Work vehicles

Abstract

To provide a useful work vehicle.SOLUTION: A work vehicle includes a switch device 10b including a plurality of switches 11A to 11F having a first illumination area (function displays PA1 to PF1) and a second illumination area (function displays PA2 to PF2). The switch device 10b is switchable between a first operation mode and a second operation mode. The first illumination area (function displays PA1 to PF1) is illuminated in the first operation mode, and the second illumination area (function displays PA2 to PF2) is illuminated in the second operation mode.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] The illuminated push button switch of Patent Document 1 comprises a casing in which the push button is arranged, a switch body that opens and closes the switch contacts in response to pressing of the push button, and a light source that is housed within the casing as a separate body from the switch body. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2005-78989 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In the push button switch of Patent Document 1, when a plurality of push buttons and switch bodies are arranged in a casing, a corresponding number of light sources are housed in the casing, and light emission is controlled collectively.

[0005] If all the push buttons emit light at the same time, for example, if there are push buttons among the multiple push buttons that are unnecessary for the operator, it will be difficult for the operator to recognize the unnecessary push buttons, resulting in reduced convenience.

[0006] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is an object of the present invention to provide a useful work vehicle. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The work vehicle of the present invention includes a switch device including a plurality of switches each having a first lighting region and a second lighting region. The switch device is switchable between a first operation mode and a second operation mode. The first lighting region is illuminated in the first operation mode, and the second lighting region is illuminated in the second operation mode. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, the operator can easily recognize the switch. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a switch device. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a switch device. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a switch of the switch device. [Figure 4] 1. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a state in which light-emitting elements corresponding to functional switches are controlled to be switched to a lit state and light-emitting elements corresponding to non-functional switches are controlled to be switched to a non-lit state in the switch device shown in FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a switch device according to a first modification. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 shows a switch device including a switch having two lighting areas. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a switch device including a switch having three lighting areas. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a switch system. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a control cabin of the work vehicle. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a work vehicle. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same or corresponding parts are designated by the same reference characters and description thereof will not be repeated. First, a switch device for a work vehicle will be described in a first embodiment, then a switch system for a work vehicle will be described in a second embodiment, and a work vehicle equipped with the switch device will be described in a third embodiment.

[0011] [First embodiment] The switch device for a work vehicle according to this embodiment is a switch device that is arranged, for example, in the driver's cab of a work vehicle and is used to operate the work vehicle.

[0012] This switch device includes standard switches for functions that are installed as standard on a work vehicle, and optional switches for functions that are selectively installed. For convenience, among the optional switches, switches that are assigned specific functions and are actually used are referred to as function switches, and switches that are not assigned specific functions and are not actually used are referred to as non-function switches. Note that the "standard switches" correspond to the "other switches" in this invention, and the "optional switches" correspond to the "some switches" in this invention.

[0013] In the switch device of this embodiment, the optional switches are configured to be switchable between an on state and an off state (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the "on / off state") using a light-emitting element, making it possible to distinguish between functional switches and non-functional switches.

[0014] The work vehicle switch device according to this embodiment will be described below with reference to several examples. Note that in the following examples, some of the switches are optional switches and the others are standard switches, but all of the switches may be optional switches.

[0015] [Example] An example of a switch device for a work vehicle according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 and 2. Figure 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of the switch device of this embodiment, and Figure 2 is a block diagram of the same switch device.

[0016] The switch device 10 according to this embodiment has a light-emitting element 13 only in the optional switch. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the switch device 10 comprises a device main body 12, a switch 11, a light-emitting element 13, and a control unit 14. The switch 11, the light-emitting element 13, and the control unit 14 are connected by wiring 16. The "light-emitting element 13" corresponds to the "light-emitting unit" in this invention.

[0017] The device body 12 is formed, for example, in the shape of a housing or a panel, and is configured to be able to house or support the switch 11, the light emitting element 13, and the control unit .

[0018] Switch 11 is, for example, a pushbutton switch, and accepts operation from an operator. When operated by the operator, switch 11 generates an operation signal (on information or off information) indicating whether the switch has been pressed, and this operation signal is output to the work vehicle via wiring 16. This causes the work vehicle to perform the function assigned to that switch. For example, when the operator presses switch 11 (switch 11B, described below) to which the function of adjusting the engine speed has been assigned, on information indicating that switch 11B has been pressed is output to the work vehicle via wiring 16. The work vehicle receives the on information and increases the engine speed. Furthermore, when switch 11B is pressed again after having been pressed once (on state), off information is output to the work vehicle. The work vehicle receives the off information and decreases the engine speed.

