Alert system

Abstract

To provide an alert system allowing an operator to easily determine dangerous behavior.SOLUTION: The alert system includes an industrial vehicle, a sensor unit, and a sound alert unit 30, wherein the industrial vehicle includes an input unit 18A to which an information signal is input, a storage unit 18B that stores a plurality of dangerous act data in which dangerous acts, information signals, and dangerous act IDs are associated with each other, a processing unit 18C that identifies the dangerous act data from the information signal, and an output unit 18D that outputs a first signal related to the dangerous act ID. The voice alert unit 30 includes a voice data storage unit 30A that stores a plurality of pieces of voice data in which a dangerous act ID and warning voice data are associated with each other, a voice data reproduction unit 30B that specifies the voice data from the first signal and reproduces the warning voice data, and a speaker 30C that outputs the voice of the warning voice data, wherein the warning voice data includes first information related to the dangerous act of the associated dangerous act ID.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an alert system. [Background technology]

[0002] Forklift operation management systems for managing the operational status of forklifts have been known for some time. A forklift operation management system is comprised of, for example, a forklift equipped with a data logger unit (hereinafter referred to as DLU), a server communicatively connected to the DLU, and a management device communicatively connected to the server.

[0003] The DLU can store not only the forklift operation status but also any dangerous forklift behavior on the server, allowing the administrator of the forklift operation management system to access the server from the management device and check the forklift operation status and dangerous behavior.

[0004] On the other hand, when a dangerous behavior occurs, the forklift warns the operator with a buzzer or a warning light. For example, when there is a step on the road surface, the forklift described in Patent Document 1 notifies the operator that a step is nearby by illuminating a warning light provided on the instrument panel in the driver's seat or sounding a buzzer. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 9-272700 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] Dangerous actions of forklifts include not only driving on roads with uneven surfaces, but also various other actions (for example, colliding with an obstacle above or with a person). However, if the warning means used by the forklift described in Patent Document 1 is only a buzzer and a warning light, the operator may not be able to immediately determine what kind of dangerous action has been detected.

[0007] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide an alert system that enables an operator to easily determine dangerous behavior. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] In order to solve the above problem, the alert system according to the present invention comprises: an industrial vehicle that performs a cargo handling traveling operation in a predetermined work area; a sensor unit provided in the work area and / or the industrial vehicle for detecting dangerous behavior of the industrial vehicle; a voice alert unit provided in the industrial vehicle and configured to issue a voice warning to an operator of the industrial vehicle; An alert system comprising: The industrial vehicle is an operation control unit that controls the cargo handling traveling operation; an input unit to which an information signal relating to the detection information of the sensor unit and / or the control information of the operation control unit is input; a storage unit that stores a plurality of risky behavior data in which the risky behavior, a determination condition for the risky behavior, and a unique risky behavior ID are linked; a processing unit that identifies risky behavior data that satisfies the determination condition based on the information signal input to the input unit; an output unit that outputs a first signal related to the risky behavior ID of the risky behavior data identified by the processing unit, The audio alert unit a voice data storage unit that stores a plurality of voice data items that link the risky behavior ID with warning voice data items; an audio data playback unit that receives the first signal and plays back the warning audio data associated with the risky behavior ID of the first signal; a speaker that outputs the sound of the warning sound data being reproduced by the sound data reproduction unit, The warning audio data is characterized in that it includes first information regarding the dangerous behavior of the linked dangerous behavior ID.

[0009] In the alert system, The storage unit associates the dangerous action ID with the restricted action of the cargo handling traveling operation, the output unit outputs a second signal related to the restricted action linked to the risky action ID to the action control unit; the operation control unit executes the restricted action based on the second signal, The warning audio data may be configured to include second information regarding the cargo handling traveling operation for avoiding the dangerous act of the linked dangerous act ID.

[0010] In the alert system, the storage unit associates the risky behavior ID with an output timing for outputting the second signal, the output unit outputs the second signal in accordance with the output timing; The output timing can be configured to be simultaneous with the timing of outputting the first signal or after a predetermined time has elapsed since the timing of outputting the first signal.

[0011] The alert system comprises: a light alert unit that issues a first warning to the operator by light; The optical alert unit may be configured to issue the first warning while the warning audio data is being played back.

[0012] The alert system comprises: a sound alert unit that issues a second warning to the operator using a sound other than voice; The audio data reproducing unit may be configured to reproduce the warning audio data after the second warning by the sound alert unit has ended.

[0013] In the alert system, The voice data storage unit The warning sound data may be rewritable in a memory card.

