Patent Description:
Typically, shovels with operating levers installed on both sides of an operator's seat and switches installed around the operating levers are known (patent documents <NUM> to <NUM>).

In such shovels, the switches are placed near the operating levers such that an operator can operate the switches without changing his or her upper body posture. However, in such a configuration, when the operator operates the operating levers, a part of the operator's body may touch the switches, causing the switches to be mis-operated despite the operator having no intention to operate the switches. Thus, the prevention of mis-operation of the switches is desired.

Accordingly, the present invention provides an operating device as defined in claim <NUM> as well as a shovel as defined in claim <NUM> comprising such operating device.

According to the above embodiment, the shovel described above is capable of preventing mis-operation of a switch.

Embodiments will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In order to facilitate the understanding of the description, identical components in each drawing are given identical symbols, and overlapping descriptions are omitted.

In the accompanying drawings, an X-axis, a Y-axis, and a Z-axis are axes orthogonal to each other. Specifically, the X-axis extends along the depth (front-back) axis of the shovel, the Y-axis extends along the width (left-right) axis of the shovel, and the Z-axis extends along the turning axis of the shovel. In the present embodiment, the X and Y axes extend horizontally and the Z axis extends vertically.

First, an overall configuration of a shovel <NUM> as an excavating machine according to an embodiment of the present invention is described with reference to <FIG> is a side view illustrating the shovel <NUM>.

As illustrated in <FIG>, an upper turning body <NUM> is mounted on a lower traveling body <NUM> of the shovel <NUM> so as to be able to turn through a turning mechanism <NUM>. A boom <NUM> is attached to the upper turning body <NUM>. An arm <NUM> is attached to the tip of the boom <NUM>, and a bucket <NUM> as an end attachment is attached to the tip of an arm <NUM>. The boom <NUM>, the arm <NUM>, and the bucket <NUM> constitute an excavator attachment as an example of an attachment. The boom <NUM> is driven by a boom cylinder <NUM>, the arm <NUM> is driven by an arm cylinder <NUM>, and the bucket <NUM> is driven by a bucket cylinder <NUM>. The upper turning body <NUM> is provided with a cabin <NUM>, which is a cab, and is equipped with a power source such as an engine <NUM>.

A controller <NUM> is installed in the cabin <NUM>. In the present embodiment, the controller <NUM> functions as a control device configured to perform drive control of the shovel <NUM>. However, the controller <NUM> may be a control device specialized to implement specific functions. Specifically, the controller <NUM> is composed of a computer including processors such as a CPU, and memory such as a RAM and a ROM. Various functions of the controller <NUM> may be provided, for example, by the CPU executing programs stored in the ROM.

Next, a drive system of the shovel <NUM> will be described with reference to <FIG> is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of the drive system of the shovel <NUM>. In <FIG>, mechanical power transmission lines, hydraulic oil lines, pilot lines, and electrical signal lines are illustrated as double, thick solid, dashed, and dotted lines, respectively.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the drive system of the shovel <NUM> mainly includes an engine <NUM>, a regulator <NUM>, a main pump <NUM>, a pilot pump <NUM>, a control valve unit <NUM>, an operating device <NUM>, a discharge pressure sensor <NUM>, an operation pressure sensor <NUM>, a controller <NUM>, a dial <NUM>, a display device <NUM>, switches <NUM>, a switch <NUM>, switches 41a to 41f, rocker switches <NUM>, etc..

The engine <NUM> is a driving source of the shovel <NUM>. In the present embodiment, the engine <NUM> is a diesel engine that operates to maintain a predetermined target speed. An output shaft of the engine <NUM> is connected to respective input shafts of the main pump <NUM> and the pilot pump <NUM>.

The main pump <NUM> is configured to supply a hydraulic fluid to the control valve unit <NUM> via a hydraulic fluid line. In the present embodiment, the main pump <NUM> is a swashplate type variable displacement hydraulic pump.

The regulator <NUM> is configured to control a discharge amount of the main pump <NUM>. In the present embodiment, the regulator <NUM> controls the discharge amount of the main pump <NUM> by adjusting a swashplate tilt angle of the main pump <NUM> in response to a control command from the controller <NUM>.

The pilot pump <NUM> is configured to supply a hydraulic fluid to the operating device <NUM>, etc., via a pilot line. In the present embodiment, the pilot pump <NUM> is a fixed displacement hydraulic pump.

The pilot pump <NUM> may be omitted. In such a case, functions provided by the pilot pump <NUM> may be provided by the main pump <NUM>. That is, apart from the function of supplying the hydraulic fluid to the control valve unit <NUM>, the main pump <NUM> may have a function of supplying the hydraulic fluid to the operating device <NUM>, etc., after the pressure of the hydraulic fluid is reduced by drawing, etc..

The control valve unit <NUM> is configured to control the flow of hydraulic fluid in the hydraulic system mounted on the shovel <NUM>. In the present embodiment, the control valve unit <NUM> includes control valves <NUM> to <NUM>. The control valve unit <NUM> is configured to selectively supply a hydraulic fluid discharged by the main pump <NUM> to one or more hydraulic actuators through the control valves <NUM> to <NUM>. Each of the control valves <NUM> to <NUM> is configured to control a flow rate of hydraulic fluid flowing from the main pump <NUM> to the hydraulic actuator and a flow rate of hydraulic fluid flowing from the hydraulic actuator to a hydraulic fluid tank. The hydraulic actuators include a boom cylinder <NUM>, an arm cylinder <NUM>, a bucket cylinder <NUM>, a left traveling hydraulic motor 1A, a right traveling hydraulic motor 1B, and a turning hydraulic motor 2A.

The operating device <NUM> is a device used by the operator to operate the hydraulic actuators. In the present embodiment, the operating device <NUM> is configured to supply a hydraulic fluid discharged by the pilot pump <NUM> to a pilot port of a control valve corresponding to each of the hydraulic actuators via a pilot line. The pressure of the hydraulic fluid supplied to the pilot port (pilot pressure) is a pressure according to the operating direction and operating amount of the operating device <NUM>.

The operating device <NUM> may be an electric operating device. In this case, the electric operating device is configured to output an electric signal corresponding to the operating amount to the controller <NUM>. The operating amount of an operating lever acting as an electric operating device may be derived based on the output of other sensors such as sensors that detect the tilt angle of the operating lever. A solenoid valve is also disposed between the pilot pump <NUM> and each pilot port of the control valves <NUM> to <NUM>. The solenoid valve is configured to operate according to electrical signals from the controller <NUM>. This configuration enables the controller <NUM> to move, when the electric operating device is operated, each of the control valves <NUM> to <NUM> in the control valve unit <NUM> by controlling the solenoid valve to increase or decrease the pilot pressure according to an electrical signal corresponding to the operating amount. Each of the control valves <NUM> to <NUM> may be composed of an electromagnetic spool valve. In this case, the electromagnetic spool valve operates according to an electrical signal from the controller <NUM> corresponding to the operating amount of the electric operating device.

The discharge pressure sensor <NUM> is configured to detect a discharge pressure of the main pump <NUM>. In the present embodiment, the discharge pressure sensor <NUM> outputs a detected value to the controller <NUM>.

The operation pressure sensor <NUM> is an example of an operating content detection device and is configured to detect an operating content performed by an operator using the operating device <NUM>. In the present embodiment, the operation pressure sensor <NUM> detects an operating direction and an operating amount of the operating device <NUM> corresponding to each of the hydraulic actuators in the form of pressure (pilot pressure), and outputs the detected value to the controller <NUM>. However, the operating content of the operating device <NUM> may be detected using other sensors other than the operation pressure sensor <NUM>. The dial <NUM> is a rotary knob (dial switch) used by the operator to select a target speed of the engine <NUM>. The operator can adjust the target speed of the engine <NUM> by rotating the dial <NUM>. The dial <NUM> is provided with a switch <NUM>, so that the operator can switch output characteristics of the shovel <NUM> by depressing the switch <NUM>.

Specifically, the operator can select one of the multiple target rotational speeds by rotating the dial <NUM>. The dial <NUM> is configured to transmit information indicating a setting status of the target speed of the engine <NUM> to the controller <NUM>. In the present embodiment, the dial <NUM> is configured such that the target speed can be switched in <NUM> steps from the first level (the level corresponding to the lowest target speed) to the 10th level (the level corresponding to the highest target speed). The actual speed of the engine <NUM> is controlled to be a target speed selected by the dial <NUM>. The target speed value used at each level may be configured to be changeable.

Also, in the present embodiment, the dial <NUM> is configured to rotate without limit. That is, the dial <NUM> is not provided with a physical rotation stop such as a stopper in either the clockwise or counterclockwise direction. In addition, neither a rotating portion nor a non-rotating portion of the dial <NUM> is provided with a scale to identify each of the first to the 10th levels, nor is it provided with a mark (e.g., an arrow) indicating the present level (rotating position). That is, the operator is unable to check which one of the first level to the 10th level is selected by simply looking at the dial <NUM>. The dial <NUM> may be configured such that a click feeling is obtained every time the operator rotates the dial <NUM> by a predetermined angle. This configuration enables the operator to increase the level by, for example, rotating the dial <NUM> clockwise to the 5th level, the 6th level, and so on, and to continue rotating the dial <NUM> clockwise even after reaching the 10th level. However, once the 10th level is reached, the selected level is maintained at the 10th level even if the operator continues rotating the dial <NUM> clockwise. In addition, since there is no scale or mark, no matter how much the dial <NUM> is rotated, there is no occurrence of a state in which the first level is indicated by a scale and a mark regardless of the current level not being the first level.

