Work vehicle

Abstract

To provide a work vehicle that can provide improved operability and transport performance.SOLUTION: A work vehicle includes: a vehicle body including a vehicle body frame 8 and a load carrying platform 9 mounted on the vehicle body frame 8; a travel unit configured to allow the vehicle body to travel; an operation member 18 disposed behind the vehicle body to operate the travel unit; a support frame 20 extending rearward from a rear portion of the vehicle body frame 8 to support the operation member 18; and a support mechanism 21 supporting a front end portion of the support frame 20 swingably about a swing shaft center X4 extending in a vehicle body lateral direction. Upper surfaces of the vehicle body frame 8 are formed flush with each other.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, as a work vehicle, a work vehicle capable of traveling on rough ground (places with steps or unevenness) is known (for example, see Patent Document 1). The work vehicle described in Patent Document 1 includes a vehicle body, a traveling device that causes the vehicle body to travel, and an operation member for operating the traveling device.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the work vehicle described in Patent Document 1, there is room for improvement in terms of improving operability and transportability.

[0005]

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The features of the present invention are a vehicle body having a vehicle body frame and a loading platform provided on the vehicle body frame, a traveling device for causing the vehicle body to travel, an operation member provided behind the vehicle body for operating the traveling device, a support frame that projects rearward from the rear portion of the vehicle body frame and supports the operation member, and a support mechanism that supports the front end portion of the support frame so as to be swingable around a swing axis extending along the vehicle body left-right direction. The upper surface of the vehicle body frame is formed on the same plane. Occasionally, The support mechanism is configured to hold the support frame at any position around the pivot axis, The downward swing angle of the support frame around the pivot axis is greater than the upward swing angle of the support frame around the pivot axis. It is the matter.

[0007] According to this feature configuration, the support frame is oscillated around the pivot axis by the support mechanism, allowing the operator to adjust the height position of the operating member. Furthermore, since the upper surface of the vehicle frame is formed on the same plane, the loading platform is supported by the upper surface of the vehicle frame. This allows the loading platform to be firmly supported by the vehicle frame. In other words, this feature configuration makes it possible to realize a work vehicle that can improve operability and transportability.

[0008]

[0009] According to this feature configuration, the support frame is held at any position around the pivot axis by the support mechanism, thereby maintaining the height position of the operating member.

[0010]

[0011] With this feature configuration, the support frame is swung significantly downwards around the pivot axis, making it less likely for the operating components to get in the way when the work vehicle is loaded onto a transport vehicle (e.g., a truck).

[0012] Another feature of the present invention is , A vehicle body having a vehicle frame and a cargo bed provided on the vehicle frame, A traveling device for moving the aforementioned vehicle body, An operating member provided at the rear of the vehicle body for operating the running gear, A support frame extending rearward from the rear of the vehicle body frame and supporting the operating member, The support mechanism includes a support mechanism that supports the front end of the support frame so that it can pivot around a pivot axis extending along the left-right direction of the vehicle body, The upper surface of the vehicle body frame is formed on the same plane, The aforementioned support frame is An overhanging frame extending rearward from the rear of the aforementioned vehicle body frame, It has a rear frame provided behind the operation member and extending upward from the rear end portion of the protruding frame. It is the matter.

[0013] According to this characteristic configuration, when the operation member is an operation lever, when an operator is located behind the operation member and operates the operation member, it is easy to operate the operation member by placing an arm on the rear frame or grasping the rear frame. Also, the rear frame can prevent the operator from getting too close to the inside of the vehicle body of the work vehicle.

[0014] Furthermore, in the present invention, the vehicle body frame has left and right first frames extending along the longitudinal direction of the vehicle body, and a plurality of second frames provided across the left first frame and the right first frame and extending along the lateral direction of the vehicle body. It is preferable to have a plurality of third frames extending outward in the lateral direction of the vehicle body from each of the left and right first frames.

[0015] According to this characteristic configuration, the vehicle body frame can be configured to have a planar spread and a strong structure.

[0016] Furthermore, in the present invention, bolt holes extending in the vertical direction are formed in the vehicle body frame, and it is preferable that an opening for exposing the bolt holes is formed in a portion of the loading platform located above the bolt holes.

[0017] According to this characteristic configuration, since the bolt holes are exposed from the opening, bolt-shaped members can be attached to the bolt holes from above the loading platform.

[0018] Another feature of the present invention is, A vehicle body having a vehicle frame and a cargo bed provided on the vehicle frame, A traveling device for moving the aforementioned vehicle body, An operating member provided at the rear of the vehicle body for operating the running gear, A support frame extending rearward from the rear of the vehicle body frame and supporting the operating member, The support mechanism includes a support mechanism that supports the front end of the support frame so that it can pivot around a pivot axis extending along the left-right direction of the vehicle body, The upper surface of the vehicle body frame is formed on the same plane, The vehicle frame has mounting parts formed on it to which objects placed on the cargo bed can be attached. An opening is formed in the portion of the cargo bed above the mounting portion to expose the mounting portion. It is the matter.

[0019] With this feature configuration, since the mounting part is exposed through the opening, objects can be attached to the mounting part from above the cargo bed.

