Work equipment

Abstract

There is a need to further improve the accuracy of fuel identification using sensors. [Solution] The system comprises an engine capable of being driven by each of several types of fuel, including carbon-neutral fuel; a fuel tank for storing fuel; a supply pipe for supplying fuel from the fuel tank to the engine; an identification sensor 10 for identifying carbon-neutral fuel; a base unit including a fuel inlet 46 into which fuel flows in and a fuel outlet 45 for discharging fuel; and equipment 18 having a predetermined function, the base unit having a mounting portion for attaching the equipment 18.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a working machine equipped with an engine driven by carbon-neutral fuel.

Background Art

[0002] There are working machines equipped with engines that can be driven by multiple types of carbon-neutral fuels, and even by mixed fuels of multiple different carbon-neutral fuels. Such an engine can be driven by at least either a predetermined carbon-neutral fuel or a carbon-neutral fuel with a predetermined mixing ratio.

[0003] In such an engine, when an inappropriate fuel other than the drivable fuel is used, engine problems such as engine failure may occur.

[0004] In order to use appropriate fuel, in the construction machine described in Patent Document 1, a sensor for detecting the physical quantity of fuel is provided. Further, various devices may be attached to the supply path for supplying fuel to the engine.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] In a device driven by an engine, it is required to efficiently arrange the device while accurately identifying the fuel by a sensor.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] To achieve the above objective, a work machine according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises an engine capable of being driven by each of several types of fuel, including carbon neutral fuel; a fuel tank for storing the fuel; a supply pipe for supplying the fuel from the fuel tank to the engine; an identification sensor for identifying the carbon neutral fuel; a base portion including a fuel inlet into which the fuel flows in and a fuel outlet for discharging the fuel; and equipment having a predetermined function, wherein the base portion has a mounting portion for attaching the equipment.

[0008] This configuration allows for easy attachment of equipment to the base unit that discharges the incoming fuel. Therefore, equipment that performs a predetermined function on the fuel can be easily installed near the flowing fuel, and the equipment can perform its function with precision.

[0009] The base portion comprises a fuel passage portion that forms the fuel inlet and fuel outlet, and a storage portion provided in the fuel passage portion for storing the fuel, and the mounting portion may be attached to the fuel passage portion.

[0010] This configuration allows the equipment to be mounted in an efficient location depending on the situation. Therefore, the equipment can perform its function with precision.

[0011] The base portion comprises a fuel passage section that forms the fuel inlet and fuel outlet, and a storage section provided in the fuel passage section for storing the fuel. The mounting portion may be attached to the storage portion.

[0012] This configuration allows the equipment to be mounted in an efficient location depending on the situation. Therefore, the equipment can perform its function with precision.

[0013] Furthermore, the base portion further includes a fuel return port for discharging fuel to return it to the fuel tank, a return pipe for returning fuel from the engine to the fuel tank, and a branch pipe for circulating fuel from the equipment to the return pipe, wherein the fuel from the fuel outlet toward the engine circulates through the supply pipe, and the fuel from the fuel return port toward the fuel tank circulates through the branch pipe and the return pipe.

[0014] In this configuration, the fuel supplied to the engine is delivered via a device. Therefore, the fuel that has undergone a predetermined process by the device is supplied to the engine.

[0015] Furthermore, the identification sensor may be provided on a side surface of the base portion that intersects the direction of gravity.

[0016] In fuel passages, fuel often flows out from the upper side in the direction of gravity. By positioning identification sensors on the sides of the fuel passages, the sensors can accurately identify fuel whose flow velocity has been reduced in the fuel passages.

[0017] The device may also be a fuel filter that removes foreign matter from the fuel.

