Loading platform lifting device

Abstract

The present invention provides a loading platform lifting device that can move the loading platform from one of the upper and lower regions of the floor position to the other region of the floor position or to the floor position, while suppressing the complexity of the device. [Solution] The system comprises a loading platform, a lifting device for raising and lowering the loading platform, an operating unit for operating the lifting device, and a control unit for controlling the lifting device. The lifting device can raise and lower the loading platform between a lower region below the floor level of the loading platform and an upper region above the floor level. The control unit determines whether the operation performed by the operating unit is a first lifting operation to raise the loading platform, or a second lifting operation which is a different operation to raise the loading platform. If it determines that a first lifting operation has been performed, it controls the loading platform to be raised from the lower region to the floor level. If it determines that a second lifting operation has been performed, it controls the loading platform to be raised from the lower region to the upper region.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a loading platform lifting device provided on a vehicle.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, as a loading platform lifting device, the loading platform lifting device described in Patent Document 1 is known. The loading platform lifting device includes a loading platform, a post that serves as a guide for the loading platform to move in the vertical direction, a hydraulic cylinder that performs lifting drive to move the loading platform in the vertical direction, a first operation device and a second operation device for inputting an operation to lift and lower the loading platform, and a control device. When the first operation device is operated, the control device controls the loading platform to move up and down in the lower region with respect to the loading platform of the vehicle, and when the second operation device is operated, the control device controls the loading platform to move up and down in the upper region with respect to the loading platform of the vehicle. Further, when the operation of the first operation device is performed and the loading platform reaches the floor surface position of the loading platform of the vehicle, the control unit stops the upward operation of the loading platform.

[0003] According to the loading platform lifting device having the above configuration, when moving the loading platform from the lower region to the upper region across the floor surface position, it is said that the loading platform can be moved to the upper region by operating the second operation device.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] In the loading platform lifting device described in Patent Document 1, in order to move the loading platform to both the upper region and the lower region of the floor surface position, it is necessary to provide two operation devices, the first operation device and the second operation device. Therefore, the configuration becomes complicated, which has been a factor in increasing the cost.

[0006] Therefore, the present invention aims to provide a loading platform lifting device that can move the loading platform from one of the upper and lower regions of the floor position to the other of the upper and lower regions of the floor position or to the floor position, while suppressing the complexity of the device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The present invention provides a loading platform lifting device comprising: a loading platform for loading or unloading cargo onto or from the loading platform of a vehicle; a lifting device for raising and lowering the loading platform; an operating unit for operating the lifting device; and a control unit for controlling the lifting device. The lifting device is capable of raising and lowering the loading platform between a lower region below the floor level of the loading platform and an upper region above the floor level. The control unit determines whether the operation performed by the operating unit is a first lifting operation for raising the loading platform, or a second lifting operation which is a different operation for raising the loading platform from the first lifting operation. If it determines that the first lifting operation has been performed, the control unit controls the loading platform to be raised from the lower region to the floor level. If it determines that the second lifting operation has been performed, the control unit controls the loading platform to be raised from the lower region to the upper region.

[0008] With this configuration, the control unit determines the type of operation performed on the control unit and raises the loading platform from the lower area to the floor level or upper area. This allows the loading platform to be moved from the lower area to the floor level or upper area while suppressing the complexity of the operating device.

[0009] Furthermore, the operation unit may also be configured to include a lifting operation input unit that allows for multiple inputs in a single operation, and to determine, based on the number of inputs to the lifting operation input unit, whether the operation performed on the operation unit is the first lifting operation for raising the loading platform, or the second lifting operation which is a different operation for raising the loading platform from the first lifting operation.

[0010] With this configuration, the control unit can determine the type of operation performed on the operation unit based on the number of times input is made to the lifting operation input unit, and raise the load-receiving platform from a lower position to the floor level or an upper area.

[0011] Furthermore, the operation unit may also be configured to include a lifting operation input unit that can receive continuous input for a predetermined time in a single operation, and to determine whether the operation performed on the operation unit is the first lifting operation for raising the loading platform, or the second lifting operation which is a different operation for raising the loading platform from the first lifting operation, based on the length of time that is continuously input to the lifting operation input unit.

[0012] With this configuration, the control unit can determine the type of operation performed on the operation unit based on the length of time input to the lifting operation input unit, and raise the load-receiving platform from a lower position to the floor level or an upper area.

[0013] Furthermore, the operation unit may be configured to include an upward operation input unit for primarily raising the loading platform and a downward operation input unit for primarily lowering the loading platform, and the control unit may be configured to determine, based on a combination of the input made to the upward operation input unit and the input made to the downward operation input unit superimposed on the upward operation input unit, whether the operation made to the operation unit is the first upward operation for raising the loading platform or the second upward operation, which is a different operation for raising the loading platform from the first upward operation.

[0014] With this configuration, based on the inputs made to the lifting operation input unit and the lowering operation input unit, the control unit can determine the type of operation made to the operation unit and raise the loading platform from a lower position to the floor level or an upper area.

[0015] Furthermore, the loading platform lifting device of the present invention comprises a loading platform for loading or unloading cargo onto or from the loading platform of a vehicle, a lifting device for raising and lowering the loading platform, an operating unit for operating the lifting device, and a control unit for controlling the lifting device. The lifting device can raise and lower the loading platform between a lower region below the floor level of the loading platform and an upper region above the floor level. The control unit determines whether the operation performed by the operating unit is a first lowering operation for lowering the loading platform, or a second lowering operation which is a different operation for lowering the loading platform from the first lowering operation. If it determines that the first lowering operation has been performed, it controls the loading platform to be lowered from the upper region to the floor level. If it determines that the second lowering operation has been performed, it controls the loading platform to be lowered from the upper region to the lower region.