The operator can also switch the output characteristics of the shovel <NUM> between, for example, normal characteristics and fuel-efficient characteristics by depressing the switch <NUM>. The fuel-efficient characteristics are output characteristics selected when the operator is desired to operate the shovel <NUM> with low fuel consumption. When the fuel-efficient characteristics are selected, the movement of the hydraulic actuators in response to the operation of the operating device <NUM> becomes more moderate. Therefore, the operator can operate the hydraulic actuators precisely to improve the safety of the work. Also, the operator can operate the shovel <NUM> with low noise.

When the fuel-efficient characteristics are selected, the controller <NUM> controls the engine <NUM> so as to provide output characteristics of the engine <NUM> that are different from the output characteristics of the engine <NUM> when the normal characteristics are selected. Such output characteristics may, for example, include a characteristic representing a relationship between the engine speed and torque of the engine <NUM>.

For example, when the fuel-efficient characteristics are selected, the controller <NUM> may control the engine <NUM> to reduce torque. Alternatively, the controller <NUM> may reduce the target speed without changing the output characteristics of the engine <NUM> when the fuel-efficient characteristics are selected. In such a case, the controller <NUM> may reduce the target speed corresponding to each level selectable by rotating the dial <NUM> by a predetermined range.

For example, in a configuration in which, when the switch <NUM> is not depressed, the target speed set when the 10th level is selected is greater than the target speed set when the 9th level is selected, the predetermined range (drop range) may be the same for the 9th level and the 10th level. In this case, the target speed set by depression of the switch <NUM> when the 10th level is selected is greater than the target speed set by depression of the switch <NUM> when the 9th level is selected. However, the predetermined range (drop range) may be set to be larger at the 10th level than at the 9th level. In this case, the target speed set by depression of the switch <NUM> when the 10th level is selected may be the same as the target speed set by depression of the switch <NUM> when the 9th level is selected. The same applies to relationships of other levels apart from the 10th level and the 9th level.

The maximum target speed that can be set when the fuel-efficient characteristics are selected may also be limited to be lower than the maximum target speed that can be set when the normal characteristics are selected.

Thus, when the fuel-efficient characteristics are selected, the controller <NUM> can control the engine <NUM> to operate the shovel <NUM> more fuel-efficiently than when the normal characteristics are selected.

Specifically, information relating to the target speed of the engine <NUM> is input to the controller <NUM> from the dial <NUM> at a predetermined timing. In addition, information relating to the output characteristics of the shovel <NUM> (engine <NUM>) is input to the controller <NUM> from the switch <NUM> at a predetermined timing. The controller <NUM> controls the speed of the engine <NUM> based on the information relating to the target speed input from the dial <NUM> and the information relating to the output characteristics of the shovel <NUM> (engine <NUM>) input from the switch <NUM>.

Various information is also input to the controller <NUM> from the switches <NUM>, the switches 41a to 41f, the rocker switches <NUM>, etc..

Next, referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, an operator's seat <NUM> and the operating device <NUM> installed in the cabin <NUM> will be described. <FIG> is a left side view illustrating an interior of the cabin <NUM>. <FIG> is a top view illustrating the interior of the cabin <NUM>. In the present embodiment, the operating device <NUM> includes a left operating lever 26A, a right operating lever 26B, a left traveling pedal 26C, a right traveling pedal 26D, a left traveling lever 26E, and a right traveling lever 26F.

The operator's seat <NUM> is installed in the cabin <NUM>. The operator's seat <NUM> includes a seat <NUM> on which the operator sits, and a backrest <NUM>. The operator's seat <NUM> is a reclining seat, and a tilt angle of the backrest <NUM> is adjustable. A left armrest 106A is located on the left side of the operator's seat <NUM>, and a right armrest 106B is located on the right side of the operator's seat <NUM>. The left armrest 106A and the right armrest 106B are rotatably supported by the backrest <NUM>.

A left console 120A is located on the left side of the operator's seat <NUM>, and a right console 120B is located on the right side of the operator's seat <NUM>. The left console 120A and the right console 120B are disposed to extend along a longitudinal direction of the operator's seat <NUM>. The operator's seat <NUM> is configured to be slidable back and forth. The operator's seat <NUM> may be configured to be slidable back and forth along with the left console 120A and the right console 120B.

The left operating lever 26A is disposed at a front part of the left console 120A. Similarly, a right operating lever 26B is disposed at a front part of the right console 120B. The operator seated in the operator's seat <NUM> can operate the left operating lever 26A while gripping the left operating lever 26A with his or her left hand, and also operate the right operating lever 26B while gripping the right operating lever 26B with his or her right hand. Specifically, the operator seated in the operator's seat <NUM> can operate the left operating lever 26A with his or her left hand to drive the arm cylinder <NUM> and the turning hydraulic motor 2A. The operator seated in the operator's seat <NUM> can operate the right operating lever 26B with his or her right hand to drive the boom cylinder <NUM> and the bucket cylinder <NUM>. Bases of the left operating lever 26A and the right operating lever 26B are each covered with a lever boot <NUM>.

The left traveling pedal 26C and the right traveling pedal 26D are located on a floor surface in front of the operator's seat <NUM>. The operator seated in the operator's seat <NUM> can operate the left traveling pedal 26C with his or her left foot to drive the left traveling hydraulic motor 1A. The operator seated in the operator's seat <NUM> can operate the right traveling pedal 26D with his or her right foot to drive the right traveling hydraulic motor 1B.

The left traveling lever 26E extends upward from the vicinity of the left traveling pedal 26C. The operator seated in the operator's seat <NUM> can operate the left traveling lever 26E while gripping the left traveling lever 26E with his or her left hand to drive the left traveling hydraulic motor 1A, in the same manner as the operation via the left traveling pedal 26C. The right traveling lever 26F extends upward from the vicinity of the right traveling pedal 26D. The operator seated in the operator's seat <NUM> can operate the right traveling lever 26F while gripping the right traveling lever 26F with his or her right hand to drive the right traveling hydraulic motor 1B, in the same manner as the operation via the right traveling pedal 26D.

The display device <NUM> is located at a right front part of the cabin <NUM> to display information such as working conditions or operating conditions of the shovel <NUM>. The operator seated in the operator's seat <NUM> can operate the shovel <NUM> while checking various information displayed on the display device <NUM>. The display device <NUM> is provided with the switches <NUM>.

A gate lock lever <NUM> is located on the left side (i.e., the access door side) of the operator's seat <NUM>. When the gate lock lever <NUM> is lifted (in the unlocked state), the hydraulic actuator becomes operable, and the operator can operate the shovel <NUM>. When the gate lock lever <NUM> is depressed (in the locked state), the hydraulic actuator becomes inoperative, and the operator is unable to operate the shovel <NUM>. Thus, unless the operator sits on the operator's seat <NUM> and pulls up the gate lock lever <NUM>, the shovel <NUM> will not be operated, and the safety of workers, etc. who work around the shovel <NUM> will be maintained.

A window console 120C is installed on the right side of the right console 120B of the operator's seat <NUM>. In <FIG> and <FIG>, the window console 120C extends over the entire length of the cabin <NUM> in a longitudinal direction, and is disposed parallel to the right console 120B. The display device <NUM> is installed at a front part of the window console 120C. The window console 120C is equipped with an ignition switch <NUM>, a radio <NUM>, etc. The ignition switch <NUM>, the radio <NUM>, etc., may be installed on the left console 120A or the right console 120B.

The left armrest 106A is located above the left console 120A. The right armrest 106B is also located above the right console 120B. Specifically, the left armrest 106A is located such that at least a portion of the left armrest 106A covers a portion of the left console 120A when viewed from above. The same applies to the right armrest 106B.

In the right console 120B, a switch panel <NUM> is located between the right armrest 106B and the right operating lever 26B. The switch panel <NUM> includes switches 41a to 41f and a dial <NUM>. The dial <NUM> is provided with a switch <NUM>.

Next, referring to <FIG>, a control system SYS mounted on the shovel in <FIG> will be described. <FIG> is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of the control system SYS, where the mechanical power transmission line, the hydraulic oil line, the pilot line, and the electrical control line are illustrated with double, solid, dashed, and dot-dash lines, respectively.

The control system SYS mainly includes an engine <NUM>, main pumps <NUM>, a pilot pump <NUM>, a control valve unit <NUM>, throttles <NUM>, control pressure sensors <NUM>, an operating device <NUM>, operation pressure sensors <NUM>, a controller <NUM>, a gate lock valve <NUM>, a gate lock lever <NUM>, etc..

