Shovels and display devices for shovels

Abstract

This excavator (100) has a lower travel body (1), an upper turning body (3) mounted on the lower travel body (1) so as to be capable of turning, a cabin (10) serving as a driver cabin mounted on the upper turning body (3), and a display device (40) disposed in the cabin (10). The excavator (100) is configured such that the display device (40) can display information pertaining to custom settings before the start of driving. The information pertaining to custom settings may be displayed when the engine is started up, or may be displayed when a gate lock lever is in a locked state.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an excavator and a display device for an excavator.

Background Art

[0002] An excavator configured to adjust the operability of the excavator according to the preferences of an operator is known (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in an excavator as described above, before operating the excavator, the operator needs to perform a complicated operation such as displaying a setting screen in order to grasp whether the operability of the excavator has been adjusted.

[0005] Therefore, it is desirable to enable the operator to more easily grasp the state of the excavator.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] An excavator according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a lower traveling body, an upper swing body that is swingably mounted on the lower traveling body, a cab mounted on the upper swing body, and a display device disposed in the cab, and before starting operation Without manual operation by the operator, on the display device In the location where another image was displayed, regarding custom settings image is displayed.

Effects of the Invention

[0007] According to the above-mentioned shovel, the operator can more easily recognize the condition of the shovel. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This figure shows an example of the configuration of a shovel according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a top view of the shovel. [Figure 3] This figure shows an example of the basic system configuration installed on the excavator shown in Figure 1. [Figure 4] This is a diagram showing an example of the detailed configuration of a shovel. [Figure 5] This figure shows an example of the configuration of the image display unit and the operation unit of a display device. [Figure 6] This figure shows another example of the configuration of the image display unit and the operation unit of the display device. [Figure 7] This figure shows an example of the configuration of the relative reactivity setting screen. [Figure 8] This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a display process. [Figure 9] This figure shows an example of the structure of an informational image. [Figure 10] This diagram shows an example of a shovel / operator selection screen. [Figure 11] This figure shows another example of the configuration of the image display unit and the operation unit of the display device. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] The embodiments for carrying out the invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, the same reference numerals are used for identical components, and redundant explanations may be omitted.

[0010] First, a shovel as an excavator according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 1 and 2. Figure 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a shovel according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 is a top view of the shovel in Figure 1.

[0011] As shown in FIG. 1, an excavator 100 has an upper swing body 3 mounted on a crawler-type lower traveling body 1 via a swing mechanism 2 so as to be swingable. A boom 4 as a working element is attached to the upper swing body 3. An arm 5 as a working element is attached to the tip of the boom 4, and a bucket 6 as a working element and an end attachment is attached to the tip of the arm 5. The boom 4 is driven by a boom cylinder 7, the arm 5 is driven by an arm cylinder 8, and the bucket 6 is driven by a bucket cylinder 9.

[0012] The upper swing body 3 is provided with a cabin 10 as an operator's cab, and a power source such as an engine 11 is mounted thereon. Further, a swing hydraulic motor, a controller 30, an imaging device 80, etc. are attached to the upper swing body 3. The swing hydraulic motor may be a swing electric generator.

[0013] Inside the cabin 10, an operating device 26, a display device 40, an alarm device 49, etc. are provided. In this specification, for the sake of convenience, the side of the upper swing body 3 where working elements such as the boom 4 are attached is defined as the front, and the side where the counterweight is attached is defined as the rear.

[0014] The controller 30 is configured to be able to control the excavator 100. In the example of FIG. 1, the controller 30 is composed of a computer provided with a CPU, a RAM, a NVRAM, a ROM, etc. In this case, the controller 30 reads out a program corresponding to each functional element from the ROM and reads it into the RAM, and causes the CPU to execute the corresponding process. However, each functional element may be composed of hardware, or may be composed of a combination of software and hardware.

[0015] The imaging device 80 is configured to image the surroundings of the excavator 100. The imaging device 80 is, for example, a monocular camera, a stereo camera, a distance image camera, an infrared camera, a LIDAR, or the like. In the example of FIG. 1, the imaging device 80 includes a rear camera 80B attached to the rear end of the upper revolving body 3 on the upper surface, a left camera 80L attached to the left end of the upper surface of the upper revolving body 3, and a right camera 80R attached to the right end of the upper surface of the upper revolving body 3.

[0016] The rear camera 80B, the left camera 80L, and the right camera 80R are all attached to the upper revolving body 3 such that their optical axes face obliquely downward and a part of the upper revolving body 3 is included in the imaging range. Therefore, each imaging range of the rear camera 80B, the left camera 80L, and the right camera 80R has a viewing angle of, for example, about 180 degrees in a top view. In the example of FIG. 2, the imaging range AB represents an example of the imaging range of the rear camera 80B, the imaging range AL represents an example of the imaging range of the left camera 80L, and the imaging range AR represents an example of the imaging range of the right camera 80R.

[0017] The imaging device 80 may function as an object detection device that detects a predetermined object within a predetermined region around the excavator 100. In this case, the imaging device 80 may include an image processing device. The image processing device performs known image processing on the image (input image) captured by the imaging device 80 to detect an image of a predetermined object included in the input image. When an image of a predetermined object is detected, the imaging device 80 outputs an object detection signal to the controller 30. The predetermined object is, for example, a person, an animal, a vehicle, or a machine. The image processing device may be configured to detect moving objects. The image processing device may be integrated with the controller 30. The object detection device may be a LIDAR, an ultrasonic sensor, a millimeter-wave sensor, a laser radar sensor, or an infrared sensor.

[0018] Furthermore, the shovel 100 may be configured to include an object detection device (such as a LiDAR, millimeter-wave radar, or stereo camera) as an object detection means, separate from the imaging device 80 (rear camera 80B, left camera 80L, and right camera 80R). In this case, the shovel 100 may display information about objects detected by the object detection device on the display device 40.

[0019] Next, with reference to Figure 3, the basic system mounted on the excavator 100 in Figure 1 will be described. Figure 3 shows an example of the configuration of the basic system mounted on the excavator 100 in Figure 1. In Figure 3, mechanical power transmission lines are shown as double lines, hydraulic fluid lines as thick solid lines, pilot lines as dashed lines, power lines as thin solid lines, and electrical control lines as dashed lines.

[0020] As shown in Figure 3, the basic system mainly includes an engine 11, a main pump 14, a pilot pump 15, a control valve unit 17, an operating device 26, an operating pressure sensor 29, a controller 30, a switching valve 35, a display device 40, an alarm device 49, a dial 75, an ECO button 76, a gate lock lever D4, and a key switch D5, etc.

[0021] Engine 11 is a diesel engine that employs isochronous control to maintain a constant engine speed regardless of increases or decreases in load. The fuel injection amount, fuel injection timing, boost pressure, etc., in engine 11 are controlled by the engine control unit (ECU74).

[0022] The engine 11 is connected to the main pump 14 and the pilot pump 15, which are hydraulic pumps. The main pump 14 is connected to the control valve unit 17 via a hydraulic fluid line.

[0023] The control valve unit 17 is a hydraulic control device that controls the hydraulic system of the excavator 100. The control valve unit 17 is connected to hydraulic actuators such as the left travel hydraulic motor, the right travel hydraulic motor, the boom cylinder 7, the arm cylinder 8, the bucket cylinder 9, and the swing hydraulic motor.

[0024] Specifically, the control valve unit 17 includes a plurality of spool valves corresponding to each hydraulic actuator. Each spool valve is configured to be displaceable in accordance with pilot pressure so as to increase or decrease the opening area of ​​the PC port and the CT port. The PC port is a port that connects the main pump 14 to the hydraulic actuator. The CT port is a port that connects the hydraulic actuator to the hydraulic fluid tank.

[0025] The pilot pump 15 is connected to the operating device 26 via a pilot line. The operating device 26 includes, for example, a left operating lever, a right operating lever, and a travel operating device. The travel operating device includes, for example, a travel lever and a travel pedal. In this embodiment, each of the operating devices 26 is a hydraulic operating device and is connected via a pilot line to the pilot port of the corresponding spool valve in the control valve unit 17. However, the operating devices 26 may be electric operating devices.

[0026] Furthermore, the pilot pump 15 may be omitted. In this case, the function previously performed by the pilot pump 15 may be realized by the main pump 14. That is, the main pump 14 may have a function other than supplying hydraulic fluid to the control valve unit 17, such as supplying hydraulic fluid to the operating device 26 after reducing the pressure of the hydraulic fluid by throttling or the like.

[0027] The operating pressure sensor 29 detects the operation of the operating device 26 in the form of pressure. The operating pressure sensor 29 outputs the detected value to the controller 30. However, the operation of the operating device 26 may also be detected electrically.

[0028] The switching valve 35 is configured to switch between an enabled state and an disabled state of the operating device 26. The enabled state of the operating device 26 is a state in which an operator can operate the hydraulic actuator using the operating device 26. The disabled state of the operating device 26 is a state in which an operator cannot operate the hydraulic actuator using the operating device 26. In this embodiment, the switching valve 35 is a gate lock valve configured to operate in response to a command from the controller 30. Specifically, the switching valve 35 is located in the pilot line connecting the pilot pump 15 and the operating device 26, and is configured to switch between shutting off and connecting the pilot line in response to a command from the controller 30. The operating device 26 is enabled when, for example, the gate lock lever D4 is pulled up and the switching valve 35 (gate lock valve) is opened, and disabled when the gate lock lever D4 is pushed down and the switching valve 35 (gate lock valve) is closed.

[0029] The display device 40 is an example of a display device for an excavator and 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. In this embodiment, the display device 40 is configured to display one or more captured images captured by the imaging device 80 and a menu screen. The display device 40 operates by receiving power from the storage battery 70. The display device 40 has a control unit 40a, an image display unit 41, and an operation unit 42.

[0030] The control unit 40a controls the image displayed on the image display unit 41. In this embodiment, the control unit 40a is composed of a computer equipped with a CPU, RAM, NVRAM, ROM, etc. In this case, the control unit 40a reads the program corresponding to each functional element from ROM and loads it into RAM, and causes the CPU to execute the corresponding processing. However, each functional element may be composed of hardware, or it may be composed of a combination of software and hardware. Furthermore, the image displayed on the image display unit 41 may be controlled by the controller 30 or the imaging device 80.

[0031] The image display unit 41 displays captured images and a menu screen, each captured by at least one of the imaging devices 80. The captured image may be, for example, a rear image captured by the rear camera 80B, a left image captured by the left camera 80L, or a right image captured by the right camera 80R. Alternatively, the captured image may be a composite overhead image formed by combining images captured by the rear camera 80B, the left camera 80L, and the right camera 80R. Furthermore, the captured image may be two or more images selected from the rear image, left image, right image, and overhead image. The menu screen includes a status screen showing the status of the shovel 100 and a settings screen showing various settings for the shovel 100.

