Shovel, information processing equipment

Abstract

The present invention discloses a shovel in which a technology is provided which can suitably adjust a flow rate of a hydraulic pump in a composite operation in which a preliminary attachment and another element to be driven are simultaneously operated. A shovel according to an embodiment of the present invention is provided with: a lower traveling body 1; an upper rotating body 3 rotatably mounted on the lower traveling body 1; a boom 4 mounted on the upper rotating body 3; an arm 5 mounted on the tip of the boom 4; a preliminary attachment (e.g., a breaker 90, a crusher 92) mounted of the tip of the arm 5; a main pump 14 which supplies a hydraulic oil to the preliminary attachment and another hydraulic actuator (e.g., a boom cylinder or an arm cylinder 8); and a controller 30, wherein the controller 30 performs setting pertaining to a flow rate of the main pump 14 in a composite operation in which the preliminary attachment and the other hydraulic actuator are simultaneously operated.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a shovel or the like.

Background Art

[0002] There is known a technique for appropriately adjusting the flow rate of a hydraulic pump during the operation of a preparatory attachment such as a breaker (see 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, Patent Document 1 does not mention the case where a composite operation is performed in which a preparatory attachment and other driven elements such as a boom and an arm are operated simultaneously. Therefore, for example, when the flow rate of the hydraulic pump is increased to cope with the composite operation, the flow rate of the hydraulic oil supplied to the end attachment becomes excessive, and there is a possibility of problems such as breakage.

[0005] Therefore, in view of the above problems, an object of the present disclosure is to provide a technique capable of appropriately adjusting the flow rate of a hydraulic pump during a composite operation in which a preparatory attachment and other driven elements are operated simultaneously in a shovel.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] To achieve the above object, in one embodiment of the present disclosure, a lower traveling body, an upper swing body rotatably mounted on the lower traveling body, a boom attached to the upper swing body, an arm attached to the tip of the boom, A spare attachment is attached to the tip of the aforementioned arm, A hydraulic pump that supplies hydraulic fluid to the aforementioned spare attachment and other hydraulic actuators, An input device that receives input from the user that is different from the input for operating the aforementioned spare attachment and other hydraulic actuators, A control device is provided, The control device, in response to a predetermined input received by the input device, controls the hydraulic pump during a combined operation in which the auxiliary attachment and the other hydraulic actuator are operated simultaneously. maximum Regarding flow rate setting The settings are determined, and during the combined operation, the flow rate of the hydraulic pump is controlled based on the settings. A shovel will be provided.

[0007] In other embodiments of this disclosure, A communication unit that communicates with an excavator having a lower traveling body, an upper rotating body that is rotatably mounted on the lower traveling body, a boom attached to the upper rotating body, an arm attached to the tip of the boom, a spare attachment attached to the tip of the arm, and a hydraulic pump that supplies hydraulic fluid to the spare attachment and other hydraulic actuators. An input unit that receives input from the user that is different from the input for operating the aforementioned spare attachment and other hydraulic actuators, In response to a predetermined input received by the input unit, the hydraulic pump operates simultaneously in a combined operation where the auxiliary attachment and the other hydraulic actuator. maximum Regarding flow rate setting It includes a setting unit for making settings, The communication unit transmits the settings configured by the setting unit to the shovel, thereby controlling the flow rate of the hydraulic pump based on the settings during the complex operation of the shovel. An information processing device is provided. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the above embodiment, in the excavator, it is possible to provide a technique capable of appropriately adjusting the flow rate of the hydraulic pump during a combined operation in which the preliminary attachment and other driven elements are operated simultaneously.

