Path generation method, path generation system, and path generation program

Abstract

To provide a path generation method, a path generation system, and an automatic traveling program that can improve the workability of generating a target path for automatically traveling a working vehicle in a field.SOLUTION: A setting processing unit 713 determines one path generation mode out of a plurality of path generation modes for generating a target path R on the basis of a reference point set at a predetermined position in a field F. A generation processing unit 714 generates the target path R by using the determined path generation mode.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5B

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a route generation method, a route generation system, and a route generation program for generating a target route for automatically driving a work vehicle in a field. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, there is known a technique for generating a target route for automatically driving a work vehicle in a field. For example, a technique is known in which a first position (reference start point) and a second position (reference end point) in a field are acquired, a line segment connecting the reference start point and the reference end point is registered as a reference line, a straight route (target route) parallel to the reference line is set, and the work vehicle is automatically driven along the straight route (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2021-166528 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, with conventional technology, an operator must manually drive the work vehicle to obtain the reference start point and reference end point. For example, the operator moves the work vehicle to a desired position and registers the reference start point, and then manually drives the work vehicle again to register the reference end point at the desired position. As such, with conventional technology, the task of generating a target route is cumbersome.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a route generation method, a route generation system, and an automatic driving program that can improve the workability of generating a target route for automatically driving a work vehicle in a field. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The route generation method of the present invention is a route generation method for generating a target route for automatically driving a work vehicle in a field, which route generation method performs the following steps: accepting an operation to select one of a plurality of route generation modes that generate the target route based on a reference point set at a predetermined position within the field, at an operation unit provided on the work vehicle or an operation device; and generating the target route using the selected route generation mode.

[0007] The route generation system according to the present invention includes a reception processing unit and a generation processing unit. The reception processing unit receives, via an operation unit provided on the work vehicle or an operation device, an operation to select one of a plurality of route generation modes that generate the target route based on a reference point set at a predetermined position within the field. The generation processing unit generates the target route using the selected route generation mode.

[0008] The route generation program of the present invention is a route generation program that generates a target route for automatically driving a work vehicle in a field, and causes one or more processors to execute the following steps: accepting an operation at an operation unit provided on the work vehicle or an operation device to select one of a plurality of route generation modes that generate the target route based on a reference point set at a predetermined position within the field, and generating the target route using the selected route generation mode. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a route generation method, a route generation system, and an automatic driving program that can improve the workability of generating a target route for automatically driving a work vehicle in a field. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a work vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is an external view showing an example of a work vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is an external view showing an example of an operating device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a target route for a work vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5A] FIG. 5A is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen displayed on the operating device according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5B] FIG. 5B is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen displayed on the operation device according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5C] FIG. 5C is a diagram showing an example of a work screen displayed on the operating device according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5D] FIG. 5D is a diagram showing an example of a work screen displayed on the operating device according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6A] FIG. 6A is a diagram for explaining a route generation method in the first route generation mode according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6B] FIG. 6B is a diagram for explaining a route generation method in the first route generation mode according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6C] FIG. 6C is a diagram for explaining a route generation method in the first route generation mode according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen displayed on the operation device according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8A] FIG. 8A is a diagram for explaining a route generation method in the second route generation mode according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8B] FIG. 8B is a diagram for explaining a route generation method in the second route generation mode according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9A] FIG. 9A is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen displayed on the operating device according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9B] FIG. 9B is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen displayed on the operation device according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9C] FIG. 9C is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen displayed on the operation device according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10A] FIG. 10A is a diagram for explaining a route generation method in the third route generation mode according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10B] FIG. 10B is a diagram for explaining a route generation method in the third route generation mode according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11A] FIG. 11A is a diagram showing an example of a work screen displayed on the operating device according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11B] FIG. 11B is a diagram showing an example of a work screen displayed on the operating device according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12A] FIG. 12A is a diagram showing an example of a work screen displayed on the operating device according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12B] FIG. 12B is a diagram showing an example of a work screen displayed on the operating device according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13A] FIG. 13A is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen displayed on the operating device according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13B] FIG. 13B is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen displayed on the operating device according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of a path generation process executed by the operation device according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of a path generation process executed by the operation device according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen displayed on the operation device according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen displayed on the operation device according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen displayed on the operation device according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen displayed on the operation device according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a diagram showing an example of set azimuth angle information stored in the work vehicle according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 21A] FIG. 21A is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen displayed on the operating device according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 21B] FIG. 21B is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen displayed on the operating device according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 21C] FIG. 21C is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen displayed on the operating device according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 21D] FIG. 21D is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen displayed on the operating device according to the embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] The following embodiment is an example of the present invention and does not limit the technical scope of the present invention.

[0012] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, an automated driving system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a work vehicle 10, a satellite 20, and a base station (not shown). In this embodiment, an example will be described in which the work vehicle 10 is a tractor. In other embodiments, the work vehicle 10 may be a rice transplanter, a combine harvester, construction machinery, a snowplow, or the like. The work vehicle 10 performs a predetermined task (e.g., plowing) while traveling along a target route R in a field F (see FIG. 4) in response to an operator's operation. Specifically, the work vehicle 10 travels straight along the target route R in response to automatic steering, and turns in response to manual steering (driving operation) by the operator. The work vehicle 10 travels through the field F and performs work by switching between automatic traveling along a straight route and manual traveling along a turning route. The target route R may be generated in advance based on an operator's operation and stored as route data. The work vehicle 10 may also be equipped with a function for automatically increasing or decreasing vehicle speed (vehicle speed control function). For example, the work vehicle 10 may automatically change its speed depending on the travel route.

[0013] The work vehicle 10 travels, for example, in a field F shown in Fig. 4, alternating between straight travel and turning travel until work is completed. The multiple straight routes are substantially parallel to each other. The target route R shown in Fig. 4 is an example, and the target route R is determined appropriately depending on the size of the work vehicle 10, the size of the work implement 14, the work content, the shape of the field F, etc.

[0014] The automated driving system 1 may also include an operation terminal (tablet terminal, smartphone, etc.) operated by an operator. The operation terminal is capable of communicating with the work vehicle 10 via a communication network such as a mobile phone network, a packet network, or a wireless LAN. For example, the operator operates the operation terminal to register various information (work vehicle information, field information, work information, etc.). Furthermore, the operator can grasp the driving status and work status of the work vehicle 10 from the driving trajectory displayed on the operation terminal while in a location away from the work vehicle 10.

[0015] [Work vehicle 10] 1 and 2, the work vehicle 10 includes a vehicle control device 11, a memory unit 12, a traveling device 13, a work implement 14, a communication unit 15, a positioning device 16, an operation device 17, etc. The vehicle control device 11 is electrically connected to the memory unit 12, the traveling device 13, the work implement 14, the positioning device 16, the operation device 17, etc. The vehicle control device 11 and the positioning device 16 may be capable of wireless communication. The vehicle control device 11 and the operation device 17 may also be capable of wireless communication.

[0016] The communication unit 15 is a communication interface that connects the work vehicle 10 to a communication network by wire or wirelessly, and executes data communication with an external device (such as an operation terminal) via the communication network in accordance with a predetermined communication protocol.

[0017] The storage unit 12 is a non-volatile storage unit such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or SSD (Solid State Drive) that stores various types of information. The storage unit 12 stores control programs such as an automatic driving program for causing the vehicle control device 11 to execute automatic driving processing. For example, the automatic driving program is non-temporarily recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as a CD or DVD, and is read by a predetermined reading device (not shown) and stored in the storage unit 12. The automatic driving program may be downloaded to the work vehicle 10 from a server (not shown) via a communication network and stored in the storage unit 12. The storage unit 12 may also store data for a target route R generated by the operation device 17.

[0018] The traveling device 13 is a drive unit that causes the work vehicle 10 to travel. As shown in Fig. 2, the traveling device 13 is equipped with an engine 131, front wheels 132, rear wheels 133, a transmission 134, a front axle 135, a rear axle 136, a handlebar 137, etc. The front wheels 132 and rear wheels 133 are provided on the left and right sides of the work vehicle 10, respectively. The traveling device 13 is not limited to a wheel type equipped with front wheels 132 and rear wheels 133, but may also be a crawler type equipped with crawlers provided on the left and right sides of the work vehicle 10.

