Transport vehicle

Abstract

To provide a transportation vehicle capable of utilizing water generated by the reaction of hydrogen and oxygen.SOLUTION: A transportation vehicle includes: a dump body; a vehicle body that supports the dump body; a running gear that supports the vehicle body; a power unit that generates power for driving the running gear by reacting hydrogen and oxygen; a water tank that stores the water generated in the power unit; and a sprinkler system that sprays water stored in a water tank to at least partially around the vehicle body.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to transport vehicles. [Background technology]

[0002] A fuel cell vehicle such as that disclosed in Patent Document 1 is known. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-043662 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In fuel cells, the electrochemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen produces electricity for driving the vehicle as the main product and water as a by-product. There is a demand for technology that can effectively utilize the water produced by the electrochemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen.

[0005] The present disclosure aims to utilize water produced by the reaction of hydrogen and oxygen. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] According to the present disclosure, there is provided a transport vehicle comprising a dump body, a chassis supporting the dump body, a running gear supporting the chassis, a power unit that generates power for driving the running gear by reacting hydrogen and oxygen, a water storage tank that stores water produced in the power unit, and a sprinkler device that sprays water stored in the water storage tank to sprinkle water over at least a portion of the periphery of the chassis. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present disclosure, water produced by the reaction of hydrogen and oxygen is used to water the work site. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically showing a work site of a transport vehicle according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically illustrating a work site management system according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a perspective view schematically showing the transporter vehicle according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a configuration diagram showing a transporter vehicle according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a functional block diagram showing a water sprinkling system according to an embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram schematically showing a watering area according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a control method for the water sprinkler system according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a method for driving the water sprinkler system according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a block diagram illustrating a computer system according to an embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a configuration diagram showing a transporter vehicle according to another embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a configuration diagram showing a transporter vehicle according to another embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a diagram schematically showing a transporter vehicle according to another embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings, but the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments. The components of the embodiments described below can be combined as appropriate. In addition, some components may not be used.

[0010] [Worksite] FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically illustrating a work site 1 for a transport vehicle 2 according to an embodiment. The work site 1 is exemplified by a mine or a quarry. A mine refers to a place or business where minerals are mined. A quarry refers to a place or business where stone is mined. At the work site 1, multiple transport vehicles 2 are in operation.

[0011] The transport vehicle 2 is a dump truck that travels through the work site 1 to transport a load. An example of the load transported by the transport vehicle 2 is an excavated material excavated at the work site 1.

[0012] The transport vehicle 2 may be an unmanned dump truck that operates without being driven by a driver, or may be a manned dump truck that operates based on driving operations by a driver. In the embodiment, the transport vehicle 2 is a manned dump truck.

[0013] In this embodiment, the work site 1 is a mine. Examples of mines include a metal mine where metals are mined, a non-metal mine where limestone is mined, and a coal mine where coal is mined.

[0014] A travel area 4 is set at the work site 1. The travel area 4 refers to an area in which the transport vehicle 2 can travel. The travel area 4 includes a loading area 5, a discharge area 6, a parking area 7, a fuel station 8, a travel route 9, and an intersection 10.

[0015] The loading site 5 refers to an area where loading work is carried out to load cargo onto the transport vehicle 2. A loader 11 operates at the loading site 5. An example of the loader 11 is a hydraulic excavator.

[0016] The soil unloading site 6 refers to an area where soil unloading work is carried out to unload cargo from the transport vehicle 2. A crusher 12 is provided at the soil unloading site 6.

[0017] The parking lot 7 refers to the area where the transport vehicle 2 is parked.

[0018] The fuel station 8 refers to an area where the transport vehicle 2 is refueled.

[0019] The travel path 9 refers to an area where the transport vehicle 2 travels toward at least one of the loading area 5, the dumping area 6, the parking area 7, and the fuel station 8. The travel path 9 is provided to connect at least the loading area 5 and the dumping area 6. In the embodiment, the travel path 9 connects to each of the loading area 5, the dumping area 6, the parking area 7, and the fuel station 8.

[0020] An intersection 10 refers to an area where multiple travel lanes 9 intersect or an area where one travel lanes 9 branches into multiple travel lanes 9.

[0021] [Management system] FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically showing a management system 13 of the work site 1 according to the embodiment.

[0022] The management system 13 includes a management device 14 and a communication system 15. The management device 14 is installed in a control facility 16 at the work site 1. The management device 14 includes a computer system. The transport vehicle 2 has a control device 3. The control device 3 includes a computer system. The communication system 15 includes a wireless communication device 15A connected to the management device 14 and a wireless communication device 15B connected to the control device 3. The management device 14 and the control device 3 of the transport vehicle 2 communicate wirelessly via the communication system 15.

[0023] [Transport vehicle] 3 is a perspective view schematically showing a transporter vehicle 2 according to an embodiment. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the transporter vehicle 2 includes a vessel 21, a vehicle body 22, a traveling device 23, a power unit 24, a water storage tank 25, a water sprayer 26, a wireless communication device 15B, and a control device 3.

[0024] The vessel (dump body) 21 is a member on which a load is loaded. At least a portion of the vessel 21 is disposed above the vehicle body 22. The vessel 21 performs a dumping operation and a lowering operation. By the dumping operation and the lowering operation, the vessel 21 is adjusted to a dumping position and a loaded position. The dumping position refers to a position in which the vessel 21 is raised. The loaded position refers to a position in which the vessel 21 is lowered.

[0025] The dumping operation refers to an operation of moving the vessel 21 away from the vehicle body 22 and tilting it in the dumping direction. The dumping direction is toward the rear of the vehicle body 22. In the embodiment, the dumping operation includes lifting the front end of the vessel 21 and tilting the vessel 21 rearward. Due to the dumping operation, the loading surface of the vessel 21 tilts downward toward the rear.

[0026] The lowering operation refers to an operation of bringing the vessel 21 closer to the vehicle body 22. In the embodiment, the lowering operation includes lowering the front end of the vessel 21.