[0020] Furthermore, in the present invention, It is preferable that an opening that opens in the vertical direction is formed on the outer periphery of the cargo bed.

[0021] This configuration allows rainwater, sand, dust, and other debris on the cargo bed to be discharged through the opening.

[0022] Furthermore, in the present invention, Preferably, the loading platform has a deck on which the loaded object is placed, and an edge provided on the outer periphery of the deck.

[0023] This feature configuration allows the deck to be reinforced by its edges.

[0024] Another feature of the present invention is , A vehicle body having a vehicle frame and a cargo bed provided on the vehicle frame, A traveling device for moving the aforementioned vehicle body, An operating member provided at the rear of the vehicle body for operating the running gear, A support frame extending rearward from the rear of the vehicle body frame and supporting the operating member, The support mechanism includes a support mechanism that supports the front end of the support frame so that it can pivot around a pivot axis extending along the left-right direction of the vehicle body, The upper surface of the vehicle body frame is formed on the same plane, The aforementioned vehicle body is The vehicle body frame has a vehicle body cover provided on the outer periphery and covering the vehicle body frame, The front, rear, left, and right sides of the aforementioned vehicle body cover have flat surfaces. It is the matter.

[0025] With this feature configuration, sand, dust, and other debris are less likely to accumulate on the front, rear, left, and right sides of the vehicle cover.

[0026] Furthermore, in the present invention, Preferably, at least one of the front, rear, left, and right sides of the vehicle body cover is flush with the outer edge of the cargo bed or positioned inside the vehicle body beyond the outer edge of the cargo bed.

[0027] With this feature configuration, at least one of the front, rear, left, and right sides of the vehicle cover does not protrude outside the vehicle body from the outer edge of the cargo bed, thus allowing the vehicle cover to be made compact.

[0028] Another feature of the present invention is , A vehicle body having a vehicle frame and a cargo bed provided on the vehicle frame, A traveling device for moving the aforementioned vehicle body, An operating member provided at the rear of the vehicle body for operating the running gear, A support frame extending rearward from the rear of the vehicle body frame and supporting the operating member, The support mechanism includes a support mechanism that supports the front end of the support frame so that it can pivot around a pivot axis extending along the left-right direction of the vehicle body, The upper surface of the vehicle body frame is formed on the same plane, The engine is located below the vehicle body, The engine is provided with left and right engine covers, respectively, which cover the engine from the left and right, respectively. The engine cover has a ventilation opening. It is the matter.

[0029] This configuration allows the engine to be protected by the engine cover. Furthermore, the engine can be cooled by providing ventilation through the vents.

[0030] Furthermore, in the present invention, Multiple running gears located at the front and rear on both the left and right sides of the vehicle body, Multiple lifting support mechanisms that support each of the multiple aforementioned running gears on the vehicle body so that they can be raised and lowered independently, A tilt sensor that detects the tilt of the vehicle body in the front, rear, left, and right directions, Preferably, the system includes a control device that individually controls the posture of each of the multiple lifting support mechanisms to maintain the cargo bed horizontally, in accordance with the detection results of the tilt sensor.

[0031] This feature configuration ensures that the loading platform remains level even when the vehicle tilts forward, backward, left, or right while traveling down a slope. This improves operability even when the relative height between the operating components and the operator changes significantly. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0032] [Figure 1] This is a left side view of the work vehicle. [Figure 2] This is a plan view showing a work vehicle. [Figure 3] This is a plan view showing the vehicle frame and control panel. [Figure 4] This is a cross-sectional view taken along line IV-IV in Figure 3. [Figure 5] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the VV section. [Figure 6] This is a cross-sectional view taken from VI-VI in Figure 3. [Figure 7] This is a partial cross-sectional view showing the control panel and support mechanism. [Figure 8] This is a left side view showing the control panel and support mechanism. [Figure 9] This is a left side view showing the control panel swung upwards. [Figure 10] This is a left side view showing the control panel swaying downwards. [Figure 11] This is a plan view of the vehicle body. [Figure 12] This is a cross-sectional view from XII-XII in Figure 11. [Figure 13] This diagram shows the control configuration of the work vehicle. [Figure 14] This is a plan view showing a vehicle frame and cargo bed according to another embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0033] Embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described based on the drawings. In the following description, the direction of arrow F is "front of the vehicle", the direction of arrow B is "rear of the vehicle", the direction of arrow L is "left side of the vehicle", the direction of arrow R is "right side of the vehicle", the direction of arrow U is "upper part of the vehicle", and the direction of arrow D is "lower part of the vehicle".

[0034] Figures 1 and 2 show a work vehicle. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the work vehicle is capable of traveling on uneven terrain (areas with steps or bumps). The work vehicle comprises a vehicle body 1, a plurality (four in this embodiment) of drive wheels 2 (corresponding to the "traveling device" according to the present invention), a plurality (four in this embodiment) of auxiliary wheels 3, a plurality (four in this embodiment) of support legs 4 (corresponding to the "lifting support mechanism" according to the present invention), an engine E, a hydraulic pump (not shown), a plurality (four in this embodiment) of hydraulic motors M, and an operation panel 7.

