Load receiving platform lifting device and vehicle

The loading platform lifting device automatically moves between storage and extended positions based on object detection, addressing the inconvenience of manual operation and ensuring safety by preventing accidental movement.

JP2026015942APending Publication Date: 2026-02-03KYOKUTO KAIHATSU IND
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Patent Information

Application Number
JP2024116876
Authority / Receiving Office
JP · JP
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2024-07-22
Publication Date
2026-02-03

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing loading platform lifting devices require manual operation via buttons or switches to move between storage and extended positions, which is inconvenient for workers.

Method used

A loading platform lifting device with a moving mechanism, lifting mechanism, placement detection means, and movement control unit that automatically moves the platform between storage and extended positions based on object presence detection, allowing hands-free operation.

Benefits of technology

Enables seamless and safe movement of the loading platform without manual intervention, enhancing user convenience and safety by preventing accidental movement when objects are present.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

To provide a cargo receiving platform lifting device and a vehicle capable of moving or stopping a cargo receiving platform between a storage position and an overhang position without operating a button, a switch or the like.SOLUTION: A load receiving base lifting device attached to a lower side of a load box includes a load receiving base, a lifting mechanism configured to lift the load receiving base, a moving mechanism configured to move the load receiving base in a front-rear direction between a storage position below the load box and a projecting position projecting outward from below the load box, a placement detecting unit configured to detect whether or not an object is placed on the load receiving base, and a movement control unit configured to control the moving mechanism. When it is determined that the object is placed on the loading platform based on the detection result of the placement detection means, the movement of the loading platform from the storage position to the overhang position is started.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6
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Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present application relates to a platform lifting device and a vehicle. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 below discloses a vehicle equipped with a loading platform lifting device. This loading platform lifting device retracts and stores the loading platform under the loading platform when the vehicle is traveling, and pulls the loading platform out from under the loading platform during loading and unloading operations, lifting and lowering the loading platform between the floor level of the loading platform and the ground level.

[0003] However, workers often desire to use steps to get onto the loading platform. For example, if a worker wants to use the loading platform as a step, the worker must operate a button or switch to move the loading platform between a stored position under the loading box and an extended position where it projects outward from under the loading box. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 6847559 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] Therefore, the object is to provide a loading platform lifting device and a vehicle that can move or stop the loading platform between a storage position and an extended position without operating buttons, switches, etc. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The receiving platform lifting device is a receiving platform lifting device that is attached below a cargo box and comprises a receiving platform, a lifting mechanism that raises and lowers the receiving platform, a moving mechanism that moves the receiving platform in the forward and backward directions between a storage position below the cargo box and an extended position that extends outward from below the cargo box, a placement detection means that detects whether an object is placed on the receiving platform, and a movement control unit that controls the moving mechanism.When the receiving platform is located at the storage position and the movement control unit determines based on the detection result of the placement detection means that the object has been placed on the receiving platform, the movement control unit starts moving the receiving platform from the storage position toward the extended position.

[0007] Another loading platform lifting device is a loading platform lifting device that is attached below a cargo box and comprises a loading platform, a lifting mechanism that raises and lowers the loading platform, a moving mechanism that moves the loading platform in the forward and backward directions between a storage position below the cargo box and an extended position that extends outward from below the cargo box, a placement detection means that detects whether an object is placed on the loading platform, and a movement control unit that controls the moving mechanism.When the loading platform is located at the storage position and, based on the detection result of the placement detection means, the movement control unit determines that the object has been placed on the loading platform and then has disappeared from the loading platform, the movement control unit starts moving the loading platform from the storage position toward the extended position.

[0008] Another loading platform lifting device is a loading platform lifting device that is attached below a cargo box and comprises a loading platform, a lifting mechanism that raises and lowers the loading platform, a moving mechanism that moves the loading platform in the forward and backward directions between a storage position below the cargo box and an extended position that extends outward from below the cargo box, a placement detection means that detects whether an object is placed on the loading platform, and a movement control unit that controls the moving mechanism; when the loading platform is being moved between the storage position and the extended position, the movement control unit stops the movement of the loading platform if it determines, based on the detection result of the placement detection means, that the object has been placed on the loading platform.