[0027] When earth removal work is performed, the vessel 21 performs a dumping operation to change from a loaded posture to a dump posture. If a load is loaded on the vessel 21, the load is discharged rearward from the rear end of the vessel 21 by the dumping operation. When loading work is performed, the vessel 21 is adjusted to the loaded posture.

[0028] The vehicle body 22 includes a vehicle body frame. The vehicle body 22 supports the vessel 21. The vehicle body 22 is supported by a traveling device 23. The power unit 24, the water storage tank 25, the water sprayer 26, the wireless communication device 15B, and the control device 3 are each mounted on the vehicle body 22.

[0029] The traveling device 23 supports the vehicle body 22. The traveling device 23 causes the transporter vehicle 2 to travel. The traveling device 23 causes the transporter vehicle 2 to move forward or backward. At least a portion of the traveling device 23 is disposed below the vehicle body 22. The traveling device 23 has wheels 27 and tires 28.

[0030] Tires 28 are attached to wheels 27. Wheels 27 include front wheels 27F and rear wheels 27R. Tires 28 include front tires 28F attached to front wheels 27F and rear tires 28R attached to rear wheels 27R. Front wheels 27F are steered wheels. Rear wheels 27R are drive wheels.

[0031] The power unit 24 reacts hydrogen with oxygen to generate power for driving the traveling device 23. Driving the traveling device 23 includes rotating the rear wheel 27R, which is a driving wheel.

[0032] In this embodiment, the power unit 24 includes a fuel cell 29 that generates electricity by electrochemically reacting hydrogen and oxygen, a condenser 30 that condenses water vapor produced in the fuel cell 29, and a travel drive motor 31 that generates power for driving the travel unit 23 based on the electricity generated by the fuel cell 29. An outside air inlet 32 ​​is provided at the front of the vehicle body 22. The fuel cell 29 of the power unit 24 generates electricity using oxygen contained in the air introduced through the outside air inlet 32.

[0033] The water storage tank 25 stores the water produced in the power plant 24. In the fuel cell 29, hydrogen and oxygen undergo an electrochemical reaction to produce water vapor, and in the condenser 30, the water vapor produced in the fuel cell 29 is condensed to produce water. The water produced in the condenser 30 is stored in the water storage tank 25.

[0034] The water sprayer 26 is a water sprinkler device that sprays water stored in the water storage tank 25 to sprinkle water over at least a portion of the periphery of the vehicle body 22. The water sprayer 26 is disposed at the front of the vehicle body 22. The water sprayer 26 sprays water forward in the direction of travel of the vehicle body 22.

[0035] In this embodiment, at least three water sprayers 26 are provided. The three water sprayers 26 include water sprayer 26C, water sprayer 26L, and water sprayer 26R, which are arranged at intervals in the vehicle width direction of the vehicle body 22. Water sprayer 26C is arranged in the center of the vehicle width direction of the vehicle body 22. Water sprayer 26L is arranged to the left of water sprayer 26C. Water sprayer 26R is arranged to the right of water sprayer 26C. Note that the number of water sprayers 26 is not limited to three as in this embodiment. There may be one or two water sprayers 26, or four or more water sprayers 26. Furthermore, the positions at which the water sprayers 26 are arranged are not particularly limited, and the water sprayers 26 may be installed in various positions on the vehicle body 22.

[0036] In the vehicle width direction of the vehicle body 22, the water sprayer 26C and at least a part of the outside air inlet 32 ​​are located at the same position. The water sprayer 26C sprays water in front of the outside air inlet 32.

[0037] The water sprayer 26L and at least a portion of the left front wheel 27F are located at the same position in the width direction of the vehicle body 22. The water sprayer 26L sprays water in front of the left front wheel 27F.

[0038] The water sprayer 26R and at least a portion of the right front wheel 27F are located at the same position in the width direction of the vehicle body 22. The water sprayer 26R sprays water in front of the right front wheel 27F.

[0039] The water sprayers 26 spray water in front of the traveling device 23 when the transport vehicle 2 moves forward. The water sprayer 26L sprays water in front of the left front wheel 27F, and the water sprayer 26R sprays water in front of the right front wheel 27F. This wets the road surface in front of the traveling device 23, and prevents dust or sand from spreading when the transport vehicle 2 moves.

[0040] Furthermore, the fuel cell 29 has an electrolyte membrane that allows ion conduction between hydrogen and oxygen. It is said that an appropriate humidity level is required for the electrolyte membrane. The water spray 26C sprays water in front of the outside air inlet 32. This allows highly humid air to be supplied to the fuel cell 29 from the outside air inlet 32. Furthermore, the humidifier in the fuel cell 29 can be simplified or omitted.

[0041] 4 is a configuration diagram showing a transport vehicle 2 according to an embodiment. The transport vehicle 2 includes a monitor 54, an input unit 55, an accelerator / brake pedal 56, a shift lever 57, a lift lever 58, an energy supply system 17, a vehicle drive system 18, a watering system 19, and a control device 3.

[0042] The monitor 54, input unit 55, accelerator / brake pedal 56, shift lever 57, and lift lever 58 are each disposed in the driver's cab of the transporter vehicle 2. The monitor 54 displays display data. The input unit 55 generates an input signal when operated by the driver. When the driver operates the accelerator / brake pedal 56, the traveling device 23 accelerates or decelerates. When the driver operates the shift lever 57, the speed stage of the traveling device 23 is changed or the traveling device 23 is switched between forward and reverse. When the driver operates the lift lever 58, the vessel 21 is dumped or lowered.

[0043] The energy supply system 17 has a hydrogen tank 33, a hydrogen supply device 34, a fuel cell 29, a battery 35, a voltage conversion device 36, and a condenser 30. The hydrogen supply device 34 supplies hydrogen from the hydrogen tank 33 to the fuel cell 29. Air is supplied to the fuel cell 29 through an outside air inlet 32. The fuel cell 29 generates electricity by causing an electrochemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen. The battery 35 stores the electricity generated in the fuel cell 29. The voltage conversion device 36 boosts the voltage of the fuel cell 29 or the battery 35. The condenser 30 condenses water vapor produced in the fuel cell 29 to produce water.

