Work machine

Abstract

Provided is, for example, a work machine provided with an input device capable of selectively assigning a plurality of functions, in which information indicating the current function assignment can be presented without erroneously recognizing the assigned function and without reducing the visibility of other display information during work. This work machine is provided with: an input device to which any one of a plurality of functions can be selectively allocated; and a display device that displays either a first display screen that includes current function assignment information of the input device or a second display screen that does not include the current function assignment information of the input device, and in the work machine, the control device performs control such that when the first display screen is displayed on the display device, the first display screen is displayed on the display device, the second display screen is displayed on the display device, and the second display screen is displayed on the display device. When the first display screen is displayed on the display device, a process corresponding to the current function assignment of the input device is executed in the presence of an operation of the input device, and when the second display screen is displayed on the display device, a process corresponding to the current function assignment of the input device is not executed in the presence of an operation of the input device. The display screen of the display device is switched from the second display screen to the first display screen.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to a working machine provided with an input device capable of selectively assigning a plurality of prescribed functions. BACKGROUND

[0002] In a working machine such as a hydraulic excavator, a plurality of input devices for changing various settings of the working machine such as engine speed, work mode, and the like are provided around the driver's seat. In recent years, with the multifunctionalization of working machines, the number of these input devices has also tended to increase.

[0003] If the number of input devices increases, the number of parts increases, which is a major cause of increased manufacturing costs. In addition, since the operator needs to find the input device corresponding to the target function from among the plurality of input devices and operate it, the burden on the operator increases, and there is a risk of reducing work efficiency.

[0004] To solve this problem, Patent Document 1 describes an input device capable of selectively assigning an engine operation function for adjusting the speed of an engine and a screen operation function for performing operation of a screen displayed on a display portion. In this way, by concentrating a plurality of functions in one input device, it is possible to suppress an increase in the number of parts.

[0005] In addition, in the input device of Patent Document 1, information indicating the assignment of the function is temporarily displayed on the display portion or displayed on the display portion throughout the entire assignment period according to the case where any one of the functions is assigned, whereby the operator can recognize the function assigned to the input device. PRIOR ART DOCUMENTS PATENT DOCUMENTS

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2022-26000 SUMMARY

[0007] However, in the input device described in Patent Document 1, in the case where information indicating the assignment of the function is temporarily displayed according to the case where any one of the functions is assigned, the operator cannot confirm the assignment of the function at the timing of operating the input device, and it is possible that the operation will be performed in a state where the assigned function is misrecognized.

[0008] On the other hand, in the case where information indicating the assignment of the function is displayed throughout the entire period during which any one of the functions is assigned, since the display area of the display portion is continuously pressed, the visibility of other display information is reduced during work, and work efficiency can be reduced.

[0009] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide, for example, a working machine having an input device that can be selectively assigned multiple functions, in which the assigned functions are not misidentified and the visibility of other displayed information is not reduced during operation, and information indicating the current function assignment is provided to the operator in such circumstances.

[0010] To address the aforementioned issues, the work machine of the present invention comprises: an input device capable of being selectively assigned a plurality of predetermined functions; a display device that switches between displaying a first display screen containing setting information for the functions assigned to the input device and a second display screen not containing setting information for the functions; and a control device that, when the input device receives an operation, performs control for performing processing corresponding to the functions assigned to the input device and control for controlling the display screen displayed on the display device. The work machine is characterized in that, when the first display screen is being displayed on the display device and the input device receives an operation, the control device performs processing corresponding to the functions assigned to the input device; and when the second display screen is being displayed on the display device and the input device receives an operation, the control device does not perform processing corresponding to the functions assigned to the input device, but instead switches the display screen of the display device from the second display screen to the first display screen. Invention Effects

[0011] According to the present invention, the assigned function will not be misidentified, and the visibility of other displayed information will not be reduced during operation. In such cases, the operator can be prompted with information indicating the current function assignment. Attached Figure Description

[0012] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing the appearance of a hydraulic excavator as an example of a work machine. Figure 2 This is a diagram showing the situation inside the driver's cab. Figure 3 This is a diagram showing the appearance of the rotary knob and four buttons of the input device. Figure 4 This is a diagram representing the mode switching of a switch. Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the functions assigned to each switch and their operating instructions. Figure 6 This is an example diagram showing the display screen of a touch monitor. Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the system structure of this embodiment. Figure 8It is a diagram showing the processing flow of the operation processing unit. Figure 9 This is a diagram showing the processing flow of the decision-making section in the operation guide display. Figure 10 This is a diagram showing the processing flow of the decision-making section in the operation guide display. Detailed Implementation

[0013] Hereinafter, examples of input devices in work machinery using the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, relating to embodiments of the present invention.

[0014] The appearance of a hydraulic excavator 1, as an example of a work machine, is as follows: Figure 1 As shown, the hydraulic excavator 1 consists of a multi-joint type front working machine 1A and a body 1B. The front working machine 1A consists of a boom 1a, a stick 1b, and a bucket 1c, which rotate vertically. The body 1B consists of an upper rotating body 1d and a lower traveling body 1e. The upper rotating body 1d is mounted on top of the lower traveling body 1e in a manner that allows it to rotate in the left and right directions. In addition, the upper rotating body 1d has a cab 1f.

