System, method and machine for engine restart by joystick operation

Abstract

A work machine (1) includes: a joystick (22) for controlling movement of the work machine; a lock lever (20) for controlling a hydraulic system of the work machine (1); a display (23) for outputting information to an operator in the work machine (1); and a processing circuit (12). The processing circuitry (12) is configured to: lock the hydraulic system without receiving an input from the locking lever (20); executing an idle stop operation of an engine (11) of the work machine (1); outputting, on the display (23), an instruction instructing the operator to operate the joystick (22) to restart the engine (11) of the work machine (1); detecting a predetermined operation of the joystick (22); executing an engine restart operation under the condition that the predetermined operation of the joystick (22) is detected; and unlocking the hydraulic system without receiving the input from the locking lever (20).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to work machines, and more particularly to work machines having a joystick for controlling engine restarting, and systems, assemblies, and methods thereof. Background Art

[0002] Some types of construction machinery may provide an automatic stop function that may automatically stop the engine under a predetermined automatic stop condition, such as a condition where an operating lever adapted to operate a working actuator is not operated.

[0003] Japanese Patent JP3825289B2 ("JP'289 Patent") describes an engine control device for a working machine that can perform an idle stop operation or a restart operation on an engine without operating a key switch. According to the JP'289 Patent, the engine can be restarted by operating a control lever by an operator of the working machine or by operating a one-touch operation button type switch implemented on the control lever without operating the key switch.

[0004] On the other hand, the construction machine may have a lock lever capable of switching the hydraulic circuit to an operable state or an inoperable state, and the engine may also be stopped by operating the lock lever.

[0005] It is necessary to be able to restart the engine of the work machine when the availability conditions of the control lever and the locking lever and the safety conditions are met. It may also be necessary to restart the engine without pressing a "Push to Start (PTS)" button. Summary of the invention

[0006] According to one aspect, a work machine is described or provided. The work machine may include: a joystick for controlling movement of the work machine; a locking lever for controlling a hydraulic system of the work machine; a display for outputting information to an operator in the work machine; and a processing circuit. The processing circuit may be configured to: lock the hydraulic system without receiving input from the locking lever; perform an idle stop operation of an engine of the work machine; output an instruction on the display instructing the operator to operate the joystick to restart the engine of the work machine; detect a predetermined operation of the joystick; perform an engine restart operation under the condition that the predetermined operation of the joystick is detected; and unlock the hydraulic system without receiving the input from the locking lever.

[0007] In another aspect, a method for a work machine is disclosed or implemented. The method may include: outputting an instruction on a display of the work machine to instruct an operator to operate an operating lever to restart an engine of the work machine, the operating lever controlling movement of the work machine after an idle stop operation; detecting a predetermined operation of the operating lever while a hydraulic system is locked in the absence of a first input to a locking lever, the first input being a first physical input for locking the hydraulic system by the locking lever; performing an engine restart operation; determining that the operating lever is in a neutral position; and locking the hydraulic system in the absence of a second input from the locking lever, the second input being a second physical input for unlocking the hydraulic system by the locking lever.

[0008] And in another aspect, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium is disclosed or provided. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium may include computer-executable instructions, wherein the instructions, when executed by an information processing system of a working machine, cause the information processing system to perform a method, the method comprising: locking a hydraulic system in the absence of a first mechanical input; performing an idle stop operation of an engine of the working machine; determining a predetermined operation of an operating lever in response to output information, the output information being an instruction to instruct an operator to operate the operating lever to restart the engine of the working machine; performing an engine restart operation under the condition of determining the predetermined operation of the operating lever; and unlocking the hydraulic system in the absence of a second mechanical input.

[0009] Other features and aspects of the present disclosure will be apparent from the following description and accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] Figure 1 is a side view of an excavator as an example of a work machine according to one or more embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.

[0011] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a system according to one or more embodiments of the disclosed subject matter, which system can be implemented on a work machine according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0012] Figure 3 is a block diagram of a control system according to one or more embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.

[0013] Figure 4 An exemplary operator interface in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosed subject matter is shown.

[0014] Figure 5 is a flow chart of a method according to one or more embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.

[0015] Figure 6is a flow chart of a method according to one or more embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.

[0016] Figure 7 is a flow chart of a method according to one or more embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.

[0017] Figure 8 is a flow chart of a method according to one or more embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] The present disclosure relates to work machines, and more particularly to work machines having a joystick for controlling engine restart, and systems, assemblies, and methods thereof. In general, embodiments of the disclosed subject matter can implement the work machine, which can lock the hydraulic system by software during idle stop operation regardless of the position of the locking lever, and can also restart the engine by detecting a predetermined operation of the joystick, such as to meet the safety conditions and usability of the work machine.