[0032] The operation unit 42 is a switch panel including hardware switches. The operation unit 42 may also be a touch panel. In this embodiment, the operation unit 42 is located below the image display unit 41 and includes switches (e.g., menu switches) for changing the image displayed by the image display unit 41. However, the arrangement of the operation unit 42 is not limited to the example described above; for example, it may be located on the operation lever, or on the left or right console of the driver's seat. In addition to the operation unit 42 provided on the display device 40, a driver's seat-side operation unit 50 having the same function as the operation unit 42 may be located on at least one of the operation lever, the left console, or the right console.

[0033] In this embodiment, when the menu switch on the operation unit 42 is operated while the image display unit 41 is displaying the right image RG and the rear image BG captured by the imaging device 80, a menu screen is displayed. For example, the image display unit 41 reduces the size of the rear image BG without changing the size of the right image RG before and after the operation of the menu switch on the operation unit 42, and displays a screen for selecting a menu detail item. Then, when a predetermined switch on the operation unit 42 is operated while the screen for selecting a menu detail item is displayed, the image display unit 41 switches the rear image BG to a menu screen such as a status screen showing the status of the shovel 100 or a settings screen showing various settings for the shovel 100. At this time, the image display unit 41 displays the right image RG without changing its size.

[0034] Furthermore, the image display unit 41 may be configured to display a menu screen when the menu switch on the operation unit 42 is operated, regardless of whether the shovel 100 is operational or inoperable. Alternatively, the image display unit 41 may be configured to display a menu screen when the menu switch on the operation unit 42 is operated, but only when the shovel 100 is inoperable. These may also be switchable by a switching means, such as a changeover switch. An operational state of the shovel 100 is, for example, a state in which the operating device 26 is enabled by raising the gate lock lever D4 and opening the changeover valve 35. The state of the gate lock lever D4 at this time is referred to as the unlocked state. An operational state of the shovel 100 is, for example, a state in which the operating device 26 is disabled by pushing down the gate lock lever D4 and closing the changeover valve 35. The state of the gate lock lever D4 at this time is referred to as the locked state.

[0035] The battery 70 is charged, for example, with electricity generated by the alternator 11a. Power from the battery 70 is also supplied to the controller 30, etc. For example, the starter 11b of the engine 11 is driven by power from the battery 70 to start the engine 11.

[0036] The ECU 74 transmits data related to the status of the engine 11, such as the coolant temperature, to the controller 30. The regulator 14a of the main pump 14 transmits data related to the swash plate tilt angle to the controller 30. The discharge pressure sensor 14b transmits data related to the discharge pressure of the main pump 14 to the controller 30. The oil temperature sensor 14c, installed in the pipeline between the hydraulic oil tank and the main pump 14, transmits data related to the temperature of the hydraulic oil flowing through that pipeline to the controller 30. The operating pressure sensor 29 transmits data related to the pilot pressure generated when the operating device 26 is operated to the controller 30. The controller 30 stores this data in a temporary storage unit (memory) and can transmit it to the display device 40 when needed.

[0037] The dial 75 is configured to adjust the target rotational speed of the engine 11. Specifically, the dial 75 is configured to transmit information to the controller 30 indicating the setting status of the target rotational speed of the engine 11. In this embodiment, the dial 75 is configured to switch the target rotational speed in 10 steps, from the 1st level (corresponding to the lowest target rotational speed) to the 10th level (corresponding to the highest target rotational speed). The actual rotational speed of the engine 11 is controlled to be the target rotational speed selected by the dial 75.

[0038] The ECO button 76 is an example of an operating device for switching the ECO mode ON and OFF. The ECO mode is one of the working modes of the shovel 100, and is a working mode in which a function to suppress fuel consumption is performed. In this embodiment, the working mode of the shovel 100 is configured to switch between the ECO mode and the normal mode each time the ECO button 76 is pressed. The normal mode is one of the working modes of the shovel 100, and is a working mode in which the function to suppress fuel consumption is not performed. Functions performed in the ECO mode include, for example, a function to slow down the movement of the attachment. When the function to slow down the movement of the attachment is performed, the extension and retraction acceleration of the boom cylinder 7, arm cylinder 8, and bucket cylinder 9, respectively, when the operating lever is moved away from the neutral position are limited to a predetermined value or less. In this embodiment, the maximum extension and retraction speed is not limited, but it may be configured to be limited as well. Also, in this embodiment, the extension and retraction acceleration when returning the operating lever to the neutral position is not limited, but it may be configured to be limited as well. This function is achieved, for example, by limiting the stroke acceleration (rate of increase of pilot pressure) of control valves 174, 175L, 175R, 176L, and 176R. By using this ECO button 76, the operator of the shovel 100 can reduce fuel consumption as needed. Therefore, the shovel 100 can accommodate situations where, for example, the operator wants to reduce fuel consumption even if it means limiting the workability of the shovel 100.

[0039] The alarm device 49 is a device for attracting the attention of people working with the shovel 100. The alarm device 49 is composed of, for example, a combination of an indoor alarm device and an outdoor alarm device. The indoor alarm device is a device for attracting the attention of the operator of the shovel 100 inside the cabin 10, and includes, for example, at least one of a sound output device, a vibration generator, and a light-emitting device installed inside the cabin 10. The indoor alarm device may also be a display device 40. The outdoor alarm device is a device for attracting the attention of workers working around the shovel 100, and includes, for example, at least one of a sound output device and a light-emitting device installed outside the cabin 10. The sound output device as an outdoor alarm device includes, for example, a travel alarm device attached to the bottom surface of the upper rotating body 3. The outdoor alarm device may also be a light-emitting device installed on the upper rotating body 3. However, the outdoor alarm device may be omitted. The alarm device 49 may, for example, notify a person operating the shovel 100 when the imaging device 80, which functions as an object detection device, detects a predetermined object.

[0040] The key switch D5 is a device for starting the shovel 100. In the example shown in Figure 3, the key switch D5 consists of a key cylinder into which a mechanical key is inserted. However, the key switch D5 may also be a button-type device used in smart entry systems, etc. Specifically, the key switch D5 is configured so that one of four rotation positions is selected by rotating the mechanical key inserted into the key cylinder. The four rotation positions are OFF, ACC, ON, and START. When the mechanical key is rotated to the OFF position, the power supply to the controller 30 is cut off. When the mechanical key is rotated to the ACC or ON position, power is supplied to the controller 30. When the mechanical key is rotated to the START position, power is supplied to the starter 11b of the engine 11.

[0041] Figure 4 shows an example of the detailed configuration of the excavator 100 according to this embodiment. In the figure, mechanical power lines are shown with double lines, high-pressure hydraulic lines with solid lines, pilot lines with dashed lines, and electric drive and control lines with dotted lines.

[0042] The hydraulic drive system for hydraulically driving the hydraulic actuators of the excavator 100 according to this embodiment includes an engine 11, main pumps 14L and 14R, and a control valve unit 17. Furthermore, as described above, the hydraulic drive system of the excavator 100 according to this embodiment includes hydraulic actuators such as travel hydraulic motors 1L and 1R, a slewing hydraulic motor 2A, a boom cylinder 7, an arm cylinder 8, and a bucket cylinder 9, which hydraulically drive the lower travel body 1, the upper slewing body 3, the boom 4, the arm 5, and the bucket 6, respectively.

[0043] The engine 11 is the main power source in the hydraulic drive system and is mounted, for example, at the rear of the upper slewing body 3. Specifically, the engine 11 rotates at a constant speed at a preset target speed under the control of the controller 30 and drives the main pumps 14L, 14R and the pilot pump 15. The engine 11 is, for example, a diesel engine that uses light oil as fuel.

[0044] The main pumps 14L and 14R are mounted, for example, at the rear of the upper slewing body 3, similar to the engine 11, and supply hydraulic fluid to the control valve unit 17 via a high-pressure hydraulic line. The main pumps 14L and 14R are driven by the engine 11, as described above. The main pumps 14L and 14R are, for example, variable displacement hydraulic pumps, and under the control of the controller 30 described later, the piston stroke length can be adjusted by adjusting the angle (tilt angle) of the swash plate with regulators 13L and 13R, thereby controlling the discharge flow rate (discharge pressure).

[0045] The control valve unit 17 is a hydraulic control device that is mounted, for example, in the center of the upper slewing body 3 and controls the hydraulic drive system in response to operations on the operating device 26 by an operator or the like. As described above, the control valve unit 17 is connected to the main pumps 14L and 14R via a high-pressure hydraulic line and selectively supplies the hydraulic fluid supplied from the main pumps 14L and 14R to the hydraulic actuators, namely the travel hydraulic motor 1L (for the left crawler), 1R (for the right crawler), slewing hydraulic motor 2A, boom cylinder 7, arm cylinder 8, and bucket cylinder 9, according to the operating state of the operating device 26. Specifically, the control valve unit 17 includes control valves 171, 172, 173, 174, 175L, 175R, 176L, and 176R that control the flow rate and direction of the hydraulic fluid supplied from the main pumps 14L and 14R to each of the hydraulic actuators.

[0046] The hydraulic drive system circulates hydraulic fluid from the main pumps 14L and 14R, each driven by the engine 11, through the center bypass oil passages C1L and C1R and the parallel oil passages C2L and C2R to the hydraulic fluid tank.

[0047] The center bypass oil passage C1L starts from the main pump 14L and passes sequentially through control valves 171, 173, 175L, and 176L located within the control valve unit 17, before reaching the hydraulic oil tank.

[0048] The center bypass oil passage C1R starts from the main pump 14R and passes sequentially through the control valves 172, 174, 175R, and 176R located within the control valve unit 17, before reaching the hydraulic oil tank.

[0049] The control valve 171 is a spool valve that supplies the hydraulic fluid discharged by the main pump 14L to the travel hydraulic motor 1L, and also discharges the hydraulic fluid discharged by the travel hydraulic motor 1L to the hydraulic fluid tank.

[0050] The control valve 172 is a spool valve that supplies the hydraulic fluid discharged by the main pump 14R to the travel hydraulic motor 1R, and also discharges the hydraulic fluid discharged by the travel hydraulic motor 1R to the hydraulic fluid tank.

[0051] The control valve 173 is a spool valve that supplies the hydraulic fluid discharged by the main pump 14L to the swivel hydraulic motor 2A, and also discharges the hydraulic fluid discharged by the swivel hydraulic motor 2A to the hydraulic fluid tank.

[0052] The control valve 174 is a spool valve that supplies the hydraulic fluid discharged by the main pump 14R to the bucket cylinder 9 and also discharges the hydraulic fluid in the bucket cylinder 9 to the hydraulic fluid tank.