[0044] The vehicle drive system 18 includes an inverter 37, a pump drive motor 38, a hydraulic pump 39, a control valve 40, a hoist cylinder 41, an inverter 42, a traveling drive motor 31, a reduction gear mechanism 43, and wheels 27. The inverter 37 converts DC current from a voltage converter 36 into three-phase AC current and supplies it to the pump drive motor 38. The pump drive motor 38 drives the hydraulic pump 39. Hydraulic oil discharged from the hydraulic pump 39 is supplied to the hoist cylinder 41 via a control valve 40. The hoist cylinder 41 is actuated by the hydraulic oil being supplied to the hoist cylinder 41. The hoist cylinder 41 performs a dumping or lowering motion of the vessel 21. The inverter 42 converts DC current from the voltage converter 36 into three-phase AC current and supplies it to the traveling drive motor 31. The rotational force generated by the traveling drive motor 31 is transmitted to the wheels 27 via the reduction gear mechanism 43. The rotation of the wheels 27 causes the traveling device 23 to travel.

[0045] The sprinkler system 19 includes a water storage tank 25, a sprinkler spray 26, a sprinkler pump 44 that supplies water stored in the water storage tank 25 to the sprinkler spray 26, a pipe 45 that connects the water storage tank 25 and the sprinkler pump 44, and a pipe 46 that connects the sprinkler pump 44 and the sprinkler spray 26. Water generated in the condenser 30 is stored in the water storage tank 25. When the sprinkler pump 44 is driven, the water stored in the water storage tank 25 is supplied to the sprinkler spray 26 via the pipe 45, the sprinkler pump 44, and the pipe 46. The sprinkler spray 26 sprays the water supplied from the water storage tank 25.

[0046] The control device 3 has an energy control unit 47, a vehicle operation control unit 48, a water sprinkling control unit 49, a host vehicle information storage unit 50, a terrain information storage unit 51, a controlled other vehicle information storage unit 52, and a monitor control unit 53. The energy control unit 47 controls the energy supply system 17. The vehicle operation control unit 48 controls the vehicle drive system 18. The water sprinkling control unit 49 controls the water sprinkling system 19. In the embodiment, when the driver operates the input unit 55, the input unit 55 generates a water sprinkling command signal as an input signal. In the manual mode, the water sprinkling control unit 49 outputs a control command to spray water from the water sprinkler sprayer 26 based on the water sprinkling command signal from the input unit 55. The host vehicle information storage unit 50 stores information related to the host transport vehicle 2 (host vehicle) on which the host vehicle information storage unit 50 is installed. The terrain information storage unit 51 stores terrain information of the work site. The terrain information of the work site includes, for example, the inclination angle (gradient) of the road surface of the travel path 9. The controlled other vehicle information storage unit 52 stores information transmitted from the management device 14. The controlled other vehicle information storage unit 52 also stores information transmitted from other transport vehicles 2 (other vehicles). The monitor control unit 53 controls the monitor 54.

[0047] [Watering system] 5 is a functional block diagram showing a water sprinkling system 59 according to an embodiment. The water sprinkling system 59 includes a management device 14, an energy control unit 47, a vehicle operation control unit 48, a water sprinkling control unit 49, a host vehicle information storage unit 50, a topographical information storage unit 51, a controlled other vehicle information storage unit 52, a monitor control unit 53, and a water sprinkling determination sensor 60.

[0048] The water sprinkler determination sensor 60 includes a position sensor 61, a water volume sensor 62, a dust sensor 63, a tilt angle sensor 64, a slip sensor 65, a weather sensor 66, a temperature sensor 67, and a humidity sensor 68. The detection signal (water sprinkler determination detection signal) of the water sprinkler determination sensor 60 is stored in the host vehicle information storage unit 50. The detection signal (water sprinkler determination detection signal) of the water sprinkler determination sensor 60 is used to determine whether or not water is to be sprinkled from the water sprinkler sprayer 26 and to control the amount of water sprinkled from the water sprinkler sprayer 26. Note that the water sprinkler determination sensor 60 does not need to include all of the position sensor 61, the water volume sensor 62, the dust sensor 63, the tilt angle sensor 64, the slip sensor 65, the weather sensor 66, the temperature sensor 67, and the humidity sensor 68, and it is sufficient if it includes sensors necessary for the control executed by the water sprinkler system 59.

[0049] The position sensor 61 detects the position of the delivery vehicle 2 on which the position sensor 61 is mounted. In the embodiment, the position sensor 61 detects the position of the delivery vehicle 2 using a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS). The position sensor 61 includes a GNSS receiver.

[0050] The water amount sensor 62 detects the amount of water in the water storage tank 25. The water amount sensor 62 is exemplified by a water level sensor or a weight sensor.

[0051] The dust sensor 63 detects dust at the work site 1. The dust at the work site 1 includes sand and dust. Examples of the dust sensor 63 include a laser sensor (LIDAR: Light Detection and Ranging) or a radar sensor (RADAR: Radio Detection and Ranging). The dust sensor 63 may also include a camera.

[0052] The inclination angle sensor 64 detects the inclination angle of the road surface at the work site 1. The inclination angle sensor 64 detects the inclination angle of the road surface at the work site 1 by detecting the inclination angle of the transport vehicle 2. Examples of the inclination angle sensor 64 include an acceleration sensor, a gyro sensor, and an inertial measurement unit (IMU).

[0053] The slip sensor 65 detects the amount of slip of the rear tire 28R mounted on the rear wheel 27R, which is the drive wheel of the traveling device 23. An encoder or a resolver is exemplified as the slip sensor 65. Note that the slip sensor 65 may be disposed in the vehicle drivetrain 18, and the amount of slip may be calculated by calculation processing of the vehicle operation control unit 48.

[0054] The weather sensor 66 detects the weather at the work site 1. An example of the weather sensor 66 is a rain gauge.