[0018] With this configuration, the fuel filter can remove foreign matter from the fuel, thus removing fragments of the identification sensor from the fuel and accurately preventing those fragments from reaching the engine. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0019] [Figure 1] This diagram illustrates the overall configuration of a rice transplanter, which is a type of agricultural machinery. [Figure 2] This diagram illustrates the overall configuration of a tractor, which is a type of work implement. [Figure 3] This diagram illustrates the overall configuration of a backhoe, which is a type of work machine. [Figure 4]It is a diagram illustrating the relationship between a path for supplying fuel to an engine and an identification sensor. [Figure 5] It is a diagram illustrating the operation flow of an identification sensor. [Figure 6] It is a cross-sectional view illustrating the configuration of an identification sensor provided in a sub-tank. [Figure 7] It is a diagram illustrating the positional relationship between a fuel inlet and a fuel outlet in a sub-tank. [Figure 8] It is a diagram illustrating the positional relationship between a fuel inlet and a fuel outlet in a sub-tank. [Figure 9] It is a diagram showing a configuration example in which a fuel filter, a sub-tank, and an identification sensor are integrated. [Figure 10] It is a schematic view with a part in cross-section for explaining the fuel flow configuration in a configuration example in which a fuel filter, a sub-tank, and an identification sensor are integrated. [Figure 11] It is a diagram illustrating the arrangement relationship between a fuel flow path and a fuel filter. [Figure 12] It is a diagram illustrating the arrangement relationship between a fuel flow path and a fuel filter. [Figure 13] It is a diagram illustrating the arrangement relationship between a fuel flow path and a fuel filter.

Embodiments for Carrying out the Invention

[0020] 〔Working Machine〕 As shown in FIG. 1, working machines such as a rice transplanter 2, a tractor 3, a backhoe 4, etc., which perform predetermined operations including agricultural operations, are equipped with working devices for performing respective operations. The working devices operate by power supplied from a power source such as an engine 6. Therefore, each working machine includes an engine 6 that outputs power and a fuel tank 8 that stores fuel to be supplied to the engine 6.

[0021] Some engines 6 operate only on specific fuels such as gasoline or diesel. On the other hand, some engines 6 can use multiple types of fuels. For example, an engine 6 can be powered by several types of fuels, including carbon-neutral fuels. Such engines 6 can operate on biofuels, synthetic fuels, and can use several specific types of fuels, including carbon-neutral fuels. Some can also use fuels that are mixtures of these fuels in predetermined proportions (mixing ratios).

[0022] In other words, such an engine 6 can use a specific set of fuels, but cannot use any other fuels. If an unsuitable fuel is supplied to the engine 6, problems such as engine failure will occur. Therefore, it is preferable that a work machine equipped with such an engine 6 be provided with an identification sensor 10 (see Figure 4) that identifies the fuel supplied to the engine 6.

[0023] Engine 6 can use a variety of fuels, including diesel fuel, biofuels such as HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil) and biodiesel fuel, synthetic fuels, and mixtures thereof.

[0024] [Placement location of identification sensor] As shown in Figure 4, the fuel stored in the fuel tank 8 flows through the fuel supply pipe 12, which is connected to the fuel tank 8 and the engine 6. In other words, the fuel supply pipe 12 is connected to the fuel tank 8 and the engine 6, and fuel flows through it. Specifically, the engine 6 is equipped with an engine supply pump 6A, and the fuel supply pipe 12 is connected across the fuel tank 8 and the engine supply pump 6A. The engine supply pump 6A draws fuel stored in the fuel tank 8 and delivers it to the engine 6 via the fuel supply pipe 12.

[0025] The fuel supply pipe 12 includes a supply pipe 13 and a return pipe 14. The supply pipe 13 is the path for supplying fuel from the fuel tank 8 to the engine 6 (engine supply pump 6A). The return pipe 14 is the path for returning fuel from the engine 6 to the fuel tank 8. The supply pipe 13 is equipped with a fuel filter 18 that removes foreign matter from the fuel supplied to the engine 6. In addition to the supply pipe 13 and the return pipe 14, the fuel supply pipe 12 also includes a branch pipe 15 that allows fuel to flow from the fuel filter 18 to the return pipe 14. At least a portion of the fuel from which foreign matter has been removed by the fuel filter 18 is supplied from the fuel filter 18 to the engine 6 (engine supply pump 6A) via the supply pipe 13. The remaining fuel is returned from the fuel filter 18 to the fuel tank 8 via the branch pipe 15 and the return pipe 14.

[0026] The identification sensor 10 identifies at least one of the following: the type of fuel supplied to the engine 6 and its mixing ratio. The type of fuel is whether the fuel is diesel, a biofuel such as HVO or biodiesel, or a synthetic fuel, or it is a specific type of fuel. In other words, the identification sensor 10 identifies whether the fuel is a carbon-neutral fuel or a fuel other than a carbon-neutral fuel such as diesel, and may also identify which type of carbon-neutral fuel it is. Furthermore, if the fuel is a mixture of carbon-neutral fuels (blended fuel), the identification sensor 10 identifies the mixing ratio of the carbon-neutral fuels along with the type of carbon-neutral fuel. Note that carbon-neutral fuels include synthetic fuels, e-fuels, biofuels, and hydrogen, and the identification sensor 10 may identify which of these the fuel is. Here, e-fuel is a fuel produced using hydrogen derived from renewable energy.