[0019] The engine 131 is a drive source such as a diesel engine or a gasoline engine that is driven by fuel supplied to a fuel tank (not shown). The traveling device 13 may be equipped with an electric motor as a drive source in addition to or instead of the engine 131. A generator (not shown) is connected to the engine 131, and power is supplied from the generator to electrical components such as the vehicle control device 11 and the battery provided on the work vehicle 10. The battery is charged with power supplied from the generator. Electrical components such as the vehicle control device 11, positioning device 16, and operating device 17 provided on the work vehicle 10 can be driven by power supplied from the battery even after the engine 131 is stopped.

[0020] The driving force of the engine 131 is transmitted to front wheels 132 via a transmission 134 and a front axle 135, and to rear wheels 133 via the transmission 134 and a rear axle 136. The driving force of the engine 131 is also transmitted to the work implement 14 via a PTO shaft (not shown). The traveling device 13 performs traveling operations in accordance with commands from the vehicle control device 11.

[0021] The work implement 14 is, for example, a tiller, a seed sower, a brush cutter, a plow, or a fertilizer applicator, and is detachable from the work vehicle 10. This allows the work vehicle 10 to perform various tasks using each of the work implements 14. FIG. 2 shows a case where the work implement 14 is a tiller. The work implement 14 may be supported in the work vehicle 10 by a lifting mechanism (not shown) so that it can be raised and lowered. The vehicle control device 11 is able to raise and lower the work implement 14 by controlling the lifting mechanism.

[0022] The handle 137 is an operating unit that is operated by an operator or the vehicle control device 11. For example, the traveling device 13 changes the angle of the front wheels 132 by a hydraulic power steering mechanism (not shown) or the like in response to operation of the handle 137 by the operator or the vehicle control device 11, thereby changing the traveling direction of the work vehicle 10.

[0023] In addition to the handlebars 137, the traveling device 13 is also equipped with a shift lever, accelerator, brake, etc. (not shown) that are operated by the vehicle control device 11. In the traveling device 13, the gear of the transmission 134 is switched to a forward gear, a reverse gear, etc. in response to operation of the shift lever by the vehicle control device 11, and the traveling mode of the work vehicle 10 is switched to forward, reverse, etc. The vehicle control device 11 also operates the accelerator to control the rotation speed of the engine 131. The vehicle control device 11 also operates the brake to brake the rotation of the front wheels 132 and rear wheels 133 using an electromagnetic brake.

[0024] The positioning device 16 is a communication device including a positioning control unit 161, a memory unit 162, a communication unit 163, a positioning antenna 164, and the like. For example, as shown in FIG. 2 , the positioning device 16 is provided above the cabin 18 in which the operator sits. The installation location of the positioning device 16 is not limited to the cabin 18. The positioning control unit 161, the memory unit 162, the communication unit 163, and the positioning antenna 164 of the positioning device 16 may be disposed in different locations in the work vehicle 10. As described above, the battery is connected to the positioning device 16, and the positioning device 16 can operate even when the engine 131 is stopped. The positioning device 16 may be substituted with, for example, a mobile phone terminal, a smartphone, or a tablet terminal.

[0025] The positioning control unit 161 is a computer system including one or more processors and storage memories such as nonvolatile memory and RAM. The storage unit 162 is a nonvolatile memory that stores a positioning control program for causing the positioning control unit 161 to execute the positioning process, and data such as positioning information and movement information. For example, the positioning control program is non-temporarily recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as a CD or DVD, and is read by a predetermined reading device (not shown) and stored in the storage unit 162. Note that the positioning control program may be downloaded to the positioning device 16 from a server (not shown) via a communication network and stored in the storage unit 162.

[0026] The communication unit 163 is a communication interface for connecting the positioning device 16 to a communication network by wire or wirelessly, and for executing data communication with an external device such as a base station server via the communication network in accordance with a predetermined communication protocol.

[0027] The positioning antenna 164 is an antenna that receives radio waves (GNSS signals) transmitted from the satellites 20.

[0028] The positioning control unit 161 calculates the current position of the work vehicle 10 based on the GNSS signals received by the positioning antenna 164 from the satellites 20. For example, when the work vehicle 10 is autonomously traveling in a field F, the positioning antenna 164 receives radio waves (such as transmission time and orbit information) transmitted from each of the multiple satellites 20, and the positioning control unit 161 calculates the distance between the positioning antenna 164 and each satellite 20, and calculates the current position (latitude and longitude) of the work vehicle 10 based on the calculated distance. The positioning control unit 161 may also perform positioning using a real-time kinematic method (RTK-GPS positioning method (RTK method)), which calculates the current position of the work vehicle 10 using correction information corresponding to a base station (reference station) close to the work vehicle 10. In this way, the work vehicle 10 performs autonomous traveling using positioning information obtained by the RTK method. The current position of the work vehicle 10 may be the same as the positioning position (for example, the position of the positioning antenna 164), or may be a position displaced from the positioning position.

[0029] The operation device 17 is a device operated by an operator on board the work vehicle 10, and displays various information and accepts operations from the operator. Specifically, the operation device 17 displays various setting screens to accept various setting operations from the operator, and displays information related to the work vehicle 10 while it is traveling. The specific configuration of the operation device 17 will be described later.

[0030] The vehicle control device 11 has control devices such as a CPU, a ROM, and a RAM. The CPU is a processor that executes various types of arithmetic processing. The ROM is a non-volatile storage unit that pre-stores control programs such as a BIOS and an OS that cause the CPU to execute various types of arithmetic processing. The RAM is a volatile or non-volatile storage unit that stores various types of information and is used as a temporary storage memory (work area) for the various types of processing executed by the CPU. The vehicle control device 11 controls the work vehicle 10 by having the CPU execute various control programs pre-stored in the ROM or the storage unit 12. The vehicle control device 11 also executes various types of processing in accordance with the automatic driving program using the CPU.

[0031] Specifically, the vehicle control device 11 controls the traveling of the work vehicle 10. For example, when the traveling mode of the work vehicle 10 is manual traveling (manual traveling mode), the vehicle control device 11 manually travels the work vehicle 10 based on the operation (manual steering) of the operator. For example, the vehicle control device 11 acquires operation information corresponding to driving operations such as steering operation, gear change operation, shift operation, accelerator operation, and brake operation by the operator, and causes the traveling device 13 to perform traveling operations based on the operation information.

[0032] Furthermore, when the driving mode of the work vehicle 10 is automatic driving (automatic driving mode), the vehicle control device 11 causes the work vehicle 10 to automatically drive based on position information (positioning information) indicating the current position of the work vehicle 10 measured by the positioning control unit 161. For example, when the work vehicle 10 satisfies the automatic driving start conditions and receives a driving start command from the operator, the vehicle control device 11 causes the work vehicle 10 to start automatic driving based on the positioning information. Furthermore, the vehicle control device 11 causes the work vehicle 10 to automatically drive according to a target route R (straight route) generated in advance.

[0033] The vehicle control device 11 is also capable of automatically driving the work vehicle 10 according to a target route R (straight route) generated in accordance with a route generation mode set to one of a plurality of route generation modes (details will be described later). For example, when the operator selects the first route generation mode, the vehicle control device 11 automatically drives the work vehicle 10 according to the target route R generated in the first route generation mode. For example, when the operator selects the second route generation mode, the vehicle control device 11 automatically drives the work vehicle 10 according to the target route R generated in the second route generation mode. For example, when the operator selects the third route generation mode, the vehicle control device 11 automatically drives the work vehicle 10 according to the target route R generated in the third route generation mode. The process of setting the route generation mode is executed by the operation device 17.

[0034] The automated driving system 1 according to this embodiment has three route generation modes (first route generation mode, second route generation mode, and third route generation mode), but the present invention is not limited to these. The route generation modes will be described in detail later.

