Work machine

Abstract

The invention provides an electric work machine which can easily ensure the configuration space of two charging connectors even when the electric work machine has a small structure and carries a large-capacity battery unit. This work machine is provided with: an electric motor driven by electric power output from a battery unit; and two charging connectors that supply power to the battery cells. The two charging connectors are arranged in parallel in the same direction on the side of a cover provided on the side of the machine chamber so as to be openable and closable in the machine chamber in a machine chamber in which the battery cells are accommodated, and are arranged in an inclined direction with respect to the cover.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a working machine. Background Art

[0002] Electric work machines equipped with multiple charging ports for supplying power to battery cells have been proposed. For example, the electric excavator disclosed in Patent Document 1 has two charging ports: a normal charging port and a quick charging port, located on the side of the cab of the upper swing structure.

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2023-134163

[0004] In the electric excavator of Patent Document 1, the two charging ports are arranged facing sideways (for example, leftward), so that a large space for arranging the two charging ports in the left-right direction of the machine body is required.

[0005] Meanwhile, in recent years, the use of larger battery cells in small electric excavators has been gaining momentum. In small electric excavators, where the space for various devices within the upper slewing structure (particularly the machinery compartment) is limited, increasing the size of the battery cells reduces the available space within the machinery compartment, making it difficult to secure space for two charging ports. In this regard, the structure of Patent Document 1, which requires a larger left-right space for two charging ports, leaves room for improvement. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide an electric working machine that can easily secure space for arranging two charging connectors even when the machine has a compact structure and is equipped with a large-capacity battery unit.

[0007] The working machine involved in one aspect of the present invention is a working machine having an electric motor driven by electric power output from a battery unit, wherein the machine is also provided with two charging connectors for supplying electric power to the above-mentioned battery unit. The above-mentioned two charging connectors are arranged side by side in the same direction on the side of a cover provided in an openable and closable manner on the side of the above-mentioned machine room in a machine room that accommodates the above-mentioned battery unit, and are arranged in an inclined direction relative to the above-mentioned cover.

[0008] An electric working machine can be realized that can easily secure space for arranging two charging connectors even when the machine has a compact structure and is equipped with a large-capacity battery unit. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] Figure 1 It is a side view showing a schematic structure of a hydraulic excavator which is an example of a working machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0010] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of the hydraulic excavator as seen from the oblique front.

[0011] Figure 3 It is a block diagram schematically showing the configuration of the electrical system and the hydraulic system of the hydraulic excavator.

[0012] Figure 4 It is a perspective view showing an enlarged right hood of the hydraulic excavator.

[0013] Figure 5 It is a perspective view showing the structure inside the machine room of the hydraulic excavator.

[0014] Figure 6 It is a top view showing the structure inside the above-mentioned machine room.

[0015] Figure 7 This is a perspective view showing an enlarged view of the right hood of the hydraulic excavator and another example of arrangement of charging connectors and the like inside the machine room.

[0016] Figure 8 It is a perspective view showing the structure near the charging connector in the machine room.

[0017] Figure 9 It is a plan view showing the structure near the charging connector in the machine room.

[0018] Description of Reference Numerals

[0019] 1…Hydraulic excavator (working machine); 44…Machine room; 44R…Right hood (side); 44a…Land; 51…Battery unit; 61…Electric motor; 67…System controller (controller); 68…Charging stop switch; 81…Fuse box; 82a…Communication connector; NT…Charging connector; NT1…First charging connector; NT2…Second charging connector. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] The following describes embodiments of the present invention based on the drawings.

[0021] 〔1. Operating machinery〕

[0022] Figure 1 It is a side view showing a schematic structure of a hydraulic excavator (electric excavator) 1 which is an example of an electric working machine according to the present embodiment. Figure 2 This is a perspective view of the hydraulic excavator 1 as seen from the oblique front. The hydraulic excavator 1 includes a lower traveling structure 2 , a working machine 3 , and an upper revolving structure 4 .

[0023] Here, directions are defined as follows. The direction facing forward, as viewed by the operator (operator, driver) seated in the driver's seat 41a of the upper revolving body 4, is defined as the front, and the opposite direction is defined as the rear. Therefore, when the upper revolving body 4 is not rotating relative to the lower traveling body 2 (rotation angle 0°), the front-to-back direction of the upper revolving body 4 coincides with the forward and backward directions of the lower traveling body 2. Furthermore, from the perspective of the operator seated in the driver's seat 41a, the left side is defined as "left," and the right side is defined as "right." Furthermore, the direction of gravity, which is perpendicular to the front-to-back and left-to-right directions, is defined as the up-down direction. The upstream side of this direction of gravity is defined as "up," and the downstream side is defined as "down." In the accompanying drawings, the hydraulic excavator 1 is illustrated with the upper revolving body 4 not rotating relative to the lower traveling body 2. In the accompanying drawings, the symbol "F" indicates the front, the symbol "B" indicates the rear, the symbol "L" indicates the left, the symbol "R" indicates the right, the symbol "U" indicates the top, and the symbol "D" indicates the bottom.