[0027] As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the identification sensor 10 includes a measurement unit 24 that acquires (measures and detects) predetermined measurement information 51 related to fuel, and a calculation unit 25 that performs calculations to identify the fuel based on the measurement information 51. In other words, the calculation unit 25 identifies the fuel by performing predetermined calculations based on the measurement information 51 acquired by the measurement unit 24. The calculation unit 25 then outputs identification information 52 as the calculation result (the result of identification).

[0028] As shown in Figure 4, the identification sensor 10 is directly installed in the fuel flow pipe 12. Specifically, the identification sensor 10 is installed in the supply pipe 13, and more specifically, the identification sensor 10 is installed between the fuel tank 8 and the fuel filter 18 in the supply pipe 13. As a result, identification processing is performed on the fuel supplied to the engine 6, enabling accurate identification of the fuel.

[0029] Furthermore, if the identification sensor 10 installed in the supply pipe 13 is damaged, fragments of the identification sensor 10 may enter the engine 6, potentially causing malfunctions such as failure or damage to the engine 6. Therefore, by installing the identification sensor 10 between the fuel tank 8 and the fuel filter 18 in the supply pipe 13 (upstream of the fuel filter 18), even if the identification sensor 10 is damaged, fragments will be caught by the fuel filter 18 (or any other device described later) and prevented from being supplied to the engine 6.

[0030] Furthermore, the fuel returned from engine 6 is heated in engine 6, or tiny bubbles are generated, which may prevent the identification sensor 10 from accurately identifying the fuel. Therefore, by installing the identification sensor 10 in the supply pipe 13, particularly between the fuel tank 8 and the fuel filter 18 in the supply pipe 13, rather than in the return pipe 14, the fuel can be identified with greater accuracy.

[0031] Furthermore, the identification sensor 10 may be installed in the return pipe 14, or it may be installed in the return pipe 14 between the engine 6 and the branch pipe 15 (position 21). With this configuration, when fuel temperature and minute bubbles are not a problem, the degree of freedom in the placement of the identification sensor 10 is increased.

[0032] While both the measuring unit 24 and the calculation unit 25 of the identification sensor 10 may be provided in the fuel flow pipe 12, at least the measuring unit 24 of the identification sensor 10 may be provided in the fuel flow pipe 12, and the calculation unit 25 may be provided at a location different from the fuel flow pipe 12. This allows the measuring unit 24, which needs to be in contact with the fuel, to be provided in the fuel flow pipe 12, and the calculation unit 25 to be provided in the fuel flow pipe 12 or at any other location, thus enabling accurate fuel identification while efficiently positioning the identification sensor 10.

[0033] [Display of identification results] Next, we will explain the configuration for displaying the identification results using Figures 1 to 5.

[0034] The identification sensor 10 outputs the identification result as identification information 52. Specifically, the calculation unit 25 of the identification sensor 10 outputs the identification information 52. Preferably, the work machine is equipped with a display device that acquires and displays the identification information 52 output by the identification sensor 10. The display device may be independently provided on the work machine, but the identification information 52 may also be displayed on the display unit of an information terminal 27 provided on the work machine. The information terminal 27 is detachably mounted on the machine and is a terminal that allows the operator to perform various settings and operations, and to display various information to the operator.

[0035] As described above, the engine 6 according to this embodiment can use multiple types of fuel. That is, there are fuels that can be used in the engine 6 and fuels that cannot be used in the engine 6, and the identification sensor 10 can identify which type of fuel is being supplied to the engine 6. The identification result is displayed on the display unit, allowing the operator to determine whether the appropriate fuel is being used, and if an inappropriate fuel is being used, they can take measures such as stopping the engine 6. As a result, it is possible to prevent the engine 6 from being driven with an inappropriate fuel.

[0036] In this case, the work machine may further include a control unit 29 that controls the operation of the engine 6. The control unit 29 stops the engine 6 when the identification information 52 is in a predetermined state. For example, if the identification information 52 indicates that an inappropriate fuel is being used, the control unit 29 stops the engine 6. Note that while the engine 6 can still be used with some fuels, their use is not recommended. For example, such fuels may put a load on the engine 6. If the identification result indicates such a fuel, the control unit 29 may, instead of stopping the engine 6, limit the output of the engine 6 or issue a predetermined warning. This allows the work machine to use as many types of fuel as possible while suppressing the load on the engine 6.