[0016] With this configuration, the control unit determines the type of operation performed on the control unit and raises the loading platform from the upper area to the floor level or lower area. This allows the loading platform to be moved from the upper area to the floor level or lower area while suppressing the complexity of the operating device. [Effects of the Invention]

[0017] According to the present invention, a loading platform lifting device can be obtained that can move the loading platform from one of the upper and lower regions of the floor position to the other of the upper and lower regions of the floor position or to the floor position, while suppressing the complexity of the device. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0018] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view showing a loading platform lifting device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a perspective view showing the loading platform of the loading platform lifting device in its lower end position. [Figure 3] This is a block diagram showing the configuration of the loading platform lifting device. [Figure 4] A perspective view showing the stored state of the loading platform lifting device. [Figure 5]It is a diagram showing the raising and lowering of the load receiving platform lifting device. [Figure 6] It is a diagram showing the raising and lowering of the load receiving platform lifting device in another embodiment.

Embodiment for Carrying out the Invention

[0019] The load receiving platform lifting device 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5. For the sake of explanation, the up-and-down direction, left-and-right direction, and front-and-back direction will be described based on the directions shown in FIG. 1. Also, the inside-outside direction will be described based on the inside-outside direction with respect to the loading platform of the vehicle.

[0020] First, an overview of the vehicle 7 on which the load receiving platform lifting device 1 is provided will be described with reference to FIG. 1. The vehicle 7 includes a box-shaped cab (not shown) for an operator including the driver of the vehicle 7, and a loading platform �1 disposed behind the cab for loading luggage. The loading platform �1 is positioned at a distance above the ground and has a floor surface 72 that extends in the front-and-back direction and the left-and-right direction, and luggage can be placed on the floor surface 72. Further, the loading platform �1 includes a plate-shaped awning portion 73 that rises upward from the outer edge of the floor surface 72. The awning portion 73 is connected to the floor surface 72 via a hinge and is rotatable about an axis extending along the outer edge of the floor surface 72. When the awning portion 73 rises with respect to the floor surface 72, the outer edge portion of the loading platform �1 is in a closed state, and when the awning portion 73 falls downward with respect to the floor surface 72, the outer edge portion of the loading platform �1 is in an open state.

[0021] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the load receiving platform lifting device 1 includes a load receiving platform 2 for loading luggage, a lifting device 3 for raising and lowering the load receiving platform 2, a retracting device 4 for retracting and extending the lifting device 3 in and out with respect to the floor surface 72, an operating means 5 for operating the lifting device 3 and the retracting device 4, and a control unit 6. The load receiving platform lifting device 1 of the present embodiment is fixed to the rear end portion of the floor surface 72 of the loading platform �1 and is configured to raise and lower the luggage placed on the load receiving platform 2 behind the loading platform �1.

[0022] The loading platform 2 comprises a plate-shaped loading body 21 whose base end is connected to the lifting device 3, and a plate-shaped loading tip 22 connected to the tip of the loading body 21. In its unfolded state, the loading platform 2 is plate-shaped as a whole, extending in the front-rear and left-right directions, with the loading body 21 and loading tip 22 aligned so that the upper surface is continuous in the front-rear direction, and the upper surface is configured as a loading surface 2a for placing cargo. In this embodiment, in the unfolded state, the base end of the loading platform 2 is located at the front and the tip is located at the rear. The loading surface 2a is a substantially flat surface. Therefore, for example, when placing a drum, it is easy to roll the drum on the loading platform 2.

[0023] The load-receiving body 21 is a plate-shaped body whose base end is connected to the lifting device 3 so that it can rotate around an axis that extends in the left-right direction. The load-receiving body 21 can rotate around the axis so that it can change its orientation from a state in which the tip is located behind the base end and the mounting surface 2a is located above, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, to a stored state in which the tip is located above the base end and the entire load-receiving body 21 extends along the lifting device 3 (specifically, along the extension direction of the outer column 31 and the inner column 32), as shown in Figure 4.

[0024] The load-receiving tip 22 is a plate-like body connected to the load-receiving body 21 so as to be rotatable around an axis extending in the left-right direction. The load-receiving tip 22 can rotate around the axis and change its orientation from extending from the tip end to the tip side of the load-receiving body 21, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, to extending from the tip end to the base end of the load-receiving body 21 and overlapping the load-receiving body 21 in the thickness direction, as shown in Figure 4.

[0025] As shown in Figure 2, the lifting device 3 comprises a cylindrical outer column 31 extending in the vertical direction, a columnar inner column 32 housed inside the outer column 31, a slider 33 connected to the inner column 32, and a drive unit 34. In this embodiment, the lifting device 3 is provided with a pair of outer columns 31, inner columns 32, and sliders 33 spaced apart in the left-right direction, with the drive unit 34 positioned between the pair of outer columns 31, inner columns 32, and sliders 33. The base end of the loading platform 2 is connected to the pair of sliders 33. Furthermore, the lifting device 3 is provided with a position sensor 35 for detecting the position of the loading platform 2.

[0026] The outer column 31 is a cylindrical body with a closed upper end and an open lower end, and has a slit 31a that extends continuously in the vertical direction on its rear surface. The slit 31a is formed to extend from the lower end to the upper end.

[0027] The inner column 32 is a cylindrical body that can move vertically along the outer column 31, and specifically, it can slide vertically inside the outer column 31. Furthermore, the inner column 32 is configured to move below the lower end of the outer column 31, and specifically, it can extend from the lower end of the outer column 31 down to the ground. In addition, the inner column 32 has a groove 32a formed on its rear surface that extends vertically and is concave at the rear. The groove 32a is formed to overlap with the slit 31a of the outer column 31 in the front-rear direction, and is also formed to be continuous with the slit 31a of the outer column 31 in the vertical direction when the inner column 32 is lowered.

[0028] The slider 33 is a columnar body that fits into the groove 32a of the inner column 32 and is movable up and down along the inner column 32. Specifically, the slider 33 is movable in the vertical direction along the groove 32a of the inner column 32 and the slit 31a of the outer column 31, and is configured so that its rear surface is exposed to the rear side from the slit 31a of the outer column 31. A loading platform 2 is connected to the lower end of the slider 33.