[0055] The temperature sensor 67 detects the temperature of the work site 1. In the embodiment, the temperature sensor 67 detects the temperature of the road surface of the work site 1. The temperature sensor 67 may be disposed in the energy supply system 17, and the temperature of the work site 1 may be calculated by calculation processing of the energy control unit 47.

[0056] The humidity sensor 68 detects the humidity at the work site 1. The humidity sensor 68 may be disposed in the energy supply system 17, and the temperature at the work site 1 may be calculated by the calculation processing of the energy control unit 47.

[0057] The water sprinkler control unit 49 outputs a control command to the water sprinkler system 19 so that the water sprinkler sprayer 26 sprinkles water in a water sprinkler area set at the work site 1. The water sprinkler area is a partitioned area obtained by dividing the entire area of ​​the work site 1 into a square, rectangular, circular, or regular hexagonal shape. In this embodiment, the water sprinkler area is referred to as a water sprinkler area, but it does not need to include range information. In other words, the water sprinkler area may be a water sprinkler location that includes information about the location of the target to be watered. Information related to the water sprinkler area is transmitted from the management device 14 to the controlled other vehicle information storage unit 52. The controlled other vehicle information storage unit 52 stores the information related to the water sprinkler area of ​​the work site 1 transmitted from the management device 14.

[0058] The sprinkler control unit 49 outputs a control command to cause the sprinkler sprayer 26 to spray water on the sprinkler area based on the detection signal of the position sensor 61 and the position of the sprinkler area stored in the controlled other vehicle information storage unit 52.

[0059] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a watering area according to an embodiment. A watering allowance level is set for each of a plurality of watering areas. A watering area with a watering allowance level of 1 is an area where watering is permitted at all times. Examples of watering areas with a watering allowance level of 1 include locations with drainage ditches or parking areas 7. A watering area with a watering allowance level of 2 is an area where a watering allowance amount is set. Examples of watering areas with a watering allowance level of 2 are road surfaces with an inclination angle of less than a predetermined value, the surface of a normal road 9, and areas where dust generation needs to be suppressed. In this embodiment, a watering allowance amount for each area is set for watering areas with a watering allowance level of 2 in accordance with the management and operation policy of the work site 1. The allowable watering amount is planned based on, for example, the number and operation rate of fuel cell-equipped transport vehicles 2 present at the work site 1, seasonal and weather information, etc. A watering area with a watering allowance level of 3 is an area where watering is not permitted. Examples of watering areas with [Watering Tolerance Level 3] include road surfaces with steep slopes, road surfaces that turn to mud when wet, road surfaces that are slippery due to steel plate laying, loading areas 5, soil disposal areas 6, and places where the impact of watering on the natural environment is strictly limited. The watering tolerance level is set in advance according to the conditions of the work site 1. The watering control unit 49 controls the amount of water sprayed from the watering sprays 26 based on the watering tolerance level.

[0060] In the following description, the allowable water spray levels set for each of the multiple water spray areas will be referred to as the allowable water spray amount level map, as appropriate.

[0061] In an embodiment, the watering control unit 49 controls the amount of water sprayed from the watering spray 26 based not only on the watering amount tolerance level map, but also on watering history information indicating the areas and amounts of watering that have already been watered, and the detection signal of the watering judgment sensor 60.

[0062] The management device 14 transmits a water sprinkling amount tolerance level map to the controlled other vehicle information storage unit 52. The controlled other vehicle information storage unit 52 stores not only the water sprinkling amount tolerance level map transmitted from the management device 14, but also water sprinkling history information indicating the areas and amounts of water sprinkled that have already been watered by other transport vehicles 2. The water sprinkling history information may be transmitted from other transport vehicles 2 to the transport vehicle 2, or may be transmitted from other transport vehicles 2 to the transport vehicle 2 via the management device 14.

[0063] As shown in FIG. 5, the water sprinkler control unit 49 includes an information integration unit 71, a contribution application unit 72, a water sprinkler amount allowable level map correction unit 73, a water sprinkler permission signal generation unit 74, and a water sprinkler device drive command unit 75.

[0064] The information integration unit 71 calculates the required amount of water to be sprayed based on preset calculation rules using the topographical information of the work site 1 stored in the topographical information storage unit 51, the water spray amount tolerance level map stored in the controlled other vehicle information storage unit 52, the water spraying record information of the other transport vehicles 2 stored in the controlled other vehicle information storage unit 52, and the detection signal of the water spraying judgment sensor 60 stored in the own vehicle information storage unit 50, and integrates the information into information that can be compared and judged. An example of the calculation rule is to reduce the amount of water to be sprayed if it is determined that the road surface inclination angle is large based on the topographical information of the work site 1 stored in the topographical information storage unit 51 or the detection signal of the inclination angle sensor 64, and to increase the amount of water to be sprayed if it is determined that the road surface inclination angle is small. Furthermore, based on the water spraying record information of the other transport vehicles 2 stored in the controlled other vehicle information storage unit 52, it is determined that the other transport vehicles 2 have already sprayed a large amount of water, and to increase the amount of water to be sprayed if it is determined that the other transport vehicles 2 have not sprayed water. Furthermore, if it is determined based on the detection signal from the water volume sensor 62 that the water volume in the water storage tank 25 is low, the amount of water sprinkled is reduced; if it is determined based on the detection signal from the dust sensor 63 that the amount of dust at the work site 1 ... high, the amount of water sprinkled is increased. Furthermore, if it is determined based on the detection signal from the slip sensor 65 that the amount of slip of the rear tire 28R is high, the amount of water sprinkled is reduced; if it is determined that the amount of slip of the rear tire 28R is low, the amount of water sprinkled is increased. Furthermore, if it is determined based on the detection signal from the weather sensor 66 that it is rainy, the amount of water sprinkled is reduced; if it is determined that it is sunny, the amount of water sprinkled is increased. Furthermore, if it is determined based on the detection signal from the temperature sensor 67 that the road surface temperature is low, the amount of water sprinkled is reduced; if it is determined that the road surface temperature is high, the amount of water sprinkled is increased. Furthermore, if it is determined based on the detection signal from the humidity sensor 68 that the humidity is high, the amount of water sprinkled is reduced; if it is determined that the humidity is low, the amount of water sprinkled is increased.