[0014] In the alert system, the storage unit and / or the voice data storage unit associates the risk level of the risky behavior with the risky behavior ID, The audio data reproducing unit may be configured to reproduce the warning audio data multiple times when the danger level exceeds a predetermined threshold level, and to increase the number of times the warning audio data is reproduced as the danger level increases.

[0015] In the alert system, a first obstacle is present in the working area at a position equal to or higher than a predetermined height; The sensor unit a first sensor unit provided in the work area and configured to detect when the industrial vehicle reaches the predetermined height; a second sensor unit provided in the industrial vehicle and configured to detect a second obstacle present at a position lower than the predetermined height, The audio data reproducing unit When the first sensor unit detects the industrial vehicle, first warning audio data is reproduced, which is the warning audio data; When the second sensor unit detects the second obstacle, second warning sound data is reproduced, which is the warning sound data; the first warning audio data includes first obstacle information regarding a collision with the first obstacle, The second warning audio data may be configured to include second obstacle information relating to the second obstacle.

[0016] In the alert system, the first warning audio data includes first obstacle avoidance information regarding the cargo handling traveling operation for avoiding a collision with the first obstacle, The second warning audio data may be configured to include second obstacle avoidance information related to the cargo handling traveling operation for avoiding a collision with the second obstacle.

[0017] The alert system comprises: a server communicably connected to the industrial vehicle; a management device communicatively connected to the server; The industrial vehicle is a photographing unit that photographs the surroundings to generate video data and uploads the video data to the server at least while the warning audio data is being played back; The management device The video data can be acquired from the server. [Effects of the Invention]

[0018] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an alert system that allows an operator to easily determine dangerous behavior. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0019] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram illustrating an alert system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a first control unit, a second control unit, and a voice alert unit according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an alert system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the relationship between a forklift, a server, and a management device in the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0020] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS An embodiment of an alert system according to the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0021] [First embodiment] 1 shows an alert system 1A according to a first embodiment of the present invention. The alert system 1A includes at least one forklift 10 that performs cargo handling traveling operations in a predetermined work area, a sensor unit, and an audio alert unit 30. The sensor unit includes a first sensor unit 21 provided in the work area and a second sensor unit 22 provided on the forklift 10.

[0022] The work area is an area within any building such as a factory or warehouse. Above the work area, there are obstacles (not shown) such as a ceiling, gate, or protrusion (hereinafter referred to as "upper obstacles"). The upper obstacles correspond to the "first obstacles" of the present invention. In addition, the work area is provided with a plurality of shelves (not shown), on which cargo W and the like are stored.

[0023] The first sensor unit 21 is provided at a predetermined height in the work area, for example, at a position slightly lower than an upper obstacle that may collide with the forklift 10 (including the load W lifted by the forklift 10). When the first sensor unit 21 detects the forklift 10 at that position, it transmits a first detection signal to the forklift 10 via any wireless communication means (for example, a beacon). The first sensor unit 21 includes, for example, at least one area sensor attached to an inner wall of a building. The area sensor is, for example, a 2D-LiDAR.

[0024] The forklift 10 is, for example, a counterbalance type forklift, and corresponds to the "industrial vehicle" of the present invention. The forklift 10 includes a vehicle body 11. The vehicle body 11 includes front and rear wheels at its lower portion and an operator's seat at its upper portion. An accelerator and a brake are provided below and in front of the seat.

[0025] The accelerator is an accelerator pedal configured to be operable by an operator in the driver's seat when stepped on with the foot. When the accelerator is in the on state (pedal depressed), it accelerates the vehicle body 11 in accordance with the amount of pedal depression (accelerator opening), while when it switches from the on state to the off state (pedal not depressed), it generates weak regenerative braking to decelerate the vehicle body 11. The brake is a brake pedal configured to be operable by an operator in the driver's seat when stepped on with the foot. When the brake is in the on state (pedal depressed), it generates regenerative braking stronger than the accelerator regenerative braking to decelerate the vehicle body 11, while when it is in the off state, it does not generate regenerative braking. The operator can cause the vehicle body 11 to perform traveling operations such as acceleration and deceleration by operating the accelerator and / or brake.

[0026] Load handling levers (tilt lever and lift lever) are provided in front of the driver's seat. The load handling levers are connected to the load handling device 12 via a load handling mechanism including a load handling motor provided in the vehicle body 11. The operator can cause the load handling device 12 to perform a load handling operation by operating the load handling levers. The load handling operation and the above-mentioned traveling operation are included in the "load handling traveling operation" of the present invention.