[0029] The drive unit 34 drives the slider 33 to move vertically relative to the outer column 31. Specifically, the drive unit 34 receives power such as hydraulics or electricity from the vehicle 7 and drives the inner column 32 and slider 33 to move vertically. When the inner column 32 can be raised and lowered, the drive unit 34 raises and lowers the inner column 32 and slider 33 together. When the inner column 32 is in contact with the upper end of the outer column 31 or the ground and cannot be raised or lowered, the drive unit 34 moves the slider 33 along the groove 32a of the inner column 32. Specifically, when lowering the loading platform 2 downwards, the drive unit 34 first moves the inner column 32 and loading platform 2 downwards together until the inner column 32 contacts the ground, and after the inner column 32 contacts the ground, it moves the loading platform 2 downwards along the groove 32a of the inner column 32. Furthermore, when raising the loading platform 2 upward, the drive unit 34 moves the inner column 32 and the loading platform 2 together upward until they contact the upper end of the outer column 31, and after the inner column 32 contacts the upper end of the outer column 31, it moves the loading platform 2 upward along the groove 32a of the inner column 32. The drive unit 34 also drives the loading platform 2 up and down based on the control of the control unit 6. In this embodiment, the drive unit 34 raises and lowers the inner column 32 and the slider 33 via a wire.

[0030] As shown in Figure 5, the lifting device 3 can raise and lower the loading platform 2 within a range from ground level to above the height of the floor surface 72 of the loading platform 71. Specifically, the lifting device 3 can move the loading platform 2 from the lower end position PD (see dashed line), where the inner column 32 is in contact with the ground and the slider 33 has moved to the lower end of the inner column 32, to the upper end position PU (see dashed line), where the inner column 32 is in contact with the upper end of the outer column 31 and the slider 33 has moved to the upper end of the inner column 32. At this time, at the lower end position PD, the loading platform 2 is in contact with the ground. At the upper end position PU, the loading platform 2 is positioned above the height of the floor surface 72 of the loading platform 71. An example of moving the loading platform 2 to the upper region U is when moving cargo between the loading platform 71 of another vehicle 7 or another structure with a higher floor surface position PF.

[0031] The position sensor 35 is a sensor for detecting that the loading platform 2 is at floor level PF, that is, at the height of the floor 72 of the loading platform 71. The position sensor 35 is a proximity sensor that can detect, for example, when the loading platform 2 approaches the height of the floor 72 without contact, but is not limited to this. It can also be configured as a physical sensor provided on the inner column 32 or outer column 31 to detect when the loading platform 2 or slider 33 comes into contact with it, or a rotation sensor or the like can be used to calculate the position of the loading platform 2 based on the amount of drive of the drive unit 34.

[0032] As shown in Figures 1, 2, and 4, the retraction device 4 comprises a cargo bed fixing part 41 fixed to the cargo bed 71, a rotating arm part 42 whose base end is fixed to the cargo bed fixing part 41 and whose tip end is fixed to the outer column 31, and a drive cylinder (not shown). The retraction device 4 is provided with a pair of cargo bed fixing parts 41 and rotating arm parts 42 spaced apart in the left-right direction, corresponding to the outer column 31.

[0033] The cargo bed fixing section 41 comprises a plate-shaped fixing plate section 43 fixed to the floor surface 72, and a rising section 44 that rises upward from the fixing plate section 43. The fixing plate section 43 is positioned on the floor surface 72 and fixed to the floor surface 72 with bolts and nuts. The rising section 44 is plate-shaped and extends in the vertical direction, and the base end of the rotating arm section 42 and the base end of the drive cylinder are connected to it. The rising section 44 has an arm connecting hole into which the base end shaft section 45, located at the base end of the rotating arm section 42, is connected in a rotatable manner.

[0034] The rotating arm portion 42 is rod-shaped and has a base end and a tip end. The rotating arm portion 42 includes a base end shaft portion 45 provided at the base end and connected to the cargo bed fixing portion 41, and a tip end shaft portion 46 provided at the tip end and connected to the outer column 31. The tip of a drive cylinder is connected to the rotating arm portion 42 between the base end shaft portion 45 and the tip end shaft portion 46. The rotating arm portion 42 is rotatable relative to the cargo bed fixing portion 41 and the outer column 31 via the base end shaft portion 45 and the tip end shaft portion 46.

[0035] The drive cylinder is configured to be extendable and retractable by receiving power from the vehicle 7. The drive cylinder is, for example, a cylinder that is driven by receiving electricity from the vehicle 7. In this embodiment, the drive cylinder has its base end fixed to the cargo bed fixing part 41 and its tip end fixed to the tip shaft part 46, and is configured so that the length from the base end to the tip end changes by extending and retracting.

[0036] In this type of extension / retraction device 4, the drive cylinder extends and retracts, causing the rotating arm 42 to rotate around its base end, and the tip of the rotating arm 42 to move around the base end shaft 45. The rotation of the rotating arm 42 causes the tip of the rotating arm 42 to move in the front-rear and up-down directions. Specifically, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the rotating arm 42 can move from an extended position where the tip is below the base end, to a retracted position where the tip is above the base end and behind the extended position, as shown in Figure 4. In addition, as the rotating arm rotates, the entire lifting device 3 connected to the rotating arm moves in the front-rear direction, and the lifting device 3 can move between a retracted position where the entire device is retracted in front of the rear end of the floor surface 72 and an extended position where the entire device is extended behind the rear end of the floor surface 72. When the lifting device 3 moves from the retracted position to the extended position, it moves not only in the front-rear direction but also in the up-down direction.

[0037] As shown in Figure 3, the operating means 5 includes an operating unit 51 for operating the lifting device 3, an exit operation unit 52 for operating the exit device 4, and an operation switching unit 53 for switching whether or not the operating unit 51 and the exit operation unit 52 can be operated. In this embodiment, the operating means 5 is located near the exit device 4 or the lifting device 3.

[0038] The operation unit 51 mainly comprises an upward operation input unit 511 for inputting an input to raise the loading platform 2 to the lifting device 3, and a downward operation input unit 512 for inputting an input to lower the loading platform 2 to the lifting device 3. The upward operation input unit 511 and the downward operation input unit 512 are each independent push buttons, and are configured to transmit a signal corresponding to the duration (time) they are pressed to the control unit 6. As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the operation unit 51 in this embodiment is a button located on the outer surface of the outer column 31, with the upward operation input unit 511 and the downward operation input unit 512 arranged vertically. The upward operation input unit 511 and the downward operation input unit 512 are buttons that continuously emit a signal while they are pressed, and are configured to continuously emit a signal without interruption while they are pressed for a long time, for example.

