Driver's cab and work vehicle

Abstract

Driver's cab (14), comprising: a driver's seat (31) provided on a floor surface (30); a control element (41) which is provided to the side of the driver's seat (31), wherein the control element (41) is actuated at least in the direction of the driver's seat (31); and an armrest (51) with an upper surface (52), wherein the armrest (51) is provided to the side of the driver's seat (31) behind the control unit (41), wherein a front section (52F) of the upper surface (52) is wider than a rear section (52R) of the upper surface (52), the front section (52F) of the upper surface (52) has an inclined section (81), and defined with the floor surface (30) as a reference, the inclined section (81) decreases in height towards the driver's seat (31), characterized by the fact that the upper surface (52) of the armrest (51) comprises a forward-leaning section (66) and a backward-leaning section (67), wherein the forward-leaning section (66) extends a predetermined length (L1) from a front end (71) of the upper surface (52) to the rear, and the backward-leaning section (67) extends a predetermined length (L2) from a rear end (72) of the upper surface (52) to the front, and the length (L1) of the forward-leaning section (66) in a forward / backward direction is greater than the length (L2) of the backward-leaning section (67) in the forward / backward direction.

Description

Technical area

[0001] The present invention relates to a driver's cab and a work vehicle. State of the art

[0002] For example, JP 2007 - 153 016 A discloses a wheel loader with a driver's seat, a right console box located to the right of the driver's seat, and an armrest and a work tool lever provided in the right console box.

[0003] US 8,714,049 B2 describes a driver's cab for work vehicles with a driver's seat on a floor platform and side-mounted controls. It includes an armrest with an upper surface of varying width and inclined sections designed for ergonomic support.

[0004] US 2008 / 0023250A1 describes an adjustable control system for work vehicles, including operator cabs with independently adjustable armrests and control handles. These elements allow for ergonomic adjustments for operators, aiming to improve comfort and control over the vehicle's tools. Summary of the invention: Technical problem

[0005] In the wheel loader described in JP 2007-153016A, the operator sits in the driver's seat and operates the implement lever with their arm (the forearm from the elbow to the wrist), which rests on the armrest. The position and angle of the operator's arm change when the operator operates the implement lever. Therefore, the armrest restricts the operator's arm movement when operating the implement lever, and the operator may not be able to operate the implement lever smoothly.

[0006] Therefore, an objective of the present invention is to provide a driver's cab and a work vehicle that enable smooth operation on a work section. Solution to the problem

[0007] A driver's cabin according to the present invention comprises a driver's seat, a control unit, and an armrest with an upper surface. The driver's seat is positioned on a floor surface. The control unit is located to the side of the driver's seat. The control unit is actuated at least in the direction of the driver's seat. The armrest is located to the side of the driver's seat behind the control unit. A front section of the upper surface is wider than a rear section of the upper surface. The front section of the upper surface has an inclined section. Defined with the floor surface as a reference, the inclined section decreases in height towards the driver's seat.The upper surface of the armrest comprises a forward-sloping section and a backward-sloping section, wherein the forward-sloping section extends a predetermined length from a front end of the upper surface to the rear, and the backward-sloping section extends a predetermined length from a rear end of the upper surface to the front, and the length of the forward-sloping section in a forward / backward direction is greater than the length of the backward-sloping section in the forward / backward direction.

[0008] The work vehicle according to the present invention comprises the driver's cab described above and a work device which is controlled using the control unit. Advantageous effects of the invention

[0009] According to the present invention, the driver's cab and the work vehicle can be provided that enable smooth operation on the control unit. Brief description of the drawings Fig. Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a hydraulic excavator in an embodiment of the present invention. Fig. Figure 2 is a perspective view showing a structure around a driver's seat in a driver's cabin. Fig. 1 shows. Fig. Figure 3 is another perspective view showing the structure around the driver's seat in the driver's cab. Fig. 1 shows. Fig. Figure 4 is a top view showing the structure around the driver's seat in the driver's cab. Fig. 1 shows. Fig. Figure 5 is a left side view showing the structure around the driver's seat in the driver's cab. Fig. 1 shows. Fig. Figure 6 is a top view showing the operation of a control lever in Fig. 4 points in forward / backward direction. Fig. Figure 7 is a top view showing the operation of the control lever in Fig. 4 points in a sideways direction. Fig. Figure 8 is a diagram that schematically shows the operation of the left and right control levers. Fig. Image 9 is a perspective view showing an armrest. Fig. Figure 10 is another perspective view showing the armrest. Fig. 11 is a top view showing the armrest in a direction that is in Fig. 9 is marked with an arrow XI. Fig. 12 is a left side view showing the armrest in a direction that is in Fig. 9 is marked with an arrow XII. Fig. 13 is a right-side view showing the armrest in a direction that is in Fig. 9 is marked with an arrow XIII. Fig. 14 is a front view showing the armrest in a direction that is in Fig. 9 is marked with an arrow XIV. Fig. 15 is a rear view showing the armrest in a direction that is in Fig. 9 is marked with an arrow XV. Fig. Figure 16 is a left side view showing the control lever operated in the forward / reverse direction and the armrest. Fig. Figure 17 is a left side view, schematically showing the movement of an operator's arm as it operates the control lever in the forward / reverse direction. Fig. Figure 18 is a left side view showing the control lever in a neutral position and the armrest. Fig. Figure 19 is a front view showing a modification of the shape of a tip of an upper surface. Fig. 20 is another left side view showing the structure around the driver's seat in the driver's cab. Fig. 1 shows. Fig. 21 is another left side view showing the structure around the driver's seat in the driver's cab. Fig. 1 shows. Fig. Figure 22 is a front view showing a situation in which operators of different body types are seated. Fig. Figure 23 is a perspective view showing the armrest in an area defined by the double-dashed line XXIII in Fig. is surrounded by 10. Fig. 24 is a cross-sectional view showing the armrest in a direction indicated by an arrow XXIV-XXIV in Fig. 23 is shown. Fig. Figure 25 is a front view showing the control lever operated in a side direction and the armrest. Description of the embodiments

[0010] One embodiment of the present disclosure is described with reference to the drawings. Identical or corresponding elements in the drawings, which are referenced below, are identified by the same reference numerals. [Description of the overall structure of the hydraulic excavator]

[0011] Fig. Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a hydraulic excavator in an embodiment of the present disclosure. First, the overall structure of the hydraulic excavator in the present embodiment is described.

[0012] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, a hydraulic excavator 100 comprises a vehicle body 11 and a working device 12. The vehicle body 11 includes a rotary unit 13 and a travel device 15.

[0013] The travel device 15 comprises a pair of crawler tracks 15Cr and a travel motor 15M. The hydraulic excavator 100 can move when the crawler tracks 15Cr are rotating. The travel motor 15M serves as the power source for the travel device 15. The travel device 15 may include wheels (tires).

[0014] The rotary unit 13 is mounted on the drive mechanism 15. The rotary unit 13 can rotate about a pivot point 26 with respect to the drive mechanism 15. The pivot point 26 is related to an axis extending in an upward / downward direction. The rotary unit 13 includes a driver's cab 14. The driver's cab 14 defines an interior space into which an operator enters. A driver's seat 31 is provided in the driver's cab 14. The driver's seat 31 is located on a floor surface 30 of the driver's cab 14. The operator sits on the driver's seat 31 and operates the hydraulic excavator 100.

[0015] The present disclosure is also applicable to a driver's cab of a work vehicle which is designed such that the driver's seat is provided in an external space.