[0027] A cargo handling device 12 is provided at the front of the vehicle body 11. The cargo handling device 12 includes a mast 13, a backrest 14, forks 15, a tilt cylinder, and a lift cylinder, and performs cargo handling operations.

[0028] The mast 13 is provided at the front of the vehicle body 11 and raises and lowers the forks 15. The mast 13 comprises an outer mast 13a and an inner mast 13b. The outer mast 13a comprises a pair of left and right guide rails extending vertically, and a cross beam connecting the upper ends of the guide rails. The inner mast 13b is provided inside the guide rails of the outer mast 13a and rises and lowers along the guide rails of the outer mast 13a.

[0029] The backrest 14 is a frame that prevents the cargo W loaded on the forks 15 from tipping backward, and has a lift bracket attached to its lower part. The lift bracket supports the forks 15 and moves up and down along the mast 13. That is, when the mast 13 (inner mast 13b) moves up and down, the backrest 14 (including the lift bracket) and the forks 15 move up and down. The forks 15 are a pair of L-shaped arms on the left and right, and are attached to the front of the backrest 14.

[0030] The tilt cylinder is a hydraulic cylinder for tilting the mast 13 in the forward and backward directions. For example, when the tilt lever is tilted forward, the tilt cylinder extends and the mast 13 tilts forward, and when the tilt lever is tilted backward, the tilt cylinder contracts and the mast 13 tilts backward. When the tilt lever is returned to the neutral position (a position that does not tilt the mast 13 forward or backward), the tilting of the mast 13 stops.

[0031] The lift cylinder is a hydraulic cylinder for raising and lowering the mast 13. For example, when the lift lever is tilted forward, the lift cylinder contracts and the inner mast 13b descends, and when the lift lever is tilted backward, the lift cylinder expands and the inner mast 13b rises. When the lift lever is returned to the neutral position (a position where the inner mast 13b is neither tilted forward nor backward), the raising and lowering of the inner mast 13b stops.

[0032] A head guard 16 consisting of a roof and pillars is provided on the upper part of the vehicle body 11. The head guard 16 is a protective frame for protecting the operator in the driver's seat from falling objects. A second sensor unit 22 and a voice alert unit 30 are provided below the roof of the head guard 16. In addition, a first control unit 17 and a second control unit 18 are provided in the vehicle body 11.

[0033] The second sensor unit 22 detects an obstacle that exists at a position lower than the predetermined height at which the first sensor unit 21 is provided. In this embodiment, the obstacle is a person, which corresponds to the "second obstacle" of the present invention.

[0034] The second sensor unit 22 includes a photographing unit that photographs the surroundings of the vehicle body 11 and generates video data, and a video processing unit that transmits a second detection signal to the first control unit 17 when a person is included in the video data. The video processing unit can extract a person from the video data by any known image processing method and can also calculate the distance from the vehicle body 11 to the person. In other words, the second sensor unit 22 can distinguish between a person who is relatively far away and a person who is relatively close when detecting the person. The second sensor unit 22 includes, for example, at least one drive recorder.

[0035] The first control unit 17 includes the "operation control unit" of the present invention, and controls the cargo handling traveling operation while communicating with the second control unit 18. The first control unit 17 is configured, for example, by a microcomputer, and is provided inside the vehicle body 11. The first control unit 17 may include various sensors (for example, a lift sensor, an obstacle sensor, a cargo presence sensor, a pressure sensor, a seating sensor, etc.) used to control the cargo handling traveling operation. Alternatively, the sensor unit may include various sensors.

[0036] 2, the second control unit 18 includes an input unit 18A, a storage unit 18B, a processing unit 18C, and an output unit 18D. The second control unit 18 includes, for example, a data logger unit (DLU), and is provided on a pillar of the head guard 16.

[0037] The input unit 18A acquires information signals relating to detection information from the sensor units (first sensor unit 21 and second sensor unit 22) and / or control information from the first control unit 17. The information signals include, for example, a first detection signal from the first sensor unit 21, a second detection signal from the second sensor unit 22, detection signals from various sensors, and a control signal for a cargo handling traveling operation by the first control unit 17.

[0038] The storage unit 18B stores a plurality of pieces of dangerous action data that link together unique dangerous action IDs (hereinafter referred to as IDs), predefined dangerous actions, information signals (detection information and / or control information), and restricted actions for cargo handling travel operations. In this embodiment, the IDs are numbers, but the IDs may also be letters or symbols, or a combination of letters, symbols, and numbers.

