Work vehicles

Abstract

To provide a work vehicle that enables improved operability. [Solution] The work vehicle 10 has an operation panel 33 facing the driver H, a handle post extending from the operation panel 33 toward the driver H, a display device 50 provided on the operation panel 33, and a rotary operation unit 41 provided on the operation panel 33 for operation by the driver H.

Description

Technical Field

[0005] , , ,

[0001] The present invention relates to a work vehicle.

Background Art

[0002] A work vehicle operated by a driver has an operation panel near the driver's seat, and the operation panel has a plurality of operation parts operated by the driver. Examples of the operation parts include a key switch, a push button switch, and a dial. The work vehicle disclosed in Patent Document 1 has a display device for displaying various information and a dial (rotation operation part) that receives a rotation operation by the driver.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the case of the work vehicle disclosed in Patent Document 1, the operation panel provided with the display device and the rotation operation part is located on the right side of the driver's seat and is on the right side for the driver sitting in the driver's seat. In the work vehicle as described above, by arranging the operation parts appropriately, it is possible to improve the operability. Thus, in the work vehicle operated by the driver, improving the operability of the operation panel becomes an issue. Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a work vehicle capable of improving the operability.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The work vehicle has an operation panel facing the driver, a handle post extending from the operation panel toward the driver, a display device provided on the operation panel, and a rotary operation unit provided on the operation panel for the driver to operate. [Effects of the Invention]

[0006] The usability of the control panel will be improved. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a side view of the work vehicle. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a perspective view of the driver's compartment as seen from the rear. [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows the driver's unit as viewed from the right side. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is an explanatory diagram of the control panel and its surroundings. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is an explanatory diagram of the rotary operation section. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is an explanatory diagram showing another form of the control panel. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] <Overview of Embodiments> The embodiments of the invention are outlined and described below. (1) The work vehicle of this embodiment has an operation panel facing the driver, a handle post extending from the operation panel toward the driver, a display device provided on the operation panel, and a rotary operation unit provided on the operation panel for operation by the driver. The control panel faces the driver and is located directly in front of them. The inclusion of a display device and a rotary control unit on the control panel improves its usability.

[0009] (2) In the work vehicle described in (1) above, the handle post is located on the driver side of the display device, and the rotation operation unit is located on one side of the handle post in the left-right direction. The operability of the rotary control section on the control panel is improved. (3) In the work vehicle described in (1) or (2) above, an operating unit separate from the rotating operating unit is located on one side of the handle post in the left-right direction, and the rotating operating unit is located further from the handle post than the other operating unit. The operability of the rotary control section on the control panel is improved.

[0010] (4) Any one of the work vehicles described in (1) to (3) above has a handle provided on the front side of the handle post, and at least a portion of the rotating operating part is located between a virtual vertical plane that passes through one end of the handle in the left-right direction and extends in the front-rear direction and the one end of the operating panel in the left-right direction. Normally, drivers often operate work vehicles by gripping the steering wheel. With the above configuration, the driver can operate the rotary control unit by simply lowering their hand (right or left) from the steering wheel. This improves the operability of the rotary control unit.

[0011] (5) In any one of the work vehicles described in (1) to (4) above, the rotation operation unit is used when changing the display on the display device. The driver can operate the rotary control unit while checking the display content of the display device.

[0012] (6) In any one of the work vehicles described in (1) to (5) above, the control panel is provided with a plurality of operating parts operated by the driver, and the rotation operating part is one of the operating parts that are located furthest out in the left-right direction on the control panel, among the plurality of operating parts including the rotation operating part. The operation of the rotary control unit becomes less likely to be interfered with by other control units or devices.

[0013] (7) In any one of the work vehicles (1) to (6) above, the rotation operation unit has a rotary dial and a push button positioned adjacent to the rotary dial. For the driver, it is easy to perform the rotation operation of the rotary dial and the operation of the push button performed in relation to the rotation operation.

[0014] (8) In the work vehicle of (7) above, the push button is positioned side by side adjacent to one side in the left - right direction of the rotary dial. When the driver operates the rotation operation unit with the right hand (or left hand), the driver can operate the rotary dial with the thumb and index finger and operate the push button with the middle finger or ring finger, making it possible to reduce the movement of the hand.

[0015] (9) In any one of the work vehicles (1) to (7) above, the operation panel has a first surface on which the display device is provided, and a second surface located closer to the driver than the first surface and on which the rotation operation unit is provided. With respect to the inclination angle with reference to the horizontal plane, the first surface is larger than the second surface. The driver can operate the rotation operation unit with the right hand in a comfortable state while visually recognizing the display device.

[0016] (10) In any one of the work vehicles (1) to (9) above, the rotation operation unit is on one side in the left - right direction of the display device and is located closer to the driver than the display device. [[ID= XXI]] For the driver, it becomes easy to confirm both the display device and the rotation operation unit. The operation of the rotation operation unit while visually recognizing the display device becomes easy.