[0016] The rotary unit 13 comprises a motor housing 19 and a counterweight located in the rear of the rotary unit 13. The motor housing 19 contains a motor, a hydraulic oil tank, an air filter, a hydraulic pump, and similar components.

[0017] The working device 12 is attached to the vehicle body 11. The working device 12 is attached to the rotating unit 13. The working device 12 performs, for example, excavation work on the ground. The working device 12 comprises a boom 16, an arm 17, and a bucket 18.

[0018] The boom 16 is pivotally connected to the vehicle body 11 (rotary unit 13) via a boom bolt 23. The arm 17 is pivotally connected to the boom 16 via a arm bolt 24. The bucket 18 is pivotally connected to the arm 17 via a bucket bolt 25.

[0019] The working device 12 also includes a boom cylinder 20A and a boom cylinder 20B, an arm cylinder 21 and a bucket cylinder 22.

[0020] Boom cylinder 20A, boom cylinder 20B, arm cylinder 21, and bucket cylinder 22 are hydraulic cylinders driven by hydraulic oil. Boom cylinder 20A and boom cylinder 20B are arranged as a pair on opposite sides of the boom 16 and actuate the boom 16 for pivoting. Arm cylinder 21 actuates the arm 17 for pivoting. Bucket cylinder 22 actuates the bucket 18 for pivoting.

[0021] In the following description, a forward / backward direction refers to the forward / backward direction of an operator seated in the driver's seat 31. A direction in which the operator seated in the driver's seat 31 is facing is defined as the forward direction, and a direction behind the operator seated in the driver's seat 31 is defined as the backward direction. A lateral (sideways) direction refers to the sideways direction of the operator seated in the driver's seat 31. A right side and a left side at the time the operator seated in the driver's seat 31 is facing forward are defined as the right direction and left direction, respectively. An up / down direction is a direction orthogonal to the plane that includes the forward / backward direction and the lateral direction. A side on which the ground is located is defined as the bottom, and a side on which the sky is located is defined as the top.

[0022] Fig. 2 and Fig. Three are perspective views showing a structure around the driver's seat in the driver's cab. Fig. Show 1. Fig. Figure 4 is a top view showing the structure around the driver's seat in the driver's cab. Fig. 1 shows. Fig. Figure 5 is a left side view showing the structure around the driver's seat in the driver's cab. Fig. 1 shows.

[0023] As in the Fig. As shown in Figures 2 to 5, the driver's seat 31 comprises a seat cushion 33, a backrest 32, a headrest 35 and a suspension mechanism 36.

[0024] The seat cushion 33 is a seat component on which an operator sits. The backrest 32 is designed to rise upwards from a rear end of the seat cushion 33. The backrest 32 is a seat component that serves as a back support for the operator. A headrest 35 is attached to an upper end of the backrest 32. The headrest 35 is a seat component that supports the operator's head.

[0025] The suspension mechanism 36 is arranged between the seat cushion 33 and the base 30 in an upward / downward direction. The suspension mechanism 36 provides elastic support for the seat cushion 33.

[0026] The driver's cab 14 comprises a console 37 (37R and 37L) and a control lever 41 (41R and 41L). The console 37 is located to the side of the driver's seat 31. The console 37R is located to the right of the driver's seat 31. The console 37L is located to the left of the driver's seat 31.

[0027] Console 37R and console 37L are arranged symmetrically with respect to the driver's seat 31.

[0028] Console 37 has the form of a housing. Console 37 has this elongated shape so that the forward / backward direction is defined as the longitudinal direction and the transverse direction as the short side direction in a top view. Console 37 is positioned above a region transverse to the seat cushion 33 in an upward / downward direction. Console 37 is positioned above a region that lies in the forward / backward direction above the seat cushion 33 and the backrest 32. A space above the seat cushion 33 is enclosed on three sides—a right side, a rear side, and a left side—by console 37R, the backrest 32, and console 37L, and opens forward.

[0029] The control lever 41 is located to the side of the driver's seat 31. A control lever 41R is located on the right side of the driver's seat 31. A control lever 41L is provided on the left side of the driver's seat 31.

[0030] Control lever 41R and control lever 41L are arranged symmetrically with respect to the driver's seat 31.

[0031] The control lever 41 is attached to the console 37. The control lever 41 projects upwards from the console 37. In a top view, the control lever 41 is located closer to the front end of the console 37 than to the rear end of the console 37. The control lever 41 is located in front of the backrest 32. The control lever 41 is located above the seat cushion 33.

[0032] The control lever 41 includes a handle 42. The handle 42 is designed to be held by the operator. The handle 42 extends like a shaft around a central axis 110. The handle 42 has a column-like shape, with the central axis 110 defined as its center. The handle 42 is positioned so that the central axis 110 extends in an upward / downward direction. The control lever 41 can be tilted, with a lower end of the handle 42 defined as its center.

[0033] The handle 42 is not limited to a column-shaped handle as above. For example, the handle can be provided in such a horizontal position that the central axis 110 extends horizontally, or it can have an arcuate, curved shape.

[0034] Fig. Figure 6 is a top view showing forward / reverse operation of the control lever. Fig. 4 shows. Fig. Figure 7 is a top view showing the operation of the control lever in Fig. 4 points in a lateral direction. Fig. Figure 8 is a diagram that schematically shows the operation of the left and right control levers.

[0035] As in the Fig. 6 and Fig. As shown in Figure 8, the control lever 41 is operated at least in the forward / reverse direction. The control lever 41 is operated by the operator to control the operation of the working device 12.

[0036] The control lever 41 can be tilted between a neutral position (41A: a position represented by a control lever 41A) and a forward position (41B: a position represented by a control lever 41B), which is shifted forward from the neutral position (41A). The control lever 41 can be tilted between the neutral position (41A) and a rearward position (41C: a position represented by a control lever 41C), which is shifted rearward from the neutral position (41A).

[0037] The control lever 41 activates the implement 12 when it is in the forward position (41B) and the rear position (41C). The control lever 41 automatically returns from the forward position (41B) and the rear position (41C) to the neutral position (41A) when it receives, for example, an elastic force from a spring element (not shown). When the control lever 41 is in the neutral position (41A), the implement 12 remains stationary.

[0038] For example, when the left control lever 41L is in the forward position (41B), a tilting operation is performed with the arm 17, and when the left control lever 41L is in the rear position (41C), an excavation operation is performed with the arm 17. When the right control lever 41R is in the forward position (41B), an operation to lower the boom 16 is performed, and when the right control lever 41R is in the rear position (41C), an operation to raise the boom 16 is performed.

[0039] As in the Fig. 7 and Fig. As shown in Figure 8, the control lever 41 is actuated at least in the direction of the driver's seat 31. The control lever 41 is actuated in the lateral direction. The control lever 41 is actuated by the operator to control the operation of the work device 12.

[0040] The control lever 41 can be tilted between the neutral position (41A: the position indicated by a control lever 41A) and an inward position (41D: a position indicated by a control lever 41D) that is shifted laterally from the neutral position (41A) toward the driver's seat 31 (hereinafter also referred to as "inwardly along the side"). The control lever 41 can be tilted between the neutral position (41A) and an outward position (41E: a position indicated by a control lever 41E) that is shifted laterally from the neutral position (41A) away from the driver's seat 31 (hereinafter also referred to as "outwardly along the side").

[0041] The control lever 41 activates the working device 12 when it is in the inner position (41D) and the outer section (41E). The control lever 41 automatically returns from the inner position (41D) and the outer position (41E) to the neutral position (41A) when, for example, it receives an elastic force from the spring element (not shown). When the control lever 41 is in the neutral position (41A), the working device 12 remains stationary.