[0019] In the switch device 10, for example, six switches 11 (switches 11A to 11F) are provided on the device main body 12. Each of the switches 11A to 11F is configured so that it can be assigned a function corresponding to various operations of the work vehicle. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the function of switching the headlights of the work vehicle on and off can be assigned to switch 11A. Similarly, the function of adjusting the engine speed can be assigned to switch 11B, the function of instructing the sound output unit (buzzer) whether to output sound can be assigned to switch 11C, the function of switching the operation of the wipers can be assigned to switch 11D, the function of switching the operation of the wiper washer can be assigned to switch 11E, and the function of switching the display on the display unit (monitor) to a camera image can be assigned to switch 11F. The assignment of the above functions is determined for each work vehicle. In this embodiment, switches 11A to 11C are standard switches, and switches 11D to 11F are optional switches. For example, if the work vehicle is a cabin-type work vehicle, a wiper and a washer are required, and the work vehicle is equipped with a wiper operation function and a washer function, and switches 11D and 11E become function switches. On the other hand, if the work vehicle is not equipped with a camera for monitoring the surroundings, it is not equipped with a function to switch the display on the display unit to a camera image, and switch 11F becomes a non-function switch. The number of switches 11 provided on device main body 12 is not limited to six.

[0020] A function indicator P is attached to the top surface of the switch 11, and the function indicator P is configured to enable the functions that can be assigned to the switch 11 to be identified.

[0021] 1, switch 11A is provided with a function indicator PA indicating a function of switching the headlights on and off. Similarly, switch 11B is provided with a function indicator PB indicating a function for adjusting the engine speed, switch 11C is provided with a function indicator PC indicating a function for instructing the sound output unit whether or not to output sound, switch 11D is provided with a function indicator PD indicating a function for switching the operation of the wipers, switch 11E is provided with a function indicator PE indicating a function for switching the operation of the wiper washer, and switch 11F is provided with a function indicator PF indicating a function for switching the display on the display unit to a camera image.

[0022] Next, the on / off states of the option switch will be described with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a switch 11D of the switch device.

[0023] 3, the optional switches 11D to 11F can be made up of a non-light-transmitting member 111 that does not transmit light and a light-transmitting member 112 that transmits light. For example, by making the top surface of the switch 11 (the surface visible to the operator) out of the light-transmitting member 112, the operator can visually check whether the light-emitting element 13 is on or off.

[0024] In particular, by configuring the function indicator P with the translucent member 112, the visibility of the function indicator P changes depending on the on / off state of the light-emitting element 13. That is, the function indicator P is visible to the operator when the light-emitting element 13 is lit, but is invisible to the operator when the light-emitting element 13 is off. For example, by making the entire switch 11 gray and the function indicator P a highly transparent white, the difference in color and brightness between the function indicator P and the other parts is not so great in the off state, but becomes more noticeable in the on state due to the transmission of light. Note that visibility here refers to whether the operator can easily grasp the displayed content at a glance, and "invisible" does not mean that the function indicator P is completely invisible.

[0025] In this embodiment, for the standard switches 11A to 11C, the function indicators P are made of a non-translucent member 111 and have a different color from the other parts. For example, the entire switch 11 is colored gray, and the function indicators P are colored white. This allows the operator to recognize the content of the function indicators P.

[0026] As shown in FIG. 2, among the multiple switches 11 provided on the device main body 12, option switches 11D to 11F are provided with corresponding light-emitting elements 13 (13D to 13F). The light-emitting elements 13 are, for example, LEDs (light emitting diodes), and emit light toward the back surface of the switches 11 when lit. The emitted light passes through the function indicators P of the switches 11, which are made of a light-transmitting member 112. On the other hand, the light-emitting elements 13 do not emit light when lit. The light-emitting elements 13 are individually switched between on and off states under the control of the control unit 14. As a result, the light-emitting elements 13D and 13E corresponding to the option switches (function switches) 11D and 11E are lit, and the light-emitting element 13F corresponding to the option switch (non-function switch) 11F is lit. The area on the surface of the switch 11 to which the function indicators P are attached may be referred to as the lit area.

[0027] The control unit 14 controls the on / off of the light-emitting elements 13 based on signals from the work vehicle. For example, when the control unit 14 receives an activation signal indicating a key-on state as an operation signal from the work vehicle, it transmits a control signal S to the light-emitting elements 13D, 13E corresponding to the function switches 11D, 11E, instructing them to perform the on / off control, based on the corresponding function information. Furthermore, when the control unit 14 receives a stop signal indicating a key-off state as an operation signal from the work vehicle, it transmits a control signal S to the light-emitting elements 13D, 13E instructing them to perform the off control. As a result, the light-emitting elements 13 emit light (turn on) when receiving the control signal S indicating a light-on state from the control unit, and do not emit light (turn off) when receiving the control signal S indicating a light-off state from the control unit. The corresponding function information indicates the correspondence between the switch 11 and the work vehicle function assigned to that switch 11. For example, the switch 11A is associated with the headlight on / off control function. This corresponding function information is stored in a storage unit (not shown).

[0028] (Switch device on / off control) Next, the on and off states of the switch device having the above configuration will be described with reference to FIG.