[0015] The base end of the boom 1a of the front working machine 1A is supported on the front of the upper rotating body 1d. The boom 1a, stick 1b, bucket 1c, upper rotating body 1d, and lower traveling body 1e are driven by respective actuators (boom hydraulic cylinder 2a, stick hydraulic cylinder 2b, bucket hydraulic cylinder 2c, rotary motor 3d, and left and right traveling motors 3e and 3f). In addition, posture sensors 4a, 4b, 4c, and 4d are installed at each joint of the front working machine 1A and at the joint between the upper rotating body 1d and the lower traveling body 1e to obtain the angle of each rotating part.

[0016] The upper rotating body 1d includes an engine 5, a pump 6, and an electronic control valve 7 for operating the hydraulic excavator 1. The pump 6 is driven by the rotation of the engine 5 and sprays working oil to each actuator. The electronic control valve 7 operates according to the control levers 9a, 9b, 9c, and 9d located in the cab 1f (see reference). Figure 2 The operation input changes the flow rate and direction of the working oil, thereby controlling the actions of each actuator. Additionally, cameras 8a, 8b, and 8c for capturing images of the hydraulic excavator 1 are respectively positioned on the right, rear, and left sides of the upper rotating body 1d. Furthermore, a control device 11 is mounted on the upper rotating body 1d to control the rotational speed (hereinafter referred to as engine speed) of the engine 5.

[0017] Figure 2This diagram shows the interior of the cab 1f. Electrically operated levers 9a, 9b, 9c, and 9d are installed inside the cab 1f. Levers 9a and 9b can be operated in four directions (forward, backward, left, and right), corresponding to the operation of the front work machine 1A and the upper rotating body 1d (including the boom hydraulic cylinder 2a, stick hydraulic cylinder 2b, bucket hydraulic cylinder 2c, and rotary motor 3d). Levers 9c and 9d can be operated in two directions (forward and backward), corresponding to the operation of the left and right travel motors 3e and 3f mounted on the lower traveling body 1e. When the cut-off lever 10 located in the cab 1f is in the unlocked position, the operation of each lever is converted into control command values ​​for each actuator in the control device 11, and the electronic control valve 7 controls the flow rate of the injected working oil according to these control command values. Additionally, a touch monitor 12 is installed at the front right of the cab 1f, capable of confirming / changing various settings of the hydraulic excavator 1 and displaying camera images captured by cameras 8a, 8b, and 8c.

[0018] In addition, an input device 13 is provided on the right side of the driver's seat in the cab 1f, which can perform various settings related to the hydraulic excavator 1. Figure 3 This diagram shows the appearance of the input device 13. The input device 13 consists of a rotary knob 13a and four buttons 13b, 13c, 13d, and 13e. The rotary knob 13a is a mechanism capable of rotating, pressing, and sliding in the up, down, left, and right directions. The buttons 13b, 13c, 13d, and 13e are mechanisms capable of pressing. The input device 13 is configured with multiple modes, and the functions assigned to each switch vary depending on the selected mode.

[0019] Figure 4 This diagram illustrates the switching methods to each mode. In this embodiment, there are four modes: operation mode 401, air conditioning mode 402, audio mode 403, and menu mode 404. If the rotary knob 13a is slid to the left (405) while in operation mode 401, it switches to air conditioning mode 402; conversely, if the rotary knob 13a is slid to the right (406), it switches to audio mode 403. Furthermore, if the rotary knob 13a is slid to the right (406) while in air conditioning mode 402, or slid to the left (405) while in audio mode 403, it switches back to operation mode 401. Additionally, if the rotary knob 13a is pressed (407) while in any of the operation modes 401, air conditioning mode 402, or audio mode 403, the touch monitor 12 displays a menu screen, and the input device 13 switches to menu mode 404 for screen operation.

[0020] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating the functional allocation of the input device 13 in each mode and the operation instructions for each mode. The specific operation of each switch is shown below.

[0021] like Figure 5 As shown in the diagram above, in the various function operation modes 401, frequently used functions such as engine speed adjustment 401A and windshield wiper operation 401D during the operation of the hydraulic excavator 1 are assigned to each switch. Furthermore, in air conditioning mode 402, air conditioning-related settings can be performed; in audio mode 403, audio-related settings can be performed. In menu mode 404, functions used for screen operations within the menu, such as focus movement 404A and previous screen switching 404B, are integrated.

[0022] Additionally, it is displayed on the touch monitor 12 according to the currently selected mode. Figure 5 The operation instructions are shown in the diagram below. By confirming these instructions, the operator can identify the function of each switch and perform the intended operation. Furthermore, regarding menu mode 404, since the display screen of the touch monitor 12 has been switched to the menu screen, the operator can easily identify that the input device 13 has switched to menu mode 404, therefore, the operation instructions may not need to be displayed.