[0039] The operator or the system administrator can change the content of the dangerous behavior data stored in the storage unit 18B and can also add new dangerous behavior data. For example, the multiple dangerous behavior data can include the four dangerous behavior data shown in Table 1 below.

[0040] [Table 1]

[0041] The dangerous action data for ID "001" associates the dangerous action "colliding with an obstacle above while traveling," the information signal "first detection signal and traveling operation," and the restricted action "loading operation and traveling operation" with ID "001." The dangerous action "colliding with an obstacle above while traveling" defines the dangerous action of the loading device 12 or the load W of the forklift 10 colliding with an obstacle above while traveling. The information signal "first detection signal and traveling operation" defines the dangerous action as being determined based on the input unit 18A receiving the first detection signal and a control signal for the traveling operation (e.g., a signal related to the amount of depression of the accelerator pedal). The restricted action "loading operation and traveling operation" defines that the first control unit 17 prohibits loading operation (excluding lowering operation of the mast 13) and traveling operation when the dangerous action occurs.

[0042] The dangerous action data for ID "002" associates the dangerous action "colliding with an obstacle above during loading and unloading," the information signal "first detection signal and loading and unloading operation," and the restricted action "loading and unloading operation" with ID "002." The dangerous action "colliding with an obstacle above during loading and unloading" defines a dangerous action in which the loading device 12 or the load W of the forklift 10 collides with an obstacle above while the forklift 10 is stopped and performing a loading and unloading operation. The information signal "first detection signal and loading and unloading operation" defines a condition for determining the dangerous action as the input unit 18A receiving the first detection signal and a control signal for the loading and unloading operation (e.g., a signal related to the operation of the lift lever). The restricted action "loading and unloading operation" defines that the first control unit 17 prohibits loading and unloading operations (excluding the lowering operation of the mast 13) when the dangerous action occurs.

[0043] The dangerous action data for ID "003" associates the dangerous action "collision with a person in close proximity," the information signal "second detection signal (close distance) and traveling action," and the restricted action "traveling action (stop)" with ID "003." The dangerous action "collision with a person in close proximity" defines a dangerous action in which the forklift 10 collides with a person within a preset distance. The information signal "second detection signal (close distance) and traveling action" defines the determination condition for the dangerous action as the input unit 18A receiving the second detection signal (including information that the distance to the person is less than a predetermined threshold) and a control signal for the traveling action. The restricted action "traveling action (stop)" defines that the first control unit 17 prohibits traveling action when the dangerous action occurs. In other words, the forklift 10 automatically decelerates and eventually comes to a stop.

[0044] The dangerous action data for ID "004" associates the dangerous action "collision with a person at a long distance," the information signal "second detection signal (long distance) and traveling action," and the restricted action "traveling action (speed limit)" with ID "004." The dangerous action "collision with a person at a long distance" defines a dangerous action in which the forklift 10 collides with a person located at a distance greater than a predetermined distance. The information signal "second detection signal (long distance) and traveling action" defines a condition for determining the dangerous action as the input unit 18A receiving a second detection signal (including information that the distance to the person is equal to or greater than the threshold) and a control signal for traveling action. The restricted action "traveling action (speed limit)" defines a speed limit (e.g., an upper limit of 4 km / h) imposed by the first control unit 17 upon the occurrence of the dangerous action. In other words, the forklift 10 is prohibited from traveling at a speed exceeding 4 km / h.

[0045] The storage unit 18B may also store dangerous behavior data in which the ID, the dangerous behavior, and the information signal are linked (without linking the restricted behavior of the cargo handling traveling operation). The dangerous behavior corresponds to, for example, not wearing a seat belt, low battery, forgetting to apply the parking brake, etc.

[0046] The processing unit 18C identifies the risky behavior data linked to the information signal acquired by the input unit 18A from the plurality of risky behavior data stored in the memory unit 18B. For example, when the input unit 18A acquires the first detection signal and the control signal of the running motion, the processing unit 18C refers to the memory unit 18B and identifies the risky behavior data with ID "001."

[0047] The output unit 18D transmits a first signal related to the ID of the dangerous act data identified by the processing unit 18C to the audio alert unit 30. If a restricted act of loading and unloading travel operation is linked to the ID, the output unit 18D transmits a second signal related to the restricted act to the first control unit 17. For example, if the processing unit 18C identifies dangerous act data with ID "001," the output unit 18D transmits a first signal related to the ID "001" to the audio alert unit 30 and also transmits a second signal related to the restricted act "loading and unloading operation" to the first control unit 17. Upon receiving the second signal, the first control unit 17 prohibits loading and unloading operations (excluding lowering of the mast 13) and travel operation.