[0029] Fig. 4 is a diagram showing a state in which the light-emitting elements 13D and 13E corresponding to the functional switches 11D and 11E are switched to a lit state and the light-emitting element 13F corresponding to the non-functional switch 11F is switched to an extinguished state in the switch device 10 shown in Fig. 3. In the following figures, the lit states of the standard switches 11A to 11C and the optional switches 11D to 11F are indicated by solid lines, and the extinguished states are indicated by dashed lines.

[0030] In the example shown in FIG. 4, the control unit 14 refers to the corresponding function information in the storage unit, recognizes that the switches 11D and 11E among the option switches 11D to 11F are function switches, and controls the light emitting elements 13D and 13E to be switched on.

[0031] Furthermore, control unit 14 recognizes that switch 11F, among option switches 11D to 11F, is a non-function switch, and does not control light-emitting element 13F to switch to the lit state. In this way, by lighting function switches 11D and 11E and not lighting non-function switch 11F, only function switches 11D and 11E are presented to the operator, which can assist the operator in making a decision.

[0032] As described above, in the switch device 10 of this embodiment, an operation signal generated based on a switch operation by an operator is output to the work vehicle, causing the work vehicle to operate in accordance with the operation by the operator.

[0033] Moreover, for the option switches 11D to 11F, by changing the on / off state of the light emitting element 13, it becomes possible to visually check whether or not the option switches 11D to 11F are usable.

[0034] This allows the optional switches 11D to 11F to be assigned functions that may or may not be installed depending on the type and specifications of the work vehicle, thereby enabling the configuration of a switch device that corresponds to the type and specifications of the work vehicle without changing the hardware configuration of the switch device 10.

[0035] [Variation 1] Next, a modification of the switch device according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 5 is a block diagram of a switch device 10a according to this modification.

[0036] The switch device of this modified example allows the optional switches 11D to 11F to be individually turned on and off, and allows the standard switches 11A to 11C to be collectively turned on and off.

[0037] The switch device 10a according to this modification differs from the switch device 10 according to the above-described embodiment in that it is provided with a light-emitting element 13 corresponding to the standard switch 11. The following describes the switch device 10a, focusing on the differences from the switch device 10.

[0038] In the switch device 10a, for example, the color of the function indicators PA to PC of the standard switches 11A to 11C is "white" so that the operator can easily see it in bright places, whereas the color of the function indicators PD to PF of the option switches 11D to 11F is "transparent" so that the operator cannot easily see it in bright places.

[0039] Furthermore, the switch device 10a of this modified example includes light emitting elements 13A to 13C corresponding to the standard switches 11A to 11C, in addition to light emitting elements 13D to 13F corresponding to the option switches 11D to 11F.

[0040] The light emitting elements 13A to 13C are arranged inside the standard switches 11A to 11C, respectively, and are configured to be able to illuminate the rear surfaces of the standard switches 11A to 11C from inside the standard switches 11A to 11C.

[0041] The light emitting elements 13A to 13C are connected to the control unit 14 via wiring 16, and are collectively switched on and off under the control of the control unit 14.

[0042] In the example of Figure 5, the light-emitting elements 13A to 13C are arranged individually for the standard switches 11A to 11C, but this is not limited to this, and for example, one light-emitting element 13 may be used to illuminate all of the standard switches 11A to 11C at once.

[0043] Standard switches 11A to 11C according to this modification are composed of a non-light-transmitting member 111 and a light-transmitting member 112. The light-transmitting members 112a constituting the function indicators PA to PC have a different color and shade from the light-transmitting members 112 described above, and are colored white (semi-transparent), for example, to the extent that light can pass through. As a result, the function indicators PA to PC of switches 11A to 11C appear white to an operator in a bright place such as a workplace in the daytime, and are therefore easily recognizable, even when light-emitting elements 13A to 13C are turned off.

[0044] On the other hand, when the light emitting elements 13A to 13C are in the lit state, the light emitted from the light emitting elements 13A to 13C passes through the light-transmitting member 112a, as in the example shown in Fig. 3. This allows the function indicators PA to PC to appear in the color of light emitted by the light emitting elements 13A to 13C to the operator, even in a dark place such as a workplace at night. For example, if the color of light emitted by the light emitting elements 13A to 13C is "white," the function indicator PA appears bright and white to the operator in both bright and dark places, making it easy to recognize.

[0045] The control unit 14 controls the switching of the light emitting elements 13A to 13C corresponding to the standard switches 11A to 11C between on and off states all at once.

[0046] For example, the control unit 14 controls the switching of the light-emitting elements 13A-13C corresponding to the standard switches 11A-11C to a lit state in accordance with the ambient brightness. Specifically, the work vehicle is provided with an illuminance sensor (not shown) that measures the ambient brightness (brightness), and the control unit 14 acquires the brightness measured by the illuminance sensor and determines, based on the brightness, whether to control the switching of the light-emitting elements 13A-13C corresponding to the standard switches 11A-11C to a lit state or an extinguished state.