[0053] Control valves 175L and 175R are spool valves that supply the hydraulic fluid discharged by the main pumps 14L and 14R to the boom cylinder 7, and also discharge the hydraulic fluid from the boom cylinder 7 to the hydraulic fluid tank.

[0054] Control valves 176L and 176R supply the hydraulic fluid discharged by the main pumps 14L and 14R to the arm cylinder 8, respectively, and also discharge the hydraulic fluid from the arm cylinder 8 to the hydraulic fluid tank.

[0055] Control valves 171, 172, 173, 174, 175L, 175R, 176L, and 176R each adjust the flow rate of hydraulic fluid supplied to and discharged from the hydraulic actuator, or switch the direction of flow, in accordance with the pilot pressure acting on the pilot port.

[0056] The parallel oil passage C2L supplies hydraulic fluid for the main pump 14L to control valves 171, 173, 175L, and 176L in parallel with the center bypass oil passage C1L. Specifically, the parallel oil passage C2L branches off from the center bypass oil passage C1L upstream of control valve 171 and is configured to supply hydraulic fluid for the main pump 14L in parallel to each of the control valves 171, 173, 175L, and 176L. As a result, the parallel oil passage C2L can supply hydraulic fluid to the control valve further downstream if the flow of hydraulic fluid through the center bypass oil passage C1L is restricted or blocked by any of the control valves 171, 173, or 175L.

[0057] The parallel oil passage C2R supplies hydraulic fluid for the main pump 14R to control valves 172, 174, 175R, and 176R in parallel with the center bypass oil passage C1R. Specifically, the parallel oil passage C2R branches off from the center bypass oil passage C1R upstream of control valve 172 and is configured to supply hydraulic fluid for the main pump 14R in parallel to each of the control valves 172, 174, 175R, and 176R. The parallel oil passage C2R can supply hydraulic fluid to the control valves further downstream if the flow of hydraulic fluid through the center bypass oil passage C1R is restricted or blocked by any of the control valves 172, 174, or 175R.

[0058] The operating system of the shovel 100 according to this embodiment includes a pilot pump 15 and an operating device 26.

[0059] The pilot pump 15, for example, is mounted at the rear of the upper rotating body 3, similar to the engine 11, and supplies pilot pressure to the operating device 26 via the pilot line 25. The pilot pump 15 is, for example, a fixed-displacement hydraulic pump and is driven by the engine 11 as described above.

[0060] The operating device 26 is located near the cockpit of the cabin 10 and is an input means for operators to control various operating elements (lower traveling body 1, upper slewing body 3, boom 4, arm 5, bucket 6, etc.). In other words, the operating device 26 is an input means for operating the hydraulic actuators that drive each operating element (i.e., travel hydraulic motors 1L, 1R, slewing hydraulic motor 2A, boom cylinder 7, arm cylinder 8, bucket cylinder 9, etc.). The operating device 26 includes, for example, four lever devices for operating the upper slewing body 3, boom 4, arm 5, and bucket 6, respectively. The operating device 26 also includes, for example, two lever devices or pedal devices for operating the left crawler and right crawler (i.e., travel hydraulic motors 1L, 1R) of the lower traveling body 1, respectively. The operating devices 26 are each connected to the control valve unit 17 via pilot lines. As a result, pilot signals (pilot pressure) corresponding to the operating status of the lower traveling body 1, upper slewing body 3, boom 4, arm 5, and bucket 6 in the operating device 26 are input to the control valve unit 17. Specifically, the pilot pressure on the secondary side of the two lever devices or pedal devices that operate the left crawler (travel hydraulic motor 1L) and the right crawler (travel hydraulic motor 1R) acts on the pilot ports of control valves 171 and 172, respectively. The pilot pressure on the secondary side of the lever device that operates the upper slewing body 3 (slewing hydraulic motor 2A) acts on the pilot port of control valve 173. The pilot pressure on the secondary side of the lever device that operates the boom 4 (boom cylinder 7) acts on the pilot ports of control valves 175L and 175R. The pilot pressure on the secondary side of the lever device that operates the arm 5 (arm cylinder 8) acts on the pilot ports of control valves 176L and 176R. The pilot pressure on the secondary side of the lever device that operates the bucket 6 (bucket cylinder 9) acts on the pilot port of control valve 174. Therefore, the control valve unit 17 can drive each hydraulic actuator according to the operating state of the operating device 26.

[0061] The control system of the shovel 100 according to this embodiment includes a controller 30, regulators 13L and 13R, throttles 18L and 18R for negative control, control pressure sensors 19L and 19R, discharge pressure sensor 28, operating pressure sensor 29, display device 40, operation input device as an operation unit 42, and communication device 44.

[0062] The controller 30 controls the drive of the shovel 100. The functions of the controller 30 may be realized by any hardware, or a combination of hardware and software. For example, the controller 30 is mainly composed of a microcomputer including a CPU (Central Processing Unit), ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), non-volatile auxiliary storage, and various input / output interfaces. The controller 30 realizes various functions by executing various programs stored in the ROM and non-volatile auxiliary storage on the CPU.

[0063] For example, the controller 30 sets a target rotational speed based on a work mode or the like, which is set in advance by the operator, and performs drive control to keep the engine 11 rotating at a constant speed, either directly or via a dedicated control device for the engine 11.

[0064] Furthermore, for example, the controller 30 controls the regulators 13L and 13R and adjusts the tilt angle of the swash plates of the main pumps 14L and 14R, thereby controlling the discharge volume of the main pumps 14L and 14R.

[0065] Specifically, the controller 30 may control the regulators 13L and 13R in accordance with the discharge pressure of the main pumps 14L and 14R detected by the discharge pressure sensors 28L and 28R, thereby controlling the discharge volume of the main pumps 14L and 14R. More specifically, the controller 30 may adjust the swash plate tilt angle of the main pump 14L through the regulator 13L in response to an increase in the discharge pressure of the main pump 14L, thereby reducing the discharge volume. The same applies to the regulator 13R. As a result, the controller 30 can control the total horsepower of the main pumps 14L and 14R so that the absorbed horsepower of the main pumps 14L and 14R, which is expressed as the product of discharge pressure and discharge volume, does not exceed the output horsepower of the engine 11.

[0066] Furthermore, the controller 30 may control the regulators 13L and 13R in accordance with detection signals corresponding to the control pressure generated by the throttles 18L and 18R, which are input from the control pressure sensors 19L and 19R, thereby controlling the discharge volume of the main pumps 14L and 14R. More specifically, the controller 30 decreases the discharge volume of the main pumps 14L and 14R as the control pressure increases, and increases the discharge volume of the main pumps 14L and 14R as the control pressure decreases.

[0067] When none of the hydraulic actuators in the shovel 100 are operated and the machine is in standby mode (as shown in Figure 4), the hydraulic fluid discharged from the main pumps 14L and 14R passes through the center bypass oil passages C1L and C1R to the throttles 18L and 18R. The flow of hydraulic fluid discharged from the main pumps 14L and 14R increases the control pressure generated upstream of the throttles 18L and 18R. As a result, the controller 30 reduces the discharge volume of the main pumps 14L and 14R to the minimum allowable discharge volume, thereby suppressing the pressure loss (pumping loss) as the discharged hydraulic fluid passes through the center bypass oil passages C1L and C1R.

[0068] On the other hand, when any hydraulic actuator is operated by the operating device 26, the hydraulic fluid discharged from the main pumps 14L and 14R flows into the hydraulic actuator being operated via the control valve corresponding to that actuator. The flow of hydraulic fluid discharged from the main pumps 14L and 14R reduces or eliminates the amount reaching the throttles 18L and 18R, thereby lowering the control pressure generated upstream of the throttles 18L and 18R. As a result, the controller 30 increases the discharge volume of the main pumps 14L and 14R, circulating sufficient hydraulic fluid to the hydraulic actuator being operated, and ensuring that the hydraulic actuator is driven reliably.

[0069] In this way, the controller 30 can suppress wasted energy consumption of the main pumps 14L and 14R, including pumping losses caused by the hydraulic fluid discharged from the main pumps 14L and 14R in the center bypass oil passages C1L and C1R, when the hydraulic drive system is in standby mode. Furthermore, when a hydraulic actuator is operating, the controller 30 can supply the necessary and sufficient amount of hydraulic fluid from the main pumps 14L and 14R to the hydraulic actuator being operated.

[0070] Furthermore, when a combined operation (hereinafter simply referred to as "combined operation") is performed by the operating device 26 in which two hydraulic actuators are operated simultaneously, the controller 30 controls the regulators 13L and 13R and controls the discharge amount of the main pumps 14L and 14R so that the two hydraulic actuators operate according to a preset setting. More specifically, when a combined operation is performed by the operating device 26, the controller 30 controls the regulators 13L and 13R so that the flow rate distribution of the hydraulic fluid supplied to the two hydraulic actuators is adjusted according to a preset setting. For example, in a combined operation (hereinafter referred to as "boom-raising operation") in which the boom 4 is raised (hereinafter referred to as "boom-raising and slewing operation") and the upper slewing body 3 is slewing hydraulic motor 2A, which is driven by hydraulic fluid supplied from the main pump 14L, and the boom cylinder 7, which is supplied with hydraulic fluid from both the main pumps 14L and 14R, are operated. In this case, since hydraulic fluid flows into the swing hydraulic motor 2A from the upstream side (main pump 14L side) of the boom cylinder 7 in the center bypass oil passage C1L, the controller 30 can relatively increase the flow rate of the swing hydraulic motor 2A by increasing the discharge rate of the main pump 14L. On the other hand, since the boom cylinder 7 can receive hydraulic fluid not only from the main pump 14L but also from the main pump 14R, the controller 30 can relatively increase the flow rate of the boom cylinder 7 by increasing the discharge rate of the main pump 14R. In this way, the controller 30 can adjust the flow rate of hydraulic fluid supplied to the two hydraulic actuators to be set as described later by controlling the discharge rates of the main pumps 14L and 14R during combined operation based on the operating state of the operating device 26.

[0071] Furthermore, for example, the controller 30 sets the relative response rate of the two hydraulic actuators to the operation input to the operating device 26 during a combined operation (hereinafter referred to as "relative response rate") in response to the operation of the operating unit 42 by a user such as an operator or service technician. The controller 30 includes an operation screen display processing unit 301 and a combined operation setting unit 302 as functional units for setting the relative response rate of the two hydraulic actuators during a combined operation (hereinafter referred to as "relative response rate setting"), which is realized by executing one or more programs stored in a non-volatile auxiliary storage device, for example. The controller 30 also includes a storage unit 303 as a storage area for relative response rate setting, which is defined in a non-volatile internal memory such as an auxiliary storage device, for example.