[0019] Turning to the attached figure, Figure 1 A hydraulic excavator as a working machine 1 according to one or more embodiments of the disclosed subject matter is shown, but the embodiments of the disclosed subject matter are not limited to the hydraulic excavator. With respect to the working machine 1, the upper swing body 2 may be rotatably provided as a machine body on the lower walking body 3 via a swing bearing portion 4. A cab 5 may be installed on one side of the front portion of the upper swing body 2, and a driver's seat, operating levers, foot pedals, and other components may be installed in the cab 5. In addition, a boom 6 for excavation work may be installed on the other side of the front portion of the upper swing body 2. The engine 11 (at Figure 2 ) and a power device such as a hydraulic pump driven by an engine can be installed on the rear of the upper swing body 2 and covered with a power device cover 7.

[0020] Figure 2 In accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosed subject matter, Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a system of a working machine 1 is shown in FIG. Figure 2 As shown, the engine 11 as a power source can be controlled by a controller 12, which can control the start, stop and speed of the engine 11. The start of the engine 11 can be controlled, for example, by a control signal from the controller 12 via a governor controller 13 and a general circuit, which is used to supply power from a battery 14 to a starter motor 15, and the starter motor starts the engine 11 via a starter switch 17. For example, when the working machine 1 is continuously in an idling state for a predetermined time or longer, Figure 2 The controller 12 in the engine 10 can perform an idle stop operation so that the engine 11 can be automatically stopped.

[0021] The hydraulic pump 18 is rotationally driven by the engine 11, and the pressure oil discharged from the hydraulic pump 18 is delivered to various hydraulic actuators (for example, hydraulic cylinders of the arm and bucket installed at the end of the boom 6, and hydraulic motors of the upper swing body 2 and the lower traveling body 3 of the working machine 1) via the actuator circuit 19. By operating the locking lever 20, the hydraulic actuator and the hydraulic motor for the working machine 1 can be controlled by the control signal from the controller 12.

[0022] The locking lever 20 may be a lever for operating a hydraulic system of the working machine 1 . Figure 2 The locking lever 20 shown may be Figure 1 , and the operator of the working machine 1 can move the locking rod 20 from the locking position (i.e., the locked state) to the locking release position (i.e., the unlocked state) by hand. Specifically, the controller 12 can detect the locking release signal through the limit switch 21, and allow the control of the hydraulic actuator to be operated when the locking rod 20 is in the locking release position. On the other hand, when the locking rod 20 is in the locking position, the controller 12 can implement control so that the operation of the hydraulic actuator is stopped. In other words, the controller 12 can control the operation of the hydraulic lock valve so as to activate the hydraulic lock when the locking rod 20 is open (locked state), and release the hydraulic lock when the locking rod 20 is closed (unlocked state) based on the signal from the limit switch 21 as described above.

[0023] Optionally or alternatively, the locking bar 20 may function as a gate bar that prevents an operator from entering or exiting the cab 5 in an unlocked state, whereas the locking bar 20 may allow an operator to enter or exit the cab 5 in a locked state.

[0024] The start switch 17 may be a switch that turns on and off the power supplied to the engine 11 during normal operation. Figure 2 The start switch 17 shown can be Figure 1 . Optionally or alternatively, the start switch 17 may be implemented as a “push to start (PTS)” button, which may require the operator to perform a two-step operation, including rotating the PTS button and then pressing the center of the PTS button, in order to safely start the engine 11. More specifically, the operator may rotate the PTS button from the “OFF” position to the “START” position, and then a message to press the PTS button may be shown on the operator interface 23. In response to the message, the operator may press the center of the PTS button, so that an engine start command signal is sent to the starter motor 15 via the controller 12, and the engine 11 is finally started. Here, it may be useless for the operator to operate the start switch 17 every time the engine 11 is restarted after the idle stop operation.

[0025] The joystick 22 may be a control lever for operating the movement of the working machine 1 , such as the rotation movement of the upper swing body 2 and the driving movement of the lower traveling body 3 . Figure 2 The joystick 22 shown can be Figure 1 As an example, the working machine 1 may include a set of two joysticks 22 for both hands, such as Figure 2 shown.

[0026] In this embodiment, the joystick 22 can also be used to control the restart of the engine 11 by inputting a predetermined operation after the engine is stopped. For example, if the controller 12 detects an input from either of the two joysticks 22 that is greater than 75% (i.e., tilted) for a predetermined amount of time (e.g., one second or more), the controller 12 can determine the input as a predetermined operation. Figures 5 to 8 A specific implementation of restarting the engine 11 by input from the joystick 22 is described.

[0027] The operator interface 23 may be, for example, a control panel implemented on or as a display device, which is operable to display, for example, a graphical user interface (GUI) providing part or all of the operator interface 23. The operator interface 23 may be a touch panel (or may be a portion of a touch panel) for displaying a keyboard and / or selectable content on a screen to receive input from an operator of the work machine 1. According to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter, such an operator interface 23 may be implemented using multiple display devices. In this embodiment, the operator interface 23 may indicate information about the state (or states) of the engine 11 and the hydraulic lock to the operator.