[0047] For example, when the brightness measured by the illuminance sensor is less than a predetermined value, the control unit 14 controls the light-emitting elements 13A to 13C to switch to a light-on state. On the other hand, when the brightness measured by the illuminance sensor is equal to or greater than the predetermined value, the control unit 14 controls the light-emitting elements 13A to 13C to switch to a light-off state.

[0048] Furthermore, in addition to controlling the switching between the on and off states of the light-emitting elements 13A to 13C based on the brightness measured by the illuminance sensor, the control unit 14 may also control the switching between the on and off states of the light-emitting elements 13A to 13C in response to the operation of a predetermined switch 11. Specifically, when the light-emitting elements 13A to 13C are in the off state and, for example, the operator presses switch 11A, which is assigned the function of switching on and off the headlights of the work vehicle, the control unit 14 controls the switching between the light-emitting elements 13A to 13C in the on state.

[0049] On the other hand, the control unit 14 individually controls the on / off state of the light-emitting elements 13D-11F corresponding to the option switches 11D-11F based on the corresponding function information, as described above. That is, when the work vehicle is keyed on, the control unit 14 controls the lighting of the light-emitting elements 13D, 13E of the option switches 11D-11F that correspond to the function switches 11D, 11E to which functions have been assigned.

[0050] As described above, in the switch device 10a according to this modified example, the control unit 14 controls the lighting on and off of the light-emitting elements 13A to 13C corresponding to the standard switches 11A to 11C and the light-emitting elements 13D to 13F corresponding to the option switches 11D to 11F under different conditions.

[0051] As described above, in the switch device 10a of this modified example, by providing light-emitting elements 13A to 13C corresponding to the standard switches 11A to 11C, even when the use environment makes it difficult to recognize the existence or contents of the standard switches 11A to 11C, a certain degree of identifiability can be maintained by turning on the light-emitting elements 13A to 13C.

[0052] [Variation 2] Next, another modified example of the switch device for a work vehicle according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 6 and 7. Figures 6 and 7 are diagrams showing the general configuration of the switch device of this modified example.

[0053] Switch devices 10b and 10c according to this modification are provided with a plurality of lighting areas (function displays) for each switch 11, and differ from switch device 10 according to the above-described embodiment in that a control unit 14 can switch between an on and off state for each lighting area. The following describes switch devices 10b and 10c, focusing on the differences from switch device 10. Note that this modification will be described assuming that light-emitting elements 13 are arranged corresponding to all switches 11.

[0054] (1. When there are two lighting areas) Regarding the switch device according to this modification, first, an example of a switch device 10b in which two lighting areas are provided for each switch 11 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0055] In the switch device 10b, the switches 11A to 11F have two illumination areas: a first illumination area (function displays PA1 to PF1) corresponding to the first function, and a second illumination area (function displays PA2 to PF2) corresponding to the second function. Furthermore, the switch device 10b has, for each of the switches 11A to 11F, light-emitting elements 13A1 to 13F1 provided corresponding to the first illumination area (function displays PA1 to PF1), and light-emitting elements 13A2 to 13F2 provided corresponding to the second illumination area (function displays PA2 to PF2). As will be described in more detail below, the first function is a function that can be assigned in the first operation mode, and the second function is a function that can be assigned in the second operation mode. For example, the first operation mode is a mode in which a predetermined function of the work vehicle is performed, and the second operation mode is a mode in which each switch 11 is used as a so-called numeric keypad to input numbers (passcode input mode).

[0056] Next, the structure of switch 11 will be described using switch 11A as an example. Switch 11A is provided with a partition (not shown) that prevents light from light-emitting element 13A1 from passing through function indicator PA2 (light-transmitting member 112). As a result, when switch 11A functions as the first function switch, the operator sees only the light emitted by function indicator PA1. The operator recognizes that switch 11A is functioning as the first function switch by seeing the light emitted by function indicator PA1.

[0057] On the other hand, when switch 11A functions as the second function switch, light-emitting element 13A2 is controlled to be in an on state and light-emitting element 13A1 is controlled to be in an off state. When control unit 14 controls light-emitting element 13A2 to be in an on state, light-emitting element 13A2 emits light toward the back surface of switch 11A. The emitted light passes through function indicator PA2 (light-transmitting member 112) of switch 11A and does not pass through function indicator PA1 (light-transmitting member 112) due to the partition. As a result, when switch 11A functions as the second function switch, the operator sees only the light emitted by function indicator PA2. The operator recognizes that switch 11A is functioning as the second function switch by seeing the light emitted by function indicator PA2.

[0058] The light emitting elements 13A1 and 13A2 arranged in the switch 11A are connected to the control unit 14 via wiring 16, and each of the light emitting elements 13A1 and 13A2 can be switched between an on and off state.