[0065] The contribution rate application unit 72 applies the contribution rate related to the necessity of watering from the watering sprayer 26 and the amount of water to be sprayed from the watering sprayer 26 to the requested amount of watering integrated by the information integration unit 71. As an example of the contribution rate, the contribution rate of the requested amount of watering based on information related to the safety of the work site 1, such as the detection signal from the tilt angle sensor 64 or the slip sensor 65, is set high. Furthermore, if a long time has elapsed since the timing of data acquisition of the watering performance information of other transport vehicles 2 stored in the controlled other vehicle information storage unit 52, the contribution rate is set low, and if the elapsed time is short, the contribution rate is set high. If the contribution rate is low, the correlation between the requested amount of watering calculated by the information integration unit 71 and the allowable amount of watering is weakened. If the contribution rate is high, the correlation between the requested amount of watering calculated by the information integration unit 71 and the allowable amount of watering is strengthened.

[0066] The allowable watering amount level map correction unit 73 corrects the allowable watering amount level map based on the contribution applied by the contribution application unit 72. For example, the allowable watering amount level map correction unit 73 increases the allowable watering amount for a watering area with a [allowable watering level 2] that requires a large amount of watering, or reduces or sets to zero the allowable watering amount for a watering area with a [allowable watering level 2] that does not require watering.

[0067] The water sprinkler permission signal generating unit 74 estimates the predicted vehicle passage position from the topographical information in the topographical information memory unit 51, the position sensor 61, and the vehicle speed information from the vehicle operation control unit 48, and generates a water sprinkler permission signal to the water sprinkler device drive command unit 75 based on the corrected water sprinkler amount tolerance level map and the water sprinkler amount tolerance level map from the controlled other vehicle information memory unit 52.

[0068] The corrected water spray amount tolerance level map and cumulative water spray amount are stored in the host vehicle information storage unit 50. The monitor control unit 53 displays the corrected water spray amount tolerance level map on the monitor 54. The host vehicle information storage unit 50 transmits the corrected water spray amount tolerance level map and cumulative water spray amount to the management device 14.

[0069] [How to control a sprinkler system] 7 is a flowchart showing a control method for the water sprinkling system 59 according to the embodiment. The water sprinkling permission signal generating unit 74 calculates a predicted vehicle passage position, which is a position where water will be sprinkled, from the information in the topographical information storage unit 51, the position sensor 61, and the vehicle speed information of the transport vehicle 2 (step SA1).

[0070] A reference position on the water sprinkling amount tolerance level map is determined based on the predicted vehicle passing position. There is a possibility that the position of the transport vehicle 2 and the position where the sprinkled water will be scattered may differ due to travel. The position where the water will be sprinkled can be calculated with high accuracy from the information in the topographical information storage unit 51, the position sensor 61, and the vehicle speed information of the transport vehicle 2. The predicted vehicle passing position may also be calculated from the information in the topographical information storage unit 51 and the position sensor 61.

[0071] The controlled other vehicle information storage unit 52 receives the water sprinkler amount tolerance level map from the management device 14 (step SA2). The water sprinkler permission signal generation unit 74 receives the modified water sprinkler amount tolerance level map from the water sprinkler amount tolerance level map modification unit 73 and the water sprinkler amount tolerance level map from the controlled other vehicle information storage unit 52.

[0072] The water spray permission signal generating unit 74 determines whether the predicted vehicle passage position is in a water spray area of ​​[water spray tolerance level 1] using the corrected water spray tolerance level map from the water spray tolerance level map correcting unit 73 and the water spray tolerance level map from the controlled other vehicle information memory unit 52 (step SA3).

[0073] In step SA3, if it is determined that the predicted vehicle passage position is in a watering area of ​​[Watering Allowance Level 1] (step SA3: Yes), the watering permission signal generating unit 74 calculates the water tank capacity indicating the amount of water stored in the water tank 25 based on the detection signal from the water volume sensor 62 (step SA4).

[0074] The water sprinkling permission signal generating unit 74 determines whether the water storage tank capacity is equal to or greater than the threshold value (step SA5).

[0075] If it is determined in step SA5 that the water storage tank capacity is equal to or greater than the threshold value (step SA5: Yes), the water sprinkling permission signal generator 74 transmits a water sprinkling permission signal. In addition, the monitor controller 53 causes the monitor 54 to display display data indicating that water sprinkling is permitted (step SA6).

[0076] The water spray permission signal generating unit 74 calculates the accumulated water spray amount (step SA7).

[0077] The water sprinkling permission signal generating unit 74 calculates the current vehicle position based on the information from the host vehicle information storage unit 50 and the vehicle speed information from the vehicle operation control unit 48 (step SA8).

[0078] The watering permission signal generating unit 74 checks the topographical information in the topographical information storage unit 51 and checks whether or not the watering area has been changed based on the position sensor 61 (step SA9).

[0079] In step SA9, if it is determined that there has been no change in the watering area (step SA9: Yes), the process returns to step SA4.

[0080] If it is determined in step SA3 that the predicted vehicle passage position is not located in a watering area of ​​[Watering Permit Level 1] (step SA3: No), the watering permission signal generating unit 74 determines whether the predicted vehicle passage position is located in a watering area of ​​[Watering Permit Level 2] (step SA10).

[0081] In step SA10, if it is determined that the predicted vehicle passage position is in a watering area of ​​[Watering Allowance Level 2] (step SA10: Yes), the watering permission signal generator 74 calculates the water storage tank capacity based on the detection signal of the water volume sensor 62. The initial value of the water storage tank capacity is latched to calculate the cumulative watering amount (step SA11).

[0082] The water spray permission signal generating unit 74 determines whether the water storage tank capacity is equal to or greater than a threshold value (step SA12).