[0028] Note that embodiments of the disclosed subject matter are not limited to Figure 2 Detailed arrangement of work machine 1 is shown. For example, embodiments of the disclosed subject matter may include more elements for operating work machine 1 and controlling the engine stop / restart functionality of work machine 1 .

[0029] Now go to Figure 3 , Figure 3 is a block diagram of a control system 31 according to one or more embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. Figure 3 As illustrated, the control system 31 may include: a controller 38, which may be implemented in or using control circuitry; one or more operator inputs 32; a communication unit 33; a memory 34; one or more displays 35; an audio unit 36; and one or more sensors 37. As used herein, the controller 38 may include only one controller or a plurality of controllers.

[0030] The memory 34 may be operably coupled to the controller 38, and may reside external to the controller 38, such as Figure 3 38, i.e., as part of the controller 38. In general, the memory 34 can receive and store therein data or information related to the operation of the work machine 1. As an example, the memory 34 can receive and store therein setting information for the predetermined operation of the joystick 22.

[0031] The communication unit 33 may be the communication system 31 (or may be a part of the communication system). In this regard, the communication unit 33 may include a transmission circuit that transmits information or data (such as information on the engine status and / or the hydraulic lock status) to the logistics system. Optionally, the communication unit 33 may have a receiving circuit to receive information or data, for example, from the logistics system. In this embodiment, the communication unit 33 may be configured using a communication device (such as a local CAN, a wired or wireless LAN, a communication card for Bluetooth, a router for communication, and a modem for communication).

[0032] The audio unit 36 ​​may include, for example, one or more audio speakers disposed in the cab 5 to output audible information such as an alarm to the operator of the work machine 1. As an example, the audio unit 36 ​​may output an audible alarm that the locking lever 22 is unlocked when the operator leaves the cab 5. For example, the audio unit 36 ​​may output an audible message prompting the operator to move the joystick 22 to restart the engine 11.

[0033] One or more sensors 37 may detect various information of the working machine 1. For example, the one or more sensors 37 may include a position sensor associated with the rotation or swing of the working machine 1, a three-axis acceleration sensor (including an acceleration sensor, a gravity detection sensor, and a fall detection sensor), or a three-axis gyroscope sensor (including an angular velocity sensor and a geomagnetic sensor). The output from the one or more sensors 37 may be fed back to the controller 38. Optionally, information from at least one of the one or more sensors 37 may be displayed on the display 35.

[0034] The operator input 32 may be the start switch 17, the locking lever 20, the joystick 22, and the operator interface 23 (or may be a portion thereof). The operator input to the start switch 17 may be an engine start command signal sent to the controller 38 via the controller 38. Figure 2 The starting motor 15 shown in the figure is used to start the Figure 2 The engine 11 shown. The operator input to the locking lever 20 can be via the controller 38 to Figure 2The actuator circuit 19 shown sends a lock release signal to control the hydraulic lock. The operator input to the joystick 22 can be to control the operation of the work machine 1. For example, the operator input to the joystick 22 can control the rotation or swing of the work machine 1, and can control the engine restart operation, which will be referred to in detail. Figures 4 to 8 The operator input to the operator interface 23 can be realized through a touch panel equipped with the operator interface 23 .

[0035] According to one or more embodiments, at least one of the one or more displays 35 may constitute Figure 2 The operator interface 23 shown is or is part of the operator interface. In this regard, such at least one display 35 may be implemented on a display device operable to display a graphical user interface (GUI). Optionally, one or more displays 35 may output alarms and messages to the operator of the work machine 1, for example, outputting information about the status of the engine 11 and the hydraulic lock to the operator.

[0036] Controller 38 may output control signals to various system components (eg, hydraulic system, electrical system, etc.) to control the movement of work machine 1 in response to operator input 32. Controller 38 may include a CPU, ROM, and RAM. Figure 3 The controller 38 shown may correspond to Figure 2 The controller 12 shown in FIG. Figure 2 Various functions described.

[0037] In an exemplary embodiment, the control system 31 of the working machine 1 or a portion thereof may be implemented using circuits or processing circuits, which may include general-purpose processors, special-purpose processors, integrated circuits, ASICs ("application-specific integrated circuits"), CPUs (central processing units), microprocessing units (MPUs), conventional circuits and / or combinations thereof, which are configured or programmed to perform the disclosed functions. A processor may be considered to be a processing circuit or a circuit that includes transistors and other circuits. A processor may be a programmed processor that executes a program stored in a memory. In the present disclosure, a circuit, unit, or component may be hardware that performs or is programmed to perform the functions described. The hardware may be any hardware disclosed herein or known that is programmed or configured to perform the functions described. When the hardware is a processor that can be considered to be a type of circuit, the circuit, component, or unit may be a combination of hardware and software, the software being used to configure the hardware and / or processor.

