21are switched depending on whether the bent portion upper edge9T of the boom9is raised to the height of the work light21or higher. However, the position of the boom9as the reference for the switching is not limited to the bent portion upper edge9T, and may be set at a front edge portion of the boom9or at the attachment position of the loader light22on the boom lower edge portion9U. Also, the height position at which the switching is performed is not limited to the height of the work light21, and may be set to a position lower than the height of the work light21(for example, a height position of an upper surface of the hood5) or may be set to a position higher than the height of the work light21(for example, a highest position in the movable range of the boom9). Alternatively, a setting operation unit constituted by an operation switch, an operation dial, or the like may be provided at the steering post19, the armrest15, the multi-function operation lever17, the loader operation lever18, or the like, and the height position (threshold) at which the switching is performed may be manually and desirably set and changed by an operation on the setting operation unit. With such a configuration, the operator can desirably adjust the timing at which the switching between the lighting restriction and the restriction cancellation of the work light21is executed in accordance with the illumination direction and arrangement of the work light21, the shape of the front loader4, or the like.

Also, the above-described embodiment is configured such that the lighting restriction and the restriction cancellation of the work light21are executed in accordance with the height position of the boom9. However, the illumination control unit51amay be able to execute lighting restriction of automatically turning off or reducing the intensity of the work light (first illumination light)21in response to a turn-on operation of the loader light (second illumination light)22. Specifically, the illumination control unit51amay be configured to execute lighting restriction of the work light21in response to the on operation on the loader light switch45f(the turn-on operation of the loader light22) and cancel the lighting restriction in response to an off operation on the loader light switch45f(a turn-off operation of the loader light22).

Also, the above-described embodiment is configured such that, when the boom9is lower than the predetermined position, the lighting restriction of the work light21is cancelled, and both the work light21and the loader light22are in the turn-on states. However, when the boom9is lower than the predetermined position, the lighting restriction of the work light21may be cancelled, and the lighting restriction of the loader light22may be executed. Specifically, in the case where the boom9is lower than the predetermined position when the loader light22is in the turn-on state, the illumination control unit51acancels the lighting restriction of the work light21(turns on or increases the intensity), and executes the lighting restriction of the loader light22(turns off or reduces the intensity). That is, the lighting of the loader light22is restricted, and the periphery of the bucket10is illuminated by the work light21. In contrast, when the boom9is raised to the predetermined position or higher, the lighting restriction of the work light21is executed (the work light21is turned off or reduced in intensity), and the lighting restriction of the loader light22is cancelled (the loader light22is turned on or increased in intensity). That is, the lighting of the work light21is restricted, and the periphery of the bucket10is illuminated by the loader light22.

Also, the above-described embodiment is configured such that the actual extension amount of the boom cylinder11is calculated based on the position detection signal output from the boom position sensor50e, and the height position of the boom9is linearly determined from the actual extension amount. However, the working vehicle1may include a boom position detector that detects the position of the boom9, and the illumination control unit51amay be configured to switch between execution and cancellation of the lighting restriction in accordance with position detection information from the boom position detector. Specifically, a rotation angle sensor may be provided at the pivot23or the like as the boom position detector that detects the position of the boom9, an actual angle of the boom9may be calculated based on an angle detection signal output from the above-described rotation angle sensor, and the height position of the boom9may be linearly determined from the actual angle. Alternatively, a detection sensor such as an infrared detection sensor, a magnet switch, or a seesaw switch may be provided on the vehicle body2or the front loader4as the boom position detector that detects the position of the boom9, and the detection sensor may detect the actual position of the boom9at a fixed point. Alternatively, an imaging device may be provided in the cabin7, on the roof7T, or the like as the boom position detector that detects the position of the boom9, and the position of the boom9may be analyzed and determined based on an image captured by the imaging device.

Also, in the above-described embodiment, the loader light22is provided on the lower edge portion9U of each of the left and right booms9(left boom9L and right boom9R). However, the loader light22may be provided on only one of the left and right booms9(left boom9L or right boom9R) or may be provided on one or both of left and right side surface portions of the boom9instead of the lower edge portion9U of the boom9as long as the loader light22can appropriately illuminate the periphery of the bucket10. Alternatively, the loader light22may be provided at an upper portion of the boom9(for example, the bent portion upper edge9T), or may be provided at each of the plurality of aforementioned positions.

Also, the above-described embodiment is configured such that the operator manually switches turn-on and turn-off of the work light21using the work light switch (not illustrated). However, the working vehicle1may include an illuminance sensor that detects illuminance outside the vehicle body2, and an automatic operation controller that automatically turns on and turns off the work light21based on detection by the illuminance sensor. The automatic operation controller may be configured to automatically turn on the work light21when the illuminance outside the vehicle body2decreases to a reference value or less and automatically turn off the work light21when the illuminance outside the vehicle body2exceeds the reference value.