[0024] The lower vehicle body 2 includes a pair of left and right crawler tracks 21 and a pair of left and right travel motors 22. Each travel motor 22 is a hydraulic motor. The left and right travel motors 22 drive the left and right crawler tracks 21, respectively, to move the hydraulic excavator 1 forward and backward. The lower vehicle body 2 also includes a scraper blade 23 for leveling land and a scraper blade cylinder 23a that rotates the scraper blade 23 vertically.

[0025] The work machine 3 includes a boom 31, an arm 32, and a bucket 33. By independently driving the boom 31, arm 32, and bucket 33, excavation operations such as sand and soil can be performed. Furthermore, an attachment can be appropriately installed in place of the bucket 33. For example, if a crusher is installed as an attachment, crushing or dismantling operations can be performed using the crusher.

[0026] The boom 31, the arm 32, and the bucket 33 are driven by a boom cylinder 31a, an arm cylinder 32a, and a bucket cylinder 33a, respectively. The boom cylinder 31a, the arm cylinder 32a, and the bucket cylinder 33a are composed of hydraulic cylinders.

[0027] The base end of the boom 31, that is, the end of the boom 31 on the opposite side to the arm 32, is swingably connected to the front end 42a of the revolving frame 42 via the boom bracket 34. That is, the hydraulic excavator 1 of this embodiment has a boom swing function in which the boom 31 swings left and right with the front end 42a as the starting point. A swing cylinder 42b (see FIG. 4B ) is provided on the revolving frame 42. Figure 2 The swing cylinder 42b is composed of a hydraulic cylinder, and swings the boom 31 by extending and retracting.

[0028] The boom 31 has a shape that is bent forward at an obtuse angle, and rotates in the vertical direction by the extension and contraction of the boom cylinder 31a. The boom cylinder 31a is located on the back side (rear side) of the boom 31. The base end of the boom cylinder 31a is supported by the boom bracket 34, and the front end is connected to the bent portion of the boom 31 and can be freely extended and retracted. The boom 32 is rotatably connected to the front end of the boom 31. The boom 32 rotates in the vertical direction by the extension and contraction of the boom cylinder 32a. The base end of the boom cylinder 32a is supported by the boom 31, and the front end is connected to the base end of the boom 32 and can be freely extended and retracted. The bucket 33 is connected to the front end of the boom 32 via a connecting rod mechanism 35, and rotates in the vertical direction by the extension and contraction of the bucket cylinder 33a. The base end of the bucket cylinder 33a is supported by the boom 32, and the front end is connected to the connecting rod mechanism 35 and can be extended and retracted.

[0029] A work light 31P is mounted on the right side surface of the boom 31 (see Figure 2 When the operator is performing work using the hydraulic excavator 1 , he or she can operate a work light switch (not shown) as needed to light up the work light 31P and illuminate the area ahead.

[0030] The upper revolving structure 4 is located above the lower traveling structure 2 and is arranged to be rotatable relative to the lower traveling structure 2. A driving section 41, a revolving frame 42, a revolving motor 43, and a machine room 44 are arranged on the upper revolving structure 4. The upper revolving structure 4 is driven by the revolving motor 43, which is a hydraulic motor, and rotates via a revolving bearing (not shown).

[0031] The driving unit 41 is provided with a driving seat 41a. An operating unit 41b is provided around the driving seat 41a. The operating unit 41b includes a lever, a button, a pedal, etc. for operation. The operator sits on the driving seat 41a and operates the operating unit 41b, thereby operating the hydraulic actuator 73 (see Figure 3 ) is driven. This enables the lower traveling body 2 to travel, the working machine 3 to perform excavation work, the upper rotating body 4 to rotate, and the like.

[0032] The machine room 44 is arranged below the driver's seat 41a. A battery unit 51 is arranged in the machine room 44. The battery unit 51 is composed of, for example, a lithium-ion battery cell. The battery unit 51 stores electric power and supplies the electric motor 61 (see FIG. 1 ). Figure 3 ) supplies electric power to drive the electric motor 61. That is, the hydraulic excavator 1 of this embodiment includes the electric motor 61 driven by the electric power output from the battery unit 51.

[0033] A lead battery 52 is also provided in the machine room 44. The lead battery 52 outputs a low voltage (eg, 12V) DC voltage. The output from the lead battery 52 is supplied as a control voltage to, for example, a system controller 67 (see Figure 3 ) and other supplies.

[0034] The upper slewing body 4 further includes a rollover protection system frame 45. The rollover protection system frame 45 is a protective device provided to protect the operator in the event that the hydraulic excavator 1 accidentally falls over. The rollover protection system frame 45 is formed by connecting a left frame 45L and a right frame 45R via a connecting frame 45B.

[0035] The left frame 45L and the right frame 45R are connected to the left and right front lower portions of the floor 41F of the cab 41, respectively. The left and right frames 45L and 45R have an L-shaped structure, extending upward from the floor 41F side and then curving rearward. The connecting frame 45B extends horizontally, with one end and the other end connected to the rear ends of the left and right frames 45L and 45R, respectively. The curved and connecting portions of each frame are formed in a curved manner.