[0038] Now go to Figure 4 , Figure 4An exemplary operator interface 23 is shown that may be provided on at least one display 35 and may be implemented on a display device operable to display a graphical user interface (GUI) in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.

[0039] The display 35 may display a screen 41 to indicate to the operator of the working machine 1 that the joystick 22 should be moved. Figure 4 In the example shown in FIG. 4 , field 42 may display a warning message to the operator of the work machine 1 .

[0040] Similarly, field 43 may indicate a message prompting the operator of work machine 1 to move joystick 22 to restart the engine during an idle-stop operation.

[0041] Optionally, screen 41 may include a menu button 46 to display menu items.

[0042] Optionally, as Figure 3 As shown, the display 35 may be equipped with a touch panel so that the operator of the working machine 1 can input setting information and commands corresponding to the fields 42 to 46 to the controller 38 via the screen 41 through the touch panel of the display 35 .

[0043] Note that embodiments of the disclosed subject matter are not limited to Figure 4 Specific arrangement of fields and buttons on screen shown. For example, embodiments of the disclosed subject matter may arrange fields and buttons in different locations, or include more fields and buttons on screens for other functions of work machine 1 .

[0044] Industrial Applicability

[0045] As described above, the present disclosure relates to work machines, and more particularly to work machines having a joystick for controlling engine restart, and systems, assemblies, and methods thereof.

[0046] Figures 5 to 8 1 is a flow chart of a method for controlling an idle stop operation and a restart operation of an engine 11 of a work machine 1 according to one or more embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. Some or all of the operations of the method may be performed by or using a controller 12 or a controller 38. In addition, some or all of each of the methods may be performed via a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium (or multiple media) having instructions stored thereon, which, when executed by one or more processors (e.g., of the controller 12), causes the one or more processors to perform some or all of the methods.

[0047] Figure 5 is a flow chart of a method of controlling an idle-stop operation of the engine 11 as discussed above, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.

[0048] When the working machine 1 is in an idle state and the engine 11 is turned on, the process of controlling the idle stop operation may be initiated. Figure 5 As shown, the controller 12 may determine whether a predetermined time has passed since the controller 12 last detected a control input to the work machine 1 (S1). In practice, for example, the predetermined time may be set by the controller 12 to any value in the range of 3 minutes to 60 minutes. Optionally, the controller 12 may detect the control input to the work machine 1 via the sensor 37, such as Figure 3 shown.

[0049] Next, if the determination result of step S1 is "yes", the controller 12 may perform the process of the engine stop suspend mode (S2). More specifically, the engine stop suspend mode may be a preparation process for engine stop, and the controller 12 may start timing from the start of the engine stop suspend mode to the current time as the "engine stop idle time".

[0050] On the other hand, in the case where the determination result in step S1 is "NO" (ie, the controller 12 detects any predetermined control input to the working machine 1 before the predetermined time has elapsed), the process may return to step S1. Figure 5 For example, the predefined control input to be detected in step S1 may be an operation input from the joystick 22 (which is a foot pedal that may be installed in the cab 5 to move the work machine 1 ), or any other physical operation input via the operator input terminal 32 .

[0051] Next, the controller 12 may lock the hydraulic system by software control regardless of the position of the locking rod 20 (S3). Specifically, the controller 12 may send a locking signal of the hydraulic system to the actuator circuit 19 without receiving an input from the locking rod 20. Locking the hydraulic system by software may prevent the working machine 1 from moving unintentionally and ensure safety. More practically, locking the hydraulic system by software may be achieved so that the hydraulic lock solenoid in the pilot circuit of the hydraulic system of the working machine 1 is energized regardless of the operation of the locking rod 20.

[0052] Next, the controller 12 may determine whether the operator cancels the engine stop process (S4). Specifically, if the controller 12 detects an input from the operator indicating cancellation of the idle stop operation via the operator interface 23, the controller 12 may determine to cancel the engine stop process. For example, the determination may be performed by displaying a cancellation message on the operator interface 23 so that the operator of the working machine 1 can select "Cancel" to terminate the idle stop operation.

[0053] Next, if the determination result of step S4 is "No", the controller 12 may determine whether the engine stop idle time has passed (S5). Specifically, the controller 12 may determine whether the engine stop idle time from the starting point of the engine stop suspend mode to the current time exceeds a predetermined time (e.g., 20 seconds).

[0054] Next, in the case where the determination result of step S5 is "yes", the controller 12 may perform engine stop (S6). More specifically, the controller 12 may shut down the engine 11 regardless of the position of the start switch 17. By processing the engine stop at S6, the working machine 1 may be transferred to the "key-on state", and the engine key may indicate "on" when the engine is stopped.

[0055] Next, processing can proceed to Figure 6 The process shown is step S11 (shown as A).