[0035] The vehicle body 1 comprises a vehicle frame 8 (see Figures 3 to 6), a cargo bed 9, and a vehicle cover 10. The engine E is located below the vehicle body 1. The hydraulic pump pumps hydraulic fluid to the hydraulic motor M, the first hydraulic cylinder CY1, the second hydraulic cylinder CY2, and the third hydraulic cylinder CY3, which will be described in more detail later. The hydraulic pump is driven by the engine E.

[0036] Engine E is covered from the left and right by left and right engine covers 11. The engine covers 11 are provided on the left and right sides of engine E, respectively. The engine covers 11 have numerous ventilation holes (not shown). In this embodiment, the engine covers 11 are made of perforated metal.

[0037] The four drive wheels 2 are located at the front and rear on both the left and right sides of the vehicle body 1. The four drive wheels 2 consist of a left front drive wheel 2, a right front drive wheel 2, a left rear drive wheel 2, and a right rear drive wheel 2. The four auxiliary wheels 3 consist of a left front auxiliary wheel 3, a right front auxiliary wheel 3, a left rear auxiliary wheel 3, and a right rear auxiliary wheel 3.

[0038] The support legs 4 support the drive wheels 2 and the auxiliary wheels 3. The four support legs 4 support the four drive wheels 2 and the four auxiliary wheels 3 on the vehicle body 1 so that they can be raised and lowered independently. The four support legs 4 consist of a left front support leg 4, a right front support leg 4, a left rear support leg 4, and a right rear support leg 4.

[0039] The left front support leg 4 supports the left front drive wheel 2 and the left front auxiliary wheel 3. The left front support leg 4 allows the left front drive wheel 2 and the left front auxiliary wheel 3 to be raised and lowered by the vehicle body 1. The right front support leg 4 supports the right front drive wheel 2 and the right front auxiliary wheel 3. The right front support leg 4 allows the right front drive wheel 2 and the right front auxiliary wheel 3 to be raised and lowered by the vehicle body 1. The left rear support leg 4 supports the left rear drive wheel 2 and the left rear auxiliary wheel 3. The left rear support leg 4 allows the left rear drive wheel 2 and the left rear auxiliary wheel 3 to be raised and lowered by the vehicle body 1. The right rear support leg 4 supports the right rear drive wheel 2 and the right rear auxiliary wheel 3. The right rear support leg 4 allows the right rear drive wheel 2 and the right rear auxiliary wheel 3 to be raised and lowered by the vehicle body 1.

[0040] The left front support leg 4 is connected to the left side of the front of the vehicle body 1. The right front support leg 4 is connected to the right side of the front of the vehicle body 1. The left rear support leg 4 is connected to the left side of the rear of the vehicle body 1. The right rear support leg 4 is connected to the right side of the rear of the vehicle body 1.

[0041] The support leg 4 is configured to bend (extend) and extend. The support leg 4 comprises a first link 5, a second link 6, a first hydraulic cylinder CY1, a second hydraulic cylinder CY2, and a third hydraulic cylinder CY3. The first hydraulic cylinder CY1, the second hydraulic cylinder CY2, and the third hydraulic cylinder CY3 are driven to extend and retract by hydraulic fluid from the hydraulic pump.

[0042] The first link 5 is pivotably connected to the vehicle body 1 around a pivot axis X1 that extends along the left-right direction of the vehicle body. The second link 6 is pivotably connected to the end of the first link 5 opposite to the vehicle body 1 around a pivot axis X2 that extends along the left-right direction of the vehicle body.

[0043] The first hydraulic cylinder CY1 drives the first link 5 to oscillate around the pivot axis X1. The first hydraulic cylinder CY1 is installed across the vehicle body 1 and the first link 5. As the first hydraulic cylinder CY1 extends and retracts, the first link 5 is driven to oscillate around the pivot axis X1.

[0044] The second hydraulic cylinder CY2 drives the second link 6 to oscillate around the pivot axis X2. The second hydraulic cylinder CY2 is installed across the first link 5 and the second link 6. As the second hydraulic cylinder CY2 extends and retracts, the second link 6 is driven to oscillate around the pivot axis X2.

[0045] The drive wheels 2 drive the vehicle body 1. The drive wheels 2 are configured to rotate around a rotation axis X3 that extends along the left-right direction of the vehicle body. The drive wheels 2 are rotationally driven by a hydraulic motor M. The hydraulic motor M is rotationally driven by hydraulic fluid from the hydraulic pump. The drive wheels 2 are configured to be steerable around a steering axis Z1. The third hydraulic cylinder CY3 steers the drive wheels 2 around the steering axis Z1. The drive wheels 2 are supported at the end of the second link 6 opposite to the pivot axis X2. A support portion 6a for supporting the drive wheels 2 is provided at the end of the second link 6 opposite to the pivot axis X2.

[0046] The auxiliary wheels 3 assist in the movement of the vehicle body 1. The auxiliary wheels 3 are configured to rotate around a rotation axis (the same as the oscillating axis X2) that extends along the left-right direction of the vehicle body. The auxiliary wheels 3 are positioned laterally and outward from the support legs 4 in the left-right direction of the vehicle body.