[0023] Examples of the functional assignment of each switch to the input device 13 in each mode are recorded. Operation mode 401: Shuttle knob 13a (rotary operation): Engine speed adjustment (401A, 401a) Rotary knob 13a (press to operate): Switches to menu screen Rotary knob 13a (slide operation): Mode switching of input device 13 Button 13b: Toggles the maximum speed limit of the lower driving vehicle 1e (401B, 401b). Button 13c: Toggle the upper limit of engine speed (401C, 401c) Button 13d: Switches the wiper cycle (401D, 401d). Button 13e: Dispenses cleaning fluid (401E, 401e) Air conditioning mode 402: Shuttle knob 13a (rotary operation): Airflow adjustment (402A, 402a) Rotary knob 13a (press operation): Switches to menu screen Rotary knob 13a (slide operation): Mode switching of input device 13 Button 13b: Inner loop on / off switch (402B, 402b) Button 13c: Automatic air conditioning on / off switch (402C, 402c) Button 13d: Switch between blow outlets (402D, 402d) Button 13e: Air conditioner power on / off switch (402E, 402e) Audio mode 403: Rotary knob 13a (rotation operation): Volume adjustment (403A, 403a) Rotary knob 13a (press operation): Switches to menu screen Rotary knob 13a (slide operation): Mode switching of input device 13 Button 13b: Switch to the previous channel (403B, 403b) Button 13c: Switch to the next channel (403C, 403c) Button 13d: Switch audio source (403D, 403d) Button 13e: Audio power on / off switch (403E, 403E) Menu mode 404: Shuttle knob 13a (rotation operation): Focus movement within the screen (404A) Rotary knob 13a (press to operate): Confirm Shuttle knob 13a (slide operation): Focus movement within the screen (404A) Button 13b: Return to the previous screen (404B) Button 13c: Return to the basic screen (404C) Button 13d: No assignment Button 13e: No assignment

[0024] Figure 6 This diagram illustrates an example of a screen displayed on a touch monitor 12. In this embodiment, the display screen of the touch monitor 12 can be classified into three screens: a basic screen (with operation instructions) 600A, a basic screen (without operation instructions) 600B, and a menu screen 600C, which respectively correspond to the first display screen, the second display screen, and the third display screen of the present invention.

[0025] The basic screen refers to the screen displayed during the operation of the hydraulic excavator 1, which includes the fuel gauge 606 and water temperature gauge 607, which are checked frequently during operation, and an overhead view 608 that combines images captured by a camera. In addition, there are two basic screens: a basic screen 600A that displays operation instructions 609 indicating the function allocation of the input device 13, and a basic screen 600B that does not display operation instructions 609.

[0026] exist Figure 6In the example, in the basic screen 600B where the operation guide 609 is not displayed, in addition to the overhead view 608, the rear camera view 613 is also displayed. The display area of ​​the camera view in the basic screen 600B is larger than that of the camera view in the basic screen 600A, making it easier to confirm the surrounding situation. In this way, even when the operation guide 609 is not displayed, this area can be utilized to improve the visibility of existing displayed information and to add displayed information.

[0027] As an example of a means to switch from a basic screen 600A displaying the operation guide 609 to a basic screen 600B without displaying the operation guide 609, there is a click operation of the operation guide hiding button 612 on the basic screen 600A. Furthermore, a means can be provided that allows the operator to hide the operation guide 609 (switching to the basic screen 600B) at any time using a sliding operation on the operation guide 609 or a setting operation within the menu screen 600C. Additionally, as in this embodiment, the presence or absence of information that is frequently checked during operation, such as the air conditioning status display 610 (on the left side of the operation guide 609) and the audio status display 611 (on the right side of the operation guide 609), can be switched in conjunction with whether the operation guide 609 is displayed.

[0028] On the other hand, in menu screen 600C, various vehicle settings can be confirmed and changed through on-screen operations. Figure 6 The image shows an example of the main menu screen after transitioning to menu screen 600C. When operating on this screen, the focus 622 can be moved to a designated icon among the arranged icons 614-621, and the screen transitions to the next level by pressing the knob to confirm. Thus, within menu screen 600C, various settings can be confirmed and changed by operating the rotary knob 13a and buttons 13b and 13c.

[0029] Furthermore, the menu screen 600C can be configured to allow screen operations via touch, in addition to screen operations based on the input device 13. Also, in this embodiment, all operation instructions 609 within the menu screen 600C are hidden, but it could also be configured to display only specific operation instructions assigned to buttons 13b and 13c, such as returning to the previous screen / returning to the basic screen.

[0030] Figure 7This diagram illustrates the system structure of this embodiment. Each input / output device is connected to the control device 11, which performs various controls, including inputting and outputting information to the operator and issuing motion commands to the vehicle body. The control device 11 is configured to include a motion determination unit 701, a lever operation amount determination unit 702, a control command value determination unit 703, a vehicle body setting management unit 704, a camera image acquisition unit 705, an operation information acquisition unit 706, an operation processing unit 707, a function allocation management unit 708, an operation guidance display determination unit 709, and a display control unit 710. The processing flow of each processing unit will be described below.