In the example illustrated in <FIG>, the control valve unit <NUM> includes control valves <NUM> to <NUM> that control a flow of hydraulic fluid discharged by the main pumps <NUM>. The hydraulic fluid discharged by the main pumps <NUM> is selectively supplied to one or more hydraulic actuators through the control valves <NUM> to <NUM>. The control valves <NUM> to <NUM> are configured to control the flow rate of hydraulic fluid flowing from the main pumps <NUM> to the hydraulic actuators and the flow rate of hydraulic fluid flowing from the hydraulic actuators to the hydraulic fluid tank.

In <FIG>, the control system SYS circulates hydraulic fluid from the main pumps <NUM> driven by the engine <NUM> to the hydraulic fluid tank via center bypass lines <NUM> or parallel lines <NUM>, and the throttles <NUM>.

Specifically, the center bypass lines <NUM> include a left center bypass line <NUM> and a right center bypass line 40R. The left center bypass line <NUM> is a hydraulic oil line through control valves <NUM>, <NUM>, 175A and 176A located within the control valve unit <NUM>. The right center bypass line 40R is a hydraulic oil line through control valves <NUM>, <NUM>, 175B and 176B located within the control valve unit <NUM>.

The control valve <NUM> is a spool valve that supplies a hydraulic fluid discharged by a left main pump <NUM> to the left traveling hydraulic motor 1A, and switches the flow of hydraulic fluid to discharge the hydraulic fluid discharged by the left traveling hydraulic motor 1A to the hydraulic fluid tank. When the left traveling pedal 26C or the left traveling lever 26E is tilted forward, the control valve <NUM> is moved to the left, in response to pilot pressure received by a right pilot port 171R, to forward rotate the left traveling hydraulic motor 1A. When the left traveling pedal 26C or the left traveling lever 26E is tilted rearward, the control valve <NUM> is moved to the right, in response to pilot pressure received by a left pilot port <NUM>, to reverse the left traveling hydraulic motor 1A.

The control valve <NUM> is a spool valve that supplies a hydraulic fluid discharged by a right main pump 14R to the right traveling hydraulic motor 1B, and switches the flow of hydraulic fluid to discharge the hydraulic fluid discharged by the right traveling hydraulic motor 1B to the hydraulic fluid tank. When the right traveling pedal 26D or the right traveling lever 26F is tilted forward, the control valve <NUM> is moved to the left, in response to pilot pressure received by a right pilot port 172R, to forward rotate the right traveling hydraulic motor 1B. When the right traveling pedal 26D or the right traveling lever 26F is tilted rearward, the control valve <NUM> is moved to the right, in response to pilot pressure received by the left pilot port <NUM>, to reverse the right traveling hydraulic motor 1B.

The control valve <NUM> is a spool valve that supplies a hydraulic fluid discharged by the left main pump <NUM> to the turning hydraulic motor 2A, and switches the flow of hydraulic fluid to discharge the hydraulic fluid discharged by the turning hydraulic motor 2A to the hydraulic fluid tank. When the left operating lever 26A is tilted to the right, the control valve <NUM> is moved to the left, in response to pilot pressure received by a right pilot port 173R, to forward rotate the turning hydraulic motor 2A. That is, the control valve <NUM> rotates the upper turning body <NUM> to the right. In addition, when the left operating lever 26A is tilted to the left, the control valve <NUM> is moved to the right, in response to pilot pressure received by a left pilot port <NUM>, to reverse the turning hydraulic motor 2A. That is, the control valve <NUM> rotates the upper turning body <NUM> to the left.

The control valve <NUM> is a spool valve that supplies a hydraulic fluid discharged by the right main pump 14R to the bucket cylinder <NUM> and discharges the hydraulic fluid in the bucket cylinder <NUM> to the hydraulic fluid tank. When the right operating lever 26B is tilted to the left, the control valve <NUM> is moved to the right, in response to pilot pressure received by the left pilot port <NUM>, and the bucket cylinder <NUM> is extended to close the bucket <NUM>. When the right operating lever 26B is tilted to the right, the control valve <NUM> is moved to the left, in response to pilot pressure received by the right pilot port 174R, and contracts the bucket cylinder <NUM> to open the bucket <NUM>.

The control valve <NUM> is a spool valve that supplies a hydraulic fluid discharged by the main pump <NUM> to the boom cylinder <NUM>, and switches the flow of hydraulic fluid to discharge the hydraulic fluid in the boom cylinder <NUM> to the hydraulic fluid tank. Specifically, the control valve <NUM> includes the control valve 175A and the control valve 175B.

When the right operating lever 26B is tilted rearward, the control valve 175A is moved to the left, in response to pilot pressure received by the right pilot port 175AR, and the boom cylinder <NUM> is extended to raise the boom <NUM>. When the right operating lever 26B is tilted forward, the control valve 175B is moved to the left, in response to pilot pressure received by the right pilot port 175BR, and the boom cylinder <NUM> is contracted to lower the boom <NUM>. When the right operating lever 26B is tilted rearward, the control valve 175B is moved to the right, in response to pilot pressure received by the left pilot port 175BL, and the boom cylinder <NUM> is extended to raise the boom <NUM>.

The control valve <NUM> is a spool valve that supplies a hydraulic fluid discharged by the main pump <NUM> to the arm cylinder <NUM>, and switches the flow of hydraulic fluid to discharge the hydraulic fluid in the arm cylinder <NUM> to the hydraulic fluid tank. Specifically, the control valve <NUM> includes the control valve 176A and the control valve 176B.

When the left operating lever 26A is tilted forward, the control valve 176A is moved to the right, in response to pilot pressure received by the left pilot port 176AL, and the arm cylinder <NUM> is contracted to open the arm <NUM>. Also, when the left operating lever 26A is tilted rearward, the control valve 176A is moved to the left, in response to pilot pressure received by the right pilot port 176AR, and the arm cylinder <NUM> is extended to close the arm <NUM>. When the left operating lever 26A is tilted forward, the control valve 176B is moved to the left, in response to pilot pressure received by the right pilot port 176BR, and the arm cylinder <NUM> is contracted to open the arm <NUM>. When the left operating lever 26A is tilted rearward, the control valve 176B is moved to the right, in response to pilot pressure received by the left pilot port 176BL, and the arm cylinder <NUM> is extended to close the arm <NUM>.

In the example illustrated in <FIG>, the operation pressure sensor <NUM> includes a left operation pressure sensor <NUM>, a right operation pressure sensor 29R, a left traveling pressure sensor 29DL, and a right traveling pressure sensor 29DR. The left operation pressure sensor <NUM> detects an operating content of the left operating lever 26A. The right operation pressure sensor 29R detects an operating content of the right operating lever 26B. The left traveling pressure sensor 29DL detects operating contents of the left traveling pedal 26C and the left traveling lever 26E. The right traveling pressure sensor 29DR detects operating contents of the right traveling pedal 26D and the right traveling lever 26F.

The gate lock valve <NUM> is configured to switch the communication and disconnection of a line connecting the operating device <NUM> and the pilot pump <NUM>. In the example illustrated in <FIG>, the gate lock valve <NUM> is a solenoid valve that switches the communication and disconnection of a line L1 connecting the operating device <NUM> and the pilot pump <NUM>. The gate lock valve <NUM> causes the line L1 to be in communication when an unlock signal is received, and disconnects the line L1 when the unlock signal is not received. The gate lock valve <NUM> may be configured to disconnect the line L1 when a lock signal is received. The gate lock valve <NUM> may consist of a proportional pressure reducing valve.

Next, negative control adopted in the hydraulic system illustrated in <FIG> is described. In the center bypass line <NUM>, a throttle <NUM> is located between the most downstream control valve <NUM> and the hydraulic oil tank. The flow of hydraulic fluid through the control valve <NUM> to the hydraulic fluid tank is limited by the throttle <NUM>. The throttle <NUM> then generates control pressure for controlling the regulator <NUM>, that is, control pressure for controlling a discharge amount of the main pump <NUM>. The flow rate of the hydraulic fluid passing through the throttle <NUM> is called the "bleed flow rate". The control pressure sensor <NUM> is a sensor for detecting the control pressure, and outputs a detected value to the controller <NUM>.

In the example illustrated in <FIG>, the throttle <NUM> is a fixed throttle whose opening area does not change. The throttle <NUM> includes a left throttle <NUM> located between the control valve 176A and the hydraulic oil tank in the left center bypass line <NUM>, and a right throttle 18R located between the control valve 176B and the hydraulic oil tank in the right center bypass line 40R. The control pressure sensor <NUM> includes a left control pressure sensor <NUM> for detecting the control pressure generated by the left throttle <NUM>, and a right control pressure sensor 19R for detecting the control pressure generated by the right throttle 18R.

The controller <NUM> controls a discharge amount of the main pump <NUM> by adjusting a swashplate tilt angle of the main pump <NUM> according to the control pressure. Hereafter, a relationship between the control pressure and the discharge amount of the main pump <NUM> is referred to as a "negative control characteristic". The control of the discharge amount based on the negative control characteristic may, for example, be provided by using a reference table stored in a ROM or the like, or may be provided by using a predetermined calculation formula. The controller <NUM> refers, for example, to a reference table representing a predetermined negative control characteristic, and controls the discharge amount of the main pump <NUM> such that the larger the control pressure, the lower the discharge amount of the main pump <NUM>, and the smaller the control pressure, the higher the discharge amount of the main pump <NUM>.