[0083] If it is determined in step SA12 that the water storage tank capacity is equal to or greater than the threshold value (step SA12: Yes), the water sprinkling permission signal generating unit 74 determines whether the accumulated water sprinkling amount is equal to or less than the allowable water sprinkling amount (step SA13).

[0084] If it is determined in step SA13 that the cumulative water sprinkling amount is equal to or less than the allowable water sprinkling amount (step SA13: Yes), the water sprinkling permission signal generator 74 transmits a water sprinkling permission signal. In addition, the monitor controller 53 causes the monitor 54 to display display data indicating that water sprinkling is permitted (step SA14).

[0085] The water spray permission signal generating unit 74 calculates the accumulated water spray amount (step SA15).

[0086] The water sprinkling permission signal generating unit 74 calculates the current vehicle position based on the information from the host vehicle information storage unit 50 and the vehicle speed information from the vehicle operation control unit 48 (step SA16).

[0087] The watering permission signal generating unit 74 checks the topographical information in the topographical information storage unit 51 and checks whether or not the watering area has been changed based on the position sensor 61 (step SA17).

[0088] In step SA17, if it is determined that there has been no change in the watering area (step SA17: Yes), the process returns to step SA11.

[0089] If it is determined in step SA5 that the water storage tank capacity is not equal to or greater than the threshold value (step SA5: No), if it is determined in step SA10 that the predicted vehicle passage position is not in a watering area of ​​[Watering Allowable Level 2] (step SA10: No), if it is determined in step SA12 that the water storage tank capacity is not equal to or greater than the threshold value (step SA12: No), or if it is determined in step SA13 that the cumulative watering amount is not equal to or less than the allowable watering amount (step SA13: No), the watering permission signal generator 74 stops the watering permission signal. In addition, the monitor control unit 53 causes the monitor 54 to display display data indicating that watering is not allowed (step SA18).

[0090] The watering permission signal generating unit 74 transmits the accumulated amount of watering for the watering area to the host vehicle information storage unit 50 (step SA19).

[0091] [How the sprinkler system operates] 8 is a flowchart showing a method for driving the sprinkler system 59 according to the embodiment. The sprinkler drive command unit 75 determines whether the sprinkler permission signal generation unit 74 is transmitting a sprinkler permission signal (step SB1).

[0092] In step SB1, if it is determined that the sprinkler permission signal is being transmitted (step SB1: Yes), the sprinkler drive command unit 75 determines whether the sprinkler command mode is automatic (step SB2).

[0093] If it is determined in step SB2 that the sprinkler command mode is not automatic (step SB2: No), sprinkler drive command unit 75 determines whether the sprinkler command switch of input unit 55 is ON (step SB3).

[0094] If it is determined in step SB2 that the sprinkler command mode is auto (step SB2: Yes), or if it is determined in step SB3 that the sprinkler command switch is ON (step SB3: Yes), the sprinkler device drive command unit 75 adjusts the opening and closing of the valve of the sprinkler spray 26 (step SB4).

[0095] Furthermore, the sprinkler drive command unit 75 drives the sprinkler pump 44 and adjusts the capacity of the sprinkler pump 44 (step SB5), and the process returns to step SB1.

[0096] If it is determined in step SB1 that the sprinkler permission signal has not been sent (step SB1: No), or if it is determined in step SB3 that the sprinkler command switch is not ON (step SB3: No), the sprinkler device drive command unit 75 stops the sprinkler pump 44 (step SB6).

[0097] Furthermore, the sprinkler drive command unit 75 closes the valve of the sprinkler spray 26 (step SB7).

[0098] The water sprayer 26 sprays water on the water spray area based on the control of the water spray device drive command unit 75.

[0099] The water sprayer 26 may spray water in an automatic mode based on a water spray permission signal from the water spray permission signal generation unit 74. The water sprayer 26 may spray water in a manual mode based on the water spray permission signal from the water spray permission signal generation unit 74 and an input signal from the input unit 55.

[0100] [Computer System] FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing a computer system 1000 according to an embodiment. The management device 14 and the control device 3 described above each include a computer system 1000. The computer system 1000 includes a processor 1001 such as a central processing unit (CPU), a main memory 1002 including a nonvolatile memory such as a read-only memory (ROM) and a volatile memory such as a random access memory (RAM), a storage 1003, and an interface 1004 including an input / output circuit. The functions of the management device 14 and the control device 3 described above are stored in the storage 1003 as computer programs. The processor 1001 reads the computer programs from the storage 1003, loads them into the main memory 1002, and executes the above-described processing in accordance with the computer programs. The computer programs may be distributed to the computer system 1000 via a network.

[0101] According to the above-described embodiment, the computer program or computer system 1000 can perform the following operations: electrochemically reacting hydrogen and oxygen to generate power for driving the running gear 23 of the transport vehicle 2; setting up a watering area at the work site 1; and spraying water produced in the electrochemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen from the watering spray 26 so that the watering area is watered.

[0102] In addition, the computer program or computer system 1000 can detect the position of the transport vehicle 2 and spray water from the water spray 26 based on the position of the transport vehicle 2 and the position of the watering area, according to the above-mentioned embodiment.

[0103] Furthermore, the computer program or computer system 1000 can execute the following steps according to the above-described embodiment: setting an acceptable level of water spray amount for each of a plurality of water spray areas; and controlling the amount of water sprayed from the water sprayer 26 based on the acceptable level.

[0104] In addition, the computer program or computer system 1000 can execute the control of the amount of water sprayed from the water spray spray 26 based on water spray history information indicating at least one of the water spray areas and the amount of water sprayed that have already been watered, and the detection signal of the water spray judgment sensor 60, in accordance with the above-mentioned embodiment.

[0105] Furthermore, the computer program or the computer system 1000 can execute the process of displaying the watering area on the monitor 54 mounted on the transport vehicle 2 according to the above-described embodiment.