[0009] The vehicle includes the loading platform lifting device and a vehicle body to which the loading platform lifting device is attached. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a side view of a main part of a vehicle according to an embodiment, showing a state in which the loading platform is located in a storage position; [Figure 2] FIG. 10 is a rear view of the main part of the vehicle according to the embodiment, showing a state in which the loading platform is located in a storage position. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a side view of the loading platform lifting device according to the embodiment, showing a state in which the loading platform is located at a lower end position. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a side view of the loading platform lifting device according to the embodiment, showing a state in which the loading platform is located at the upper end position; [Figure 5] FIG. 1 is a plan view of the loading platform lifting device according to the embodiment, showing a state in which the loading platform is located at a storage position; [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a side view of the loading platform lifting device according to the embodiment, showing a state in which a part of the loading platform protrudes from under the loading box. [Figure 7] Enlarged view of region VII in Figure 2 [Figure 8] Cross section of line VIII-VIII in Figure 2 [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a control block diagram of the loading platform lifting device according to the embodiment; [Figure 10] 10A and 10B are side and front views of a changeover switch of the loading platform lifting / lowering device according to the embodiment; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] In each drawing, the dimensions of the components may be enlarged or reduced relative to the actual dimensions, for example, to facilitate understanding, and the dimensional ratios between the drawings may not be consistent. Note that in each drawing, for example, to facilitate understanding, some of the components may be omitted.

[0012] Terms including ordinal numbers such as "first" and "second" are used to describe various components, but these terms are used only to distinguish one component from another, and the components are not particularly limited by these terms. The number of components including ordinal numbers is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, one. Furthermore, the ordinal numbers used in the following specification may differ from the ordinal numbers described in the claims.

[0013] In the following description, the first horizontal direction D1 is also referred to as the front-to-back direction, and the direction of the arrow in each drawing is the forward direction, and the direction opposite to the arrow in each drawing is the rearward direction. The second horizontal direction D2 is also referred to as the left-to-right direction, and the direction of the arrow in each drawing is the leftward direction, and the direction opposite to the arrow in each drawing is the rightward direction.

[0014] That is, each direction is the direction seen from the perspective of a person (driver) sitting in the driver's seat of the vehicle. Note that the terms front, back, left, and right are used for the sake of convenience of explanation, and in reality, the front and back may be reversed, the left and right may be reversed, or the front, back, left, and right may be swapped (rotated 90 degrees). Furthermore, the third direction D3 is the up-down direction D3.

[0015] An embodiment of a vehicle and a loading platform lifting / lowering device will be described below with reference to Figures 1 to 10. Note that the following embodiment is provided as an example to facilitate understanding of the configuration of the vehicle and loading platform lifting / lowering device, and is not intended to limit the configuration of the vehicle and loading platform lifting / lowering device.

[0016] 1, a vehicle 1 includes, for example, a vehicle body 2 and a loading platform lifting device 3 attached to the vehicle body 2. The vehicle 1 is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, a cargo handling vehicle as in this embodiment. That is, the vehicle body 2 may include, for example, a body frame 2a and a cargo box 2b disposed at the rear end of the vehicle body 2 and on top of the body frame 2a as in this embodiment.

[0017] As shown in Fig. 2, the cargo box 2b may include a box portion 2d and a door portion 2e. The door portion 2e may be provided so as to close an opening at the rear of the box portion 2d. The cargo box 2b is loaded and unloaded by opening the door portion 2e. The door portion 2e is not particularly limited, but may include three doors 2f to 2h. The doors 2f and 2g are connected to the box portion 2d so as to be rotatable about an axis in the vertical direction D3, and the door 2h is connected to the door 2g so as to be rotatable about an axis in the vertical direction D3.

[0018] As shown in Figures 1 and 3, the loading platform lifting device 3 may include, for example, a loading platform 4 having a loading surface 4a, a base portion 5 attached to the vehicle frame 2a, a moving mechanism 6 that moves (slides) the loading platform 4 and the base portion 5 in the forward / backward direction D1, and a lifting mechanism 7 that raises and lowers the loading platform 4 (moves it in the up / down direction D3).

[0019] The receiving platform 4 may, for example, as in this embodiment, include a first receiving section 4b whose front end (base end) is connected to the lifting mechanism 7, and a second receiving section 4c that is disposed behind the first receiving section 4b and whose front end (base end) is rotatably connected to the rear end (tip end) of the first receiving section 4b. As a result, when the receiving platform 4 is not in use, the second receiving section 4c is folded so as to overlap the first receiving section 4b, as shown in FIG. 1.

[0020] On the other hand, when the receiving platform 4 is used, the second receiving section 4c is deployed so that the receiving surface 4a of the first receiving section 4b and the receiving surface 4a of the second receiving section 4c are flush with each other, as shown in Fig. 3. The number of receiving sections 4b, 4c is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, two as in this embodiment, or may be, for example, three or more, or may be, for example, only one.