[0036] The left frame 45L and the right frame 45R each include an upper frame 45U and a lower frame 45D. The upper frame 45U and the lower frame 45D are connected via a hinge 45a so as to be relatively rotatable. For example, when the hydraulic excavator 1 is loaded onto a platform such as a truck for transportation, the upper frame 45U is rotated forward relative to the lower frame 45D using the hinge 45a as a fulcrum. This allows the ROPS frame 45 to be folded, minimizing the maximum height of the hydraulic excavator 1 during transportation.

[0037] The rollover protection system frame 45 is provided with a display light 46. The display light 46 is composed of, for example, a rotating light, but may also be composed of an LED light. The display light 46 includes a first display light 46a and a second display light 46b. The first display light 46a and the second display light 46b are arranged side by side in the left-right direction on the connecting frame 45B of the rollover protection system frame 45 (see FIG. Figure 2 ).

[0038] When the operator sits on the driver's seat 41a and wears the seat belt, the first indicator light 46a lights up green. Thus, an operator working around the hydraulic excavator 1 can recognize that the operator is wearing the seat belt by looking at the first indicator light 46a.

[0039] When the operator begins working with the hydraulic excavator 1, they can illuminate the second indicator light 46b by operating a beacon switch (not shown) provided on the operation box 400. Furthermore, when the operator completes the work, they can extinguish the second indicator light 46b by operating the beacon switch. This allows operators near the hydraulic excavator 1 to identify whether or not work is being performed on the hydraulic excavator 1 by observing the lighting status of the second indicator light 46b. The operation box 400 is mounted upright on the front portion of the floor 41F of the cab 41.

[0040] A communication unit 47 is mounted on the ROPS frame 45. The communication unit 47 is provided for purposes of obtaining position information of the vehicle (hydraulic excavator 1) by receiving radio signals transmitted from positioning satellites and for wireless communication with an external remote monitoring device.

[0041] 〔2.Structure of electrical and hydraulic systems〕

[0042] Figure 3 1 is a block diagram schematically showing the configuration of the electrical system and the hydraulic system of the hydraulic excavator 1. In this figure, for convenience, the paths through which current or electrical signals flow are shown by solid lines, and the paths through which hydraulic oil flows are shown by dotted lines.

[0043] The hydraulic excavator 1 is equipped with an electric motor 61, a standard charger 62, an inverter 63, a PDU (Power Distribution Unit) 64, a junction box 65, a DC-DC converter 66, and a system controller 67 within the machine compartment 44. The system controller 67 is comprised of an electronic control unit, also known as an ECU (Electronic Control Unit), and performs electrical control of various components of the hydraulic excavator 1.

[0044] The electric motor 61 is driven by electric power supplied from the battery unit 51 via the junction box 65 and the inverter 63. The electric motor 61 is composed of a permanent magnet motor or an induction motor.

[0045] The standard charger 62 (also referred to as a power supply) converts the AC voltage supplied from the first external power supply 101, serving as an external power source, via the first cable CA1 into a DC voltage. A first charging connector NT1, serving as the charging connector NT, is located within the machine compartment 44. The first charging connector NT1 is a standard charging connector (also referred to as an inlet).

[0046] By connecting the first cable CA1 to the first charging connector NT1, AC voltage from the first external power supply 101 is supplied to the normal charger 62 via the first cable CA1 and the first charging connector NT1. The voltage (DC voltage) output from the normal charger 62 is supplied to the battery unit 51 via the junction box 65 and the PDU 64. This charges the battery unit 51. This charging of the battery unit 51 is referred to as normal charging.

[0047] A second charging connector NT2, serving as a charging connector NT, is also located within the machine compartment 44. Second charging connector NT2 is a connector (socket) for rapid charging. The AC voltage supplied from a second external power supply 201 for rapid charging is converted to a DC voltage by a rapid charger 202. Rapid charger 202 is connected to the base end of a second cable CA2.

[0048] By connecting the distal end of second cable CA2 to second charging connector NT2, DC voltage from quick charger 202 is supplied to battery unit 51 via second cable CA2, second charging connector NT2, junction box 65, and PDU 64. This charges battery unit 51. This charging of battery unit 51 is referred to as quick charging.

[0049] In this embodiment, the first cable CA1 is a general term for the wiring section where the harness extends and the plug provided at the distal end of the wiring section (the portion that plugs into the first charging connector NT1). Similarly to the first cable CA1, the second cable CA2 is a general term for the wiring section and the plug.

[0050] Thus, the hydraulic excavator 1 of this embodiment is equipped with two charging connectors NT for supplying power to the battery unit 51. The two charging connectors NT include a first charging connector NT1 and a second charging connector NT2. The first charging connector NT1 is a connector to which the first cable CA1 is connected. The first cable CA1 is an example of a charging cable for charging the battery unit 51. The second charging connector NT2 is a connector to which the second cable CA2 is connected. The second cable CA2 is another example of the aforementioned charging cable. The details of the arrangement of the two charging connectors NT in the hydraulic excavator 1 will be described later.

[0051] The inverter 63 converts the DC voltage supplied from the battery unit 51 into an AC voltage and supplies it to the electric motor 61. This rotates the electric motor 61. The supply of AC voltage (current) from the inverter 63 to the electric motor 61 is based on a rotation command output from the system controller 67.

