Operation device and work machine provided with same

Abstract

Provided are an operation device and a work machine provided with the operation device, with which it is possible to immediately adjust the audio volume even if the audio volume is heard to be small or large as a result of adjusting the engine speed during audio playback. Alternatively, when the engine speed is adjusted during the operation of the air conditioner, the air volume of the air conditioner is reduced to suppress the power loss of the engine, or the fuel economy is improved, the air volume of the air conditioner can be immediately adjusted. In an operation device that exclusively assigns an engine speed adjustment function and an audio volume adjustment function to a rotation operation of a dial, in a state in which the engine speed adjustment function is assigned to the rotation operation of the dial, the assignment of the rotation operation of the dial is switched to the audio volume adjustment function by tilting the dial in one direction. In a state where the audio volume adjustment function is assigned to the rotation operation of the dial, the distribution of the rotation operation of the dial is switched to the engine speed adjustment function by tilting the dial in a direction opposite to the direction when switching from the engine speed adjustment function to the audio volume adjustment function.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an operating device having a dial for accepting rotary operations and cross-directional operations, and to working machinery such as hydraulic excavators having such an operating device. Background Technology

[0002] In the past, with the increasing multi-functionality of hydraulic excavators and other construction machinery, the number of input switches used for these functions has tended to increase. However, if the number of switches is too large, operability decreases and the living conditions of the cab are affected. Therefore, in Patent Document 1 (Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2022-26000), as a method to suppress the increase in the number of parts and improve operability, an operating device is disclosed that can selectively allocate and adjust the engine speed of a dial that accepts rotary operations and perform screen operation functions corresponding to the screen displayed on the monitor.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2022-26000 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] However, when using the operating device of Patent Document 1, the engine speed required for driving the machinery can be adjusted and the screen operation displayed on the monitor can be performed through one operating device. Therefore, although the number of parts is reduced, when adjusting the audio volume and air conditioning air volume, it is difficult to immediately adjust the audio volume and air conditioning air volume in response to changes in the perceived audio due to the adjustment of the engine speed or the requirement to adjust the air conditioning air volume.

[0008] For example, during audio playback, if the engine speed is reduced from high to low, the engine sound heard in the driver's cabin becomes quieter, resulting in the audio volume sounding louder than before the engine speed was reduced. Conversely, if the engine speed is increased from low to high, the engine sound becomes louder, resulting in the audio volume sounding quieter than before the engine speed was increased. In audio playback, especially during hands-free calls using a smartphone or mobile phone connected to the audio, the other party's voice may sometimes sound louder or quieter after the engine speed is adjusted; therefore, it is preferable to be able to adjust the audio volume immediately.

[0009] In addition, since the air conditioner compressor uses the engine's power, adjusting the engine speed can result in situations where you want to reduce the air conditioner's airflow to suppress engine power loss (when the engine speed is reduced, the air conditioner has more engine power, and you want to ensure engine output when driving the work machinery), or you want to improve fuel economy (when the engine output is reduced for the purpose of driving with low fuel consumption, you want to reduce the air conditioner's airflow to drive with low fuel consumption). Therefore, it is preferable to be able to adjust the air conditioner's airflow immediately.

[0010] Therefore, the present invention was made in view of the above circumstances, and its object is to provide an operating device and a working machine having the operating device, which can immediately adjust the audio volume even when adjusting the engine speed during audio playback results in the audio volume being too low or too high, or can immediately adjust the air conditioning airflow when adjusting the engine speed during air conditioning operation results in the desire to reduce the air conditioning airflow to suppress engine power loss or to improve fuel economy.

[0011] Methods for solving problems

[0012] To address the aforementioned issues, one representative operating device of the present invention is characterized by having: a dial that accepts rotational operations and operations in directions other than rotational operations; and a controller that, when accepting an operation in a direction other than the rotational operation of the dial, switches the function of the rotational operation assigned to the dial to at least one of the following functions: an engine speed adjustment function (i.e., a first adjustment function) for adjusting engine speed, an audio volume adjustment function for adjusting audio volume, and an air conditioning airflow adjustment function for adjusting air conditioning airflow, i.e., a second adjustment function.

[0013] Invention Effects

[0014] According to the present invention, even if adjusting the engine speed during audio playback results in a perceived change in the volume of the audio, the audio volume can be adjusted immediately. Similarly, if adjusting the engine speed during air conditioning operation results in a requirement to adjust the air conditioning fan speed, the air conditioning fan speed can be adjusted immediately.

[0015] Other issues, structures, and effects not mentioned above will be clarified through the following description of the implementation methods. Attached Figure Description

[0016] Figure 1 This is a perspective view schematically showing the appearance of a hydraulic excavator, which is an example of the working machinery in this embodiment.

[0017] Figure 2The diagram shows the hydraulic drive unit and its control unit of a hydraulic excavator, which is an example of the working machinery in this embodiment.

[0018] Figure 3A This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the equipment structure inside the driver's cab of the vehicle body according to this embodiment.

[0019] Figure 3B yes Figure 3A An enlarged top view of the dial and push-button controls of the device.

[0020] Figure 3C yes Figure 3A An enlarged 3D view of the dial of the operating device.

[0021] Figure 4 This is a simplified system structure diagram showing the operating device and surrounding structure of this embodiment.

[0022] Figure 5 This diagram schematically illustrates an example of a method for switching the function of the rotary operation assigned to the dial in this embodiment.

[0023] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating the processing of the control device for the operating device in this embodiment (rotation operation of the dial and operation in the cross direction).