[0048] Here, when a restricted action is linked to a dangerous action ID, the output timing for outputting the second signal may be further linked to the dangerous action ID. The output timing may be, for example, "simultaneous with the timing for outputting the first signal" or "a predetermined time after the timing for outputting the first signal." The predetermined time may be set appropriately depending on the dangerous action. When the output timing is linked to the dangerous action ID, the output unit 18D outputs the second signal at the linked output timing.

[0049] The audio alert unit 30 includes an audio data storage unit 30A, an audio data playback unit 30B, and a speaker 30C. The audio alert unit 30 issues an audio warning (alert) to the operator of the forklift 10.

[0050] The voice of the present invention includes a linguistic voice that can convey information to an operator. The voice of the present invention does not include a sound effect alone, such as a buzzer sound, but may include a sound effect if it is placed before or after the linguistic voice.

[0051] The voice data storage unit 30A stores a plurality of voice data in which data of a voice for warning (hereinafter, "warning voice data") is linked to an ID. The plurality of voice data includes, for example, the four voice data shown in Table 2 below.

[0052] [Table 2]

[0053] The voice data with ID "001" is obtained by linking the warning voice data "Please step on the brakes. You are about to collide." to the ID "001." The warning voice data with ID "001" corresponds to the "first warning voice data" of the present invention. The warning voice data with ID "001" includes information (words) about the cargo handling driving operation to avoid the dangerous act of "colliding with an obstacle above while driving," which is "Please step on the brakes." This information corresponds to the "second information" and "first obstacle avoidance information" of the present invention. Furthermore, the warning voice data with ID "001" includes information (words) that the operator associates with an obstacle, "You are about to collide." This information corresponds to the "first information" and "first obstacle information" of the present invention.

[0054] The voice data of ID "002" is obtained by linking the warning voice data "Stop lift operation. There is a risk of a collision" to ID "002." The warning voice data of ID "002" corresponds to the "first warning voice data" of the present invention. The warning voice data of ID "002" includes information (words) regarding the cargo handling travel operation to avoid the dangerous act of "colliding with an obstacle above while handling cargo," which is "Stop lift operation." This information corresponds to the "second information" and "first obstacle avoidance information" of the present invention. Furthermore, the warning voice data of ID "002" includes information (words) that the operator associates with an obstacle, "There is a risk of a collision." This information corresponds to the "first information" and "first obstacle information" of the present invention.

[0055] The voice data with ID "003" is obtained by linking the ID "003" with the warning voice data "Please step on the brakes. A person is nearby." The warning voice data with ID "003" corresponds to the "second warning voice data" of the present invention. The warning voice data with ID "003" includes information (words) about the loading and unloading operation to avoid the dangerous act of "collision with a person nearby," such as "Please step on the brakes." This information corresponds to the "second information" and "second obstacle avoidance information" of the present invention. Furthermore, the warning voice data with ID "003" includes information (words) that the operator associates with a person, such as "A person is nearby." This information corresponds to the "first information" and "second obstacle information" of the present invention. Furthermore, the warning voice data with ID "003" includes information (words) that indicate distance (short distance), such as "near," so that the operator can immediately recognize that a person is nearby.

[0056] The voice data of ID "004" is obtained by linking the warning voice data "There is a person there" to ID "004". The warning voice data of ID "004" corresponds to the "second warning voice data" of the present invention. The warning voice data of ID "004" includes information (words) that the operator associates with a person, "There is a person there". This information corresponds to the "first information" and "second obstacle information" of the present invention. Furthermore, the warning voice data of ID "004" does not include information related to the cargo handling travel operation or information indicating the distance, so the operator can clearly distinguish between the warning by the warning voice data of ID "004" and the warning by the warning voice data of ID "003".

[0057] An operator or a system administrator can change the warning audio data stored in the audio data storage unit 30A and can also add new audio data. For example, a memory card capable of rewriting warning audio data can be used as the audio data storage unit 30A. The memory card can be, for example, an SD card or a USB memory. For example, an operator or administrator can generate warning audio data in a file format such as WAV format and store it in the audio data storage unit 30A.

[0058] The audio data reproducing unit 30B acquires the first signal related to the ID output from the output unit 18D, and reproduces the warning audio data of the audio data linked to the ID of the first signal in the audio data storage unit 30A. For example, when the first signal related to the ID "001" is received from the output unit 18D, the audio data reproducing unit 30B reproduces the warning audio data of the audio data of the ID "001" such as "Please apply the brakes. There is an imminent collision." The audio data reproducing unit 30B includes, for example, a voice player module.