[0017] (11) In any one of the work vehicles (1) to (10) above, the rotation operation unit is at a position away from one side in the left - right direction from the handle post located at the center in the left - right direction of the operation panel. The operation of the rotation operation unit is less likely to be obstructed by the steering - related operating devices. <00{\color{red}0}0103>

[0018] (12) Any one of the work vehicles described in (1) to (11) above has a second operating unit provided on the control panel and separate from the rotation operating unit, wherein the second operating unit is located in the area of ​​the control panel to one side in the left-right direction from the handle post, and the rotation operating unit is closer to the display device than the second operating unit. The above arrangement is preferable when the operating frequency of the rotary operating part is higher than that of the second operating part.

[0019] (13) Any one of the work vehicles described in (1) to (12) above has a cruise lever provided on the control panel for controlling the travel speed, the rotary control unit has a function for adjusting the rotation speed of the drive unit, and the rotary control unit and the cruise lever are located in an area to one side in the left-right direction from the handle post which is located in the left-right center of the control panel. The drive system's control panel is located in one area on the left-right side, improving operability.

[0020] (14) The work vehicle described in (13) has an on / off control unit provided on the control panel for controlling the on / off of the drive unit, and the on / off control unit is located in the region on one side in the left-right direction. The controls related to the operation of the work vehicle are concentrated in one area on the left or right side of the control panel, improving operability.

[0021] (15) Any one of the work vehicles described in (1) to (14) above has an on / off control unit provided on the control panel for controlling the on / off of the drive unit, and when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the control panel, the on / off control unit is located in the region between the circumscribed circle of the handle provided on the front side of the handle post and the handle post. The on / off control is hidden behind the steering wheel. This helps to prevent accidental operation of the on / off control while driving.

[0022] (16) Any one of the work vehicles described in (1) to (15) above has an on / off control unit on the control panel for controlling the on / off of the drive unit, the on / off control unit being located closer to the driver than the rotation control unit. The on / off control unit is located close to the driver, allowing for operation in emergencies.

[0023] (17) Any one of the work vehicles described in (1) to (16) above has an on / off control unit on the control panel for controlling the on / off of the drive unit, wherein the on / off control unit is located closer to the handle post than the rotation control unit. The on / off control is hidden behind the steering wheel. This helps to prevent accidental operation of the on / off control while driving.

[0024] <Details of the Embodiment of the Invention> The embodiments of the invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. At least some of the embodiments described below may be combined in any way.

[0025] [Overall configuration of work vehicles] Figure 1 is a side view of a work vehicle. The work vehicle 10 shown in Figure 1 is a vehicle used for agricultural work, and specifically a small tractor. However, the work vehicle of the present invention is not limited to a tractor, and may also be construction machinery, utility vehicles, or other vehicles.

[0026] In this disclosure, the direction in which the work vehicle 10 moves forward (leftward in the case of Figure 1) is defined as front, the direction in which the work vehicle 10 moves backward is defined as rear, the left side when the work vehicle 10 is facing forward is defined as left, and the right side when the work vehicle 10 is facing forward is defined as right. These front, rear, left, and right directions are the same as the front, rear, left, and right directions for the driver (user) seated in the driver's seat 31 of the work vehicle 10. The left and right directions are the width direction of the work vehicle 10, that is, the vehicle width direction.

[0027] The work vehicle 10 comprises a vehicle body 11, a running gear 12, and an operating unit 13. The work vehicle 10 shown in Figure 1 further comprises a work device 14 and a control device. The vehicle body 11 includes a frame 21 that forms the vehicle's skeleton, a drive unit 22, a gearbox 23, and a front bonnet 24. The drive unit 22 is a power source for the work vehicle 10 and may be an electric motor or an engine. The gearbox 23 operates in response to the driver H's input, changing the rotational speed of the drive unit 22's output shaft and changing the direction of travel of the work vehicle 10. The power generated by the drive unit 22 operates the travel device 12, causing the work vehicle 10 to move.

[0028] In the case of the work vehicle 10 shown in Figure 1, the work device 14 is a loader, and the work device 14 is mounted on the front of the machine frame 21. The loader swings the bucket 14a and boom 14b using a hydraulic actuator. The work device 14 may be something other than a loader.

[0029] The vehicle body 11 can be fitted with another work device 16 to its rear. The work device 16 is interchangeable, and various work devices 16 can be fitted to the vehicle body 11 depending on the work to be performed. The vehicle body 11 has a PTO shaft (power take-off shaft) 17. The PTO shaft 17 is one of the output shafts of the gearbox 23 and rotates due to power from the drive unit 22. The work device 16 can operate by receiving power (rotational force) from the PTO shaft 17. The work device 16 is, for example, a brush cutter, and the brush cutter operates due to the rotation of the PTO shaft 17.

[0030] The running gear 12 supports the vehicle body 11 so that it can move. The running gear 12 has left and right front wheels 12A and left and right rear wheels 12B. The front wheels 12A and rear wheels 12B are rotationally driven by power received from the drive unit 22. The front wheels 12A and rear wheels 12B are not limited to tires and may be in other forms such as crawlers.