[0035] Furthermore, the vehicle control device 11 switches the driving mode to manual driving when the work vehicle 10 reaches the end of the straight route. The vehicle control device 11 may switch the driving mode to manual driving when it determines that the work vehicle 10 has reached the end, or may switch the driving mode to manual driving in response to an operation by the operator. When the driving mode is switched to manual driving, for example, the operator manually steers the work vehicle 10 to make a turn (manual driving).

[0036] In this way, the vehicle control device 11 switches the driving mode in response to the operator's operation of the operating device 17, and causes the work vehicle 10 to automatically drive along a straight path (target path R) using automatic steering, and manually drive along a turning path using manual steering.

[0037] Here, the target route R (straight route) along which the work vehicle 10 will automatically travel is generated based on work by an operator (route generation work). In the route generation work, with conventional technology, the operator must manually drive the work vehicle 10 to obtain a reference start point (point A) and a reference end point (point B). For example, the operator moves the work vehicle 10 to a desired position and registers point A, and then manually drives the work vehicle 10 to register point B at another desired position. This creates a problem in that the route generation work is time-consuming. In contrast, with the configuration of this embodiment, it is possible to improve the operability of the route generation work, as will be described below. The specific configuration of the operation device 17 will be described below.

[0038] [Operation device 17] 1, the operation device 17 includes an operation control unit 71, a storage unit 72, an operation display unit 73, etc. The operation device 17 may be a device that can be attached to and detached from the work vehicle 10. The operation device 17 may also be a mobile terminal (tablet terminal, smartphone, etc.) that can be carried by the operator. The operation device 17 is also connected to the vehicle control device 11 via wire or wirelessly so as to be able to communicate with it.

[0039] The operation display unit 73 is a user interface that includes a display unit such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display that displays various information, and an operation unit such as operation buttons or a touch panel that accepts operations. The operation display unit 73 displays various setting screens, work screens, etc. in accordance with instructions from the operation control unit 71. The operation display unit 73 also accepts operations from the operator on the setting screens and work screens.

[0040] The operation unit also includes an automatic driving button that the operator uses to instruct the work vehicle 10 to start driving automatically, an offset button that performs an offset operation (correction operation) to correct the position deviation between the work vehicle 10 and the target route R, and a plurality of selection buttons that perform selection operations on the setting screen and the work screen (all not shown).

[0041] The operating device 17 is installed near a handle 137 inside the cabin 18, as shown in, for example, FIGS.

[0042] The storage unit 72 is a non-volatile storage unit such as an HDD or SSD that stores various types of information. The storage unit 72 stores control programs such as a route generation program for causing the operation device 17 to execute the route generation process (see FIGS. 14 and 15) described below. For example, the route generation program is non-temporarily recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as a CD or DVD, and is read by a predetermined reading device (not shown) and stored in the storage unit 72. The route generation program may be downloaded to the operation device 17 from a server (not shown) via a communication network and stored in the storage unit 72. The route generation program may also be stored in the storage unit 12 of the work vehicle 10. The storage unit 72 may also store data for the target route R generated by the operation device 17.

[0043] The operation control unit 71 has control devices such as a CPU, a ROM, and a RAM. The CPU is a processor that executes various types of arithmetic processing. The ROM is a non-volatile storage unit in which control programs such as a BIOS and an OS that cause the CPU to execute various types of arithmetic processing are stored in advance. The RAM is a volatile or non-volatile storage unit that stores various types of information and is used as a temporary storage memory (work area) for the various types of processing executed by the CPU. The operation control unit 71 controls the operation device 17 by having the CPU execute various control programs that are stored in advance in the ROM or the storage unit 72.

[0044] Specifically, as shown in Fig. 1, the operation control unit 71 includes various processing units such as a display processing unit 711, a reception processing unit 712, a setting processing unit 713, and a generation processing unit 714. The operation device 17 functions as the various processing units by executing various processes in accordance with the route generation program using the CPU. Some or all of the processing units may be configured with electronic circuits. The route generation program may be a program for causing multiple processors to function as the processing units.

[0045] The display processing unit 711 displays various types of information on the operation display unit 73. For example, the display processing unit 711 displays on the operation display unit 73 setting screens (FIGS. 5, 7, 9, 13, etc.) for performing various settings, a work screen D1 (FIGS. 11, 12, etc.) including travel information such as the travel status and work status of the work vehicle 10, and the like.

[0046] The reception processing unit 712 receives various operations from the operator. For example, the reception processing unit 712 receives from the operator, on the setting screen, operations for generating the target route R, that is, various operations related to the route generation work.

[0047] The setting processing unit 713 identifies one of a plurality of route generation modes. The plurality of route generation modes are route generation modes that generate a target route R based on a reference point (e.g., point A) that is set at a predetermined position in the field F. The setting processing unit 713 is an example of the setting processing unit of the present invention.

[0048] The multiple route generation modes in this embodiment include a first route generation mode in which a target route R is generated based on a reference line L1 that passes through two reference points (point A and point B) that are set at each of two positions within the field F in accordance with the operator's setting operation; a second route generation mode in which a target route R is generated based on a reference line L1 that passes through a reference point (point A) that is set at the position (e.g., the current position) of the work vehicle 10 within the field F and extends in the direction of the orientation (vehicle orientation) of the work vehicle 10; and a third route generation mode in which a target route R is generated based on a reference line L1 that passes through a reference point (point A) that is set at the position (e.g., the current position) of the work vehicle 10 within the field F and extends in the direction of a set orientation angle d1 (set angle) that is set in accordance with the operator's setting operation.

[0049] The operator can select one of the multiple route generation modes. Fig. 5A shows an example of a setting screen P1. For example, when the operator selects "Work Setting" (not shown) on the menu screen to perform a route generation task, the display processing unit 711 displays the setting screen P1 on the operation display unit 73.

[0050] The setting screen P1 includes a setting item K11 ("Create reference line") for setting the route generation mode, a setting item K12 ("Set azimuth") for setting the set azimuth, and the like. The operator can move the selection position of a setting item and the displayed page by pressing the operation button K1, can select a setting item by pressing the decision button K2, and can move the displayed page to the previous page by pressing the back button K3. Each of the buttons K1 to K3 is an example of the operation unit in the operation display unit 73.

[0051] When the operator selects the setting item K11, the display processing unit 711 displays a setting screen P11 shown in FIG. 5B. The display processing unit 711 displays, on the setting screen P11, selection fields for a plurality of route generation modes and explanatory information corresponding to each selection field. That is, the display processing unit 711 displays a setting screen P11 (an example of a first screen of the present invention) that accepts the operator's selection operation of a route generation mode. The plurality of route generation modes include "Point A + Point B" (setting item K13) corresponding to the first route generation mode, "Point A + vehicle azimuth" (setting item K14) corresponding to the second route generation mode, and "Point A + set azimuth" (setting item K15) corresponding to the third route generation mode. The operator can select any one of the first, second, and third route generation modes on the setting screen P11 shown in FIG. 5B.

[0052] The setting processing unit 713 identifies a route generation mode selected by the operator from the plurality of route generation modes. Furthermore, when the route generation mode is identified, the display processing unit 711 displays a work screen D1 (an example of a second screen of the present invention) that accepts a setting operation from the operator to set a reference line L1 that passes through a reference point (point A). Then, the generation processing unit 714 generates a target route R in the route generation mode identified by the setting processing unit 713. Specifically, the generation processing unit 714 generates a target route R that includes a reference line L1 that is set in accordance with the setting operation of the operator. The generation processing unit 714 is an example of a generation processing unit of the present invention.

[0053] The operation control unit 71 may output the explanatory information corresponding to the setting item where the cursor, mouse, or other pointer is located as audio (audio guidance) on each setting screen. For example, when the cursor is placed over the setting item K11 for "baseline creation" on the setting screen P1 (see FIG. 5A), the operation control unit 71 outputs an audio message such as "Baseline creation is set to point A + point B." Also, when the cursor is placed over the setting item K15 for "point A + set azimuth" on the setting screen P11 (see FIG. 9A), the operation control unit 71 outputs an audio message such as "This is a method for creating a base line from the settings of point A and the set azimuth." The operation control unit 71 may be capable of switching the audio output function ON / OFF.