[0052] The PDU 64 is a battery control unit that controls the internal battery relays to control the input and output of the battery unit 51. The junction box 65 includes a charger relay, an inverter relay, fuses, etc. The voltage output from the battery unit 51 is supplied to the inverter 63 via the PDU 64 and the junction box 65.

[0053] The DC-DC converter 66 steps down the high voltage (e.g., 300 V) DC voltage supplied from the battery unit 51 via the PDU 64 and the junction box 65 to a low voltage (e.g., 12 V). The voltage output from the DC-DC converter 66 is supplied to the system controller 67 and the like, similarly to the output from the lead battery 52.

[0054] A charge stop switch 68 is provided in the machinery compartment 44. This switch receives an operator's instruction to stop charging. When the operator operates (e.g., presses) the charge stop switch 68, the system controller 67 controls the PDU 64 or junction box 65 based on the stop signal from the charge stop switch 68, thereby shutting off the charging path to the battery unit 51. This allows the operator to safely disconnect the first cable CA1 from the first charging connector NT1. Furthermore, the operator can safely disconnect the second cable CA2 from the second charging connector NT2. Thus, the hydraulic excavator 1 is equipped with a charge stop switch 68.

[0055] Furthermore, if at least one of first charging connector NT1 and second charging connector NT2 has an interlock function, charge stop switch 68 may also have a function of releasing the interlock when operated. The interlock is a mechanical lock applied to prevent the charging cable from being removed from the charging connector when the charging cable is inserted into the charging connector.

[0056] The rotating shaft (output shaft) of the electric motor 61 is connected to a plurality of hydraulic pumps 71. The plurality of hydraulic pumps 71 include variable displacement pumps and fixed displacement pumps. Figure 2 In FIG. 1 , only one hydraulic pump 71 is shown as an example. Each hydraulic pump 71 is connected to a hydraulic oil tank 74 .

[0057] When the hydraulic pump 71 is driven by the electric motor 61, the hydraulic oil in the hydraulic oil tank 74 is supplied to the hydraulic actuator 73 via the control valve 72. As a result, the hydraulic actuator 73 is driven. The control valve 72 is a direction switching valve that controls the flow direction and flow rate of the hydraulic oil supplied to the hydraulic actuator 73. The hydraulic actuator 73 includes a hydraulic motor (e.g. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The left and right travel motors 22, the rotary motor 43) and the hydraulic cylinder (eg Figure 1 The boom cylinder 31a, arm cylinder 32a, and bucket cylinder 33a).

[0058] The control valve 72 includes a valve element for adjusting the amount of hydraulic oil discharged to the hydraulic actuator 73. The valve element is connected to an operating unit 41b (e.g., a travel lever) located on the driving unit 41 via a linkage mechanism. Thus, the amount of hydraulic oil discharged from the control valve 72 can be mechanically controlled by operating the operating unit 41b. Alternatively, other control methods, such as a pilot-operated or electromagnetic-operated control system, may be employed for the control valve 72.

[0059] The control valve 72 is located at Figure 1 and Figure 2 The interior of the operation box 400 is shown in FIG.

[0060] 〔3. Regarding the layout of various parts in the machinery room〕

[0061] like Figure 2 As shown, a right hood 44R, which forms the right side wall of the machinery compartment 44, is provided with an openable and closable cover 44a. Cover 44a is provided to fit into an opening 44P that extends through right hood 44R in the left-right direction. Opening 44P is rectangular when viewed from the side, but may also be an elliptical or other shape. Cover 44a is formed in a shape corresponding to opening 44P and fits into opening 44P.

[0062] The cover 44a is, for example, configured to be rotatable so as to be opened upward. In addition, the cover 44a may also be configured to be rotatable in a manner other than opening upward (e.g., opening leftward, opening rightward, opening downward, etc.). Figure 3 ) is arranged on the left side relative to cover 44a, that is, arranged inside machine room 44. Therefore, a worker (or operator) performing charging can open cover 44a by rotating it, thereby accessing the two charging connectors NT inside through opening 44P, that is, can insert the charging cable into charging connector NT.

[0063] Figure 4 FIG1 is a perspective view showing an enlarged representation of the right hood 44R of the hydraulic excavator 1. Figure 4 Omitted Figure 2 The illustration shows the cover 44a. An opening and closing hinge 441 is provided at the lower edge of the opening 44P in the right hood 44R. The lower end of the cover 44a is attached to the right hood 44R via the opening and closing hinge 441. Thus, the cover 44a can be rotated upward and downward via the opening and closing hinge 441.

[0064] A catch 442 is provided on a support member 69 (described later) located inside the machine compartment 44. When the lid 44a is closed, a protrusion (not shown) located on the inner side of the lid 44a (the side where the charging connector NT is located) is gripped by the catch 442, thereby holding the lid 44a in its closed position. To open the lid 44a, simply rotate it upward. In other words, as the lid 44a is rotated, the protrusion simultaneously disengages from the catch 442, allowing the lid 44a to be easily released from its closed position.

[0065] When lid 44a is rotated upward, two charging connectors NT, namely first charging connector NT1 and second charging connector NT2, are exposed through opening 44P, and charging stop switch 68 and fuse box 81 are also exposed.