[0031] The operability determination unit 701 detects the position of the cutting rod 10 and determines whether the hydraulic excavator 1 can operate. When the cutting rod 10 is in the locked position, the operability determination unit 701 determines that the vehicle body cannot operate, and when the cutting rod 10 is in the unlocked position, it determines that the vehicle body can operate, and outputs the result.

[0032] In the lever operation amount determination unit 702, the operation amount of each lever is determined based on the signals from the levers 9a, 9b, 9c, and 9d, and the information is output. For example, the lever operation amount is determined by setting the neutral position of the lever to 0, using positive and negative signs to represent the operation direction, and using 1 to 100 to represent the operation amount, thereby determining the operation amount of each lever within the range of -100 to 100.

[0033] In the control command value determination unit 703, the control command value for the electronic control valve 7 is determined based on information such as the vehicle body's operational status and the amount of lever operation. The electronic control valve 7 controls the flow rate of the injected working oil according to the control command value, thereby driving each actuator.

[0034] In addition, the vehicle body setting management unit 704 also maintains setting values ​​related to the dynamic characteristics of the vehicle body, such as driving mode and operation mode, and the control command value determination unit 703 determines the control command value based on these vehicle body setting information.

[0035] In the camera image acquisition unit 705, image signals from cameras 8a, 8b, and 8c mounted on the upper rotating body 1d are acquired, and the images are corrected and synthesized as needed, and then output to the display control unit 710.

[0036] In the operation information acquisition unit 706, signals from the input device 13 (rotary knob 13a and buttons 13b, 13c, 13d, 13e) are acquired and converted into operation information for each switch. This operation information includes, for example, the rotation direction and amount of the rotary knob 13a, and the pressed state of each button 13b, 13c, 13d, 13e.

[0037] In the operation processing unit 707, various processes are performed using this operation information. Figure 8 This diagram illustrates the processing flow of the operation processing unit 707. In the operation processing unit 707, firstly, in step 707a, operation information for the shuttle knob 13a and buttons 13b, 13c, 13d, and 13e is acquired. Next, the process proceeds to step 707b, where a determination is made as to whether any operation has occurred. If no operation has been performed, the process returns to step 707a to acquire operation information again.

[0038] If there is a switch operation in step 707b, then proceed to step 707c and obtain information about the display screen currently displayed on the touch monitor 12 from the display control unit 710.

[0039] Next, in step 707d, branch processing is performed according to the type of the current display screen.

[0040] First, if the current display screen is the basic screen 600A containing operation instructions, proceed to step 707e, where the current mode of the input device 13 and the function allocation information of each switch are obtained from the function allocation management unit 708. Furthermore, the function allocation management unit 708 maintains the function allocation information of the switches in each mode of the input device 13 and manages the currently selected mode. Next, a branch corresponding to the operation content is performed in step 707f. In step 707f, if the operation content is rotating the rotary knob 13a or pressing buttons 13b, 13c, 13d, or 13e, then in step 707g, the operation content corresponding to the current function allocation is determined, and a vehicle body setting change request is output to the vehicle body setting management unit 704.

[0041] In step 707f, if the operation involves pressing the rotary knob 13a, then step 707h is initiated, and a request to switch to the menu screen 600C is output to the display control unit 710. Furthermore, the process of switching to the menu screen 600C is a function common to operating mode 401, air conditioning mode 402, and audio mode 403, and therefore does not depend on the current function assignment.

[0042] Additionally, in step 707f, if the operation involves sliding the rotary knob 13a, then step 707i is initiated. Based on the current mode and the direction of the sliding operation, the changed mode is determined, and a mode change request (function allocation change request) is output to the function allocation management unit 708. Furthermore, the correspondence between the sliding operation direction and each mode is as follows: Figure 4 As shown.

[0043] In step 707d, if the current display screen is a basic screen 600B that does not contain operation guidance 609, then proceed to step 707j. Since operation guidance 609 is not displayed in the basic screen, the operator may not be able to identify the function of each switch. Therefore, in step 707j, the processing corresponding to the operation of each switch (processing corresponding to the current function assignment of each switch) is not performed, and the processing of the operation processing unit 707 ends. At this time, in the operation guidance display determination unit 709 (described later), an instruction is output to the display control unit 710 to display operation guidance 609 in the basic screen, and the process of switching the display screen to a basic screen 600A that includes operation guidance 609 is performed. After the display screen switches from a basic screen 600B that does not contain operation guidance 609 to a basic screen 600A that includes operation guidance 609, it is possible to proceed from step 707d to step 707e again by operating the input device 13, and perform processing according to the current function assignment of the input device 13.

[0044] Furthermore, as with the process of converting to menu screen 600C in step 707h, regarding functions common to all modes, since the operator is unlikely to misunderstand the function assignment, it can also be configured to perform the process in the basic screen 600B that does not include operation guide 609.