[0042] When the left control lever 41L is in the inner position (41D), the implement 12 rotates to the right, for example, and when the left control lever 41L is in the outer position (41E), the implement 12 rotates to the left. When the right control lever 41R is moved to the inner position (41D), an excavation operation is performed with the bucket 18, and when the right control lever 41R is moved to the outer position (41E), a tipping operation is performed with the bucket 18.

[0043] The control lever 41 can also be tilted into a position between two adjacent positions circumferentially around the neutral position (41A). For example, the left control lever 41L can also be tilted into a position intermediate between the front position (41B) and the outer position (41E), and in this case, the tilting action is performed simultaneously by the arm 17 and the left rotation of the working device 12.

[0044] As in the Fig. As shown in figures 2 to 5, the driver's cab 14 also includes an armrest 51 (51R and 51L).

[0045] Armrest 51 is attached to the side of the driver's seat 31. Armrest 51R is located on the right side of the driver's seat 31. Armrest 51L is attached to the left side of the driver's seat 31. Armrest 51 is located behind the control lever 41. Armrest 51R is located behind the control lever 41R. Armrest 51L is located behind the control lever 41L.

[0046] Armrest 51R and armrest 51L are arranged symmetrically with respect to the driver's seat 31.

[0047] The armrest 51 is attached to the console 37, with an armrest support 53 positioned between them. The armrest 51 is mounted above the console 37. In plan view, the armrest 51 is positioned closer to the rear end of the console 37 than to the front end. The armrest 51 is located above the seat cushion 33. The control lever 41 and the armrest 51 are mounted above the console 37, oriented in the forward / reverse direction. The armrest 51 is positioned rearward of the control lever 41.

[0048] The armrest 51 is used as a support for the operator's elbow. In a representative form, the armrest 51 comprises a metal plate material that forms a skeleton of the armrest 51, a padding material (a urethane foam or similar) that is elastic and covers the plate material, and a cover that covers one surface of the padding material. [Description of the armrest](Regarding the overall shape of the armrest)

[0049] A special form of the armrest 51 is described below. Fig. 9 and Fig. 10 are perspective views showing the armrest. Fig. 11 is a top view showing the armrest in a direction that is in Fig. 9 is marked with an arrow XI. Fig. 12 is a left side view showing the armrest in a direction that is in Fig. 9 is marked with an arrow XII. Fig. 13 is a right-side view showing the armrest in a direction that is in Fig. 9 is marked with an arrow XIII. Fig. 14 is a front view showing the armrest in a direction that is in Fig. 9 is marked with an arrow XIV. Fig. 15 is a rear view showing the armrest in a direction that is in Fig. 9 is marked with an arrow XV.

[0050] The left armrest 51L and the right armrest 51R have a symmetrical shape to each other. Fig. Figures 9 to 15 show the left armrest 51L, and one form of the armrest 51 is described below as representative of the left armrest 51L.

[0051] As in the Fig. As shown in Figures 9 to 15, the armrest 51 includes an upper surface 52. The upper surface 52 faces upwards. The upper surface 52 serves as an elbow resting surface on which the operator's elbow rests. The upper surface 52 generally has an elongated shape such that the forward / backward direction is defined as the longitudinal direction and the transverse direction as the short side direction.

[0052] The upper surface 52 comprises a front end 71, a rear end 72, an inner side end 74 and an outer side end 75.

[0053] The front end 71 is located at a front end of the upper surface 52. The rear end 72 is located at a rear end of the upper surface 52. The inner side end 74 is located at a lateral end of the upper surface 52 near the driver's seat 31. The outer side end 75 is located at a lateral end of the upper surface 52 that is laterally distant from the driver's seat 31. The upper surface 52 extends over an area enclosed by the front end 71, the rear end 72, the inner side end 74, and the outer side end 75.

[0054] The armrest 51 further comprises a front surface 61, a back surface 62, an inner surface 55 and an outer surface 59.

[0055] The front surface 61 faces forward. The front surface 61 extends two-dimensionally in a lateral direction. The front surface 61 is opposite the control lever 41 in the forward / reverse direction. The rear surface 62 faces backward. The rear surface 62 extends two-dimensionally in a lateral direction.

[0056] The inner surface 55 faces the driver's seat 31 laterally. The inner surface 55 extends two-dimensionally in a forward / rearward direction. The inner surface 55 has a front end and a rear end, which are connected to the front surface 61 and the rear surface 62, respectively. The outer surface 59 faces a side that is laterally opposite the driver's seat 31. The outer surface 59 extends two-dimensionally in a forward / rearward direction. The outer surface 59 has a front end and a rear end, which are connected to the front surface 61 and the rear surface 62, respectively.

[0057] The front surface 61, the inner surface 55, the rear surface 62, and the outer surface 59 have upper ends that are connected to the upper surface 52. The front surface 61 is connected at its upper end to the front end 71 of the upper surface 52, with a chamfered surface 63f between them. The upper end of the inner surface 55 is connected to the inner side end 74 of the upper surface 52, with a chamfered surface 63i between them. The upper end of the rear surface 62 is connected to the rear end 72 of the upper surface 52, with a chamfered surface 63r between them. The upper end of the outer surface 59 is connected to the outer side end 75 of the upper surface 52, with a chamfered surface 63j between them.

[0058] The chamfered surface 63f, the chamfered surface 63i, the chamfered surface 63r, and the chamfered surface 63j are each formed from a curved surface. The chamfered surface 63f, the chamfered surface 63i, the chamfered surface 63r, and the chamfered surface 63j can each be formed from a plane. A corner between the upper surface 52 and the front surface 61, the inner surface 55, the rear surface 62, and the outer surface 59 need not be chamfered as described above.

[0059] (Regarding the forward-sloping section and the backward-sloping section of the upper surface)

[0060] Fig. Figure 16 is a left side view showing the control lever operated in the forward / reverse direction and the armrest.

[0061] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 16, the upper surface 52 also comprises a forward-inclined section 66 and a rearward-inclined section 67. The rearward-inclined section 67 is located behind the forward-inclined section 66. The forward-inclined section 66 is situated between the control lever 41 and the rearward-inclined section 67 in the forward / reverse direction.

[0062] If the base surface 30 is defined as the reference, the height Ha of the front inclined section 66 decreases in the direction of the front end 71 of the upper surface 52 in the forward / backward direction. If the base surface 30 is defined as the reference, the height Hb of the rear inclined section 67 decreases in the direction of the rear end 72 of the upper surface 52 in the forward / backward direction.

[0063] The upper surface 52 also includes a peak 73. With the base surface 30 as a reference, the height Hmax of the peak 73 is the highest of the heights of the upper surface 52, which vary depending on the position in the forward / backward direction. In plan view, the peak 73 extends in the form of a line along the side. In plan view, the peak 73 extends straight in the side direction.

[0064] The forward-leaning section 66 extends a prescribed length rearward from the front end 71 of the upper surface 52. The rearward-leaning section 67 extends a prescribed length in front of the rear end 72 of the upper surface 52. The forward-leaning section 66 extends from the front end 71 of the upper surface 52 to the tip 73 in the forward / reverse direction. The rearward-leaning section 67 extends from the tip 73 to the rear end 72 of the upper surface 52 in the forward / reverse direction.