[0031] The driver's unit 13 is located on the vehicle body 11. The driver's unit 13 includes a driver's seat 31, a driver's floor 32, an operation panel 33, and a steering device 34. The driver's seat 31 is the seat where the driver H, who operates and runs the work vehicle 10, sits. The driver's floor 32 is located in front of and below the driver's seat 31. The driver's floor 32 is the area where the driver H, seated in the driver's seat 31, rests their feet. Operating pedals (not shown) that can be operated with the feet of the driver H, seated in the driver's seat 31, are provided on the driver's floor 32.

[0032] The control panel 33 is located in front of the driver's seat 31. The control panel 33 is positioned opposite the driver H (especially their face) when they are seated in the driver's seat 31. The control panel 33 has multiple operating parts 40 (see Figure 2) that the driver H operates by hand. The control panel 33 is also called the instrument panel. The control panel 33 and the operating parts 40 will be described later.

[0033] The steering system 34 includes a steering wheel 37, a steering shaft 38, and a steering post 39. The steering wheel 37 is located in front of the driver's seat 31 and on the driver's floor 32. The steering wheel 37 in this embodiment is annular and is also called a steering wheel. The steering shaft 38 is connected to the steering wheel 37 and rotates when the steering wheel 37 is operated. The rotation of the steering shaft 38 changes the direction in which the wheels (front wheels 12A) roll, and changes the left-right direction of travel of the work vehicle 10.

[0034] The steering post 39 is a component that surrounds the steering shaft 38 and extends from a part of the control panel 33 toward the driver H seated in the driver's seat 31. The steering post 39 is also called the steering column. The steering wheel 37 is located toward the driver H side, i.e., toward the driver's seat 31, relative to the control panel 33. In this embodiment, the steering device 34 has a tilt mechanism that allows the steering shaft 38 to swing between an upper-forward position and a lower-rearward position, thereby changing the position of the steering wheel 37.

[0035] The control device is a computer device including a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and memory, and is, for example, an MCU (Micro Controller Unit). The control device has the processor perform various calculations and processes according to the computer program stored in the memory. This controls various parts of the work vehicle 10 (for example, the drive unit 22, the display panel 33).

[0036] [Control Panel 33] Figure 2 is a perspective view of the driver's unit 13 as seen from the rear. The operation panel 33 has a display device 50. The display device 50 is an output interface that displays information such as the status of the work vehicle 10 or predetermined values ​​to the driver H according to the output of the control device. The display device 50 is, for example, a liquid crystal monitor and displays and outputs various information. A rotary operation unit 41, which will be described later, is used to change the display of the display device 50. The display device 50 is located in the center of the operation panel 33 in the left-right direction.

[0037] Figure 3 shows the driver's unit 13 as viewed from the right side. As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the operation panel 33 has a first surface 331 on which the display device 50 is provided, and a second surface 332 located on the driver's side H than the first surface 331. The position on the driver's side H is the position on the driver's seat 31 side. The first surface 331 and the second surface 332 may each have a partially uneven shape for the operation unit 40, but overall they have a flat surface. With respect to the horizontal plane P, the inclination angle θ of the first surface 331 is greater than that of the second surface 332. In Figure 3, the inclination angle of the first surface 331 is "θ1", and the inclination angle of the second surface 332 is "θ2", so θ1 > θ2.

[0038] Figure 4 is an explanatory diagram of the control panel 33 and its surroundings. Figure 4 shows the control panel 33 as viewed from a direction perpendicular to the second surface 332. Figures 3 and 4 show the center line of the steering shaft 38 perpendicular to the second surface 332. The control panel 33 has multiple control units 40 that are operated by the driver H manually. Each control unit 40 is an input interface that accepts operations from the driver H. When the control panel 33 is viewed from above the driver's seat 31, it looks as shown in Figure 4, and when the driver H sitting in the driver's seat 31 looks at the control panel 33, it looks approximately as shown in Figure 4.

[0039] The multiple operating units 40 include a rotary operating unit 41, a cruise lever 42, an on / off operating unit 43, a tilt lever 44, a combination switch 45, and a stationary PTO switch 46. The rotary operating unit 41, cruise lever 42, on / off operating unit 43, tilt lever 44, combination switch 45, and stationary PTO switch 46 are located on the second surface 332 of the operation panel 33. The display device 50 is located on the first surface 331 of the operation panel 33.

[0040] Figure 5 is an explanatory diagram of the rotary operation unit 41. The rotary operation unit 41 has one rotary dial 411 and a plurality of push buttons 412. The rotary dial 411 is a jog dial that accepts rotational operation by the driver H. The push buttons 412 are button switches that accept pressing operation by the driver H. The push button 412 is located adjacent to the rotary dial 411. Therefore, it is easy for the driver H to operate both the rotary dial 411 and the push button 412 in relation to that operation.

[0041] The push buttons 412 are located to the right of the rotary dial 411. In this embodiment, three push buttons 412 are positioned adjacent to the rotary dial 411, arranged in a front-to-back direction. When the driver H operates the rotary control unit 41 with his right hand, he can operate the rotary dial 411 with his thumb and index finger, and the push buttons 412 with his middle or ring finger, thus minimizing hand movement.