[0056] On the other hand, in the case where the determination result in step S4 is "Yes", the processing may proceed to Figure 5 The process shown is step S7.

[0057] At step S7, the controller 12 may unlock the hydraulic system by software control regardless of the position of the locking lever 20 (S7). Specifically, the controller 12 may send a lock release signal of the hydraulic system to the actuator circuit 19 without receiving input from the locking lever 20. After step S8, the process may resume the operation of the work machine 1. Optionally, the controller 12 may indicate on the operator interface 23 that the state of the work machine 1 has returned to normal operation. Specifically, in normal operation, the engine 11 may be started by a normal starting sequence using a "Push to Start (PTS)" button.

[0058] If the result of the determination in step S5 is "NO" (i.e., the engine stop idling time has not elapsed), the process may return to Figure 5 S4 treated as shown.

[0059] Figure 6 is a flowchart of controlling an engine restart operation of work machine 1 according to one or more embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. Figure 6 The processing shown can be found in reference Figure 5 The processing of engine stop ( S6 ) described above is then performed.

[0060] like Figure 6As shown, the controller 12 may output a message (S11) to the operator of the working machine 1 to operate the joystick 22. More specifically, in step S11, the controller 12 may output guidance information or a message instructing the operator to operate the joystick 22 via the operator interface 23 (such as the display 35). Optionally or alternatively, the controller 12 may output guidance information or a message instructing the operator to operate the joystick 22 via the audio unit 36 ​​(such as a speaker).

[0061] After step S11, the controller 12 may determine whether a predetermined operation performed on the joystick 22 by the operator of the work machine 1 is detected (S12). For example, if the controller 12 detects an input from any one of the two joysticks 22 in a set of greater than 75% (i.e., tilt) for a predetermined amount of time (e.g., one second or longer), the controller 12 may determine the input as a predetermined operation. According to one or more embodiments, only one of the two joysticks 22 may be designated for performing a predetermined operation.

[0062] In the case where the determination result of step S12 is "yes" (i.e., the controller 12 determines that the predetermined operation of the joystick 22 by the operator of the working machine 1 is detected), the controller 12 may start the engine 11 of the working machine 1 (S13). More specifically, the controller 12 may control to send a control signal to the governor controller 13 to start the engine 11. Because the engine 11 was running before the shutdown, the starting of the engine 11 here may be referred to or characterized as restarting the engine 11.

[0063] In the case where the determination result of step S12 is “NO” (ie, the controller 12 determines that the predetermined operation of the joystick 22 by the operator of the working machine 1 is not detected), the processing may return to step S13. Figure 6 More specifically, in the case where the controller 12 can detect another operation performed by the operator that is different from the predetermined operation performed by the operator on the joystick 22, at step S12, the process can return to Figure 6 On the other hand, in the case where the controller 12 does not detect any operation by the operator for a predetermined time at step S12, the controller 12 may control the working machine 1 to stop in order to protect the battery.

[0064] Next, the controller 12 may determine whether the joystick 22 is in the neutral position (S14). Specifically, the controller 12 may detect each position of a set of two joysticks 22 through the sensor 37. More specifically, at step S14, the controller 12 may detect that all operator input terminals 32 (e.g., joysticks 22, foot pedals, etc.) should be in the neutral position to ensure safety.

[0065] In the case where the determination result of step S14 is "yes" (i.e., the controller 12 determines that the joystick 22 is in the neutral position), the controller 12 may unlock the hydraulic system by software (S15). Specifically, the controller 12 may send a lock release signal of the hydraulic system to the actuator circuit 19 without receiving input from the locking lever 20. After step S15, the process may resume the operation of the work machine 1. Optionally, the controller 12 may indicate on the operator interface 23 that the state of the work machine 1 has returned to normal operation.

[0066] In the case where the determination result of step S14 is "No" (i.e., the controller 12 determines that the joystick 22 is not in the neutral position), the controller 12 may output an alarm message to the operator of the working machine 1 (S16). More specifically, in step S16, the controller 12 may output an alarm message or an alarm message indicating that the joystick 22 is not in the neutral position to the operator via the operator interface 23 (such as the display 35). Optionally or alternatively, the controller 12 may output an alarm message or an alarm message indicating that the joystick 22 is not in the neutral position to the operator via the audio unit 36 ​​(such as a speaker). After step S16, the process may return to Figure 6 S14 of the processing shown.

[0067] Figure 7 is a flow chart for controlling a manual engine restart of work machine 1 according to one or more embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. Figure 7 The illustrated process is performed when the operator of the working machine 1 can start the engine 11 under normal circumstances.

[0068] The controller 12 may instruct the operator to move the locking lever 20 to the locked position (S21). More specifically, in step S21, the controller 12 may output guidance information or a message instructing the operator to move the locking lever 20 to the locked position via the operator interface 23 (such as the display 35). Optionally or alternatively, the controller 12 may output guidance information or a message instructing the operator to move the locking lever 20 to the locked position via the audio unit 36 ​​(such as a speaker).