Specifically, as illustrated in <FIG>, when none of the operating devices <NUM> are operated and none of the hydraulic actuators are operated, that is, when the hydraulic system is in a standby mode, the hydraulic fluid discharged by the left main pump <NUM> passes through the control valve 176A to the left throttle <NUM>. Then, when the flow rate of the hydraulic fluid reaching the left throttle <NUM> is a predetermined flow rate or more, the control pressure generated upstream of the left throttle <NUM> reaches a predetermined pressure. When the control pressure reaches the predetermined pressure, the controller <NUM> reduces the discharge amount of the left main pump <NUM> to a predetermined minimum allowable discharge amount. This can prevent the pressure loss (pumping loss) when the discharged hydraulic fluid passes through the left center bypass line <NUM>. This predetermined minimum allowable discharge amount in the standby mode is referred to as a "standby flow rate". The controller <NUM> similarly controls the discharge amount of the right main pump 14R.

On the other hand, when any of the hydraulic actuators of the left traveling hydraulic motor 1A, the turning hydraulic motor 2A, the boom cylinder <NUM>, and the arm cylinder <NUM> is operated, the hydraulic fluid discharged by the left main pump <NUM> flows into the operated hydraulic actuator through the control valve corresponding to the operated hydraulic actuator. Therefore, the flow rate of the hydraulic fluid passing through the control valve 176A to the left throttle <NUM> decreases, and the control pressure generated upstream of the left throttle <NUM> decreases. As a result, the controller <NUM> increases the discharge amount of the left main pump <NUM>, supplies sufficient hydraulic fluid to the operated hydraulic actuator, and ensures the operation of the operated hydraulic actuator. The controller <NUM> similarly controls the discharge amount of the right main pump 14R. The flow rate of hydraulic fluid flowing into the hydraulic actuator is referred to as an "actuator flow rate". In this case, the flow rate of hydraulic fluid discharged by the left main pump <NUM> corresponds to the sum of the actuator flow rate for the left center bypass line <NUM> and the bleed flow rate for the left center bypass line <NUM>. The same applies to the flow rate of hydraulic fluid discharged by the right main pump 14R.

With the configuration described above, the hydraulic system illustrated in <FIG> can reliably supply necessary and sufficient hydraulic fluid from the main pump <NUM> to the hydraulic actuator to be operated when the hydraulic actuator is operated. Also, in the standby mode, the hydraulic system illustrated in <FIG> can reduce wasteful consumption of hydraulic energy. This is because the bleed flow rate can be reduced to the standby flow rate.

Next, referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, details of the switch panel <NUM> will be described. <FIG> is a side view illustrating the switch panel <NUM> and its vicinity. <FIG> is a perspective view illustrating the switch panel <NUM> and its vicinity.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the switch panel <NUM> is disposed on an upper surface of the right console 120B, and is positioned ahead of the right armrest 106B and behind the right operating lever 26B.

In the examples illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, the right armrest 106B is configured to slide back and forth along with the operator's seat <NUM>. The right console 120B, on the other hand, is configured not to slide back and forth. Thus, the length of the right armrest 106B in a longitudinal direction is set such that the front end <NUM> of the right armrest 106B does not cover the switch panel <NUM> from above, even when the right armrest 106B slides furthest forward. However, since the right armrest 106B may be configured not to cover at least the switches 41a to 41f and the dial <NUM> from above, the right armrest 106B may cover a part of the switch panel <NUM> from above.

The switches 41a to 41f arranged on the switch panel <NUM> are assigned functions that are frequently used while the shovel <NUM> is in operation. For example, the switches 41a to 41f include a traveling changeover switch for switching setting statuses, a spare circuit changeover (attachment changeover) switch, and a crane mode changeover switch, in addition to a windshield wiper switch, a light switch, and a windshield washer switch as ON/OFF switches for accessories.

In this manner, the switch panel <NUM> can aggregate, on the right console 120B, the switches 41a to 41f that are frequently used while the shovel <NUM> is in operation. The operator can operate the switch panel <NUM> while keeping his or her arm on the right armrest 106B by releasing his or her hand from the right operating lever 26B and then gripping the right operating lever 26B while placing his or her arm on the right armrest 106B. Thus, the operator can operate the switch panel <NUM> with little change in the posture of his or her upper body. Accordingly, this configuration can improve the operability of the switch panel <NUM>.

The switch panel <NUM> is arranged such that an upper surface <NUM> is inclined with respect to an upper surface TS of the right console 120B. Specifically, the switch panel <NUM> is arranged such that the front end of the upper surface <NUM> is higher than the rear end of the upper surface <NUM>. The tilt angle θ1 of the upper surface <NUM> with respect to the upper surface TS is, for example, approximately <NUM> to <NUM> degrees. This arrangement can improve the viewability of the upper surface <NUM> of the switch panel <NUM> by the operator, which in turn improves the operability of the switch panel <NUM>. The upper surface <NUM> of the switch panel <NUM> may be inclined toward the operator's seat.

The dial <NUM> is approximately cylindrical, and its central axis is the rotary axis A. The dial <NUM> is rotatable about the rotary axis A. The operator can adjust the target speed of the engine <NUM> by rotating the dial <NUM>.

The switch <NUM> is disposed on the upper end surface of the dial <NUM>. The operator can switch the output characteristics of the shovel <NUM> by depressing the switch <NUM> in the direction of the rotary axis A.

The dial <NUM> is arranged such that the rotary axis A is inclined with respect to the upper surface TS of the right console 120B. Specifically, the dial <NUM> is arranged such that the rotary axis A is inclined forward, that is, the front end of the upper surface is lower than the rear end of the upper surface. More specifically, the dial <NUM> is positioned on an approximately cylindrical base <NUM>. The dial <NUM> is arranged such that its upper end face is positioned higher than the front end of the upper surface <NUM> of the switch panel <NUM>. The tilt angle θ2 of the rotary axis A of the dial <NUM> with respect to the upper surface <NUM> of the switch panel <NUM> is, for example, approximately <NUM> to <NUM> degrees.

This arrangement allows the operator to rotate the dial <NUM> by pinching the dial <NUM> with his or her fingers, even while keeping his or her arm on the right armrest 106B. Thus, this arrangement can improve the operability of the dial <NUM>.

In the present embodiment, the switches 41a to 41f of the switch panel <NUM> are assigned functions that are frequently used during operation. On the other hand, the switches <NUM> arranged on the display device <NUM> (See <FIG>. ) are respectively assigned functions that are not frequently used during operation. Specifically, the functions assigned to the switches <NUM> may, for example, be a temperature adjustment function of an air conditioner, an air flow adjustment function of an air conditioner, and a function to switch between an hour meter and a trip meter, respectively.

The rocker switches <NUM> are located below the right armrest 106B on the right console 120B. In the example illustrated in <FIG>, the rocker switches <NUM> are assigned a function that is utilized when a special end attachment such as a grappling tool or lifting magnet is attached to the shovel <NUM>. Also, the rocker switches <NUM> may be assigned a function to switch the traveling alarm on or off or a function to switch an obstacle detection system on or off.

In the present embodiment, respective signals from the dial <NUM>, the switches 41a to 41f, and the rocker switches <NUM> are transmitted to the controller <NUM>. The controller <NUM> then performs various operations based on those signals. However, respective signals from the dial <NUM> and the switches 41a to 41f may be transmitted to a microcomputer disposed in the switch panel <NUM>. In this case, the microcomputer disposed in the switch panel <NUM> may be configured to perform various operations based on these signals, and transmit the operation results to the controller <NUM>. The microcomputer disposed in the switch panel <NUM> and the controller <NUM> may be connected via a CAN.

The switches 41a to 41f of the switch panel <NUM> are located around the dial <NUM>. The switches 41a to 41f are preferably located such that the switches 41a to 41f are not hidden behind the dial <NUM> as viewed by the operator seated in the operator's seat <NUM>.

In the example illustrated in <FIG>, the switches 41a to 41f are located on the left side and front side of the dial <NUM>. Thus, the operator seated in the operator's seat <NUM> can readily see each of the switches 41a to 41f. Thus, such an arrangement can improve the operability of the switches 41a to 41f.

In the example illustrated in <FIG>, the switch 41a is assigned a function to switch a traveling speed, the switch 41b is assigned a function to switch the hydraulic circuit on and off of a special end attachment, and the switch 41c is assigned a function to switch a crane mode on and off. Also, the switch 41d is assigned a function to switch a work light on and off, the switch 41e is assigned a function to switch the windshield wiper on and off, and the switch 41f is assigned a function to eject windshield washer fluid.

The switches 41a to 41f may be configured to include alternate-operation push-button switches or momentary-operation push-button switches.

The switches 41a to 41f are preferably configured to remain protruding from the upper surface <NUM> of the switch panel <NUM> even when they are operated. This is to prevent dust or the like from accumulating in the areas where the switches 41a to 41f are located.

