Shovel, shovel control device

Abstract

To reduce the down-time.SOLUTION: A shovel includes: a base carrier; a revolving super structure mounted on the base carrier in a revolving manner; an internal combustion engine mounted on the revolving super structure; and a control unit configured to detect a sign of an abnormality of a filter, which is provided at an exhaust passage of the internal combustion engine and collects particulate matters in exhaust air, and notify a detection result.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an excavator and an excavator management device.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, an excavator having a filter for collecting particulate matter in exhaust gas provided in an exhaust passage of an internal combustion engine is known. Further, in such an excavator, it is known that based on the output of a pressure sensor attached to the filter, it is detected that the filter is clogged and a warning is output.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] When the filter becomes clogged, the excavator may come to a stop. Also, in this case, it is necessary to replace the filter, which may result in a long downtime. However, the above-described conventional technology does not consider shortening the downtime.

[0005] Therefore, in view of the above problems, an object is to shorten the downtime.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] An embodiment of the present invention is an excavator comprising: a lower traveling body; an upper rotating body rotatably mounted on the lower traveling body; an internal combustion engine mounted on the upper rotating body; and a pressure sensor for detecting the differential pressure between the upstream and downstream pressures of a filter for collecting particulate matter in the exhaust gas provided in the exhaust passage of the internal combustion engine, wherein the excavator comprises a control unit that detects a first indicator indicating that the estimated value of the differential pressure after regeneration processing of the filter, derived from the operating time of the excavator, has begun to rise, and a second indicator indicating that the estimated value of the differential pressure continues to rise, and notifies the detection results. The control unit determines whether a second warning, indicating that clogging has progressed beyond the first warning, has been detected, based on the number of times the differential pressure exceeds a warning detection threshold, which is a value lower than the regeneration execution threshold for automatically executing the regeneration process of the filter, or the interval between times the differential pressure exceeds the warning detection threshold. If the second warning is not detected, and the differential pressure exceeds the warning detection threshold, the control unit detects the first warning and displays a message on the display device corresponding to the stage of the detected warning. It's a shovel.

[0007] An embodiment of the present invention provides a control device for an excavator, comprising: a pressure sensor that detects the differential pressure between the upstream and downstream pressures of a filter that collects particulate matter in the exhaust gas provided in the exhaust passage of an internal combustion engine; a first indicator indicating that the estimated value of the differential pressure after regeneration processing of the filter, derived from the operating time of the excavator, has begun to rise; and a second indicator indicating that the estimated value of the differential pressure is continuously rising. The control device provides a display control unit that displays information corresponding to the notification. The system determines whether a second warning sign, indicating that clogging has progressed beyond the first warning sign, has been detected based on the number of times the differential pressure exceeds a warning threshold, which is lower than the regeneration execution threshold for automatically performing the regeneration process of the filter, or the interval between times the differential pressure exceeds the warning threshold. If the second warning sign is not detected, the system detects the first warning sign when the differential pressure exceeds the warning threshold, and displays a message on the display device corresponding to the stage of the detected warning sign. This is a control device for excavators. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] It can shorten downtime. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This diagram shows an example of the system configuration of a shovel management system. [Figure 2] This is a block diagram showing an example of the drive system configuration installed in an excavator. [Figure 3] This is a schematic diagram showing the relationship between the operating time of the excavator and the DPF differential pressure. [Figure 4] This diagram illustrates the frequency of regeneration processes performed on excavators and the detection of warning signs and abnormalities. [Figure 5]This is the first flowchart explaining the process of the shovel controller. [Figure 6] This is the second flowchart explaining the process of the shovel controller. [Figure 7] This figure shows an example of the display on the control device. [Figure 8] This figure shows an example of a display in a support device. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] The management system for the excavator of this embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. Figure 1 is a diagram showing an example of the system configuration of the excavator management system. In this embodiment, the excavator 100 will be described as an example of construction machinery.

[0011] The excavator management system SYS of this embodiment includes an excavator 100 and a control device 200. In the following description, the excavator management system SYS will be simply referred to as the management system SYS.

[0012] In the management system SYS of this embodiment, the shovel 100 and the management device 200 are connected via a network or the like.

[0013] In this embodiment, the excavator 100 acquires operational information indicating its own operating status, transmits it to the management device 200, and receives various information from the management device 200.

[0014] The operational information for Shovel 100 specifically includes position information indicating the machine's current location, orientation information indicating the machine's direction, attitude information indicating the machine's posture, work content information indicating the work being done, load factor information indicating the load ratio, cumulative time information indicating the cumulative operating time, fuel information including fuel injection amount, CO2 emissions, work volume, etc.

[0015] In addition, the operation information of the excavator 100 may include the output values of various sensors possessed by the excavator 100. Specifically, the operation information of the excavator 100 may include the output value of the differential pressure sensor 50c described later.

[0016] The management device 200 receives the operation information from the excavator 100, and aggregates the operation information for each work content of the excavator 100 indicated by the status information included in the operation information.

[0017] In addition, when the management device 200 receives a notification indicating an abnormality of a component detected in the excavator 100 or a sign of an abnormality from the excavator 100, the management device 200 causes a display device or the like possessed by the management device 200 to display the notification. Examples of the component include a diesel particulate filter (hereinafter referred to as "DPF") 50b described later.

[0018] Although not shown, the management system SYS may include a support device held by a worker or the like at the work site. In this case, the support device may be able to communicate with the management device 200 and the excavator 100 via a network.

[0019] In addition, in the example of FIG. 1, the management device 200 is assumed to be realized by one information processing device, but is not limited thereto. The management device 200 may be realized by a plurality of information processing devices. In other words, the functions realized by the management device 200 may be realized by a plurality of information processing devices.

[0020] Next, the excavator 100 of the present embodiment will be described. In FIG. 1, a side view of the excavator 100 is shown.

[0021] Excavator 100 has a lower traveling body 1, a slewing mechanism 2, and an upper slewing body 3. In excavator 100, the lower traveling body 1 has a crawler 1C, and the upper slewing body 3 is mounted to it so as to be rotatable via the slewing mechanism 2. The lower traveling body 1 also includes the crawler 1C. The crawler 1C is driven by a travel hydraulic motor 2M, which is a travel actuator mounted on the lower traveling body 1. Specifically, the crawler 1C includes a left crawler 1CL and a right crawler 1CR. The left crawler 1CL is driven by a left travel hydraulic motor 2ML, and the right crawler 1CR is driven by a right travel hydraulic motor 2MR.

[0022] A boom 4 is attached to the upper rotating body 3. An arm 5 is attached to the tip of the boom 4, and a bucket 6, which serves as an end attachment, is attached to the tip of the arm 5.