[0059] The speaker 30C is connected to the audio data reproducing unit 30B and outputs the audio of the warning audio data being reproduced by the audio data reproducing unit 30B. For example, when the audio data reproducing unit 30B is reproducing the warning audio data with ID "001" "Please step on the brakes. You are about to collide," the speaker 30C outputs the audio "Please step on the brakes. You are about to collide."

[0060] As described above, in the alert system 1A according to this embodiment, the audio alert unit 30 issues an audio warning (alert) to the operator of the forklift 10. This allows the operator to easily determine which dangerous behavior has been detected. For example, the operator can immediately determine which of the dangerous behaviors ID "001" to ID "004" has been detected by listening to the information (words) included in the audio from the audio alert unit 30, and can take appropriate action.

[0061] Furthermore, in the alert system 1A according to this embodiment, the defined dangerous acts are linked to restricted acts of cargo handling travel operations, so even if the operator's response is delayed, the first control unit 17 restricts the cargo handling travel operations based on the restricted acts. Therefore, the alert system 1A according to this embodiment can prevent the defined dangerous acts from actually occurring.

[0062] (Warning audio data activation frequency) In the above example, it is assumed that the frequency of the warning audio data is once, but the frequency of the warning audio data can be changed as appropriate.

[0063] For example, the audio data storage unit 30A may associate an ID with a playback count or playback time. If the playback count is associated, the warning audio data can be played back a specified number of times, and if the playback time is associated, the warning audio data can be played back repeatedly for a specified playback time.

[0064] On the other hand, playing the warning audio data multiple times may make the operator feel uncomfortable. In this case, the storage unit 18B or the audio data storage unit 30A may associate the ID with a danger level. When the danger level exceeds a predetermined threshold level, the audio data playback unit 30B preferably plays the warning audio data multiple times, and the higher the danger level, the more times the data is played. For example, the danger levels may be classified as danger level 1, danger level 2, and danger level 3, and the audio data storage unit 30A may associate the ID with the danger level and the number of times the data is played, such that danger level 1 is played once, danger level 2 is played twice, and danger level 3 is played three times.

[0065] Furthermore, in the storage unit 18B, when the timing of outputting the second signal is linked to the risky behavior ID, the output timing can be set to "a predetermined time after the timing of outputting the first signal." Here, the predetermined time can be set appropriately depending on the risk level.

[0066] If risk levels are classified as risk level 1, risk level 2, and risk level 3 as described above, the predetermined time may be a first predetermined time for risk level 1, a second predetermined time shorter than the first predetermined time for risk level 2, and a third predetermined time shorter than the second predetermined time for risk level 3. The third predetermined time may be zero. For example, the risky behaviors of IDs "001" to "003" may be risk level 3, the risky behavior of ID "004" may be risk level 2, and the risky behavior of "distracted driving" may be risk level 1. If the camera included in the sensor unit detects the risky behavior of "distracted driving," the audio alert unit 30 may issue an audio warning (alert) to the operator. If "distracted driving" is still detected after the first predetermined time has elapsed, the first control unit 17 may execute the restricted behavior of "driving behavior (speed limit or stop)" based on the second signal.

[0067] By changing the output timing of the second signal according to the risk level of the dangerous act as described above, it is possible to minimize the decrease in the work efficiency of the forklift 10, avoid the dangerous act, and ensure safety.

[0068] (Conditions for activating warning audio data) In the above example, warning audio data is played back for defined dangerous actions, but warning audio data can also be played back for actions that do not fall under the category of dangerous actions. However, as in the above example, it is necessary to store the dangerous action data and audio data in advance in the storage unit 18B and the audio data storage unit 30A.

[0069] For example, when notifying the operator of the forklift 10 of an abnormal state such as a breakdown of the equipment of the forklift 10, a voice warning (alert) may be given to the operator. Alternatively, when enabling the operator to check whether the equipment of the forklift 10 is operating normally, a voice warning may be given to the operator. In the latter case, the voice data reproducing unit 30B may reproduce warning voice data such as, for example, "Alert system start."

[0070] (Installation location) In the above example, the audio alert unit 30 is attached to the lower part of the roof of the head guard 16, but the location of the audio alert unit 30 can be changed as appropriate as long as the audio warning can be heard by the operator.