[0059] The control unit 14 is configured to be able to transmit a control signal S that switches the lighting state of each of the light-emitting elements 13A1 and 13A2, thereby switching the lighting state of each of the lighting areas (function displays PA1 and PA2) of the switch 11A. In addition, the control unit 14 can send a different control signal S for each lighting area; for example, for the first lighting area (function display PA1), it can switch the on / off state of each of the option switches 11D to 11F individually, and for the second lighting area (function display PA2), it can switch the on / off state of all of the switches 11A to 11F collectively. For example, when the control unit 14 causes the switches 11A to 11F to function as second function switches, it controls and switches all of the light emitting elements 13A2 to 13F2 corresponding to the function indicators PA2 to PF2 to a lighting state.

[0060] When the control unit 14 causes the switches 11A to 11F to function as the first function switches, it controls the light emitting elements 13D1 and 13E1 corresponding to the function indicators PD1 and PE1 to be switched on and off.

[0061] As shown in Fig. 6, the first display areas of the switches 11A to 11F are marked with function indicators PA1 to PF1 indicating functions that can be assigned in the first operation mode. As with the switch device 10, as standard functions, the switch 11A is marked with a function indicator PA1 indicating a headlight on / off switching function, the switch 11B with a function indicator PB1 indicating an engine RPM adjustment function, and the switch 11B with a function indicator PC1 indicating a sound output function. In addition, as optional functions, the switch 11D is marked with a function indicator PD1 indicating a wiper function, the switch 11E with a function indicator PE1 indicating a washer function, and the switch 11F with a function indicator PF1 indicating a camera function. In Fig. 6, the function indicators PA1 to PF1 are shown in solid lines regardless of whether they are on or off.

[0062] Furthermore, the second lighting area is assigned a numerical value that can be input in the passcode input mode, which is the second operation mode. For example, switch 11A is assigned the function of inputting the number "1" into an operation device (monitor) of the work vehicle. Note that in Fig. 6, similar to the above-mentioned function indicators PA1 to PF1, function indicators PA2 to PF2 are shown in solid lines regardless of whether they are in the lit state or the extinguished state.

[0063] Similarly, the second display areas of switches 11B to 11F are assigned the function of inputting numbers "2" to "6" into an operating device, etc. For example, the operator recognizes from function displays PA2 to PF2 that the functions corresponding to the second mode are assigned to switches 11A to 11F.

[0064] As described above, the switches 11A to 11F are capable of switching the functions assigned to them depending on the operation mode.

[0065] Furthermore, if the switch 11F is a non-functional switch, it is inoperable in the first operation mode but operable in the second operation mode.

[0066] For example, when an operator inputs an instruction to switch the switch device 10b to the second operation mode to the operation device of the work vehicle, the control unit 14 controls the switches 11A to 11F in accordance with the operation instruction so that they function in the second operation mode, thereby enabling the input of numerical values ​​corresponding to the switches 11A to 11F.

[0067] (2. When there are three display areas) Next, a switch device 10c in which switches 11A to 11F have even more lighting areas (function displays P) will be described with reference to Fig. 7. Fig. 7 is a diagram showing a switch device 10c including switches 11A to 11F with three lighting areas.

[0068] In switch device 10c, switches 11A-11F have function indicators PA3-PF3 (third lighting area) in addition to the above-mentioned function indicators PA1-PF1 (first lighting area) and function indicators PA2-PF2 (second lighting area). Switch device 10c also has light-emitting elements 13A3-13F3 provided corresponding to function indicators PA3-PF3 in addition to light-emitting elements 13A1-13F1 and 13A2-13F2. Function indicators PA3-PF3 are, for example, rectangular. Note that function indicators PA3-PF3 are not limited to rectangular shapes and may have any shape that allows an operator to recognize whether light-emitting elements 13A3-13F3 are on or off and the color of their light.

[0069] The light-emitting elements 13A3 to 13F3 are each connected to the control unit 14, and the control unit 14 controls the lighting or extinguishing of each element individually according to the state of the function assigned to the switch 11, like the light-emitting elements 13A1 to 13F1 and the light-emitting elements 13A2 to 13F2.

[0070] Furthermore, switches 11A to 11F are each connected to control unit 14 via wiring 16, and when an operator operates switches 11A to 11F, an operation signal indicating the switch operation is transmitted to control unit 14. Control unit 14 also generates a control signal S based on the operation signal and transmits it to light-emitting elements 13A3 to 13F3. This allows light-emitting elements 13A3 to 13F3 to be switched on and off depending on the operation state of switches 11A to 11F.

[0071] In this switch device 10c, the operation states of the switches 11A to 11F, i.e., the operating states of the work vehicle corresponding to the functions of the switches 11A to 11F, are notified to the operator by switching the on / off states of the function displays PA3 to PF3 (third lighting areas).

[0072] For example, when the operator operates switch 11A, an operation signal indicating that switch 11A has been operated is transmitted to control unit 14. Control unit 14 receives this operation signal and transmits a control signal S to light-emitting element 13A3. As a result, the third illumination area (function display PA3) of switch 11A is illuminated, and the operator is notified that the headlights of the work vehicle are illuminated.