[0065] The tip 73 is not limited to a construction that extends straight sideways in plan view, but can also be formed from a horizontal surface extending over a prescribed length in the forward / backward direction. In this case, the front inclined section 66 and the rear inclined section 67 are spaced apart from each other in the forward / backward direction, with the tip 73 situated between them.

[0066] A minimum height of the front inclined section 66, where the floor surface 30 is defined as a reference, is lower than a minimum height of the rear inclined section 67, where the floor surface 30 is defined as a reference.

[0067] The minimum height of the forward-sloping section 66, where the base surface 30 is defined as the reference, corresponds to a height Hf of the front end 71, where the base surface 30 is defined as the reference. A maximum height of the forward-sloping section 66, where the base surface 30 is defined as the reference, corresponds to the height Hmax of the tip 73, where the base surface 30 is defined as the reference. A minimum height of the backward-sloping section 67, where the base surface 30 is defined as the reference, corresponds to a height Hr of the rear end 72, where the base surface 30 is defined as the reference. A maximum height of the backward-sloping section 67, where the base surface 30 is defined as the reference, corresponds to the height Hmax of the tip 73, where the base surface 30 is defined as the reference.

[0068] A length L1 of the forward-leaning section 66 in the forward / backward direction (a length between the front end 71 and the tip 73 in the forward / backward direction) is longer than a length L2 of the backward-leaning section 67 in the forward / backward direction (a length between the tip 73 and the rear end 72 in the forward / backward direction) (L1 > L2). The tip 73 is located closer to the rear end 72 than to the front end 71 in the forward / backward direction.

[0069] The length L1 of the forward-leaning section 66 in the forward / backward direction is at least half of the total length L of the armrest 51 in the forward / backward direction. The length L2 of the backward-leaning section 67 in the forward / backward direction is shorter than half of the total length L of the armrest 51 in the forward / backward direction.

[0070] The sum (L1 + L2) of the length L1 of the forward-leaning section 66 in the forward / backward direction and the length L2 of the backward-leaning section 67 in the forward / backward direction can be equal to or greater than 80% or 90% of the total length L of the armrest 51 in the forward / backward direction.

[0071] The minimum height of the forward-leaning section 66 with the base surface 30 as a reference can be equal to or greater than the minimum height of the backward-leaning section 67 with the base surface 30 as a reference. The length L1 of the forward-leaning section 66 in the forward / backward direction can be equal to or shorter than the length L2 of the backward-leaning section 67 in the forward / backward direction (L1 ≤ L2). The tip 73 can be located at a position between the front end 71 and the rear end 72 in the forward / backward direction, or closer to the front end 71 than to the rear end 72.

[0072] The forward-inclined section 66 is formed by a curved surface that extends in a forward / backward curve. Viewed laterally, the forward-inclined section 66 extends in an arc between the front end 71 and the tip 73.

[0073] The backward-sloping section 67 is formed from a curved surface that extends as a curve in the forward / backward direction. Viewed laterally, the backward-sloping section 67 extends in an arc between the tip 73 and the rear end 72.

[0074] The curved surface forming the forward-leaning section 66 has a curvature of 1 / Ra. The curved surface forming the backward-leaning section 67 has a curvature of 1 / Rb, which is equal to the curvature 1 / Ra (1 / Ra = 1 / Rb). The curved surfaces forming the forward-leaning section 66 and the backward-leaning section 67 have a constant curvature from the front end 71 to the rear end 72.

[0075] The curvature 1 / Ra can differ in magnitude from the curvature 1 / Rb. In this case, the curvature 1 / Ra can be greater (1 / Ra > 1 / Rb) or smaller (1 / Ra < 1 / Rb) than the curvature 1 / Rb. The forward-sloping section 66 can be formed from a plurality of curved surfaces that differ in their curvature and are oriented in the forward / backward direction. The backward-sloping section 67 can be formed from a plurality of curved surfaces that differ in their curvature and are oriented in the forward / backward direction.

[0076] At least one of the forward-inclined section 66 and the backward-inclined section 67 can be formed from a plane. The forward-inclined section 66 can include at least one curved surface and at least one plane. The backward-inclined section 67 can include at least one curved surface and at least one plane.

[0077] The height of the forward position (41B), where floor area 30 is defined as the reference, is lower than the height of the neutral position (41A), where floor area 30 is defined as the reference. The height of the neutral position (41A), where floor area 30 is defined as the reference, is lower than the height of the aft position (41C), where floor area 30 is defined as the reference.

[0078] The control lever 41 is designed to be tiltable, with a center of rotation G defined as its midpoint. The handle 42 includes a tip end 43W. The tip end 43W is a tip end portion of the handle 42 when the control lever 41 is viewed from the side. When viewed from the side, the tip end 43W corresponds to an end of the handle 42 that is opposite the center of rotation G of the control lever 41. When the control lever 41 is viewed from the side, the tip end 43W and the center of rotation G are located on the central axis 110.

[0079] While the control lever 41 is tilted between the forward position (41B), the neutral position (41A), and the rear position (41C), the tip end 43W of the handle 42, viewed from the side, moves as a drawing of a track 120 in an arc shape. In this case, the curvature 1 / Ra of the curved surface forming the forward-leaning section 66 is smaller than the curvature 1 / r of the track 120 in the arc shape (1 / Ra < 1 / r), and the curvature 1 / Rb of the curved surface forming the backward-leaning section 67 is smaller than the curvature 1 / r of the track 120 in the arc shape (1 / Rb < 1 / r).

[0080] The curvature 1 / Ra of the curved surface forming the forward-sloping section 66 may be equal to or greater than the curvature 1 / r of the track 120 in the arc shape (1 / Ra ≥ 1 / r) and the curvature 1 / Rb of the curved surface forming the backward-sloping section 67 may be equal to or greater than the curvature 1 / r of the track 120 in the arc shape (1 / Rb ≥ 1 / r).

[0081] Fig. Figure 17 is a left side view, schematically showing the movement of an operator's arm as it operates the control lever in the forward / reverse direction.

[0082] As in the Fig. 5, Fig. 16 and Fig. As shown in Figure 17, the operator, in a general operating position, operates the control lever 41 while holding the handle 42 in his / her palm, with his / her forearm resting on the upper surface 52 of the armrest 51.

[0083] The operator's upper arm extends forward and diagonally downward from a shoulder joint C and is bent at an elbow D (Da, Db, or Dc). The operator's forearm extends forward and diagonally downward from elbow D (Da, Db, or Dc) at an angle closer to the horizontal than the angle between the shoulder joint C and elbow D (Da, Db, or Dc). When extended, with the operator's forearm extending diagonally downward from elbow D (Da, Db, or Dc), the operator holds the handle 42 of the control lever 41 in their palm E (Ea, Eb, or Ec).

[0084] Fig. Figure 17 shows the operator's arm when the control lever 41 is in the neutral position (41A), with line 310A, the operator's arm when the control lever 41 is in the forward position (41B), with line 310B, and the operator's arm when the control lever 41 is in the rear position (41C), with line 310C.

[0085] When the operator tilts the control lever 41 between the neutral position (41A), the forward position (41B) and the rear position (41C) in a forward / backward direction, the operator moves a position of his / her palm E, in which the handle 42 is held, in a forward / backward direction while the operator keeps the shoulder joint C in a fixed position.

[0086] In this case, the position of the operator's elbow D moves in an arc around the shoulder joint C, and the position and inclination of the operator's arm (forearm) are varied on the upper surface 52 of the armrest 51. In the driver's cab 14, the upper surface 52 of the armrest 51 is shaped to accommodate the movement of the operator's arm (forearm) when operating the control lever 41 in the forward / reverse direction, thus simplifying operation of the control lever 41 by the operator.