[0042] An example of the function of the rotary operation unit 41 will be described. In addition to being used to change the display on the display device 50, the rotary operation unit 41 also has the function of adjusting the rotation speed of the drive unit 22. When operator H rotates the rotary dial 411 clockwise, the control device increases the rotational speed of the drive unit 22 according to the amount of rotation (rotation angle). In accordance with this rotation, the display device 50 displays information about the rotational speed, allowing operator H to confirm the rotational speed. The rotational speed of the drive unit 22 affects the travel speed of the work vehicle 10, the rotational speed of the PTO shaft 17, or the operating speed of the work devices 14 and 16.

[0043] In this embodiment, among the rotational speeds of the drive unit 22, frequently used rotational speeds (for example, idle speed or maximum speed) are set as default values ​​in the control device. The display device 50 displays these multiple default values ​​side by side. One of the multiple default values ​​is displayed as a selection candidate (for example, with a thick border), and by rotating the rotary dial 411, the default value displayed as a selection candidate (for example, with a thick border) switches sequentially. In other words, the rotary dial 411 is used to select one default value from multiple default values.

[0044] With one default value selected, the default value can be confirmed by pressing the rotary dial 411, which also functions as a push button. Once confirmed, the control device performs control to match the rotation speed of the drive unit 22 to the confirmed default value. In this embodiment, there are three push buttons 412. The three push buttons 412 (412A, 412B, and 413C) are arranged in a line from the side furthest from the driver H to the side closest to the driver H (from front to back), and each is assigned a different function. The first push button 412A has a preset function, such as recalling pre-set information. The second push button 412B has the function of switching between the home screen and the function screen on the display device 50. The third push button 413C has the function of returning to the previous screen on the display device 50. The function of the rotary operation unit 41 described above is just one example, and it can be used for a variety of applications.

[0045] Let me explain the cruise lever 42. An accelerator pedal 49 is provided on the driver's floor 32 as an operating pedal that can be operated with the foot by the driver H sitting in the driver's seat 31 (see Figure 3). By operating the accelerator pedal 49, the work vehicle 10 is started and the travel speed of the work vehicle 10 is changed. The cruise lever 42 is connected via a power transmission member 48 to a movable mechanism (not shown) that is linked to the accelerator pedal 49. When the driver H pulls up the cruise lever 42, it is held in that position. When the cruise lever 42 is pulled up, the state of the movable mechanism is maintained, and the travel speed of the work vehicle 10 is kept constant. As a result, the work vehicle 10 can travel at a constant speed without the driver H having to keep pressing the accelerator pedal. Thus, the cruise lever 42 is a lever-type switch for controlling the travel speed.

[0046] The on / off operation unit 43 is an ignition key and functions as a switch (key switch) for controlling the on / off state of the drive unit 22. By rotating the on / off operation unit 43 in the first direction, the drive unit 22 is turned on. If the drive unit 22 is a motor, when it is turned on, it enters a standby state in which drive current can be supplied to the motor. Subsequently, the motor rotates in response to the operation of the accelerator pedal, and the work vehicle 10 begins to move. When the on / off control unit 43 is rotated in the second direction, opposite to the first direction, the drive unit 22 is turned off. In the off state, the motor cannot receive drive current, resulting in a stationary state.

[0047] The tilt lever 44 will now be described. As mentioned above, the position of the steering wheel 37 can be changed by the tilt mechanism. Moving the tilt lever 44 in the first direction makes the steering wheel 37 and the steering shaft 38 free to move within the tilt mechanism. In this free state, the steering wheel 37 is adjusted to the desired position. Moving the tilt lever 44 in the second direction, opposite to the first direction, makes the steering wheel 37 and the steering shaft 38 immobile within the tilt mechanism.

[0048] The combination switch 45 has multiple push-button switches. The work vehicle 10, although not shown, has turn signals, hazard lights, and headlights. The combination switch 45 is the operating unit for activating the turn signals for lane changes, switching the hazard lights on and off, and switching the headlights on and off. The combination switch 45 is an auxiliary switch for assisting vehicle operation.

[0049] The stationary PTO switch 46 will now be described. As mentioned above, the work vehicle 10 has a PTO shaft 17. The work vehicle 10 is equipped with a sensor in the driver's seat 31, and is configured so that the PTO shaft 17 does not rotate unless the driver H is seated in the driver's seat 31. Exceptionally, for example, it may be necessary to rotate the PTO shaft 17 while the driver H is standing next to the work vehicle 10. In such cases, the stationary PTO switch 46 is operated, which exceptionally allows the PTO shaft 17 to rotate; in other words, it exceptionally permits the rotation of the PTO shaft 17. The switch for rotating and stopping (on and off) the PTO shaft 17 is located on the vehicle body 11 (fender).