[0023] The boom 4, arm 5, and bucket 6 constitute an excavation attachment as an example of an attachment. The boom 4 is driven by the boom cylinder 7, the arm 5 is driven by the arm cylinder 8, and the bucket 6 is driven by the bucket cylinder 9. A boom angle sensor S1 is attached to the boom 4, an arm angle sensor S2 is attached to the arm 5, and a bucket angle sensor S3 is attached to the bucket 6.

[0024] The boom angle sensor S1 is configured to detect the rotation angle of the boom 4. In this embodiment, the boom angle sensor S1 is an acceleration sensor and can detect the rotation angle of the boom 4 relative to the upper slewing body 3 (hereinafter referred to as "boom angle"). The boom angle is smallest when the boom 4 is lowered to its lowest position, and increases as the boom 4 is raised.

[0025] The arm angle sensor S2 is configured to detect the rotation angle of the arm 5. In this embodiment, the arm angle sensor S2 is an acceleration sensor and can detect the rotation angle of the arm 5 relative to the boom 4 (hereinafter referred to as "arm angle"). The arm angle is smallest when the arm 5 is closed to its shortest extent, and increases as the arm 5 is opened.

[0026] The bucket angle sensor S3 is configured to detect the rotation angle of the bucket 6. In this embodiment, the bucket angle sensor S3 is an acceleration sensor and can detect the rotation angle of the bucket 6 relative to the arm 5 (hereinafter referred to as the "bucket angle"). The bucket angle is smallest when the bucket 6 is closed to its fullest extent, and increases as the bucket 6 is opened.

[0027] The boom angle sensor S1, arm angle sensor S2, and bucket angle sensor S3 may each be a potentiometer using a variable resistor, a stroke sensor for detecting the stroke amount of the corresponding hydraulic cylinder, a rotary encoder for detecting the rotation angle around the connecting pin, a gyro sensor, or a combination of an acceleration sensor and a gyro sensor.

[0028] The boom cylinder 7 is equipped with a boom rod pressure sensor S7R and a boom bottom pressure sensor S7B. The arm cylinder 8 is equipped with an arm rod pressure sensor S8R and an arm bottom pressure sensor S8B.

[0029] The bucket cylinder 9 is equipped with a bucket rod pressure sensor S9R and a bucket bottom pressure sensor S9B. The boom rod pressure sensor S7R, boom bottom pressure sensor S7B, arm rod pressure sensor S8R, arm bottom pressure sensor S8B, bucket rod pressure sensor S9R, and bucket bottom pressure sensor S9B are collectively referred to as "cylinder pressure sensors".

[0030] The boom rod pressure sensor S7R detects the pressure in the rod-side oil chamber of the boom cylinder 7 (hereinafter referred to as "boom rod pressure"), and the boom bottom pressure sensor S7B detects the pressure in the bottom-side oil chamber of the boom cylinder 7 (hereinafter referred to as "boom bottom pressure"). The arm rod pressure sensor S8R detects the pressure in the rod-side oil chamber of the arm cylinder 8 (hereinafter referred to as "arm rod pressure"), and the arm bottom pressure sensor S8B detects the pressure in the bottom-side oil chamber of the arm cylinder 8 (hereinafter referred to as "arm bottom pressure").

[0031] The bucket rod pressure sensor S9R detects the pressure in the rod-side oil chamber of the bucket cylinder 9 (hereinafter referred to as "bucket rod pressure"), and the bucket bottom pressure sensor S9B detects the pressure in the bottom-side oil chamber of the bucket cylinder 9 (hereinafter referred to as "bucket bottom pressure").

[0032] The upper rotating body 3 is equipped with a cabin 10, which serves as the driver's cab, and a power source such as an engine 11. A sensor for detecting CO2 emissions may also be provided near the exhaust mechanism of the engine 11.

[0033] Furthermore, the upper rotating body 3 is equipped with a controller 30, a display device 40, an input device D2, an audio output device 43, a storage device 47, a positioning device 73, an aircraft tilt sensor S4, a rotation angular velocity sensor S5, an imaging device S6, and a communication device T1.

[0034] The upper rotating body 3 may be equipped with a power storage unit for supplying electricity, and a motor-generator that generates electricity using the rotational driving force of the engine 11. The power storage unit may be, for example, a capacitor or a lithium-ion battery. The motor-generator may function as an electric motor to drive a mechanical load, or as a generator to supply power to an electrical load.

[0035] The controller 30 functions as a main control unit that controls the drive of the shovel 100. In this embodiment, the controller 30 is composed of a computer including a CPU, RAM, and ROM. Various functions of the controller 30 are realized, for example, by the CPU executing a program stored in ROM. These functions may include, for example, at least one of a machine guidance function that guides the operator in manually operating the shovel 100, and a machine control function that automatically assists the operator in manually operating the shovel 100.

[0036] Furthermore, the controller 30 in this embodiment detects signs of clogging (blockage) of the DPF 50b and notifies the management device 200. The controller 30 may also notify the display device 40 of the shovel 100 of the signs of clogging of the DPF 50b.

[0037] In this embodiment, by detecting signs of clogging before the DPF 50b becomes clogged and notifying the control device 200, service personnel who manage the excavator 100 can be made aware that clogging of the DPF 50b of the excavator 100 is imminent.

[0038] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, service personnel can be encouraged to inspect the DPF50b early, thereby reducing downtime caused by clogging of the DPF50b.

[0039] The display device 40 is configured to display various types of information. The display device 40 may be connected to the controller 30 via a communication network such as CAN, or it may be connected to the controller 30 via a dedicated line.

[0040] The input device D2 is configured to allow the operator to input various information to the controller 30. The input device D2 includes at least one of the following, such as a touch panel, knob switch, and membrane switch, which are installed inside the cabin 10.

[0041] The audio output device 43 is configured to output sound. The audio output device 43 may be, for example, an in-vehicle speaker connected to the controller 30, or an alarm device such as a buzzer. In this embodiment, the audio output device 43 is configured to output various information as sound in response to an audio output command from the controller 30.

[0042] The storage device 47 is configured to store various types of information. The storage device 47 is, for example, a non-volatile storage medium such as a semiconductor memory. The storage device 47 may store information output by various devices during the operation of the shovel 100, or it may store information acquired via various devices before the operation of the shovel 100 begins.

[0043] The storage device 47 may store data relating to the target construction surface, for example, obtained via a communication device T1. The target construction surface may be set by the operator of the shovel 100, or by the construction manager or the like.