[0024] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating the processing of the control device for the operating device in this embodiment (dial pressing operation).

[0025] Figure 8 This is a diagram that roughly illustrates an example of the monitor display when the dial rotation operation of this embodiment is assigned to the engine speed adjustment function.

[0026] Figure 9 This diagram is a schematic representation of an example of the monitor display corresponding to the case where the dial rotation operation of this embodiment is assigned to the audio volume adjustment function.

[0027] Figure 10 This is a diagram that roughly illustrates an example of the monitor display when the rotary operation of the dial in this embodiment is assigned to the air conditioning airflow adjustment function.

[0028] Figure 11 This diagram is a schematic representation of an example of how the monitor displays an operation corresponding to the crosshair direction of the dial in this embodiment, which is assigned to the cursor movement operation on the screen. Detailed Implementation

[0029] Hereinafter, examples of work machinery using the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, regarding embodiments of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 1 This is a perspective view schematically showing the appearance of a hydraulic excavator, an example of the working machinery described in this embodiment. Additionally, Figure 2 The diagram shows the hydraulic drive unit and its control unit of a hydraulic excavator, which is an example of the working machinery in this embodiment.

[0031] like Figure 1 As shown, the hydraulic excavator 1 comprises the following parts: a body (main body of the working machine) 1B, which consists of an upper slewing body 1d and a lower traveling body 1e; and a multi-joint type working device 1A, which consists of a boom 1a, a stick 1b, and a bucket 1c, which rotate vertically respectively, and is mounted in front of the upper slewing body 1d. The base end of the boom 1a of the working device 1A is supported on the front of the upper slewing body 1d. The working device 1A is composed of multiple driven components (boom 1a, stick 1b, and bucket 1c as an attachment), and is capable of performing excavation, unloading, and other operations. The upper slewing body 1d is rotatably mounted on top of the lower traveling body 1e, and has a cab (also called a driver's cab) 1f.

[0032] Figure 1 The boom 1a, stick 1b, bucket 1c, upper slewing body 1d, and lower traveling body 1e are respectively composed of Figure 1 and Figure 2 The boom cylinder 3a, stick cylinder 3b, bucket cylinder 3c, swing motor 3d, and left and right travel motors 3e and 3f are each driven by hydraulic actuators, and their actions are indicated by multiple control lever devices 4a to 4f. These control lever devices 4a to 4f are located in the operator's cab 1f, and respectively instruct the actions of the multiple hydraulic actuators 3a to 3f according to the amount of operation.

[0033] exist Figure 2In this embodiment, the hydraulic excavator 1 includes: a hydraulic pump 2; a plurality of hydraulic actuators, including a boom cylinder 3a, a stick cylinder 3b, a bucket cylinder 3c, a swing motor 3d, and left and right travel motors 3e and 3f driven by pressurized oil from the hydraulic pump 2; a plurality of lever devices 4a to 4f, which are respectively provided corresponding to the hydraulic actuators 3a to 3f; a plurality of flow control valves 5a to 5f, which are controlled by the lever devices 4a to 4f to control the flow rate of pressurized oil supplied to the hydraulic actuators 3a to 3f; a relief valve 6, which opens when the ejection pressure of the hydraulic pump 2 reaches or exceeds a set value; and a control unit 7, which has the function of controlling the flow control valves 5a to 5f by inputting operating signals from the lever devices 4a to 4f. These components constitute a hydraulic drive device that drives a plurality of driven components, including the boom 1a, stick 1b, bucket 1c, upper swing body 1d, and lower travel body 1e of the hydraulic excavator 1. The hydraulic pump 2 is driven by the rotation of an engine (not shown) to spray pressurized oil (working oil) into each hydraulic actuator 3a~3f.

[0034] like Figure 1 As shown, the boom pin, stick pin, and bucket pin of the working device 1A are equipped with angle sensors (posture sensors) 8a, 8b, and 8c, which detect the rotation angles of the boom 1a, stick 1b, and bucket 1c. The posture of the working device 1A can be detected by the angles detected by the angle sensors 8a, 8b, and 8c, thus functioning as posture sensors for detecting the posture of the working device 1A. Furthermore, inertial measurement units (IMUs) installed on the boom 1a, stick 1b, and bucket 1c can be used as posture sensors for the working device 1A.

[0035] Figure 3A , Figure 3B as well as Figure 3C This diagram schematically illustrates an example of a device installed in the driver's cab 1f of the vehicle body 1B in this embodiment.

[0036] Lever 301 is a safety device that switches the drive of the hydraulic excavator 1 between active and inactive states by operating lever devices 4a-4f. The operating device group 302 (hereinafter, sometimes simply referred to as operating device 302) for using the functions of the hydraulic excavator 1 consists of a dial operating device 305 and push-button operating devices 306-309. Each operating device is an input device that enables the use of the functions of the hydraulic excavator 1 of this embodiment. Representative examples of these functions include engine speed adjustment, windshield wiper operation, audio operation, and air conditioning operation. The dial operating device (also simply called the dial) 305 has a mechanism that allows movement in rotational and cross (up, down, left, right) directions and can be pressed down from above (see specifically...). Figure 3CThe push-button operating devices (also simply push-buttons) 306-309 are located near the dial operating device 305 and have a mechanism that allows them to be pressed down from above. The monitor 303 has a touch panel and is used to display various information and functions of the hydraulic excavator 1. The monitor 303 is operated using the operating device assembly 302 or by touch. The engine starter 304 is a device for controlling the starting of the engine of the hydraulic excavator 1 (engine start control device). The engine starter 304 is located between the operating lever devices 4a, 4b and the operating device assembly 302; in other words, it is located in front of the operating device assembly 302.