In this way, a working vehicle1of the above-described embodiment includes a vehicle body2to be able to travel; a boom9provided on the vehicle body2so as to be swingable upward/downward; a bucket (working tool)10to be attached to a front portion of the boom9; at least one work light (first illumination light)21provided on the vehicle body2, to illuminate forward of the vehicle body2; at least one loader light (second illumination light)22provided on the boom9, to illuminate a periphery of the bucket10; and an illumination control unit51ato control illumination actions of the work light21and the loader light22. The illumination control unit51ais able to execute lighting restriction of automatically turning off or reducing intensity of the work light21when the loader light22is in a turn-on state.

According to this configuration, when the loader light22is used, the work light21can be automatically turned off or reduced in intensity. Thus, it is possible to prevent light of the work light21from being reflected by the boom9or the coupling frame9J and obstructing the field of view. Accordingly, even when the front loader4or the like including the boom9is attached to the vehicle body2to perform work, a work site in front of the vehicle body2and the state in the periphery of the bucket10can be appropriately visually recognized.

Additionally, the illumination control unit51aexecutes the lighting restriction when the boom9is raised to a predetermined position or higher.

According to this configuration, when the boom9is raised to the predetermined position or higher in the state in which the loader light22is turned on, the work light21is automatically turned off or reduced in intensity. Thus, it is possible to prevent the light of the work light21from being reflected by the boom9or the coupling frame9J at an appropriate timing. Accordingly, visibility of the work site and the periphery of the bucket10when the illumination is used is further improved.

Additionally, the illumination control unit51acancels the lighting restriction when the boom9is lower than the predetermined position.

According to this configuration, when the boom9is lower than the predetermined position in the state in which the loader light22is turned on, the lighting restriction of the work light21is cancelled. Thus, the loader light22and the work light21can illuminate forward of the vehicle body2(the periphery of the bucket10). Accordingly, the visibility of the work site and the periphery of the bucket10when the illumination is used is further improved.

Additionally, the predetermined position is set to a position at which a height of at least a portion of the boom9is the same as a height of the work light21.

According to this configuration, when at least the portion of the boom9is raised to the height of the work light21in the state in which the loader light22is turned on, the work light21is automatically turned off or reduced in intensity. Thus, it is possible to prevent the light of the work light21from being reflected by the boom9or the coupling frame9J at an appropriate timing. Accordingly, the visibility of the work site and the periphery of the bucket10when the illumination is used is further improved.

Additionally, the working vehicle1may include a loader light switch (second illumination switch)45fto manually turn on and turn off the loader light22. The illumination control unit51amay be configured to execute the lighting restriction in response to a turn-on operation on the loader light switch45f.

According to this configuration, the work light21is automatically turned off or reduced in intensity in accordance with the turn-on operation of the loader light22with the loader light switch45f. Thus, it is possible to more reliably prevent the light of the work light21from being reflected by the boom9or the coupling frame9J. Accordingly, the state of the work site and the periphery of the bucket10when the illumination is used can be appropriately visually recognized.

Additionally, the working vehicle1includes a boom position sensor (boom position detector)50eto detect a position of the boom9. The illumination control unit51aswitches between execution and cancellation of the lighting restriction in accordance with position detection information from the boom position sensor50e.

According to this configuration, the switching between the lighting restriction and the restriction cancellation of the work light21is performed in accordance with the position detection information on the boom9. Thus, it is possible to prevent the light of the work light21from being reflected by the boom9or the coupling frame9J at an appropriate timing. Accordingly, the visibility of the work site and the periphery of the bucket10when the illumination is used is further improved.

Additionally, the working vehicle1includes a loader operation lever (second operation device)18to manually operate the boom9. The loader light switch45fis provided at the loader operation lever18.

According to this configuration, the loader light22can be manually turned on and turned off while the loader operation lever18is gripped. Thus, the loader light22can be quickly turned on and turned off in accordance with the situation. Accordingly, the state of the work site and the periphery of the bucket10when the illumination is used can be further appropriately visually recognized. Also, usability is significantly improved.

Additionally, the loader light22is provided on a lower edge portion9U of the boom9.

According to this configuration, the work site and the periphery of the bucket10can be illuminated from below the boom9. Thus, the work site and the periphery of the bucket10can be more appropriately illuminated compared to a configuration in which the loader light22is provided at another position of the boom9. Accordingly, the visibility of the work site and the periphery of the bucket10when the illumination is used is further improved.