[0047] As shown in Figures 3 to 6, the vehicle body frame 8 comprises left and right first frames 12, multiple (three in this embodiment) second frames 13, multiple (six in this embodiment) third frames 14, and left and right fourth frames 15.

[0048] The first frame 12 extends along the longitudinal direction of the vehicle body. The left and right first frames 12 are spaced apart in the lateral direction of the vehicle body. Each of the left and right first frames 12 has two bolt holes 12b that extend along the vertical direction. In other words, the vehicle body frame 8 has bolt holes 12b. The portion of the first frame 12 located around the bolt holes 12b is circular in plan view and is formed slightly lower than the upper surface 12a of the first frame 12.

[0049] The second frame 13 extends along the left-right direction of the vehicle body. The second frame 13 is provided across the left first frame 12 and the right first frame 12. The three second frames 13 consist of a front second frame 13, an intermediate first frame 12, and a rear second frame 13. The front second frame 13, the intermediate second frame 13, and the rear second frame 13 are spaced apart in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body.

[0050] The front second frame 13 is provided extending from the front end of the left first frame 12 to the front end of the right first frame 12. The left end of the front second frame 13 is connected to the front end of the left first frame 12. The right end of the front second frame 13 is connected to the front end of the right first frame 12.

[0051] The intermediate second frame 13 is provided spanning the front-to-rear intermediate section of the left first frame 12 and the front-to-rear intermediate section of the right first frame 12. The left end of the intermediate second frame 13 is connected to the front-to-rear intermediate section of the left first frame 12. The right end of the intermediate second frame 13 is connected to the front-to-rear intermediate section of the right first frame 12.

[0052] The rear second frame 13 is provided extending from the rear end of the left first frame 12 to the rear end of the right first frame 12. The left end of the rear second frame 13 is connected to the rear end of the left first frame 12. The right end of the rear second frame 13 is connected to the rear end of the right first frame 12. A stay 16 is connected to the rear surface of the rear second frame 13. The stay 16 is equipped with left and right support parts 17, which will be described in more detail later.

[0053] The third frame 14 extends laterally outward from each of the left and right first frames 12 in the left-right direction of the vehicle body. The six third frames 14 consist of multiple (three in this embodiment) third frames 14 on the left side and multiple (three in this embodiment) third frames 14 on the right side. The three third frames 14 on the left side consist of a front third frame 14, a middle third frame 14, and a rear third frame 14. The three third frames 14 on the right side consist of a front third frame 14, a middle third frame 14, and a rear third frame 14.

[0054] The front third frame 14 on the left side extends laterally outward (to the left in this embodiment) in the left-right direction from the front end of the left first frame 12. The right end of the front third frame 14 on the left side is connected to the front end of the left first frame 12. The left front support leg 4 is supported by the front third frame 14 on the left side.

[0055] The intermediate third frame 14 on the left side extends laterally outward (to the left in this embodiment) in the left-right direction from the front-rear intermediate portion of the left first frame 12. The right end of the intermediate third frame 14 on the left side is connected to the front-rear intermediate portion of the left first frame 12.

[0056] The rear third frame 14 on the left side extends laterally outward (to the left in this embodiment) in the left-right direction from the rear end of the left first frame 12. The right end of the rear third frame 14 on the left side is connected to the rear end of the left first frame 12. The left rear support leg 4 is supported by the rear third frame 14 on the left side.

[0057] The front third frame 14 on the right side extends laterally outward (to the right in this embodiment) in the left-right direction of the vehicle body from the front end of the right first frame 12. The left end of the front third frame 14 on the right side is connected to the front end of the right first frame 12. The right front support leg 4 is supported on the front third frame 14 on the right side.

[0058] The intermediate third frame 14 on the right side extends laterally outward (to the right in this embodiment) in the left-right direction of the vehicle body from the front-rear intermediate portion of the first frame 12 on the right side. The left end of the intermediate third frame 14 on the right side is connected to the front-rear intermediate portion of the first frame 12 on the right side.

[0059] The rear third frame 14 on the right side extends laterally outward (to the right in this embodiment) in the left-right direction of the vehicle body from the rear end of the first frame 12 on the right side. The left end of the rear third frame 14 on the right side is connected to the rear end of the first frame 12 on the right side. The right rear support leg 4 is supported on the rear third frame 14 on the right side.

[0060] The fourth frame 15 on the left side is provided across the lateral outer (left side in this embodiment) ends of the three third frames 14 on the left side in the left-right direction of the vehicle body. The fourth frame 15 on the left side is supported at the left end of the front third frame 14, the left end of the middle third frame 14, and the left end of the rear third frame 14 of the three third frames 14 on the left side.

[0061] The fourth frame 15 on the right side is provided across the laterally outer (right side in this embodiment) ends of the three third frames 14 on the right side in the left-right direction of the vehicle body. The fourth frame 15 on the right side is supported at the right end of the front third frame 14, the right end of the middle third frame 14, and the right end of the rear third frame 14 of the three third frames 14 on the right side.