[0066] Figure 5 It is a perspective view showing the structure inside machine room 44 (particularly the structure near charging connector NT). Figure 6It is a plan view showing the structure inside the machine room 44 . Figure 1 The battery unit 51 shown in FIG. 5 is housed in a housing 510 . The housing 510 includes an upper housing 511 and a lower housing 512 .

[0067] The upper housing 511 includes an upper housing body 511a and an upper housing flange 511b. The upper housing body 511a is formed into a box shape with an open bottom. The upper housing flange 511b extends from the outer peripheral edge of the lower portion of the upper housing body 511a toward the outside of the housing in the front, back, left, and right directions.

[0068] Similarly, the lower shell 512 includes a lower shell body 512a and a lower shell flange (not shown). The lower shell body 512a is formed into a box shape with an upper side open. The lower shell flange extends from the outer peripheral edge of the upper portion of the lower shell body 512a toward the outside of the shell in the front, back, left, and right directions.

[0069] The upper housing body 511a and the lower housing body 512a sandwich the battery cell 51 from above and below, housing the battery cell 51 therein. For example, the upper housing flange 511b and the lower housing flange are fastened together using bolts. Thus, the battery cell 51 is housed within the housing 510. The number of battery cells 51 housed within the housing 510 is not particularly limited and may be one or more.

[0070] like Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the width of the upper shell body 511a in the left-right direction is shorter than that of the lower shell body 512a. In addition, the upper shell body 511a is located to the left of the lower shell body 512a. By such a shape of the shell 510, as shown in FIG. Figure 6 As shown, in a top view, the battery unit 51 is housed within the housing 510, positioned inward of the outer shape of the upper housing body 511a. Furthermore, because the upper housing body 511a is positioned to the left of the lower housing body 512a, a narrow space S exists on the right side of the upper housing body 511a, that is, between the upper housing body 511a and the right hood 44R (above the upper housing flange 511b of the upper housing body 511a, located on the right side). In this embodiment, this space S is used to accommodate the charging connector NT and other components. Specifically, the space S between the battery unit 51 housed within the housing 510 and the side portion of the machinery compartment 44 (the right hood 44R) is used to accommodate the charging connector NT and other components.

[0071] Furthermore, in this embodiment, electrical components such as the lead-acid battery 52 and DC-DC converter 66 are located within the machinery compartment 44 on the left side of the housing 510 (between the housing 510 and the left hood of the machinery compartment 44). Therefore, increasing the capacity of the battery unit 51 (if a larger battery unit 51 is installed) inevitably narrows the aforementioned space S. In this embodiment, by appropriately positioning the charging connector NT, the charging connector NT can be placed even within this narrow space S. This will be described in further detail below.

[0072] (Charging connector configuration)

[0073] like Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, within the machinery compartment 44, above the upper housing flange portion 511b, are located a first charging connector NT1 for normal charging and a second charging connector NT2 for quick charging. The first charging connector NT1 is positioned forward of the second charging connector NT2. Alternatively, the first charging connector NT1 may be positioned rearward of the second charging connector NT2. In other words, the two charging connectors NT are positioned at different locations in the front-to-rear direction within the machinery compartment 44.

[0074] Furthermore, first charging connector NT1 and second charging connector NT2 are located on the left side of cover 44a in machine compartment 44 housing battery unit 51. Specifically, the two charging connectors NT are located to the side of cover 44a, which is openably and closably provided on a side portion of machine compartment 44 (here, right hood 44R).

[0075] Here, in Figure 6 In the top view of FIG, the direction of the first charging connector NT1 is referred to as A1 direction, and the direction of the second charging connector NT2 is referred to as A2 direction. In addition, the direction of the first charging connector NT1 is the direction in which the first cable CA1 is inserted into the first charging connector NT1 (see FIG. Figure 3 ) direction (direction from the end point to the starting point of the insertion direction). In addition, the direction of the second charging connector NT2 is the direction in which the second cable CA2 is inserted into the second charging connector NT2 (refer to Figure 3 ) direction (the direction from the end point to the starting point of the insertion direction). In this embodiment, the A1 direction and the A2 direction are parallel. That is, the two charging connectors NT are arranged side by side in the machine room 44 facing the same direction.

[0076] Furthermore, the term "same direction" here encompasses the same direction in all directions, including front, back, left, right, up, and down. For example, both facing right and front, or both facing left and front, are also included in the "same direction." Thus, for example, if first charging connector NT1 faces right and front, and second charging connector NT2 also faces right and front in a top view, then the two charging connectors NT can be considered to face the same direction. The term "same direction" used below should be interpreted in the same manner.

[0077] And, as Figure 6 As shown, the orientation of first charging connector NT1 (direction A1) is tilted relative to lid 44a. Similarly, the orientation of second charging connector NT2 (direction A2) is also tilted relative to lid 44a. Furthermore, "tilted relative to lid 44a" means that the angle formed by lid 44a with each direction (directions A1 and A2) is an angle other than 0° or 90°. In this way, the two charging connectors NT are arranged at an angle relative to lid 44a. Furthermore, the orientation (the aforementioned angle) of the two charging connectors NT relative to lid 44a can be appropriately set based on the left-right width of space S.