[0054] [Example of route generation method] Next, specific examples of methods for generating the target route R in each of the first route generation mode, the second route generation mode, and the third route generation mode will be described.

[0055] [First route generation mode] When the operator selects "Point A + Point B" (setting item K13) on the setting screen P11 and presses the OK button K2, the reception processing unit 712 receives the operator's selection operation, and the setting processing unit 713 specifies the first path generation mode. When the setting processing unit 713 specifies the first path generation mode, the display processing unit 711 displays, on the operation display unit 73, a work screen D1 (see FIG. 5C) that receives a setting operation from the operator to set the reference line L1. The operator moves the work vehicle 10 to an arbitrary position within the field F and presses the point A registration button Ka. For example, the operator moves the work vehicle 10 to the outer periphery of the field F and presses the point A registration button Ka. When the operator presses the point A registration button Ka, the setting processing unit 713 registers the current position of the work vehicle 10 as the first reference point (point A). When the setting processing unit 713 registers point A, the display processing unit 711 displays a work screen D1 (see FIG. 5D) on the operation display unit 73, which accepts an operation to register a second reference point (point B). The operator manually drives the work vehicle 10 in the direction (target direction) in which the operator wants the work vehicle 10 to travel and work (see FIG. 6A). Specifically, the operator drives the work vehicle 10 straight in a direction parallel to the work direction (e.g., the plowing direction) in which the work vehicle 10 will work in the work area. The operator then presses the point B registration button Kb (see FIG. 5D) at any position (e.g., the outer periphery of field F). When the operator presses the point B registration button Kb, the setting processing unit 713 registers the current position of the work vehicle 10 as the second reference point (point B).

[0056] When the setting processing unit 713 acquires the position information of points A and B, it sets a straight line passing through points A and B as a reference line L1 (see FIG. 6A). The setting processing unit 713 may be able to adjust the orientation of the created reference line L1. For example, the setting processing unit 713 displays the created reference line L1 on the work screen D1, and sets (registers) the reference line L1 when a registration operation is received from the operator. On the other hand, when the setting processing unit 713 receives an operation from the operator to change the orientation of the reference line L1 (for example, a touch operation on the screen), it adjusts the orientation of the reference line L1 in accordance with the operation. When the setting processing unit 713 receives an operation to register point B, it may display a selection screen for whether to register or adjust the reference line L1. The generation processing unit 714 generates a travel route (target route R) including the reference line L1 and multiple straight lines parallel to the reference line L1. For example, the generation processing unit 714 generates multiple parallel straight lines at equal intervals on the left and right of the reference line L1 based on a preset working width (the horizontal width of the work implement 14) and lap width (the width that overlaps with adjacent worked areas) (see FIG. 6B). The generation processing unit 714 registers the generated target route R in the memory unit 72 and displays it on the operation display unit 73.

[0057] According to the first route generation mode, the target route R can be generated using a reference line L1 that passes through two points (points A and B) at both ends of the field F, thereby improving the accuracy of work performed by the work vehicle 10. Note that the setting processing unit 713 may also be configured to be able to register point B when the work vehicle 10 has traveled a predetermined distance (for example, 5 m) since registering point A. This allows a more accurate reference line L1 to be set.

[0058] [Second route generation mode] When the operator selects "Point A + vehicle azimuth angle" (setting item K14) on the setting screen P11 (see FIG. 7) and presses the OK button K2, the reception processing unit 712 receives the operator's selection operation, and the setting processing unit 713 specifies the second route generation mode. When the setting processing unit 713 specifies the second route generation mode, the display processing unit 711 displays, on the operation display unit 73, a work screen D1 (see FIG. 5C) that receives a setting operation from the operator to set the reference line L1. The operator moves the work vehicle 10 to an arbitrary position within the field F and presses the point A registration button Ka (see FIG. 5C). For example, the operator moves the work vehicle 10 to a work start position in the field F and presses the point A registration button Ka. When the operator presses the point A registration button Ka, the setting processing unit 713 registers the position (current position) of the work vehicle 10 as a reference point (point A) (see FIG. 8A). When point A is registered, the setting processing unit 713 sets a straight line that passes through point A and extends in the direction of the current heading (vehicle heading) of the work vehicle 10 as the reference line L1 (see FIG. 8A). The setting processing unit 713 also sets a vehicle heading angle (the setting angle of the present invention), which is an angle with respect to a reference heading (e.g., north). The setting processing unit 713 may be able to adjust the heading of the created reference line L1. For example, the setting processing unit 713 displays the created reference line L1 on the work screen D1, and sets (registers) the reference line L1 when a registration operation is received from the operator. On the other hand, when the setting processing unit 713 receives an operation from the operator to change the heading of the reference line L1 (e.g., a touch operation on the screen), the setting processing unit 713 adjusts the heading of the reference line L1 in accordance with the operation. When an operation to register point A is received, the setting processing unit 713 may display a selection screen for whether to register or adjust the reference line L1.

[0059] The generation processing unit 714 generates a travel route (target route R) including a reference line L1 and a plurality of straight lines parallel to the reference line L1 (see FIG. 8B). The generation processing unit 714 registers the generated target route R in the storage unit 72 and displays it on the operation display unit 73.

[0060] Thus, in the second route generation mode, the operation control unit 71 sets a vehicle azimuth angle, which is the orientation of the vehicle relative to the reference orientation (north), sets a reference point (point A) at a predetermined position within the field F, and generates a target route R (straight route) based on the vehicle azimuth angle and a reference line L1 that passes through point A. The operation control unit 71 also generates a target route R that includes a reference line L1 that passes through point A and extends at the vehicle azimuth angle relative to the reference orientation. According to the second route generation mode, the operator can generate a target route R that corresponds to the orientation of the work vehicle 10 by registering point A, thereby improving the workability of the route generation work.

[0061] [Third Route Generation Mode] When the operator selects "Point A + Set Azimuth" (setting item K15) on the setting screen P11 (see FIG. 9A) and presses the OK button K2, the reception processing unit 712 accepts the operator's selection, and the setting processing unit 713 specifies the third route generation mode. Furthermore, the display processing unit 711 displays the setting item K12 ("Set Azimuth") selectably on the setting screen P1 (see FIG. 9B). Note that, when the operator selects "Point A + Point B" (setting item K13) or "Point A + Vehicle Azimuth" (setting item K14), the display processing unit 711 may display the setting item K12 as unselectable (for example, grayed out) or may hide it. When the operator selects "Set Azimuth" (setting item K12) on the setting screen P1 (see FIG. 9B) and presses the OK button K2, the reception processing unit 712 accepts the operator's selection, and the display processing unit 711 displays the setting screen P12 (see FIG. 9C).

[0062] The setting processing unit 713 sets a set azimuth angle d1 (the set angle of the present invention), which is an angle relative to a reference azimuth (for example, north). For example, the display processing unit 711 displays an input field K16 for inputting an angle on the setting screen P12, and the reception processing unit 712 receives an input operation of the angle from the operator. The operator inputs a desired angle by operating, for example, the operation button K1. The setting processing unit 713 sets the angle input by the operator to the set azimuth angle d1.

[0063] Here, if a previously set azimuth angle d0 (registered set azimuth angle) (an example of a registered set angle of the present invention) is pre-stored in the storage unit 72, the setting processing unit 713 may set the set azimuth angle d0 to the set azimuth angle d1. The display processing unit 711 may display the set azimuth angle d0 as an initial angle in the input field K16, and the reception processing unit 712 may accept an operation to change the initial angle from the operator. When the reception processing unit 712 accepts the change operation, the setting processing unit 713 sets the changed angle as the set azimuth angle d1. When the setting processing unit 713 sets the set azimuth angle d1, the display processing unit 711 displays the set azimuth angle d1 (here, "72.0093 degrees") in the explanation field for the setting item K12 on the setting screen P1 (see FIG. 9B). A configuration in which the set azimuth angle d0 (registered set azimuth angle) is displayed as the initial angle allows the operator to use it as a guide when setting the set azimuth angle d1.