[0021] A step 4d (see FIGS. 5 and 6) may be provided on the back surface (the surface opposite to the receiving surface 4a) of the second receiving portion 4c at the center in the left-right direction D2 of the front end (base end). The step 4d is an elongated member with a generally rectangular cross section.

[0022] The movement mechanism 6 may include, for example, a guide unit 6a that guides the base unit 5 in the front-rear direction D1, and a front-rear drive unit (lateral drive unit) 6b ​​(see FIG. 5) that moves the base unit 5 in the front-rear direction D1, as in this embodiment. The front-rear drive unit 6b is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, a cylinder that can extend and retract in the front-rear direction D1 or a motor. This causes the base unit 5 to move in the front-rear direction D1.

[0023] Therefore, when the receiving platform 4 is not in use, the receiving platform 4 and the base 5 are located in the storage position, which is the front end position, as shown in Fig. 1. In this way, the receiving platform 4 is made compact and stored under the cargo box 2b or the body frame 2a. On the other hand, when the receiving platform 4 is in use, the receiving platform 4 and the base 5 are located in the receiving position, which is the rear end position, as shown in Fig. 3.

[0024] 6, the receiving platform 4 and the base portion 5 may be positioned in a protruding position in which a portion of the receiving platform 4 protrudes outward (rearward) from below the cargo box 2b. In this protruding position, at least the step 4d protrudes outward from below the cargo box 2b, and a worker can use the step 4d as an aid when getting on to the cargo box 2b, for example.

[0025] 3 and 4, the lifting mechanism 7 may include, for example, first and second link units 8 and 9 connected to the receiving platform 4 and the base unit 5, and a lifting drive unit 10 that raises and lowers the receiving platform 4. This allows the receiving platform 4 to rise and lower from a lower end position as shown in FIG. 3 to an upper end position as shown in FIG. 4.

[0026] The lifting drive unit 10 is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, a motor, or may be, for example, an extendable hydraulic cylinder 10a as in this embodiment. The hydraulic cylinder 10a may include, for example, a first cylinder shaft 10b rotatably connected to the first link unit 8 and a second cylinder shaft 10c rotatably connected to the base unit 5 as in this embodiment.

[0027] As shown in Figures 4 and 6, the hydraulic cylinder 10a is provided with a pressure sensor 10d that detects the load pressure (cylinder pressure). The pressure sensor 10d is, for example, a bottom-side pressure sensor that detects the pressure in a bottom-side oil chamber that pushes out the rod. The pressure sensor 10d transmits the detection result to the control device 20 (see Figure 9).

[0028] The first link portion 8 may, for example, as in this embodiment, include a first load receiving shaft portion 8a rotatably connected to the load receiving platform 4 (specifically, the front end portion of the first load receiving portion 4b), and a first base shaft portion 8b rotatably connected to the base portion 5. For example, as in this embodiment, when viewed in the left-right direction D2, the first load receiving shaft portion 8a may be arranged at a first end portion of the first link portion 8, and the first base shaft portion 8b may be arranged at a second end portion of the first link portion 8.

[0029] Furthermore, the second link portion 9 may include, for example, as in this embodiment, a second load receiving shaft portion 9a rotatably connected to the load receiving platform 4 (specifically, the front end portion of the first load receiving portion 4b), and a second base shaft portion 9b rotatably connected to the base portion 5. For example, as in this embodiment, when viewed in the left-right direction D2, the second load receiving shaft portion 9a may be arranged at a first end portion of the second link portion 9, and the second base shaft portion 9b may be arranged at a second end portion of the second link portion 9.

[0030] As a result, the first link portion 8 and the second link portion 9 form a parallel link mechanism. Therefore, when the receiving platform 4 is raised or lowered by the first and second link portions 8, 9 rotating about the base shaft portions 8b, 9b, respectively, the receiving surface 4a is maintained in a horizontal position. Note that when the receiving platform 4 is located at the upper end position, the height of the receiving surface 4a of the receiving platform 4 may be adjusted to the height of the floor surface 2c of the box 2b, for example.

[0031] 5, the receiving platform lifting device 3 may include a power unit 11 arranged at one end of the base 5 in the left-right direction D2. The power unit 11 includes a control device 20 (see FIG. 9) that controls the driving of the receiving platform lifting device 3. The receiving platform lifting device 3 may also include a switch box (not shown) arranged at the other end of the base 5 in the left-right direction D2. The switch box outputs an operation command to the control device 20 to raise / lower or move (slide) the receiving platform 4.