Alternatively, respective surfaces of the switches 41a to 41f may be integrally formed with the upper surface <NUM> of the switch panel <NUM>. For example, each of the switches 41a to 41f may consist of a membrane switch. Since this configuration can eliminate a gap between each of the switches 41a to 41f and the upper surface <NUM>, dust can be prevented from entering the switch panel <NUM> through the gap, and the stability of the operation of the switch panel <NUM> can be improved. Preferably, the switches 41a to 41f and the upper surface <NUM> are made of a material (e.g., silicon) that produces an elastic force when they are pressed. This is to improve the operating feeling of the switches. Also, the surfaces of the switches 41a to 41f may be frosted. This is to prevent the adhesion of dust, etc..

As illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, each of the switches 41a to 41f is configured to include a front portion 49A on the front side of the vehicle and a rear portion 49B on the rear side of the vehicle such that the rear portion 49B protrudes from the front portion 49A with respect to the upper surface <NUM> of the switch panel <NUM>. A smooth curved portion 49C is formed between the front portion 49A and the rear portion 49B of each switch. The curved portion 49C is configured to be in contact with a ball surface of a finger when the operator places his or her finger on the switch to direct his or her fingertip forward. Thus, this configuration can improve the fingering performance of switches 41a to 41f and, in turn, the operability of switches 41a to 41f.

The switches 41a to 41f of the switch panel <NUM> may have illustrations on them that represent the functions assigned to respective switches, and the illustrations may be configured to glow when each switch is on.

In the examples illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, on the upper surface <NUM> of the switch panel <NUM>, indicators 47a to 47f corresponding to the switches 41a to 41f are respectively disposed near the switches 41a to 41f. The indicators 47a to 47f are configured to switch between on and off states according to the operation of the corresponding switch. For example, the indicator 47a is configured to be lit when the associated switch 41a is in the on state, allowing the operator to visually recognize that the switch 41a is in the on state. For example, when the switch 41d to which a function to switch the working light on and off is assigned is in the on state, the indicator 47d corresponding to the switch 41d is lit, and when the switch 41d is in the off state, the indicator 47d is off. The lighting color of the indicators 47a to 47f is orange but may be another color such as blue, red, or yellow. The visual effect of such indicators 47a to 47f is particularly effective when the switches 41a to 41f are adopted to switch between the on and off states every time the switches are depressed, but there is no difference in physical appearance of the switches between the on and off states.

Note that the letter "a" to "f" at the end of the sign of each indicator is the same as the letter at the end of the sign of a corresponding switch. In addition, the number of indicators associated with each switch may be two or more. In the example illustrated in <FIG>, the switch 41e includes two indicators 47e1 and 47e2 associated with the switch 41e. The switch 41e is a windshield wiper switch and is configured such that the operating speed of the windshield wiper is switched between multiple stages according to the number of times the switch 41e is depressed. When the windshield wiper is operated at a low speed, only the indicator 47e1 is lit, and when the windshield wiper is operated at a high speed, both the indicators 47e1 and 47e2 are lit. Thus, the number of indicators or lighting pattern may be desirably set according to the function of the corresponding switch. This enables each of the indicators to more effectively communicate a state of the corresponding switch to the operator.

In addition, the controller <NUM> may be configured to execute different functions in response to different manners in which the switches 41a to 41f are operated. For example, the controller <NUM> may lock the turning motion of the shovel <NUM> when the switches 41a and 41d are long-pressed simultaneously. Alternatively, the controller <NUM> may cause the display device <NUM> to display information relating to the special end attachment when the switch 41b is long-pressed.

Even after the engine of the shovel <NUM> has stopped, the on state of the switches 41a to 41f may be maintained for a predetermined time. For example, when the switch 41d to which the function to switch the working light on and off is assigned is in the on state, and the engine <NUM> is stopped when the working light of the shovel <NUM> is on, the on state of the switch 41d may be maintained for a predetermined time. With this configuration, the shovel <NUM> can keep the working light on for a predetermined time even after the engine <NUM> has stopped. In this case, the working light is not immediately turned off after the engine has stopped, and remains on for a predetermined time. Thus, the shovel <NUM> can ensure the viewability of the surroundings when the operator exits the cabin <NUM>, thereby improving safety.

In the present embodiment, as illustrated in <FIG>, a lower switch 48ar, a right switch 48cr, and a left switch 48dr are disposed on the surface of the upper end of the right operating lever 26B on the rear side of the vehicle. The lower switch 48ar is positioned below the right switch 48cr and the left switch 48dr. The right switch 48cr and the left switch 48dr are arranged to be at the same height. The right switch 48cr is located on the right side as viewed from the operator's seat <NUM>, and the left switch 48dr is located on the left side as viewed from the operator's seat <NUM>. A trigger switch 48br is located on a front surface of the right operating lever 26B facing the front side of the vehicle.

The lower switch 48ar, the right switch 48cr, and the left switch 48dr are located such that the operator can operate these switches with his or her right-hand thumb while gripping the right operating lever 26B with his or her right hand. The trigger switch 48br is located such that the operator can operate the switch with his or her right-hand index or middle finger while gripping the right operating lever 26B with his or her right hand.

The lower switch 48ar, the trigger switch 48br, the right switch 48cr, and the left switch 48dr (Hereafter collectively referred to as a "right lever switch") are switches that typically switch between the on and off states every time the switches are depressed, but do not differ in physical appearance between the on and off states. However, each of the right lever switches may be a switch that differs in physical appearance between the on and off states (e.g., a switch that is kept pressed in).

Also, each of the right lever switches is typically formed integrally with the surface of the right operating lever 26B. For example, each of the right lever switches may consist of a membrane switch. Since this configuration eliminates the gap between each of the right lever switches and the surface of the right operating lever 26B, dust and the like can be prevented from entering the right operating lever 26B through the gap. That is, this configuration can improve the dust resistance of the right operating lever 26B.

As in the right operating lever 26B, the left operating lever 26A may be provided with a lower switch 48al, a trigger switch 48bl, a right switch 48cl, and a left switch 48dl (Hereafter collectively referred to as a "left lever switch") (see <FIG>). The respective arrangements of the left lever switches are similar to the respective arrangements of the right lever switches described with reference to <FIG>. In the following, the right lever switch and the left lever switch may be collectively referred to as a lever switch.

In the example illustrated in <FIG>, the lower switch 48ar of the right operating lever 26B is assigned a one-touch idle function (a function to switch the engine <NUM> of the shovel <NUM> to idle operation), and the trigger switch 48br is assigned to a window washing function (a function to eject windshield washer fluid and activate the windshield wiper). The right switch 48cr is assigned to a hands-free calling function (which enables calls using a wirelessly connected smartphone), and the left switch 48dr is assigned a function to turn the air conditioner on or off.

A horn function is assigned to a lower switch 48al of the left operating lever 26A, and a mute function such as a radio <NUM> is assigned to a trigger switch 48bl. A function to switch the alarm sound on and off is assigned to the right switch 48cl (e.g., the alarm sound output when an obstacle is detected), and a function to switch the camera image displayed on the display device <NUM> is assigned to the left switch 48dl. The function assigned to the right switch 48cl may be the switches 41a to 41f of the switch panel <NUM> or the rocker switches <NUM>.

Thus, the switches 41a to 41f of the switch panel <NUM> may have functions different from those of the left and right lever switches. Also, the functions of each of the left lever switch and the right lever switch may be changed, for example, by operation through the display device <NUM>.

With the above configuration, the operator of the shovel <NUM> can operate the switches 41a to 41f disposed near the right operating lever 26B. And, the switches 41a to 41f are assigned functions that are frequently used while the shovel <NUM> is in operation. Thus, the operator can perform frequently used functions while operating the shovel <NUM> by simply depressing the switches 41a to 41f with his or her right hand gripping the right operating lever without changing the posture of his or her upper body.

On the other hand, since the switches 41a to 41f are disposed near the right operating lever 26B, the operator of the shovel <NUM> may accidentally touch the switches 41a to 41f. For example, the operator may bring part of his or her arm into contact with the switch <NUM> when he or she tilts the right operating lever 26B forward to lower the boom <NUM>. In this case, the controller <NUM> changes the output characteristics of the shovel <NUM> in response to the depressing of the switch <NUM>.

To prevent such an incidence, in the present embodiment, the controller <NUM> is configured not to execute the function assigned to the switch when the operating device <NUM> is operated, even in a case of the switch being operated.

For example, the controller <NUM> is configured not to execute the function assigned to the operated switch when the right operating lever 26B is operated, even in a case of any of the switches 41a to 41f and the switches <NUM> arranged in the switch panel <NUM> being operated.

Specifically, the controller <NUM> determines whether or not the operating device <NUM> is operated based on the output of the operating content detection device. More specifically, the controller <NUM> determines whether or not at least one of the left operating lever 26A or the right operating lever 26B is operated based on the output of the operation pressure sensor <NUM> at every predetermined control period.