[0050] [Arrangement of the control unit 40] The arrangement of the multiple operating units 40 will now be explained. As shown in Figure 4, the operating section 40 of the work vehicle 10 in this embodiment includes an operating panel 33 facing the driver H, a handle post 39 extending from the operating panel 33 toward the driver H, a display device 50 provided on the operating panel 33, and a rotary operating section 41 provided on the operating panel 33 for operation by the driver H. The operating panel 33 faces the driver H, who is seated in the driver's seat 31 and facing forward, and is located directly in front of the driver H. The operating panel 33 is equipped with a display device 50 and multiple operating sections 40, including the rotary operating section 41. Therefore, the operating panel 33 is highly operable.

[0051] The handle post 39 is located on the driver's side (driver's seat 31 side) relative to the display device 50. The rotary control unit 41 is located on the right side of the handle post 39, which is one side in the left-right direction. An on / off control unit 43 is located to the right of the handle post 39, as a separate control unit 40 from the rotation control unit 41. When a two-dimensional coordinate system is set on a plane including the top surface, with the intersection point of the top surface of the control panel 33 (second surface 332) and the center line of the handle post 39 as reference Q, the rotation control unit 41 is located further from reference Q than the on / off control unit 43. In other words, the rotation control unit 41 is located further from the handle post 39 than the on / off control unit 43.

[0052] As shown in Figure 4, at least a portion of the rotary operating section 41 is located between a virtual vertical plane K1 that passes through the right end 371 of the handle 37 and extends in the front-rear direction, and the right end 333 of the operation panel 33. In this embodiment, more than half of the right side of the rotary operating section 41 is located between the virtual vertical plane K1 and the right end 333 of the operation panel 33. If we consider the virtual vertical plane K1 as the "first virtual vertical plane K1" and the virtual vertical plane that passes through the rightmost end 333 of the operation panel 33 and extends in the front-rear direction as the "second virtual vertical plane K2", then at least a portion of the rotary operating section 41 is located on the operation panel 33 between the first virtual circular plane K1 and the second virtual vertical plane K2.

[0053] The rotary control unit 41 is positioned across the intersection line L1 between the first virtual vertical plane K1 and the control panel 33 (second surface 332). Figure 4 is a view of the control panel 33 from the driver H side, that is, a plan view, and as shown in Figure 4, the first virtual vertical plane K1 and the intersection line L1 coincide. The rotary operating section 41 is located to the right of the intersection line L1, within the width of a palm, specifically within 20 cm.

[0054] In this embodiment, the rotary dial 411 of the rotary operation unit 41 is located in a position that overlaps with the intersection line L1. Alternatively, the rotary operating unit 41 may be located to the right of the configuration shown in Figure 4. In other words, the entire rotary operating unit 41 may be located in a region to the right of the intersection line L1 between the first virtual vertical plane K1 and the operating panel 33 (second surface 332).

[0055] Typically, driver H has many opportunities to operate the work vehicle by gripping the steering wheel 37. Therefore, with the rotation control unit 41 positioned as described above, the driver H can operate the rotation control unit 41 by lowering their hand (right hand) from the steering wheel 37. The rotation control unit 41 is easy to operate. As described above, the rotary control unit 41 is used to change the display on the display device 50. Therefore, the driver H can operate the rotary control unit 41 while checking the display content of the display device 50, making the operation easier.

[0056] Multiple operating units 40 are arranged on the control panel 33. The rotary operating unit 41, the cruise lever 42, and the on / off operating unit 43 are located in the right half of the control panel 33. The handle post 39 is located in the center of the control panel 33 in the left-right direction. The rotary operating unit 41, the cruise lever 42, and the on / off operating unit 43 are located in the area to the right of the handle post 39.

[0057] In the right half of the control panel 33, the rotary control unit 41 and the cruise lever 42 are positioned furthest out (rightmost) in the left-right direction. In other words, the rotary control unit 41 is one of the multiple control units 40 that are positioned furthest out (rightmost in this embodiment) in the left-right direction on the control panel 33. The rotary control unit 41 is operated more frequently than the cruise lever 42 and the on / off control unit 43, which are also located on the right side. By positioning the rotary control unit 41 outward (to the right) in the left-right direction, the operation of the rotary control unit 41 is less likely to be interfered with by other control units 40 or control devices (e.g., the handle 37).

[0058] As explained in Figure 3, the control panel 33 has a first surface 331 on which the display device 50 is provided, and a second surface 332 located on the driver H side of the first surface 331. The rotary control unit 41 is provided on the second surface 332. The inclination angle θ with respect to the horizontal plane P is greater for the first surface 331 than for the second surface 332 (θ1 > θ2). Therefore, the driver H can operate the rotary control unit 41 with his right hand in a comfortable position while viewing the display device 50.

[0059] The rotary control unit 41 is located to the right of the display device 50 and on the driver H side of the display device 50, that is, on the driver's seat 31 side. This makes it easy for the driver H to check both the display device 50 and the rotary control unit 41. It also makes it easy to operate the rotary control unit 41 while visually checking the display device 50. In particular, as described above, the operation panel 33 has a first surface 331 and a second surface 332 that are angled, and the display device 50 is provided on the first surface 331 and the rotary operation unit 41 is provided on the second surface 332, making it easy to check both the display device 50 and the rotary operation unit 41.