[0069] Next, in response to the input from the operator to the locking lever 20, the controller 12 may instruct the operator to turn on the start switch 17 to restart the engine 11 of the working machine 1 (S22). More specifically, in step S22, the controller 12 may output guidance information or a message instructing the operator to turn on the start switch 17 via the operator interface 23 (such as the display 35). Optionally or alternatively, the controller 12 may output guidance information or a message instructing the operator to turn on the start switch 17 via the audio unit 36 ​​(such as a speaker).

[0070] Next, in response to the input from the operator to the start switch 17, the controller 12 may instruct the operator to move the locking lever 20 to the unlocked position (S23). More specifically, in step S23, the controller 12 may output guidance information or a message instructing the operator to move the locking lever 20 to the unlocked position via the operator interface 23 (such as the display 35). Optionally or alternatively, the controller 12 may output guidance information or a message instructing the operator to move the locking lever 20 to the unlocked position via the audio unit 36 ​​(such as a speaker).

[0071] After step S23, the process may resume operation of work machine 1. Optionally, controller 12 may indicate on operator interface 23 that the state of the work machine has returned to normal operation.

[0072] picture Figure 8 is a flow chart for controlling an engine restart operation of a working machine 1 according to one or more embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. More practically, Figure 8 is a flow chart for controlling an engine restart operation of a work machine 1 , which also includes determining a hydraulic condition, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. Figure 8 The processing shown can be found in Figure 5 During the idle stop operation (S7) described above, the process of determining the position of the lock lever 22 is performed after the process of determining the position of the lock lever 22, as from Figure 6 An alternative embodiment of the process shown.

[0073] like Figure 8 As shown, the controller 12 may output a message to the operator of the working machine 1 to operate the joystick 22 (S31). Step S31 may be the same as Figure 6 More specifically, in step S31, the controller 12 may output guidance information or a message instructing the operator to operate the joystick 22 via the operator interface 23 (such as the display 35). Optionally or alternatively, the controller 12 may output guidance information or a message instructing the operator to operate the joystick 22 via the audio unit 36 ​​(such as a speaker).

[0074] After step S31, the controller 12 may determine whether a predetermined operation performed on the joystick 22 by the operator of the working machine 1 is detected (S32). Step S32 may be related to Figure 6 Step S12 shown is substantially the same. For example, if the controller 12 detects an input from either joystick of a set of two joysticks 22 greater than 75% (i.e., tilt) for a predetermined amount of time (e.g., one second or longer), the controller 12 may determine the input as a predetermined operation. According to one or more embodiments, only one of the two joysticks 22 may be designated for performing a predetermined operation.

[0075] In the case where the determination result of step S32 is "yes" (i.e., the controller 12 determines that the predetermined operation of the joystick 22 by the operator of the working machine 1 is detected), the controller 12 may start the engine 11 of the working machine 1 (S33). More specifically, the controller 12 may control to send a control signal to the governor controller 13 to start the engine 11. Because the engine 11 was running before the shutdown, the starting of the engine 11 here may be referred to or characterized as restarting the engine 11.

[0076] In the case where the determination result of step S32 is “NO” (ie, the controller 12 determines that the predetermined operation of the joystick 22 by the operator of the working machine 1 is not detected), the processing may return to step S33. Figure 8 More specifically, in the case where the controller 12 can detect another operation performed by the operator that is different from the predetermined operation performed by the operator on the joystick 22, at step S32, the process can return to Figure 8 On the other hand, in the case where the controller 12 does not detect any operation by the operator for a predetermined time at step S32, the controller 12 may control the working machine 1 to stop in order to protect the battery.

[0077] Next, the controller 12 may determine whether the state of the engine 11 is running ( S34 ). Specifically, the controller 12 may detect a signal from the engine 11 to check the state of the engine 11 .

[0078] In the case where the determination result of step S34 is "NO" (ie, the controller 12 determines that the state of the engine 11 is not "running"), the process may return to step S34. Figure 8 S31 of the process shown.

[0079] In the case where the determination result of step S34 is "yes" (i.e., the controller 12 determines that the state of the engine 11 is not "running"), the controller 12 may output a message that the system is recovering on the operator interface 23 (S35). More specifically, in step S35, the controller 12 may output an alarm information or message indicating that the system is recovering through the operator interface 23 (such as the display 35). Optionally or alternatively, the controller 12 may output information or a message indicating that the system is recovering via the audio unit 36 ​​(such as a speaker).