Brief Description of Drawings

[0009] [Figure 1A] It is a figure which shows an example of the excavator which concerns on one Embodiment. [Figure 1B] It is a figure which shows another example of the excavator which concerns on one Embodiment. [Figure 1C] It is a figure which shows still another example of the excavator which concerns on one Embodiment. [Figure 2A] It is a figure which shows an example of the structure of the excavator which concerns on one Embodiment. [Figure 2B] It is a figure which shows another example of the structure of the excavator which concerns on one Embodiment. [Figure 3A] It is a figure which shows the first example of the preliminary flow rate setting screen. [Figure 3B] It is a figure which shows the first example of the preliminary flow rate setting screen. [Figure 3C] It is a figure which shows the first example of the preliminary flow rate setting screen. [Figure 4A] It is a figure which shows the second example of the preliminary flow rate setting screen. [Figure 4B] It is a figure which shows the second example of the preliminary flow rate setting screen. [Figure 4C] It is a figure which shows the second example of the preliminary flow rate setting screen. [Figure 5] It is a figure which shows an example of the excavator support system.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0011] [Overview of Excavator] First, referring to FIG. 1 (FIGS. 1A to 1C), the overview of the excavator 100 according to the present embodiment will be described.

[0012] Figures 1A to 1C show an example, another example, and yet another example of the shovel 100 according to this embodiment.

[0013] The shovel 100 according to this embodiment comprises a lower traveling body 1, an upper rotating body 3 mounted on the lower traveling body 1 so as to be rotatable via a slewing mechanism 2, a boom 4, an arm 5, and an end attachment as attachments (working devices), and a cabin 10.

[0014] The lower travel body 1 includes, for example, a pair of left and right crawlers, and each crawler is hydraulically driven by travel hydraulic motors 1L, 1R (see Figure 2), thereby enabling the shovel 100 to travel (self-propel).

[0015] The upper rotating body 3 rotates relative to the lower traveling body 1 when driven by the rotating hydraulic motor 2A (see Figure 2).

[0016] The boom 4 is pivotally attached to the front center of the upper slewing body 3 so as to be able to move up and down, the arm 5 is pivotally attached to the tip of the boom 4 so as to be able to rotate up and down, and the end attachment is pivotally attached to the tip of the arm 5 so as to be able to rotate up and down. The boom 4, arm 5, and end attachment are hydraulically driven to change their respective positions (rotation axes) by the boom cylinder 7, arm cylinder 8, and bucket cylinder 9, which act as hydraulic actuators.

[0017] The end attachment is mounted on the arm 5 in a manner that allows it to be replaced as appropriate depending on the work being performed by the shovel 100.

[0018] For example, as shown in Figure 1A, a bucket 6 is attached to the tip of the arm 5 as an end attachment. Also, as shown in Figures 1B and 1C, a spare attachment may be mounted on the tip of the arm 5 as an end attachment instead of the bucket 6. For example, as shown in Figure 1B, a breaker 90 (an example of a spare attachment) is attached to the tip of the arm 5. Also, as shown in Figure 1C, a crusher 92 (an example of a spare attachment) is attached to the tip of the arm 5. There are also spare attachments (for example, a tilt rotator) that are interposed between the arm 5 and the end attachment and attached to the tip of the arm 5.

[0019] Furthermore, the spare attachment has a built-in hydraulic actuator that drives itself. Therefore, in the following description, the spare attachment will be treated as a hydraulic actuator when compared to other hydraulic actuators (e.g., boom cylinder 7), and as a driven element when compared to other driven elements (e.g., boom 4).

[0020] Cabin 10 is the cockpit where the operator and other personnel are seated, and it is mounted on the front left side of the upper rotating body 3.

[0021] The shovel 100 operates its driven elements, such as the lower travel body 1 (left and right crawlers), upper slewing body 3, boom 4, arm 5, and bucket 6, in response to the operation of the operator seated in the cabin 10.

[0022] Furthermore, instead of being configured to be operable by an operator in the cabin 10, or in addition to being configured to be remotely operated from outside the shovel 100, it may also be configured to be remotely operated. When the shovel 100 is remotely operated, the cabin 10 may be unoccupied. The following explanation will proceed on the premise that operator operation includes at least one of operation of the operator's control device 26 in the cabin 10 and remote operation by an external operator.