[0037] Figure 4 This is a simplified system structure diagram showing the operating device and surrounding structure of this embodiment.

[0038] The hydraulic excavator 1 in this embodiment is equipped with Figure 4 The control device (controller) 400 for the operating device shown in this embodiment. The control device 400 assigns functions to the operating device group 302, executes the functions of the hydraulic excavator 1, and displays this information to the monitor 303, etc., based on signals input by the operator through the operating device group 302 and the engine start control device 401. The control device 400 includes: an input determination unit 402, a switch function allocation processing unit 403, a switch function allocation storage unit 404, a signal output unit 405, and a display processing unit 406. As peripheral devices, it includes: an engine start control device 401, a monitor 303, an engine speed control device 407, an audio volume control device 408, and an air conditioning fan speed control device 409.

[0039] In the input determination unit 402, based on the operation of the dial operation device 305, it determines which direction of rotation operation was input, which direction of cross-shaped operation was input, and whether a press operation was input. When it is determined that a signal satisfying the conditions for changing the function allocation of the operation device group 302 has been input, a signal is sent to the switch function allocation processing unit 403. Based on the information in this signal, the switch function allocation processing unit 403 sends a signal to the signal output unit 405 to switch the function allocation of each switch in the operation device group 302. The display processing unit 406, which receives the signal of switching the function allocation of the operation device group 302 from the signal output unit 405, sends a signal to the monitor 303 to display the function allocation status of the operation device group 302. In addition, the signal output unit 405 sends signals for switching the allocation function to the dial operation device 305 and the push-button operation devices 306-309.

[0040] When the signal output unit 405 receives a rotation operation signal from the input determination unit 402 from the dial operation device 305, it sends a signal to any one of the engine speed control device 407, audio volume control device 408, and air conditioning air volume control device 409 according to the function assigned to the dial operation device 305. At the same time, it sends a signal for switching the display to the monitor 303 through the display processing unit 406.

[0041] When the switch function allocation processing unit 403 receives a signal from the engine start control unit 401 indicating that the engine is off, the switch function allocation storage unit 404 stores the functions that were just allocated to the operating device group 302. When the engine is restarted (the next time the engine is started), the engine start control unit 401 sends a signal to the switch function allocation processing unit 403 indicating that the engine has started. The signal output unit 405 and the display processing unit 406 send a signal to the monitor 303 to display the functions that were just allocated before the engine was started. At the same time, the functions that were just allocated before the engine was started are allocated to the dial operating device 305 and the button operating devices 306-309.

[0042] Figure 5 This diagram schematically illustrates an example of a method for switching the functions of the dial operating device 305. The rotational operation of the dial operating device 305 in this embodiment is exclusively assigned to any one of the following functions: an engine speed adjustment function to adjust the engine speed driving the hydraulic excavator 1 (working device 1A); an audio volume adjustment function to adjust the volume of audio played in the cab 1f of the vehicle body 1B; and an air conditioning volume adjustment function to adjust the airflow of the air conditioner used for air conditioning in the cab 1f of the vehicle body 1B.

[0043] When the function assigned to the rotary operation of the dial operating device 305 is engine speed adjustment function 500, when the dial operating device 305 is tilted to the right (507), the function assigned to the rotary operation of the dial operating device 305 switches to audio volume adjustment function 502. In this state, when the dial operating device 305 is tilted to the left (505), the function assigned to the rotary operation of the dial operating device 305 switches back to the state before switching to audio volume adjustment function 502, i.e., engine speed adjustment function 500.

[0044] When the rotary operation function assigned to the dial operating device 305 is the engine speed adjustment function 500, when the dial operating device 305 is tilted to the left (506), the rotary operation function assigned to the dial operating device 305 switches to the air conditioning fan speed adjustment function 501. In this state, when the dial operating device 305 is tilted to the right (504), the rotary operation function assigned to the dial operating device 305 switches back to the state before switching to the air conditioning fan speed adjustment function 501, i.e., the engine speed adjustment function 500.

[0045] When the function of the rotary operation assigned to the dial operation device 305 is the engine speed adjustment function 500, when the dial operation device 305 is pressed (508), the function of the cross direction operation assigned to the dial operation device 305 is switched to the screen operation function 503 for moving the cursor displayed on the monitor 303.

[0046] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating the processing of the control device 400 for the operating device (rotation operation of the dial operating device 305 and operation in the cross direction). According to... Figure 6 The actions in the flowchart are as follows.

[0047] S100: When the engine is started, proceed to S110. If the engine is not started, proceed to the end.

[0048] S110: The rotary operation function of the dial operation device 305 assigned to the operation device group 302 and the press operation function of the button operation devices 306-309 are respectively assigned to the functions just assigned before the engine is turned off.

[0049] S120: The monitor 303 schematically displays the functions assigned in S110 and their current settings.

[0050] S130: When the dial operating device 305 is rotated, proceed to S140. If the dial operating device 305 is not rotated, proceed to S160.

[0051] S140: Adjust the function of the rotation operation assigned to the dial operating device 305. Assign any one of the following functions to the rotation operation of the dial operating device 305: engine speed adjustment function, audio volume adjustment function, or air conditioning air volume adjustment function, or adjust it according to the amount and direction of rotation of the dial operating device 305.

[0052] S150: Based on the result of S140, change the display content of monitor 303 displayed in S120.