[0032] 2, the receiving platform lifting device 3 may also include a door sensor 12 that detects the position of the door portion 2e of the container 2b. The door sensor 12 is not particularly limited, but may be disposed above the door 2h in the closed position to detect the position of the door 2h. The door sensor 12 is, for example, a non-contact proximity switch.

[0033] The door sensor 12 detects, for example, a detection bracket 12a provided at the upper end of the door 2h. The detection bracket 12a is a plate-shaped member extending upward from the upper end of the door 2h. As shown in FIG. 8, when the door 2h is in the closed position, the detection bracket 12a faces the door sensor 12 with a small gap between them. As a result, when the door sensor 12 detects the detection bracket 12a, the door 2h is in the closed position, and when the door sensor 12 does not detect the detection bracket 12a, the door 2h is in the open position. In this embodiment, the closed position of the door 2h is a position in which the door 2h is completely closed, and all other positions are open positions. In other words, the open position of the door 2h may be a position in which the door 2h is slightly open or a position in which the door 2h is completely open. The door sensor 12 transmits the detection result to the control device 20.

[0034] The receiving platform lifting device 3 also includes a placement detection means for detecting whether an object has been placed on the receiving platform 4. Here, the concept of an object includes a person (e.g., a worker) and an object (e.g., luggage). The placement detection means may detect whether an object has been placed on the receiving platform 4 based on the load on the receiving platform 4. The load on the receiving platform 4 can be determined, for example, from the load on the lift drive unit 10 that raises and lowers the receiving platform 4. Specifically, when an object is placed on the receiving platform 4 and a load is applied to the receiving platform 4, the cylinder pressure of the hydraulic cylinder 10a (in this embodiment, the value of the pressure sensor 10d) increases, and therefore, whether an object has been placed on the receiving platform 4 can be determined from the change in the cylinder pressure of the hydraulic cylinder 10a. In other words, the pressure sensor 10d is an example of a placement detection means.

[0035] The receiving platform lifting device 3 may also include an extension position detection means 13 that detects when the receiving platform 4 is in the extension position. The extension position detection means 13 may be, for example, a sensor that detects the receiving platform 4 in the extension position. As shown in FIG. 6, the extension position detection means 13 is, for example, a proximity switch provided on the guide section 6a. In the example shown in FIG. 6, the extension position detection means 13 detects that the receiving platform 4 is in the extension position by detecting the base section 5 in the extension position. The extension position detection means 13 transmits the detection result to the control device 20.

[0036] The receiving platform lifting device 3 may also include a storage position detection means 14 that detects that the receiving platform 4 is located in the storage position. The storage position detection means 14 may be, for example, a sensor that detects the receiving platform 4 located in the storage position. The storage position detection means 14 is, for example, a proximity switch provided on the guide unit 6a as shown in FIG. 6. In the example shown in FIG. 6, the storage position detection means 14 detects that the receiving platform 4 is located in the storage position by detecting the base unit 5 located in the storage position. The storage position detection means 14 transmits the detection result to the control device 20.

[0037] The control device 20 includes a movement control unit 21 that controls the movement mechanism 6 based on the received detection results. The movement control unit 21 transmits instructions to the front-rear drive unit 6b of the movement mechanism 6 based on at least the detection results of the placement detection means.

[0038] The movement control unit 21 determines whether an object is placed on the receiving platform 4 based on the detection result of the placement detection means (pressure sensor 10d). The movement control unit 21 also determines whether the receiving platform 4 is located in the storage position based on the detection result of the storage position detection means 14. The movement control unit 21 also determines whether the receiving platform 4 is located in the extension position based on the detection result of the extension position detection means 13.

[0039] When the movement control unit 21 determines that the receiving platform 4 is located in the storage position and that an object has been placed on the receiving platform 4, it sends an instruction to the front-rear drive unit 6b to operate to move the receiving platform 4 from the storage position toward the extended position. As a result, when the receiving platform 4 is stored, a worker can, for example, place an object (the worker's feet, luggage, etc.) on the receiving platform 4, causing the receiving platform 4 to extend from under the cargo box 2b, and can use the step 4d of this extended receiving platform 4 to ascend and descend.