[0072] Furthermore, some of the functions of controller 30 may be implemented by other controllers. That is, the functions of controller 30 may be implemented in a manner distributed among multiple controllers.

[0073] Regulators 13L and 13R adjust the discharge volume of main pumps 14L and 14R by adjusting the tilt angle of the swash plates of main pumps 14L and 14R, respectively, under the control of controller 30.

[0074] The throttles 18L and 18R are located between the control valves 176L and 176R, which are the most downstream in the center bypass oil passages C1L and C1R, and the hydraulic oil tank, respectively. As a result, the flow of hydraulic oil discharged by the main pumps 14L and 14R is restricted by the throttles 18L and 18R, and the throttles 18L and 18R generate the control pressure described above.

[0075] The control pressure sensors 19L and 19R detect the control pressure, and the detection signal corresponding to the detected control pressure is input to the controller 30.

[0076] The discharge pressure sensors 28L and 28R detect the discharge pressure of the main pumps 14L and 14R, respectively, and the detection signals corresponding to the detected discharge pressures are input to the controller 30.

[0077] The operating pressure sensor 29 detects the pilot pressure on the secondary side of the operating device 26, that is, the pilot pressure corresponding to the operating state of each operating element (hydraulic actuator) in the operating device 26. The detection signals of the pilot pressure corresponding to the operating state of the lower traveling body 1, upper slewing body 3, boom 4, arm 5, and bucket 6 in the operating device 26, detected by the operating pressure sensor 29, are received by the controller 30.

[0078] The display device 40 is installed in a location easily visible to the operator near the cockpit inside the cabin 10 (for example, on the right front pillar inside the cabin 10), and displays various information screens under the control of the controller 30. The display device 40 may be, for example, a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display, and may also be a touch panel that also serves as an operating unit.

[0079] The control unit 42 is located within reach of a seated operator in the cabin 10 and accepts various operations from the operator. The control unit 42 includes a touch panel mounted on the display of the display device 40 that displays various information images, a touch pad provided separately from the display of the display device 40, a knob switch provided at the tip of the lever part of the lever device included in the control device 26, and button switches, levers, toggles, etc., which are installed around the display device 40 or located relatively far away from the display device 40. Signals corresponding to the operations performed on the control unit 42 are received by the controller 30.

[0080] The communication device 44 connects to an external communication network of the shovel 100, which may include, for example, a mobile communication network with base stations as its endpoints, a satellite communication network utilizing communication satellites in the orbit, or the Internet network, and communicates with external devices.

[0081] Next, with reference to Figure 5, an example of the configuration of the image display unit 41 and the operation unit 42 of the display device 40 will be described. Figure 5 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the image display unit 41 and the operation unit 42 of the display device 40. In the example in Figure 5, the image display unit 41 shows a home screen including a right-facing image and a rear-facing image, which is displayed before the menu switch of the operation unit 42 is operated. The home screen is a screen that is displayed while the shovel 100 is in operation.

[0082] First, the image display unit 41 will be described. As shown in Figure 5, the image display unit 41 includes a date and time display area 41a, a driving mode display area 41b, an attachment display area 41c, a fuel consumption display area 41d, an engine control status display area 41e, an engine operating time display area 41f, a coolant temperature display area 41g, a fuel level display area 41h, a rotation speed level display area 41i, a urea solution level display area 41j, a hydraulic oil temperature display area 41k, an air conditioner operation status display area 41m, an image display area 41n, and a menu display area 41p.

[0083] The driving mode display area 41b, attachment display area 41c, engine control status display area 41e, rotation speed level display area 41i, and air conditioner operation status display area 41m are areas that display setting status information, which is information related to the setting status of the shovel 100. The fuel consumption display area 41d, engine operating time display area 41f, coolant temperature display area 41g, fuel level display area 41h, urea solution level display area 41j, and hydraulic oil temperature display area 41k are areas that display operating status information, which is information related to the operating status of the shovel 100.

[0084] Specifically, the date and time display area 41a is an area that displays the current date and time. The driving mode display area 41b is an area that displays the current driving mode. The attachment display area 41c is an area that displays an image representing the attachment currently installed. The fuel consumption display area 41d is an area that displays fuel consumption information calculated by the controller 30. The fuel consumption display area 41d includes an average fuel consumption display area 41d1 that displays lifetime average fuel consumption or section average fuel consumption, and an instantaneous fuel consumption display area 41d2 that displays instantaneous fuel consumption.

[0085] The engine control status display area 41e is an area that displays the control status of the engine 11. The engine operating time display area 41f is an area that displays the cumulative operating time of the engine 11. The coolant temperature display area 41g is an area that displays the current temperature status of the engine coolant. The fuel level display area 41h is an area that displays the remaining amount of fuel stored in the fuel tank. The rotation speed level display area 41i is an area that displays the current level set by the dial 75 as an image. Figure 5 shows the state when the first level is selected. The urea solution level display area 41j is an area that displays the remaining amount of urea solution stored in the urea solution tank as an image. The hydraulic oil temperature display area 41k is an area that displays the temperature status of the hydraulic oil in the hydraulic oil tank.

[0086] The air conditioner operating status display area 41m includes an outlet display area 41m1 that displays the current outlet position, an operating mode display area 41m2 that displays the current operating mode, a temperature display area 41m3 that displays the current set temperature, and an airflow display area 41m4 that displays the current set airflow.

[0087] The image display area 41n is the area that displays the image captured by the imaging device 80. In the example in Figure 5, the image display area 41n displays the right image RG and the rear image BG. The right image RG is an image that shows the space to the right of the shovel 100 and includes image GC1 of the upper right edge of the upper rotating body 3. The right image RG is a real viewpoint image generated by the control unit 40a and is generated based on the image acquired by the right camera 80R. The rear image BG is an image that shows the space behind the shovel 100 and includes image GC2 of the counterweight. The rear image BG is a real viewpoint image generated by the control unit 40a and is generated based on the image acquired by the rear camera 80B.

[0088] Furthermore, the image display area 41n has a first image display area 41n1 located above and a second image display area 41n2 located below. In the example in Figure 5, the right image RG is placed in the first image display area 41n1, and the rear image BG is placed in the second image display area 41n2. However, the image display area 41n may be configured to display an overhead view image. The overhead view image is a virtual viewpoint image generated by the control unit 40a, and is generated based on images acquired by the rear camera 80B, the left camera 80L, and the right camera 80R, respectively. Also, a shovel figure corresponding to the shovel 100 is placed in the central part of the overhead view image. This is to allow the operator to intuitively grasp the positional relationship between the shovel 100 and the objects surrounding the shovel 100. Furthermore, the image display area 41n may be configured to display at least two of the overhead view image, the left image, the right image RG, and the rear image BG simultaneously.

[0089] For example, the image display area 41n may have an overhead image placed in the first image display area 41n1, and a rear view image BG and a right view image RG placed in the second image display area 41n2. In this case, the rear view image BG may be placed to the left of the second image display area 41n2, and the right view image RG may be placed to the right of the second image display area 41n2.

[0090] Alternatively, the image display area 41n may have the left image and the right image RG placed in the first image display area 41n1, and the rear image BG placed in the second image display area 41n2. In this case, the left image may be placed to the left of the first image display area 41n1, and the right image RG may be placed to the right of the first image display area 41n1.

[0091] Furthermore, in the example in Figure 5, the right image RG and the rear image BG are placed adjacent to each other vertically, but they may be placed with a gap between them. Also, in the example in Figure 5, the image display area 41n is a vertically elongated area, but the image display area 41n may be a horizontally elongated area. If the image display area 41n is a horizontally elongated area, the rear image BG may be placed on the left side as the first image display area 41n1, and the right image RG may be placed on the right side as the second image display area 41n2. In this case, they may be placed with a gap between them horizontally, or the positions of the rear image BG and the right image RG may be swapped.

[0092] The menu display area 41p has tabs 41p1 to 41p7. In the example in Figure 5, tabs 41p1 to 41p7 are arranged horizontally at the bottom of the image display section 41, with space between them. Tabs 41p1 to 41p7 display icons for displaying various information.

[0093] Tab 41p1 displays icons for menu detail items. When the user selects Tab 41p1, the icons displayed on Tabs 41p2 to 41p7 switch to the icons associated with the menu detail items.

[0094] Tab 41p4 displays an icon for displaying information related to the digital level. When the operator selects tab 41p4, the rear image BG displayed in the second image display area 41n2 switches to a screen showing information related to the digital level. The right image RG displayed in the first image display area 41n1 is then reduced in size and switches to a combination of the right image RG and the rear image BG. However, the screen showing information related to the digital level may be displayed by superimposing the right image RG on the rear image BG or by reducing the size of the rear image BG. Alternatively, the right image RG may switch to a screen showing information related to the digital level, or the screen showing information related to the digital level may be displayed by superimposing the right image RG on the right image RG or by reducing the size of the right image RG. Note that when the right image RG displayed in the first image display area 41n1 switches to a screen showing information related to the digital level, the rear image BG displayed in the second image display area 41n2 is reduced in size and switches to a combination of the right image RG and the rear image BG.

[0095] Tab 41p6 displays icons for displaying information related to information-based construction. When the operator selects tab 41p6, the rear image BG displayed in the second image display area 41n2 switches to a screen showing information related to information-based construction. The right image RG displayed in the first image display area 41n1 is then reduced in size and switches to a combination of the right image RG and the rear image BG. However, the screen showing information related to information-based construction may be displayed by superimposing the rear image BG or by reducing the size of the rear image BG. Alternatively, the right image RG may switch to a screen showing information related to information-based construction, or the screen showing information related to information-based construction may be displayed by superimposing the right image RG or by reducing the size of the right image RG. Furthermore, when the right image RG displayed in the first image display area 41n1 switches to a screen showing information related to information-based construction, the rear image BG displayed in the second image display area 41n2 is reduced in size and switches to a combination of the right image RG and the rear image BG.

[0096] Tab 41p7 displays icons for displaying information about the crane mode. When the operator selects tab 41p7, the rear image BG displayed in the second image display area 41n2 switches to a screen showing information about the crane mode. The right image RG displayed in the first image display area 41n1 is then reduced in size and switches to a combination of the right image RG and the rear image BG. However, the screen showing information about the crane mode may be displayed by superimposing the rear image BG or by reducing the size of the rear image BG. Alternatively, the right image RG may switch to a screen showing information about the crane mode, or the screen showing information about the crane mode may be displayed by superimposing the right image RG or by reducing the size of the right image RG. Note that when the right image RG displayed in the first image display area 41n1 switches to a screen showing information about the crane mode, the rear image BG displayed in the second image display area 41n2 is reduced in size and switches to a combination of the right image RG and the rear image BG.