[0044] The positioning device 73 is configured to measure the position of the upper rotating body 3. The positioning device 73 may also be configured to measure the orientation of the upper rotating body 3. In this embodiment, the positioning device 73 is, for example, a GNSS compass, which detects the position and orientation of the upper rotating body 3 and outputs the detected values ​​to the controller 30. Therefore, the positioning device 73 can also function as an orientation detection device to detect the orientation of the upper rotating body 3. The orientation detection device may be an orientation sensor attached to the upper rotating body 3.

[0045] The machine body tilt sensor S4 is configured to detect the tilt of the upper rotating body 3. In this embodiment, the machine body tilt sensor S4 is an acceleration sensor that detects the longitudinal tilt angle of the upper rotating body 3 around the longitudinal axis and the lateral tilt angle around the lateral axis with respect to a virtual horizontal plane. The longitudinal axis and lateral axis of the upper rotating body 3 are orthogonal to each other at the shovel center point, which is a point on the rotation axis of the shovel 100.

[0046] The rotational angular velocity sensor S5 is configured to detect the rotational angular velocity of the upper rotating body 3. The rotational angular velocity sensor S5 may also be configured to detect or calculate the rotation angle of the upper rotating body 3. In this embodiment, the rotational angular velocity sensor S5 is a gyro sensor. The rotational angular velocity sensor S5 may also be a resolver, a rotary encoder, or the like.

[0047] The imaging device S6 is an example of a spatial recognition device and is configured to acquire images of the area around the shovel 100. In this embodiment, the imaging device S6 includes a front camera S6F for imaging the space in front of the shovel 100, a left camera S6L for imaging the space to the left of the shovel 100, a right camera S6R for imaging the space to the right of the shovel 100, and a rear camera S6B for imaging the space behind the shovel 100.

[0048] The imaging device S6 is, for example, a monocular camera having an image sensor such as a CCD or CMOS, and outputs the captured image to the display device 40. The imaging device S6 may also be a stereo camera, a depth image camera, etc. Furthermore, the imaging device S6 may be replaced with other spatial recognition devices such as a 3D depth image sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, a millimeter-wave radar, a LiDAR or an infrared sensor, or it may be replaced with a combination of other spatial recognition devices and a camera.

[0049] The front camera S6F is mounted, for example, on the ceiling of the cabin 10, i.e., inside the cabin 10. However, the front camera S6F may also be mounted on the roof of the cabin 10, the side of the boom 4, or other external locations within the cabin 10. The left camera S6L is mounted on the upper left end of the upper surface of the upper slewing body 3, the right camera S6R is mounted on the upper right end of the upper surface of the upper slewing body 3, and the rear camera S6B is mounted on the upper rear end of the upper surface of the upper slewing body 3. The image data captured by the imaging device S6 of this embodiment may be included in the operation information.

[0050] The communication device T1 is configured to control communication with external devices located outside the excavator 100. In this embodiment, the communication device T1 controls communication with external devices via a satellite communication network, a mobile phone communication network, or the Internet network. The external devices are, for example, a management device 200 such as a server installed in an external facility, or a support device such as a smartphone carried by a worker around the excavator 100.

[0051] Next, the drive system of the shovel 100 will be described with reference to Figure 2. Figure 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the drive system mounted on the shovel. In Figure 2, the mechanical power system, high-pressure hydraulic line, pilot line, and electrical control system are shown with double lines, solid lines, dashed lines, and dotted lines, respectively.

[0052] The excavator's drive system mainly includes the engine 11, regulator 13, main pump 14, control valve 17, operating devices 26a, 26b, gate lock lever 27, controller 30, engine controller 35, and exhaust system 50.

[0053] Engine 11 is the power source for the shovel and is, for example, a diesel engine as an internal combustion engine. Engine 11 is controlled by the engine controller 35 to maintain a predetermined rotational speed. The output shaft of engine 11 is connected to the input shaft of the main pump 14. In this embodiment, engine 11 is equipped with a rotational speed sensor 11a, a boost pressure sensor 11b, an atmospheric pressure sensor 11c, and a water temperature sensor 11d.

[0054] The rotation speed sensor 11a is a sensor that detects the rotation speed of the engine 11 and outputs the detected value to the engine controller 35.

[0055] The boost pressure sensor 11b is a sensor that detects the boost pressure of the engine 11 and outputs the detected value to the engine controller 35.

[0056] The atmospheric pressure sensor 11c is a sensor that detects the atmospheric pressure around the engine 11 and outputs the detected value to the engine controller 35.

[0057] The water temperature sensor 11d is a sensor that detects the temperature of the coolant in the engine 11 and outputs the detected value to the engine controller 35.

[0058] The regulator 13 is a device for controlling the discharge amount of the main pump 14. For example, it controls the discharge amount of the main pump 14 by adjusting the swash plate tilt angle of the main pump 14 in accordance with the discharge pressure of the main pump 14 or a control signal from the controller 30.

[0059] The main pump 14 is a device for supplying hydraulic fluid to the control valve 17 via a high-pressure hydraulic line, and is, for example, a swashplate type variable displacement hydraulic pump.

[0060] The discharge pressure sensor 14a is a pressure sensor that detects the discharge pressure of the main pump 14. In this embodiment, the discharge pressure sensor 14a detects the pressure of the hydraulic fluid in the high-pressure hydraulic line downstream of the main pump 14 and outputs the detected value to the controller 30.

[0061] The control valve 17 is a hydraulic control device that controls the hydraulic system in the excavator. The control valve 17 selectively supplies the hydraulic fluid discharged by the main pump 14 to one or more of the following: the boom cylinder 7, the arm cylinder 8, the bucket cylinder 9, the travel hydraulic motor (not shown), and the slewing hydraulic motor (not shown).

[0062] In Figure 2, the control valve 17 includes a boom switching valve 17a that controls the supply and discharge of hydraulic fluid to the boom cylinder 7, an arm switching valve 17b that controls the supply and discharge of hydraulic fluid to the arm cylinder 8, and a bucket switching valve 17c that controls the supply and discharge of hydraulic fluid to the bucket cylinder 9. For clarity, Figure 2 omits the illustration of the switching valves corresponding to the travel hydraulic motor and the slewing hydraulic motor, respectively. Furthermore, hereafter, the boom cylinder 7, arm cylinder 8, bucket cylinder 9, travel hydraulic motor, and slewing hydraulic motor are collectively referred to as the "hydraulic actuator."

[0063] Furthermore, a negative control throttle 18 is installed downstream of the control valve 17 for negative control (a method of controlling the discharge amount of the main pump 14, hereinafter referred to as "negative control"). The negative control pressure, which is the pressure of the hydraulic fluid upstream of the negative control throttle 18, is introduced to the regulator 13 via a negative control pilot line 19.