[0039] The exit / retreat operation unit 52 is a switch for inputting an input to move the exit / retreat device 4 in the direction of advancing or retracting. In this embodiment, the exit / retreat operation unit 52 is a toggle switch. In the neutral position, it does not emit a signal. When tilted to one side from the neutral position, it emits a signal to move the exit / retreat device 4 in the direction of advancing, and when tilted to the other side from the neutral position, it emits a signal to move the exit / retreat device 4 in the direction of retracting. The exit / retreat operation unit 52 is also biased to return to the neutral position from the tilted state to one side or the other side. The exit / retreat operation unit 52 is located at a distance from the operation unit 51, and in this embodiment, it is located next to the exit / retreat device 4.

[0040] The operation switching unit 53 is a switch for switching whether or not the operation unit 51 and the exit / entry operation unit 52 can be operated. In this embodiment, the operation switching unit 53 includes a lifting / lowering switching unit 531 for switching whether or not the operation unit 51 can be operated, and an exit / entry switching unit 532 for switching whether or not the operation unit 52 can be operated. The lifting / lowering switching unit 531 emits a signal to operate the lifting / lowering device 3 when it is ON, and does not emit the signal when it is OFF. Similarly, the exit / entry switching unit 532 emits a signal to operate the exit / entry device 4 when it is ON, and does not emit the signal when it is OFF. In this embodiment, the operation switching unit 53 is a toggle switch in which the lifting / lowering switching unit 531 and the exit / entry switching unit 532 are integrated, and is configured to emit no signal in the neutral position, emit a signal to operate the exit / entry device 4 when it is tilted to one side from the neutral position, and emit a signal to operate the lifting / lowering device 3 when it is tilted to the other side from the neutral position. In other words, the operation switching unit 53 is configured so that the lifting / lowering switching unit 531 and the exit / return switching unit 532 are not turned ON at the same time. Furthermore, the exit / return operation unit 52 is configured to maintain a neutral position and a position tilted to one side or the other side when not subjected to external force. The operation switching unit 53 is located at a distance from the operation unit 51, and in this embodiment, it is located adjacent to the exit / return operation unit 52.

[0041] The control unit 6 controls the operation of the exit device 4 and the lifting device 3 based on the input received by the operation means 5. In this embodiment, the control unit 6 controls the operation of the exit device 4 when an input is received at the exit operation unit 52 while the operation switching unit 53 is emitting a signal to operate the exit device 4, and controls the operation of the lifting device 3 when an input is received at the operation unit 51 while the operation switching unit 53 is emitting a signal to operate the lifting device 3.

[0042] First, let's explain the control for driving the exit / return device 4. When the exit / return switching unit 532 is emitting a signal to operate the exit / return device 4, and the exit / return operation unit 52 is emitting a signal to move the exit / return device 4 in the direction of advancement, the control unit 6 controls the drive cylinder to move the rotating arm downward and to the rear, thereby advancing the lifting device 3 connected to the rotating arm to the rear. Also, when the exit / return switching unit 532 is emitting a signal to operate the exit / return device 4, and the exit / return operation unit 52 is emitting a signal to move the exit / return device 4 in the direction of retraction, the control unit 6 controls the drive cylinder to move the rotating arm upward and to the front, thereby retracting the lifting device 3 connected to the rotating arm to the front. The control unit 6 controls the exit / return device 4 to operate only while the exit / return switching unit 532 is emitting a signal, and stops the operation of the exit / return device 4 when the exit / return switching unit 532 returns to the neutral position and the signal stops.

[0043] Next, the control for driving the lifting device 3 will be explained with reference to Figure 5. First, the control for raising the loading platform 2 will be explained. The control unit 6 performs a first lift control and a second lift control as controls for raising the loading platform 2. The first lift control is a control that raises the loading platform 2 from the lower region D, which is below the floor position PF such as the lower end position PD, to the floor position PF (see the solid lines in Figures 1 and 5), and stops the rise of the loading platform 2 at the floor position PF. The second lift control is a control that raises the loading platform 2 above the floor position PF, and does not stop the rise of the loading platform 2 at the floor position PF, but raises it above the floor position PF. In other words, the first lift control is a control that does not allow the loading platform 2 to move up or down in the upper region U above the floor position PF, and the second lift control is a control that allows the loading platform 2 to move in the upper region U. Furthermore, the control unit 6 raises the loading platform 2 only while it is receiving a signal from the lifting operation input unit 511. That is, the control unit 6 drives the lifting device 3 to rise only while the lifting operation input unit 511 is pressed. The lower area D is the normal area used for moving cargo between the floor and the ground, and the upper area is the emergency area used for moving cargo between the floor and other vehicles or structures.

[0044] The control unit 6 determines whether to perform a first lifting control or a second lifting control based on the input to the operation unit 51, and performs either the first lifting control or the second lifting control based on the determination. Specifically, the control unit 6 determines, based on the signal from the operation unit 51, whether the input to the operation unit 51 is a first lifting operation to raise the loading platform 2, or a second lifting operation which is a different operation to raise the loading platform 2 from the first lifting operation. For example, the first lifting operation is an operation in which the lifting operation input unit 511 is pressed and held down once, and the second lifting operation is an operation in which the lifting operation input unit 511 is pressed multiple times within a predetermined time, twice in this embodiment, and then held down.

[0045] In the first upward control, the loading platform 2 is raised in the lower region D while the upward operation input unit 511 is pressed. Specifically, in the first upward control, the loading platform 2 is raised until the position sensor 35 of the lifting device 3 detects that the loading platform 2 is at floor level PF. Once the position sensor 35 of the lifting device 3 detects that the loading platform 2 is at floor level PF, the upward movement of the loading platform 2 is stopped. Furthermore, in the first upward control, even if a new first upward operation is performed while the position sensor 35 of the lifting device 3 has detected that the loading platform 2 is at floor level PF, the loading platform 2 is not raised.