[0037] If the fuel is a mixture of multiple carbon-neutral fuels, the identification information 52 preferably includes at least one of the types of carbon-neutral fuels to be mixed, the mixing ratio of the carbon-neutral fuels, and the carbon dioxide reduction effect.

[0038] As a result, even in an engine 6 that can use a mixture of multiple carbon-neutral fuels as fuel, the types of carbon-neutral fuels to be mixed and the mixing ratio of the carbon-neutral fuels are displayed, making it possible to determine whether or not the fuel is suitable for use in engine 6. Consequently, it is possible to prevent engine 6 from being driven with an inappropriate fuel. In the case of a single carbon-neutral fuel, the identification information 52 may be configured to include either the type of carbon-neutral fuel or the carbon dioxide reduction effect.

[0039] Furthermore, carbon-neutral fuels generally produce less carbon dioxide emissions than diesel fuel. The degree of reduction in carbon dioxide emissions (reduction effect) varies depending on the type of carbon-neutral fuel. The carbon dioxide reduction effect is one of the reasons for using carbon-neutral fuels. By displaying the carbon dioxide reduction effect, consumers can confirm the significance of using carbon-neutral fuels and easily select fuels with a higher carbon dioxide reduction effect.

[0040] 〔caveat〕 Along with, or instead of displaying, a predetermined warning may be issued depending on the identification result. Below, Figures 1 to 5 will be used to describe a configuration in which a predetermined warning is issued depending on the identification result.

[0041] The work machine may issue a predetermined warning according to the identification result identified by the identification sensor 10. For this purpose, the work machine may further be equipped with a lamp 31 and a speaker 32 as warning units that issue predetermined warnings. Alternatively, the information terminal 27 or display device may also act as a warning unit and issue a warning. The work machine further includes a determination unit 34 that determines whether a warning is necessary according to the identification information 52, and a warning control unit 35 that causes the warning unit to issue a warning according to the determination unit 34's determination. When the determination unit 34 determines that a warning is necessary, the warning control unit 35 causes at least one of the information terminal 27, lamp 31, and speaker 32 to issue a warning. This allows the worker to determine whether the appropriate fuel is being used and to take measures such as stopping the engine 6 if inappropriate fuel is being used. As a result, it is possible to suppress the operation of the engine 6 with inappropriate fuel.

[0042] When a warning is issued using the information terminal 27 or display device, the display unit of the information terminal 27 displays images such as animations corresponding to the warning, or text data such as warning messages. When a warning is issued using the lamp 31, the warning is issued by flashing or lighting the lamp 31. The flashing, lighting, and patterns of these can give meaning to the warning. For example, a flashing lamp 31 can be a warning that unusable fuel is being supplied, and a lit lamp 31 can be a warning that mixed fuel is being supplied. When a warning is issued using the speaker 32, a warning sound or voice message indicating the warning is output from the speaker 32.

[0043] This configuration allows for detailed information about the identification results to be communicated to the operator. For example, it not only indicates whether or not the fuel is usable in engine 6, but also what type of carbon-neutral fuel is being supplied, whether it is a mixed fuel, and if so, which carbon-neutral fuel is being used, as well as the mixing ratio. The carbon dioxide reduction effect may also be reported. Furthermore, if it is a mixed fuel, the determination unit 34 determines that a warning is necessary if the mixing ratio falls outside a predetermined range of mixing ratios usable in engine 6, and the warning control unit 35 issues a predetermined warning when the determination unit 34 determines that a warning is necessary. With this configuration, more detailed information about the supplied fuel is provided, and the operation of engine 6 with inappropriate fuel can be suppressed with greater accuracy.

[0044] [Another embodiment] (1) In the above embodiment, as shown in Figures 4 to 6, the work machine may be equipped with a sub-tank 38 in the fuel flow pipe 12, and the identification sensor 10 may be connected to the sub-tank 38. For example, the sub-tank 38 to which the identification sensor 10 is connected may be placed at any position in the fuel flow pipe 12, but as described above, it is preferable to place it in the supply pipe 13, and more preferably between the fuel tank 8 and the fuel filter 18 in the supply pipe 13. In other words, it is preferable to place the fuel filter 18 (device described later) between the sub-tank 38 (identification sensor 10) and the engine 6.