[0064] In this configuration, the discharge volume of the main pump 14 is controlled to increase as the negative control pressure decreases, thereby increasing the amount of hydraulic actuators operated. Furthermore, the discharge volume of the main pump 14 is limited to a predetermined amount (e.g., the minimum flow rate) when the negative control pressure exceeds a predetermined pressure, i.e., when none of the hydraulic actuators are being operated. Valve 20a is a relief valve connected in parallel to the negative control throttle 18, and opens when the negative control pressure rises excessively, discharging the hydraulic fluid upstream of the negative control throttle 18 to the tank. Valve 20b is a relief valve connected upstream of the control valve 17, and opens when the discharge pressure of the main pump 14 rises excessively, discharging a portion of the hydraulic fluid discharged by the main pump 14 to the tank.

[0065] Operating devices 26a and 26b are devices used by the operator to operate the hydraulic actuators. In this embodiment, the operations performed by operating devices 26a and 26b are transmitted to the corresponding switching valves via the switching valve lines. Specifically, operating device 26a is an operating lever for operating the boom cylinder 7 and the bucket cylinder 9, and operating device 26b is an operating lever for operating the arm cylinder 8.

[0066] The gate lock lever 27 is a device for switching the state of the shovel. In this embodiment, the gate lock lever 27 has a locked state that makes the shovel unusable and an unlocked state that makes the shovel usable. The "usable state" means a state in which the operator can operate the shovel, and the "unusable state" means a state in which the operator cannot operate the shovel.

[0067] The controller 30 is a control unit for controlling the shovel and has sub-control units such as a timing unit 30a, an anomaly detection unit 30b, a predictive detection unit 30c, and a cause determination unit 30d.

[0068] The engine controller 35 is a control unit for controlling the engine 11 and includes lower-level control units such as the internal combustion engine system (engine system) abnormality detection unit 35a. Details of the processing of each unit will be described later.

[0069] The exhaust system 50 is a system for discharging exhaust gas from the engine 11 to the outside. In this embodiment, the exhaust system 50 mainly includes an exhaust pipe 50a, a DPF 50b, and a differential pressure sensor 50c. The exhaust pipe 50a is connected to the exhaust port of the engine 11 and discharges the exhaust gas emitted by the engine 11 to the outside. The DPF 50b is a filter that collects PM in the exhaust gas flowing through the exhaust pipe 50a.

[0070] The differential pressure sensor 50c detects the differential pressure between the upstream and downstream pressures of the DPF 50b (hereinafter referred to as "DPF differential pressure") and outputs the detected value to the engine controller 35. The differential pressure sensor 50c may also consist of two pressure sensors, one for detecting the upstream pressure and the other for detecting the downstream pressure of the DPF 50b.

[0071] In this embodiment, the controller 30 executes processing for each component based on the output of the discharge pressure sensor 14a, gate lock lever 27, engine controller 35, etc., and outputs control signals to the display device 40 and management device 200 as appropriate according to the processing results.

[0072] The engine controller 35 performs processing by the engine system abnormality detection unit 35a based on the outputs of the rotation speed sensor 11a, boost pressure sensor 11b, atmospheric pressure sensor 11c, water temperature sensor 11d, differential pressure sensor 50c, etc. Subsequently, the engine controller 35 outputs control signals to the controller 30, etc., as appropriate according to the processing results of the engine system abnormality detection unit 35a. The engine controller 35 also transfers the detected value of the differential pressure sensor 50c to the controller 30. The differential pressure sensor 50c may also output the detected value directly to the controller 30.

[0073] Furthermore, the engine controller 35 executes a DPF 50b regeneration process when predetermined conditions are met. In this embodiment, the engine controller 35 automatically executes a DPF 50b regeneration process each time the operating time of the excavator reaches a predetermined time (for example, 8 hours). The DPF 50b regeneration process is a process that incinerates and removes PM (particulate matter) accumulated in the DPF 50b.

[0074] Furthermore, even if the operating time of the excavator has not reached a predetermined time, the engine controller 35 automatically performs DPF 50b regeneration processing if the DPF differential pressure detected by the differential pressure sensor 50c exceeds a predetermined pressure. In the following description, this predetermined pressure will be referred to as the regeneration execution threshold. The engine controller 35 may also perform regeneration processing in response to input from the operator via an input unit (not shown).

[0075] Furthermore, the engine controller 35 may output a notification to the controller 30 indicating that regeneration processing has been performed each time it performs regeneration processing on the DPF 50b.

[0076] Next, the functions of each part of the controller 30 in this embodiment will be described. The timing unit 30a in this embodiment measures the period from when the DPF 50b is regenerated until the next regeneration process is performed.

[0077] In this embodiment, the abnormality detection unit 30b detects an abnormality in the DPF 50b when the DPF differential pressure exceeds the abnormality detection threshold. In other words, when the DPF differential pressure exceeds the abnormality detection threshold, the abnormality detection unit 30b transmits an error code indicating the occurrence of an abnormality in the DPF 50b. The destination of the error code may be the display device 40 of the shovel 100 or the management device 200. The abnormality detection threshold in this embodiment is a value higher than the regeneration execution threshold, and is a threshold for detecting clogging of the DPF 50b as an abnormality in the DPF 50b.

[0078] In this embodiment, the predictive detection unit 30c detects signs of clogging in the DPF 50b when the DPF differential pressure exceeds the predictive detection threshold. In other words, when the DPF differential pressure exceeds the predictive detection threshold, the predictive detection unit 30c transmits an error code indicating the occurrence of clogging. The error code may be transmitted to the management device 200. The predictive detection threshold in this embodiment is a value lower than the regeneration execution threshold and is a threshold for detecting signs of clogging in the DPF 50b. Details of the predictive detection threshold will be described later.

[0079] The cause determination unit 30d determines whether the cause of the clogging or warning detected by the abnormality detection unit 30b or the warning detection unit 30c is due to an engine system abnormality or some other reason, and transmits a notification corresponding to the determination result to the control device 200 or the display device 40 of the shovel 100.

[0080] Specifically, if the engine system abnormality detection unit 35a has detected an abnormality in the engine system, the cause determination unit 30d will determine that the cause of the clogging or signs of clogging is due to an abnormality in the engine system.

[0081] Furthermore, if the engine system abnormality detection unit 35a has not detected an engine system abnormality, the cause determination unit 30d will determine that the cause of the clogging or signs of clogging is due to a reason other than an engine system abnormality.

[0082] Reasons other than engine-related malfunctions include, for example, the supply of substandard fuel to a Shovel 100, or the supply of engine oil that is not compatible with the DPF50b to a Shovel 100.

[0083] Next, the function of the engine system abnormality detection unit 35a of the engine controller 35 will be described.