[0087] More precisely, when the operator tilts the control lever 41 forward from the neutral position (41A) towards the forward position (41B), the position of the elbow D moves forward and diagonally upward along the arc, and the operator's forearm is tilted diagonally downward as the forearm moves forward.

[0088] In the driver's cab 14, the upper surface 52 of the armrest 51 includes the forward-sloping section 66. If the floor surface 30 is defined as the reference, the forward-sloping section 66 decreases in height Ha towards the front end 71 of the upper surface 52 in the forward / backward direction. According to this design, the forward-sloping section 66 has a shape that corresponds to the movement of the operator's forearm when tilting the control lever 41 forward from the neutral position (41A) towards the forward position (41B). Therefore, it is less likely that the operator's forearm, while operating the control lever 41, will come into contact with the upper surface 52.

[0089] When the operator tilts the control lever 41 from the neutral position (41A) backwards to the rear position (41C), the position of the elbow D moves in an arc backwards and diagonally downwards.

[0090] In the driver's cab 14, the upper surface 52 of the armrest 51 includes a rearwardly inclined section 67. If the floor surface 30 is defined as the reference, the height Hb of the rearwardly inclined section 67 decreases towards the rear end 72 of the upper surface 52 in the forward / backward direction. According to this design, the rearwardly inclined section 67 has a shape that corresponds to the movement of the operator's elbow when tilting the control lever 41 backward from the neutral position (41A) towards the rear position (41C). Therefore, it is less likely that the operator's forearm, while operating the control lever 41, will come into contact with the upper surface 52.

[0091] For this reason, the operator can smoothly operate the control lever 41 between the neutral position (41A), the forward position (41B) and the rear position (41C).

[0092] In the driver's cab 14, a forward-leaning section 66 is provided, extending from the front end 71 of the upper surface 52 to the tip 73 in the forward / reverse direction, and a rearward-leaning section 67 is provided, extending from the tip 73 to the rear end 72 of the upper surface 72 in the forward / reverse direction. According to this design, the upper surface 52 forms a projecting shape that extends upwards between the front end 71 and the rear end 72. Therefore, the shape of the upper surface 52 can further adapt to the movement of the operator's arm when tilting the control lever 41 in the forward / reverse direction between the neutral position (41A), the forward position (41B), and the rear position (41C). Consequently, the operator can operate the control lever 41 more smoothly.

[0093] If the operator attempts to change the tilt of the arm or move its position forwards / backwards while resting their arm on the upper surface 52 when operating the control lever 41, the arm's movement may be hindered by excessive friction between the tip 73 and the operator's arm, or by the operator's arm becoming caught on the tip 73. In the driver's cab 14, the tip 73 extends straight laterally in a top view. Since the operator's arm is thus supported on the tip 73 of the upper surface 52 in a straight, lateral position, the operator can easily change the tilt of their arm or move its position forwards / backwards.

[0094] The forward-leaning section 66 and the backward-leaning section 67 are each formed from the curved surface that extends in a curved direction in the forward / backward direction. Since the operator's arm is thus supported in the straight area along the lateral direction, the operator can more easily change the inclination of their arm or move the position of the arm in the forward / backward direction on the upper surface 52, both on the forward-leaning section 66 and the backward-leaning section 67.

[0095] The curved surfaces forming the forward-leaning section 66 and the backward-leaning section 67 have a constant curvature between the front end 71 of the upper surface 52 and the rear end 72 of the upper surface 52. The operator can thus achieve a smooth effect of facilitating changes in the tilt of the arm or shifting the position of the arm in the forward / backward direction, regardless of the position of the upper surface 52 on which the operator's arm is placed.

[0096] Fig. Figure 18 is a left side view showing the control lever and armrest in the neutral position.

[0097] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 18, the handle 42 further comprises a root 44W. The root 44W is a root portion of the handle 42 when the control lever 41 is viewed from the side. When viewed from the side, the root 44W corresponds to an end of the handle 42 located on the side of the control lever 41's center of rotation G. When viewed from the side, the root 44W lies on the central axis 110.

[0098] A virtual straight line 130 is assumed to extend rearward from the root 44W of the control lever 41 when the control lever 41 is in the neutral position (41A) and in contact with the forward-inclined section 66. The virtual straight line 130 corresponds to a tangential line that makes contact with the forward-inclined section 66 at a contact point Q and extends in an arc. The front end 71 of the upper surface 52 is located below the virtual straight line 130.

[0099] According to this design, when the control lever 41 is in the neutral position (41A), the operator's upper arm, holding the handle 42, can be considered to be positioned above the virtual line 130 extending from the root 44W of the control lever 41 towards the contact Q. In this case, the front end 71 of the upper surface 52 is located below the virtual line 130. Therefore, the operator's arm, resting on the upper surface 52, is positioned slightly away from the front end 71 of the upper surface 52. Thus, when the control lever 41 is tilted from the neutral position (41A) to the forward position (41B) or the rear position (41C), it is less likely that the operator's arm will become caught on the front end 71 of the upper surface 52.

[0100] Fig. Figure 19 is a front view showing a change in the shape of the tip of the upper surface. Fig. 19 corresponds Fig. 14.

[0101] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 19, in the present modification the tip 73 is bent downwards in the side view. In the front view, the tip 73 extends laterally in a curved shape. In the front view, the tip 73 has the shape of an arc that projects upwards. The upper surface 52 connects seamlessly to the tip 73 and at points around the tip 73.

[0102] According to such a design, the operator can easily move the arm positioned on the upper surface 52 laterally. Therefore, the operator can also smoothly operate the control lever 41 between the neutral position (41A), the inner position (41D), and the outer position (41E) (see Fig. 7). (Regarding the front part of the upper surface)

[0103] As in the Fig. 4 and Fig. As shown in Figure 7, the upper surface 52 further comprises a front section 52F and a rear section 52R. The front section 52F extends a prescribed length rearward from the front end 71. The rear section 52R extends a prescribed length forward of the rear end 72.

[0104] The width B1 of the front section 52F of the upper surface 52 is greater than the width B2 of the rear section 52R of the upper surface 52 (B1 > B2). Here, a lateral length is referred to as width.

[0105] The front section 52F of the upper surface 52 projects laterally towards the driver's seat 31 relative to the rear section 52R of the upper surface 52. A lateral length from a center line 101 of the driver's seat 31, extending forward / backward to the inner side end 74 in the front section 52F of the upper surface 52, is shorter than a lateral length from the center line 101 of the driver's seat 31, extending forward / backward to the inner side end 74 in the rear section 52R of the upper surface 52.

[0106] When tilting the control lever 41 laterally between the neutral position (41A), the inner position (41D), and the outer position (41E), the operator shifts the position of the palm holding the handle 42 laterally, while keeping the elbow fixed on the upper surface 52. In this case, the operator's forearm (wrist) swings laterally on the upper surface 52.

[0107] In the driver's cab 14, the width B1 of the front part 52F of the upper surface 52 is greater than the width B2 of the rear part 52R of the upper surface 52. According to such a design, the operator's forearm (especially the wrist) can be continuously supported on the front section 52F of the upper surface 52, even when the operator's forearm swings laterally as the operator operates the control lever 41.

[0108] Fig. 20 and Fig. 21 are left side views showing the structure around the driver's seat in the driver's cab. Fig. 1 show. As in the Fig. 5, Fig. 20 and Fig. As shown in Figure 21, the driver's seat 31 is arranged to be movable in the forward / backward direction. The driver's seat 31 is arranged to be movable in the forward / backward direction independently of the console 37, the control lever 41 and the armrest 51.