Additionally, the loader light22is provided so that an illumination direction is adjustable forward/rearward of the bucket10.

According to this configuration, the operator can desirably adjust the illumination direction of the loader light22in accordance with the arrangement of the loader light22with respect to the bucket10, the shape of the front loader4, or the like. Thus, it is possible to more appropriately visually recognize the state of the work site and the periphery of the bucket10when the illumination is used.

Additionally, the working vehicle1includes a bracket31coupled to the boom9, to support the loader light22. A gap S2to allow cables arranged along the boom9to pass therethrough is defined between facing surfaces of the boom9and the bracket31.

According to this configuration, the cables such as the hydraulic hose25and the power supply cable26can be arranged along the gap S2defined between the boom9and the bracket31. Thus, it is possible to prevent the cables from rubbing or being caught by the loader light22and the attachment direction (illumination direction) of the loader light22from being deviated when the boom9is actuated. Accordingly, the state of the work site and the periphery of the bucket10when the illumination is used can be appropriately visually recognized. Also, it is possible to prevent the cables from being defective due to the rubbing or the catching.

Additionally, the bracket31is provided with a front plate31F and a rear plate31B (flanges) to prevent the cables from coming into contact with the loader light22, at a front edge portion and a rear edge portion (outer edge portions) of an upper plate (facing surface portion)31T facing the boom9.

According to this configuration, even though the cables arranged along the gap S2move or bend when the boom9is actuated, the cables are prevented from coming into contact with the loader light22by the front plate31F and the rear plate31B provided at the front and rear outer edge portions of the upper plate31T of the bracket31. Thus, the attachment direction of the loader light22can be more reliably prevented from being deviated. Accordingly, the state of the work site and the periphery of the bucket10when the illumination is used can be further appropriately visually recognized. Also, it is possible to more reliably prevent the cables from being defective due to a contact with the loader light22. Also, the front plate31F and the rear plate31B function as a guide (hose guide) that supports the hydraulic hose25, which curves in the gap S2, from below.

Additionally, the front plate31F and the rear plate31B extend outward of the front edge portion and the rear edge portion (outer edge portions) of the upper plate31T while being inclined in a direction in which the gap S2is widened.

According to this configuration, even though the cables arranged along the gap S2largely move or bend outside the front edge portion and the rear edge portion of the upper plate31T, the cables are less likely to come into contact with end surfaces in an extension direction of the front plate31F and the rear plate31B of the bracket31. Accordingly, it is possible to more reliably prevent the cables from being defective due to a contact with the front plate31F and the rear plate31B.

Additionally, the working vehicle1includes a cabin7mounted on the vehicle body2. The boom9includes a left boom9L disposed leftward of the vehicle body2and a right boom9R disposed rightward of the vehicle body2. The work light21is provided on each of a left front portion and a right front portion of a roof7T of the cabin7. The loader light22is provided on each of the left boom9L and the right boom9R.

According to this configuration, the work site and the periphery of the bucket10can be illuminated from both left and right portions of the roof7T and both left and right portions of the boom9. Thus, the work site and the periphery of the bucket10can be illuminated more appropriately compared to a configuration in which the work light21is provided at a predetermined position on the roof7T or a configuration in which the loader light22is provided at a predetermined position on the boom9. Accordingly, the visibility of the work site and the periphery of the bucket10when the illumination is used is further improved.

Additionally, a loader operation lever (second operation device)18according to the present embodiment is an operation device provided in an operator's seat area7S of a working vehicle1, to operate a front loader4attached to a vehicle body2of the working vehicle1. The loader operation lever18includes a lever shaft44extending to the operator's seat area7S; a grip (grip portion)43provided at an upwardly extending portion (distal end portion)44A of the lever shaft44; and a plurality of operation switches45provided at the grip43, to cause the working vehicle1to execute various actions. The operation switches45include a shuttle changeover switch45ato switch between forward travel and backward travel of the working vehicle1, and a shuttle restraint switch45eto restrain the switching with the shuttle changeover switch45aand cancel the restraint.

According to this configuration, even when work is performed using the front loader4, the shuttle changeover switch45aand the shuttle restraint switch45ecan be operated while the grip43of the loader operation lever18is gripped. That is, the switching between the forward travel and the backward travel of the working vehicle1can be easily and appropriately performed while the front loader4is operated with the loader operation lever18. Accordingly, operability of the working vehicle1when the front loader4is used is significantly improved.

Additionally, the shuttle changeover switch45ais provided at a position to be operable with a thumb of a hand gripping the grip43, and the shuttle restraint switch45eis provided at a position to be operable with a finger other than the thumb of the hand gripping the grip43.