[0060] The rotary control unit 41 is located to the right of the steering shaft 38 (handle post 39), which is located in the center of the control panel 33 in the left-right direction. Moreover, the rotary control unit 41 is located on the driver H side of the display device 50. Since the rotary operating unit 41 is located to the right of the steering shaft 38 and the handle post 39, the operation of the rotary operating unit 41 is less likely to be interfered with by the steering-related operating devices, namely the handle 37, steering shaft 38, and handle post 39.

[0061] In the right-hand area of ​​the control panel 33, among the multiple control units 40, a cruise lever 42 and an on / off control unit 43 are included as second control units separate from the rotary control unit 41. The cruise lever 42 and the on / off control unit 43 (second control units) are located in the area of ​​the control panel 33 to the right of the steering shaft 38 (handle post 39). The rotary control unit 41 is closer to the display device 50 than the cruise lever 42 and the on / off control unit 43 (second control units). As mentioned above, the operation frequency of the rotary control unit 41 is higher than that of the cruise lever 42 and the on / off control unit 43, so the above arrangement is preferable.

[0062] The rotary control unit 41 and the cruise lever 42 are located in the area to the right of the steering shaft 38 (handle post 39), which is located in the center of the control panel 33 in the left-right direction. As described above, the rotary control unit 41 and the cruise lever 42 function as controls for the drive system (driving system). The fact that these controls are concentrated in the right-hand area provides high operability for the drive system (driving system).

[0063] The on / off control unit 43 is located in the right-hand area of ​​the control panel 33. The on / off control unit 43, the rotary control unit 41, and the cruise lever 42 function as controls related to the operation of the work vehicle 10. By grouping these controls in the right-hand area of ​​the control panel 33, the operability related to the operation of the work vehicle 10 is enhanced.

[0064] As shown in Figure 4, when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the second surface 332 of the control panel 33, the on / off control unit 43 is located in the region between the circumscribed circle of the steering wheel 37 and the steering shaft 38 (steering wheel post 39). In this embodiment, since the steering wheel 37 is circular, its circumscribed circle coincides with the shape of the outer edge of the steering wheel 37. In this embodiment, the entire on / off control unit 43 is located in the region between the circumscribed circle of the steering wheel 37 and the steering shaft 38 (steering wheel post 39). The on / off control unit 43 is hidden by the steering wheel 37. This makes it possible to suppress accidental operation of the on / off control unit 43 while driving.

[0065] The on / off control unit 43 is located closer to the driver than the rotation control unit 41. The on / off control unit 43 is located closer to the steering shaft 38 (steering wheel post 39) than the rotation control unit 41. The on / off control unit 43 is close to the driver H (driver's seat 31), making it easy to operate the on / off control unit 43 in an emergency.

[0066] The arrangement of the control section 40 in the left-hand area of ​​the control panel 33 will now be described. The tilt lever 44, combination switch 45, and stationary PTO switch 46 are located in the left-hand area of ​​the control panel 33. The tilt lever 44 is located near the handlebar post 39. The combination switch 45 is located to the left of the tilt lever 44.

[0067] At least a portion of the combination switch 45 is positioned between a third virtual vertical plane K3 that passes through the left end 372 of the steering wheel 37 and extends in the front-rear direction, and the left end 334 of the control panel 33. Normally, the driver H often operates the work vehicle by gripping the steering wheel 37. With the combination switch 45 positioned as described above, the driver H can operate the combination switch 45 by lowering their hand (left hand) from the steering wheel 37. This improves the operability of the combination switch 45.

[0068] The stationary PTO switch 46 is located closer to the display device 50 than the tilt lever 44 and the combination switch 45. As shown in Figure 4, when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the second surface 332 of the operation panel 33, the stationary PTO switch 46 and the tilt lever 44 are located in the region between the circumscribed circle of the steering wheel 37 and the steering shaft 38 (steering wheel post 39).

[0069] In the configuration shown in Figure 4, the operation panel 33 has a display device 50 on the first surface 331 and a rotary operation unit 41 and other operation units 40 on the second surface 332. The rotary operation unit 41 may also be provided on the first surface 331. In other words, Figure 6 is an explanatory diagram showing another form of the control panel 33. In the form shown in Figure 6, the control panel 33 has a first surface 331 and a second surface 332 located on the driver H side of the first surface 331, and the display device 50 and the rotary control unit 41 are provided on the first surface 331. In addition to the rotary control unit 41, one or more other control units 40 may be provided on the first surface 331. Furthermore, in Figure 6, another control unit 40 may be provided on the first surface 331 instead of the rotary control unit 41. The display device 50 and one or more control units 40 may be provided on the first surface 331.

[0070] 〔others〕 As described above, in this embodiment, the case in which multiple operating units 40 are arranged on the operation panel 33 has been explained, but not all of the operating units 40 described are necessarily provided on the operation panel 33, and one or more operating units 40 may be omitted. The operation method for each control unit 40 can be changed to either a switch type or a lever type.