[0064] Furthermore, once the setting processing unit 713 has set the set azimuth angle d1, the display processing unit 711 causes the operation display unit 73 to display a work screen D1 (see FIG. 5C) that accepts a setting operation from the operator to set the reference line L1. The operator moves the work vehicle 10 to an arbitrary position within the field F and presses the point A registration button Ka. For example, the operator moves the work vehicle 10 to a work start position in the field F and presses the point A registration button Ka (see FIG. 5C). When the operator presses the point A registration button Ka, the setting processing unit 713 registers the current position of the work vehicle 10 as a reference point (point A). When point A is registered, the setting processing unit 713 sets a straight line that passes through point A and extends in the direction of the set azimuth angle d1 as the reference line L1 (see FIG. 10A). Note that the setting processing unit 713 may be able to adjust the orientation of the created reference line L1. For example, the setting processing unit 713 displays the created reference line L1 on the work screen D1, and sets (registers) the reference line L1 when a registration operation is received from the operator. On the other hand, when the setting processing unit 713 receives an operation from the operator to change the orientation of the reference line L1 (for example, a touch operation on the screen), the setting processing unit 713 adjusts the orientation of the reference line L1 in accordance with the operation. When the setting processing unit 713 receives an operation to register point A, the setting processing unit 713 may display a selection screen for whether to register or adjust the reference line L1. The generation processing unit 714 generates a travel route (target route R) including the reference line L1 and multiple straight lines parallel to the reference line L1 (see FIG. 10B). The generation processing unit 714 registers the generated target route R in the storage unit 72 and displays it on the operation display unit 73.

[0065] Thus, in the third route generation mode, the operation control unit 71 sets a set azimuth angle d1, which is an angle with respect to the reference direction (north), sets a reference point (point A) at a predetermined position within the field F, and generates a target route R (straight route) based on the set azimuth angle d1 and a reference line L1 that passes through point A. The operation control unit 71 also generates a target route R that includes a reference line L1 that passes through point A and extends at the set azimuth angle d1 with respect to the reference direction.

[0066] The operation control unit 71 also displays a setting screen P12 (see FIG. 9C) that accepts an input operation of an angle relative to the reference azimuth from the operator, and sets the angle input by the operator to the set azimuth angle d1. The operation control unit 71 also displays a work screen D1 (see FIG. 5C) that accepts an operation to set point A from the operator, and when the operation to set point A is accepted from the operator on the work screen D1, the operation control unit 71 generates a target route R (see FIG. 10B) and displays the target route R on the work screen D1.

[0067] According to the third route generation mode, the operator can generate a target route R by setting a set azimuth angle d1 and registering point A, thereby improving the workability of route generation work while maintaining the work accuracy of the work vehicle 10.

[0068] In the third route generation mode, when changing (regenerating) a target route R that has been generated, the operator re-inputs the set azimuth angle d1, deletes the registered point A, and re-registers point A. The operation control unit 71 may also omit the operation of deleting point A. For example, when the operator changes the set azimuth angle d1 and performs an operation to register point A, the operation control unit 71 may update (overwrite) the registered point A with the newly registered point A.

[0069] As another embodiment of the third route generation mode, the operation control unit 71 may accept an input operation (see FIG. 9C) of a set azimuth angle d1 from the operator after setting a reference point (point A) (see FIG. 5C). In this case, when the operator inputs an angle (set azimuth angle d1) on the setting screen P12 and presses the confirm button K2, the operation control unit 71 sets the set azimuth angle d1 and generates and displays a reference line L1 and a target route R (see FIGS. 10A and 10B).

[0070] Furthermore, as another embodiment of the third route generation mode, the operation control unit 71 may set the current orientation of the work vehicle 10 to the set azimuth angle d1. The operation control unit 71 may also display the current orientation of the work vehicle 10 as an initial angle in the input field K16 and accept an operation to change the angle from the operator. Furthermore, the operation control unit 71 may be configured to set the current orientation of the work vehicle 10 to the set azimuth angle d1, or to display that orientation in the input field K16, when the operator sets a reference point (point A) before setting the set azimuth angle d1.

[0071] As described above, the operation control unit 71 generates the target route R in a route generation mode selected by the operator from among a plurality of route generation modes (first route generation mode, second route generation mode, and third route generation mode). In another embodiment, when a previously set azimuth angle d0 is pre-stored in the storage unit 72, the setting processing unit 713 may specify the third route generation mode from among the plurality of route generation modes without relying on the operator's selection operation. In other words, when the set azimuth angle d0 is pre-stored in the storage unit 72, the operation control unit 71 may generate the target route R in the third route generation mode.

[0072] After the target route R is generated, the operator issues an instruction (travel start instruction) to the work vehicle 10 to start automatic travel within the field F. For example, when the work vehicle 10 meets the automatic travel start conditions and is in a state where it can travel automatically, the operator can issue a travel start instruction. When the vehicle control device 11 receives the operator's travel start instruction, it executes automatic travel processing according to the set route generation mode.

[0073] FIG. 11A shows an operation screen (work screen) indicating that the work vehicle 10 has satisfied the automatic driving start conditions and is now in a state where it can drive automatically. When the work vehicle 10 satisfies the automatic driving start conditions, the vehicle control device 11 displays the operation screen shown in FIG. 11A on the operation display unit 73. When the work vehicle 10 is in a state where it can drive automatically, the operator presses an automatic driving button (not shown) on the operation display unit 73 to issue a command to start driving. When the vehicle control device 11 receives the command to start driving, it starts automatic steering of the work vehicle 10 so that the work vehicle 10 follows the target route R generated by the set route generation mode. As a result, the vehicle control device 11 causes the work vehicle 10 to automatically drive by automatic steering along a straight route.

[0074] Fig. 11B shows a display screen (work screen) when the work vehicle 10 is traveling automatically. When the work vehicle 10 starts traveling automatically, the vehicle control device 11 causes the operation device 17 to display the work screen shown in Fig. 11B. For example, based on information (travel information, etc.) acquired from the vehicle control device 11, the operation device 17 causes the work screen of the operation display unit 73 to display the position of the work vehicle 10, the straight route, the area where work has been completed (work status), guide information (operation guidance information), etc.

[0075] Furthermore, the vehicle control device 11 terminates automatic steering at the end of the straight path. For example, in the first path generation mode, when the work vehicle 10 travels straight using automatic steering and approaches the end point Pe (the intersection of the straight path (straight line) and a perpendicular line passing through point B to the reference line L1) (see FIG. 6C), the vehicle control device 11 notifies the operator of guidance information (travel information G4 (see FIG. 12A)), and terminates automatic steering in response to an operation by the operator. Furthermore, in the second path generation mode and the third path generation mode, for example, the vehicle control device 11 terminates automatic steering in response to an operation by the operator.

[0076] In addition, the work screen D1 (see Figure 12A) during automatic driving in the first route generation mode displays driving information G0 including the position of the work vehicle 10, target route R, point B, and the area where work has been completed, driving information G1 indicating the position deviation of the work vehicle 10 from the target route R, driving information G2 and G3 indicating the driving status of the work vehicle 10, and driving information G4 indicating that the work vehicle 10 is approaching the end point.

[0077] In addition, the work screen D1 (see Figure 12B) during automatic driving in the second route generation mode and the third route generation mode displays driving information G0 including the position of the work vehicle 10, the target route R, the area where work has been completed, driving information G1 indicating the position deviation of the work vehicle 10 from the target route R, and driving information G2 indicating the driving status of the work vehicle 10.

[0078] Here, the display contents of the travel information G2 and G3 can be set by the operator. When the operator presses the operation button K1 on the setting screen P1 (see FIG. 5A) to scroll the page, the display processing unit 711 displays the setting screen P2 shown in FIG. 13A. The setting screen P2 includes a setting item K21 ("Information Display 1") for selecting whether or not to display the travel information G2 on the work screen D1 and the display target, and a setting item K22 ("Information Display 2") for selecting whether or not to display the travel information G3 and the display target. After the operator selects the setting item K21 ("Information Display 1"), the operator selects the display target to be displayed in the travel information G2 on the setting screen P21 (see FIG. 13B). Similarly, after the operator selects the setting item K22 ("Information Display 2"), the operator selects the display target to be displayed in the travel information G3 on the setting screen P21.