[0053] S160: When the dial operating device 305 is tilted in either of the cross directions, proceed to S170. Otherwise, proceed to the end.

[0054] S170: The rotation operation function of the dial operation device 305 assigned to the operation device group 302 and the pressing operation function assigned to the button operation devices 306-309 are switched to functions different from those already assigned (see reference). Figure 5 ).

[0055] S180: The function assigned in S170 and the current setting value of the assigned function are schematically shown on monitor 303, and then transferred to S130.

[0056] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating the processing of the control device 400 for the operating device (dial operation 305 during pressing). According to... Figure 7 The actions in the flowchart are as follows.

[0057] S200: If the rotation operation of the dial operating device 305 is assigned an engine speed adjustment function, proceed to S210. If no other function is assigned, proceed to the end.

[0058] S210: When dial operation device 305 is pressed, proceed to S220. If dial operation device 305 is not pressed, proceed to end.

[0059] S220: The screen displayed on monitor 303 changes to a menu screen. For example, the menu screen displays a menu that allows you to confirm changes to vehicle settings and vehicle-related information.

[0060] S230: Display the item for operation where the cursor is located in the menu screen displayed in S220. That is, display the cursor for screen operation on the monitor 303 that displays the menu screen.

[0061] S240: When the dial operating device 305 is tilted in either direction of the crosshair, proceed to S250. If the dial operating device 305 is not tilted, proceed to the end.

[0062] S250: The position of the cursor displayed in S230 moves according to the direction in which the dial operating device 305 is tilted in S240. Furthermore, as described above, when the cross-shaped operation of the dial operating device 305 can be used to move the cursor within the monitor 303 via a pressing operation of the dial operating device 305, the rotation operation of the dial operating device 305 is disabled.

[0063] S260: If dial operation device 305 is pressed, proceed to S270. If dial operation device 305 is not pressed, proceed to end.

[0064] S270: Execute the function assigned to the cursor position after movement in S250. For example, switch to the screen displaying the function for setting the cursor position. Furthermore, as described above, the rotation operation of the dial operation device 305 is enabled by pressing it again after the initial press operation.

[0065] Figure 8 This is a diagram that roughly illustrates an example of the display related to the basic functions of the excavator on the monitor 303, and the display example of the function assigned to the rotary operation device 305 as the engine speed adjustment function.

[0066] Next to the display (appearance design) 813, which mimics the dial operation device 305, are arranged: display 815, which indicates that when the dial operation device 305 is tilted to the right, the rotation operation of the dial operation device 305 is switched to the audio volume adjustment function; and display 814, which indicates that when the dial operation device 305 is tilted to the left, the rotation operation of the dial operation device 305 is switched to the air conditioning fan speed adjustment function. Display 814 can also switch the rotation operation of the dial operation device 305 to the air conditioning fan speed adjustment function via touch monitor 303. Display 815 can also switch the rotation operation of the dial operation device 305 to the audio volume adjustment function via touch monitor 303.

[0067] In the appearance design 813 that mimics the dial operation device 305, the appearance design 820 that displays the engine speed adjustment function is assigned, and the appearance design 822 that displays the adjustment stage changes between the display 821 that displays the minimum stage and the display 823 that displays the maximum stage, depending on the adjustment of the engine speed.

[0068] The displays 816-819, which are assigned functions to the button operation devices 306-309, mimic the shape of the actual buttons on the button operation devices 306-309, and the functions are executed by pressing the button operation devices 306-309 or by touching the displays 816-819 on the touch monitor 303.

[0069] The functions of the push-button operating devices 306-309 are assigned according to the rotation operation function assigned to the dial operating device 305 (in this case, the engine speed adjustment function). The functions assigned to the push-button operating devices 306-309 are shown below.

[0070] Display 816 indicates the functions assigned to the button operation device 306:

[0071] Switch the driving speed mode of the lower driving body 1e

[0072] Display 818 indicates the functions assigned to the push-button operation device 307:

[0073] Switch the motion speed of the upper rotating body 1d

[0074] Display 817 indicates the functions assigned to the push-button operation device 308:

[0075] wiper function

[0076] Display 819 indicates the functions assigned to the button operation device 309:

[0077] Windshield washer function

[0078] Figure 9 This is a diagram that roughly illustrates an example of a display related to the basic functions of an excavator on the monitor 303, and an example of a display where the function assigned to the rotary operation device 305 is an audio volume adjustment function.

[0079] Next to the display (appearance design) 824, which mimics the dial operation device 305, is a display 825 indicating that when the dial operation device 305 is tilted to the left, the rotation operation of the dial operation device 305 is switched to the engine speed adjustment function. The display 825 can also switch the rotation operation of the dial operation device 305 to the engine speed adjustment function via the touch monitor 303.

[0080] In the appearance design 824 that mimics the dial operation device 305, the appearance design 830 that displays the assigned audio volume adjustment function changes between the display design 832 that indicates the adjustment stage and the display 831 that indicates the minimum stage, and the display 833 that indicates the maximum stage, depending on the adjustment of the audio volume.

[0081] The displays 826-829, which are assigned functions to the button operation devices 306-309, mimic the shape of the actual buttons on the button operation devices 306-309. The functions are executed by pressing the button operation devices 306-309 or by touching the displays 826-829 on the touch monitor 303.

[0082] The functions of the button operation devices 306-309 are assigned according to the rotation operation function assigned to the dial operation device 305 (in this case, the audio volume adjustment function). The functions assigned to the button operation devices 306-309 are shown below.