According to this configuration, the working vehicle1can be switched between the forward travel and the backward travel with the shuttle changeover switch45abeing pressed with the thumb while the shuttle restraint switch45eis pressed with the finger (for example, middle finger) other than the thumb. Thus, the operability of the working vehicle1when the front loader4is used is further improved.

Additionally, the grip43of the loader operation lever18is provided with a recess47recessed inward from a surface portion (grip outer peripheral surface43A), and the shuttle changeover switch45ais provided in the recess47such that an operation surface portion48does not protrude outward of a surface of the grip43.

According to this configuration, the finger or palm of the hand gripping the grip43is less likely to inadvertently come into contact with the shuttle changeover switch45a. Thus, it is possible to prevent the shuttle changeover switch45afrom being unintentionally pressed and the working vehicle1from being switched between the forward travel and the backward travel. Also, it is possible to prevent the shuttle changeover switch45afrom impairing operational feeling when the loader operation lever18is operated. Accordingly, the operability of the working vehicle1when the front loader4is used is further improved.

Additionally, the operation switch45includes a third function switch (working tool operation switch)45bcapable of being assigned with an operation function of a bucket (working tool)10of the front loader4, and the shuttle changeover switch45ais disposed adjacent to the third function switch45b.

According to this configuration, the shuttle changeover switch45aand the third function switch45bare disposed adjacent to each other. Thus, the switching between the forward travel and the backward travel of the working vehicle1can be smoothly performed while the bucket10is operated. Thus, the operability of the working vehicle1when the front loader4is used is further improved. Moreover, since the shuttle changeover switch45aand the third function switch45bare switches that are used more frequently than the other operation switches45, usability is also significantly improved.

Additionally, the third function switch45bis a switch capable of being assigned with an operation function of a working tool that is attached instead of or in addition to the bucket10of the front loader.

According to this configuration, when an operation function of another working tool is assigned to the third function switch45b, various types of front loaders4can be operated with the loader operation lever18. Thus, versatility is improved.

Additionally, the grip43has a grip proximal end portion (proximal end portion)43V having a substantially vertically long columnar shape and extending upward from the upwardly extending portion (distal end portion)44A of the lever shaft44, and a grip laterally extending portion (laterally extending portion)43W having a substantially laterally long columnar shape and extending from an upper end of the grip proximal end portion43V toward a seat14of the operator's seat area7S; and the shuttle changeover switch45aand the shuttle restraint switch45eare provided at a grip outer peripheral surface (an outer peripheral surface portion of the grip laterally extending portion43W)43A.

According to this configuration, when the grip laterally extending portion43W is gripped laterally so as to cover the grip outer peripheral surface43A with the palm, the fingertip of the thumb of the hand is naturally disposed in the vicinity of the shuttle changeover switch45aprovided at the grip distal end surface43T, and the finger (for example, middle finger) other than the thumb is naturally disposed in the vicinity of the shuttle restraint switch45eprovided at the grip outer peripheral surface43A. As a result, the switching between the forward travel and the backward travel of the working vehicle1can be performed further easily. Accordingly, the operability of the working vehicle1when the front loader4is used is further improved.

Additionally, a grip distal end surface (a distal end surface portion of the grip laterally extending portion43W near the seat14)43T is inclined from a front edge that corresponds to a tip of a hand gripping the grip laterally extending portion43W toward a rear edge opposite to the front edge so as to face the seat14, and at least one of the operation switches45other than the shuttle changeover switch45aand the shuttle restraint switch45eis provided at the grip distal end surface43T.

According to this configuration, when the grip laterally extending portion43W is gripped laterally so as to cover the grip outer peripheral surface43A with the palm, the operation switches45provided at the grip distal end surface43T can be operated more naturally and easily with the fingertip of the thumb of the hand. Also, the operator can easily visually recognize the operation switches45provided at the grip distal end surface43T. Accordingly, the operability of the working vehicle1when the front loader4is used is further improved.

Additionally, the grip laterally extending portion43W is inclined upward as extending from an end near the upwardly extending portion (distal end portion)44A of the lever shaft44toward the seat14.

According to this configuration, when the grip laterally extending portion43W is gripped laterally so as to cover the grip outer peripheral surface43A with the palm, the grip43can be gripped in a natural posture in which the wrist is twisted laterally and slightly outward (oppositely to the seat14). Thus, fatigue at the time of operating the loader operation lever18is reduced. Accordingly, the operability of the working vehicle1when the front loader4is used is further improved.