[0045] Finally, in step 707d, if the current display screen is menu screen 600C, the operator can easily deduce that the input device 13 can be used for screen operations even without operation guidance 609. Therefore, the process proceeds in the order of steps 707k and 707l, performing screen operations corresponding to the operation content of the input device 13, such as focus movement and confirmation. In other words, when the input device 13 is assigned a screen operation function for operating the display screen shown on the touch monitor 12, regardless of whether the display screen of the touch monitor 12 is a basic screen 600A containing operation guidance 609 or a basic screen 600B without operation guidance 609, screen operation processing corresponding to the current function allocation of the input device 13 is performed for the operation of the input device 13.

[0046] Furthermore, the processing of each switch operation described herein is just one example. The function assignment of each operation can also be freely set. For example, the mode of the input device 13 can be changed by sliding the rotary knob 13a up and down, or the menu screen 600C can be switched by using the button 13b.

[0047] Next, the processing of the operation guidance display judgment unit 709 will be explained. Figure 9 and Figure 10 This is a diagram showing the processing flow in the operation guidance display judgment unit 709.

[0048] First, in step 709a, the current display screen information is obtained from the display control unit 710. Next, in step 709b, branch processing corresponding to the current display screen is performed.

[0049] In step 709b, if the current display screen is the basic screen 600B that does not contain the operation guide 609, then proceed to step 709c to obtain the operation information of the input device 13 from the operation information acquisition unit 706. Afterwards, in step 709d, branch processing corresponding to whether or not there is operation is performed. First, in step 709d, if the input device 13 is not operated, then proceed to step 709e to continue providing the hiding instruction for the operation guide 609 to the display control unit 710.

[0050] On the other hand, if the input device 13 is operated in step 709d, the process proceeds to step 709f, where the display control unit 710 is given an operation instruction 609. Thus, even when the operation instruction 609 is not displayed, processing is performed based on any operation of the input device 13 to display the operation instruction 609 (in other words, when any operation of the input device 13 occurs, the display screen of the touch monitor 12 is switched from the basic screen 600B without the operation instruction 609 to the basic screen 600A with the operation instruction 609). Therefore, when the operator attempts to operate the input device 13, the function assignment of each switch can be confirmed without any other special operations. Furthermore, when the operation instruction 609 is not displayed, in the operation processing unit 707, since the processing based on the operation of the input device 13 (processing corresponding to the current function assignment of the input device 13) is not performed in step 707j, it is possible to prevent the operator from incorrectly setting the vehicle body when mistakenly recognizing the function assigned to the input device 13.

[0051] Furthermore, as with the operation of switching to menu screen 600C, regarding functions common to all modes, since the operator is unlikely to misunderstand the function assignment, it can be configured so that the operation guide 609 remains hidden even when the input device 13 is operated in step 709d.

[0052] After the operation instruction 609 is displayed to the display control unit 710 in step 709f, the process proceeds to step 709g, where the timer management unit 709h is reset. The timer management unit 709h counts the duration of inactivity of the input device 13 while the operation instruction 609 is displayed. Therefore, the timer reset process is performed when the operation instruction 609 switches from hidden to displayed, or when an operation is performed on the input device 13.

[0053] In step 709b, if the current display screen is menu screen 600C, then as described above, even without operation guidance 609, the operator can easily deduce that the input device 13 can be used for screen operation. Therefore, proceed to step 709e and give an instruction to hide operation guidance 609.

[0054] In step 709b, if the current display screen is the basic screen 600A containing the operation guide 609, then proceed to... Figure 10 Step 709i. In step 709i, operation information of the input device 13 is obtained from the operation information acquisition unit 706. Further, in step 709j, branching processing corresponding to whether or not there is an operation is performed. In step 709j, if there is an operation of the input device 13, then proceeding to... Figure 9 Steps 709f and 709g involve performing the instruction to continue displaying the operation guide 609 and resetting the timer of the timer management unit 709h.

[0055] If there is no operation from input device 13 in step 709j, proceed to step 709k to obtain touch operation information from touch monitor 12. Then, in step 709l, determine whether a hiding operation of operation guide 609 has been performed, i.e., a click operation of operation guide hiding button 612 on basic screen 600A. If a click operation of operation guide hiding button 612 on basic screen 600A has been performed, it indicates that the operator determines that operation guide 609 is not needed; therefore, proceed to step 709m and output an instruction to hide operation guide 609.

[0056] If the operation guide 609 is not hidden in step 709l, then in step 709n, it is determined whether the timer of the timer management unit 709h has reached a predetermined time. If the predetermined time has elapsed in step 709n, then step 709m is entered, and an instruction to hide the operation guide 609 is output. If the operation guide 609 is displayed and the input device 13 is not operated for more than the predetermined time (if the state of not operating the input device 13 has elapsed for a fixed time), then the operator can determine that there is no intention to operate the input device 13. In this case, by performing the process of automatically hiding the operation guide 609 (switching the display screen of the touch monitor 12 from the basic screen 600A containing the operation guide 609 to the basic screen 600B without the operation guide 609), the operator no longer needs to operate the operation guide hiding button 612 of the basic screen 600A, thus enabling efficient operation.