[0083] Display 826 indicates the functions assigned to the button operation device 306:

[0084] Switch to the previous station of the currently selected station.

[0085] Display 828 shows the functions assigned to the button operation device 307:

[0086] Switch to the next radio station after the currently selected station.

[0087] Display 827 indicates the functions assigned to the button operation device 308:

[0088] Switching audio sources

[0089] Display 829 indicates the functions assigned to the button operation device 309:

[0090] Connecting and disconnecting audio power

[0091] The system includes a display 857 indicating whether the currently selected station is AM or FM, a frequency display 858, and a display 859 indicating the current audio volume. These displays are always present even when the rotary operation function assigned to the dial operation device 305 is not used for audio volume adjustment.

[0092] Figure 10 This is a diagram that roughly illustrates an example of the display related to the basic functions of the excavator on the monitor 303, and the display example where the function assigned to the rotary operation device 305 is the air conditioning air volume adjustment function.

[0093] Next to the display (appearance design) 834, which mimics the dial operation device 305, is a display 835 indicating that when the dial operation device 305 is tilted to the right, the rotation operation of the dial operation device 305 is switched to the engine speed adjustment function. The display 835 can also switch the rotation operation of the dial operation device 305 to the engine speed adjustment function via the touch monitor 303.

[0094] In the appearance design 834 that mimics the dial operation device 305, the appearance design 843 that displays the function of adjusting the air conditioning air volume changes between the display 844 that displays the minimum stage and the display 846 that displays the maximum stage, depending on the adjustment of the air conditioning air volume.

[0095] The displays 839-842, which are assigned functions to the button operation devices 306-309, mimic the shape of the actual buttons on the button operation devices 306-309, and the functions are executed by pressing the button operation devices 306-309 or touching the displays 839-842 on the touch monitor 303.

[0096] The functions of the push-button operating devices 306-309 are assigned according to the rotation operation function assigned to the dial operating device 305 (in this case, the air conditioning airflow adjustment function). The functions assigned to the push-button operating devices 306-309 are shown below.

[0097] Display 839 indicates the functions assigned to the button operation device 306:

[0098] Turning on and off internal gas circulation

[0099] Display 841 indicates the functions assigned to the button operation device 307:

[0100] Automatic air conditioning on / off

[0101] Display 840 indicates the functions assigned to the button operation device 308:

[0102] Switching of blow outlet

[0103] Display 842 indicates the functions assigned to the button operation device 309:

[0104] Connecting and disconnecting the air conditioner power supply

[0105] The system includes a display 836 showing the current temperature setting of the air conditioner, a display 837 showing the status of internal air circulation, the status of the air outlet, and the status of automatic air conditioning, and a display 838 showing the current airflow setting of the air conditioner. These displays are always present even when the rotary operation function assigned to the dial control 305 is not used for adjusting the airflow.

[0106] Figure 11 This diagram roughly illustrates an example of a menu screen that displays basic excavator functions on the monitor 303 and assigns operations to the crosshairs of the dial operating device 305 as a screen operation function. It shows a screen capable of setting excavator functions and viewing information. The cursor 853 is positioned at attachment 848 in menu items 847-852. When the dial operating device 305 is tilted upwards, the cursor 853 moves to the warning list 847; when the dial operating device 305 is tilted downwards, the cursor 853 moves to monitor setting 849. Menu items 847-852 displayed on the monitor 303 are also executed by touching the monitor 303.

[0107] In the appearance design 854 that imitates the dial operation device 305, as a screen operation function, there is a display indicating the state in which the dial operation device 305 can be tilted up and down.

[0108] Functions are assigned to the button operation devices 306-309 according to the screen operation functions assigned to the dial operation device 305 for pressing operations. The functions assigned to the button operation devices 306-307 are displayed below. Functions are executed by pressing the button operation devices 306-307 or by touching the displays 855-856 on the touch monitor 303.

[0109] Display 855 indicates the functions assigned to the button operation device 306:

[0110] Return to the previous level

[0111] Display 856 indicates the functions assigned to the button operation device 307:

[0112] Switch to the main screen (the rotation function assigned to the dial control device 305 becomes the engine speed adjustment function).

[0113] [Effects of this implementation method]

[0114] As with existing technology, when using an operating device that selectively assigns the function of adjusting engine speed and the screen operation function corresponding to the operation displayed on the monitor to the dial rotation operation, after adjusting the engine speed, to adjust the audio volume, one must switch the function assigned to the dial rotation operation to the screen operation function, and then move the cursor to the audio volume adjustment function to adjust the audio volume. Therefore, it is difficult to adjust the audio volume immediately. On the other hand, when a dedicated dial operating device for audio volume adjustment, different from the operating device of existing technology, is provided, after adjusting the engine speed, one must release the hand from the dial once and then switch to the operating device for adjusting the audio volume. Therefore, it is also difficult to adjust the audio volume immediately.

[0115] [Effect 1]

[0116] In contrast, in this embodiment, even without releasing the hand from the dial operating device 305, simply tilting the dial operating device 305 to the right once can switch the function assigned to the dial rotation operation from engine speed adjustment to audio volume adjustment. Therefore, the audio volume can be adjusted immediately in response to changes in the perceived audio volume accompanying engine speed adjustment. Furthermore, after adjusting the audio volume, simply tilting the dial operating device 305 to the left once can switch the dial rotation operation assignment back to engine speed adjustment, thus allowing for efficient continuation of operation. Other effects of this embodiment include the following effects 2 to 6.