[0106] Furthermore, the computer program or computer system 1000 can execute the process of spraying water from the water sprayer 26 based on an input signal from the input unit 55 mounted on the transport vehicle 2 according to the above-described embodiment.

[0107] [effect] As described above, according to the embodiment, the transport vehicle 2 comprises a vessel 21, a body 22 that supports the vessel 21, a running device 23 that supports the body 22, a power unit 24 that generates power to drive the running device 23 by reacting hydrogen and oxygen, a water storage tank 25 that stores water produced in the power unit 24, and a water sprayer 26 that sprays the water stored in the water storage tank 25 to spray water over at least a portion of the periphery of the body 22.

[0108] As a result, water generated by the electrochemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen is used to water the work site 1. In addition, by spraying water in a predetermined watering area at the work site 1, the spread of dust or sand at the work site 1 is suppressed.

[0109] The water sprayer 26 is disposed at the front of the vehicle body 22. The water sprayer 26 sprays water in front of the vehicle body 22.

[0110] An outside air inlet 32 ​​is provided at the front of the vehicle body 22, and the power unit 24 generates power using oxygen introduced through the outside air inlet 32. By spraying water in front of the outside air inlet 32, highly humid air is supplied to the fuel cell 29 from the outside air inlet 32. The fuel cell 29 has an electrolyte membrane that allows ionic conduction between hydrogen and oxygen. It is said that an appropriate level of humidity is required for the electrolyte membrane. Since highly humid air is supplied to the fuel cell 29 from the outside air inlet 32, a decrease in the power generation efficiency of the fuel cell 29 is suppressed. Furthermore, a humidifier in the fuel cell 29 can be simplified or omitted.

[0111] The water sprayers 26 spray water ahead in the direction of travel of the traveling device 23. The water sprayer 26L sprays water ahead of the left front wheel 27F, and the water sprayer 26R sprays water ahead of the right front wheel 27F. This wets the road surface ahead of the traveling device 23, which prevents dust or sand from spreading when the traveling device 23 travels.

[0112] [Other embodiments] Fig. 10 is a configuration diagram showing a transport vehicle 2 according to another embodiment. In the above-described embodiment, the power unit 24 of the transport vehicle 2 includes a fuel cell 29. As shown in Fig. 10, the power unit 24 (energy supply system 17B) of the transport vehicle 2 may include a hydrogen engine 81. The hydrogen engine 81 generates power by causing a combustion reaction between hydrogen and oxygen.

[0113] The hydrogen engine 81 has a cylinder block and a piston. Hydrogen and air containing oxygen are supplied to a combustion chamber defined by the cylinder block and the piston. The hydrogen is stored in a hydrogen tank 33 and supplied to the hydrogen engine 81 by a hydrogen supply device 34. Air is supplied to the hydrogen engine 81 from an outside air inlet 32.

[0114] The water vapor produced in the hydrogen engine 81 is condensed by the condenser 30. The water produced in the condenser 30 is stored in the water storage tank 25.

[0115] 10 has a generator 83 that generates electric power based on power generated by a hydrogen engine 81. The generator 83 is connected to a field adjustment device 82. The electric power generated by the generator 83 is supplied to a vehicle drivetrain 18B via a rectifier 84. As in the above-described embodiment, the vehicle drivetrain 18B has an inverter 42, a traveling drive motor 31, a reduction gear mechanism 43, and wheels 27. The traveling drive motor 31 generates power based on the electric power generated by the generator 83.

[0116] FIG. 11 is a configuration diagram showing a transporter vehicle 2 according to another embodiment. As with the example shown in FIG. 10, the energy supply system 17C includes a hydrogen engine 81. The vehicle drive system 18C has a power distribution mechanism 85 and a power transmission mechanism 86. The power distribution mechanism 85 is connected to the hydrogen engine 81. The power generated by the hydrogen engine 81 is distributed to the hydraulic pump 39 and the power transmission mechanism 86. The power distributed to the power transmission mechanism 86 is transmitted to the wheels 27 via a reduction gear mechanism 43. As shown in FIG. 11, the energy supply system 17C does not have to include a generator.

[0117] Fig. 12 is a diagram schematically showing a transporter vehicle 2 according to another embodiment. As shown in Fig. 12, the water sprayer 26 may be provided at the rear of the vehicle body 22. When the power unit 24 and the water tank 25 are arranged at the front of the vehicle body 22, the water sprinkler tank 87 may be arranged at a position different from the water tank 25. The water sprinkler tank 87 is arranged rearward of the water tank 25 on the vehicle body 22.

[0118] In the example shown in FIG. 12 , transport vehicle 2 is equipped with a first sprinkler pump 88 that supplies water stored in water storage tank 25 to sprinkler tank 87, and a second sprinkler pump 89 that supplies water stored in water storage tank 87 to sprinkler sprayers 26. Water storage tank 25 and first sprinkler pump 88 are connected via pipe 90A. First sprinkler pump 88 and water storage tank 87 are connected via pipe 90B. Sprinkler tank 87 and second sprinkler pump 89 are connected via pipe 91A. Second sprinkler pump 89 and water storage sprayers 26 are connected via pipe 91B. Water storage tank 25 supplies water to sprinkler tank 87 from water storage tank 25.

[0119] In addition, a water receiving port 87A may be connected to watering tank 87. Water is supplied to water receiving port 87A from outside vehicle body 22. When the amount of water in watering tank 87 is low, water may be replenished into watering tank 87 via water receiving port 87A. Similarly, water receiving port 25A, to which water is supplied from outside vehicle body 22, may be connected to water storage tank 25.

[0120] Furthermore, in the vehicle width direction of the vehicle body 22, the water sprayer 26L and at least a portion of the rear wheel 27R, which is a drive wheel, are positioned in the same position. The water sprayer 26L may spray water in front of the left rear wheel 27R. Furthermore, in the vehicle width direction of the vehicle body 22, the water sprayer 26R and at least a portion of the rear wheel 27R, which is a drive wheel, are positioned in the same position. The water sprayer 26L may spray water in front of the right rear wheel 27R.