[0045] The sub-tank 38 has a main body through which fuel passes, a fuel inlet 41 provided in the main body through which fuel flows, and a fuel outlet 42 provided in the main body for discharging fuel in a direction different from that of the fuel inlet 41.

[0046] For example, the sub-tank 38 is equipped with an identification space 39, a fuel inlet 41, and a fuel outlet 42 in its main body. The identification space 39 is a space provided inside the sub-tank 38 and is the region through which the fuel passes. The fuel inlet 41 is the inlet through which the fuel flows into the main body (identification space 39) and is connected to the fuel flow pipe 12, allowing the fuel flowing through the fuel flow pipe 12 to flow into the identification space 39 of the sub-tank 38. The fuel outlet 42 is the outlet for discharging fuel from the main body (identification space 39) and is connected to the fuel flow pipe 12, discharging the fuel that has flowed into the identification space 39 back into the fuel flow pipe 12.

[0047] The identification sensor 10 is inserted into the sub-tank 38 such that at least the measuring unit 24 is located inside the identification space 39 (main body) of the sub-tank 38. In this case, the calculation unit 25 of the identification sensor 10 may be exposed (placed) outside the sub-tank 38, or it may be located inside the sub-tank 38, and the calculation unit 25 may be placed at any position on the work machine. For example, the calculation unit 25 may be provided on a side of the main body (identification space 39) where the fuel inlet 41 and fuel outlet 42 are not provided.

[0048] Thus, a sub-tank 38 having an identification space 39 is provided in the fuel flow pipe 12, and the identification sensor 10 is installed in the sub-tank 38 in such a manner that the measuring unit 24 is inserted into the identification space 39 (main body). The fuel flowing through the fuel flow pipe 12 is temporarily stored in the identification space 39 (main body) of the sub-tank 38, causing its flow velocity to decrease. Therefore, the identification sensor 10, with its measuring unit 24 inserted into the identification space 39, can make sufficient contact with the fuel and accurately identify the fuel. As a result, the fuel can be identified with high accuracy.

[0049] Here, it is preferable that the fuel outlet 42 discharges fuel in a direction different from that of the fuel inlet 41. For example, it is preferable that the fuel outlet 42 discharges fuel from the sub-tank 38 (identification space 39) upward in the direction of gravity G. This allows the fuel to flow against gravity, making it easy to reduce the fuel flow velocity within the identification space 39 (main body). It is also preferable that the fuel inlet 41 allows fuel to flow into the sub-tank 38 (identification space 39) from a direction different from that of the fuel outlet 42. This makes it even easier to reduce the fuel flow velocity within the identification space 39 (main body).

[0050] In particular, as shown in Figure 6, it is preferable that the fuel inlet 41 is located below the sub-tank 38 in the direction of gravity G relative to the fuel outlet 42, with the sub-tank 38 in between. This allows fuel to flow from bottom to top against gravity within the sub-tank 38, temporarily stored in the identification space 39 along the way, and the fuel overflowing from the identification space 39 flows towards the fuel outlet 42. As a result, the measuring unit 24 can come into contact with the fuel that has almost stopped or whose flow velocity has been sufficiently reduced within the identification space 39, and perform fuel identification (measurement of measurement information 51 (see Figure 5)). As a result, fuel can be identified with high accuracy.

[0051] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 7, the fuel inlet 41 may be positioned so as to intersect with the direction of gravity G and the direction in which the identification sensor 10 is inserted. In other words, the fuel inlet 41 is positioned so as to intersect with the direction of fuel flow at the fuel outlet 42 (direction of gravity G) and the direction in which the identification sensor 10 is inserted. More specifically, if the surface on which the identification sensor 10 is installed is the lateral side surface and the surface on which the fuel outlet 42 is installed is the circumferential surface, the fuel inlet 41 is installed on the circumferential surface, not at the location where the fuel outlet 42 is installed, nor on the back surface of the location where the fuel outlet 42 is installed. Even with such a configuration, the measuring unit 24 can come into contact with the fuel whose flow velocity has been sufficiently reduced in the identification space 39, and perform fuel identification (measurement of measurement information 51 (see Figure 5)). As a result, the fuel can be identified with high accuracy.