[0117] [Effect 2]

[0118] As a general and efficient function that can be adjusted by rotating the dial along with engine speed and audio volume, there is an air conditioning fan speed adjustment function. However, in contrast, the function assigned to the dial operation device 305 can be switched from the engine speed adjustment function state to the air conditioning fan speed adjustment function simply by tilting the dial operation device 305 to the left once. Therefore, the air conditioning fan speed can be adjusted efficiently.

[0119] [Effect 3]

[0120] The engine speed adjustment function, which affects the efficiency of the operation itself, is a rotary operation function assigned to the dial operation device 305, located between the audio volume adjustment function and the air conditioning fan speed adjustment function (see reference). Figure 5 Therefore, if the rotation operation function of the dial operation device 305 assigned to the operation is considered as the engine speed adjustment function, the operator can efficiently adjust the audio volume and air conditioning air volume, and at the same time easily remember the switching method of the rotation operation function assigned to the dial operation device 305.

[0121] [Effect 4]

[0122] The monitor 303 displays the function of the rotation operation assigned to the dial operation device 305 and the setting status of the function (813, 824, 834). Therefore, it is possible to adjust the function of the rotation operation assigned to the dial operation device 305 while observing the monitor 303, and to immediately observe the camera image 810 when the safety of the surroundings needs to be checked.

[0123] [Effect 5]

[0124] In the operating device group 302, there are push button devices 306-309 near the dial operating device 305 that assign functions according to the rotation operation function assigned to the dial operating device 305. Therefore, functions associated with the rotation operation function assigned to the dial operating device 305 can be operated efficiently.

[0125] [Effect 6]

[0126] Since the monitor 303 displays a replica of the operating device group 302, even if the dial operating device 305 and the button operating devices 306-309 of the operating device group 302 do not have their functions printed, it is easy to know the correspondence between the functions assigned to the dial operating device 305 and the button operating devices 306-309.

[0127] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the function allocation switching of the rotation operation of the dial operating device 305 is performed by operating the dial operating device 305 in the cross direction. However, it can be performed by operating in a direction different from the rotation operation of the dial operating device 305. For example, depending on the function number, it can be performed by operating in the I-shape, T-shape, or L-shape. In addition, in the above embodiment, the operation of the dial operating device 305 in the cross direction is performed by tilting (tilting) the dial operating device 305 up, down, left, or right. However, it can also be performed by sliding it up, down, left, or right.

[0128] [Summary of this implementation method]

[0129] As described above, the operating device 302 of this embodiment includes: a dial (dial operating device 305) that accepts rotational operations (located in the cab of the operating machinery consisting of an upper rotating body and a lower traveling body) and operations in a direction different from the rotational operation (cross direction); and a controller (control device 400 for operating device) that, when accepting an operation in a direction different from the rotational operation of the dial (cross direction), switches the function of the rotational operation assigned to the dial to at least one of the following functions, namely, an engine speed adjustment function (adjusting engine speed, i.e., a first adjustment function), an audio volume adjustment function (adjusting audio volume), and an air conditioning airflow adjustment function (adjusting air conditioning airflow), i.e., a second adjustment function (i.e., engine speed adjustment function and audio volume adjustment function, engine speed adjustment function and air conditioning airflow adjustment function, or engine speed adjustment function, audio volume adjustment function, and air conditioning airflow adjustment function), and exclusively assigns the function of at least one of the engine speed adjustment function (i.e., the first adjustment function) and the audio volume adjustment function or the air conditioning airflow adjustment function (i.e., the second adjustment function) to the rotational operation of the dial.

[0130] The operation in a direction different from the rotation operation of the dial is the tilting or sliding operation (cross direction) of the dial. That is, when the controller (control device 400 for operating device) receives the tilting or sliding operation (cross direction) of the dial, it switches the function of the rotation operation assigned to the dial to the function of at least one of the engine speed adjustment function, i.e., the first adjustment function, and the function of the audio volume adjustment function or the air conditioning fan speed adjustment function, i.e., the second adjustment function.

[0131] The controller (control device 400 for operating devices) switches the function of the rotation operation assigned to the dial to the engine speed adjustment function, the audio volume adjustment function, and the air conditioning fan speed adjustment function in a manner corresponding to an operation that is different from the rotation operation of the dial. The controller exclusively assigns any one of the functions of the engine speed adjustment function, the audio volume adjustment function, and the air conditioning fan speed adjustment function to the rotation operation of the dial. The switching order of the functions of the rotation operation assigned to the dial in a manner corresponding to an operation that is different from the rotation operation of the dial is that the engine speed adjustment function is located between the audio volume adjustment function and the air conditioning fan speed adjustment function.

[0132] When the controller (control device 400 for operating device) is configured to perform engine speed adjustment on the rotation of the dial, and then receives an operation in a direction different from the rotation of the dial (tilting to the right), it switches the function of the rotation operation configured to the dial to the audio volume adjustment function. When the controller is configured to perform engine speed adjustment on the rotation of the dial, and then receives an operation in the opposite direction (tilting to the left), it switches the function of the rotation operation configured to the dial to the air conditioning fan speed adjustment function.