[0079] 13B shows a state in which "route azimuth" is selected in the third route generation mode. When the operator selects "route azimuth" and presses the confirm button K2, the display processing unit 711 displays "route azimuth" in the travel information G1 of the work screen D1 (see FIG. 12B). Note that when the operator sets a set azimuth (see FIG. 9C), the display processing unit 711 displays the set azimuth as the route azimuth in the travel information G2.

[0080] [Route generation process] An example of the route generation process executed by the operation control unit 71 of the operation device 17 will be described below with reference to Fig. 14. Note that the present invention may be understood as an invention of a route generation method in which the operation device 17 executes part or all of the route generation process, or as an invention of a route generation program for causing the operation device 17 to execute part or all of the route generation method. Furthermore, the route generation process may be executed by one or more processors.

[0081] In step S1, the operation control unit 71 determines whether or not an instruction to start the generation process of the target route R has been received from the operator. For example, the operator selects a work setting (not shown) on a menu screen when starting the work of generating the target route R (route generation work). When the operation control unit 71 receives the operation setting selection operation (route generation start instruction) from the operator (S1: Yes), it shifts the processing to step S2. The operation control unit 71 waits until the route generation start instruction is received from the operator (S1: No).

[0082] In step S2, the operation control unit 71 displays a setting screen P11 (route generation mode selection screen) for selecting a route generation mode. For example, when the operator selects work setting on the menu screen, the operation control unit 71 displays the setting screen P1 shown in FIG. 5A on the operation display unit 73. Furthermore, when the operator selects the setting item K11 for "base line creation" on the setting screen P1, the operation control unit 71 displays the setting screen P11 (see FIG. 5B). On the setting screen P11, the operation control unit 71 displays selectable options: "Point A + Point B" (setting item K13) corresponding to the first route generation mode, "Point A + vehicle azimuth" (setting item K14) corresponding to the second route generation mode, and "Point A + set azimuth" (setting item K15) corresponding to the third route generation mode.

[0083] In step S3, the operation control unit 71 determines whether or not a selection operation for the route generation mode has been accepted. The operator selects one of the setting items K13, K14, or K15 on the setting screen P11 (see FIG. 5B). When the operation control unit 71 accepts the selection operation for the route generation mode from the operator (S3: Yes), it identifies the route generation mode and shifts the processing to step S4. The operation control unit 71 waits until the selection operation for the route generation mode is accepted from the operator (S3: No).

[0084] In step S4, the operation control unit 71 executes a process (route generation process) for generating a target route R along which the work vehicle 10 will automatically travel. For example, if the operator selects setting item K13 ("Point A + Point B") (see FIG. 5B), the operation control unit 71 specifies the first route generation mode and generates a target route R in the first route generation mode (see FIG. 6). For example, if the operator selects setting item K14 ("Point A + vehicle azimuth") (see FIG. 7), the operation control unit 71 specifies the second route generation mode and generates a target route R in the second route generation mode (see FIG. 8). For example, if the operator selects setting item K15 ("Point A + set azimuth") (see FIG. 9), the operation control unit 71 specifies the third route generation mode and generates a target route R in the third route generation mode (see FIG. 10).

[0085] In step S5, the operation control unit 71 registers the generated target route R in the memory unit 72. Specifically, the operation control unit 71 displays the generated target route R on the operation display unit 73, and upon receiving a registration operation from the operator, registers the target route R in the memory unit 72. The operation control unit 71 also stores the target route R in the memory unit 12 of the work vehicle 10.

[0086] [Route generation process in the third route generation mode] Here, an example of the route generation process corresponding to the third route generation mode among the route generation processes in step S4 will be described with reference to Fig. 15. The operator selects setting item K15 ("Point A + set azimuth") (see Fig. 9A), and then selects setting item K12 ("set azimuth") on setting screen P1 (see Fig. 9B) (see Fig. 9B).

[0087] In step S41, the operation control unit 71 determines whether or not a previously set azimuth angle d0 (registered set azimuth angle) is stored in the storage unit 72. If the set azimuth angle d0 is stored in the storage unit 72 (S41: Yes), the operation control unit 71 shifts the processing to step S42. On the other hand, if the set azimuth angle d0 is not stored in the storage unit 72 (S41: No), the operation control unit 71 shifts the processing to step S411.

[0088] In step S42, the operation control unit 71 displays the set azimuth angle d0 as an initial angle in the input field K16 of the setting screen P12 (see FIG. 9C).

[0089] In step S43, the operation control unit 71 determines whether or not a change operation to the initial angle has been accepted from the operator. When the operator wishes to change the registered set azimuth angle d0, the operator operates the operation button K1 on the setting screen P12 (see FIG. 9C) to change the angle to the desired angle. If the change operation has been accepted (S43: Yes), the operation control unit 71 shifts the processing to step S44. On the other hand, if the change operation has not been accepted (S43: No), the operation control unit 71 shifts the processing to step S45.

[0090] In step S44, the operation control unit 71 changes the set azimuth angle d0 (initial angle) displayed on the setting screen P12 in accordance with the change operation by the operator.

[0091] In step S45, the operation control unit 71 determines whether or not a confirmation operation for the set azimuth angle d1 has been accepted. The operator presses the confirm button K2 to confirm the angle displayed in the input field K16 of the setting screen P12 (see FIG. 9C). When the operator presses the confirm button K2, the operation control unit 71 accepts the confirmation operation. If the operation control unit 71 accepts the setting operation (S45: Yes), it shifts the processing to step S46. On the other hand, if the operation control unit 71 does not accept the setting operation (S45: No), it shifts the processing to step S43.

[0092] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S41 that the set azimuth angle d0 is not stored in the storage unit 72 (S41: No), in step S411 the operation control unit 71 displays the input field K16 of the setting screen P12 (see FIG. 9C ). The operation control unit 71 accepts an angle input operation from the operator.

[0093] In step S412, the operation control unit 71 determines whether or not the input operation has been received from the operator. If the input operation has been received (S412: Yes), the operation control unit 71 shifts the process to step S413. The operation control unit 71 waits until the input operation is received (S412: No).

[0094] In step S413, the operation control unit 71 determines whether or not a confirmation operation for the set azimuth angle d1 has been received. The operator presses the confirmation button K2 to confirm the angle displayed in the input field K16 of the setting screen P12 (see FIG. 9C). When the operator presses the confirmation button K2, the operation control unit 71 accepts the confirmation operation. If the operation control unit 71 accepts the setting operation (S413: Yes), it shifts the processing to step S46. On the other hand, if the operation control unit 71 does not accept the setting operation (S413: No), it shifts the processing to step S412. The operation control unit 71 can accept an angle change operation from the operator until it accepts the confirmation operation.

[0095] In step S46, the operation control unit 71 displays a work screen D1 (see FIG. 5C) for receiving a setting operation of the reference point (point A) from the operator.

[0096] In step S47, the operation control unit 71 determines whether or not a registration operation to register point A has been accepted from the operator. For example, the operator moves the work vehicle 10 to the work start position in the field F and presses the point A registration button Ka (see FIG. 5C). When the operator presses the point A registration button Ka, the operation control unit 71 accepts the registration operation. When the operation control unit 71 accepts the registration operation from the operator (S47: Yes), it transitions the processing to step S48. The operation control unit 71 waits until it accepts the registration operation from the operator (S47: No).

[0097] In step S48, the operation control unit 71 generates a target route R. Specifically, when the operation control unit 71 registers the current position of the work vehicle 10 as point A, it sets a straight line that passes through point A and extends in the direction of the set azimuth angle d1 as a reference line L1 (see FIG. 10A). The operation control unit 71 generates a travel route (target route R) that includes the reference line L1 and a plurality of straight lines parallel to the reference line L1 (see FIG. 10B). After step S48, the operation control unit 71 registers the generated target route R in the memory unit 72 in step S5 (see FIG. 14).