[0109] When the driver's seat 31 is moved in the forward / reverse direction, the driver's seat 31 will be in any position between one in Fig. 20 shown front end position, which in Fig. 5 intermediate positions shown and one in Fig. The rear end position shown in section 21 is positioned. According to such a design, the position of the driver's seat 31 in the forward / reverse direction can be adjusted in accordance with the operator's physique.

[0110] Fig. Figure 20 shows the arm of a lightly built operator, Fig. Figure 5 shows the arm of an operator of medium stature and Fig. Figure 21 shows the arm of a tall operator.

[0111] Generally, the shorter the operator's arm length, the shorter the operator's height. Therefore, when control lever 41 is actuated, position 250 (see Fig. 5), in which the elbow of an operator of average height rests on the armrest 51, relative to a position 260 (see Fig. 21), in which the elbow of a tall operator rests on the armrest 51, shifted forward. A position 255 (see Fig. 20), in which the elbow of the operator of short stature rests on the armrest 51, is relative to a position 250 (see Fig. 5), in which the elbow of the operator of average height rests on the armrest 51, shifted forward.

[0112] Fig. Figure 22 is a front view showing a situation in which operators of different body types are sitting in the driver's seat. Fig. 22 A case in which an operator 230 of tall stature sits in the driver's seat 31, a case in which an operator 220 of medium stature sits in the driver's seat 31, and a case in which an operator 210 of light stature sits in the driver's seat 31 are compared.

[0113] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 22, the operator's shoulder width is generally smaller the shorter their stature. Therefore, when the control lever 41 is actuated, position 225, in which the elbow of an operator 220 of medium stature rests on the armrest 51, is shifted laterally inwards relative to position 235, in which the elbow of an operator 230 of tall stature rests on the armrest 51. Similarly, position 215, in which the elbow of an operator 210 of short stature rests on the armrest 51, is shifted laterally inwards relative to position 225, in which the elbow of an operator 220 of medium stature rests on the armrest 51.

[0114] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, on the hydraulic excavator 100, the front section 52F of the upper surface 52 projects laterally towards the operator's seat 31 relative to the rear section 52R of the upper surface 52. According to this design, if the operator is of short stature sitting in the operator's seat 31, the operator's elbow can be supported on the front section 52F of the upper surface 52, and if the operator is of tall stature sitting in the operator's seat 31, the operator's elbow can be supported on the rear section 52R of the upper surface 52. The operator can thus easily operate the control lever 41 regardless of their height, with their elbow resting on the armrest 51.

[0115] Since the front section 52F of the upper surface 52 projects laterally relative to the rear section 52R of the upper surface 52 towards the driver's seat 31, the armrest 51 can be shaped such that the side of the rear section 52R moves laterally away from the driver's seat 31 relative to the side of the front section 52F. This ensures that, when a particularly tall operator is seated in the driver's seat 31, ample space remains between the operator's lower back and the armrest 51, thus preventing compression of the operator's lower back by the armrest 51.

[0116] Fig. Figure 23 is a perspective view showing the armrest in an area that is in Fig. 10 is surrounded by a chain-shaped double-dotted line XXIII. Fig. 24 is a cross-sectional view showing the armrest in a direction indicated by an arrow XXIV-XXIV in Fig. 23 is shown.

[0117] As in the Fig. 4, Fig. 23 and Fig. As shown in Figure 24, the front section 52F of the upper surface 52 includes an inclined section 81. If the floor surface 30 is defined as the reference, the height Hs of the inclined section 81 decreases towards the driver's seat 31. If the floor surface 30 is defined as the reference, the height Hs of the inclined section 81 decreases laterally towards the driver's seat 31.

[0118] The inclined section 81 is provided at a corner of the front end 71 and the inner side end 74 of the upper surface 52. The inclined section 81 is provided in front of the tip 73 (see Fig. 16). The inclined section 81 is part of the forward-inclined section 66 (see Fig. 16). The inclined section 81 is provided at a position that is laterally inwards from the outer side end 75 of the upper surface 52.

[0119] The inclined section 81 corresponds to an area surrounded by three sides, which define a point S1, a point S2 and a point S3 in Fig. 23 connect each other. Point S1 is located at the inner end of side 74 at a distance rearward from the front end 71. Point S2 is located at the front end 71, laterally between the inner end of side 74 and the outer end of side 75. Point S2 can be located laterally closer to the outer end of side 75 than to the inner end of side 74, at a position between the inner end of side 74 and the outer end of side 75, or closer to the inner end of side 74 than to the outer end of side 75. Point S3 is located at an intersection between the inner end of side 74 and the front end 71. The length between point S1 and point S3 is longer than the length between point S3 and point S2. The length between point S1 and point S3 can be equal to or shorter than the length between point S3 and point S2.

[0120] A width F of the inclined section 81 increases in the direction of the front end 71 of the upper surface 52 in the forward / backward direction.

[0121] If the floor surface 30 is defined as the reference, the height Hs of the inclined section 81 decreases laterally from the side where points S1 and S2 are connected, towards the driver's seat 31. If the floor surface 30 is defined as the reference, the height Hs of the inclined section 81 decreases forward from the side where points S1 and S2 are connected. If the floor surface 30 is defined as the reference, the height Hs of the inclined section 81 is highest at point S1 and lowest at point S3.

[0122] The front section 52F of the upper surface 52 also includes a horizontal section 82. The horizontal section 82 and the inclined section 81 are oriented laterally relative to each other. The horizontal section 82 is positioned opposite the driver's seat 31, with the inclined section 81 lying laterally between them. The horizontal section 82 is connected to the inclined section 81 (the side where point S1 and point S2 are connected).

[0123] In a Fig. In the cross-section of the armrest 51 shown in Figure 24, which is cut in a plane orthogonal to the forward / backward direction, the horizontal section 82 extends horizontally in the lateral direction. The horizontal section 82 is connected at one end to the inclined section 81, which extends horizontally in the lateral direction. The inclined section 81 forms an angle α with respect to the horizontal, which is the extension of the horizontal section 82. The angle α lies within a range of 0° < α < 90°. The angle α can lie within a range of 5° ≤ α ≤ 30°.

[0124] Fig. Figure 25 is a front view showing the control lever operated in a side direction and the armrest.

[0125] As in the Fig. As shown in Figures 23 to 25, the height of the inner position (41D), where floor area 30 is defined as the reference, is lower than the height of the neutral position (41A), where floor area 30 is defined as the reference. The height of the neutral position (41A), where floor area 30 is defined as the reference, is less than the height of the outer position (41E), where floor area 30 is defined as the reference.

[0126] Viewed in a forward / backward direction, one control element (a hatched area) overlaps 360 degrees. Fig. 25) of the control lever 41 with the inclined section 81 between the neutral position (41A) and the inner position (41D). The control lever 41 in the neutral position (41A) is aligned laterally with the horizontal section 82.

[0127] Viewed in the forward / reverse direction, the front end 71 of the upper surface 52 overlaps with the control lever 41, which in the outer position (41E) is located in a region where the front end 71 borders the horizontal section 82. The control lever 41, which is positioned in the neutral position (41A) and the inner position (41D), overlaps with the front end 71 in a region where the front end 71 borders the inclined section 81.