[0046] In the second lifting control, while the lifting operation input unit 511 is pressed, the loading platform 2 is raised in the lower region D or in the upper region U above the floor position PF. Specifically, in the second lifting control, the inner column 32 rises and contacts the upper end of the outer column 31, and the slider 33 reaches the upper end of the groove 32a of the inner column 32, thereby controlling the raising of the inner column 32 and slider 33 until the loading platform 2 reaches the upper end position PU. When the loading platform 2 reaches the upper end position PU, the raising of the loading platform 2 is stopped. In other words, in the second lifting control, when raising the loading platform 2 from the lower region D, even if the position sensor 35 detects that the loading platform 2 has reached the floor position PF, the raising is not stopped at the floor position PF, and the raising of the loading platform 2 is continued. To put it another way, the second lifting control is a control that raises the loading platform 2 by disabling the function that stops the raising when the position sensor 35 detects that the loading platform 2 has reached the floor position PF.

[0047] As described above, in the first and second lifting controls, the amount of lifting of the loading platform 2 can be input by pressing and holding the lifting operation input unit 511. Prior to the long-press operation to determine the lifting amount, an operation is performed in which the lifting operation input unit 511 is pressed multiple times within a predetermined time to identify whether it is the first or second lifting operation. The input for identifying whether it is the first or second lifting operation is not limited to the above example; as long as the input for identifying the second lifting operation is different from the input for the first lifting operation, it is acceptable.

[0048] Furthermore, when the first lifting operation is performed while the loading platform 2 is located above the floor position PF and below the upper end position PU, the loading platform 2 is raised in the upper region U. In other words, after the loading platform 2 has moved above the floor position PF once by the second lifting operation, it can be raised in the upper region U by the first lifting operation until the loading platform 2 moves to or below the floor position PF. Thus, the second lifting operation is an operation to move the loading platform 2 from the lower region D to the upper region U.

[0049] Next, the control for lowering the loading platform 2 will be described. The control unit 6 performs a first lowering control and a second lowering control as controls for lowering the loading platform 2. The first lowering control is a control that lowers the loading platform 2 from the upper region U to the floor position PF, and stops the lowering of the loading platform 2 at the floor position PF. The second lowering control is a control that lowers the loading platform 2 from the upper region U to below the floor position PF, and does not stop the lowering of the loading platform 2 at the floor position PF, but lowers it to below the floor position PF. In other words, the first lowering control is a control that does not allow the loading platform 2 to move in the lower region D below the floor position PF, while the second lowering control is a control that allows the loading platform 2 to move in the lower region D. Furthermore, the control unit 6 lowers the loading platform 2 only while it is receiving a signal from the lowering operation input unit 512. In other words, the control unit 6 drives the lifting device 3 for lowering only while the lowering operation input unit 512 is pressed.

[0050] The control unit 6 determines whether to perform a first descent control or a second descent control based on the input received by the operation unit 51, and performs either the first or second descent control based on the determination. Specifically, the control unit 6 determines, based on the signal from the operation unit 51, whether the input received by the operation unit 51 is a first descent operation to lower the loading platform 2, or a second descent operation which is a different operation to lower the loading platform 2 from the first descent operation. For example, the first descent operation is an operation in which the descent operation input unit 512 is pressed and held down once, and the second descent operation is an operation in which the descent operation input unit 512 is pressed multiple times within a predetermined time, in this embodiment twice, and then held down.

[0051] In the first descent control, the loading platform 2 is lowered in the upper region U while the descent operation input unit 512 is pressed. Specifically, in the first descent control, the loading platform 2 is lowered until the position sensor 35 of the lifting device 3 detects that the loading platform 2 is at floor level PF. Once the position sensor 35 of the lifting device 3 detects that the loading platform 2 is at floor level PF, the descent of the loading platform 2 is stopped.

[0052] In the second descent control, while the descent operation input unit 512 is pressed, the loading platform 2 is lowered in the upper region U or in the lower region D above the floor position PF. Specifically, in the second descent control, the inner column 32 is lowered until it contacts the ground, and the slider 33 reaches the lower end of the groove 32a of the inner column 32. This controls the lowering of the inner column 32 and the slider 33 until the loading platform 2 reaches the lower end position PD. When the loading platform 2 reaches the lower end position PD, the descent of the loading platform 2 is stopped. In other words, in the second descent control, when lowering the loading platform 2 from the upper region U, even if the position sensor 35 detects that the loading platform 2 has reached the floor position PF, the descent is not stopped at the floor position PF, and the descent of the loading platform 2 is continued. In other words, the second lowering control is a control that lowers the loading platform 2 by disabling the function that stops the lowering when the position sensor 35 detects that the loading platform 2 has reached the floor position PF.

[0053] Furthermore, when the loading platform 2 is located at or below floor level PF and above lower end level PD, the first lowering operation is performed, causing the loading platform 2 to be lowered in the lower region D. In other words, after the loading platform 2 has moved to or below floor level PF by the second lowering operation, it can be lowered in the lower region D by the first lowering operation until the loading platform 2 moves above floor level PF. Thus, the second lowering operation is an operation to move the loading platform 2 from the upper region U to floor level PF or the lower region D.

[0054] With the loading platform lifting device 1 configured as described above, the control unit 6 determines the type of operation performed by the operation unit 51 and raises the loading platform 2 from the lower region D to the floor level PF or the upper region U. This allows the loading platform 2 to be moved from the lower region D to the floor level PF or the upper region U while suppressing the complexity of the operating device.

[0055] Furthermore, based on the number of times input to the lifting operation input unit 511, the control unit 6 can determine the type of operation performed on the operation unit 51 and raise the load receiving platform 2 from the lower position to the floor position PF or the upper area U.

[0056] Furthermore, based on the number of times input to the lowering operation input unit 512, the control unit 6 can determine the type of operation performed on the operation unit 51 and raise the load receiving platform 2 from the upper position to the floor position PF or the lower area D.