[0121] In addition, when the vehicle body 22 turns, the water sprayer 26 may be configured to change the angle between the water spray direction of the water sprayer 26 and the forward direction of the transport vehicle 2 as appropriate based on the left and right wheel rotation speed information of the steering input device or the running device 23.

[0122] In the above-described embodiment, the sprinkler device is the sprinkler spray 26. In other embodiments, the sprinkler device may be another device having a sprinkler function. [Explanation of symbols]

[0123] 1...work site, 2...transport vehicle, 3...control device, 4...travel area, 5...loading area, 6...soil discharge area, 7...parking area, 8...fuel station, 9...travel path, 10...intersection, 11...loader, 12...crusher, 13...management system, 14...management device, 15...communication system, 15A...wireless communication device, 15B...wireless communication device, 16...control facility, 17...energy supply system, 17B...energy supply system, 17C...energy supply system, 18...vehicle drive system, 18B...vehicle drive system, 18C...vehicle drive system, 19...watering system, 21...vessel, 22...vehicle body, 23...traveling gear, 24...power unit, 25... Water tank, 25A...water inlet, 26...water spray, 26C...water spray, 26L...water spray, 26R...water spray, 27...wheel, 27F...front wheel, 27R...rear wheel, 28...tire, 28F...front tire, 28R...rear tire, 29...fuel cell, 30...condenser, 31...travel drive motor, 32...fresh air intake, 33...hydrogen tank, 34...hydrogen supply device, 35...battery, 36...voltage converter, 37...inverter, 38...pump drive motor, 39...hydraulic pump, 40...control valve, 41...hoist cylinder, 42...inverter, 43...reduction mechanism, 44... Sprinkler pump, 45...pipe, 46...pipe, 47...energy control unit, 48...vehicle operation control unit, 49...sprinkler control unit, 50...own vehicle information memory unit, 51...terrain information memory unit, 52...controlled other vehicle information memory unit, 53...monitor control unit, 54...monitor, 55...input unit, 56...accelerator brake pedal, 57...shift lever, 58...lift lever, 59...sprinkler system, 60...sensor for determining sprinkler status, 61...position sensor, 62...water volume sensor, 63...dust sensor, 64...inclination angle sensor, 65...slip sensor, 66...weather sensor, 67...temperature sensor, 68...humidity sensor, 71...information integration unit, 72...contribution application unit, 73...watering amount tolerance level map correction unit, 74...watering permission signal generation unit, 75...watering device drive command unit, 81...hydrogen engine, 82...field adjustment device, 83...generator, 84...rectifier, 85...power distribution mechanism, 86...power transmission mechanism, 87...watering tank, 87A...water inlet, 88...first watering pump, 89...second watering pump, 90A...pipe, 90B...pipe, 91A...pipe, 91B...pipe, 1000...computer system, 1001...processor, 1002...main memory, 1003...storage, 1004...interface.

Claims

1. Dump body and a vehicle body supporting the dump body; a traveling device that supports the vehicle body; a power unit that generates power for driving the traveling device by reacting hydrogen and oxygen; a water storage tank for storing water produced by the power plant; a water sprinkler device that sprays water stored in the water storage tank to sprinkle water over at least a portion of the periphery of the vehicle body, The sprinkler device is disposed at the front of the vehicle body, An outside air intake port is provided at the front of the vehicle body, the power unit generates power using oxygen introduced through the outside air inlet, The sprinkler device and at least a portion of the outside air inlet are located at the same position in the vehicle width direction of the vehicle body. Transport vehicle.

2. The sprinkler device sprinkles water forward in the traveling direction of the vehicle body. The transport vehicle of claim 1 .

3. The sprinkler device sprinkles water forward in the traveling direction of the traveling device. The transport vehicle of claim 1 .

4. The traveling device has a drive wheel, The sprinkler device sprinkles water in front of the drive wheels. The transport vehicle of claim 1 .

5. The sprinkler device sprinkles water in front of the traveling device when the traveling device moves forward. A transport vehicle according to any one of claims 2 to 4.

6. The traveling device has front wheels and rear wheels, The sprinkler device sprinkles water in front of the front wheels. A transport vehicle according to any one of claims 2 to 5.

7. In the vehicle width direction of the vehicle body, the position of the sprinkler device is the same as that of at least a portion of the front wheel.

7. A transport vehicle according to claim 6.

8. The dump body performs a dumping operation so as to tilt backward. A transporter vehicle according to any one of claims 2 to 7.

9. The power unit is a fuel cell that generates electricity by electrochemically reacting hydrogen and oxygen; a condenser for condensing water vapor generated in the fuel cell; a travel drive motor that generates the power based on the electric power generated by the fuel cell, The water produced in the condenser is stored in the water storage tank. A transport vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. The power unit is a hydrogen engine that generates the power by causing a combustion reaction between hydrogen and oxygen; a condenser that condenses water vapor generated in the hydrogen engine, The water produced in the condenser is stored in the water storage tank. A transport vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

11. The power unit is a hydrogen engine that causes a combustion reaction between hydrogen and oxygen; a generator that generates electric power based on the power generated by the hydrogen engine; a travel drive motor that generates the power based on the electric power generated by the generator; a condenser that condenses water vapor generated in the hydrogen engine, The water produced in the condenser is stored in the water storage tank. A transport vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

12. A sprinkler pump is provided to supply the water stored in the water storage tank to the sprinkler device. A transport vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

13. A pipe is provided to connect the sprinkler pump and the sprinkler device.

13. A transport vehicle according to claim 12.

14. a watering tank disposed at a position different from the water storage tank; a first sprinkler pump that supplies water stored in the water storage tank to the sprinkler tank; a second sprinkler pump that supplies water stored in the sprinkler tank to the sprinkler device; The sprinkler device sprinkles water supplied from the water storage tank to the sprinkler tank. A transport vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

15. A water inlet is connected to the water storage tank or the watering tank and receives water from outside the vehicle body.

15. A transport vehicle according to claim 14.

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