[0052] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 8, the fuel inlet 41 may be located on the sub-tank 38, facing the identification sensor 10 across the sub-tank 38. In other words, the fuel inlet 41 is located on the back surface of the sub-tank 38 relative to the identification sensor 10, that is, in a position facing the identification sensor 10 on the sub-tank 38. Even with this configuration, the measuring unit 24 can come into contact with the fuel, whose flow velocity has been sufficiently reduced within the identification space 39, and perform fuel identification (measurement of measurement information 51 (see Figure 5)). As a result, the fuel can be identified with high accuracy.

[0053] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 6 to 8, it is preferable that the position where fuel flows in from the fuel inlet 41 to the sub-tank 38 is lower than the position where fuel is discharged from the fuel outlet 42. This allows the fuel to flow from bottom to top against gravity within the sub-tank 38, temporarily storing in the identification space 39 along the way, and the fuel overflowing from the identification space 39 flows towards the fuel outlet 42. As a result, the measuring unit 24 can come into contact with the fuel that has almost stopped or whose flow velocity has been sufficiently reduced within the identification space 39, allowing for fuel identification (measurement of measurement information 51 (see Figure 5)). Consequently, the fuel can be identified with high accuracy.

[0054] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 6 to 8, the identification sensor 10 may be provided on the side surface of the sub-tank 38 when the gravity direction G of the sub-tank 38 is defined as the vertical direction, with the measuring unit 24 inserted into the identification space 39. In other words, the identification sensor 10 is inserted into the sub-tank 38 from a direction intersecting the direction in which the fuel flows (gravity direction G) through the identification space 39. As a result, the measuring unit 24 extends in a direction intersecting the direction in which the fuel flows, allowing the identification sensor 10 to accurately identify the fuel (measurement of measurement information 51 (see Figure 5)).

[0055] (2) In the above alternative embodiment (1), as shown in Figure 9, the fuel filter 18 (device described later) is provided in the sub-tank 38. In other words, the identification sensor 10, the sub-tank 38, and the fuel filter 18 are provided integrally. With this configuration, the identification sensor 10, the sub-tank 38, and the fuel filter 18 can be efficiently arranged while accurately identifying the fuel.

[0056] The fuel filter 18 is connected to the fuel outlet 45. The sub-tank 38, to which the identification sensor 10 and fuel filter 18 are connected, has a fuel inlet 46 and a fuel return port 47. The fuel outlet 45 is connected to a fuel flow pipe 12 (supply pipe 13) that discharges fuel toward the engine 6. The fuel inlet 46 is connected to a fuel flow pipe 12 (supply pipe 13) that allows fuel to flow from the fuel tank 8 into the sub-tank 38. The fuel return port 47 is connected to a fuel flow pipe 12 (branch pipe 15) that allows fuel to flow from the sub-tank 38 back to the fuel tank 8.

[0057] In other words, fuel from the fuel outlet 45 to the engine 6 flows through the supply pipe 13, and fuel from the fuel return port 47 of the sub-tank 38 to the fuel tank 8 flows through the branch pipe 15 and then through the return pipe 14. This configuration allows for efficient fuel distribution.

[0058] The identification sensor 10 is preferably provided on a side surface of the sub-tank 38 that intersects with the direction of gravity G (see Figure 6), similar to the other embodiment (1) (see Figures 6 to 9). For example, the sub-tank 38 and the fuel filter 18 can be connected side by side in the vertical direction (direction of gravity G), and the identification sensor 10 can be connected to the side of the sub-tank 38.

[0059] As shown in Figure 10, the fuel flowing in from the fuel inlet 46 flows into the inlet space 49 of the sub-tank 38, some of which goes to the identification space 39, and the remainder flows into the fuel filter 18 and is stored there. After the fuel that has flowed into the sub-tank 38 is identified by the identification sensor 10, it is discharged from the fuel return port 47 and returns to the fuel tank 8 via the branch pipe 15 and the return pipe 14. The fuel stored in the fuel filter 18 has foreign matter removed and is discharged from the fuel outlet 45 and supplied to the engine 6 via the supply pipe 13.

[0060] With this configuration, fuel flowing in from the fuel inlet 46 is distributed to the identification sensor 10 and the fuel filter 18. Most of the fuel used for identification by the identification sensor 10 in the sub-tank 38 is returned to the fuel tank 8 via the fuel return port 47, and any fuel that is headed for the engine 6 flows to the engine 6 via the fuel filter 18. Therefore, only fuel from which foreign matter has been removed by the fuel filter 18 is supplied to the engine 6. Even if the identification sensor 10 is damaged, its fragments are removed from the fuel by the fuel filter 18, preventing them from reaching the engine 6. As a result, fuel can be identified accurately while suppressing malfunctions in the engine 6.