[0097] No icons are displayed on tabs 41p2, 41p3, and 41p5. Therefore, even if the user manipulates tabs 41p2, 41p3, and 41p5, the image displayed on the image display unit 41 will not change.

[0098] Note that the icons displayed in tabs 41p1 to 41p7 are not limited to the examples above; icons for displaying other information may also be displayed.

[0099] Next, the operation unit 42 will be described. As shown in Figure 5, the operation unit 42 is composed of one or more button-type switches on which the operator selects tabs 41p1 to 41p7, inputs settings, etc. In the example in Figure 5, the operation unit 42 includes seven switches 42a1 to 42a7 arranged in the upper row and seven switches 42b1 to 42b7 arranged in the lower row. Switches 42b1 to 42b7 are located below each of switches 42a1 to 42a7. However, the number, form, and arrangement of switches in the operation unit 42 are not limited to the example described above. For example, the functions of multiple button-type switches may be combined into one using a jog wheel, jog switch, etc., or the operation unit 42 may be separate from the display device 40. Alternatively, the tabs 41p1 to 41p7 may be directly operated using a touch panel in which the image display unit 41 and the operation unit 42 are integrated.

[0100] Switches 42a1 to 42a7 are positioned below tabs 41p1 to 41p7, corresponding to tabs 41p1 to 41p7, and function as switches to select tabs 41p1 to 41p7, respectively. Because switches 42a1 to 42a7 are positioned below tabs 41p1 to 41p7, corresponding to tabs 41p1 to 41p7, the operator can intuitively select tabs 41p1 to 41p7.

[0101] Switch 42b1 is a switch for switching the captured image displayed in the image display area 41n. Each time switch 42b1 is operated, the captured image displayed in the first image display area 41n1 of the image display area 41n is configured to switch between, for example, a rear view image, a left view image, a right view image, and an overhead view image. Alternatively, each time switch 42b1 is operated, the captured image displayed in the second image display area 41n2 of the image display area 41n may be configured to switch between, for example, a rear view image, a left view image, a right view image, and an overhead view image. Furthermore, each time switch 42b1 is operated, the captured image displayed in the first image display area 41n1 and the captured image displayed in the second image display area 41n2 of the image display area 41n may be swapped. Thus, the switch 42b1, which functions as the operation unit 42, may switch between the screens displayed in the first image display area 41n1 or the second image display area 41n2, or it may switch between the screens displayed in the first image display area 41n1 and the second image display area 41n2. Alternatively, a separate switch may be provided for switching the screen displayed in the second image display area 41n2.

[0102] Switches 42b2 and 42b3 are switches that adjust the airflow of the air conditioner. In the example shown in Figure 5, when switch 42b2 is operated, the airflow of the air conditioner decreases, and when switch 42b3 is operated, the airflow of the air conditioner increases.

[0103] Switch 42b4 is a switch that turns the cooling and heating functions ON and OFF. In the example in Figure 5, the system is configured so that the cooling and heating functions are switched ON and OFF each time switch 42b4 is operated.

[0104] Switches 42b5 and 42b6 are switches that adjust the set temperature of the air conditioner. In the example in Figure 5, when switch 42b5 is operated, the set temperature is lowered, and when switch 42b6 is operated, the set temperature is raised.

[0105] Switch 42b7 is a switch that can toggle the display of the engine operating time display area 41f.

[0106] Furthermore, switches 42a2-42a6 and 42b2-42b6 are configured to allow input of the numbers displayed on or near the respective switches. Additionally, switches 42a3, 42a4, 42a5, and 42b4 are configured to allow movement of the cursor to the left, up, right, and down, respectively, when the cursor is displayed on the menu screen.

[0107] Note that the functions assigned to switches 42a1-42a7 and 42b1-42b7 are examples only, and they may be configured to perform other functions.

[0108] As explained above, when tab 41p1 is selected while the right image RG and rear image BG are displayed in the image display area 41n, the first menu detail items are displayed in tabs 41p2 to 41p7 while the right image RG and rear image BG are displayed. Therefore, the operator can check the first menu detail items while checking the right image RG and rear image BG.

[0109] As explained above, in the example described above, when tabs 41p2 to 41p7 are selected while the right image RG and rear image BG are displayed in the image display area 41n, the rear image BG switches to a menu screen that displays information corresponding to the selected tabs 41p2 to 41p7. At this time, the display of the right image RG switches to a combination of the right image RG and the rear image BG. In this way, the menu screen is displayed with both the right image RG and the rear image BG displayed, so that a clear view of the surroundings can be maintained even when the menu screen is displayed. Therefore, it becomes possible to operate the shovel 100 while the menu screen is displayed.

[0110] Next, with reference to Figure 6, another example of the configuration of the image display unit 41 and the operation unit 42 of the display device 40 will be described. Figure 6 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the image display unit 41 and the operation unit 42 of the display device 40. The screen displayed on the image display unit 41 in Figure 6 is, for example, displayed when a tab showing machine information icons (not shown; one of the tabs 41p1 to 41p7 in Figure 5) is selected.

[0111] In the example shown in Figure 6, the image display unit 41 mainly displays the rear image BG, the right image RG, an image 41q showing machine information, and multiple tabs 41p0 to 41p7.

[0112] In the example shown in Figure 6, image 41q, which displays machine information, shows a selection screen (selection screen for target composite operation) for selecting the type of composite operation to be set for relative reactivity from among several predetermined types of composite operations. However, the menu screen is not limited to this example and may contain other information.

[0113] Tab 41p0 displays the first machine information icon, which indicates the currently selected machine information.

[0114] Tab 41p1 displays the first operability settings icon for displaying the first operability settings. When the operator selects tab 41p1, the icons associated with the first machine information displayed in tabs 41p2 to 41p7 switch to the icons associated with the first operability settings. At this point, tab 41p1 may also display the second machine information icon for displaying the second machine information.

[0115] Tabs 41p2 to 41p6 display icons for selecting, moving, and canceling items shown in image 41q, which represents machine information. When tabs 41p2 to 41p6 are selected by the operator, the items are selected, moved, or canceled.

[0116] Tab 41p7 displays a home icon for displaying a pre-configured home screen (for example, the default screen). When the user selects Tab 41p7, the pre-configured home screen is displayed. For example, the screen shown in Figure 5 is displayed as the home screen.

[0117] In the example shown in Figure 6, image 41q, which displays machine information, is an example of a menu screen.

[0118] As explained above, when a predetermined tab is selected while the right image RG and rear image BG are displayed in the image display area 41n, the rear image BG that was displayed in the second image display area 41n2 shown in Figure 5 switches to a menu screen showing machine information corresponding to the selected tab, and the right image RG that was displayed in the first image display area 41n1 shown in Figure 5 switches to a combination of the right image RG and the rear image BG. Specifically, the area where the second image display area 41n2, engine operating time display area 41f, air conditioner operating status display area 41m, and menu display area 41p shown in Figure 5 were located is now occupied by the engine operating time display area 41f, air conditioner operating status display area 41m, an area where the image 41q showing machine information is displayed, and the menu display area 41p, as shown in Figure 6. More specifically, the engine operating time display area 41f, air conditioner operating status display area 41m, and tab 41p0 are located above the area where the image 41q showing machine information is displayed. In the following, the area containing the area where tab 41p0 is displayed, the area where image 41q showing machine information is displayed, and the menu display area 41p will be referred to as area 41r. In this way, the menu screen showing machine information is displayed with the right image RG and rear image BG displayed, allowing the operator to operate the shovel 100 while checking various settings.

[0119] Next, we will explain a specific example of the relative reactivity setting screen with reference to Figures 6 and 7.

[0120] As described above, image 41q in Figure 6 shows an example of a selection screen (setting target composite operation selection screen) (setting target composite operation selection screen 300) displayed on the display device 40 of the shovel 100, which selects a composite operation of the type to be set for relative reactivity from among a predetermined number of types of composite operations.

[0121] For example, the operation screen display processing unit 301 may transition the display content of the display device 40 to the setting target composite operation selection screen 300 when a predetermined screen transition option (e.g., button icon) displayed on a predetermined screen (e.g., home screen) on the display device 40 is operated via the operation unit 42. Alternatively, the operation screen display processing unit 301 may transition the display content of the display device 40 to the setting target composite operation selection screen 300 in response to a user operation on a registration content retrieval screen for using registered content such as the current setting 3030, initial setting 3031, and custom setting 3032, which will be described later. Note that the current setting 3030 means the registered content currently in use (the current values ​​of one or more parameters), the initial setting 3031 means the initial registered content (the initial values ​​of one or more parameters), and the custom setting means the registered content (the registered values ​​of one or more parameters) that is registered to be recallable at a desired timing. The operator can return the current setting 3030 to the initial setting 3031 by performing a predetermined reset operation.

[0122] As shown in image 41q in Figure 6, the setting target complex operation selection screen 300 includes a list 304 of multiple selectable complex operations located in the center in the vertical direction. The setting target complex operation selection screen 300 also includes button icons (tabs 41p2 to 41p5) for cursor operation, located across the left and right directions at the bottom edge.

[0123] List 304 includes, as a selectable type of combined operation, a combined operation of closing arm 5 during fine grading (hereinafter referred to as "arm closing operation") and raising the boom (hereinafter referred to as "arm closing boom raising operation") ("Arm in & Boom up"). Also, as a selectable type of combined operation, List 304 includes, a combined operation of closing arm and closing bucket 6 during digging (hereinafter referred to as "bucket closing operation") (hereinafter referred to as "arm closing bucket closing operation") ("Arm in & Bucket close"). Also, as a selectable type of combined operation, List 304 includes, an arm closing boom raising operation during digging. Also, as a selectable type of combined operation, List 304 includes, a combined operation of closing bucket and raising the boom during digging (hereinafter referred to as "bucket closing boom raising operation") ("Bucket close & Boom up"). List 304 also includes, as a selectable type of combined operation, a boom-raising and swinging operation during truck loading ("Truck loading").

[0124] In this example, different relative response rates may be set between the arm cylinder 8 and the boom cylinder 7 for the arm closing boom raising operation during leveling work and the arm closing boom raising operation during excavation work. In this case, the controller 30 determines the work being performed by the shovel 100 and controls the flow rate distribution to the arm cylinder 8 and the boom cylinder 7 based on the current setting 3030 corresponding to the work, depending on whether the determined work is excavation work or leveling work. Specifically, the controller 30 may determine whether the work is excavation work or leveling work based on, for example, the measured cylinder pressure of the boom cylinder 7 or the image from a camera that captures the area in front of the shovel 100. Alternatively, the controller 30 may determine whether the work is excavation work or leveling work based on the user's operation of a switch for selecting the type of work included in the operation unit 42.