[0040] Furthermore, when the movement control unit 21 determines that an object has been placed on the receiving platform 4 while the receiving platform 4 is being moved between the storage position and the extended position, it sends an instruction to the front-rear drive unit 6b to operate to stop the movement of the receiving platform 4. As a result, if an object (the worker himself or herself or a package) is placed on the receiving platform 4 while the receiving platform 4 is moving in the front-rear direction D1, the movement of the receiving platform 4 is stopped, thereby preventing the object from becoming unstable on the receiving platform 4 while it is moving.

[0041] Furthermore, the receiving platform lifting / lowering device 3 may have a plurality of operating modes related to the operation of the receiving platform lifting / lowering device 3. The plurality of operating modes may include an interlocking mode in which the receiving platform 4 moves in the front-to-rear direction D1 in conjunction with the position of the door section 2e (specifically, the door 2h), and a non-interlocking mode in which the receiving platform 4 does not move in the front-to-rear direction D1 in conjunction with the position of the door section 2e (specifically, the door 2h). Furthermore, the non-interlocking mode may include an off mode and a lifting / lowering mode.

[0042] The loading platform lifting device 3 may be provided with a selection operation unit 16 that can select one operation mode from a plurality of operation modes. The selection operation unit 16 is, for example, a changeover switch as shown in FIG. 10. The changeover switch may be a double-pole double-throw switch. In the changeover switch shown in FIG. 10, the neutral position is the off mode, and switching it to the up position selects the linked mode, and switching it to the down position selects the lift mode. The selection operation unit 16 may be located, for example, in the driver's seat.

[0043] <Linked mode> When the interlocking mode is selected by the selection operation unit 16, and the movement control unit 21 receives a detection result from the door sensor 12 that the door 2h is in an open position, the movement control unit 21 sends an instruction to the front-rear drive unit 6b to operate to move the receiving platform 4 backward. On the other hand, when the interlocking mode is selected by the selection operation unit 16, and the movement control unit 21 receives a detection result from the door sensor 12 that the door 2h is in a closed position, the movement control unit 21 sends an instruction to the front-rear drive unit 6b to operate to move the receiving platform 4 forward. In other words, the receiving platform 4 automatically moves in the front-rear direction D1 in conjunction with the opening and closing of the door 2h. This allows the worker to protrude the receiving platform 4 from under the cargo box 2b simply by opening the door 2h without operating a button, switch, or the like, and to use the step 4d of this protruding receiving platform 4 to ascend and descend. In addition, the worker can store the receiving platform 4 under the cargo box 2b simply by closing the door 2h.

[0044] Furthermore, when the interlocking mode is selected, the movement control unit 21 may control the movement mechanism 6 based on the detection result of the placement detection means, as described above. That is, when the interlocking mode is selected, the movement control unit 21 may start moving the receiving platform 4 from the storage position toward the extended position when it determines that the receiving platform 4 is located in the storage position and that an object has been placed on the receiving platform 4. Furthermore, when the interlocking mode is selected and the receiving platform 4 is moving between the storage position and the extended position, the movement control unit 21 may stop the movement of the receiving platform 4 when it determines that an object has been placed on the receiving platform 4. Furthermore, when the interlocking mode is selected, the movement control unit 21 may not move the receiving platform 4 from the extended position to the stored position when it determines that the receiving platform 4 is located in the extended position and an object is placed on the receiving platform 4. In other words, when the movement control unit 21 determines that the receiving platform 4 is located in the extended position and an object is placed on the receiving platform 4, it will not move the receiving platform 4 from the extended position to the stored position even if it receives a detection result from the door sensor 12 that the door 2h is in the closed position or receives a command to move (slide) the receiving platform 4 from the switch box. This makes it possible to prevent the receiving platform 4 from being erroneously stored when, for example, you have forgotten to place a package on the receiving platform 4.

[0045] <Off mode> When the off mode is selected by the selection operation unit 16, power to the movement control unit 21 is cut off. This prevents the movement control unit 21 from controlling the movement mechanism 6. This prevents the receiving platform 4 from sliding unintentionally when the door 2h is opened or closed.

[0046] <Lift mode> When the lifting mode is selected by the selection operation unit 16, the worker can raise and lower the receiving platform 4 by, for example, operating a switch box. When the lifting mode is selected, the movement control unit 21 ignores the detection result of the door sensor 12. Here, when the movement control unit 21 ignores the detection result of the door sensor 12, it means that the movement control unit 21 does not move the receiving platform 4 even when it receives a detection result from the door sensor 12 that the door 2h is in an open or closed position. As a result, the receiving platform 4 does not slide even when the door 2h is opened or closed, allowing the worker to raise and lower the receiving platform 4.