[0073] [Variation 3] Next, another modification of the switch device according to the present embodiment will be described. The switch device according to this modification is configured to change the light emitting color and light intensity of the light emitting element 13 according to the state of the work vehicle on which the switch device 10 is mounted. The light emitting element 13 in this modification is configured to be a combination of, for example, multiple monochromatic LEDs, and the control unit 14 controls the lighting and extinguishing of each monochromatic LED, thereby enabling the light emitting color and light intensity of the light emitting element 13 to be switched.

[0074] Control unit 14 is connected to each of switches 11A-11F via wiring 16, and is also connected to the detection unit of the work vehicle via input / output unit 25. This control unit 14 receives operation signals from switches 11A-11F and detection signals from the detection unit of the work vehicle. Control unit 14 also changes the luminous color or luminous intensity of light-emitting element 13 based on the operation signals or detection signals. Below, an example will be given of the control by control unit 14 to change the luminous color or luminous intensity of light-emitting element 13.

[0075] (1. Operation status notification) First, an example will be described in which the function (operating state of equipment on the work vehicle) corresponding to switch 11 is indicated by a change in the light-emitting color of light-emitting element 13. For example, when the work vehicle is in an operating state (key-on state), light-emitting element 13D of function switch 11D is turned on and function display PD is illuminated in white. This notifies the operator that the wiper function corresponding to function switch 11D has been assigned.

[0076] At this time, when the operator operates function switch 11D, the wipers of the work vehicle operate, the light emitting element 13D changes its emission color to blue, and the function indicator PE emits blue light, thereby informing the operator that the wipers are operating.

[0077] Specifically, the control unit 14 receives an operation signal from the switch 11D or a detection signal from a detection unit that detects the operation of the equipment on the work vehicle, and acquires the operating status of the wipers of the work vehicle. Furthermore, the control unit 14 controls the switching of the light emitting color of the light emitting element 13D corresponding to the corresponding switch 11D based on the acquired operating status.

[0078] Furthermore, in the switch device 10, when the function corresponding to the switch 11 (the operating state of the equipment of the work vehicle) changes in stages, the operating level can be notified by changing the light emission intensity. For example, if the operating speed of the wipers of the work vehicle can be changed, operating switch 11D once will operate the wipers of the work vehicle, and operating it again will speed up the operation of the wipers. In this way, when the operation of the equipment changes in stages, the operating speed of the wipers can be notified, for example, by changing the light emission intensity of light-emitting element 13D. Note that in the above example, the operating level is expressed by changing the light emission intensity of light-emitting element 13, but this is not limited to this and may also be expressed, for example, by changing the light emission color of light-emitting element 13.

[0079] (2. Abnormality Notification) Next, an example will be described in which an abnormal state of the function (equipment of the work vehicle) corresponding to the switch 11 is notified by changing the light emitting color of the light emitting element 13D. For example, the control unit 14 monitors whether a specific function of the work vehicle is operating normally, and controls the light color of the light-emitting element 13 of the switch 11 to which that function is assigned based on the monitoring results. For example, the control unit 14 monitors whether the wiper corresponding to the function for operating the wipers assigned to switch 11D is operating normally, and if there is no abnormality in the wiper, controls the light color of the light-emitting element 13D corresponding to switch 11D to "white," and if there is an abnormality in the wiper, controls the light color of the light-emitting element 13D to "red." This notifies the operator that the wiper is operating normally or abnormally. Note that the lighting state of the light-emitting element 13 may be changed to a flashing state to notify of an abnormal state.

[0080] (3. Trait Notification) Next, an example will be described in which the characteristics of the function (equipment of the work vehicle) corresponding to the switch 11 are notified by changing the light emitting color of the light emitting element 13. For example, the control unit 14 controls the light emitting color of the light emitting element 13 based on the characteristics of the function of the work vehicle assigned to the switch 11. For example, the control unit 14 references the corresponding function information and controls the light emitting color of the light emitting element 13F for the switch 11F to which the camera function is assigned to "red," which is associated with caution. This notifies the operator that caution is required regarding the camera image.

[0081] In this way, the switch device 10 according to this modification can notify the status of the function assigned to the switch by changing the light emitting color or light emitting intensity of the light emitting element 13. This makes it possible to notify the status of the equipment equipped in the work vehicle even when multiple lighting areas (function displays P) cannot be provided as in the above-described switch device b.

[0082] As described above with reference to several examples of the switch device according to this embodiment, the switch device according to this embodiment allows for distinguishing between usable switches (functional switches) and unusable switches (non-functional switches) by switching the lighting state of each of option switches 11D to 11F. This allows one switch device to be used with multiple work vehicles of different models and specifications, thereby reducing manufacturing costs.