[0125] The user can move the cursor up and down by operating the button icon (tab 41p4) through the operation unit 42 (for example, the color of the name of the selectable type of compound operation changes to a different color, or an arrow is displayed) to select the desired type of compound operation. Then, with the desired type of compound operation selected by the cursor, the user can confirm the selected type of compound operation by operating the button icon (tab 41p2) through the operation unit 42.

[0126] When the type of compound operation is determined, the operation screen display processing unit 301 transitions the display content of the display device 40 to a display content that includes a relative reactivity setting screen (for example, a relative reactivity setting screen 400 described later) related to the type of compound operation for which the selection has been determined.

[0127] In this embodiment, the controller 30 displays the relative reactivity setting screen in the region 41r shown in Figure 6. Specifically, the controller 30 displays the relative reactivity setting screen 400 or information image 550, etc., described later, in the region where the image 41q showing machine information shown in Figure 6 is displayed and in the menu display region 41p. However, the controller 30 may be configured to display the relative reactivity setting screen 400 or information image 550, etc., in full screen.

[0128] Alternatively, instead of a cursor, the touch panel implemented on the display device 40 may be used to select various items. The same applies to the relative responsiveness operation screen shown in Figure 7.

[0129] Figure 7 shows a specific example of the relative reactivity setting screen.

[0130] First, Figure 7 shows an example of the relative responsiveness setting screen (relative responsiveness setting screen 400). Specifically, Figure 7 shows an example of the relative responsiveness setting screen (relative responsiveness setting screen 400) for the arm closing boom raising operation during leveling work.

[0131] As shown in Figure 7, the relative responsiveness setting screen 400 includes an image of a shovel 100 (hereinafter referred to as the "shovel image") 401 located in the center, which simulates a combined operation of the type to be set (arm closing and boom raising operation in leveling work). The relative responsiveness setting screen 400 also includes arrow icons 402 and 403, which simulate arm closing and boom raising operations, located adjacent to the parts of the shovel image 401 corresponding to the arm 5 and boom 4. The relative responsiveness setting screen 400 also includes a bar graph 404 located below the shovel image 401, which shows the relative responsiveness between the arm cylinder 8 and the boom cylinder 7. The relative responsiveness setting screen 400 also includes button icons 405 to 408 for cursor operation, which are located across the left and right sides of the lower end, similar to the setting target combined operation selection screen 300.

[0132] Bar graph 404 includes bar graph 404A, which shows the relative responsiveness of the arm cylinder 8 corresponding to the arm closing operation, and bar graph 404B, which shows the relative responsiveness of the boom cylinder 7 corresponding to the boom raising operation. Bar graphs 404A and 404B are arranged vertically, respectively, and are positioned across the left and right sides of the relative responsiveness setting screen 400.

[0133] In this example, bar graphs 404A and 404B each display 10 levels. Bar graphs 404A and 404B are displayed within the range of "level 1" to "level 9," and their sum equals "level 10." In the initial settings, for example, bar graph 404A shows "level 5" and bar graph 404B shows "level 5." In the state shown in Figure 7, bar graph 404A shows "level 4" and bar graph 404B shows "level 6," indicating that the operation of boom cylinder 7 has a slight priority over the operation of arm cylinder 8. In this way, the user can easily visually (intuitively) confirm the relative responsiveness of the two hydraulic actuators (arm cylinder 8 and boom cylinder 7), making it easy to set the relative responsiveness.

[0134] For example, the user can move the cursor up and down (for example, the "ARM IN" and "BOOM UP" text attached to bar graphs 404A and 404B change to different colors) by operating the button icon 407 through the operation unit 42, and select either bar graph 404A or 404B. Then, with either bar graph 404A or 404B selected, the user can increase the level of the selected bar graph by one step at a time by operating the button icon 408 through the operation unit 42, and decrease the level of the selected bar graph by one step at a time by operating the button icon 406. At this time, the operation screen display processing unit 301 automatically decreases or increases the level of the other unselected bar graph in accordance with the increase or decrease in the level of the selected bar graph, maintaining a state where the sum of both is "level 10". As a result, the user does not need to change the level of the other unselected bar graph, and the controller 30 can improve user convenience.

[0135] Furthermore, the operation screen display processing unit 301 may, in response to a touch operation or the like on the touch panel of the operation unit 42, change the display of one of the bar graphs 404A and 404B to the touch operation position, and change the display of the other bar graph so that the sum of the display of the other bar graph and the display of the first bar graph after the change is "level 10". As a result, the user can directly set the levels of the bar graphs 404A and 404B via the touch panel, and the controller 30 can further improve user convenience.

[0136] Furthermore, the operation screen display processing unit 301 may increase the level of one of the corresponding bar graphs 404A and 404B and decrease the level of the other bar graph in response to an operation (for example, a touch operation) performed on either of the arrow icons 402 or 403 via a touch panel or the like as the operation unit 42. This makes it easier for the user to intuitively confirm whether it is an arm closing operation or a boom raising operation using the arrow icons 402 and 403 attached to the shovel image 401, allowing them to change the relative response level setting while confirming the operation they intend to prioritize, and thus the controller 30 can further improve user convenience.

[0137] Furthermore, the operation screen display processing unit 301 may increase the level of one of the corresponding bar graphs 404A and 404B and decrease the level of the other bar graph in response to an operation (e.g., touch operation) performed on the part of the operating element (i.e., arm 5 or boom 4) driven by two hydraulic actuators corresponding to the complex operation to be set in the shovel image 401 via a touch panel or the like as the operation unit 42. This makes it easier for the user to intuitively confirm on the shovel image 401 whether it is an arm closing operation or a boom raising operation. Therefore, similar to when operations are performed on the arrow icons 402 and 403, it becomes possible to change the setting of the relative response while confirming the operation to be prioritized, and the controller 30 can further improve user convenience.

[0138] Furthermore, the size of the corresponding arrow icons 402 and 403 may change in accordance with the changes in the stages of the bar graphs 404A and 404B. Specifically, the operation screen display processing unit 301 may enlarge the arrow icon 402 corresponding to the arm closing operation as the stage of the bar graph 404A corresponding to the arm closing operation increases, and decrease the arrow icon 402 as the stage of the bar graph 404A decreases. Also, the operation screen display processing unit 301 may enlarge the arrow icon 403 corresponding to the boom raising operation as the stage of the bar graph 404B corresponding to the boom raising operation increases, and decrease the arrow icon 403 as the stage of the bar graph 404B decreases. This makes it easier for the user to visually confirm the relationship between the relative responsiveness of the two hydraulic actuators and to change the relative responsiveness settings more easily.

[0139] Then, with the bar graphs 404A and 404B changed to the desired values, the user can confirm the setting of the relative response of the arm cylinder 8 and boom cylinder 7 corresponding to the displayed content of the bar graphs 404A and 404B by operating the button icon 405 through the operation unit 42. At this time, the combined operation setting unit 302 saves the relative response of the arm cylinder 8 and boom cylinder 7 during the arm closing and boom raising operation for leveling work, corresponding to the displayed content of the bar graphs 404A and 404B, as the current setting 3030 in the storage unit 303.

[0140] When the type of registered content to be called is determined, the operation screen display processing unit 301, while retaining the type of registered content, transitions the display content of the display device 40 to the setting target composite operation selection screen. Then, as described above, when the setting target composite operation is determined in response to the user's operation through the operation unit 42, the operation screen display processing unit 301 calls (reads) the registered content of the held type from the storage unit 303 and transitions the display content of the display device 40 to the relative responsiveness setting screen that reflects the registered content. As a result, the user can set the relative responsiveness to the registered content selected on the registered content call screen by performing a confirmation operation through the operation unit 42 on the relative responsiveness setting screen, which reflects the registered content they selected (initial setting 3031, custom setting 3032).

[0141] Furthermore, in the case of custom settings, it is possible that not all types of complex operations to be configured are registered. Therefore, if, for example, only the content for one type of complex operation is registered for a certain type of custom setting, the operation screen display processing unit 301 may, when that custom setting is called, transition the display content of the display device 40 directly to the relative response rate setting screen for the corresponding type of complex operation, instead of transitioning to the setting target complex operation selection screen. Also, if, for example, only the content for some types of complex operations to be configured is registered for a certain type of custom setting, the operation screen display processing unit 301 may, when that custom setting is called, hide or display in an unoperable state the types of complex operations that are not registered as custom settings on the setting target complex operation selection screen.

[0142] The combined operation setting unit 302 (an example of a setting unit) sets the relative responsiveness of two hydraulic actuators during a combined operation for each of several types of combined operations, in response to user operations on the relative responsiveness setting screen performed through the operation input device as the operation unit 42. Operations on the relative responsiveness setting screen may include not only operations via a touch panel that can directly operate the setting screen, but also, naturally, operations on the target of operation such as cursors and icons on the operation screen through any hardware that can be included in the operation input device described above. The relative responsiveness of two hydraulic actuators during a combined operation is the degree to which the operating speeds of the two hydraulic actuators are distributed when the two hydraulic actuators are operated simultaneously, and there is a trade-off relationship such that if one is increased, the other is decreased. More specifically, the relative responsiveness of two hydraulic actuators during a combined operation, that is, the operating speed of the two hydraulic actuators which are in a trade-off relationship, may include the reaction time of each hydraulic actuator from operation to start of operation when the two hydraulic actuators are operated simultaneously, the operating speed of each hydraulic actuator, the operating acceleration, etc. In other words, the relative responsiveness of the two hydraulic actuators during a combined operation is the relative priority regarding which of the two hydraulic actuators should be operated preferentially. The relative responsiveness of the two hydraulic actuators can be changed, for example, by adjusting the flow rate distribution of the hydraulic fluid supplied to the two hydraulic actuators. That is, the combined operation setting unit 302 may set the flow rate distribution of the hydraulic fluid to the two hydraulic actuators as the relative responsiveness of the two hydraulic actuators during a combined operation, for each of a predetermined number of combined operations, in response to the user's operation on the relative responsiveness setting screen. The combined operation setting unit 302 saves the settings for each of the multiple types of combined operations in the storage unit 303 as the current setting 3030. At this time, the current setting 3030 may be stored in the storage unit 303 in a manner linked to the identification information of the current operator of the excavator 100 (for example, a predetermined operator ID (Identifier) ​​for each of the multiple operators) (hereinafter referred to as "operator identification information").For example, when the shovel 100 is started, an operation screen (hereinafter referred to as the "operator selection screen") is displayed on the display device 40 for selecting the operator who will actually operate the shovel from among several operators that have been registered in advance, and the controller 30 may identify the operator of the shovel 100 according to the operation content (selection content) by the operator. Alternatively, an indoor camera that captures the face of the operator in the cockpit may be installed inside the cabin 10, and the controller 30 may identify the operator of the shovel 100 from among several operators that have been registered in advance based on the image recognition results of the indoor camera image. In this way, the controller 30 can identify the current operator of the shovel 100 and associate operator identification information corresponding to the current operator with the current setting 3030. Furthermore, the compound operation setting unit 302 transmits the settings for each of the multiple types of compound operations, that is, the contents of the current setting 3030, to the management device as an external device via the communication device 44. In this way, the administrator of the management device can check the current settings regarding the relative response of the two hydraulic actuators during compound operations on the shovel 100. Furthermore, if the contents of the current setting 3030 are linked to operator identification information, the administrator of the control device can understand what relative reactivity settings each operator is using.