Additionally, a raised portion43E to allow a thumb of a hand gripping the grip laterally extending portion43W to be hooked and held thereon is provided at a position near a grip distal end surface (distal end)43T with respect to an intermediate position in an extension direction of the grip laterally extending portion43W on the grip outer peripheral surface (outer peripheral surface portion)43A.

According to this configuration, when the grip laterally extending portion43W is gripped laterally so as to cover the grip outer peripheral surface43A with the palm, the thumb of the hand can be hooked and held on the raised portion43E. Thus, fatigue at the time of operating the loader operation lever18is further reduced. Accordingly, the operability of the working vehicle1when the front loader4is used is further improved.

Additionally, the operation switches45include a speed-change switch45dto switch a speed stage of the working vehicle1, and the speed-change switch45dis provided at a grip distal end surface (a distal end surface portion of the grip laterally extending portion43W near the seat14)43T.

According to this configuration, the speed-change switch45dcan be operated while the grip43of the loader operation lever18is gripped. That is, the speed stage of the working vehicle1can be switched while the front loader4is operated with the loader operation lever18. Accordingly, the operability of the working vehicle1when the front loader4is used is further improved.

Additionally, the operation switches45include a loader light switch45fto switch between turn-on and turn-off of a loader light (illumination light)22provided on the front loader4, and the loader light switch45fis provided at a grip distal end surface (a distal end surface portion of the grip laterally extending portion43W near the seat14)43T.

According to this configuration, the loader light switch45fcan be operated while the grip43of the loader operation lever18is gripped. That is, the switching between the turn-on and the turn-off of the loader light22can be performed while the front loader4is operated with the loader operation lever18. Accordingly, the operability of the working vehicle1when the front loader4is used is further improved.

Additionally, a working vehicle1according to the present embodiment includes a vehicle body2to be able to travel; a front loader4attached to the vehicle body2; a multi-function operation lever (first operation device)17including at least one operation switch42to operate the vehicle body2; and a loader operation lever (second operation device)18including at least one operation switch45to operate the front loader4. The at least one operation switch42of the multi-function operation lever17includes a shuttle changeover switch (first shuttle changeover switch)42ato switch between forward travel and backward travel of the working vehicle1, and a shuttle restraint switch (first shuttle restraint switch)42eto restrain the switching with the shuttle changeover switch42aand cancel the restraint. The at least one operation switch45of the loader operation lever includes a shuttle changeover switch (second shuttle changeover switch)45ato switch between the forward travel and the backward travel of the working vehicle1, and a shuttle restraint switch (second shuttle restraint switch)45eto restrain the switching with the shuttle changeover switch45aand cancel the restraint.

According to this configuration, the switching between the forward travel and the backward travel of the working vehicle1can be operated with the multi-function operation lever17, and the switching between the forward travel and the backward travel of the working vehicle1can be operated with the loader operation lever18. That is, the switching between the forward travel and the backward travel of the working vehicle1can be performed with any of the multi-function operation lever17and the loader operation lever18. Moreover, when the loader operation lever18is used, the switching between the forward travel and the backward travel of the working vehicle1can be performed while the front loader4is operated. Accordingly, the operability of the working vehicle1when work is performed using the front loader4is significantly improved.

Additionally, in the above-described working vehicle1, the multi-function operation lever17and the loader operation lever18are disposed on one lateral side of a seat14provided on the vehicle body2and at positions to be operable by an operator seated on the seat14with a hand on the one lateral side gripping a grip41or43, the shuttle changeover switches (the first shuttle changeover switch and the second shuttle changeover switch)42aand45aeach are provided at a position to be operable with a thumb of the hand gripping the grip41or43, and the shuttle restraint switches (the first shuttle restraint switch and the second shuttle restraint switch)42eand45eeach are provided at a position to be operable with a finger other than the thumb of the hand gripping the grip41or43.

According to this configuration, when the multi-function operation lever17is used, the shuttle changeover switch42ais pressed with the thumb of the hand gripping the grip41while the shuttle restraint switch42eis pressed with the finger (for example, index finger) other than the thumb of the hand gripping the grip41. Hence, the working vehicle1can be switched between the forward travel and the backward travel. In contrast, when the loader operation lever18is used, the shuttle changeover switch45ais pressed with the thumb of the hand gripping the grip43while the shuttle restraint switch45eis pressed with the finger (for example, index finger) other than the thumb of the hand gripping the grip43. Hence, the working vehicle1can be switched between the forward travel and the backward travel. That is, in any of cases where the multi-function operation lever17is used and where the loader operation lever18is used, the working vehicle1can be switched between the forward travel and the backward travel with the same finger operation. Accordingly, the operability of the working vehicle1when the front loader4is used is further improved.