[0084] The engine system abnormality detection unit 35a in this embodiment is a functional element that determines whether or not there is an abnormality in the engine system. In this embodiment, the engine system abnormality detection unit 35a determines that there is an abnormality in the engine system when it detects an abnormality in the atmospheric pressure sensor 11c based on the output of the atmospheric pressure sensor 11c. This is because if the atmospheric pressure sensor 11c fails, the engine 11 cannot use the output of the atmospheric pressure sensor 11c and is forced to determine the fuel injection timing on the premise that the atmospheric pressure is at a predetermined pressure.

[0085] In other words, the engine 11 is unable to inject fuel at the optimal injection timing, making it easier to emit black smoke (soot). Furthermore, the increased emission of black smoke (soot) makes the DPF more prone to clogging. When the engine system abnormality detection unit 35a determines that there is an abnormality in the engine system, it displays a warning message to the operator on the display device 40.

[0086] Specifically, when the engine system abnormality detection unit 35a detects an abnormality in the atmospheric pressure sensor 11c, it displays a warning message on the display device 40 indicating the abnormality of the atmospheric pressure sensor 11c. The engine system abnormality detection unit 35a may also transmit the warning message externally via communication to prompt the operator or other relevant parties to inspect the atmospheric pressure sensor 11c. The engine system abnormality detection unit 35a also stores its determination result in the controller 30 for reference.

[0087] Here, the predictive detection threshold of this embodiment will be described.

[0088] In this embodiment, the DPF differential pressure is the pressure difference between the upstream and downstream pressures of the DPF 50b. Therefore, the DPF differential pressure increases as the amount of particulate matter deposited in the DPF 50b increases.

[0089] Particulate matter in the DPF50b is normally removed by incineration through periodic regeneration. However, if, for example, poor quality fuel is supplied to the Shovel 100, a large amount of sulfate, ash, etc. will accumulate in the DPF compared to high-quality fuel. Even if the DPF50b regeneration process is performed automatically, these substances will not be burned off, causing clogging of the DPF50b. This is because sulfate, ash, etc. have high melting points. The same applies if inappropriate oil is used.

[0090] As the DPF50b begins to clog, the DPF differential pressure after regeneration gradually increases, and the regeneration interval shortens. If the clogging of the DPF50b progresses further and the DPF differential pressure rises to a value higher than the regeneration execution threshold (which is set to a higher value), it will be detected as a DPF50b malfunction. In this case, the DPF50b needs to be replaced.

[0091] In this embodiment, we focus on such changes in DPF differential pressure to detect signs of clogging (abnormality) in DPF 50b.

[0092] More specifically, in this embodiment, a value lower than the regeneration execution threshold for the DPF differential pressure is set as the predictive detection threshold, and when the DPF differential pressure exceeds the predictive detection threshold, it is detected as a sign of clogging in the DPF 50b.

[0093] A state in which the DPF differential pressure exceeds the warning detection threshold indicates that the DPF differential pressure is increasing despite regular regeneration treatment being performed. In other words, this state can be described as a condition in which the particulate matter accumulated in the DPF50b is not sufficiently removed by regular regeneration treatment, and clogging of the DPF50b has begun.

[0094] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the predictive detection threshold may be set as a two-stage value. Specifically, for example, a first predictive detection threshold lower than the playback execution threshold may be provided, and a second predictive detection threshold that is higher than the first predictive detection threshold and lower than the playback execution threshold may be provided.

[0095] In this case, a DPF differential pressure exceeding the first warning threshold is detected as the first warning, and a DPF differential pressure exceeding the second warning threshold is detected as the second warning. The second warning indicates that clogging has progressed more than the first warning, and therefore requires more attention than the first warning.

[0096] More specifically, in this embodiment, the first warning sign can be said to be a signal to the service technician to identify the excavator 100 as showing signs of clogging. The second warning sign can be said to be a signal to the service technician that it is time to consider the planned replacement of the DPF 50b.

[0097] In this embodiment, by setting multiple predictive detection thresholds, the service technician can gain a more detailed understanding of the DPF50b's condition. Furthermore, according to this embodiment, maintenance of the DPF50b can be planned systematically, and downtime due to clogging of the DPF50b can be reduced.

[0098] The anomaly detection threshold, the first predictive detection threshold, and the second predictive detection threshold of this embodiment will be described below with reference to Figure 3.

[0099] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing the relationship between the operating time of the excavator and the DPF differential pressure. Figure 3 shows the relationship between the operating time of the excavator and the DPF differential pressure when the DPF 50b in excavator 100 becomes clogged prematurely, and the relationship between the operating time of the excavator and the DPF differential pressure under normal circumstances.

[0100] Figure 3 below primarily explains the case where DPF50b becomes clogged prematurely, which is when a significant change in DPF differential pressure is observed.

[0101] In Figure 3, the solid triangular wave TC represents the temporal change in DPF differential pressure when DPF50b clogs prematurely, while the dashed triangular wave TC1 represents the temporal change in DPF differential pressure under normal circumstances. Furthermore, the solid upward-sloping BC represents the temporal change in the reference DPF differential pressure when DPF50b clogs prematurely, while the dashed upward-sloping BC1 represents the temporal change in the reference DPF differential pressure under normal circumstances. Note that "reference DPF differential pressure" refers to the estimated value of the DPF differential pressure after regeneration, derived from the operating time.

[0102] As described above, the DPF50b is automatically regenerated each time the excavator's operating time reaches a predetermined period (e.g., 8 hours). Therefore, as shown in Figure 3, the DPF differential pressure changes in a triangular wave pattern in both cases until it exceeds the regeneration threshold Pth (see dotted line). That is, after one regeneration process, the DPF differential pressure gradually increases as the excavator's operating time increases until the next regeneration process is performed, and is then reduced by subsequent regeneration processes. In this case, the regeneration interval Ta when the DPF50b becomes clogged early, and the regeneration interval Ta1 in the normal case, are both equal to the predetermined period.

[0103] Furthermore, if the DPF differential pressure output by the differential pressure sensor 50c exceeds the regeneration execution threshold Pth, the DPF 50b will automatically perform regeneration even if the operating time of the excavator since the last regeneration process is less than a predetermined time. The dotted circle 301 in Figure 3 indicates the state where the DPF differential pressure exceeds the regeneration execution threshold Pth. In this case, while the execution interval Tb1 for regeneration in the normal case is equal to the predetermined time, the execution interval Tb for regeneration when the DPF 50b is clogged prematurely will be less than the predetermined time.