[0133] When the controller (control device 400 for operating devices) is configured to perform engine speed adjustment on the rotation of the dial, and then receives an operation in a direction opposite to the rotation of the dial (tilting to the right), it switches the function of the rotation operation assigned to the dial to the audio volume adjustment function. Conversely, when the controller is configured to perform audio volume adjustment on the rotation of the dial, and then receives an operation in the opposite direction (tilting to the left), it switches the function of the rotation operation assigned to the dial to the audio volume adjustment function. The previously mentioned engine speed adjustment function, when the rotation operation of the dial is assigned the engine speed adjustment function and the dial is tilted to the left, switches the function of the rotation operation assigned to the dial to the air conditioning fan speed adjustment function. When the rotation operation of the dial is assigned the air conditioning fan speed adjustment function and the dial is tilted to the right, switches the function of the rotation operation assigned to the dial to the engine speed adjustment function (before switching to the air conditioning fan speed adjustment function).

[0134] The controller (control device 400 for operating devices) will assign the function of the rotation operation that was just assigned to the dial before the engine was turned off to the rotation operation of the dial when the engine is started next time.

[0135] A push-button (press-button operation device 306~309) is arranged near the dial, and the function is assigned according to the function of the rotation operation assigned to the dial.

[0136] Furthermore, the working machinery (hydraulic excavator 1) of this embodiment includes: a working machinery body 1B; a working device 1A, which is installed on the working machinery body 1B and performs work; an engine that drives the working device 1A; a cab 1f for the operator to ride in; a device for at least one of audio played in the cab 1f or an air conditioner that regulates the air in the cab 1f; a dial (dial operation device 305) that accepts rotational operations and operations in a different direction (cross direction); and a controller (control device 400 for the operation device) that, when accepting an operation in a different direction (cross direction) from the rotational operation of the dial, switches the function of the rotational operation assigned to the dial to an engine speed adjustment function that adjusts the engine speed. The second adjustment function is a function of at least one of the following: a first adjustment function, an audio volume adjustment function that adjusts the volume of the audio, or an air conditioning airflow adjustment function that adjusts the airflow of the air conditioner (i.e., an engine speed adjustment function and an audio volume adjustment function, an engine speed adjustment function and an air conditioning airflow adjustment function, or an engine speed adjustment function, an audio volume adjustment function, and an air conditioning airflow adjustment function). The rotation operation of the dial is exclusively assigned to any one of the following functions: the engine speed adjustment function (i.e., the first adjustment function) and the audio volume adjustment function or the air conditioning airflow adjustment function (i.e., the second adjustment function); and a (touch-operable) monitor 303, disposed in the cab 1f, displays the status of the function assigned to the rotation operation of the dial.

[0137] The device is equipped with push-button operation devices (306-309) that assign functions according to the rotation operation assigned to the dial. The monitor 303 displays the status of the rotation operation assigned to the dial and the status of the function assigned to the push-button.

[0138] The operation in a direction different from the rotation operation of the dial is the operation in the cross direction of the dial. In addition to switching the function assigned to the rotation operation of the dial, the operation in the cross direction of the dial can also be used for screen operation (cursor movement) within the monitor 303. When the operation in the cross direction of the dial can be used for screen operation (cursor movement) within the monitor 303, the rotation operation of the dial is set to invalid.

[0139] The operation in a different direction than the rotation operation of the dial is the pressing operation of the dial. Through the pressing operation of the dial, the operation of the dial in the cross direction can be used for screen operation (cursor movement) within the monitor 303, and the rotation operation of the dial is disabled.

[0140] The rotation operation of the dial is enabled by pressing it again after the initial pressing operation of the dial.

[0141] That is, in the operating device 302 of this embodiment, for example, in a dial having a rotating mechanism and a mechanism capable of tilting in a cross direction, the rotation operation of the dial can be exclusively assigned to the engine speed adjustment function, the audio volume adjustment function, and the air conditioning fan speed adjustment function. When the rotation operation of the dial is assigned to the engine speed adjustment function (first adjustment function), and the dial is tilted in one of the cross directions, the assignment of the rotation operation of the dial is switched to the audio volume adjustment function or the air conditioning fan speed adjustment function (second adjustment function). When the rotation operation of the dial is assigned to the audio volume adjustment function or the air conditioning fan speed adjustment function (second adjustment function), by tilting the dial in the opposite direction to when switching from the engine speed adjustment function (first adjustment function) to the audio volume adjustment function or the air conditioning fan speed adjustment function (second adjustment function), the assignment of the rotation operation of the dial is switched (returned) to the engine speed adjustment function (first adjustment function).

[0142] According to this embodiment, even if adjusting the engine speed during audio playback results in a perceived change in the volume of the audio, the audio volume can be adjusted immediately. Similarly, if adjusting the engine speed during air conditioning operation results in a requirement to adjust the air conditioning fan speed, the air conditioning fan speed can be adjusted immediately.

[0143] Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and includes various modifications. For example, the embodiments described above are detailed embodiments for the purpose of easily understanding and illustrating the present invention, and are not limited to having all the structures described. In addition, a part of the structure of a certain embodiment can be replaced with the structure of another embodiment, and it is also possible to add the structure of another embodiment to the structure of a certain embodiment. Furthermore, regarding a part of the structure of each embodiment, other structures can be added, deleted, or replaced.

[0144] Furthermore, the various structures, functions, and execution processes of the aforementioned control device 400 can be partially or entirely implemented in hardware (e.g., through integrated circuit design of logic to execute each function). Additionally, the structure of the control device 400 can be configured such that a program (software) that implements the functions of the control device 400 is read / executed by a processing unit (e.g., a CPU). 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 drives, optical disks, etc.).

[0145] Furthermore, in the above description of the embodiments, control lines and information lines are understood as necessary for the description of this embodiment, but do not necessarily represent all control lines and information lines of the product. In fact, it can be considered that almost all the structures are interconnected.