[0047] As described above, in this embodiment, the vehicle 1 includes the loading platform lifting / lowering device 3 and the vehicle body 2 to which the loading platform lifting / lowering device 3 is attached.

[0048] Furthermore, as in this embodiment, the receiving platform lifting device 3 is a receiving platform lifting device 3 that is attached below the cargo box 2b, and is equipped with a receiving platform 4, a lifting mechanism 7 that raises and lowers the receiving platform 4, a moving mechanism 6 that moves the receiving platform 4 in the forward and backward direction D1 between a storage position below the cargo box 2b and an extended position that extends outward from below the cargo box 2b, a placement detection means (in this embodiment, a pressure sensor 10d) that detects whether an object is placed on the receiving platform 4, and a movement control unit 21 that controls the movement mechanism 6, and it is preferable that the movement control unit 21 be configured so that when the receiving platform 4 is located at the storage position and determines based on the detection result of the placement detection means (in this embodiment, the pressure sensor 10d) that the object has been placed on the receiving platform 4, it starts moving the receiving platform 4 from the storage position toward the extended position.

[0049] With this configuration, an operator can move the receiving platform 4 from the storage position under the cargo box 2b to the extended position by placing an object on the receiving platform 4 without operating any buttons, switches, etc. For example, an operator can make the receiving platform 4 extend from under the cargo box 2b by simply stepping on the receiving platform 4 located in the storage position, and can use the steps 4d of this extended receiving platform 4 to ascend and descend.

[0050] Furthermore, as in this embodiment, the receiving platform lifting device 3 is attached below the cargo box 2b and comprises a receiving platform 4, a lifting mechanism 7 for raising and lowering the receiving platform 4, a moving mechanism 6 for moving the receiving platform 4 in the forward and backward direction D1 between a storage position below the cargo box 2b and an extended position extending outward from below the cargo box 2b, a placement detection means (in this embodiment, a pressure sensor 10d) for detecting whether an object is placed on the receiving platform 4, and a movement control unit 21 for controlling the movement mechanism 6, and it is preferable that when the movement control unit 21 is moving the receiving platform 4 between the storage position and the extended position, it stops the movement of the receiving platform 4 when it determines based on the detection result of the placement detection means (in this embodiment, the pressure sensor 10d) that the object has been placed on the receiving platform 4.

[0051] With this configuration, an operator can stop the loading platform 4 while it is moving between the storage position and the extended position by placing an object on the loading platform 4 without operating any buttons, switches, etc.

[0052] Furthermore, as in this embodiment, in the loading platform lifting device 3, the lifting mechanism 7 is preferably configured to include a hydraulic actuator (in this embodiment, a hydraulic cylinder) 10a that raises and lowers the loading platform 4, and the placement detection means detects whether or not the object is placed on the loading platform 4 based on the load pressure of the hydraulic actuator (in this embodiment, a hydraulic cylinder) 10a.

[0053] According to this configuration, it is possible to easily detect whether an object is placed on the receiving platform 4 by detecting the load pressure of the hydraulic actuator (hydraulic cylinder in this embodiment) 10a.

[0054] Furthermore, as in this embodiment, the receiving platform lifting device 3 is preferably configured to include an extension position detection means 13 that detects when the receiving platform 4 is located in the extension position, and the movement control unit 21 is configured not to move the receiving platform 4 from the extension position toward the storage position when it determines that the receiving platform 4 is located in the extension position based on the detection result of the extension position detection means 13 and that the object has been placed on the receiving platform 4 based on the detection result of the placement detection means (in this embodiment, pressure sensor 10d).

[0055] According to this configuration, for example, when a person forgets to place a load on the loading platform 4, it is possible to prevent the loading platform 4 from being stored by mistake.

[0056] The vehicle 1 and the platform lifting device 3 are not limited to the configurations of the above-described embodiment, and are not limited to the above-described effects. Furthermore, the vehicle 1 and the platform lifting device 3 can be modified in various ways without departing from the spirit of the present invention. For example, it is possible to arbitrarily select one or more of the configurations and methods according to the various modified examples described below and use them in the configurations and methods according to the above-described embodiment.