[0071] The arrangement of the multiple operating units 40 on the control panel 33 may be reversed in the left-right direction. If the arrangement is reversed, "right" should be read as "left" and "left" as "right" in the above explanations.

[0072] The embodiments described above are illustrative and not restrictive in all respects. The scope of the present invention is indicated by the claims rather than by the embodiments, and includes all modifications within the scope equivalent to the configurations described in the claims.

[0073] [Note] The inventions described below relate to the work vehicles of this disclosure. Furthermore, each of the following inventions may have at least a part of the configurations described in Figures 1 to 5.

[0074] [1] The work vehicle 10 has a handle 37 provided on the front side of the handle post 39, and at least a part of the rotating operating section 41 is located between a virtual vertical plane K1 that passes through one end of the handle 37 in the left-right direction (right end 371) and extends in the front-rear direction and the one end of the operating panel 33 in the left-right direction (right end 333). Normally, the driver H often operates the work vehicle 10 by gripping the steering wheel 37. With the above configuration, the driver H can operate the rotary control unit 41 by lowering their hand (right or left) from the steering wheel 37. This improves the operability of the rotary control unit 41.

[0075] [2] The work vehicle 10 is It has an operation panel 33 facing the driver H and having a plurality of operation units 40 that the driver H operates, The plurality of operating units 40 include a rotary operating unit 41, The rotary operation unit 41 is one of the operation units 40 that are located furthest out in the left-right direction on the operation panel 33, out of the plurality of operation units 40. According to the work vehicle 10 described in [2] above, the operation of the rotary operation unit 41 is less likely to be interfered with by other operation units 40 or operating devices.

[0076] [3] The work vehicle 10 is It has an operation panel 33 facing the driver H and having a plurality of operation units 40 that the driver H operates, The plurality of operating units 40 include a rotary operating unit 41, The rotary operation unit 41 includes a rotary dial 411 and a push button 412 located adjacent to the rotary dial 411. The push button 412 is positioned next to the rotary dial 411 on one side in the left-right direction. According to the work vehicle 10 described in [3] above, when the driver H operates the rotary control unit 41 by hand, he can operate the rotary dial 411 with his thumb and index finger and the push button 412 with his middle or ring finger, thereby reducing the amount of hand movement required.

[0077] [4] The work vehicle 10 is It has an operation panel 33 facing the driver H and having a plurality of operation units 40 that the driver H operates, The operation panel 33 has a display device 50, The plurality of operating units 40 include a rotary operating unit 41, The rotation operation unit 41 is located on one side (for example, the right side) in the left-right direction relative to the display device 50, and is positioned closer to the driver H than the display device 50. According to the work vehicle 10 described in [4] above, it becomes easier for the driver H to check both the display device 50 and the rotary operation unit 41. It becomes easier to operate the rotary operation unit 41 while visually checking the display device 50.

[0078] [5] In a work vehicle 10 having the rotary operation unit 41 and the display device 50, The operation panel 33 has a first surface 331 on which the display device 50 is provided, and a second surface 332 located on the driver H side of the first surface 331 and on which the rotation operation unit 41 is provided. With respect to the horizontal plane P, the inclination angle θ of the first surface 331 is greater than that of the second surface 332. According to the work vehicle 10 described in [5] above, the driver H can operate the rotary control unit 41 with his hands in a relaxed position while viewing the display device 50.

[0079] [6] The work vehicle 10 is It has an operation panel 33 facing the driver H and having a plurality of operation units 40 that the driver H operates, The plurality of operating units 40 include a rotary operating unit 41, The rotational operation unit 41 is located to one side (for example, to the right) of the steering shaft 38 (handle post 39) which is located in the center of the operation panel 33 in the left-right direction. According to the work vehicle 10 described in [6] above, the operation of the rotary operation unit 41 is less likely to be interfered with by steering-related operating devices.

[0080] [7] The work vehicle 10 is It has an operation panel 33 facing the driver H and having a plurality of operation units 40 that the driver H operates, The plurality of operating units 40 include a rotary operating unit 41, The rotation operation unit 41 has the function of adjusting the rotation speed of the drive unit 22. The aforementioned plurality of operating units 40 include a cruise lever 42 for controlling the travel speed. The rotary operating section 41 and the cruise lever 42 are located in a region to one side (for example, the right side) of the steering shaft 38 (handle post 39), which is located in the center of the operating panel 33 in the left-right direction. According to the work vehicle 10 described in [7] above, the operating unit 40 of the drive system (travel system) is located in the area on one side in the left-right direction, which improves operability.

[0081] [8] The work vehicle 10 is An operation panel 33 facing the driver H and having multiple operating parts 40 that the driver H operates, It has a handle 37 located on the driver H side of the control panel 33, The plurality of operating units 40 include an on / off operating unit 43 for controlling the on / off state of the drive unit 22. The on / off operation unit 43 is located in the region between the circumscribed circle of the handle 37 and the steering shaft 38 (handle post 39). According to the work vehicle 10 described in [8] above, the on / off control unit 43 is hidden behind the handle 37. This makes it possible to prevent accidental operation of the on / off control unit 43 while driving.