[0057] In step 709n, if the timer of the timer management unit 709h has not reached the specified time, the process proceeds to step 709o to obtain the vehicle's operational status and store it in the vehicle operational status storage unit 709p. The vehicle operational status storage unit 709p holds the current operational status and the operational status at the time of the last processing cycle. In step 709q, a comparison of the various states determines whether the vehicle has transitioned from an inoperable state to an operable state. In step 709q, if the vehicle transitions from an inoperable state to an operable state, an instruction to hide the operation guide 609 is output in step 709m. At this time, since the operator can interpret this as meaning that the cutting lever 10 is in the unlocked position and the hydraulic excavator 1 is started to operate, by performing the process of automatically hiding the operation guide 609 (switching the display screen of the touch monitor 12 from the basic screen 600A containing the operation guide 609 to the basic screen 600B without the operation guide 609), the operator no longer needs to operate the operation guide hiding button 612 of the basic screen 600A, thus enabling more efficient operation.

[0058] In step 709q, if the vehicle's operational status remains unchanged, the process proceeds to step 709r to obtain the operating status of the control lever. In steps 709r, 709t, and the lever operating status storage unit 709s, the process similarly determines whether the control lever has transitioned from a non-operating state to an operating state. If the control lever transitions from a non-operating state to an operating state, step 709m outputs an instruction to hide the operation guide 609. Conversely, in step 709t, if the lever operating status remains unchanged, the process proceeds to step 709u, outputting an instruction to continue displaying the operation guide 609.

[0059] In this embodiment, a process is described that hides the operation guide 609 based on the vehicle's inability to operate and the lever's operating state. However, conversely, a process can also be implemented such that the operation guide 609 is displayed when the vehicle is in an inoperable state or when a fixed time has elapsed after the lever has been switched to a non-operable state, i.e., when there is a high probability that the operator will operate the input device 13. By applying such a process, the operator does not need to operate the input device 13 again to display the operation guide 609, thus enabling more efficient setting operations via the input device 13.

[0060] In the display control unit 710, a display screen is generated based on various vehicle body settings, the function allocation of the input device 13, and the display instructions of the operation guide 609, and then output to the touch monitor 12.

[0061] Thus, in this embodiment, the operator is determined to be in a state that requires operation guidance 609 based on the operation status of the input device 13 and various vehicle body states, and the operation guidance 609 is displayed on the touch monitor 12 as needed.

[0062] Furthermore, when the operation instructions 609 are not displayed on the touch monitor 12, since the operation based on the input device 13 is not processed, the operation will not be performed in the state of misidentifying the assigned function, and the visibility of other displayed information will not be reduced during the operation. In this case, the function assignment information of the input device 13 can be prompted to the operator.

[0063] [Summarize] As explained above, the working machine (hydraulic excavator 1) of this embodiment includes: an input device 13 (shuttle knob 13a and buttons 13b, 13c, 13d, 13e) capable of selectively assigning multiple prescribed functions (related to the work) (capable of selectively assigning any one of multiple prescribed functions, including a function to adjust the speed of the prime mover (engine, motor, etc.) driving the working machine); a display device (touch monitor 12) that switches between displaying a first display screen containing setting information (operation guidance 609) of the functions assigned to the input device 13 and a second display screen that does not contain setting information (operation guidance 609) of the functions assigned to the input device 13; and a control device 11 that acquires the operation information of the input device 13 (operation information acquisition unit 706) and manages the function allocation of the input device 13 (function allocation management unit 708). When the input device 13 receives an operation, the control device 11 performs control (operation processing unit 707) for performing processing corresponding to the function assigned to the input device 13 and control (display control unit 710) for controlling the display screen displayed on the display device. In the work machine, the control device 11 performs the following control: when the first display screen is displayed on the display device (touch monitor 12), it performs processing corresponding to the function assigned to the input device 13 when the input device 13 receives an operation; when the second display screen is displayed on the display device (touch monitor 12), it does not perform processing corresponding to the function assigned to the input device 13 when the input device 13 receives an operation, but instead switches the display screen of the display device (touch monitor 12) from the second display screen to the first display screen.

[0064] In addition, the working machine (hydraulic excavator 1) has a switching unit that selectively (by operator operation) switches the display screen of the display device between the first display screen and the second display screen.

[0065] In addition, the control device 11 controls the display device to switch the display screen from the first display screen to the second display screen after a fixed period of time in which the input device 13 has not been operated.

[0066] In addition, the control device 11 determines the operational status of the working machine (operability determination unit 701), and controls the working machine to switch the display screen of the display device from the first display screen to the second display screen when the working machine changes from an inoperable state to an operable state.

[0067] In addition, the control device 11 determines the operating state of the working machine (lever operation determination unit 702) and controls the working machine to switch the display screen of the display device from the first display screen to the second display screen when the working machine changes from the non-operating state to the operating state.

[0068] In addition, the working machine (hydraulic excavator 1) is equipped with cameras 8a, 8b, and 8c for capturing images of the area around the working machine. The camera images captured by the cameras 8a, 8b, and 8c are displayed on the first display screen and the second display screen. The display area of ​​the camera images displayed on the second display screen is larger than the display area of ​​the camera images displayed on the first display screen.