[0143] As mentioned above, Shovel 100 is equipped with a function that allows the operator to customize its operability to their preference. The operability of Shovel 100 is customized, for example, by changing values ​​such as relative responsiveness from their initial values. When such a function is present, it is desirable for the operator to be able to confirm whether the operability of Shovel 100 has been customized before operation of Shovel 100 begins. In particular, when Shovel 100 is shared by multiple operators, it is desirable for the operator to be able to confirm whether the operability of Shovel 100 has been customized, because there is a high probability that the operability of Shovel 100 has been customized by another operator.

[0144] However, in a configuration where the operator has to perform complicated operations to check whether the operability of the shovel 100 has been customized, the operator may be reluctant to go through the trouble of such complicated operations. In this case, the operator will operate the shovel 100 with operability that does not suit the operator's preferences, and there is a risk that the shovel 100 will move unintended by the operator, such as raising the boom 4 too high, closing the arm 5 too much, rotating the upper slewing body 3 too much, moving the boom 4 too quickly, moving the arm 5 too quickly, or rotating the upper slewing body 3 too quickly.

[0145] Therefore, in this embodiment, the controller 30 is configured to display information regarding custom settings on the display device 40 automatically, that is, without manual operation by the operator, before the operation of the shovel 100 is started, when predetermined conditions are met. The predetermined conditions are, for example, that parameters related to the operability of the shovel 100 have been customized. Information regarding custom settings is displayed, for example, when the engine 11 is started, or when the gate lock lever D4 is in the locked state. The information regarding custom settings is, for example, information regarding the operability of the operating lever. The information regarding the operability of the operating lever is, for example, information regarding the relative responsiveness.

[0146] Specifically, information regarding custom settings includes, for example, information indicating that the current settings for the operability of the control levers differ from the default settings. This information may be presented as text or an icon.

[0147] Furthermore, information regarding custom settings may include the current settings related to the operability of the control lever. The current settings related to the operability of the control lever may be, for example, the relative responsiveness value previously set by the operator.

[0148] Here, referring to Figure 8, we will describe the process by which the controller 30 displays information about custom settings on the display device 40 before the operation of the shovel 100 begins (hereinafter referred to as the "display process"). Figure 8 is a flowchart of an example of the display process. In the example shown in Figure 8, the controller 30 executes the display process when the rotation position of the key switch D5 is to the ACC position. That is, the controller 30 executes the display process when the rotation position of the key switch D5 is to the ACC position while the engine 11 is not running. However, the controller 30 may also execute the display process when the state of the gate lock lever D4 is switched from the locked state to the unlocked state. In this case, the controller 30 may also execute the display process when the state of the gate lock lever D4 is switched from the locked state to the unlocked state, even when the engine 11 is running. That is, the controller 30 may be configured not to execute the display process until the state of the gate lock lever D4 is switched from the locked state to the unlocked state, even when the engine 11 is running.

[0149] First, the controller 30 determines whether the parameter has been changed from its initial value (step ST1). In the example shown in Figure 8, the parameter is, for example, a parameter related to the operability of the shovel 100. The parameter related to the operability of the shovel 100 is, for example, relative responsiveness. Specifically, if the value of relative responsiveness is different from the initial value stored as the initial setting 3031, the controller 30 determines that the value of relative responsiveness as a parameter has been changed from its initial value. On the other hand, if the value of relative responsiveness is the same as the initial value stored as the initial setting 3031, the controller 30 determines that the value of relative responsiveness as a parameter has not been changed from its initial value.

[0150] If it is determined that the parameters have not been changed from their initial values ​​(NO in step ST1), the controller 30 displays the home screen (step ST5). In the example shown in Figure 8, the controller 30 displays the home screen shown in Figure 5 on the display device 40. In other words, information regarding custom settings is not displayed if the current settings for the operability of the control lever are at their initial settings.

[0151] On the other hand, if it is determined that a parameter has been changed from its initial value (YES in step ST1), the controller 30 displays information about the custom setting (step ST2). In the example shown in Figure 8, the controller 30 displays the information image 550 shown in Figure 9 in the region 41r shown in Figure 6. In this way, information about the custom setting is displayed simultaneously with at least one of the setting status information, operating status information, and captured image. The information image 550 includes a text message indicating that a parameter has been changed from its initial value. The text message in Figure 9 ("MULTI FUNCTION SETTING ACTIVE") indicates that the relative reactivity setting is active, that is, the value of the relative reactivity has been changed from its initial value. Also, the text message in Figure 9 ("ADDITIONAL PUMP FLOW ACTIVE") indicates that the additional supply of hydraulic fluid by the hydraulic pump is active, that is, the value of another parameter other than the relative reactivity has been changed from its initial value. However, the information image 550 may also be a graphic image such as an icon indicating that a parameter has been changed from its initial value, or it may be a combination of a graphic image and a text message.

[0152] Furthermore, the information regarding custom settings displayed on the display device 40 may include more detailed information. More detailed information may include, for example, the current setting value regarding the operability of the operating lever, or information contained in the setting target composite operation selection screen 300 shown in Figure 6, or the relative responsiveness setting screen 400 shown in Figure 7.

[0153] Subsequently, the controller 30 determines whether or not a switch operation has been performed (step ST3). In the example shown in Figure 8, the controller 30 determines whether or not the tab 555 shown in Figure 9 has been touched. The home icon is displayed on tab 555.

[0154] If it is determined that a switch operation has been performed (YES in step ST3), the controller 30 displays the home screen (step ST5). In the example shown in Figure 8, if the tab 555 on which the home icon is displayed is touched, the controller 30 displays the home screen shown in Figure 5 on the display device 40.

[0155] The controller 30 may be configured to display the home screen on the display device 40 after it has displayed information regarding the custom settings and has detected that the operating lever has been operated. Alternatively, the controller 30 may be configured to display the home screen on the display device 40 after it has displayed information regarding the custom settings and has detected that the state of the gate lock lever D4 has switched from the locked state to the unlocked state.

[0156] If it is determined that no switch operation has been performed (NO in step ST3), the controller 30 determines whether a certain amount of time has elapsed (step ST4). In the example shown in Figure 8, the controller 30 determines whether the elapsed time since the time when the custom setting information was displayed without the tab 555 being touched has exceeded a predetermined time.

[0157] If it is determined that a certain amount of time has not elapsed (NO in step ST4), the controller 30 returns to step ST3. In other words, the controller 30 repeats the determination in step ST3 and the determination in step ST4 until a certain amount of time has elapsed. In the example shown in Figure 8, the controller 30 repeatedly determines whether the tab 555 has been touched and whether the elapsed time since the custom setting information was displayed has exceeded a predetermined time.

[0158] If it is determined that a certain amount of time has elapsed (YES in step ST4), the controller 30 displays the home screen (step ST5). In the example shown in Figure 8, if the elapsed time from the time the custom setting information was displayed exceeds a predetermined time before the tab 555 is touched, the controller 30 displays the home screen shown in Figure 5 on the display device 40. That is, if the elapsed time from the time the custom setting information was displayed exceeds a predetermined time without the tab 555 being touched, the controller 30 erases the custom setting information from the image display area 41n in the image display unit 41 of the display device 40. This is to allow other information to be displayed.

[0159] This display process allows the controller 30 to automatically display information about custom settings on the display device 40 without requiring the operator to perform complicated manual operations, for example, if parameters related to the operability of the shovel 100 have been changed from their initial values. The operator can then easily check whether the operability of the shovel 100 has been customized before starting to operate the shovel 100, without performing complicated manual operations. Complicated manual operations include, for example, pressing one or more tabs from tabs 41p1 to 41p7 shown in Figure 5 once or multiple times to display the relative responsiveness setting screens shown in Figure 7 one by one on the display device 40.

[0160] Therefore, the controller 30 can prevent situations in which the operator operates the shovel 100 with operability that does not suit the operator's preferences. This is because the operator can notice that the operability of the shovel 100 has been customized by looking at the custom setting information displayed on the display device 40. Furthermore, if the custom setting information displayed on the display device 40 includes detailed information, the operator can easily check how the operability of the shovel 100 has been customized and easily confirm whether the custom setting is the desired custom setting. Moreover, even if the current custom setting differs from the desired custom setting, the operator can easily recognize which parameter values ​​need to be changed and achieve the desired custom setting with the minimum necessary manual operation.

[0161] As a result, the controller 30 can prevent the shovel 100 from moving in ways unintended by the operator, such as the boom 4 rising too high, the arm 5 closing too much, the upper slewing body 3 rotating too much, the boom 4 moving too quickly, the arm 5 moving too quickly, or the upper slewing body 3 rotating too quickly. In turn, it can improve the safety of workers working around the shovel 100.

[0162] Furthermore, the controller 30 may display information regarding custom settings on the display device 40 before the operation of the shovel 100 begins, regardless of whether the parameters have been changed from their initial values. For example, the controller 30 may display information regarding custom settings on the display device 40 when the rotation position of the key switch D5 is set to the ACC position, or when the state of the gate lock lever D4 is switched from the locked state to the unlocked state. In this case, if the parameters have not been changed from their initial values, the controller 30 may display a text message indicating that the parameters are at their initial values ​​as information regarding custom settings. Thus, information regarding custom settings may be displayed when safety is ensured. A state where safety is ensured is, for example, a state in which the shovel does not move even when the operating lever is moved.

[0163] Next, we will refer to Figure 10 and explain the shovel / operator selection screen. Figure 10 is a diagram showing an example of the shovel / operator selection screen (shovel / operator selection screen 600) displayed on the display device 40.

[0164] As shown in Figure 10, the shovel / operator selection screen 600 includes a list 601 of multiple selectable shovels 100 and a list 602 of multiple selectable operators.

[0165] The user can use custom settings related to the operability of the shovel 100, such as relative responsiveness, which are stored in association with the selected shovel or operator, by selecting and confirming either shovel 100 or operator via the control unit 42. The display content of the display device 40 then transitions from the shovel / operator selection screen 600 to the combined operation selection screen for settings.

[0166] As described above, the excavator 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises a lower traveling body 1, an upper rotating body 3 rotatably mounted on the lower traveling body 1, a cabin 10 serving as an operator's cabin mounted on the upper rotating body 3, and a display device 40 located in the cabin 10. The excavator 100 is configured to display information regarding custom settings on the display device 40 before operation begins.