[0082] [9] The work vehicle 10 is It has an operation panel 33 facing the driver H and having a plurality of operation units 40 that the driver H operates, The plurality of operating units 40 include a rotation operating unit 41 and an on / off operating unit 43 for controlling the on / off state of the drive unit 22. The on / off operation unit 43 is located closer to the driver H than the rotation operation unit 41. According to the work vehicle 10 described in [9] above, the on / off control unit 43 is close to the driver H, making it possible to operate the on / off control unit 43 in an emergency.

[0083]

[10] The work vehicle 10 is It has an operation panel 33 facing the driver H and having a plurality of operation units 40 that the driver H operates, The plurality of operating units 40 include a rotation operating unit 41 and an on / off operating unit 43 for controlling the on / off state of the drive unit 22. The on / off operation unit 43 is located closer to the steering shaft 38 (handle post 39) than the rotation operation unit 41. According to the work vehicle 10 described in

[10] above, the on / off control unit 43 is hidden within the steering wheel 37 connected to the steering shaft 38. This makes it possible to prevent accidental operation of the on / off control unit 43 while driving. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0084] 10 Work Vehicles 22 Drive unit 33 Control Panel 37 Handle 38 Steering shaft 39 Handlepost 40 Control section 41 Rotary operation section 42 Cruise lever (second control section) 43. On / Off Control Unit (Second Control Unit) 50 Display device 331 Front page 332 Second side 333 Right edge of the control panel 371 Right end of the handle 411 Rotary Dial 412 Push Button H Driver K1 Virtual Vertical Plane θ1 Inclination angle of the first surface θ2 Inclination angle of the second surface

Claims

1. A control panel facing the driver, A handle post extending from the control panel toward the driver, The display device provided on the aforementioned control panel, The control panel includes a rotary control unit operated by the operator, A work vehicle equipped with [specific features / equipment].

2. The handle post is located on the driver side of the display device, The rotation operating part is located on one side of the handle post in the left-right direction. The work vehicle according to claim 1.

3. An operating part, separate from the rotation operating part, is located on one side of the handle post in the left-right direction. The aforementioned rotation operating unit is located further from the handle post than the other operating unit. The work vehicle according to claim 1.

4. The handle is provided on the front end of the aforementioned handle post, At least a portion of the rotational operating section is located between a virtual vertical plane that passes through one end of the handle in the left-right direction and extends in the front-rear direction, and one end of the operating panel in the left-right direction. The work vehicle according to claim 1.

5. The rotation operation unit is used when changing the display of the display device. A work vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The aforementioned control panel is provided with a plurality of operating units that are operated by the driver, The rotation operation unit is one of the operation units, among the plurality of operation units including the rotation operation unit, that is positioned furthest outward in the left-right direction on the operation panel. A work vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

7. The rotary operation unit comprises a rotary dial and a push button located adjacent to the rotary dial. A work vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

8. The aforementioned push button is located adjacent to one side of the rotary dial in the left-right direction. The work vehicle according to claim 7.

9. The control panel has a first surface on which the display device is provided, and a second surface located closer to the driver than the first surface and on which the rotary control unit is provided. With respect to the angle of inclination relative to the horizontal plane, the first surface is larger than the second surface. A work vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

10. The rotation operation unit is located on one side in the left-right direction relative to the display device, and on the driver side relative to the display device. A work vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

11. The aforementioned rotational operation unit is located at a position away from one side in the left-right direction from the handle post, which is located in the center of the operation panel in the left-right direction. A work vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

12. The control panel has a second control unit, which is separate from the rotation control unit, The second operating section is located in the area of ​​the operating panel that is to one side in the left-right direction from the handle post. The rotation operation unit is closer to the display device than the second operation unit. A work vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

13. The aforementioned control panel is provided and has a cruise lever for controlling the driving speed, The aforementioned rotation operation unit has the function of adjusting the rotation speed of the drive unit. The aforementioned rotary operating unit and the cruise lever are located in a region to one side in the left-right direction from the handle post which is located in the center in the left-right direction of the operating panel. A work vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

14. The control panel is provided with an on / off control unit for controlling the on / off state of the drive unit, The on / off operation unit is located in the region on one side in the left-right direction. The work vehicle according to claim 13.

15. The aforementioned control panel is provided and has an on / off control unit for controlling the on / off state of the drive unit, When viewed from a direction perpendicular to the control panel, the on / off control unit is located in the region between the circumscribed circle of the handle, which is provided on the front end of the handle post, and the handle post. A work vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

16. The aforementioned control panel is provided and has an on / off control unit for controlling the on / off state of the drive unit, The on / off operation unit is located closer to the driver than the rotation operation unit. A work vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

17. The aforementioned control panel is provided and has an on / off control unit for controlling the on / off state of the drive unit, The on / off operation unit is located closer to the handle post than the rotation operation unit. A work vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

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