When the controller determines that the operating device <NUM> is operated, the controller <NUM> is configured not to execute functions according to signals from the switches 41a to 41f and the switch <NUM>. Specifically, the controller <NUM> changes the value of a first flag stored in a predetermined area of the RAM from "<NUM>" to "<NUM>" when the controller determines that the operating device <NUM> is operated. The first flag is a variable representing a state of the operating device <NUM>. The value of <NUM> for the first flag indicates that the operating device <NUM> is not operated, and the value of <NUM> for the first flag indicates that the operating device <NUM> is operated.

The controller <NUM> may change the value of the first flag from "<NUM>" to "<NUM>" when the controller determines that at least one of the left operating lever 26A, the right operating lever 26B, the left traveling pedal 26C, the right traveling pedal 26D, the left traveling lever 26E, and the right traveling lever 26F is operated. Alternatively, the controller <NUM> may change the value of the first flag from "<NUM>" to "<NUM>" when the controller <NUM> determines that only the right operating lever 26B is operated. That is, the controller <NUM> may be configured not to change the value of the first flag from "<NUM>" to "<NUM>" even when the operating levers other than the right operating lever are operated. This is because there is no switch placed near the operating devices other than the right operating lever that can be mis-operated.

In addition, when the controller <NUM> determines that the operating device <NUM> is operated, the controller <NUM> may be configured not to change the value of the first flag from "<NUM>" to "<NUM>" until a predetermined time (e.g., <NUM> second) has elapsed from the time of the determination. This is so as to, for example, prevent the output characteristics of the shovel <NUM> from being erroneously changed according to a signal from the switch <NUM> received when the right operating lever 26B momentarily returns to the neutral position. This is because the signal from the switch <NUM> in this case may be generated, for example, by the operator's arm accidentally touching the switch <NUM>.

Then, when the controller <NUM> receives a signal from at least one of the switches 41a to 41f and the switch <NUM>, the controller <NUM> refers to the value of the first flag. Then, when the value of the first flag is "<NUM>", the controller <NUM> determines that the operating device <NUM> is not operated and executes the function corresponding to the signal. On the other hand, when the value of the first flag is "<NUM>", the controller <NUM> determines that the operating device <NUM> is operated and does not execute the function corresponding to the signal.

Next, referring to <FIG>, an example of a process of determination (Hereafter, referred to as a "determination process") in which the controller <NUM> determines whether or not to execute a function assigned to a switch when receiving a signal from that switch will be described. <FIG> is a flowchart illustrating an example of the determination process. The controller <NUM> repeatedly executes this determination process at every predetermined control period.

First, the controller <NUM> determines whether or not the engine <NUM> is running (step ST1). In the example illustrated in <FIG>, the controller <NUM> determines whether the engine <NUM> is running based on an output from the ignition switch <NUM>. This is to determine whether or not the hydraulic actuator is in a movable state. Specifically, when the controller <NUM> determines that the engine <NUM> is running, the controller <NUM> can determine that the operator is able to move the hydraulic actuator. In addition, when the controller <NUM> determines that the engine <NUM> is not running, the controller <NUM> can determine that the operator is unable to move the hydraulic actuator.

Instead of determining whether or not the engine <NUM> is running, the controller <NUM> may determine whether or not the line L1 is blocked by the gate lock valve <NUM>. This is because the controller <NUM> can determine that the hydraulic actuator can be moved when the controller <NUM> can determine that the line L1 is not blocked by the gate lock valve <NUM>.

When the controller <NUM> determines that the engine <NUM> is not running (NO in step ST1), the controller <NUM> ends the present determination process.

When the controller <NUM> determines the engine <NUM> is running (YES in step ST1), the controller <NUM> determines whether or not there is an input from the switch (step ST2). In the example illustrated in <FIG>, the controller <NUM> determines whether or not the switch <NUM> has been depressed. The controller <NUM> may determine whether or not any of the switches 41a to 41f has been depressed.

When the controller <NUM> determines that there is no input from the switch (NO in step ST2), the controller <NUM> ends the present determination process.

When the controller <NUM> determines that there is an input from the switch (YES in step ST2), the controller <NUM> determines whether or not the operating lever is operated (step ST3). In the example illustrated in <FIG>, the controller <NUM> determines whether or not at least one of the left operating lever 26A or the right operating lever 26B is operated based on the output of the operation pressure sensor <NUM>.

Specifically, the controller <NUM> determines whether or not the operating lever is operated based on the pilot pressure acting on the pilot port in each of the control valves <NUM> to <NUM>, i.e., the pilot pressure generated by the operating lever. When the operating lever is an electric operating device, the controller <NUM> can determine whether or not the operating lever is operated based on an electric signal corresponding to an operating amount of the operating lever.

More specifically, the controller <NUM> determines that the operating lever is operated when the controller <NUM> determines that at least one of the left operating lever 26A or the right operating lever 26B is operated by a predetermined operating amount or more. The controller <NUM> may determine that the operating lever is operated when the controller <NUM> determines that at least one of the left operating lever 26A, the right operating lever 26B, the left traveling pedal 26C, the right traveling pedal 26D, the left traveling lever 26E, and the right traveling lever 26F is operated by the predetermined operating amount or more. Alternatively, when the switch that is likely to be mis-operated is located only near the right operating lever 26B, the controller <NUM> may determine that the operating lever is operated only when the controller <NUM> determines that the right operating lever 26B is operated by the predetermined operating amount or more. That is, the controller <NUM> may be configured not to determine that the operating lever is operated when any of the operating levers other than the right operating lever 26B is operated.

Alternatively, when the controller <NUM> utilizes a first flag, which is a variable representing a state of the operating device <NUM>, the controller <NUM> may determine whether or not the operating lever is operated based on the value of the first flag. In this case, the controller <NUM> determines that the operating lever is operated when the value of the first flag is <NUM>, and determines that the operating lever is not operated when the value of the first flag is <NUM>.

Then, when the controller <NUM> determines that the operating lever is operated (YES in step ST3), the controller <NUM> does not perform the operation corresponding to the input from the switch (step ST4). In the example illustrated in <FIG>, the controller <NUM> ignores the input from the switch <NUM> without performing the operation corresponding to the input from the switch <NUM>, i.e., a function assigned to the switch <NUM> in response to the input from the switch <NUM>.

On the other hand, when the controller <NUM> determines that the operating lever is not operated (NO in step ST3), the controller <NUM> performs an operation corresponding to the input from the switch (step ST5). In the example illustrated in <FIG>, the controller <NUM> performs the operation corresponding to the input from the switch <NUM>, that is, the function assigned to the switch <NUM> in response to the input from the switch <NUM>.

This determination process enables the controller <NUM> to prevent the function assigned to the switch <NUM> from being executed when, for example, the operator's arm accidentally touches the switch <NUM> while the operator is operating the right operating lever 26B. Specifically, the controller <NUM> can prevent the output characteristics of the shovel <NUM> from being accidentally changed when the operator's arm accidentally touches the switch <NUM> while the operator operates the right operating lever 26B to lower the boom <NUM>.

Since this reliably prevents the function assigned to the switch <NUM> from being accidentally executed, the switch <NUM> may be installed at a position at which the operator's arm can reach when the operator is operating the right operating lever 26B. That is, the shovel <NUM> configured to perform a determination process can reduce the distance between the right operating lever 26B and the switch <NUM> while preventing the function assigned to the switch <NUM> from being executed by mistake, thereby improving the operability of the switch <NUM>. The operator can operate the switch <NUM> in almost the same posture as when operating the right operating lever 26B. The same applies to switches 41a to 41f.

Note that when the controller <NUM> determines that the operating lever is operated, the controller <NUM> may maintain such a determination result for a predetermined time (e.g., <NUM> second). Specifically, even when the controller <NUM> can determine that "the operating lever is not operated" based on the output of the operation pressure sensor <NUM> or the electrical signal corresponding to the operating amount of the operating lever, the controller <NUM> may maintain a determination result representing that "the operating lever is operated" until a predetermined time has elapsed after the determination representing that "the operating lever is operated" is made. In other words, when a predetermined time has elapsed since the controller <NUM> has made the last determination representing that "the operating lever is operated", the controller <NUM> can determine that "the operating lever is not operated" based on the output of the operation pressure sensor <NUM> or the electrical signal corresponding to the operating amount of the operating lever. This is to prevent the function assigned to the switch from being executed in response to the signal from the switch being received when the operating lever momentarily returns to the neutral position.

As described above, the shovel <NUM> according to the embodiment of the present invention includes a lower traveling body <NUM>, an upper turning body <NUM> turnably mounted on the lower traveling body <NUM>, a cabin <NUM> as a cab mounted on the upper turning body <NUM>, an operator's seat <NUM> installed in the cabin <NUM>, an operating lever installed in the cabin <NUM>, and a switch installed in the cabin <NUM>. The switch is configured to be disabled when the operating lever is operated. In the example illustrated in <FIG>, the switch <NUM> is configured to be disabled when at least one of the left operating lever 26A or the right operating lever 26B is operated. A state in which the switch <NUM> is disabled means, for example, that a function assigned to the switch <NUM> is not executed even when the switch <NUM> is depressed. The dial <NUM>, which is another example of the switch, may also be configured to be disabled when at least one of the left operating lever 26A or the right operating lever 26B is operated. A state in which the dial <NUM> is disabled means, for example, that a target speed of the engine <NUM> does not change even though the dial <NUM> is rotated. In this manner, the enabled and disabled states of the switch <NUM> or the like can be switched according to the state of the operating device <NUM>.