[0078] The two charging connectors NT are supported by support member 69. Support member 69 is attached to upper housing flange portion 511b. This facilitates the placement of the two charging connectors NT within machine compartment 44. Support member 69 is formed, for example, by bending a single flat metal plate, but may also be formed by joining multiple flat metal plates together using welding or other methods.

[0079] As described above, in this embodiment, two charging connectors NT are arranged in the machine compartment 44, facing the same direction and tilted relative to the cover 44a. This allows the two charging connectors NT to be efficiently arranged within the limited, narrow space S to the side of the cover 44a within the machine compartment 44, even when a large-capacity (large) battery unit 51 is housed within the machine compartment 44, without increasing the size of the machine compartment 44 itself. Furthermore, by simply adjusting the orientation of the two charging connectors NT, the two charging connectors NT can be arranged within the limited, narrow space S. This means that even with a compact structure and equipped with a large-capacity battery unit 51, an electric hydraulic excavator 1 can be realized that easily secures space for the two charging connectors NT.

[0080] In particular, Figure 6As shown, in a configuration where two charging connectors NT are arranged between the battery unit 51 and the side of the machinery compartment 44 (right hood 44R), if the battery unit 51 is enlarged, the free space to the sides of the battery unit 51 in the machinery compartment 44 becomes narrow. Therefore, the arrangement method of two charging connectors NT as in this embodiment is particularly effective in a configuration where the two charging connectors NT are arranged between the battery unit 51 and the side of the machinery compartment 44.

[0081] Furthermore, the two charging connectors NT are positioned at different locations in the front-to-back direction. Thus, by appropriately setting the orientation of the two charging connectors NT, as described above, it is easy to efficiently arrange the two charging connectors NT within the limited space S within the machinery compartment 44. Furthermore, when the side cover 44a of the machinery compartment 44 is opened, it is possible to access (and insert a charging cable into) either of the two charging connectors NT aligned in the front-to-back direction.

[0082] (Configuration of charging stop switch)

[0083] like Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, in this embodiment, the charge stop switch 68 is positioned between the first charging connector NT1 and the second charging connector NT2 when viewed from the side. In other words, the charge stop switch 68 is positioned between the two charging connectors NT in the front-to-rear direction. Like the two charging connectors NT, the charge stop switch 68 is supported by a support member 69.

[0084] With the above arrangement of charge stop switch 68, the operator can operate charge stop switch 68 to stop charging regardless of which of the two charging connectors NT is being used for charging. Therefore, compared to, for example, a configuration in which a charge stop switch 68 is provided for each charging connector NT, the operator is less confused about which switch to operate, improving convenience when stopping charging.

[0085] In particular, in this embodiment, if Figure 6 As shown, the charge stop switch 68 is disposed opposite the cover 44a on the side of the machinery compartment 44. Specifically, the charge stop switch 68 is disposed within the machinery compartment 44, facing toward the cover 44a (rightward in this case). While the direction of the charge stop switch 68 is referred to as the A3 direction, the A3 direction is perpendicular to the cover 44a. However, the A3 direction may be slightly tilted (e.g., within 10°) from the perpendicular direction.

[0086] Thus, if the charge stop switch 68 is arranged toward the cover 44a, the operator can simply press the charge stop switch 68 to the left when operating (for example, pressing) the charge stop switch 68. That is, in this case, the operator can easily operate (press) the charge stop switch 68.

[0087] (Configuration of fuse box)

[0088] like Figures 4 to 6 As shown, the support member 69 also supports a fuse box 81. The fuse box 81 is a collection of Figure 3 The box of fuses installed in the wiring (electrical circuit) of the electrical system shown in the figure. When an excessive current exceeding the rated value flows through the circuit due to some abnormality, the fuse melts and disconnects (interrupts) the circuit, thus protecting the electrical equipment and circuits.

[0089] The fuse box 81 is located within the machinery compartment 44, forward of the first charging connector NT1. Furthermore, as described above, the first charging connector NT1 is located forward of the second charging connector NT2. Consequently, the fuse box 81 is located forward of both charging connectors NT2. The hydraulic excavator 1 of this embodiment includes the aforementioned fuse box 81.

[0090] By arranging the fuse box 81 in the machine room 44 as described above, an operator can open the side cover 44a of the machine room 44 and access the fuse box 81 through the opening 44P. This facilitates maintenance such as inspection and replacement of the fuses stored in the fuse box 81, for example, before starting work with the hydraulic excavator 1.

[0091] (Configuration of communication connectors)

[0092] like Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the support member 69 also supports a communication connector 82a. The communication connector 82a is provided at a junction point in the wiring connecting the system controller 67 and electrical components (electrical equipment). In this embodiment, two communication connectors 82a are provided, but the number of communication connectors 82a is not limited to two and may be one, three, or more. At least one communication connector 82a is housed in a communication connector housing 82. The communication connector housing 82 is located, for example, above the fuse box 81.

[0093] When performing maintenance (settings or operation confirmation) on the system controller 67, the operator disconnects the wiring from the communication connector 82a and connects a cable connected to a terminal device such as a personal computer to the communication connector 82a. This enables communication between the terminal device and the system controller 67, allowing maintenance of the system controller 67.