[0128] The operator holds the handle 42 in their left palm on the side opposite the driver's seat 31 and tilts the control lever 41 laterally between the neutral position (41A), the inner position (41D), and the outer position (41E). At this point, the position of the operator's wrist changes on the upper surface 52 of the armrest 51. In the driver's cab 14, the upper surface 52 of the armrest 51 has a shape that accommodates the movement of the operator's wrist when the operator moves the control lever 41 laterally, thus facilitating operation of the control lever 41.

[0129] More precisely, when the operator tilts the control lever 41 inwards in the lateral direction from the neutral position (41A) towards the inner position (41D), the operator's wrist moves inwards along the lateral direction and diagonally downwards.

[0130] In the driver's cab 14, the front section 52F of the upper surface 52 includes the inclined section 81. If the floor surface 30 is defined as the reference, the height Hs of the inclined section 81 decreases laterally towards the driver's seat 31. According to this design, the inclined section 81 has a shape that corresponds to the movement of the operator's wrist when tilting the control lever 41 inwards laterally from the neutral position (41A) towards the inner position (41D). Therefore, it is less likely that the operator's forearm, while operating the control lever 41, will interfere with the upper surface 52. The operator can thus operate the control lever 41 smoothly between the neutral position (41A) and the inner position (41D).

[0131] Viewed in the forward / backward direction, the operating part of the control lever 41 overlaps with the inclined section 81 between the neutral position (41A) and the inner position (41D). According to such a design, when tilting the control lever 41 from the neutral position (41A) towards the inner position (41D), the operator's wrist can be guided more reliably over the inclined section 81, and therefore it is less likely that the forearm of the operator, who is operating the control lever 41, will collide with the upper surface 52.

[0132] When the operator tilts the control lever 41 laterally from the neutral position (41A) towards the outer position (41E), the operator's wrist moves laterally outwards and diagonally upwards.

[0133] In the driver's cab 14, the front section 52F of the upper surface 52 also includes the horizontal section 82. The horizontal section 82 is positioned opposite the driver's seat 31, with the inclined section 81 lying laterally between it.

[0134] In such a design, if the operator's wrist is guided over the horizontal section 82 while moving laterally outwards and diagonally upwards, it is prevented from coming into conflict with the upper surface 52. The operator can thus smoothly operate the control lever 41 between the neutral position (41A) and the outer position (41E). The operator can rest their wrist on the horizontal section 82 while the control lever 41 is in the neutral position (41A) and tilt the control lever 41 between the neutral position (41A), the forward position (41B), and the rear position (41C). Operator fatigue while operating the control lever 41 can therefore be effectively reduced.

[0135] The width F of the inclined section 81 increases towards the front end 71 of the upper surface 52 in the forward / backward direction. According to this design, when the operator tilts the control lever 41 laterally between the neutral position (41A), the inner position (41D), and the outer position (41E), the magnitude of the lateral displacement of the operator's upper arm is greater on one side closer to the wrist and smaller on the other side closer to the elbow. Therefore, the width F of the inclined section 81 can correspond to the movement of the operator's upper arm. This more reliably prevents the operator's wrist from colliding with the upper surface 52.

[0136] As in the Fig. 24 and Fig.As shown in Figure 25, β represents an inclination angle of the control lever 41 between the neutral position (41A) and the inner position (41D). The angle α formed by the inclined section 81 with respect to the horizontal, which is the extension of the horizontal section 82, is equal to the angle β of the inclination of the control lever 41.

[0137] The control lever 41 (handle 42) includes a tip end 43V. The tip end 43V refers to a tip end portion of the control lever 41 (handle 42) when the control lever 41 is viewed in the forward / reverse direction. When the control lever 41 is viewed in the forward / reverse direction, the tip end 43V is an end of the control lever 41 (handle 42) that is located opposite the center of rotation G of the control lever 41. When the control lever 41 is viewed in the forward / reverse direction, the tip end 43V is located on the central axis 110.

[0138] When the control lever 41 is tilted between the neutral position (41A) and the inner position (41D), the tip end 43V of the control lever 41, when viewed in the forward / backward direction, moves as a drawing of an arc-shaped track 380. In this case, in a cross-section of the armrest 51 cut in the plane orthogonal to the forward / backward direction, the inclined section 81 can be identical in shape to the arc-shaped track 380 drawn by the tip end 43V of the control lever 41.

[0139] In such a case, the shape of the inclined section 81 can better correspond to the movement of the operator's wrist when the control lever 41 is actuated from the neutral position (41A) to the inner position (41D). This allows the operator to actuate the control lever 41 more smoothly.

[0140] The angle α formed by the inclined section 81 with respect to the horizontal, which is an extension of the horizontal section 82, may be smaller or larger than the angle β of the inclination of the control lever 41. [Summary of the design and function of the driver's cab and hydraulic excavator]

[0141] The driver's cab 14 comprises a driver's seat 31, a control lever 41 as an operating element, and an armrest 51. The driver's seat 31 is arranged on the floor surface 30. The control lever 41 is arranged to the side of the driver's seat 31. The control lever 41 is actuated at least in the direction of the driver's seat 31. The armrest 51 comprises an upper surface 52. The armrest 51 is arranged to the side of the driver's seat 31 behind the control lever 41. The front section 52F of the upper surface 52 is wider than the rear section 52R of the upper surface 52. The front section 52F of the upper surface 52 includes an inclined section 81. If the floor surface 30 is defined as the reference, the inclined section 81 decreases in height in the direction of the driver's seat 31.

[0142] According to such a design, the front section 52F of the upper surface 52 is wider than the rear section 52R of the upper surface 52. Therefore, the operator's arm, which is moved laterally inwards when the control lever 41 is actuated, can be continuously supported on the front section 52F of the upper surface 52.

[0143] By providing an inclined area 81 in the front area 52F of the upper surface 52, which corresponds to the movement of the operator's arm when the control lever 41 is actuated towards the driver's seat 31, it is less likely that the operator's arm, which is actuating the control lever 41, will come into conflict with the upper surface 52. For these reasons, the operator can operate the control lever 41 smoothly.

[0144] The front section 52F of the upper surface 52 protrudes towards the driver's seat 31 relative to the rear section 52R of the upper surface 52.

[0145] According to this design, a lightly built operator can operate the control lever 41 by placing their elbow on the front part 52F of the upper surface 52, and a taller operator can operate the control lever 41 by placing their elbow on the rear part 52R of the upper surface 52. Therefore, the operator can easily operate the control lever 41 regardless of their physique.

[0146] The control lever 41 can be pivoted from the neutral position (41A) towards the driver's seat 31, at least between the neutral position (41A) as the first position and the inner position (41D) as the second position. The height of the inner position (41D), where the floor surface 30 is defined as the reference, is lower than the height of the neutral position (41A), where the floor surface 30 is defined as the reference. Viewed in the forward / reverse direction, the operating range of the control lever 41 between the neutral position (41A) and the forward position (41D) overlaps with the inclined section 81.

[0147] According to this design, when the operator moves the control lever 41 from the neutral position (41A) to the inner position (41D), the operator's arm (wrist) moves inwards along the side and diagonally downwards. At this point, as the operator's arm (wrist) passes over the inclined section 81, it is less likely that the operator's arm will collide with the upper surface 52. The operator can thus move the control lever 41 smoothly between the neutral position (41A) and the inner position (41D).

[0148] The control lever 41 can also be tilted between the neutral position (41A) and the outer position (41E), the third position being shifted away from the driver's seat 31 from the neutral position (41A). The height of the outer position (41E), where the floor surface 30 is defined as the reference, is higher than the height of the neutral position (41A), where the floor surface 30 is defined as the reference. The front section 52F of the upper surface 52 also includes a horizontal section 82. The horizontal section 82 is positioned opposite the driver's seat 31, with the inclined section 81 lying laterally between them. The horizontal section 82 is connected to the inclined section 81.