[0083] Furthermore, by providing the standard switches 11A to 11C with corresponding light-emitting elements 13A to 13C, it is possible to switch the on / off state according to the usage environment. In particular, by switching the on / off states of the light-emitting elements 13A to 13C collectively, it is possible to eliminate the complexity of the switching operation.

[0084] [Second embodiment] Next, a description will be given of a work vehicle switch system according to this embodiment. The switch system according to this embodiment is a switch system for operating a work vehicle, and is composed of a switch device equipped with switches and light-emitting elements, and an external device equipped with a control unit. This external device is, for example, the main control device 30 of the work vehicle.

[0085] As shown in Fig. 8, the switch system 15 of this embodiment is composed of a switch device 10d and an external device. The switch device 10d includes a device main body 12 and a plurality of switches 11. At least some of the plurality of switches 11 are optional switches 11D to 11F, and the remaining switches are standard switches 11A to 11C. The optional switches 11D to 11F are respectively provided with corresponding light-emitting elements 13D to 13F. In the switch system 15, the switches 11D and 11E are functional switches, and the switch 11F is a non-functional switch. The switch 11 and the light-emitting element 13 are connected to a control unit 32 provided in the external device via wiring 16.

[0086] In the switch system 15 having such a configuration, the control unit 32 of the external device transmits a control signal S to the light-emitting elements 13D, 13E corresponding to the function switches 11D, 11E based on a start-up signal from the work vehicle. Upon receiving the control signal S, the light-emitting elements 13D, 13E are turned on.

[0087] In this way, according to the switch system 15, the option switches 11D to 11F can be individually switched on and off, similarly to the above-described switch device 10. This makes it possible to visually distinguish between the function switches 11D and 11E to which functions are assigned and the non-function switch 11F to which no function is assigned.

[0088] Furthermore, by placing the control unit 32 in an external device provided separately from the switch device 10d, the switch system 15 can be constructed using a switch device 10d that is generally available on the market, thereby improving the versatility of the switch system and keeping manufacturing costs low.

[0089] Although the switch system 15 according to this embodiment has been described above, various modifications are possible without being limited to this. For example, by arranging light emitting elements 13A to 13C in the standard switches 11A to 11C, it is possible to switch the light on / off state according to the usage environment of the work vehicle.

[0090] Furthermore, a plurality of lighting areas (function displays P) may be provided for each of the switches 11A to 11F, and the lighting area may be switched for each operation mode. Furthermore, the light emitting color or light intensity of the light emitting element 13 may be changeable.

[0091] [Third embodiment] Next, a work vehicle equipped with the above-described switch system will be described with reference to Figures 9 and 10. Figure 9 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of the main parts of the work vehicle of this embodiment, and Figure 10 is a block diagram of the work vehicle. Note that in this embodiment, for convenience of explanation, the switch system of the second embodiment is applied to the work vehicle, but this is not limiting, and the switch device of the first embodiment can also be applied.

[0092] The work vehicle according to this embodiment is, for example, a construction machine or an agricultural machine, and in this embodiment, a hydraulic excavator will be used as an example of construction machine. First, the work vehicle according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Fig. 9. Fig. 9 is a perspective view showing the operator's cab 205 of the work vehicle 100.

[0093] As shown in FIG. 9, the work vehicle 100 has a control room 205. In the control room 205, an operating device 20, a device main body 12, a seat 210, a plurality of operating levers 220, and a positioning member 230 are arranged. An operator sits in the seat 210. The operator is the operator of the work vehicle 100. Each of the plurality of operating levers 220 accepts operation from the operator. The operating levers 220 are operating members for operating the work vehicle 100.

[0094] The operation device 20 receives operations from the operator, operates the work vehicle 100 , inputs various information to the work vehicle 100 , and displays various information related to the work vehicle 100 .

[0095] The operation device 20 displays various types of information and accepts operations from the operator. The operation device 20 includes a display unit 22 and a plurality of push buttons 24. The display unit 22 displays various types of information related to the work vehicle 100. For example, the display unit 22 displays the status of the work vehicle 100, a GUI (Graphical User Interface), or camera images. The display unit 22 is, for example, a liquid crystal display or an organic electroluminescence display. The display unit 22 may also include a touch panel. In this case, each push button 24 may be displayed on the display unit 22 as a GUI widget.

[0096] The operation device 20 further includes a display control device 26 and a sound output unit 28. The display control device 26 controls the display unit 22. The display control device 26 is, for example, an ECU. The sound output unit 28 outputs sound. The sound output unit 28 is, for example, a speaker or a buzzer.

[0097] Specifically, the display control device 26 includes a control unit 261 and a storage unit 263. The control unit 261 includes a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The storage unit 263 includes a storage device and stores data and computer programs. Specifically, the storage unit 263 includes a main storage device such as a semiconductor memory, and an auxiliary storage device such as a semiconductor memory, a solid-state drive, and / or a hard disk drive. The storage unit 263 may include removable media. The storage unit 263 corresponds to an example of a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium.