[0057] (1) In the receiving platform lifting / lowering device 3 according to the above embodiment, the movement control unit 21 is configured to start moving the receiving platform 4 from the stored position toward the extended position when the receiving platform 4 is located in the stored position and the movement control unit 21 determines that an object has been placed on the receiving platform 4 based on the detection result of the pressure sensor 10d. However, the receiving platform lifting / lowering device 3 is not limited to this configuration. For example, the movement control unit 21 may be configured to start moving the receiving platform 4 from the stored position toward the extended position when the receiving platform 4 is located in the storage position and, based on the detection result of the pressure sensor 10d, determines that an object has been placed on the receiving platform 4 and then the object has disappeared from the receiving platform 4. It is dangerous if the receiving platform 4 moves with a person on it, but with this configuration, for example, by stepping on the receiving platform 4 once with your foot and then removing your foot from the receiving platform 4, the receiving platform 4 will start moving, thereby increasing safety.

[0058] (2) In the receiving platform lifting device 3 according to the above embodiment, the lifting mechanism 7 includes a hydraulic cylinder 10a that raises and lowers the receiving platform 4, and the pressure sensor 10d detects whether an object is placed on the receiving platform 4 based on the load pressure of the hydraulic cylinder 10a. However, the receiving platform lifting device 3 is not limited to this configuration. The lifting mechanism 7 may also be configured to include a hydraulic motor that raises and lowers the receiving platform 4, and the pressure sensor 10d may detect whether an object is placed on the receiving platform 4 based on the load pressure of the hydraulic motor.

[0059] (3) The placement detection means may also be configured to detect whether an object is placed on the receiving platform 4 based on the measurement results of a weight scale (e.g., a load cell) embedded in the upper surface of the receiving platform 4.

[0060] (4) In the receiving platform lifting / lowering device 3 according to the above embodiment, the door section 2e is configured to have three doors 2f to 2h. However, the receiving platform lifting / lowering device 3 is not limited to this configuration. For example, the door section 2e may be configured to have two doors that open like a double door.

[0061] (5) Furthermore, the receiving platform lifting / lowering device 3 according to the above embodiment is configured to include one door sensor 12. However, the receiving platform lifting / lowering device 3 is not limited to this configuration. For example, the receiving platform lifting / lowering device 3 may be configured to include multiple door sensors 12. In this case, the multiple door sensors 12 may each detect the position of the corresponding door 2f to 2h.

[0062] (6) Furthermore, in the loading platform lifting device 3, if the door section 2e is equipped with two doors that open like a folding screen, the door sensor 12 may detect only one of the left and right doors, or may detect both the left and right doors separately.

[0063] (7) Furthermore, when a door sensor 12 is provided for each of multiple doors, the movement control unit 21 may extend the receiving platform 4 when it detects that at least one door is in an open position, or may extend the receiving platform 4 when it detects that all doors are in an open position.

[0064] (8) In the receiving platform lifting device 3 according to the above embodiment, the door sensor 12 is disposed above the door 2h in the closed position. However, the receiving platform lifting device 3 is not limited to this configuration. The door sensor 12 may be a sensor that rotates at least one of the doors 2f-2h to the side of the cargo box 2b and detects that the door has rotated to a predetermined position. In this case, the door sensor 12 may be a proximity switch provided on the side of the cargo box 2b. As a result, when the door sensor 12 detects the door 2f-2h (detection bracket 12a) to be detected, the door 2f-2h is in the open position. When the door sensor 12 does not detect the door 2f-2h (detection bracket 12a), the door 2f-2h is in the closed position. In other words, the open position of the door 2f-2h is a position in which the door 2f-2h is rotated to a position substantially parallel to the side of the cargo box 2b, and all other positions are closed positions.

[0065] (9) Furthermore, in the receiving platform lifting device 3 according to the above embodiment, when the receiving platform 4 is in the extended position, a portion of the receiving platform 4 extends outward from below the cargo box 2b. However, the receiving platform lifting device 3 is not limited to this configuration. For example, when the receiving platform 4 is in the extended position, the entire receiving platform 4 may extend outward from below the cargo box 2b. In this case, the receiving platform 4 does not need to be provided with the step 4d, and the entire second receiving portion 4c of the receiving platform 4 may be used as a step.

[0066] (10) When the control device 20 is switched to the lifting mode while the loading platform 4 is in the extended position, the control device 20 may move the loading platform 4 to the loading position (rear end position).

[0067] (11) Furthermore, when the control device 20 is switched to the interlocking mode while the loading platform 4 is in the lifted / lowered position, the control device 20 may move the loading platform 4 to the extended position.