[0061] The fuel outlet 45 and fuel return port 47 may open in any direction, but it is preferable that they open upward (in the direction of gravity G). This allows the fuel to be discharged against gravity, making it easier to control the flow rate and enabling precise adjustment of the amount of fuel supplied to the engine 6 and the amount of fuel supplied to the identification space 39. As a result, the operation of the engine 6 can be controlled with precision, and the fuel can be identified with precision.

[0062] Furthermore, the identification sensor 10 and the fuel inlet 46 may be placed at any position on the sub-tank 38, or they may be provided on the side of the sub-tank 38. The direction of fuel inflow at the fuel inlet 46 may be in a direction that intersects with the direction in which the measuring section 24 of the identification sensor 10 is inserted into the sub-tank 38, or it may be in a parallel direction. In other words, the positional relationship between the identification sensor 10 and the fuel inlet 46 on the side of the sub-tank 38 may be any positional relationship. Also, the fuel inlet 46 may receive fuel from a direction that intersects with the direction in which fuel flows through the fuel outlet 45 and the fuel inlet 46 (gravity direction G), or it may receive fuel from the same direction.

[0063] (3) In the above alternative embodiment (2), the sub-tank 38 may not be provided. In this case, the identification sensor 10 and the fuel filter 18 can be provided at any position.

[0064] For example, as shown in Figure 11, instead of the sub-tank 38, a base unit 55 is provided, which includes a fuel inlet 46 into which fuel flows and a fuel outlet 45 for discharging fuel. The base unit 55 has a mounting portion 56 to which a fuel filter 18 (a device described later) is attached. In other words, the fuel filter 18 is installed on the base unit 55 via the mounting portion 56.

[0065] The base portion 55 is a component that forms a flow path through which fuel flows in from the fuel inlet 46 and is discharged from the fuel outlet 45. The base portion 55 may also include a fuel filter 18. The identification sensor 10 can be provided on the base portion 55. The fuel flowing through the base portion 55 flows to the fuel filter 18 via the mounting portion 56.

[0066] This configuration allows for the efficient placement of the fuel filter 18 and the identification sensor 10. Furthermore, the fuel filter 18 (device) can be easily attached to the base unit 55. Because the fuel filter 18 is located in the base unit 55 through which fuel flows, the fuel filter 18 can accurately remove foreign matter from the fuel.

[0067] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 12, the base portion 55 may also include a fuel passage portion 58 and a storage portion 59. The fuel passage portion 58 is a member that forms a fuel inlet 46 and a fuel outlet 45, and forms a flow path through which fuel flows in from the fuel inlet 46 and is discharged from the fuel outlet 45. The storage portion 59 is an optional member provided in the fuel passage portion 58 for storing fuel. The mounting portion 56 for attaching the fuel filter 18 to the base portion 55 may also be provided in the fuel passage portion 58. In other words, the fuel filter 18 is provided in the base portion 55 via the mounting portion 56 of the fuel passage portion 58. The positional relationship between the storage portion 59 and the fuel filter 18 is arbitrary. Moreover, in Figures 11 and 12, the fuel filter 18 may not be provided, and only the storage portion 59 may be provided. This makes it possible to have a configuration in which fuel can be identified with the minimum necessary configuration.

[0068] This configuration allows the fuel filter 18 and the identification sensor 10 to be efficiently positioned according to the situation. Furthermore, the fuel filter 18 (device) can be easily attached to the fuel passage section 58. Because the fuel filter 18 is located in the fuel passage section 58 through which fuel flows, the fuel filter 18 can accurately remove foreign matter from the fuel.

[0069] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 13, the base portion 55 may also include a fuel passage portion 58 and a storage portion 59. The fuel passage portion 58 is a member that forms a fuel inlet 46 and a fuel outlet 45, and forms a flow path through which fuel flows in from the fuel inlet 46 and is discharged from the fuel outlet 45. The storage portion 59 is an optional member provided in the fuel passage portion 58 for storing fuel. The mounting portion 56 for attaching the fuel filter 18 to the base portion 55 may be provided in the storage portion 59. In other words, the fuel filter 18 is provided in the base portion 55 via the mounting portion 56 of the fuel passage portion 58.