[0069] In addition, the input device 13 is composed of multiple operating parts (rotary knob 13a and buttons 13b, 13c, 13d, 13e) that can be assigned the specified functions respectively. When the control device 11 is in the state of displaying the second display screen on the display device, if any specific operating part among the multiple operating parts is operated, the control device 11 switches the display screen of the display device from the second display screen to the first display screen. The first display screen includes setting information of the function assigned to the specific operating part and setting information of the function assigned to the operating part among the multiple operating parts that is different from the specific operating part.

[0070] Furthermore, when the control device 11 assigns a screen operation function to the input device 13 for operating the display screen shown on the display device, when the input device 13 receives an operation, regardless of whether the display screen on the display device is the first display screen or the second display screen, it performs screen operation processing corresponding to the current function assignment of the input device 13 in response to the operation of the input device 13.

[0071] In addition, the input device 13 accepts operations for switching the functions assigned to the input device 13 and operations for performing processing corresponding to the functions assigned to the input device 13.

[0072] In addition, the plurality of prescribed functions that can be assigned to the input device 13 include: the function of adjusting the rotational speed of the prime mover (engine, motor, etc.) driving the working machinery, the function of adjusting the volume of the audio in the cab of the working machinery, and the function of adjusting the air volume of the air conditioner in the cab of the working machinery.

[0073] The input device 13 of this embodiment has a first display screen containing current function allocation information (operation instructions 609) for the input device 13, and a second display screen that does not contain current function allocation information (operation instructions 609) for the input device 13. During the display of the second display screen, regardless of the current function allocation, the process of switching to the first display screen is performed based on the operation of the input device 13. By performing such processing, the operator can perform various setting operations after confirming the first display screen containing the current function allocation information, and therefore, operation can be performed without misinterpreting the currently allocated function. In addition, since the second display screen that does not contain function allocation information is displayed before the operator performs operation on the input device 13, operation can be performed without impairing the visibility of other displayed information.

[0074] Furthermore, by setting up a mechanism (switching unit) that selectively switches from the first display screen to the second display screen, the second display screen can be displayed at any time when the operator no longer needs the current function allocation information, thereby improving the visibility of high-priority display information during the operation and enabling efficient operation.

[0075] In addition, if the input device 13 has been inactive for a fixed period of time, the operator can stop operating the input device 13 by controlling the display of the second display screen. When it is determined that the current function allocation information is not needed, the second display screen is automatically displayed. Therefore, the operator can save the trouble of switching to the second display screen and improve work efficiency.

[0076] In addition, the operating status of the working machine is determined, and the second display screen is controlled to be displayed when the working machine changes from the non-operating state to the operating state. Thus, when the operator starts to operate the working machine, that is, when the situation transitions to the point where it is unlikely to operate the input device 13, the second display screen is automatically displayed, which improves the visibility of display information other than the current function allocation information. Therefore, the work can be carried out efficiently.

[0077] In addition, the system determines whether the machine can operate and controls the display of the second display screen when the machine changes from an inoperable state to an operable state. Thus, when the operator is about to start operating the machine, that is, when the situation transitions to a point where it is unlikely to operate the input device 13, the second display screen is automatically displayed, which improves the visibility of display information other than the current function allocation information. Therefore, the operation can be carried out efficiently.

[0078] In addition, by making the display area of ​​the camera image displayed on the second display screen larger than that of the camera image displayed on the first display screen, it is easier to visually identify the situation around the machine in the second display screen, which does not contain current function allocation information, thus enabling efficient operation.

[0079] Furthermore, when the input device 13 is composed of multiple operation units (rotary knob 13a and buttons 13b, 13c, 13d, 13e), when any one operation unit is operated, the control is to display a first display screen that also contains function allocation information of the operation unit different from the operated operation unit. Therefore, it is not necessary to switch the function allocation information according to the operation of each operation unit. Thus, when multiple operation units are operated continuously, the number of operations of the input device 13 can be reduced, thereby enabling efficient operation of the input device.

[0080] Furthermore, when the input device 13 is assigned a screen operation function for operating the display screen shown on the display device (touch monitor 12), even if the function assignment information is not directly displayed, the operator can infer that the current function assignment is a screen operation function based on the content displayed on the screen. Therefore, when the input device 13 is assigned a screen operation function, screen operation processing can be performed regardless of whether function assignment information is displayed, thereby enabling efficient screen operation.

[0081] As described above, according to this embodiment, the assigned function will not be misidentified, and the visibility of other displayed information will not be reduced during operation. In this case, the operator can be prompted with information indicating the current function assignment.

[0082] This embodiment uses a hydraulic excavator as an example to illustrate the operation of the present invention, but the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment and can be modified in various ways. For example, the present invention is not limited to having all the structures described in the above embodiment, but also includes cases where a part of the structure is removed.

[0083] Furthermore, the various structures, functions, and execution processes of the aforementioned control device 11 can be partially or entirely implemented in hardware (e.g., logic designed in an integrated circuit to perform each function). Alternatively, the structure of the control device 11 can be implemented by a program (software) that is read / executed by a processing unit (e.g., a CPU) to achieve the functions of the control device structure. This program information can be stored, for example, in semiconductor memory (flash memory, SSD, etc.), magnetic storage devices (hard disk drives, etc.), and recording media (disk, optical disk, etc.).