[0062] As shown in Figure 4, the top surface 15a of the fourth frame 15 on the left, the top surface 14a of the front third frame 14 on the left, the top surface 12a of the first frame 12 on the left, the top surface 13a of the front second frame 13, the top surface 12a of the first frame 12 on the right, the top surface 14a of the front third frame 14 on the right, and the top surface 15a of the fourth frame 15 on the right are located on the same plane.

[0063] As shown in Figure 5, the top surface 15a of the fourth frame 15 on the left, the top surface 14a of the intermediate third frame 14 on the left, the top surface 12a of the first frame 12 on the left, the top surface 13a of the intermediate second frame 13, the top surface 12a of the first frame 12 on the right, the top surface 14a of the intermediate third frame 14 on the right, and the top surface 15a of the fourth frame 15 on the right are located on the same plane.

[0064] As shown in Figure 6, the top surface 15a of the fourth frame 15 on the left, the top surface 14a of the third frame 14 at the rear on the left, the top surface 12a of the first frame 12 on the left, the top surface 13a of the second frame 13 at the rear, the top surface 12a of the first frame 12 on the right, the top surface 14a of the third frame 14 at the rear on the right, and the top surface 15a of the fourth frame 15 on the right are located on the same plane.

[0065] Thus, the upper surfaces 12a of the left and right first frames 12, the upper surfaces 13a of the three second frames 13, the upper surfaces 14a of the six third frames 14, and the upper surfaces 15a of the two fourth frames 15 are formed on the same plane. In other words, the upper surfaces of the vehicle body frame 8 are formed on the same plane.

[0066] As shown in Figures 7 and 8, the control panel 7 is located at the rear of the vehicle body 1. The control panel 7 comprises an operating lever 18, a cover 19, and a support frame 20. The operating lever 18 is used to operate the drive wheels 2 (forward and backward movement, and turning). The operating lever 18 is located at the rear of the vehicle body 1. The operating lever 18 is configured to be tiltable in the longitudinal and lateral directions of the vehicle body. In this embodiment, the operating lever 18 is configured as a joystick. By tilting the operating lever 18 in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle body, the work vehicle moves forward or backward. By tilting the operating lever 18 in the lateral direction of the vehicle body, the work vehicle turns left or right. The base of the operating lever 18 is covered by the cover 19.

[0067] The support frame 20 supports the operating lever 18 and the cover 19. The support frame 20 extends rearward from the rear of the vehicle body frame 8. The front end of the support frame 20 is supported by a support mechanism 21 so as to be able to swing around a pivot axis X4 that extends along the left-right direction of the vehicle body.

[0068] The support frame 20 comprises left and right overhanging frames 22 and a rear frame 23.

[0069] The protruding frame 22 extends rearward from the rear second frame 13 (stay 16). In other words, the protruding frame 22 extends rearward from the rear of the vehicle body frame 8. The operating lever 18 is supported by the left and right protruding frames 22 via stays (not shown).

[0070] The rear frame 23 is located behind the operating lever 18. The rear frame 23 extends upward from the rear ends of the left and right overhanging frames 22. Specifically, the rear frame 23 extends forward and upward from the rear ends of the left and right overhanging frames 22. The rear frame 23 is connected to the rear ends of the left and right overhanging frames 22 in a forward-leaning position. The width of the rear frame 23 in the left-right direction of the vehicle body (the distance between the left end of the rear frame 23 and the right end of the rear frame 23) is longer than the width of the left and right overhanging frames 22 in the left-right direction of the vehicle body (the distance between the left end of the left overhanging frame 22 and the right end of the right overhanging frame 22) (see Figure 3).

[0071] The support mechanism 21 includes left and right pins P, left and right elongated holes 17a, left and right bolts 24, and left and right position holding mechanisms 25.

[0072] The pin P is provided across the front end of the overhanging frame 22 and the support portion 17. The front end of the overhanging frame 22 is supported by the support portion 17 via the pin P so as to be able to swing around the pivot axis X4.

[0073] The elongated hole 17a is formed in the support portion 17. The elongated hole 17a is formed in an arc shape centered on the pivot axis X4.

[0074] The bolt 24 is located in the part of the overhanging frame 22 that is forward of the pivot axis X4. The bolt 24 passes through the elongated hole 17a in the left-right direction of the vehicle body.

[0075] The position-holding mechanism 25 includes a spring 26, a first washer 27, a second washer 28, and a pair of nuts 29.

[0076] The spring 26, first washer 27, second washer 28, and pair of nuts 29 are attached to the bolt 24. The spring 26 is made of compression spring material. The spring 26 is located between the first washer 27 and the second washer 28. The pair of nuts 29 function as lock nuts to prevent loosening.

[0077] The restoring force of the spring 26 presses the first washer 27 against the support portion 17, causing the support portion 17 to be sandwiched between the first washer 27 and the front end of the overhanging frame 22. As a result, the position holding mechanism 25 holds the support frame 20 at any position around the pivot axis X4. In other words, the support mechanism 21 is configured to hold the support frame 20 at any position around the pivot axis X4.