[0057] Furthermore, the first and second lifting operations can be performed solely by operating the lifting operation input unit 511, and the first and second lowering operations can be performed solely by operating the lowering input unit, thus preventing the load receiving platform 2 from moving in the opposite direction to the intended direction.

[0058] Furthermore, when the loading platform 2 is located at floor level PF, even if the first upward operation is performed, the loading platform 2 cannot be moved to the upper area U, whereas if the first downward operation is performed, the loading platform 2 can be moved to the lower area D, making it easier to move the loading platform 2 below floor level PF.

[0059] Next, other embodiments of the present invention will be described. In these other embodiments, the first and second upward operations, and the first and second downward operations, differ from those of the above embodiments.

[0060] In the second embodiment, the first and second lifting operations are performed by continuously inputting to the lifting operation input unit 511 for a predetermined time. Specifically, the first lifting operation is performed by pressing and holding the lifting operation input unit 511 while the loading platform 2 is in the lower region D. While it is pressed, the control unit 6 performs the first lifting control, raising the loading platform 2 to the floor level PF. The first lifting control stops the lifting of the loading platform 2 when the position sensor 35 detects that the loading platform 2 is in the floor level PF.

[0061] The second lifting operation is an operation in which the lifting operation input unit 511 is pressed continuously for a longer period of time than the first lifting operation. In this embodiment, the second lifting operation is an operation in which the lifting operation input unit 511 is pressed continuously for a longer period of time than the time required to raise the loading platform 2 from the lower end position PD to the floor position PF in the first lifting control. In the case of the above operation, the control unit 6 determines that the first lifting operation has been performed until the second lifting operation is performed, and raises the loading platform 2 to the height of the floor 72 and stops the lifting of the loading platform 2. If the lifting operation input unit 511 is pressed continuously thereafter, the control unit 6 transitions to the second lifting control and moves the loading platform 2 further above the floor position PF.

[0062] In the second embodiment, the first and second lowering operations are performed by continuously inputting to the lowering operation input unit 512 for a predetermined time. Specifically, the first lowering operation is performed by pressing and holding the lowering operation input unit 512 while the loading platform 2 is in the upper region U. While it is pressed, the control unit 6 performs the first lowering control, lowering the loading platform 2 to the floor level PF. The first lowering control stops the lowering of the loading platform 2 when the position sensor 35 detects that the loading platform 2 is in the floor level PF.

[0063] The second lowering operation is an operation in which the lowering operation input unit 512 is pressed continuously for a longer period of time than the first lowering operation. In this embodiment, the second lowering operation is an operation in which the lowering operation input unit 512 is pressed continuously for a longer period of time than the time required to lower the loading platform 2 from the upper end position PU to the floor position PF in the first lowering control. In the case of the above operation, the control unit 6 determines that the first lowering operation has been performed until the second lowering operation is performed, and lowers the loading platform 2 to the height of the floor 72 and stops the lowering of the loading platform 2. If the lowering operation input unit 512 is pressed continuously thereafter, the control unit 6 transitions to the second lowering control and moves the loading platform 2 further below the floor position PF.

[0064] With this configuration, the control unit 6 can determine the type of operation performed by the operation unit 51 based on the length of time input to the lifting operation input unit 511, and raise the load receiving platform 2 from the lower position to the floor position PF or the upper area U.

[0065] Furthermore, since the second lifting operation is an operation in which the lifting operation input unit 511 is continuously input for a longer period of time than the time it takes for the loading platform 2 to reach the floor position PF from the lower end position PD, it is possible to suppress unintentional execution of the second lifting operation when attempting to move the loading platform 2 in the lower region D.

[0066] Furthermore, since the second lowering operation is an operation in which the lowering operation input unit 512 is continuously input for a longer period of time than the time it takes for the loading platform 2 to reach the floor position PF from the upper end position PU, it is possible to suppress the unintentional execution of the second lowering operation when attempting to move the loading platform 2 in the upper region U.

[0067] Furthermore, until input is continuously received in the control unit 51 for a predetermined period of time or longer, the first upward control or first downward control is performed. When continuous input is received in the control unit 51 for a predetermined period of time or longer, the system switches to the second upward control or second downward control. Therefore, the loading platform 2 can be moved even before the second upward control or second downward control is performed. Thus, even with a configuration that switches control based on the length of input to the control unit 51, the time required to raise or lower the loading platform 2 can be shortened.

[0068] Next, a third embodiment will be described.

[0069] In the third embodiment, the first lifting operation is performed by inputting only to the lifting operation input unit 511. Specifically, the first lifting operation is performed by pressing and holding only the lifting operation input unit 511 while the loading platform 2 is in the lower region D. While it is pressed, the control unit 6 performs the first lifting control, raising the loading platform 2 from the lower region D to the floor level PF. The first lifting control stops the lifting of the loading platform 2 when the position sensor 35 detects that the loading platform 2 is in the floor level PF.

[0070] The second upward operation is performed by pressing the downward operation input unit 512 while the upward operation input unit 511 is pressed. In the case of the above operation, the control unit 6 determines that the first upward operation is being performed until the second upward operation is performed, and raises the loading platform 2, stopping the raising of the loading platform 2 when it reaches the height of the floor surface 72. If the downward operation input unit 512 is pressed while the upward operation input unit 511 is still pressed, the control unit transitions to the second upward control, and while the upward operation input unit 511 is pressed, the loading platform 2 is raised and moved above the floor surface position PF. In other words, in this embodiment, by inputting to the downward operation input unit 512 while inputting to the upward operation input unit 511, the function that stops the raising of the loading platform 2 when the position sensor 35 detects that the loading platform 2 has reached the floor surface position PF is stopped.

[0071] Thus, in the third embodiment, the lowering operation input unit 512 is pressed not only to lower the loading platform 2, which is its primary function, but also to distinguish between the first and second raising operations. In addition to the lowering operation input unit 512, the input device of the operation unit 51, which is not originally used for raising operations, can also be used to distinguish between the first and second raising operations. Furthermore, even when the lowering operation input unit 512 is used to distinguish between the first and second raising operations, the specific operation is not limited to the above example. For example, if the lowering operation input unit 512 is pressed once, and then the raising operation input unit 511 is pressed within a predetermined time (for example, within 1 second), it can be determined that the second raising operation has been performed. Conversely, if the lowering operation input unit 512 is not pressed before the predetermined time before the raising operation input unit 511 is pressed, it can be determined that the first raising operation has been performed.