In addition, a configuration in which the switch is disabled when the operating lever is operated may be provided as a function capable of switching on and off (a mis-operation preventing function). The on and off switching acting as the mis-operation preventing function may be executed through, for example, a setting screen displayed on the display device <NUM>. In this configuration, when the mis-operation preventing function is off, the switch is not disabled even while the operating lever is operated, and when that switch is operated, the function assigned to the switch is executed. On the other hand, when the mis-operation preventing function is on, the switch is disabled while the operating lever is operated, and even when that switch is operated, the function assigned to the switch will not be executed. The on and off setting of the mis-operation preventing function may be configured to be selectable for each switch.

In addition, the mis-operation preventing function may be configured not to be on when one of the operating devices <NUM> (e.g., the left operating lever 26A) is operated, but the mis-operation preventing function may be configured to be on when another one of the operating devices <NUM> (the right operating lever 26B) is operated, or the mis-operation preventing function may be set as such, through the setting screen.

Also, as described above, the dial <NUM> has neither a scale nor a mark to identify the present level. Thus, when the dial <NUM> is disabled, the operator who sees the dial <NUM> will not be confused even when the arm or clothing of the operator touches the dial <NUM> to unintentionally rotate the dial <NUM>. This is because a situation does not arise in which the level represented by a scale or mark is the first level even when the actual level is the 10th level. That is, when the operator sees the dial <NUM>, he or she does not get information that can identify the present level.

The switch that is disabled when at least one of the left operating lever 26A or the right operating lever 26B is operated may include, for example, all of the switches 41a to 41f illustrated in <FIG>. Alternatively, the switch that is disabled when at least one of the left operating lever 26A or the right operating lever 26B is operated may include some of the switches 41a to 41f. That is, the shovel <NUM> may include a switch that is not disabled even when at least one of the left operating lever 26A or the right operating lever 26B is operated. An emergency stop switch is an example of the switch that is not disabled. The lever switch is another example of the switch that is not disabled. In addition, the switch that is not disabled may be a switch such as a rocker switch <NUM> (e.g., the switches <NUM>, etc. arranged on a display device <NUM>) other than the switches 41a to 41f located on the switch panel <NUM>. This is because such a switch is located at a position difficult to make contact with the operator's arm. Alternatively, the shovel <NUM> may be configured such that when at least one of the left operating lever 26A or the right operating lever 26B is operated, only at least one of the dial <NUM> or the switch <NUM> with which the operator's arm is most likely to make contact is disabled and other operating parts such as other switches remain enabled.

This configuration results in a close positioning of the switch <NUM> and the right operating lever 26B. That is, the switch <NUM> is located within a range (Hereafter referred to as a "reachable range AZ". ) in which the operator's arm can reach when the operator is operating the right operating lever 26B. In other words, the switch <NUM> need not be located outside the reachable range AZ. This is to ensure that the function assigned to the switch <NUM> is prevented from being executed unintentionally, even when the operator's arm accidentally touches the switch <NUM>. As a result, this configuration can improve the operability of the switch <NUM>. In the configuration where the switch <NUM> is located outside the reachable range AZ, the operator who gripped the right operating lever 26B with his or her right hand is required to move his or her right arm significantly to operate the switch <NUM>. In contrast, in the configuration where the switch <NUM> is located within the reachable range AZ, the operator can operate the switch <NUM> with little movement of his or her right arm. The same applies to the switches 41a to 41f.

<FIG> and <FIG> illustrate an example of the reachable range AZ. <FIG> is a top view illustrating the switch panel <NUM> and its vicinity. <FIG> is a side view illustrating the switch panel <NUM> and its vicinity. In <FIG> and <FIG>, the reachable range AZ is a three-dimensional spatial region that is preset to encompass an arm range BZ. The arm range BZ is a three-dimensional spatial region that is preset as a region where a right arm of the operator seated in the operator's seat <NUM> is positioned. In <FIG> and <FIG>, for clarity, the reachable range AZ is represented by a dashed line, and the arm range BZ is represented by a dot-dash line.

In the examples illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, the reachable range AZ and the arm range BZ are ranges that are similar to each other. However, the reachable range AZ and the arm range BZ may be ranges that are dissimilar to each other.

The switch, which is disabled when the operating lever is operated, may be a switch within the reachable range AZ. In this case, the switches outside the reachable range AZ may be configured not to be disabled even when the operating lever is operated. Also, as described above, the switch within the reachable range AZ may include switches that are not disabled even when the operating lever is operated, such as an emergency stop switch and lever switches.

The switch, which is disabled when the operating lever is operated, is typically located on the console. In the following, the switch located on the console may be referred to as a console switch. The console is typically located on the side of the operator's seat <NUM>. In the example illustrated in <FIG>, the switch <NUM>, which is disabled when the operating lever is operated, is located on the right console 120B. The right console 120B is located on the right side of the operator's seat <NUM>.

Whether or not the operating lever is operated is typically determined by a controller such as the controller <NUM>.

Also, the switch, which is disabled when the operating lever is operated, is typically a switch used to change the engine speed. In the example illustrated in <FIG>, the switch <NUM>, which is disabled when the operating lever is operated, is a switch used to switch the output characteristics of the shovel <NUM>.

The shovel <NUM> typically has a traveling lever. The traveling lever is typically located in the cabin <NUM>. In the examples illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, the traveling lever includes a left traveling lever 26E and a right traveling lever 26F. The switch, which is disabled when the operating lever is operated, may be configured to be enabled when the traveling lever is operated but the operating lever is not operated.

A state in which a switch is enabled means, for example, that when the switch is depressed, a function assigned to that switch is executed. In this case, the operator of the shovel <NUM> can execute the function assigned to the switch 41a (e.g., a function to switch driving speeds) while driving the shovel <NUM> by, for example, depressing the switch 41a while operating the traveling lever.

Also, the shovel <NUM> typically has a traveling pedal. The traveling pedal is typically installed in the cabin <NUM>. In the examples illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, the traveling pedal includes a left traveling pedal 26C and a right traveling pedal 26D. The switch, which is disabled when the operating lever is operated, may be configured to be enabled when the operating lever is not operated, even in a case of the traveling pedal being operated. In this case, the operator of the shovel <NUM> can execute a function (e.g., a function to switch driving speeds) assigned to the switch 41a while causing the shovel <NUM> to travel by, for example, depressing the switch 41a while stepping on the traveling pedal with his or her foot.

When a switch to be disabled is operated when at least one of the left operating lever 26A or the right operating lever 26B is operated, the controller <NUM> may be configured to disable the switch, and then report that the switch has been operated. That is, the controller <NUM> may be configured to inform the operator of the shovel <NUM> that the switch has been operated. For example, the controller <NUM> may be configured to inform the operator that the switch has been operated and that the function assigned to the switch will not be executed, by at least one of displaying a message on the display device <NUM>, outputting a voice message, outputting an alarm sound, etc. Alternatively, the controller <NUM> may be configured to output necessary information such that the operator can recognize which switch has been operated when at least one of the left operating lever 26A or the right operating lever 26B is operated.

The present embodiment has been described above with reference to specific examples, however, the present invention is not limited to these specific examples. These specific examples to which a person skilled in the art has made appropriate design changes are also included in the scope of the invention as long as those examples have the features of the present invention. Each element and its arrangement, condition, shape, etc., disposed in each of the aforementioned specific examples are not limited to those illustrated above and may be changed accordingly. The elements contained in each of the aforementioned examples may be combined as appropriate, unless technical inconsistencies arise.

For example, in the above embodiment, the controller <NUM> is configured such that even when the controller <NUM> determines that there is an input from the switch, the controller does not perform an operation corresponding to the input of the switch in response to the controller <NUM> determining that the operating lever is operated. In addition, the controller <NUM> may be configured such that when the controller <NUM> determines that the operation pressure sensor <NUM>, which is an example of an operating content detection device, is faulty, the controller does not perform an operation corresponding to the input of the switch. That is, the controller <NUM> may disable a specific switch. For example, the controller <NUM> determines that the operation pressure sensor <NUM> is faulty when the output of the operation pressure sensor <NUM> indicates an abnormal value. In this case, the controller <NUM> fixates a target speed of the engine <NUM> to the initial value such that the target speed cannot be adjusted. Even when the controller <NUM> determines that there is an input from the switch <NUM>, the controller <NUM> determines that the operation pressure sensor <NUM> is faulty. Thus, the controller <NUM> does not perform the operation corresponding to the input of the switch <NUM>. That is, the controller <NUM> does not switch the output characteristics of the shovel <NUM>.

When a switch to be disabled is operated after the controller determines that the operating content detection device is faulty, the controller <NUM> may be configured to disable the switch, and inform the operator of the shovel <NUM> that the switch has been operated. This configuration is the same as when a switch to be disabled is operated when at least one of the left operating lever 26A or the right operating lever 26B is operated.