[0078] In Figure 8, the upward swing angle of the support frame 20 around the pivot axis X4 is shown as α1, and the downward swing angle of the support frame 20 around the pivot axis X4 is shown as α2. The upward swing angle α1 is the swing angle when the support frame 20 is swung upward around the pivot axis X4 from a horizontal position. The downward swing angle α2 is the swing angle when the support frame 20 is swung downward around the pivot axis X4 from a horizontal position. As shown in Figure 8, the downward swing angle α2 is greater than the upward swing angle α1. In this embodiment, the downward swing angle α2 is set to twice the upward swing angle α1.

[0079] As shown in Figure 9, when the support frame 20 swings upward around the pivot axis X4 and the bolt 24 reaches the lower end of the elongated hole 17a, the support frame 20 is positioned at a position that has swung upward by an angle α1 around the pivot axis X4. As shown in Figure 10, when the support frame 20 swings downward around the pivot axis X4 and the bolt 24 reaches the upper end of the elongated hole 17a, the support frame 20 is positioned at a position that has swung downward by an angle α2 around the pivot axis X4.

[0080] As shown in Figures 11 and 12, the cargo bed 9 is mounted on the vehicle frame 8. The cargo bed 9 comprises a deck 30 and an edge 31. Items to be placed on the deck 30 (e.g., container boxes, etc.) are placed on the deck 30. Notches are formed at each of the four corners of the deck 30. The edge 31 is provided around the entire outer circumference of the deck 30. In this embodiment, the edge 31 is made of round pipe. The notches at the four corners of the deck 30 and the edge 31 form an opening 9a that opens in the vertical direction. That is, multiple (four in this embodiment) openings 9a that open in the vertical direction are formed on the outer circumference of the cargo bed 9.

[0081] In the portion of the cargo bed 9 located above the bolt holes 12b, a number of openings 30a (four in this embodiment) are formed to expose the bolt holes 12b. The openings 30a are formed in the deck 30. In this embodiment, the openings 30a are made up of round holes.

[0082] A bolt-shaped member can be attached to the bolt hole 12b from above the loading platform 9. By attaching, for example, an eye bolt to the bolt hole 12b, the eye bolt can be used when lifting the work vehicle or when loading the work vehicle onto a transport vehicle (for example, a truck, etc.) for transport.

[0083] The vehicle body cover 10 covers the vehicle body frame 8 from the front, rear, left, and right. The vehicle body cover 10 is provided on the outer periphery of the vehicle body frame 8. The vehicle body cover 10 comprises left and right front covers 32, left and right side covers 33, and left and right rear covers 34. The front, rear, left, and right sides of the vehicle body cover 10 have flat surfaces 32a, 33a, and 34a.

[0084] The left front cover 32 is provided on the left side of the front of the vehicle body 1. The right front cover 32 is provided on the right side of the front of the vehicle body 1. The front covers 32 have a flat surface 32a. That is, the front of the vehicle body cover 10 has a flat surface 32a. The flat surface 32a forms a vertical surface.

[0085] The left side cover 33 is provided on the left side of the vehicle body 1. The right side cover 33 is provided on the right side of the vehicle body 1. The side covers 33 have a flat surface 33a. That is, the left and right sides of the vehicle body cover 10 have flat surfaces 33a. The flat surfaces 33a form a vertical surface.

[0086] The left rear cover 34 is provided on the left side of the rear surface of the vehicle body 1. The right rear cover 34 is provided on the right side of the rear surface of the vehicle body 1. The rear cover 34 has a flat surface 34a. That is, the rear surface of the vehicle body cover 10 has a flat surface 34a. The flat surface 34a forms a vertical surface.

[0087] The flat surface 33a of the left side cover 33 is flush with the left outer edge of the cargo bed 9 (specifically, the left outer edge 31a of the edge 31). The flat surface 33a of the right side cover 33 is flush with the right outer edge of the cargo bed 9 (specifically, the right outer edge 31a of the edge 31). In other words, at least one of the front, rear, left, and right sides of the vehicle body cover 10 is flush with the outer edge 31a of the cargo bed 9.

[0088] Lights 35 are embedded in the left and right front covers 32 and the left and right rear covers 34, respectively. The lights 35 function as work lights and also flash to notify the driver of various abnormalities. In this embodiment, the lights 35 are made up of round lights.

[0089] Figure 13 shows the control configuration of the work vehicle. The control configuration of the work vehicle includes four support legs 4 (four first hydraulic cylinders CY1, four second hydraulic cylinders CY2), four first hydraulic control valves 37, four second hydraulic control valves 38, four first stroke sensors S1, four second stroke sensors S2, a tilt sensor S3, and a control device 39.

[0090] The first hydraulic control valve 37 controls the hydraulic fluid supplied to the first hydraulic cylinder CY1. The second hydraulic control valve 38 controls the hydraulic fluid supplied to the second hydraulic cylinder CY2. The first stroke sensor S1 detects the amount of extension and retraction of the first hydraulic cylinder CY1. The second stroke sensor S2 detects the amount of extension and retraction of the second hydraulic cylinder CY2. The tilt sensor S3 detects the tilt of the vehicle body 1 in the front, rear, left, and right directions.