[0146] Symbol Explanation

[0147] 1. Hydraulic excavator (operating machinery)

[0148] 1A Working Device

[0149] 1B Body (Main Body of the Operating Machinery)

[0150] 1a Boom,

[0151] 1b Stick,

[0152] 1c Bucket,

[0153] 1d Upper Rotational Body

[0154] 1e Lower driving body,

[0155] 1f Driver's cab

[0156] 2. Hydraulic pump,

[0157] 3a~3f Hydraulic actuators

[0158] 4a~4f Operating lever devices

[0159] 5a~5f Flow control valves

[0160] 6. Overflow valve

[0161] 7. Control Unit

[0162] 301 lever (a safety device used to enable / disable the operation of 4a~4f)

[0163] 302 Operating device assembly (operating device)

[0164] 303 monitor,

[0165] 304 Engine starter

[0166] 305 Dial operating device (dial),

[0167] 306~309 Press-button operating device (press-type button)

[0168] 400 Control device (controller) for operating apparatus

[0169] 401 Engine start control device

[0170] 402 Input Decision Unit

[0171] 403 Switch Function Allocation Processing Unit

[0172] 404 switch function allocation storage unit

[0173] 405 Signal Output Section

[0174] 406 Display Processing Unit.

Claims

1. An operating device, characterized in that, have: A dial that accepts rotational operations and operations in the opposite direction to rotation. as well as The controller, when receiving an operation in a direction different from the rotation operation of the dial, switches the function of the rotation operation assigned to the dial to at least one of the following functions, namely, a first adjustment function (engine speed adjustment function to adjust engine speed), a second adjustment function (audio volume adjustment function to adjust audio volume), and an air conditioning fan speed adjustment function (air conditioning fan speed adjustment function to adjust air conditioning fan speed).

2. The operating device according to claim 1, characterized in that, Operations in a direction different from the rotational operation of the dial are operations in the tilting or sliding direction of the dial.

3. The operating device according to claim 1, characterized in that, Corresponding to an operation that receives a direction different from the rotation operation of the dial, the controller switches the function of the rotation operation assigned to the dial to the engine speed adjustment function, the audio volume adjustment function, and the air conditioning fan speed adjustment function. Corresponding to the operation that accepts a direction different from the rotation operation of the dial, the switching order of the functions assigned to the rotation operation of the dial is such that the engine speed adjustment function is located between the audio volume adjustment function and the air conditioning fan speed adjustment function.

4. The operating device according to claim 3, characterized in that, When the controller is configured to adjust the engine speed for the rotation of the dial, and then receives an operation in a direction different from the rotation of the dial, it switches the function of the rotation operation assigned to the dial to adjust the audio volume. When the rotation operation of the dial is assigned the engine speed adjustment function, and an operation in the opposite direction to the dial is received, the function of the rotation operation assigned to the dial is switched to the air conditioning fan speed adjustment function.

5. The operating device according to claim 3, characterized in that, When the controller is configured to adjust engine speed for the rotation of the dial, and then receives an operation in a direction opposite to the rotation of the dial, it switches the function of the rotation operation assigned to the dial to adjust audio volume. When the controller is configured to adjust audio volume for the rotation of the dial, and then receives an operation in the opposite direction, it switches the function of the rotation operation assigned to the dial to adjust engine speed. When the controller is configured to adjust engine speed for the rotation of the dial, and then receives an operation in the opposite direction, it switches the function of the rotation operation assigned to the dial to adjust air conditioning fan speed. When the controller is configured to adjust air conditioning fan speed for the rotation of the dial, and then receives an operation in one direction, it switches the function of the rotation operation assigned to the dial to adjust engine speed.

6. The operating device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The controller will assign the function of the rotation operation of the dial that was assigned to the dial before the engine was shut down to the rotation operation of the dial when the engine is started again.

7. The operating device according to claim 1, characterized in that, Near the dial are push-button buttons whose functions are assigned according to the rotational operation of the dial.

8. A type of operating machinery, characterized in that, have: Main body of the operating machinery; A working device, which is installed on the main body of the working machinery, performs the work; An engine that drives the working device; The operator's cab; The device includes at least one of the audio played in the cab and the air conditioning system that regulates the air in the cab; A dial that accepts rotational operations and operations in the opposite direction to rotation. The controller, when receiving an operation in a direction different from the rotation operation of the dial, switches the function of the rotation operation assigned to the dial to at least one of the following functions, namely, the first adjustment function (engine speed adjustment function to adjust the engine speed), the second adjustment function (audio volume adjustment function to adjust the audio volume), and the third adjustment function (air conditioning air volume adjustment function to adjust the air conditioning air volume). as well as A monitor, configured in the driver's cab, displays the status of the functions assigned to the rotary operation of the dial.

9. The operating machinery according to claim 8, characterized in that, The operation in a direction different from the rotation operation of the dial is the operation in the cross direction of the dial. In addition to switching the function assigned to the rotation operation of the dial, the operation in the cross direction of the dial can also be used for screen operation in the monitor. When the operation in the cross direction of the dial can be used for screen operation in the monitor, the rotation operation of the dial is set to invalid.

10. The operating machinery according to claim 9, characterized in that, The operation in a different direction than the rotation operation of the dial is the pressing operation of the dial. By pressing the dial, the operation of the dial in the cross direction is enabled for screen operation within the monitor, and the rotation operation of the dial is disabled.

11. The operating machinery according to claim 10, characterized in that, The rotation operation of the dial is enabled by pressing it again after the initial pressing operation of the dial.

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