[0098] In this way, the operation control unit 71 executes the route generation process and generates the target route R. The vehicle control device 11 causes the work vehicle 10 to automatically travel in accordance with the target route R generated by the operation control unit 71.

[0099] As described above, the operation device 17 according to this embodiment generates a target route R for automatically driving the work vehicle 10 in the field F. The operation device 17 also identifies one of a plurality of route generation modes for generating the target route R based on a reference point (point A) set at a predetermined position in the field F, and generates the target route R using the identified route generation mode. For example, the operation device 17 displays a plurality of route generation modes in a selectable manner (see FIG. 5B), and generates the target route R using the route generation mode selected by the operator.

[0100] Furthermore, when the operation device 17 specifies (sets) the third route generation mode, it sets a set azimuth angle d1 relative to a reference direction (e.g., north), sets a reference point (point A) at a predetermined position in the field F, and generates a target route R based on the set azimuth angle d1 and a reference line L1 passing through point A. Furthermore, when the operation device 17 specifies (sets) the second route generation mode, it sets a vehicle azimuth angle relative to a reference direction (e.g., north), sets a reference point (point A) at a predetermined position in the field F, and generates a target route R based on the vehicle azimuth angle and a reference line L1 passing through point A. The set azimuth angle d1 and the vehicle azimuth angle are each an example of a set angle in the present invention. The operation device 17 may set the set azimuth angle d1 to a set angle for creating the reference line L1, or may set the vehicle azimuth angle to a set angle for creating the reference line L1.

[0101] According to the above configuration, the operator can select a desired route generation mode from among multiple route generation modes. For example, the operator can select a route generation mode (e.g., the second route generation mode or the third route generation mode) that reduces the burden of the route generation work for generating the target route R, and generate the target route R. Furthermore, for example, if the operator selects the third route generation mode, the target route R can be generated by simply setting the set azimuth angle d1 and registering only one reference point (point A). Furthermore, for example, if the operator selects the second route generation mode, the target route R can be generated by simply setting the current azimuth of the vehicle (vehicle azimuth angle) and registering only one reference point (point A). Therefore, compared to the first route generation mode in which two reference points (point A and point B) are registered, the workability of the route generation work can be improved.

[0102] [Other embodiments] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and other embodiments of the present invention will be described below.

[0103] In the above-described embodiment, the display processing unit 711 displays an image representing the set azimuth angle d1 relative to the reference azimuth (e.g., north) and the reference line L1 as a fixed image (explanatory image) on the setting screen P12 shown in FIG. 9C, regardless of the angle entered in the input field K16. In another embodiment, the display processing unit 711 may display the set azimuth angle and the reference line in the image according to the angle entered in the input field K16, as shown in FIG. 16. In the example shown in FIG. 16, the angle in the image corresponds to "72.0093 degrees." This allows the operator to easily grasp the set azimuth angle d1 and the reference line L1.

[0104] Furthermore, for example, when the operator performs an operation to change the angle relative to the initial angle (set azimuth angle d0, registered set azimuth angle), the display processing unit 711 may display the initial angle and the changed angle in a distinguishable manner, as shown in Fig. 17. This allows the operator to easily understand the reference line L1 before and after the angle change. Also, when the operator touches the reference line in the image after the angle change, as shown in Fig. 18, the display processing unit 711 may return the angle of the reference line to the initial angle.

[0105] The display processing unit 711 may also display an image of the work vehicle 10 as shown in Fig. 19. The display processing unit 711 may also rotate the image according to the angle input in the input field K16.

[0106] In another embodiment of the present invention, the storage unit 72 may store one or more set azimuth angles d0 (registered set azimuth angles) associated with at least one of information on the field, the work vehicle 10, and the work type. In this case, the operation control unit 71 may set the angle associated with the information on the target for which the target route R is to be generated as the set azimuth angle d0 (initial angle). For example, a set azimuth angle information DB (see FIG. 20) may be stored in the storage unit 72. The set azimuth angle information DB includes information on the "registration date," "field," "work vehicle," "work type," and "set azimuth angle."

[0107] For example, if the target field for which the target route R is to be generated is "Field Fa," the work vehicle is "Work Vehicle A," and the work type is "Work Wa," the operation control unit 71 sets the "Angle Da" associated with this information to the set azimuth angle d0 (initial angle).

[0108] According to the above configuration, it is possible to generate the target route R by using an appropriate set azimuth angle that meets the conditions, from among set azimuth angles registered in the past. This makes it possible to improve the accuracy of work performed by the work vehicle 10 and the workability of the route generation work.

[0109] In another embodiment of the present invention, the setting processing unit 713 may set a work mode for the work vehicle 10, and identify (set) the route generation mode based on that work mode.

[0110] Specifically, the setting processing unit 713 sets the work mode of the work vehicle 10 to either a work accuracy priority (an example of a first work mode of the present invention) in which the automatic traveling of the work vehicle 10 is stopped when the positioning state in the positioning control unit 161 drops from a predetermined state, or a work continuation priority (an example of a second work mode of the present invention) in which the automatic traveling of the work vehicle 10 is continued when the positioning state in the positioning control unit 161 drops from the predetermined state. The predetermined state refers to, for example, a high-precision state in which RTK positioning is possible.

[0111] For example, the setting processing unit 713 sets the work mode based on a selection operation by the operator to select either the work accuracy priority or the work continuation priority. Specifically, the operator selects "Work Accuracy" (setting item K31) on the setting screen P3 shown in FIG. 21A, and selects the work mode on the setting screen P31 (see FIG. 21B). The setting screen P31 includes "DGNSS" (setting item K32), "RTK Work Accuracy Priority" (setting item K33), and "RTK Work Continuation Priority" (setting item K34). Note that DGNSS is a positioning method that positions the work vehicle 10 based on positioning information (such as GNSS signals) received by a single receiver (positioning antenna 164). When selecting the RTK method, the operator selects "Work Accuracy Priority" or "Work Continuation Priority." For example, the operator selects "Work Accuracy Priority" when he or she wants to temporarily suspend autonomous driving to prevent a decline in work accuracy (prioritize work accuracy) if the positioning status deteriorates. In contrast, for example, the operator selects "prioritize continued work" if he / she wants to continue automatic driving to prevent a decline in work efficiency when the positioning status deteriorates (he / she wants to prioritize work efficiency).

[0112] When the work mode is set to prioritize work accuracy, the vehicle control device 11 causes the work vehicle 10 to travel automatically based on the position information obtained by the RTK system when the positioning state is in a high-accuracy state, and stops (temporarily stops) the automatic travel of the work vehicle 10 when the positioning state deteriorates from a high-accuracy state. For example, if the positioning state deteriorates due to the influence of an obstacle while the work vehicle 10 is traveling automatically, the positioning accuracy will decrease, and the vehicle control device 11 temporarily stops the work vehicle 10. After the work vehicle 10 has temporarily stopped, when the positioning state recovers and becomes a high-accuracy state (high-accuracy positioning completed), the vehicle control device 11 resumes the automatic travel of the work vehicle 10. This prevents a decrease in the work accuracy of the work vehicle 10.

[0113] In contrast, when the work mode is set to prioritize work continuation, the vehicle control device 11 automatically drives the work vehicle 10 based on the position information obtained by the RTK system when the positioning state is in a high-accuracy state, and automatically drives the work vehicle 10 based on the position information obtained by the DGNSS system or the DGPS system when the positioning state deteriorates from the high-accuracy state. For example, if the positioning state deteriorates due to the influence of an obstacle while the work vehicle 10 is automatically driving, the vehicle control device 11 switches the positioning method from the RTK system to the DGNSS system. In this way, the vehicle control device 11 automatically drives the work vehicle 10 based on positioning using the RTK system when the positioning state is in a high-accuracy state, and continues the automatic driving of the work vehicle 10 based on positioning using the DGNSS system when the positioning state deteriorates. This prevents a decrease in the work efficiency of the work vehicle 10.