[0094] The communication connector housing 82 (particularly the communication connector 82a) is positioned forward of the first charging connector NT1 within the machinery compartment 44. Furthermore, as described above, the first charging connector NT1 is positioned forward of the second charging connector NT2. Consequently, the communication connector 82a is positioned forward of both charging connectors NT. Thus, the hydraulic excavator 1 of this embodiment includes the communication connector 82a for communicating with the system controller 67.

[0095] By arranging the communication connector 82a as described above in the machine room 44, the maintenance equipment (fuse box 81, communication connector 82a) is gathered near the charging connector NT with good accessibility.

[0096] In particular, Figure 5 As shown, the communication connector 82a is positioned above the fuse box 81. Specifically, the communication connector 82a is vertically aligned with the fuse box 81. This allows equipment requiring maintenance to be compactly and centrally located in front of the two charging connectors NT. Therefore, the vertically aligned arrangement of the communication connector 82a and the fuse box 81 is particularly effective in small hydraulic excavators 1, where these equipment requiring maintenance must be located within a confined space S.

[0097] Furthermore, maintenance on the system controller 67 requires specialized knowledge and is therefore typically performed by service personnel. As described above, when the communication connector 82a (communication connector housing 82) is located above the fuse box 81, it can be positioned, when viewed from the side, inside the upper portion of the cover 44a, i.e., hidden by the right hood 44R. This makes it difficult for ordinary users without specialized knowledge to access the communication connector 82a. This reduces the risk of problems (such as incorrect settings of the system controller 67) arising from maintenance by ordinary users.

[0098] [4. Regarding Alternative Arrangement of Charging Connectors, etc.]

[0099] Figure 7This is an enlarged perspective view showing the right hood 44R of the hydraulic excavator 1 with the cover 44 a omitted from illustration, and illustrates another example of arrangement of the charging connector NT and the like inside the machine room 44 . Figure 8 and Figure 9 They are respectively Figure 7 A perspective view and a plan view of the structure near the charging connector NT are shown in FIG.

[0100] exist Figures 7 to 9 In the example, the direction of the charge stop switch 68 (direction A3) and the direction of the first charging connector NT1 (direction A1) are the same, and the communication connector 82a (communication connector storage portion 82) is provided below the fuse box 81. Figures 1 to 6 The structure is the same as that shown in . The specific description is as follows.

[0101] The charge stop switch 68 is located next to the first charging connector NT1 (in parallel with the first charging connector NT1). The first charging connector NT1 (the other charging connector NT) is located in front of the second charging connector NT2 (the one charging connector NT). Figure 4 etc.

[0102] In such an arrangement, when stopping charging using first charging connector NT1, the operator can immediately find and operate charging stop switch 68 arranged next to first charging connector NT1. This makes it easy for the operator to immediately instruct to stop charging.

[0103] The charge stop switch 68 may be arranged beside the first charging connector NT1 on the opposite side to the second charging connector NT2. Figure 9 In the embodiment, the charge stop switch 68 may be arranged on the left front side of the first charging connector NT1.

[0104] However, since it is easy to instruct to stop charging regardless of which of the two charging connectors NT is used by operating the single charge stop switch 68, it is preferable that the single charge stop switch 68 is disposed between the two charging connectors NT when viewed from the side. Figures 7 to 9 As shown, the charge stop switch 68 is preferably arranged next to the second charging connector NT2 (one charging connector) with respect to the first charging connector NT1 (the other charging connector). Figure 9 As shown, the charge stop switch 68 is preferably arranged on the right rear side of the first charging connector NT1.

[0105] Here, if the direction of the charging connector NT and the direction of the charge stop switch 68 are the same, the direction of inserting the charging cable into the charging connector NT and the direction of pressing the charge stop switch 68 are the same. If the direction of charging (when the cable is inserted) and the direction of charging stop (when the switch is pressed) are made consistent in this way, the operator can perform the work (cable connection work) and operation (pressing the switch) from the same direction at the beginning of charging (insertion of the charging cable into the charging connector NT) and the end of charging (operation of the charge stop switch 68). That is, in this case, it is easy for the operator to perform the charging work and the charge stop operation. Based on this point, as Figure 9 As shown, the charge stop switch 68 is preferably arranged so that it faces the same direction as the two charging connectors NT. For example, it is preferable that the first charging connector NT1 (direction A1), the second charging connector NT2 (direction A2), and the charge stop switch 68 (direction A3) all face the same direction (toward the right front).

[0106] like Figure 8 As shown, the communication connector 82a is arranged below the fuse box 81, but is arranged in parallel in the vertical direction relative to the fuse box 81. Figure 5 The configuration is the same as above. Figure 8 In the embodiment, the equipment requiring maintenance (communication connector 82a and fuse box 81) is also compactly concentrated in front of the two charging connectors NT.

[0107] In particular, in a structure where the communication connector 82a (communication connector accommodating portion 82) is disposed below the fuse box 81, when the cover 44a is opened, Figure 7 As shown, the communication connector 82a is exposed through the opening 44P. Therefore, a service person can easily access the communication connector 82a, and maintenance of the system controller 67 is easy.

[0108] [5. Supplement]

[0109] The hydraulic excavator 1 may also be configured to use a combination of hydraulic equipment such as a hydraulic actuator 73 (eg, a hydraulic motor or a hydraulic cylinder) and electrically driven actuators. Examples of electrically driven actuators include an electric travel motor, an electric cylinder, and an electric swing motor.