[0084] Furthermore, in the description of the above embodiments, the control lines and information lines can be understood as structures required for the description of this embodiment, but are not necessarily limited to all control lines and information lines representing the product. It can also be considered that almost all structures are interconnected.

[0085] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0086] 1. Hydraulic excavator (operating machinery)

[0087] 1A Front-end machine

[0088] 1B Body

[0089] 1a Boom

[0090] 1b pole

[0091] 1c bucket

[0092] 1d Upper Rotational Body

[0093] 1e Lower driving body

[0094] 1F Driver's Cab

[0095] 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d posture sensors

[0096] 5. Engine (Prime Mobility Unit)

[0097] 6 pumps

[0098] 7 Electronic control valve

[0099] Cameras 8a, 8b, and 8c

[0100] 9a, 9b, 9c, 9d Operating levers (operating devices)

[0101] 10. Shut-off lever

[0102] 11 Control device

[0103] 12. Touchscreen monitor (display device)

[0104] 13 Input devices

[0105] 13a Shuttle Knob

[0106] Buttons 13b, 13c, 13d, and 13e

[0107] 401 work mode

[0108] 402 Air Conditioning Mode

[0109] 403 Audio Mode

[0110] 404 Menu Mode

[0111] 600A Basic Screen (with Operation Instructions) (First Display Screen)

[0112] 600B Basic Screen (No Operation Instructions) (Second Display Screen)

[0113] 600C Menu Screen (Second Display Screen)

[0114] 609 Operating Instructions

[0115] 701 Motion Judgment Department

[0116] 702 lever operation quantity determination unit

[0117] 703 Control Command Value Determination Unit

[0118] 704 Body Design Management Department

[0119] 705 Camera Image Acquisition Department

[0120] 706 Operation Information Acquisition Department

[0121] 707 Operations Processing Department

[0122] 708 Functional Allocation Management Department

[0123] 709 Operation Instructions Display Judgment Section

[0124] 710 Display Control Unit.

Claims

1. A type of operating machinery, comprising: An input device that can be selectively assigned multiple prescribed functions; A display device that switches between displaying a first display screen containing setting information for functions assigned to the input device and a second display screen not containing setting information for those functions; and A control device, which, when the input device receives an operation, performs control for processing corresponding to the function assigned to the input device, and control for controlling the display screen displayed on the display device. The operating machinery is characterized in that... When the first display screen is being displayed on the display device, and the input device receives an operation, the control device performs processing corresponding to the function assigned to the input device. When the second display screen is being displayed on the display device, if the input device receives an operation, the control device does not perform the processing corresponding to the function assigned to the input device, but instead switches the display screen of the display device from the second display screen to the first display screen.

2. The operating machinery according to claim 1, characterized in that, The plurality of prescribed functions that can be assigned to the input device include the function of adjusting the rotational speed of the prime mover that drives the working machinery.

3. The operating machinery according to claim 1, characterized in that, It has a switching unit that selectively switches the display screen of the display device between the first display screen and the second display screen.

4. The operating machinery according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control device controls the display device to switch the display screen from the first display screen to the second display screen after a fixed period of time when the input device has not been operated.

5. The operating machinery according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control device determines whether the working machinery can operate, and controls the working machinery to switch the display screen of the display device from the first display screen to the second display screen when the working machinery changes from an inoperable state to an operable state.

6. The operating machinery according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control device determines the operating state of the working machinery and controls it when the working machinery switches from a non-operating state to an operating state, so as to switch the display screen of the display device from the first display screen to the second display screen.

7. The operating machinery according to claim 1, characterized in that, Equipped with cameras for capturing images of the surroundings of the operating machinery. The first display screen and the second display screen display camera images captured by the camera. The display area of ​​the camera image displayed on the second display screen is larger than the display area of ​​the camera image displayed on the first display screen.

8. The operating machinery according to claim 1, characterized in that, The input device consists of multiple operating units that can be assigned the specified functions respectively. When the second display screen is being displayed on the display device, if any one of the plurality of operation units receives an operation, the control device switches the display screen of the display device from the second display screen back to the first display screen. The first display screen includes setting information for the functions assigned to the specific operation unit, and setting information for the functions assigned to the operation units that are different from the specific operation unit among the plurality of operation units.

9. The operating machinery according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the input device is assigned a screen operation function for operating the display screen shown on the display device, the control device performs screen operation processing regardless of whether the display screen on the display device is the first display screen or the second display screen, when the input device receives an operation.

10. The operating machinery according to claim 2, characterized in that, The input device accepts operations for switching the functions assigned to the input device and operations for performing processing corresponding to the functions assigned to the input device.

11. The operating machinery according to claim 1, characterized in that, The plurality of prescribed functions that can be assigned to the input device include the function of adjusting the rotational speed of the prime mover driving the machine, the function of adjusting the volume of the audio in the cab of the machine, and the function of adjusting the airflow of the air conditioner in the cab of the machine.

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