[0114] In the above configuration, the setting processing unit 713 may identify one of a plurality of route generation modes based on the work mode. For example, when the work accuracy priority is selected (see FIG. 21C), the setting processing unit 713 identifies the first route generation mode. Also, for example, when the work continuation priority is selected (see FIG. 21D), the setting processing unit 713 identifies the second route generation mode or the third route generation mode. Furthermore, when the work continuation priority is selected and a previously set azimuth angle d0 (registered set azimuth angle) is pre-stored in the storage unit 72, the setting processing unit 713 may identify the third route generation mode.

[0115] Furthermore, when the setting processing unit 713 identifies the route generation mode, it presents (suggests) the route generation mode to the operator as a recommended mode. For example, when the work continuation priority is selected, the setting processing unit 713 presents the third route generation mode to the operator as a recommended mode. Furthermore, the setting processing unit 713 may identifiably display the recommended mode on the setting screen P11 (see FIG. 5B). In this way, the operation control unit 71 may present to the operator, from among a plurality of route generation modes, a route generation mode that corresponds to the set work mode.

[0116] In another embodiment of the present invention, the setting processing unit 713 may identify a route generation mode from among a plurality of route generation modes based on at least one of information on the field, the work vehicle, and the work type. For example, the setting processing unit 713 identifies the third route generation mode when the size of the field F is equal to or greater than a predetermined area, and identifies the first route generation mode or the second route generation mode when the size of the field F is less than the predetermined area. Furthermore, for example, the setting processing unit 713 identifies the third route generation mode for a work vehicle 10 in which a set azimuth angle d1 is registered, and identifies the first route generation mode or the second route generation mode for a work vehicle 10 in which a set azimuth angle d1 is not registered or a work vehicle 10 that does not have a function for setting the set azimuth angle d1. Furthermore, for example, the setting processing unit 713 identifies the first route generation mode for work that requires high accuracy, and identifies the second route generation mode or the third route generation mode for work that does not require high accuracy.

[0117] As another embodiment of the present invention, in each of the first route generation mode, the second route generation mode, and the third route generation mode, the operation control unit 71 may execute the registration process of reference points (point A, point B) solely through input operations by the operator on the operation device 17. For example, the operation control unit 71 causes the operation device 17 to display map information of the field F, and the operator specifies any position on the map. The operation control unit 71 sets the reference point at the position specified by the operator. With this configuration, the operator can register reference points and generate the target route R without operating the work vehicle 10.

[0118] The work vehicle 10 of the present invention may be capable of automatic driving even when turning. In this case, the target route R includes a straight route and a turning route. The operator of the work vehicle 10 may be able to switch between automatic driving and manual driving when turning. The work vehicle 10 may also be unmanned and automatically drive along the target route R. In this case, the operator may remotely operate an operation terminal to issue instructions to start driving, etc. The operation terminal used for remote operation may be the operation device 17 according to this embodiment, or may be equipped with each processing unit of the operation device 17.

[0119] The route generation system of the present invention may be configured as a single operation device 17, or may be configured as a server equipped with each processing unit included in the operation device 17. The route generation system may also be configured as a work vehicle 10 equipped with the operation device 17.

[0120] [Notes on the Invention] <Appendix 1> A route generation method for generating a target route for automatically traveling a work vehicle in a field, comprising: identifying one of a plurality of route generation modes for generating the target route based on a reference point set at a predetermined position within the field; generating the target route according to the identified route generation mode; A path generation method that performs the above.

[0121] <Appendix 2> Identifying the route generation mode selected by an operator from the plurality of route generation modes. 2. The route generation method according to claim 1.

[0122] <Appendix 3> displaying a first screen that accepts a selection operation of the route generation mode by the operator; 3. The route generation method according to claim 2.

[0123] <Appendix 4> further executing setting the work mode of the work vehicle to either a first work mode in which the automatic traveling of the work vehicle is stopped when the positioning state has deteriorated from a predetermined state, or a second work mode in which the automatic traveling of the work vehicle is continued when the positioning state has deteriorated from the predetermined state; Identifying the route generation mode based on the set operation mode. A route generation method according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 3.

[0124] <Appendix 5> presenting to an operator, among the plurality of route generation modes, the route generation mode corresponding to the set work mode; 5. A route generation method according to claim 4.

[0125] <Appendix 6> identifying the route generation mode from among the plurality of route generation modes based on at least any one of information on the field, the work vehicle, and the work type; A route generation method according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 5.

[0126] <Appendix 7> When the route generation mode is specified, a second screen is displayed for receiving a setting operation from an operator to set a reference line passing through the reference point; generating the target route including the reference line set in accordance with the setting operation of the operator; A route generation method according to any one of Supplementary notes 1 to 6.

[0127] <Appendix 8> The plurality of path generation modes include: a first route generation mode in which the target route is generated based on a reference line passing through two reference points that are set at two positions in the field in accordance with a setting operation by an operator; a second route generation mode in which the target route is generated based on a reference line that passes through the reference point set at the position of the work vehicle within the field and extends in the direction of the orientation of the work vehicle; a third route generation mode in which the target route is generated based on a reference line that passes through the reference point that is set at the position of the work vehicle in the field and extends in the direction of a setting angle that is set in accordance with a setting operation by the operator; At least two of the following are included: A route generation method according to any one of Supplementary notes 1 to 7.

[0128] <Appendix 9> specifying the third path generation mode from among the plurality of path generation modes when a set angle for generating the target path is stored in advance in a storage unit; 9. A route generation method according to claim 8.

[0129] <Appendix 10> A route generation system that generates a target route for automatically driving a work vehicle in a field, a setting processing unit that identifies one of a plurality of route generation modes that generates the target route based on a reference point that is set at a predetermined position within the field; and a generation processing unit that generates the target route in the specified route generation mode; A route generation system comprising:

[0130] <Appendix 11> A route generation program that generates a target route for automatically driving a work vehicle in a field, identifying one of a plurality of route generation modes for generating the target route based on a reference point set at a predetermined position within the field; generating the target route according to the identified route generation mode; A path generation program for causing one or more processors to execute the above. [Explanation of symbols]

[0131] 1:Automated driving system 10: Work vehicle 11: Vehicle control device 12: Storage section 13: Running gear 14: Work equipment 15: Communications Department 16: Positioning device 17: Operating device 20:Satellite 71: Operation control section 72: Storage section 73: Operation display section 711: Display processing section 712: Reception processing unit 713: Setting processing section 714: Generation processing unit B1: Automatic driving button D1: Work screen (2nd screen) P11: Settings screen (1st screen) F: Field L1: Reference line R: Target route d0: Set azimuth angle (registered set angle) d1: Set azimuth angle (set angle)

Claims

1. A route generation method for generating a target route for automatically traveling a work vehicle in a field, comprising: receiving, via an operation unit provided on the work vehicle or an operation device, an operation to select one of a plurality of route generation modes that generate the target route based on a reference point set at a predetermined position within the field; generating the target route according to the selected route generation mode; A path generation method that performs the above.

2. the plurality of path generation modes are path generation modes that are different from each other and are based on the reference point, The route generation method according to claim 1 .

3. the plurality of route generation modes include a route generation mode in which the target route is generated based on a reference line passing through a first reference point and a second reference point that are set at two different positions in the field. The route generation method according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The first reference point and the second reference point are set at positions spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance or more. The route generation method according to claim 3 .

5. When the work vehicle has traveled the predetermined distance or more after the first reference point is set, the setting of the second reference point is permitted. The route generation method according to claim 4 .

6. When the first reference point and the second reference point are set, information indicating that the first reference point and the second reference point have been set is notified. The route generation method according to claim 3 .

7. A route generation system that generates a target route for automatically driving a work vehicle in a field, a reception processing unit that receives, at an operation unit provided on the work vehicle or the operation device, an operation to select one of a plurality of route generation modes that generate the target route based on a reference point that is set at a predetermined position within the field; and a generation processing unit that generates the target route according to the selected route generation mode; A route generation system comprising:

8. A route generation program that generates a target route for automatically driving a work vehicle in a field, receiving, via an operation unit provided on the work vehicle or an operation device, an operation to select one of a plurality of route generation modes that generate the target route based on a reference point set at a predetermined position within the field; generating the target route according to the selected route generation mode; A path generation program for causing one or more processors to execute the above.

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