[0091] The control device 39 receives the detection results from the first stroke sensor S1, the second stroke sensor S2, and the tilt sensor S3. The control device 39 individually controls the posture of the four support legs 4 to keep the cargo bed 9 horizontal, according to the detection results from the tilt sensor S3. Specifically, the control device 39 individually switches the four first hydraulic control valves 37 and the four first hydraulic control valves 37 to extend and retract the four first hydraulic cylinders CY1 and the four second hydraulic cylinders CY24, respectively, so that the detection results from the four first stroke sensors S1 and the four second stroke sensors S2 reach target values.

[0092] Next, another embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0093] (1) In the above embodiment, the work vehicle is equipped with four drive wheels 2. However, the number of drive wheels 2 is not limited to four. That is, the number of drive wheels 2 may be two, three, or five or more.

[0094] (2) In the above embodiment, the support mechanism 21 is configured to hold the support frame 20 at any position around the pivot axis X4. However, the support mechanism 21 does not have to be configured to hold the support frame 20 at any position around the pivot axis X4. For example, the support frame 20 may be configured to hold at a specific position around the pivot axis X4.

[0095] (3) In the above embodiment, the downward swing angle α2 is greater than the upward swing angle α1. However, the downward swing angle α2 may be the same as the upward swing angle α1. Also, the downward swing angle α2 may be smaller than the upward swing angle α1.

[0096] (4) In the above embodiment, the support frame 20 includes left and right overhanging frames 22 and a rear frame 23. However, the support frame 20 does not have to include the rear frame 23.

[0097] (5) In the above embodiment, the vehicle body frame 8 comprises left and right first frames 12, three second frames 13, six third frames 14, and left and right fourth frames 15. However, the number of first frames 12, second frames 13, third frames 14, and fourth frames 15 is not limited to the above embodiment. Also, the vehicle body frame 8 does not have to include left and right fourth frames 15.

[0098] (6) In the above embodiment, four bolt holes 12b are formed in the vehicle frame 8 and four openings 30a are formed in the cargo bed 9. However, one to three or five or more bolt holes 12b may be formed in the vehicle frame 8 and one to three or five or more openings 30a may be formed in the cargo bed 9. Also, bolt holes 12b and openings 30a may not be formed in the vehicle frame 8 and cargo bed 9, respectively.

[0099] Furthermore, the vehicle frame 8 and the cargo bed 9 may be configured as shown in Figure 14. As shown in Figure 14, rails 36 (corresponding to the "mounting part" according to the present invention) are formed on the vehicle frame 8 to which objects placed on the cargo bed 9 (e.g., options for a work vehicle) can be attached, and an opening 30b for exposing the rails 36 may be formed in the portion of the cargo bed 9 located above the rails 36. The rails 36 are formed on each of the left and right first frames 12. Options for a work vehicle (e.g., a sprayer, a robot arm, etc.) can be attached to the rails 36. The opening 30b is formed in the deck 30. The opening 30b is composed of an elongated hole that is long in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body. Note that the "mounting part" according to the present invention is not limited to rails 36.

[0100] (7) In the above embodiment, four openings 9a are formed on the outer periphery of the cargo bed 9. However, one to three or five or more openings 9a may be formed on the outer periphery of the cargo bed 9. Alternatively, no openings 9a may be formed on the outer periphery of the cargo bed 9.

[0101] (8) In the above embodiment, the cargo bed 9 comprises a deck 30 and an edge portion 31. However, the cargo bed 9 does not have to have an edge portion 31.

[0102] (9) In the above embodiment, the front, rear, left, and right sides of the vehicle body cover 10 have flat surfaces 32a, 33a, and 34a. However, the front, rear, left, and right sides of the vehicle body cover 10 do not have to have flat surfaces 32a, 33a, and 34a. For example, stepped surfaces may be formed on the front, rear, left, and right sides of the vehicle body cover 10.

[0103] (10) In the above embodiment, at least one of the front, rear, left, and right sides of the vehicle body cover 10 (in the above embodiment, the flat portion 33a of the left side cover 33 and the flat portion 33a of the right side cover 33) is flush with the outer edge 31a of the cargo bed 9. However, at least one of the front, rear, left, and right sides of the vehicle body cover 10 may be located inside the vehicle body beyond the outer edge 31a of the cargo bed 9.

[0104] (11) In the above embodiment, the engine cover 11 is made of perforated metal. However, the engine cover 11 may be made of a material other than perforated metal, as long as it has ventilation holes. [Industrial applicability]

[0105] The present invention can be used in work vehicles, particularly work vehicles capable of traveling on uneven terrain (areas with steps or bumps). [Explanation of Symbols]

[0106] 1. Vehicle body 2. Drive wheels (running gear) 4. Support legs (lifting support mechanism) 8. Vehicle frame 9. Cargo bed 9a aperture 10 Car body cover 11 Engine cover 12 First Frame 12b Bolt holes 13 Second Frame 14 Third Frame 18. Operating lever (operating component) 20 Support Frame 21 Support mechanism 22. Overhanging frame 23 Rear frame 30 decks 30a opening 30b opening 31 Edge 31a Outer edge 32a Flat part 33a Flat part 34a Flat part 36 Rail (mounting part) 39 Control device E-engine S3 Tilt Sensor X4 Swing axis α1 oscillation angle α2 oscillation angle