[0068] (12) Furthermore, in the loading platform lifting device 3 according to the above embodiment, the movement control unit 21 is configured to be included in the control device 20. However, the loading platform lifting device 3 is not limited to this configuration. The movement control unit 21 may not be included in the control device 20, but may be separate from the control device 20.

[0069] (13) In addition, in the receiving platform lifting device 3 according to the above embodiment, the step 4d is configured as a long member having a substantially rectangular cross section. However, the receiving platform lifting device 3 is not limited to such a configuration. If the upper surface of the receiving platform 4 (in the above embodiment, the back surface of the second receiving portion 4c) is inclined relative to the ground surface in the extended position, it is preferable that the step 4d has a cross-sectional shape such that the upper surface is parallel to the ground surface. [Explanation of symbols]

[0070] 1...vehicle, 2...vehicle body, 2a...vehicle frame, 2b...packing box, 2c...floor surface, 2d...box section, 2e...door section, 2f-2h...door, 3...load receiving platform lifting device, 4...load receiving platform, 4a...load receiving surface, 4b...first load receiving section, 4c...second load receiving section, 4d...step, 5...base section, 6...moving mechanism, 6a...guide section, 6b...front / rear drive section, 7...lifting mechanism, 8...first link section, 8a...first load receiving shaft section, 8b...first base shaft section, 9...second link section, 9a...second load receiving shaft section, 9 b...second base shaft portion, 10...lifting drive portion, 10a...hydraulic cylinder, 10b...first cylinder shaft portion, 10c...second cylinder shaft portion, 10d...pressure sensor, 11...power unit, 12...door sensor, 12a...detection bracket, 13...extension position detection means, 14...storage position detection means, 16...selection operation portion, 20...control device, 21...movement control portion, D1...first horizontal direction (front-to-back direction), D2...second horizontal direction (left-to-right direction), D3...up-down direction

Claims

1. A loading platform lifting device attached below a loading box, A loading platform and a lifting mechanism for lifting and lowering the loading platform; a movement mechanism that moves the cargo receiving platform in the front-rear direction between a storage position under the cargo box and an extended position where the platform extends outward from under the cargo box; a placement detection means for detecting whether an object is placed on the receiving platform; a movement control unit that controls the movement mechanism, The loading platform lifting device, when the movement control unit determines that the loading platform is located at the storage position and that the object has been placed on the loading platform based on the detection results of the placement detection means, starts moving the loading platform from the storage position toward the extended position.

2. A loading platform lifting device attached below a loading box, A loading platform and a lifting mechanism for lifting and lowering the loading platform; a movement mechanism that moves the cargo receiving platform in the front-rear direction between a storage position under the cargo box and an extended position where the platform extends outward from under the cargo box; a placement detection means for detecting whether an object is placed on the receiving platform; a movement control unit that controls the movement mechanism, The loading platform lifting device, when the loading platform is located at the storage position and, based on the detection results of the placement detection means, determines that the object has been placed on the loading platform and then the object has disappeared from the loading platform, starts moving the loading platform from the storage position toward the extended position.

3. A loading platform lifting device attached below a loading box, A loading platform and a lifting mechanism for lifting and lowering the loading platform; a movement mechanism that moves the cargo receiving platform in the front-rear direction between a storage position under the cargo box and an extended position where the platform extends outward from under the cargo box; a placement detection means for detecting whether an object is placed on the receiving platform; a movement control unit that controls the movement mechanism, A loading platform lifting device in which, when the movement control unit is moving the loading platform between the storage position and the extended position, if it determines that the object has been placed on the loading platform based on the detection result of the placement detection means, it stops the movement of the loading platform.

4. The lifting mechanism includes a hydraulic actuator that lifts and lowers the loading platform, 4. The loading platform lifting device according to claim 1, wherein the loading detection means detects whether or not the object is placed on the loading platform based on the load pressure of the hydraulic actuator.

5. a position detecting means for detecting that the loading platform is in the extended position; A loading platform lifting device as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the movement control unit does not move the loading platform from the extended position toward the storage position when it determines that the loading platform is located in the extended position based on the detection results of the extended position detection means and that the object is placed on the loading platform based on the detection results of the placement detection means.

6. a storage position detection means for detecting that the loading platform is located at the storage position; 3. The loading platform lifting device according to claim 1, wherein the movement control unit determines that the loading platform is located at the storage position based on the detection result of the storage position detection means.

7. The loading platform lifting device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, a vehicle body to which the loading platform lifting device is attached.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

  • Loading platform lifting device

    JP6847559B2