[0080] Next, the controller 12 may determine whether the joystick 22 is in the neutral position and whether the predetermined condition of the hydraulic pump pressure is satisfied (S36). Specifically, the controller 12 may detect each position of a set of two joysticks 22 through the sensor 37. More specifically, at step S36, the controller 12 may detect that all operator input terminals 32 (e.g., joysticks 22, foot pedals, etc.) should be in the neutral position to ensure safety. In addition, at step S36, the controller 12 may determine whether the hydraulic pump pressure of the hydraulic system of the working machine 1 exceeds a predetermined value. In this embodiment, the determination of the predetermined condition of the hydraulic pump pressure may be performed to ensure a minimum release pressure of the swing parking brake for the swing upper body 2 when the hydraulic lock is unlocked after the engine restart process.

[0081] In the case where the determination result of step S36 is "yes" (i.e., the controller 12 determines that the joystick 22 is in the neutral position and the predetermined condition of the hydraulic pump pressure is satisfied), the controller 12 may unlock the hydraulic system by software (S37). Specifically, the controller 12 may send a lock release signal of the hydraulic system to the actuator circuit 19 without receiving input from the locking lever 20. After step S37, the process may resume the operation of the working machine 1. Optionally, the controller 12 may indicate on the operator interface 23 that the state of the working machine 1 has returned to normal operation.

[0082] If the determination result of step S36 is “No” (i.e., the controller 12 may determine that the joystick 22 is not in the neutral position for a predetermined period of time (e.g., 0.2 seconds)), the process may proceed to step S38. If the determination result of step S38 is “Yes” (i.e., the controller 12 determines that the joystick 22 is in the neutral position for a predetermined period of time), the process may proceed to step S37.

[0083] In a case where the determination result of step S38 is “NO” (ie, the controller 12 determines that the operating lever 22 is not in the neutral position for the predetermined period of time), the process may return to step S35 .

[0084] As described above, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosed subject matter, processing can also include determining hydraulic conditions to ensure safety.

[0085] Note that embodiments of the disclosed subject matter are not limited to Figures 5 to 8 Specific arrangement of processing steps shown. For example, embodiments of the disclosed subject matter may add more processing steps to control idle stop operations and restarts of engine 11 of work machine 1 .

[0086] As a result of the embodiment, the work machine can perform an idle stop operation and an engine restart operation through a combination of software control of a locking lever for a hydraulic system and a predetermined operation of a joystick to meet safety conditions and usability of the work machine.

[0087] Thus, according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter, a work machine may include: a joystick for controlling movement of the work machine; a locking lever for controlling a hydraulic system of the work machine; a display for outputting information to an operator in the work machine; and a processing circuit. The processing circuit may be configured to: lock the hydraulic system without receiving an input from the locking lever; perform an idle stop operation of an engine of the work machine; output an instruction on the display instructing the operator to operate the joystick to restart the engine of the work machine; detect a predetermined operation of the joystick; perform an engine restart operation under the condition that the predetermined operation of the joystick is detected; and unlock the hydraulic system without receiving the input from the locking lever.

[0088] The working machine can perform an idle stop operation and an engine restart operation through a combination of software control of a locking lever for a hydraulic system and a predetermined operation of a joystick to meet safety conditions and usability of the working machine.

[0089] In addition, under certain conditions, the work machine can restart the engine after an idling stop operation without operating the engine start switch. This helps improve usability.

[0090] Furthermore, the work machine may determine predetermined conditions for the hydraulic pump pressure in addition to the position of the joystick.

[0091] In another aspect, a method for a work machine is disclosed or implemented. The method may include: outputting an instruction on a display of the work machine to instruct an operator to operate an operating lever to restart an engine of the work machine, the operating lever controlling movement of the work machine after an idle stop operation; detecting a predetermined operation of the operating lever while a hydraulic system is locked in the absence of a first input to a locking lever, the first input being a first physical input for locking the hydraulic system by the locking lever; performing an engine restart operation; determining that the operating lever is in a neutral position; and locking the hydraulic system in the absence of a second input from the locking lever, the second input being a second physical input for unlocking the hydraulic system by the locking lever.

[0092] And in another aspect, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium is disclosed or provided. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium may include computer-executable instructions, wherein the instructions, when executed by an information processing system of a working machine, cause the information processing system to perform a method, the method comprising: locking a hydraulic system in the absence of a first mechanical input; performing an idle stop operation of an engine of the working machine; determining a predetermined operation of an operating lever in response to output information, the output information being an instruction to instruct an operator to operate the operating lever to restart the engine of the working machine; performing an engine restart operation under the condition of determining the predetermined operation of the operating lever; and unlocking the hydraulic system in the absence of a second mechanical input.

[0093] Although various aspects of the present disclosure have been specifically shown and described with reference to the above embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various additional embodiments may be conceived by modifying the disclosed machines, components, systems and methods without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Such embodiments should be understood to fall within the scope of the present disclosure as determined based on the claims and any equivalents thereof.