Claims

1. A vehicle body having a vehicle frame and a cargo bed provided on the vehicle frame, A traveling device for moving the aforementioned vehicle body, An operating member provided at the rear of the vehicle body for operating the running gear, A support frame extending rearward from the rear of the vehicle body frame and supporting the operating member, The support mechanism includes a support mechanism that supports the front end of the support frame so that it can pivot around a pivot axis extending along the left-right direction of the vehicle body, The upper surface of the vehicle body frame is formed on the same plane, The support mechanism is configured to hold the support frame at any position around the pivot axis, A work vehicle in which the downward swing angle of the support frame around the pivot axis is greater than the upward swing angle of the support frame around the pivot axis.

2. A vehicle body having a vehicle frame and a cargo bed provided on the vehicle frame, A traveling device for moving the aforementioned vehicle body, An operating member provided at the rear of the vehicle body for operating the running gear, A support frame extending rearward from the rear of the vehicle body frame and supporting the operating member, The support mechanism includes a support mechanism that supports the front end of the support frame so that it can pivot around a pivot axis extending along the left-right direction of the vehicle body, The upper surface of the vehicle body frame is formed on the same plane, The aforementioned support frame is An overhanging frame extending rearward from the rear of the aforementioned vehicle body frame, A work vehicle having a rear frame provided behind the operating member and extending upward from the rear end of the overhanging frame.

3. A vehicle body having a vehicle frame and a cargo bed provided on the vehicle frame, A traveling device for moving the aforementioned vehicle body, An operating member provided at the rear of the vehicle body for operating the running gear, A support frame extending rearward from the rear of the vehicle body frame and supporting the operating member, The support mechanism includes a support mechanism that supports the front end of the support frame so that it can pivot around a pivot axis extending along the left-right direction of the vehicle body, The upper surface of the vehicle body frame is formed on the same plane, The vehicle frame has mounting parts formed on it to which objects placed on the cargo bed can be attached. A work vehicle having an opening formed in the cargo bed above the mounting portion to expose the mounting portion.

4. A vehicle body having a vehicle frame and a cargo bed provided on the vehicle frame, A traveling device for moving the aforementioned vehicle body, An operating member provided at the rear of the vehicle body for operating the running gear, A support frame extending rearward from the rear of the vehicle body frame and supporting the operating member, The support mechanism includes a support mechanism that supports the front end of the support frame so that it can pivot around a pivot axis extending along the left-right direction of the vehicle body, The upper surface of the vehicle body frame is formed on the same plane, The aforementioned vehicle body is The vehicle body frame has a vehicle body cover provided on the outer periphery and covering the vehicle body frame, The work vehicle has flat surfaces on the front, rear, left, and right sides of the vehicle body cover.

5. A vehicle body having a vehicle frame and a cargo bed provided on the vehicle frame, A traveling device for moving the aforementioned vehicle body, An operating member provided at the rear of the vehicle body for operating the running gear, A support frame extending rearward from the rear of the vehicle body frame and supporting the operating member, The support mechanism includes a support mechanism that supports the front end of the support frame so that it can pivot around a pivot axis extending along the left-right direction of the vehicle body, The upper surface of the vehicle body frame is formed on the same plane, The engine is located below the vehicle body, These are provided to the left and right of the engine, respectively, and cover the engine from the left and right. It is equipped with left and right engine covers, A work vehicle having ventilation holes formed in the engine cover.

6. The aforementioned vehicle frame is The left and right first frames extend along the front-to-rear direction of the vehicle body, Multiple second frames are provided across the left first frame and the right first frame, extending along the left-right direction of the vehicle body, The work vehicle according to claim 1, further comprising a plurality of third frames extending laterally outward in the left-right direction from each of the left and right first frames.

7. Bolt holes extending in the vertical direction are formed in the aforementioned vehicle frame. The work vehicle according to claim 1, wherein an opening is formed in the portion of the cargo bed located above the bolt hole to expose the bolt hole.

8. The work vehicle according to claim 1, wherein an opening that opens in the vertical direction is formed on the outer periphery of the cargo bed.

9. The aforementioned loading platform comprises a deck on which the cargo is placed, and an edge provided on the outer periphery of the deck, A work vehicle according to claim 1, having the following features.

10. The work vehicle according to claim 4, wherein at least one of the front, rear, left, and right sides of the vehicle body cover is flush with the outer edge of the cargo bed or is located inside the vehicle body beyond the outer edge of the cargo bed.

11. Multiple running gears located at the front and rear on both the left and right sides of the vehicle body, Multiple lifting support mechanisms that support each of the multiple aforementioned running gears on the vehicle body so that they can be raised and lowered independently, A tilt sensor that detects the tilt of the vehicle body in the front, rear, left, and right directions, The work vehicle according to claim 1, further comprising a control device that individually controls the posture of a plurality of lifting support mechanisms in accordance with the detection result of the tilt sensor, so as to keep the loading platform horizontal.

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