[0110] In this embodiment, a hydraulic excavator 1 as a construction machine is used as an example for explanation as a working machine. However, the working machine is not limited to the hydraulic excavator 1 and may be other construction machines such as a wheel loader or a small truck loader. In addition, the working machine may be an agricultural machine such as a combine harvester or a tractor.

[0111] [6. Notes]

[0112] The working machine described in this embodiment can also be expressed as the following supplementary notes.

[0113] The working machine of note (1) is a working machine having an electric motor driven by electric power output from a battery unit, wherein:

[0114] It also has two charging connectors for supplying power to the battery unit.

[0115] The two charging connectors are arranged side by side in the same direction on the sides of a cover provided in an openable and closable manner on a side portion of the machine room in a machine room accommodating the battery unit, and are arranged in an orientation inclined relative to the cover.

[0116] The working machine in Note (2) is composed of the working machine described in Note (1),

[0117] The two charging connectors are arranged between the battery unit and the side portion of the machine room.

[0118] The working machine in Note (3) is composed of the working machine described in Note (1) or (2),

[0119] The two charging connectors are arranged at different positions in the front-rear direction.

[0120] The working machine in Note (4) is composed of the working machine described in Note (3),

[0121] It also includes a charge stop switch that receives a charge stop instruction from the battery unit.

[0122] The charging stop switch is arranged between the two charging connectors in the front-rear direction.

[0123] The working machine of note (5) is composed of the working machine described in note (4),

[0124] The charge stop switch is arranged to face the cover.

[0125] The working machine in Note (6) is composed of the working machine described in Note (3),

[0126] It also includes a charge stop switch that receives a charge stop instruction from the battery unit.

[0127] The charge stop switch is arranged next to (in parallel with) another charging connector that is arranged forward of the other charging connector among the two charging connectors.

[0128] The working machine of note (7) is composed of the working machine described in note (6),

[0129] The charge stop switch is arranged next to the one charging connector on the side of the other charging connector.

[0130] The working machine of note (8) is composed of the working machine described in note (7).

[0131] The charging stop switch is arranged to face the same direction as the two charging connectors.

[0132] The working machine of note (9) is constituted by the working machine described in any one of notes (3) to (8),

[0133] A fuse box is further provided, and the fuse box is arranged in front of the two charging connectors.

[0134] The working machine of note (10) is composed of the working machine described in note (9),

[0135] A communication connector is further provided. The communication connector is arranged in front of the two charging connectors and is used for communicating with a controller of the working machine.

[0136] The working machine of note (11) is composed of the working machine described in note (10),

[0137] The communication connector is arranged in parallel in the vertical direction relative to the fuse box.

[0138] The working machine of note (12) is composed of the working machine described in note (11),

[0139] The communication connector is arranged above the fuse box.

[0140] The working machine of note (13) is composed of the working machine described in note (11),

[0141] The communication connector is arranged below the fuse box.

[0142] As mentioned above, although embodiment of this invention was described, the scope of this invention is not limited to this, and it can be implemented expanding or changing within the range which does not deviate from the summary of this invention.

[0143] Industrial applicability

[0144] The present invention can be used in working machines such as construction machinery and agricultural machinery, for example.

Claims

1. A working machine comprising an electric motor driven by electric power output from a battery unit, characterized in that: It also has two charging connectors for supplying power to the battery unit. The two charging connectors are arranged side by side in the same direction on the sides of a cover provided openably and closably on a side of the machine room that accommodates the battery unit, and are arranged in an orientation inclined relative to the cover.

2. The working machine according to claim 1, characterized in that: The two charging connectors are arranged between the battery unit and the side portion of the machine room.

3. The working machine according to claim 1, characterized in that: The two charging connectors are arranged at different positions in the front-rear direction.

4. The working machine according to claim 3, characterized in that: It also includes a charge stop switch that receives a charge stop instruction from the battery unit. The charge stop switch is arranged between the two charging connectors in the front-rear direction.

5. The working machine according to claim 4, characterized in that: The charge stop switch is arranged to face the cover.

6. The working machine according to claim 3, characterized in that: It also includes a charge stop switch that receives a charge stop instruction from the battery unit. The charge stop switch is arranged next to the other charging connector of the two charging connectors, which is arranged forward of the other charging connector.

7. The working machine according to claim 6, characterized in that: The charge stop switch is arranged next to the one charging connector on the side of the other charging connector.

8. The working machine according to claim 7, characterized in that: The charge stop switch and the two charging connectors are arranged facing the same direction.

9. The working machine according to claim 3, characterized in that: A fuse box is further provided, and the fuse box is arranged in front of the two charging connectors.

10. The working machine according to claim 9, characterized in that: A communication connector is further provided. The communication connector is disposed forward of the two charging connectors and is used for communicating with a controller of the working machine.

11. The working machine according to claim 10, characterized in that: The communication connectors are arranged in parallel in the vertical direction relative to the fuse box.

12. The working machine according to claim 11, characterized in that: The communication connector is arranged above the fuse box.

13. The working machine according to claim 11, characterized in that: The communication connector is arranged below the fuse box.

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