[0104] Furthermore, as shown in the transition BC1, the standard DPF differential pressure in normal circumstances initially rises at a relatively high rate, but then levels off once the cumulative operating time of the excavator reaches a certain point. This is because, initially, PM accumulates on the peripheral portion of DPF50b, which cannot be removed by regeneration. After the cumulative operating time of the excavator reaches a certain point, the PM accumulated on the portion that can be removed by regeneration is repeatedly burned and removed by the regeneration process.

[0105] On the other hand, as shown in the trend BC, when the DPF50b becomes clogged early, the standard DPF differential pressure continues to rise at a higher rate than in normal cases, even after the cumulative operating time of the excavator has reached a certain amount. This is because PM such as ash, which cannot be removed by regeneration, gradually accumulates inside the DPF50b.

[0106] Furthermore, the average rate of increase in DPF differential pressure between two consecutive regeneration processes is higher when the DPF50b becomes clogged prematurely compared to normal conditions. This is because when the DPF50b becomes clogged prematurely, the amount of PM emissions, such as black smoke (soot), is higher than in normal conditions.

[0107] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a first anomaly detection threshold P1 is set to a value lower than the playback execution threshold Pth, and a second anomaly detection threshold P2 is set between the first anomaly detection threshold P1 and the playback execution threshold Pth.

[0108] The dotted circle 302 in Figure 3 indicates a state where the DPF differential pressure exceeds the first warning threshold P1. In this embodiment, this state, where the DPF differential pressure is equal to or greater than the first warning threshold P1, is detected as a first warning indicating that the reference DPF differential pressure has begun to rise.

[0109] Furthermore, the dotted circle 303 in Figure 3 indicates a state where the DPF differential pressure exceeds the second warning detection threshold P2. In this embodiment, this state, where the DPF differential pressure is equal to or greater than the second warning detection threshold P2, is detected as a second warning indicating a continuous rise in the reference DPF differential pressure.

[0110] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a state in which the DPF differential pressure exceeds the abnormality detection threshold P3 is detected as an abnormal state requiring replacement of the DPF 50b.

[0111] In the example shown in Figure 3, the detection methods for the first and second warning signs were explained by referring to the relationship between the operating time of the excavator and the DPF differential pressure when the DPF 50b in the excavator 100 becomes clogged prematurely. However, the detection methods for the first and second warning signs are also applicable in normal circumstances.

[0112] Furthermore, in this embodiment, for example, if an engine oil other than the engine oil corresponding to the DPF50b is supplied to the shovel 100, the same phenomenon as when the DPF50b becomes clogged prematurely may occur.

[0113] Therefore, in this embodiment, even if inappropriate engine oil is supplied to the shovel 100, the downtime caused by clogging of the DPF 50b can be reduced.

[0114] Next, referring to Figure 4, we will explain the frequency of regeneration processing in the shovel 100 and the detection of warning signs and abnormalities. Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating the frequency of regeneration processing in the shovel and the detection of warning signs and abnormalities.

[0115] In the example in Figure 4, the horizontal axis represents the operating time of the shovel 100 (T1 is defined as the time elapsed since the last filter replacement, and the operating time thereafter is shown), and it shows the timing of the regeneration process, the timing of the detection of a warning sign, and the timing of the detection of an abnormality.

[0116] Specifically, in Figure 4, the black circles within the dotted ellipses 401, 402, and 403 indicate the timing of the DPF50b regeneration process. Also in Figure 4, the black circle within the dotted ellipse 404 indicates the timing of the first warning sign detection, the black circle within the dotted circle 405 indicates the timing of the second warning sign detection, and the black circle within the dotted circle 406 indicates the timing of the abnormality detection.

[0117] In the example in Figure 4, until the operating time of the shovel 100 reaches approximately T4 hours, regeneration is performed approximately every 8 hours, as indicated by the black circles within the dotted ellipse 401. Then, in the example in Figure 4, once the operating time of the shovel 100 exceeds T4 hours, variations begin to be observed in the intervals at which regeneration is performed, as indicated by the black circles within the dotted ellipse 402.

[0118] This condition indicates that, during a certain period of time between regeneration processes, the DPF differential pressure exceeds the regeneration execution threshold Pth.

[0119] Furthermore, when the operating time of the shovel 100 exceeds T5 hours, regeneration processes become frequent, as indicated by the dotted ellipse 403. This condition indicates that even with regeneration, the particulate matter accumulated in the DPF 50b is not removed, and the standard DPF differential pressure does not decrease sufficiently.

[0120] Furthermore, as shown by the black circle within the dotted ellipse 404 in Figure 4, the first warning sign is detected when the operating time of the shovel 100 reaches a time approximately midway between T2 and T3. The period K1 during which the first warning sign is detected is the period during which the DPF 50b is periodically regenerated.

[0121] During period K1, the triangular wave peak value indicating the DPF differential pressure has not reached the regeneration execution threshold Pth, but the reference DPF differential pressure has gradually begun to rise, indicating a state where the triangular wave peak value indicating the DPF differential pressure is equal to or greater than the first predictive detection threshold P1.

[0122] Furthermore, as shown by the black circle within the dotted circle 405 in Figure 4, a second warning sign is detected when the operating time of the shovel 100 exceeds T4 hours. The period K2 during which the second warning sign is detected is the period during which variations begin to appear in the intervals at which the DPF 50b is regenerated.

[0123] During period K2, the triangular waveform peak value indicating the DPF differential pressure did not reach the regeneration execution threshold Pth, but the reference DPF differential pressure continued to rise, indicating a state where the triangular waveform peak value indicating the DPF differential pressure exceeded the second predictive detection threshold P2.

[0124] Furthermore, as shown by the black circle within the dotted circle 406 in Figure 4, an abnormality in DPF50b is detected when the operating time of the shovel 100 exceeds 1110 hours. In this case, the triangular wave-shaped peak value indicating the DPF differential pressure rises to the abnormality detection threshold P3, indicating that even with regeneration processing, the fine particles accumulated in DPF50b cannot be removed.

[0125] Thus, it can be seen that clogging of the DPF50b is detected during period K3, when the DPF50b regeneration process occurs frequently.

[0126] In other words, the first and second warning signs are detected before regeneration processes become frequent. To put it another way, the first and second warning signs are detected when the DPF50b regeneration process is functioning normally, before clogging of the DPF50b is detected.

[0127] The processing of the controller 30 of the shovel 100 in this embodiment will be described below with reference to Figures 5 and 6. Figure 5 is a first flowchart illustrating the processing of the shovel controller. Note that the processing shown in Figure 5 may be started when the shovel 100 is started.

[0128] In this embodiment, the controller 30 of the excavator 100 acquires the DPF differential pressure (step S501), and the abnormality detection unit 30b determines whether or not clogging of the DPF 50b has been detected (step S502). Specifically, the abnormality detection unit 30b determines whether or not the DPF differential pressure has exceeded the abnormality detection threshold.