The controller <NUM> may also determine that the operating lever is operated when the controller determines that the operator is gripping the operating lever. In this case, the controller <NUM> may determine whether the operator is gripping the operating lever based on the output of an electrostatic sensor installed on the surface of the operating lever or the output of a camera installed in the cabin <NUM> (including the operating lever within the imaging range). That is, "whether or not the operating lever is operated" may be determined based on the output of the operation pressure sensor <NUM> or a sensor that detects the tilt angle of the operating lever, or based on the output of an electrostatic sensor or a camera, etc. That is, "whether or not the operating lever is operated" may be determined by determining "whether or not the operating lever is gripped". The controller <NUM> may then determine whether or not to disable the switch based on the determination result.

In the above embodiment, the switches 41a to 41f are assigned functions different from those assigned to the switches <NUM>, but may be assigned functions the same as those assigned to the switches <NUM>.

In addition, the switch panel <NUM> may be configured such that its upper surface <NUM> is flush with the upper surface of the right console 120B. The dial <NUM> may be configured such that its upper end surface and the upper surface of the right console 120B are parallel to each other.

Also, in the above embodiment, the shovel <NUM> is configured to be operated by an operator seated in the operator's seat <NUM> in the cabin <NUM>. However, the shovel <NUM> may be a remotely operated shovel. <FIG> is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a construction system <NUM> that includes a shovel <NUM> acting as a remotely operated shovel. As illustrated in <FIG>, the construction system <NUM> includes a shovel <NUM>, a management device <NUM>, and a support device <NUM>. The construction system <NUM> is configured to support construction with one or more shovels <NUM>.

The information acquired by the shovel <NUM> may be shared with a manager and other shovel operators, etc., through the construction system <NUM>. The number of the shovels <NUM>, the number of management devices <NUM>, and the number of support devices <NUM> that constitute the construction system <NUM> may each be one, or two or more. In the example illustrated in <FIG>, the construction system <NUM> includes one shovel <NUM>, one management device <NUM>, and one support device <NUM>.

The management device <NUM> is typically a fixed terminal device, such as a server computer (so-called cloud server) installed in a management center or the like outside a construction site. The management device <NUM> may be, for example, an edge server set at a construction site. The management device <NUM> may also be a portable terminal device (e.g., a laptop computer terminal, a tablet terminal, or a mobile terminal such as a smartphone).

The support device <NUM> is typically a portable terminal device, such as a laptop computer terminal, a tablet terminal or a smart phone carried by a worker at a construction site. The support device <NUM> may be a portable terminal carried by an operator of the shovel <NUM>. The support device <NUM> may be a fixed terminal device.

At least one of the management device <NUM> or the support device <NUM> may be provided with a monitor and a remote-control operating device. In this case, an operator using the management device <NUM> or the support device <NUM> may operate the shovel <NUM> while using the remote-control operating device. The remote-control operating device is communicatively connected to the controller <NUM> mounted on the shovel <NUM> through, for example, a wireless communication network such as a near field communication network, a mobile communication network, or a satellite communication network. The remote-control operating device may be configured to communicate directly with the controller <NUM> mounted on the shovel <NUM>.

In addition, various information images (e.g., image information representing the surroundings of the shovel <NUM>, various setting screens, etc.) displayed on a display device <NUM> installed in the cabin <NUM> may be displayed by a display device connected to at least one of the management device <NUM> or the support device <NUM>. The image information representing the surroundings of the shovel <NUM> may be generated based on a captured image of a spatial recognition device (e.g., a camera or LIDAR) attached to the shovel <NUM>. Thus, a manager using the management device <NUM> or an operator using the support device <NUM> can remotely operate the shovel <NUM> or make various settings relating to the shovel <NUM> while checking the surroundings of the shovel <NUM>.

For example, in the construction system <NUM>, the controller <NUM> of the shovel <NUM> may transmit various information to at least one of the management device <NUM> or the support device <NUM>. In this case, the controller <NUM> may transmit an image captured by the spatial recognition device to at least one of the management device <NUM> or the support device <NUM>. In addition, the controller <NUM> may transmit information relating to at least one of the shovels <NUM>, such as data on the operation of the shovel, data on the posture of the shovel <NUM>, and data on the posture of the excavator attachment, to at least one of the management device <NUM> or the support device <NUM>. Thus, the manager using the management device <NUM> or the operator using the support device <NUM> can obtain information relating to the shovel <NUM>.

Thus, the construction system <NUM> allows information relating to the shovel <NUM> to be shared with the manager and other shovel operators, etc..

As illustrated in <FIG>, the communication device mounted on the shovel <NUM> may be configured to transmit and receive information to and from a communication device T2 installed in a remote control room RC via wireless communication. In the example illustrated in <FIG>, the communication device mounted on the shovel <NUM> and the communication device T2 are configured to transmit and receive information via a 5th generation mobile communication line (<NUM> line), an LTE line, a satellite line, etc..

In the remote control room RC, a remote controller 30R, a sound output device A2, an indoor imaging device C2, a display device RP, the communication device T2, etc., are installed. The remote control room RC is also equipped with an operator's seat DS where an operator OP, who operates the shovel <NUM> remotely, is seated.

The remote controller 30R is an arithmetic unit (electronic circuit) that performs various operations. In the example illustrated in <FIG>, the remote controller 30R, like the controller <NUM>, includes a computer including a CPU, a RAM, and a ROM. Various functions of the remote controller 30R are provided, for example, by the CPU executing a program stored in the ROM.

The sound output device A2 is configured to output sound. In the example illustrated in <FIG>, the sound output device A2 is a speaker and is configured to reproduce sounds collected by a sound collector (Not illustrated. ) attached to the shovel <NUM>.

The indoor imaging device C2 is configured to image inside the remote control room RC. In the example illustrated in <FIG>, the indoor imaging device C2 is a camera installed inside the remote control room RC and configured to image the operator OP seated in the operator's seat DS.

The communication device T2 is configured to control wireless communication with the communication device attached to the shovel <NUM>.

In the example illustrated in <FIG>, the operator's seat DS has a similar structure to that of the operator's seat <NUM> installed in the cabin <NUM> of a normal shovel. Specifically, a left console is located on the left side of the operator's seat DS, and a right console is located on the right side of the operator's seat DS. A left operating lever is located at a front part of the left console, and a right operating lever is located at a front part of the right console. A traveling lever and a traveling pedal are arranged in front of the operator's seat DS. In addition, a switch panel <NUM>, which includes a dial <NUM> and switches 41a to 41f, is located at the top center of the right console. The dial <NUM> is provided with a switch <NUM>. Each of the left operating lever, the right operating lever, the traveling lever, the traveling pedal, and the dial <NUM> constitutes an operating device 26T.

The operating device 26T is equipped with an operation sensor 29T configured to detect an operating content of the operating device 26T. The operation sensor 29T is, for example, an inclination sensor that detects an inclination angle of the operating lever or an angle sensor that detects a rocking angle of the operating lever around a rocking axis. The operation sensor 29T may include other sensors such as a pressure sensor, a current sensor, a voltage sensor, or a distance sensor. The operation sensor 29T outputs information relating to the operating content of the detected operating device 26T to the remote controller 30R. The remote controller 30R generates an operation signal based on the received information and transmits the generated operation signal to the shovel <NUM>. The operation sensor 29T may be configured to generate an operating signal. In such a case, the operation sensor 29T may output the operation signal to the communication device T2 without going through the remote controller 30R.

The display device RP is configured to display information relating to the surroundings of the shovel <NUM>. In the example illustrated in <FIG>, the display device RP is a multi-display consisting of nine monitors arranged in three vertical rows and three horizontal columns, configured to display a state of the space in front, to the left, and to the right of the shovel <NUM>. Each monitor is a liquid crystal monitor or an organic EL monitor. However, the display device RP may consist of one or more curved monitors, or may consist of a projector.

The display device RP may be a display device wearable by the operator OP. For example, the display device RP is a head-mounted display, and may be configured to transmit and receive information to and from the remote controller 30R via wireless communication. The head-mounted display may be wired to the remote controller. The head-mounted display may be a transparent head-mounted display or a non-transparent head-mounted display. The head-mounted display may be a monocular head-mounted display or a binocular head-mounted display.

The display device RP is configured to display an image that enables the operator OP in the remote control room RC to view the surroundings of the shovel <NUM>. That is, the display device RP displays an image such that even though the operator is in the remote control room RC, he or she can check a situation around the shovel <NUM> as if he or she were in the cabin <NUM> of the shovel <NUM>.

Claim 1:
An operating device for a shovel (<NUM>), the shovel (<NUM>) including a lower traveling body (<NUM>) and an upper turning body (<NUM>) turnably mounted on the lower traveling body (<NUM>), the operating device comprising:
an operating lever (26B);
a switch (<NUM>) installed within reach of an operator when the operator is operating the operating lever (26B); and
a controller (<NUM>, 30R) configured to disable the switch (<NUM>) when the operator is operating the operating lever (26B).