Claims

1. A working machine (1), comprising: a joystick (22) for controlling the movement of the working machine (1); A locking rod (20) for controlling a hydraulic system of the working machine (1); a display (23) for outputting information to an operator in the working machine (1); and A processing circuit (12), the processing circuit being configured to: locking the hydraulic system without receiving input from the locking rod (20), performing an idling stop operation of the engine (11) of the working machine (1), outputting, on the display (23), an instruction for instructing the operator to operate the joystick (22) to restart the engine (11) of the working machine (1), detecting a predetermined operation of the joystick (22), Under the condition that the predetermined operation of the operating lever (22) is detected, an engine restart operation is performed, and The hydraulic system is unlocked without receiving the input from the locking rod (20).

2. The working machine (1) according to claim 1, wherein the processing circuit (12) is further configured to: determine whether the joystick (22) is in a neutral position, and The processing circuit (12) is configured to unlock the hydraulic system without receiving the input from the locking lever (20) when the joystick (22) is in the neutral position.

3. The working machine (1) according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined operation of the joystick (22) is an input to the joystick (22) for a predetermined period of time.

4. The working machine (1) according to claim 1, wherein the processing circuit (12) is configured to: perform a manual engine restart operation, the manual engine restart operation comprising outputting an instruction on the display (23) indicating that the operator turns on a start switch (17) of the engine (11).

5. The working machine (1) according to claim 1, wherein the processing circuit (12) is configured to: send a locking signal to the hydraulic system regardless of the position of the locking rod (20) to lock the hydraulic system without receiving the input from the locking rod (20).

6. The working machine (1) according to claim 1, wherein the processing circuit (12) is configured to: send a lock release signal to the hydraulic system regardless of the position of the locking rod (20) to unlock the hydraulic system without receiving the input from the locking rod (20).

7. The working machine (1) according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined operation of the joystick (22) is to tilt the joystick (22) by a predetermined amount or more for at least a predetermined period of time.

8. The working machine (1) according to claim 1, wherein the working machine (1) comprises a set of two joysticks (22) as the joystick (22), The processing circuit (12) is configured to execute the engine restart operation under the condition that the predetermined operation of at least one of the two joysticks (22) is detected.

9. The work machine (1) of claim 2, wherein the processing circuit (12) is configured to: in addition to determining whether the joystick (22) is in the neutral position, determine whether the hydraulic pump pressure exceeds a predetermined value, and The processing circuit (12) is configured to unlock the hydraulic system without receiving the input from the locking rod (20) under the condition that the joystick (22) is in the neutral position and the hydraulic pump pressure exceeds a predetermined value.

10. The working machine (1) according to claim 9, wherein the predetermined value is set based on a release pressure of a swing parking brake of an upper swing body (2) of the working machine (1).

11. A method for controlling a working machine (1), the method comprising: outputting, on a display (23) of the working machine (1), a command instructing an operator to operate an operating lever (22) to restart an engine (11) of the working machine (1), the operating lever (22) controlling movement of the working machine (1) after an idling stop operation; detecting a predetermined operation of the operating lever (22) while the hydraulic system is locked in the absence of a first input to the locking lever (20), the first input being a first physical input for locking the hydraulic system via the locking lever (20); Perform engine restart operation; Determining that the operating lever (22) is in a neutral position; as well as The hydraulic system is locked in the absence of a second input from the locking rod (20), the second input being a second physical input for unlocking the hydraulic system through the locking rod (20).

12. The method according to claim 11, wherein the predetermined operation of the operating lever (22) is input to the operating lever (22) for a predetermined period of time.

13. The method according to claim 11, further comprising: When it is detected that the operating lever (22) is not in the neutral position, an alarm message is output on the display (23).

14. The method according to claim 11, wherein the operating lever (22) is a joystick (22).

15. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium comprising computer-executable instructions, wherein when the instructions are executed by an information processing system of a work machine (1), the information processing system performs a method comprising: locking the hydraulic system in the absence of a first mechanical input; Executing an idling stop operation of an engine (11) of a working machine (1); determining a predetermined operation of an operating lever (22) in response to output information, the output information being an instruction for an operator to operate the operating lever (22) to restart the engine (11) of the working machine (1); Under the condition of determining the predetermined operation of the operating lever (22), performing an engine restart operation; as well as The hydraulic system is unlocked in the absence of a second mechanical input.

16. The non-transitory computer readable storage medium of claim 15, wherein the first mechanical input is an input by a locking lever (20) for locking the hydraulic system.

17. The non-transitory computer readable storage medium of claim 15, wherein the second mechanical input is an input by a locking lever (20) for unlocking the hydraulic system.

18. The non-transitory computer readable storage medium of claim 15, wherein the operating lever (22) is a joystick (22).

19. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 18, wherein the predetermined operation of the joystick (22) is tilting the joystick (22) by a predetermined amount or more for at least a predetermined period of time.

20. The non-transitory computer readable storage medium of claim 18, wherein the joystick (22) is a set of two joysticks (22), Wherein, the engine restart operation is performed under the condition that the predetermined operation of at least one of the set of two operating levers (22) is determined.

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