[0129] If clogging of the DPF 50b is detected in step S502, the controller 30 proceeds to step S505, which will be described later.

[0130] If no abnormality is detected in step S502, the predictive detection unit 30c determines whether a second predictive condition has been detected (step S503). Specifically, the predictive detection unit 30c determines whether the DPF differential pressure has exceeded the second predictive condition detection threshold.

[0131] If a second warning sign is detected in step S503, the controller 30 proceeds to step S505, which will be described later.

[0132] In step S503, if no second warning is detected, the warning detection unit 30c determines whether or not a first warning has been detected (step S504). Specifically, the warning detection unit 30c determines whether or not the DPF differential pressure has exceeded the first warning detection threshold.

[0133] If no first warning sign is detected in step S504, the controller 30 returns to step S501.

[0134] In step S506, if the first warning sign is detected, the controller 30 performs a determination process using the cause determination unit 30d to determine the cause of the blockage or warning sign (step S505). Details of step S505 will be described later.

[0135] Next, the controller 30 determines whether or not the engine 11 of the shovel 100 has been turned off (step S506).

[0136] If the engine 11 is not turned off in step S506, the controller 30 returns to step S501. If the engine 11 is turned off in step S506, the controller 30 terminates processing.

[0137] Next, with reference to Figure 6, the processing of the cause determination unit 30d in this embodiment will be described. Figure 6 is a second flowchart illustrating the processing of the shovel controller. Figure 6 shows the details of the processing in step S505 of Figure 5.

[0138] In this embodiment, the cause determination unit 30d performs the process shown in Figure 6 when clogging is detected by the abnormality detection unit 30b, or when the first or second warning sign is detected by the warning sign detection unit 30c.

[0139] The cause determination unit 30d checks whether there is an engine system abnormality based on the determination result of the engine system abnormality detection unit 35a in the engine controller 35 (step S601).

[0140] In step S601, if the engine system abnormality detection unit 35a determines that there is an engine system abnormality, the cause determination unit 30d determines that the cause of the detected blockage or signs of blockage is an engine system abnormality and notifies that there is an engine system abnormality (step S602).

[0141] The controller 30 may display this notification on the display device 40, or it may transmit it to the management device 200 and display it on the management device 200's display device. The content of the notification may be a warning message indicating that there is an abnormality in the engine system.

[0142] For example, an increase in black smoke (soot) emissions, which is one of the causes of clogging of the DPF50b, can also be caused by factors such as a malfunction of the atmospheric pressure sensor 11c and the use of substandard fuel. Since an abnormality has been detected in 1c, inspection of the atmospheric pressure sensor 11c should be given top priority. Therefore, in this embodiment, an abnormality in the engine system is notified.

[0143] On the other hand, if the engine system abnormality detection unit 35a determines in step S601 that there is no engine system abnormality, the cause determination unit 30d issues a notification corresponding to the result detected in the process shown in Figure 5 (step S603).

[0144] Specifically, if the predictive detection unit 30c has detected a first predictive event, the controller 30 generates an error code corresponding to the first predictive event and transmits the error code along with the aircraft's serial number to the management device 200. Furthermore, the judgment process shown in Figure 6 is not necessarily required to be set.

[0145] When the control device 200 receives an error code, it displays a message corresponding to the first warning on the display device. Specifically, the message corresponding to the first warning may be, for example, "Minor differential pressure abnormality."

[0146] Therefore, in this embodiment, when the regeneration process of DPF50b is performed periodically, the service technician can be made aware that the DPF differential pressure of DPF50b has begun to rise.

[0147] Furthermore, if the predictive detection unit 30c detects a second predictive error, the controller 30 of this embodiment generates an error code corresponding to the second predictive error and transmits the error code along with the aircraft's serial number to the management device 200.

[0148] When the control device 200 receives an error code, it displays a message corresponding to the second warning on the display device. Specifically, the message corresponding to the second warning may be, for example, "Abnormal differential pressure (contact required)."

[0149] Therefore, in this embodiment, when variations occur in the intervals at which the DPF50b is regenerated, the service technician can be made aware of the need to inspect the DPF50b.

[0150] Furthermore, the management device 200 of this embodiment can set multiple predictive detection thresholds and change the content of the message displayed to the service technician according to the stage of the predictive detection, thereby enabling the service technician to understand the status of the DPF50b in stages.

[0151] Furthermore, if the abnormality detection unit 30b detects clogging of the DPF 50b, the controller 30 of this embodiment generates an error code corresponding to the abnormality and transmits the error code along with the aircraft's serial number to the management device 200.

[0152] When the control device 200 receives an error code, it causes the display device to show a message indicating that a blockage has been detected. Specifically, the message indicating that a blockage has been detected may be, for example, "Alarm (Filter Replacement)".

[0153] In this embodiment, the management device 200 may be a general-purpose computer having a processor and memory. The management device 200 may also have a function that displays notification content corresponding to the error code received from the excavator 100 by having the processor read and execute a program stored in memory. In other words, as one of the functions realized by the processor, the management device 200 has a display control unit that, when it receives a notification from the excavator 100 indicating the detection of an impending abnormality in the DPF 50b, displays information on a display device corresponding to the content of the received notification.

[0154] Next, with reference to Figure 7, an example of the display of the management device 200 in this embodiment will be described. Figure 7 is a diagram showing an example of the display of the management device.

[0155] The screen 201 shown in Figure 7 includes display areas 202 and 203. Display area 202 displays a map including the current location of the shovel 100 selected in display area 203.

[0156] The display area 203 displays information indicating the status of each shovel 100 managed by the control device 200.

[0157] Specifically, display area 203 displays the machine number of Shovel 100, information indicating the status of Shovel 100's DPF50b, and the name of the user (customer) of Shovel 100.

[0158] In the example on screen 201, the status of the DPF50b of Shovel 100 identified by machine number "SM01" is displayed as "Differential pressure abnormality (mild)," corresponding to the first warning sign. Also, the status of the DPF50b of Shovel 100 identified by machine number "SM05" is displayed as "Differential pressure abnormality (contact required)," corresponding to the second warning sign. Furthermore, the status of the DPF50b of Shovel 100 identified by machine number "ST11" is displayed as "Warning (filter replacement)," corresponding to the abnormality.

[0159] Furthermore, on screen 201, the service technician has selected Shovel 100, identified by machine number "SM05," and the display area 202 and others show a map including the current location of Shovel 100, identified as "SM05."

[0160] In this embodiment, by displaying map information including excavators 100 that are nearing maintenance time or require maintenance, service personnel can be made aware of the location of the excavators 100 that need maintenance.