[0149] According to this design, when the operator moves the control lever 41 from the neutral position (41A) to the outer position (41E), the operator's arm (wrist) moves laterally outwards and diagonally upwards. As the operator's arm (wrist) passes over the horizontal section 82, it is prevented from coming into conflict with the upper surface 52. The operator can thus move the control lever 41 smoothly between the neutral position (41A) and the outer position (41E).

[0150] In the cross-section of the armrest 51, which is cut in the plane orthogonally to the forward / backward direction, the inclined section 81 forms an angle α (0° < α < 90°) with respect to the horizontal, which is the extension of the horizontal section 82. The angle α is equal to the inclination angle β of the control lever 41 between the neutral position (41A) and the inner position (41D).

[0151] When the control lever 41 is actuated between the neutral position (41A) and the inner position (41D), the tip end 43V of the control lever 41 moves in the forward / backward direction as a drawing trace 380 in the arc shape. In the cross-section of the armrest 51, which is cut in the plane orthogonal to the forward / backward direction, the inclined section 81 can have an identical shape to the arc shape of the trace 380 drawn by the tip end 43V of the control lever 41.

[0152] According to this design, the shape of the inclined section 81 can better correspond to the movement of the operator's arm when the operator moves the control lever 41 from the neutral position (41A) to the inner position (41D). Furthermore, since the operator's arm moving the control lever 41 is less likely to collide with the upper surface 52, the operator can move the control lever 41 smoothly between the neutral position (41A) and the inner section (41D).

[0153] The width F of the inclined section 81 increases in the direction of the front end 71 of the upper surface 52 in the forward / backward direction.

[0154] According to this design, and when the operator moves the control lever 41 inwards in a lateral direction, the lateral deflection of the operator's arm is greater on the side closer to the wrist and smaller on the side closer to the elbow. Therefore, the width of the inclined section 81 can correspond to the movement of the operator's upper arm. Furthermore, since the operator's arm has less contact with the upper surface 52, the operator can operate the control lever 41 smoothly.

[0155] The hydraulic excavator 100 as a work vehicle comprises the driver's cab 14 and the work attachment 12. The work attachment 12 is controlled with the control lever 41.

[0156] According to such a design, the operator can smoothly operate the control lever 41 when controlling the working device 12.

[0157] The present disclosure is applied to a driver's cab of various work vehicles which have an armrest as a support for the driver's elbow, without being limited to the driver's cab of the hydraulic excavator. List of reference symbols

[0158] 11 Vehicle body; 12 Working attachment; 13 Rotating unit; 14 Operator's cab; 15 Driving mechanism; 15Cr Track; 15M Travel motor; 16 Boom; 17 Arm; 18 Bucket; 19 Engine hood; 20A, 20B Boom cylinder; 21 Arm cylinder; 22 Bucket cylinder; 23 Boom bolt; 24 Arm bolt; 25 Bucket bolt; 26 Rotating center; 30 Floor surface; 31 Operator's seat; 32 Seat back; 33 Seat cushion; 35 Headrest; 36 Suspension mechanism; 37, 37L, 37R Console; 41, 41L, 41R Control lever; 42 Handle; 43V, 43W Tip end; 44W Root; 51, 51L, 51R Armrest; 52 Upper surface; 52F front section; 52R rear section; 53 armrest support; 55 inner surface; 59 outer surface; 61 front surface; 62 rear surface; 63f, 63i, 63j, 63r chamfered surface; 66 forward-sloping section; 67 backward-sloping section; 71 front end; 72 rear end; 73 tip; 74 inner side end; 75 outer side end; 81 inclined section; 82 horizontal section; 100 hydraulic excavator; 101 centerline; 110 center axis;120, 380 Lane; 130 Virtual Straight; 210, 220, 230 Operator; 215, 225, 235, 250, 255, 260 Position; 310A, 310B, 310C Line; 360 Hatched Area;

Claims

[1] Driver's cab (14), comprising: a driver's seat (31) provided on a floor surface (30); a control element (41) which is provided to the side of the driver's seat (31), wherein the control element (41) is actuated at least in the direction of the driver's seat (31); and an armrest (51) with an upper surface (52), wherein the armrest (51) is provided to the side of the driver's seat (31) behind the control unit (41), wherein a front section (52F) of the upper surface (52) is wider than a rear section (52R) of the upper surface (52), the front section (52F) of the upper surface (52) has an inclined section (81), and defined with the floor surface (30) as a reference, the inclined section (81) decreases in height towards the driver's seat (31), characterized by , that the upper surface (52) of the armrest (51) comprises a forward-leaning section (66) and a backward-leaning section (67), wherein the forward-leaning section (66) extends a predetermined length (L1) from a front end (71) of the upper surface (52) to the rear, and the backward-leaning section (67) extends a predetermined length (L2) from a rear end (72) of the upper surface (52) to the front, and the length (L1) of the forward-leaning section (66) in a forward / backward direction is greater than the length (L2) of the backward-leaning section (67) in the forward / backward direction. [2] Driver's cabin (14) according to claim 1, wherein the front section (52F) of the upper surface (52) projects towards the driver's seat (31) relative to the rear section (52R) of the upper surface (52). [3] Driver's cab (14) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the control element is a control lever (41) which can be tilted at least between a first position (41A) and a second position (41D) shifted from the first position (41A) towards the driver's seat (31), a height of the second position (41D), where the floor area (30) is defined as the reference, is lower than a height of the first position (41A), where the floor area (30) is defined as the reference, and When viewed in the forward / reverse direction, the actuation range of the control lever (41) between the first position (41A) and the second position (41D) overlaps with the inclined section (81). [4] Driver's cab (14) according to claim 3, wherein the control lever (41) is furthermore tiltable between the first position (41A) and a third position (41E) which is shifted in a direction away from the driver's seat (31) from the first position (41A), a height of the third position (41E), where the floor area (30) is defined as the reference, is higher than the height of the first position (41A), where the floor area (30) is defined as the reference, and the front section (52F) of the upper surface (52) further comprises a horizontal section (82) which is provided opposite the driver's seat (31), wherein the inclined section (81) lies between the horizontal section (82) and the driver's seat (31) in a lateral direction and is connected to the inclined section (81). [5] Driver's cab (14) according to claim 4, wherein in a cross-section of the armrest (51) which is cut in a plane orthogonal to the forward / backward direction, the inclined section (81) forms an angle α of 0° < α < 90° with respect to a horizontal which is the extension of the horizontal section (82), and the angle α is equal to an inclination angle β of the control lever (41) between the first position (41A) and the second position (41D). [6] Driver's cab (14) according to claim 3, wherein While the control lever (41) is actuated between the first position (41A) and the second position (41D), a tip end (43V) of the control lever (41) moves when viewed in the forward / backward direction in such a way that it traces an arc-shaped path (380), and in a cross-section of the armrest (51) which is cut in a plane orthogonal to the forward / backward direction, the inclined section (81) is identical in shape to the arc-shaped track (380). [7] Driver's cab (14) according to claim 1, wherein the inclined section (81) has a width (F) which increases in the direction of the front end (71) of the upper surface (52) in the forward / reverse direction. [8] Work vehicle (100), comprising: the driver's cab (14) according to claim 1; and a working device (12) which is controlled using the control unit (41).

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