[0072] In the third embodiment, the first lowering operation is performed by inputting only to the lowering operation input unit 512. Specifically, the first lowering operation is performed by pressing and holding only the lowering operation input unit 512 while the loading platform 2 is in the lower region D. While it is pressed, the control unit 6 performs the first lowering control, lowering the loading platform 2 from the upper region U to the lower end position PD. The first lowering control stops the lowering of the loading platform 2 when the loading platform 2 is in the lower end position PD.

[0073] The second lowering operation is performed by pressing the raising operation input unit 511 while the lowering operation input unit 512 is pressed. In the case of the above operation, the control unit 6 determines that the first lowering operation is being performed until the second lowering operation is performed, and lowers the loading platform 2, stopping the lowering of the loading platform 2 when it reaches the height of the floor surface 72. If the raising operation input unit 511 is pressed while the lowering operation input unit 512 is still pressed, the system transitions to the second lowering control, and while the lowering operation input unit 512 is pressed, the loading platform 2 is lowered to move it below the floor surface position PF. In other words, in this embodiment, by inputting to the raising operation input unit 511 while inputting to the lowering operation input unit 512, the function that stops the lowering of the loading platform 2 when the position sensor 35 detects that the loading platform 2 has reached the floor surface position PF is deactivated.

[0074] With this configuration, based on the inputs made to the upward operation input unit 511 and the downward operation input unit 512, the control unit 6 can determine the type of operation made to the operation unit 51 and raise the load receiving platform 2 from the lower position to the floor position PF or the upper area U.

[0075] Thus, in the third embodiment, the lifting operation input unit 511 is not only pressed to lift the loading platform 2, which is its original function, but is also pressed to distinguish between the first lowering operation and the second lowering operation. In addition to the lifting operation input unit 511, the input device of the operation unit 51, which is not originally used for lifting operations, can also be used to distinguish between the first lowering operation and the second lowering operation. Furthermore, even when the lifting operation input unit 511 is used to distinguish between the first lowering operation and the second lifting operation, the specific operation is not limited to the above example. For example, if the lifting operation input unit 511 is pressed once, and then the lowering operation input unit 512 is pressed within a predetermined time (for example, within 1 second), it can be determined that the second lowering operation has been performed. Conversely, if the lifting operation input unit 511 is not pressed before the predetermined time before the lowering operation input unit 512 is pressed, it can be determined that the first lowering operation has been performed.

[0076] Furthermore, since the second upward operation is performed by pressing the downward operation input unit 512 while the upward operation input unit 511 is pressed, even if input is performed using both the upward operation input unit 511 and the downward operation input unit 512, it is possible to suppress the loading platform 2 from moving in the opposite direction to the intended direction.

[0077] Furthermore, since the second lowering operation is performed by pressing the raising operation input unit 511 while the lowering operation input unit 512 is pressed, even if input is performed using both the raising operation input unit 511 and the lowering operation input unit 512, it is possible to suppress the loading platform 2 from moving in the opposite direction to the intended direction.

[0078] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to one example, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0079] For example, although the explanation described an example where the loading platform lifting device 1 is provided at the rear end of the loading platform 71, the configuration is not limited to this, and it can also be provided at the lateral end of the loading platform 71.

[0080] Furthermore, although the explanation has been given using the case where an exit / exit device 4 is provided as an example, the configuration is not limited to this, and a configuration without an exit / exit device 4 is also possible. In such a configuration, the position of the lifting device 3 in the front-to-back direction is fixed.

[0081] Furthermore, although the explanation described an example where the upward operation input section 511 and the downward operation input section 512 are push buttons, the configuration is not limited to this, and other switches such as toggle switches can also be used.

[0082] Furthermore, although the control unit 6 was described as controlling the loading platform 2 to be raised or lowered only while inputs are being received by the raising operation input unit 511 and the lowering operation input unit 512, the configuration is not limited to this, and it is also possible to configure it to move the loading platform 2 to a predetermined position once an input is received. For example, if a first raising operation is performed on the raising operation input unit 511, the loading platform 2 can be raised from the lower position to the floor position PF even if no further inputs are received, and if a second operation input is received, the loading platform 2 can be raised to the upper end position PU.

[0083] Furthermore, although the operation unit 51 has been described as comprising an upward operation input unit 511 and a downward operation input unit 512, it can also be configured to include other input parts such as an emergency stop switch. Even with such a configuration, if the first upward operation, second upward operation, first downward operation, and second downward operation can be performed by the upward operation input unit 511 and the downward operation input unit 512, the complexity of the operating device can be suppressed. Also, although the case in which the operation unit 51 is provided near the lifting device 3 and the exit device 4 has been described as an example, it is not limited to this, and for example, the operation unit 51 can be configured as a wired or wireless remote control and provided at a location away from the lifting device 3 and the exit device 4. Furthermore, the operation unit 51 is not limited to a configuration with physical buttons, and for example, the entire operation unit 51 can be configured as a touch panel, and the upward operation input unit 511 and the downward operation input unit 512 can be configured as virtual buttons displayed on the touch panel.

[0084] Furthermore, although the control unit 6 has been described as performing both the first and second upward control and the first and second downward control, it is not limited to this configuration, and it is also possible to configure it to perform only the first and second upward control, or only the first and second downward control. In such a configuration, for example, if there is input only to the upward operation input unit 511, it can be determined to be a first upward operation and the first upward control can be performed, and if there is input to both the upward operation input unit 511 and the downward operation input unit 512, it can be determined to be a second upward operation and the second upward control can be performed. In addition, in the above configuration, if there is input only to the downward operation input unit 512, it is also possible to configure it to lower the loading platform 2 regardless of the detection by the position sensor 35.