[0071] (light alert) The forklift 10 may include an optical alert unit, such as a rotating light or a stack light, that issues an optical warning (alert). The warning issued by the optical alert unit corresponds to the "first warning" of the present invention. The warning issued by the optical alert unit may be issued when the warning audio data is played back, or may be issued at a timing different from when the warning audio data is played back. However, issuing the warning during playback can emphasize the audio warning. The warning issued by the optical alert unit may be issued regardless of the danger level, or may be issued only when the danger level exceeds a predetermined threshold level.

[0072] [Second embodiment] 3 shows an alert system 1B according to a second embodiment of the present invention. The alert system 1B is obtained by adding a first alert unit 41 and a second alert unit 42 to the alert system 1A of the first embodiment. The first alert unit 41 and the second alert unit 42 correspond to the "sound alert unit" of the present invention.

[0073] The first alert unit 41 is provided near the first sensor unit 21 in the work area and outputs a sound other than voice (a buzzer sound in this embodiment). The warning by the first alert unit 41 corresponds to the "second warning" of the present invention. The first alert unit 41 is configured to work in conjunction with the first sensor unit 21. For example, the first alert unit 41 outputs a buzzer sound when it receives a first detection signal from the first sensor unit 21.

[0074] The second alert unit 42 is provided on the head guard 16 of the forklift 10 and outputs a sound other than voice (a buzzer sound in this embodiment). The warning by the second alert unit 42 corresponds to the "second warning" of the present invention. The second alert unit 42 is configured to work in conjunction with the second sensor unit 22. For example, the second alert unit 42 outputs a buzzer sound when it receives a second detection signal from the second sensor unit 22.

[0075] Meanwhile, the second control unit 18 outputs a first signal to the audio alert unit 30 when a predetermined time has elapsed since receiving the first detection signal and / or the second detection signal. The predetermined time includes at least the time during which the first alert unit 41 and / or the second alert unit 42 is outputting the buzzer sound. This allows the audio alert unit 30 to play warning audio data after the buzzer sound has ended.

[0076] In this embodiment, the second warning is issued by the first alert unit 41 and the second alert unit 42, but for example, the second alert unit 42 may also have the function of the first alert unit 41. In that case, the second alert unit 42 is configured to receive the first detection signal from the first sensor unit 21, and to output a buzzer sound at the timing when the first detection signal is received.

[0077] 4, the alert system 1B may include a server 50 and a management device 60. The server 50 and the management device 60 may also be included in the alert system 1A of the first embodiment.

[0078] The server 50 is communicatively connected to the forklift 10. The server 50 may be, for example, a physical server or a virtual server such as a cloud server. The forklift 10 can upload (save) to the server 50 video data captured and generated by the second sensor unit 22 while the warning audio data is being played back.

[0079] The management device 60 is communicatively connected to the server 50. The management device 60 may be, for example, a personal computer (PC) or a smartphone. The management device 60 can acquire the video data from the server 50. This allows the administrator of the alert system 1B to check the video data on the management device 60 when the warning audio data is being played back.

[0080] [Variations] Although the embodiments of the alert system according to the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments.

[0081] The alert system according to the present invention is an alert system including an industrial vehicle that performs a cargo handling traveling operation in a predetermined working area, a sensor unit that is provided in the working area and / or the industrial vehicle and that detects dangerous acts of the industrial vehicle, and an audio alert unit that is provided in the industrial vehicle and that issues an audio warning to an operator of the industrial vehicle, wherein the industrial vehicle has an operation control unit that controls the cargo handling traveling operation, an input unit to which information signals relating to the detection information of the sensor unit and / or the control information of the operation control unit are input, a memory unit that stores a plurality of dangerous act data that link dangerous acts, judgment conditions for dangerous acts, and unique dangerous act IDs, and the information signals input to the input unit. The audio alert unit includes a processing unit that identifies dangerous activity data based on the information signal, and an output unit that outputs a first signal related to the dangerous activity ID of the dangerous activity data identified by the processing unit.The audio alert unit includes an audio data storage unit that stores multiple audio data linked to the dangerous activity ID and warning audio data, an audio data playback unit that receives the first signal and plays the warning audio data linked to the dangerous activity ID of the first signal, and a speaker that outputs the audio of the warning audio data being played by the audio data playback unit.The configuration can be changed as appropriate as long as the warning audio data includes first information related to the dangerous activity of the linked dangerous activity ID.