[0098] The control unit 261 outputs to the main control device 30 various pieces of information that are input or set in response to operations on the screen displayed on the display unit 22.

[0099] The control unit 261 includes a display control unit 265. Specifically, the processor of the control unit 261 functions as the display control unit 265 by executing a computer program stored in the storage device of the storage unit 263. The display control unit 265 controls the display unit 22. For example, the display control unit 265 controls the screen displayed on the display unit 22 in accordance with operation information (on information or off information) indicating whether or not the push buttons 24A to 24F have been pressed.

[0100] The main control device 30 controls the switch device 10d, the operation device 20, and the engine unit 500. The main control device 30 is, for example, an ECU. The main control device 30 corresponds to the external device in the switch system of the second embodiment.

[0101] Specifically, the main control device 30 includes a control unit 32 and a memory unit 34. The control unit 32 includes a processor such as a CPU. The memory unit 34 includes a storage device and stores data and computer programs. The memory unit 34 also stores, for example, supported function information indicating the correspondence between the switches 11A to 11F and the functions assigned to each switch 11. The hardware configuration of the memory unit 34 is similar to the hardware configuration of the memory unit 263, for example. The supported function information is registered, for example, when the work vehicle 100 is manufactured.

[0102] The control unit 32 acquires various pieces of information that have been input or set in response to operations on the screen displayed on the display unit 22 from the control unit 261 of the display control device .

[0103] Furthermore, the control unit 32 acquires operation information of the switches 11A to 11F from the switch device 10d. The control unit 32 refers to the corresponding function information in the storage unit 34, and controls the function according to the acquired operation information.

[0104] On the other hand, the control unit 32 outputs to the switch device 10d various information and operation signals indicating the operating status of the work vehicle 100. The various information is, for example, compatible function information. The operation signal is, for example, a start signal indicating start (key on) of the work vehicle 100.

[0105] When the work vehicle 100 according to this embodiment having the above-described configuration is started by the operator, the control unit 32 receives an activation signal and transmits a control signal S to the light-emitting elements 13D, 13E of the switch device 10d. This places the function switches 11D, 11E in an operable state, and the light-emitting elements 13D, 13E notify the operator that this state has been reached.

[0106] Furthermore, when the operator operates standard switches 11A to 11C or function switches 11D, 11E of switch device 10d, the operation signals output by these switches 11A to 11E are transmitted to control unit 32 of work vehicle 100. As a result, work vehicle 100 operates in accordance with the switch operation by the operator.

[0107] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the drawings (FIGS. 1 to 10). However, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments and can be embodied in various forms without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. The drawings mainly show each component in a schematic manner for ease of understanding, and the thickness, length, number, etc. of each component shown in the drawings may differ from the actual components due to the convenience of creating the drawings. Furthermore, the materials, shapes, dimensions, etc. of each component shown in the above-described embodiments are merely examples and are not particularly limited, and various modifications are possible within a scope that does not substantially depart from the effects of the present invention. [Industrial Applicability]

[0108] The present invention can be used in the field of switch control provided in work vehicles. [Explanation of symbols]

[0109] 10: Switch device 11, 11A~11F: Switch 12, 12A to 12C: Device body 13, 13A to 13F: Light emitting element 15: Switch System 20: Operating device 28: Sound output section 14, 32: Control section 100: Work vehicle PA~PF: Function display

Claims

1. A work vehicle equipped with a switch device including a plurality of switches having a first lighting region and a second lighting region, the switch device is capable of switching between a first operation mode and a second operation mode by an operation device provided in the work vehicle, The first lighting area is illuminated in the first operation mode, and the second lighting area is illuminated in the second operation mode.

2. Upon switching from the second operation mode to the first operation mode, The work vehicle according to claim 1 , wherein the second lighting area is turned off and the first lighting area is turned on.

3. 3. The work vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the first lighting area is formed to be larger than the second lighting area.

4. The work vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first lighting area is disposed adjacent to the second lighting area.

5. A work vehicle equipped with a switch device having a plurality of switches having a first lighting area and a second lighting area, the switch device is switchable between a first operation mode and a second operation mode; the first lighting area is lit in the first operation mode, and the second lighting area is lit in the second operation mode; the work vehicle is equipped with a monitor; In the second operation mode, the second lighting area is marked with a number that can be entered into the monitor.

6. A work vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, in the first operation mode, the plurality of switches include function switches to which specific functions of the work vehicle are assigned and non-function switches to which no specific functions are assigned.

7. The work vehicle according to claim 5 , wherein the second illumination area is illuminated when the work vehicle is in a key-on state.

8. A work vehicle equipped with a switch device including a plurality of switches having a first lighting region and a second lighting region, the switch device is capable of switching between a first operation mode and a second operation mode by an operation device provided in the work vehicle after the key is turned on, The second operation mode starts when the key is turned on, The first lighting area is illuminated in the first operation mode, and the second lighting area is illuminated in the second operation mode.

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