[0085] Furthermore, the control unit 6 can also be configured to determine whether the loading platform 2 is located at floor level PF based on the detection by the position sensor 35, and even if the operation content of the lifting operation input unit 511 or the lowering operation input unit 512 is the same, perform the first lifting control or the first lowering control if the loading platform 2 is not located at floor level PF, and perform the second lifting control or the second lowering control if the loading platform 2 is located at floor level PF. Even in such a configuration, the complexity of the operation unit 51 can be suppressed. Moreover, even in the above configuration, the loading platform 2 can be raised or lowered when it is not at floor level PF by the configuration of the first to third embodiments.

[0086] Furthermore, although we have described an example configuration in which the position sensor 35 detects that the loading platform 2 is located at floor level PF, the system is not limited to this configuration. For example, the operating time of the lifting device 3 can be measured to determine the position of the loading platform 2.

[0087] Furthermore, while we have described the case where the loading platform 2 is raised and lowered solely by the lifting device 3, the configuration is not limited to this. For example, as shown in Figure 6, the loading platform 2 can be raised and lowered by a combination device of the lifting device 3 and the retraction device 4. Specifically, the lifting device 3 can move the loading platform 2 from the floor position PF to the lower region D, and in positions above the floor position PF, the retraction device 4 can rotate to move the loading platform 2 upward. With such a configuration, the loading platform 2 can be raised and lowered above the floor position PF while suppressing an increase in the vertical dimension of the lifting device 3. In addition, the lifting device 3 raises and lowers the loading platform 2 in the lower region D, which is the normal area, and the retraction device 4 raises and lowers the loading platform 2 in the upper region U, which is the emergency area, thus mechanically dividing the roles of raising and lowering the loading platform 2 according to the area.

[0088] Furthermore, while we have described a configuration in which, when raising the loading platform 2, a first upward control is performed to stop the loading platform 2 at floor level PF, and a second upward control is performed to stop the loading platform 2 at floor level PF, and when lowering the loading platform 2, a first downward control is performed to stop the loading platform 2 at floor level PF, and a second downward control is performed to stop the loading platform 2 at floor level PF, the configuration is not limited to this. For example, when raising the loading platform 2, the above-mentioned first upward control and second upward control are performed, but when lowering the loading platform 2, only the above-mentioned second downward control is performed, and the control to stop the loading platform at floor level PF is not performed. Also, when lowering the loading platform 2, the above-mentioned first downward control and second upward and downward control are performed, but when raising the loading platform 2, only the above-mentioned second upward control is performed, and the control to stop the loading platform at floor level PF is not performed. [Explanation of symbols]

[0089] 1...Loading platform lifting device, 2...Loading platform, 2a...Placement surface, 21...Loading body, 22...Loading front end, 3...Lifting device, 31...Outer column, 31a...Slit, 32...Inner column, 32a...Groove, 33...Slider, 34...Drive unit, 35...Position sensor, 4...Inward / outward device, 41...Loading platform fixing part, 42...Rotating arm part, 43...Fixing plate part, 44...Rising part, 45...Base end Shaft section, 46…Tip shaft section, 5…Operating means, 51…Operating unit, 511…Lifting operation input unit, 512…Lowering operation input unit, 52…In / Out operation unit, 53…Operation switching unit, 531…Lifting / Lowering switching unit, 532…In / Out switching unit, 6…Control unit, 7…Vehicle, 71…Cargo bed, 72…Floor surface, 73…Side panel, D…Lower area, U…Upper area, PD…Lower end position, PF…Floor surface position, PU…Upper end position

Claims

1. The vehicle comprises a loading platform for loading or unloading cargo onto or from the vehicle's cargo bed, a lifting device for raising and lowering the loading platform, an operating unit for operating the lifting device, and a control unit for controlling the lifting device. The lifting device can raise and lower the loading platform between a lower region below the floor level of the loading platform and an upper region above the floor level. The control unit determines whether the operation performed on the operating unit is a first lifting operation for raising the loading platform, or a second lifting operation which is a different operation for raising the loading platform from the first lifting operation. When it is determined that the first raising operation has been performed, control is performed to raise the loading platform from the lower area to the floor level. A loading platform lifting device that controls the loading platform to be raised from the lower region to the upper region when it is determined that the second lifting operation described above has been performed.

2. The aforementioned operating unit includes an upward operation input unit that allows for multiple inputs in a single operation. The loading platform lifting device according to claim 1, wherein the operating unit determines, based on the number of times input to the lifting operation input unit, whether the operation performed on the operating unit is the first lifting operation for raising the loading platform, or the second lifting operation which is a different operation for raising the loading platform from the first lifting operation.

3. The aforementioned operating unit includes an upward operation input unit that allows for continuous input for a predetermined period of time in a single operation. The loading platform lifting device according to claim 1, wherein the operating unit determines, based on the length of time continuously input to the lifting operation input unit, whether the operation performed on the operating unit is the first lifting operation for raising the loading platform, or the second lifting operation which is a different operation for raising the loading platform from the first lifting operation.

4. The operating unit comprises a lifting operation input unit mainly for operating the loading platform to raise it, and a lowering operation input unit mainly for operating the loading platform to lower it. The load-receiving platform lifting device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit determines, based on a combination of an input made to the lifting operation input unit and an input made to the lowering operation input unit superimposed on the said input, whether the operation made to the operation unit is the first lifting operation for raising the load-receiving platform or the second lifting operation which is an operation for raising the load-receiving platform different from the first lifting operation.

5. The vehicle comprises a loading platform for loading or unloading cargo onto or from the vehicle's cargo bed, a lifting device for raising and lowering the loading platform, an operating unit for operating the lifting device, and a control unit for controlling the lifting device. The lifting device can raise and lower the loading platform between a lower region below the floor level of the loading platform and an upper region above the floor level. The control unit determines whether the operation performed on the operation unit is a first lowering operation for lowering the loading platform, or a second lowering operation which is a different operation for lowering the loading platform from the first lowering operation. When it is determined that the first lowering operation has been performed, control is performed to lower the loading platform from the upper area to the floor level. A loading platform lifting device that controls the loading platform to be lowered from the upper region to the lower region when it is determined that the second lowering operation described above has been performed.

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