[0082] In the above embodiment, the industrial vehicle of the present invention has been described using a counterbalance type forklift as an example, but it may also be a reach type forklift or another type of forklift. Furthermore, the industrial vehicle of the present invention is not limited to a forklift, and may be a vehicle other than a forklift (for example, a transport vehicle) as long as it is equipped with a loading device that can be raised and lowered. [Explanation of symbols]

[0083] 1A, 1B Alert System 10. Forklift 11 Vehicle body 12 Cargo handling equipment 13 Mast 13a Outer Mast 13b Inner mast 14 Backrest 15 Fork 16 Head Guard 17 First Control Section 18 Second Control Section 21 First sensor section 22 Second sensor section 30 Audio alert section 41 First Alert Section 42 Second Alert Section 50 servers 60 Management device

Claims

1. an industrial vehicle that performs a cargo handling traveling operation in a predetermined work area; a sensor unit provided in the work area and / or the industrial vehicle for detecting dangerous behavior of the industrial vehicle; a voice alert unit provided in the industrial vehicle and configured to issue a voice warning to an operator of the industrial vehicle; An alert system comprising: The industrial vehicle is an operation control unit that controls the cargo handling traveling operation; an input unit to which an information signal relating to the detection information of the sensor unit and / or the control information of the operation control unit is input; a storage unit that stores a plurality of risky behavior data in which the risky behavior, a determination condition for the risky behavior, and a unique risky behavior ID are linked; a processing unit that identifies risky behavior data that satisfies the determination condition based on the information signal input to the input unit; an output unit that outputs a first signal related to the risky behavior ID of the risky behavior data identified by the processing unit, The audio alert unit a voice data storage unit that stores a plurality of voice data items each associated with the risky behavior ID and warning voice data; a voice data reproducing unit that receives the first signal and reproduces the warning voice data associated with the risky behavior ID of the first signal; a speaker that outputs the sound of the warning sound data being reproduced by the sound data reproduction unit, The warning audio data includes first information on the dangerous behavior of the associated dangerous behavior ID. An alert system comprising:

2. The storage unit associates the dangerous action ID with the restricted action of the cargo handling traveling operation, the output unit outputs a second signal related to the restricted action linked to the risky action ID to the action control unit; the operation control unit executes the restricted action based on the second signal, The warning audio data includes second information regarding the cargo handling traveling operation for avoiding the dangerous act of the linked dangerous act ID. The alert system of claim 1 .

3. the storage unit associates the risky behavior ID with an output timing for outputting the second signal, the output unit outputs the second signal in accordance with the output timing; The output timing is either simultaneous with the timing of outputting the first signal or after a predetermined time has elapsed since the timing of outputting the first signal.

3. The alert system of claim 2.

4. a light alert unit that issues a first warning to the operator by light; The optical alert unit issues the first warning while the warning audio data is being reproduced. The alert system of claim 1 .

5. a sound alert unit that issues a second warning to the operator using a sound other than voice, The audio data reproducing unit reproduces the warning audio data after the second warning by the sound alert unit has ended.

5. The alert system of claim 4.

6. The voice data storage unit The warning sound data is rewritable in the memory card. The alert system of claim 1 .

7. the storage unit and / or the voice data storage unit associates the risky behavior ID with a risk level of the risky behavior, The audio data reproducing unit reproduces the warning audio data a plurality of times when the danger level exceeds a predetermined threshold level, and the higher the danger level, the more times the data is reproduced. The alert system of claim 1 .

8. a first obstacle is present in the working area at a position equal to or higher than a predetermined height; The sensor unit a first sensor unit provided in the work area and configured to detect when the industrial vehicle reaches the predetermined height; a second sensor unit provided in the industrial vehicle and configured to detect a second obstacle present at a position lower than the predetermined height, The audio data reproducing unit When the first sensor unit detects the industrial vehicle, first warning audio data is reproduced, which is the warning audio data; When the second sensor unit detects the second obstacle, second warning sound data is reproduced, which is the warning sound data; the first warning audio data includes first obstacle information regarding a collision with the first obstacle, The second warning audio data includes second obstacle information regarding the second obstacle. The alert system of claim 1 .

9. the first warning voice data includes first obstacle avoidance information related to the cargo handling traveling operation for avoiding a collision with the first obstacle, The second warning audio data includes second obstacle avoidance information regarding the cargo handling traveling operation for avoiding a collision with the second obstacle.

9. The alert system of claim 8.

10. a server communicably connected to the industrial vehicle; a management device communicatively connected to the server; The industrial vehicle is a photographing unit that photographs the surroundings to generate video data and uploads the video data to the server at least while the warning audio data is being played back; The management device The video data can be acquired from the server The alert system of claim 1 .

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