[0070] This configuration allows the fuel filter 18 and the identification sensor 10 to be efficiently positioned according to the situation. Furthermore, the fuel filter 18 (device) can be easily attached to the storage section 59. Since the fuel filter 18 is located in the storage section 59 where the fuel is stored, the fuel filter 18 can accurately remove foreign matter from the fuel.

[0071] (4) In each of the above embodiments, the identification sensor 10 may be provided in multiple locations, not just one. This allows for more accurate identification of the fuel. Furthermore, the identification sensor 10 is not limited to being provided in the supply pipe 13, but may be provided at one or more arbitrary locations in the fuel flow pipe 12. For example, the identification sensor 10 may be provided in either the supply pipe 13 or the return pipe 14, or both. Also, the identification sensor 10 is not limited to being provided between the fuel tank 8 and the fuel filter 18, but may be provided in either the supply pipe 13 between the fuel tank 8 and the fuel filter 18, or between the fuel filter 18 and the engine 6 (location 22), or both. This allows for more flexibility in the placement of the identification sensor 10 while enabling accurate identification of the fuel.

[0072] (5) In each of the above embodiments, the fuel filter 18 may not be provided in the fuel flow pipe 12, the sub-tank 38, or the base unit 55. Alternatively, the fuel flow pipe 12 may be provided with other equipment that performs a predetermined operation (equipment having a predetermined function) instead of the fuel filter 18. Furthermore, a branch pipe 15 may be provided between the equipment and the return pipe 14, and fuel may flow from the equipment to the return pipe 14 via the branch pipe 15, or a branch pipe 15 may not be provided between the equipment and the return pipe 14.

[0073] This allows for easy identification of fuel while providing equipment that performs predetermined operations in the fuel flow pipe 12. Furthermore, the equipment can suppress foreign matter originating from the identification sensor 10, etc., from flowing with the fuel, thereby preventing foreign matter from entering the engine 6.

[0074] (6) In each of the above embodiments, the implement may be an agricultural implement such as a rice transplanter 2 or tractor 3, or a construction implement, and may also be various engine-driven equipment driven by an engine 6 such as an engine generator or engine compressor. In other words, the implement may be any self-propelled engine-driven equipment such as an agricultural implement or construction implement, or it may be a stationary (portable) engine-driven equipment. [Industrial applicability]

[0075] The present invention can be applied to various engine-driven work machines. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0076] 6 engines 8 Fuel tanks 10 Identification Sensors 13 Supply pipe 14. Feedback tube 15 Branch pipe 18. Fuel filter (equipment) 38 Sub-tank 45 Fuel outlet 46 Fuel inlet 47 Fuel return port 55 Base part 56 Mounting part 58 Fuel passage section 59 Storage section

Claims

1. An engine capable of running on multiple types of fuels, including carbon-neutral fuels, A fuel tank for storing the aforementioned fuel, A supply pipe that supplies the fuel from the fuel tank to the engine, An identification sensor for identifying the carbon-neutral fuel, A base portion including a fuel inlet into which the fuel flows and a fuel outlet for which the fuel is discharged, Equipped with a device having a predetermined function, The base portion is a work machine having a mounting portion for attaching the equipment.

2. The aforementioned base portion is, A fuel passage section forming the fuel inlet and the fuel outlet, The fuel passage section is provided with a storage section for storing the fuel, The work machine according to claim 1, wherein the mounting portion is attached to the fuel passage portion.

3. The aforementioned base portion is, A fuel passage section forming the fuel inlet and the fuel outlet, The fuel passage section is provided with a storage section for storing the fuel, The work machine according to claim 1, wherein the mounting portion is attached to the storage portion.

4. The base portion further has a fuel return port for discharging the fuel back into the fuel tank. A return pipe through which the fuel returns from the engine to the fuel tank, The device further comprises a branch pipe for circulating the fuel from the aforementioned device to the return pipe, The fuel flowing from the fuel outlet toward the engine flows through the supply pipe. The work machine according to claim 1, wherein the fuel flowing from the fuel return port toward the fuel tank flows through the branch pipe and then through the return pipe.

5. The work machine according to claim 1, wherein the identification sensor is provided on a side surface which is a surface intersecting the direction of gravity of the base portion.

6. The work machine according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the device is a fuel filter that removes foreign matter from the fuel.

Images