[0161] Figure 8 shows an example of a display in the support device. The support device in this embodiment is, for example, a smartphone carried by a service technician.

[0162] Figure 8 shows an example of a screen displayed on the support device 300 when, for example, a service technician is heading to a work site where the excavator 100 to be maintained is located.

[0163] Screen 310 includes an input field 311a and display areas 312 and 313. Input field 311a may be an input field for entering a predetermined range. Note that input field 311a does not have to be displayed on screen 310.

[0164] The display area 312 shows a map of a certain area centered on the selected shovel 100, and an icon 312a indicating the location of the selected construction machine.

[0165] The display area 313 shows information 313a regarding the maintenance details of the shovel 100 and an operation button 313b for transitioning screen 310 to the schedule input screen. Figure 8 shows, for example, the case where the machine number "SM05" is selected on screen 201 shown in Figure 7, and information regarding the machine number "SM05" is displayed on the support device. Therefore, in the display area 313, "Differential pressure abnormality (contact required)" indicating the status of the DPF 50b is displayed as information 313a regarding the maintenance details of the shovel 100.

[0166] In this embodiment, information regarding the excavator 100, which has detected signs of an abnormality in the DPF 50b, can be displayed on the support device 300 held by the service technician. Therefore, according to this embodiment, maintenance work by the service technician can be supported.

[0167] In this embodiment, a first and second warning threshold are set, and when the DPF differential pressure exceeds the respective threshold, the first and second warnings are detected, respectively. However, the embodiment is not limited to this.

[0168] For example, in this embodiment, only a first predictive detection threshold may be set, and a second predictive detection may be detected when the interval between the DPF differential pressures being equal to or greater than the first predictive detection threshold falls below a certain time.

[0169] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a second warning sign may be detected when the number of times the DPF differential pressure exceeds the first warning detection threshold exceeds a predetermined number of times (for example, 3 times or more). In addition, in this embodiment, a second warning sign may be detected when the interval between times the DPF differential pressure exceeds the first warning detection threshold is less than a predetermined period. In other words, the second warning sign may be detected based on the number of times the first warning sign is detected or the interval between times the first warning sign is detected.

[0170] Furthermore, although two predictive detection thresholds are set in this embodiment, it is not limited to this. Three or more predictive detection thresholds may be set in this embodiment.

[0171] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a precursor detection threshold is set with respect to the DPF differential pressure, which is lower than the regeneration execution threshold Pth, in order to detect signs of clogging. However, the method for detecting signs of clogging is not limited to this.

[0172] In this embodiment, for example, if the interval between periodic regeneration processes is 8 hours, a period shorter than this periodic interval may be set as the predictive detection threshold.

[0173] In other words, in this embodiment, the predictive detection threshold may be set relative to the interval of the regeneration process.

[0174] If the predictive detection threshold is set to 7 hours, then if a regeneration process is performed at a certain time and then again within 7 hours, this may be detected as the first predictive event.

[0175] Furthermore, in this embodiment, multiple predictive detection thresholds may be set in stages for the interval between regeneration processes. Specifically, for example, the first predictive detection threshold for detecting the first predictive detection may be set to 7 hours, and the second predictive detection threshold for detecting the second predictive detection may be set to 6 hours.

[0176] In this embodiment, if the next playback process is performed within 6 hours of the previous playback process being performed at a certain time, this may be detected as a second warning sign.

[0177] The embodiments for carrying out the present invention have been described above, but the above description does not limit the scope of the invention, and various modifications and improvements are possible within the scope of the present invention. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0178] 1. Lower running body 2. Swivel mechanism 3. Upper rotating body 30 controllers 30b Anomaly detection unit 30c Predictive detection unit 30d Cause determination section 100 Shovel 200 Management device

Claims

1. Lower running body and An upper slewing body is mounted on the lower traveling body so as to be rotatable, The internal combustion engine mounted on the upper rotating body, A shovel having a pressure sensor that detects the differential pressure between the upstream pressure and the downstream pressure of a filter that collects particulate matter in the exhaust gas, which is provided in the exhaust passage of the internal combustion engine, The system includes a control unit that detects a first indicator indicating that the estimated differential pressure after the filter regeneration process, derived from the operating time of the excavator, has begun to rise, and a second indicator indicating that the estimated differential pressure is continuously rising, and notifies the detection results. The control unit, Based on the number of times the differential pressure exceeds a predictive detection threshold, which is a value lower than the regeneration execution threshold for automatically executing the regeneration process of the filter, or the interval at which the differential pressure exceeds the predictive detection threshold, it is determined whether or not the second predictive indication, which indicates that clogging has progressed beyond the first predictive indication, has been detected. If the second warning sign is not detected, and the differential pressure exceeds the warning sign detection threshold, the first warning sign is detected. A shovel that displays a message on a display device corresponding to the stage of the detected warning sign.

2. Multiple predictive detection thresholds are set, The control unit, When the differential pressure becomes equal to or greater than a first warning detection threshold, which is lower than the regeneration execution threshold, the first warning is detected. The excavator according to claim 1, wherein when the differential pressure is higher than the first warning detection threshold and lower than the regeneration execution threshold, a second warning is detected indicating that clogging has progressed further than the first warning.

3. A value higher than the aforementioned playback execution threshold is set, and an abnormality detection threshold for detecting clogging of the filter is set. The control unit, The excavator according to claim 1 or 2, which detects an abnormality in the filter based on the differential pressure and the abnormality detection threshold, and notifies the detection result.

4. The control unit, A shovel according to any one of claims 1 to 3, which, after the first or second warning sign is detected, determines whether there is an abnormality in the internal combustion engine and, if there is an abnormality in the internal combustion engine, notifies the user of that fact.

5. A control device for an excavator, A management device for an excavator, comprising: a pressure sensor that detects the differential pressure between the upstream and downstream pressures of a filter that collects particulate matter in the exhaust gas provided in the exhaust passage of an internal combustion engine, the excavator, upon receiving a notification that a first warning has been detected indicating that the estimated value of the differential pressure after regeneration processing of the filter, derived from the operating time of the excavator, has begun to rise, and a second warning indicating that the estimated value of the differential pressure is continuously rising, the display control unit displays information corresponding to the notification, and determines whether the second warning, indicating that clogging has progressed beyond the first warning, has been detected based on the number of times the differential pressure is lower than a regeneration execution threshold for automatically performing regeneration processing of the filter, or the interval at which the differential pressure is higher than the warning detection threshold, and if the second warning is not detected, the first warning is detected when the differential pressure becomes higher than the warning detection threshold, and a message corresponding to the stage of the detected warning is displayed on the display device.

Images