[0167] "Before starting operation" refers to situations such as when the key switch D5 is rotated to the ACC, ON, or START position; when the gate lock lever D4 is locked; after the engine has started and the gate lock lever D4 is locked; when the operating lever is in the neutral position; or after the engine has started and the operating lever is in the neutral position.

[0168] Information regarding custom settings may be displayed, for example, when the engine is started, or when the gate lock lever is locked.

[0169] For example, if the values ​​of the parameters related to the operability of the shovel 100 have been changed from their initial values, the shovel 100 is configured to automatically display information about the custom settings on the display device 40 when the rotation position of the key switch D5 is set to the ACC position, without requiring any manual operation such as switch operation by the operator.

[0170] With this configuration, the excavator 100 can automatically display information about custom settings on the display device 40 before operation of the excavator 100 begins, even if the operator does not perform any operations to display the relative responsiveness setting screen on the display device 40. Therefore, the operator can check, for example, whether the parameters related to the operability of the excavator 100 have been customized without having to perform complicated manual operations.

[0171] The information regarding custom settings may, for example, be information regarding the operability of the operating lever. The information regarding the operability of the operating lever may, for example, be information regarding the movement of the hydraulic actuator when the operating lever is operated, that is, when the operating lever is tilted (moved from the neutral position). Specifically, the information regarding the operability of the operating lever may be information regarding the correspondence between the operation content of the operating lever (e.g., operation amount, operation speed, or operation acceleration, etc.) and the operation content of the hydraulic actuator (e.g., operation amount, operation speed, or operation acceleration, etc.) when the conditions related to the engine 11 are equal. Alternatively, the information regarding the operability of the operating lever may be information regarding the distribution of the flow rate of hydraulic fluid supplied to each of the multiple hydraulic cylinders when a compound operation is performed. The information regarding the rotational speed of the engine 11 displayed in the rotational speed level display area 41i or the engine control status display area 41e, etc., is not included in the information regarding the operability of the operating lever. Furthermore, the information regarding custom settings may, for example, be information indicating that the current setting regarding the operability of the operating lever is different from the initial setting. Furthermore, the information regarding custom settings may include the current setting content regarding the operability of the operating lever. The current settings for the operability of the control lever are, for example, the current value of 3030 for relative reactivity.

[0172] Alternatively, when a standalone operation is performed to move a single hydraulic actuator, the information relating to the operability of the operating lever may be information relating to the relative responsiveness of a single hydraulic actuator to the operation of a single operating lever (e.g., operating amount, operating speed, or operating acceleration, etc.) under the same conditions for the engine 11. Specifically, when such a standalone operation is performed, the information relating to the operability of the operating lever may be information relating to the amount of hydraulic fluid supplied to the hydraulic actuator in relation to the operation of a single operating lever under the same conditions for the engine 11. Alternatively, when such a standalone operation is performed, the information relating to the operability of the operating lever may be information relating to the opening amount (opening area) of the directional control valves (control valves 171, 172, 173, 174, 175L, 175R, 176L, 176R) in relation to the operation of a single operating lever under the same conditions for the engine 11.

[0173] Alternatively, when a combined operation is performed to move multiple hydraulic actuators, the information regarding the operability of the operating lever may be information regarding the relative responsiveness of the multiple hydraulic actuators to the operation content of the multiple operating levers (e.g., operating amount, operating speed, or operating acceleration, etc.) when the conditions for the engine 11 are equal. When such a combined operation is performed, the information regarding the operability of the operating lever may be information regarding the distribution of the amount of hydraulic fluid supplied to the multiple hydraulic actuators when the conditions for the engine 11 are equal. Alternatively, when such a combined operation is performed, the information regarding the operability of the operating lever may be information regarding the opening amount (opening area) of the directional control valves (control valves 171, 172, 173, 174, 175L, 175R, 176L, 176R) corresponding to each of the multiple hydraulic actuators when the conditions for the engine 11 are equal.

[0174] Preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above. Various modifications, substitutions, etc., can be applied to the embodiments described above without departing from the scope of the present invention. Furthermore, features described separately can be combined as long as no technical inconsistencies arise.

[0175] For example, in the embodiment described above, the controller 30 conveys information about custom settings to the operator by displaying an information image 550 as shown in Figure 9. However, in addition to displaying the information image 550, or instead of displaying the information image 550, the controller 30 may also convey information about custom settings to the operator by outputting a sound such as a buzzer sound or voice guidance. Alternatively, the controller 30 may be configured to display an image 41s as shown in Figure 11 instead of displaying the information image 550 in the area 41r shown in Figure 6. Figure 11 is a diagram showing another configuration example of the image display unit 41 and the operation unit 42 of the display device 40, and corresponds to Figure 5. The information displayed in the image display unit 41 shown in Figure 11 differs from the information displayed in the image display unit 41 shown in Figure 5 in that it includes an image 41s. The image 41s is an icon that indicates that there is information to be conveyed to the operator of the shovel 100. The display of the image 41s may be omitted if there is no information to be conveyed to the operator of the shovel 100 at the present time. Information that should be conveyed to the operator of the shovel 100 is, for example, that a parameter has been changed from its initial value. In this case, the operator who sees image 41s can easily recognize that there is information to be confirmed (for example, that a parameter has been changed from its initial value). In this case, the operator can display detailed information about the information to be confirmed by, for example, touching the area where image 41s is displayed. The detailed information is, for example, the information contained in the setting target composite operation selection screen 300 shown in Figure 6, the relative responsiveness setting screen 400 shown in Figure 7, etc. Image 41s may be an icon indicating that a parameter related to operability has been changed from its initial value, or it may be a text message. Also, image 41s may be displayed by flashing, or it may be highlighted in other ways.

[0176] Furthermore, the shovel 100 may be a remotely operated shovel. In this case, the operator in the remote control room exchanges information between the shovel 100 and the remote control room via a communication device 44 mounted on the shovel 100. For example, the operator starts the shovel 100 by operating a key switch installed in the remote control room. At this time, the control device installed in the remote control room sends a start command to the shovel 100. When the shovel 100 receives the start command via the communication device 44, it starts and, if the parameters have been changed from their initial values, sends a warning command to the remote control room. Upon receiving the warning command, the control device in the remote control room displays information about the custom settings on a display device. This display device is another example of a display device for the shovel and is installed in the remote control room for use by the operator when operating the shovel 100. This display device may be, for example, a display installed to surround the operator. In this case, the position on the display where the custom setting information is displayed may correspond to the position of the display device 40 in the cabin 10 (for example, a position diagonally in front of the operator to the right). In this case, the operator in the remote control room can experience a sense of realism as if they were looking at the display device 40 inside the cabin 10.

[0177] This application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2021-062429, filed on 31 March 2021, and the entire contents of that Japanese Patent Application are incorporated herein by reference. [Explanation of symbols]

[0178] 1. Lower traveling body 1L, 1R. Travel hydraulic motor 2. Swivel mechanism 2A. Swivel hydraulic motor 3. Upper slewing body 4. Boom 5. Arm 6. Bucket 7. Boom cylinder 8. Arm cylinder 9. Bucket cylinder 10. Cabin 11. Engine 11a. Alternator 11b. Starter 13L, 13R. Regulator 14, 14L, 14R. Main pump 14a. Regulator 14b. Discharge pressure sensor 14c. Oil temperature sensor 15. Pilot pump 17. Control valve unit 18L, 18R. Throttle 19L, 19R. Control pressure sensor 26. Operating device 28L, 28R. Discharge pressure sensor 29...Operating pressure sensor 30...Controller 35...Switching valve 40...Display device 40a...Control unit 41...Image display unit 42...Operation unit 49...Alarm device 50...Driver's side operation unit 70...Battery 74...Engine control unit 75...Dial 76...ECO button 80...Imaging device 80B...Rear camera 80L...Left camera 80R...Right camera 100...Shovel 171~174, 175L, 175R, 176L, 176R...Control valve 301...Operation screen display processing unit 302...Setting unit for combined operation 303...Memory unit 3030...Current setting 3031...Initial setting 3032...Custom setting BG...Rear view C1L, C1R...Center bypass oil passage C2L, C2R...Parallel oil passage D4...Gate lock lever D5...Key switch GC1, GC2...Image RG...Right view

Claims

1. Lower running body and An upper slewing body is mounted on the lower traveling body so as to be rotatable, The driver's cab mounted on the upper rotating body, A shovel having a display device located in the driver's cab, Before operation begins, without any manual operation by the operator, an image related to custom settings is displayed in the position where another image was previously displayed on the display device. Shovel.

2. The information regarding the aforementioned custom settings is displayed when the power source is started, or when the gate lock lever is locked. The shovel according to claim 1.

3. The information regarding the aforementioned custom settings relates to the operability of the control lever. The shovel according to claim 1.

4. The information regarding the custom settings indicates that the current settings for the operability of the control lever differ from the default settings. The shovel according to claim 1.

5. The information regarding the aforementioned custom settings includes the current settings related to the operability of the control lever. The shovel according to claim 1.

6. The system outputs information about the aforementioned custom settings as sound. The shovel according to claim 1.

7. The information regarding the aforementioned custom settings is displayed together with the setting status information. The shovel according to claim 1.

8. The information regarding the aforementioned custom settings is displayed simultaneously with the operating status information. The shovel according to claim 1.

9. The information regarding the aforementioned custom settings is displayed simultaneously with the captured image. The shovel according to claim 1.

10. The information regarding the aforementioned custom settings will be displayed when security is ensured. The shovel according to claim 1.

11. Information indicating that the current settings for the operability of the aforementioned control lever differ from the initial settings will be displayed as text information or an icon. The shovel according to claim 4.

12. A display device for an excavator used for setting up an excavator having a lower traveling body and an upper rotating body that is rotatably mounted on the lower traveling body, Before the start of operation of the aforementioned shovel, without any manual operation by the operator, an image related to custom settings is displayed in the position where another image was previously displayed. Display device for shovels.

13. The information regarding the aforementioned custom settings is displayed when power is supplied to the control unit. The shovel according to claim 1.

14. The display of information regarding the aforementioned custom settings is initiated when a predetermined condition is met and cleared when another condition is met. The shovel according to claim 1.

15. The information regarding the aforementioned custom settings is displayed when the gate lock lever state is switched from the locked state to the unlocked state. The shovel according to claim 1.

16. Before the start of operation, the conditions are: when the key switch is rotated to the ACC position, ON position, or START position; when the gate lock lever is locked; when the power source has started and the gate lock lever is locked; when the operating lever is in the neutral position; or when the power source has started and the operating lever is in the neutral position. The shovel according to claim 1.

Images