[0023] Remote control includes, for example, a mode in which the shovel 100 is operated by operational inputs to the actuator of the shovel 100 performed by a predetermined external device. The predetermined external device is, for example, as described later. support This is device 200. In this case, the shovel 100 may transmit image information (captured images) output by an imaging device that captures images of the area around the upper rotating body 3 to an external device, and the image information may be displayed on a display device (hereinafter referred to as the "remote control display device") provided on the external device. Similarly, various information images (information screens) displayed on a display device 50 inside the cabin 10 of the shovel 100, which will be described later, may also be displayed on the remote control display device of the external device. This allows the operator of the external device to remotely control the shovel 100 while checking the displayed content, such as captured images and information screens showing the area around the shovel 100, displayed on the remote control display device. The shovel 100 may then operate actuators in response to remote control signals received from the external device that represent the content of the remote control, and drive driven elements such as the lower traveling body 1 (left and right crawlers), the upper rotating body 3, the boom 4, the arm 5, and the bucket 6.

[0024] Furthermore, remote operation may include, for example, a mode in which the shovel 100 is operated by external voice input or gesture input from people (e.g., workers) in the vicinity of the shovel 100. Specifically, the shovel 100 recognizes voices spoken or gestures made by surrounding workers through a voice input device (e.g., microphone) or gesture input device (e.g., imaging device) mounted on the shovel 100. Then, the shovel 100 may operate actuators according to the content of the recognized voices or gestures to drive driven elements such as the lower traveling body 1 (left and right crawlers), the upper slewing body 3, the boom 4, the arm 5, and the bucket 6.

[0025] Furthermore, the shovel 100 may operate its actuators automatically, regardless of the operator's actions. This enables the shovel 100 to automatically operate at least some of its driven elements, such as the lower travel body 1 (left and right crawlers), the upper slewing body 3, the boom 4, the arm 5, and the bucket 6 (a so-called "automatic driving function" or "machine control function").

[0026] The automatic driving function may include a function that automatically operates driven elements (hydraulic actuators) other than the target driven element (hydraulic actuator) in response to the operator's operation device 26 or remote operation (a so-called "semi-automatic driving function"). The automatic driving function may also include a function that automatically operates at least some of the multiple driven elements (hydraulic actuators) on the premise that there is no operator's operation device 26 or remote operation (a so-called "fully automatic driving function"). In the case of the excavator 100, if the fully automatic driving function is enabled, the interior of the cabin 10 may be unoccupied. Furthermore, the semi-automatic driving function and fully automatic driving function may include a mode in which the operation content of the driven elements (hydraulic actuators) that are the target of automatic driving is automatically determined according to predetermined rules. Furthermore, the semi-automatic driving function and fully automatic driving function may also include a mode in which the excavator 100 autonomously makes various judgments, and the operation content of the driven elements (hydraulic actuators) that are the target of automatic driving is autonomously determined according to the results of those judgments (a so-called "autonomous driving function").

[0027] [Shovel configuration] Next, the configuration of the shovel 100 will be explained with reference to Figures 1A to 1C, as well as Figure 2 (Figures 2A and 2B).

[0028] Figures 2A and 2B show an example and another example of the configuration of the shovel 100 according to this embodiment, respectively. Specifically, Figure 2A shows the configuration of the shovel 100 when the breaker 90 is installed, and Figure 2B shows the configuration of the shovel 100 when the crusher 92 is installed.

[0029] In the diagram, mechanical power lines are shown with double lines, high-pressure hydraulic lines with solid lines, pilot lines with dashed lines, and electric drive / control lines with dotted lines. Furthermore, when the bucket 6 is attached, the breaker 90 and crusher 92 shown in Figures 2A and 2B are omitted, and only the output oil passage of the control valve 177 is closed; therefore, these are not shown.

[0030] <Excavator hydraulic drive system> The hydraulic drive system of the excavator 100 according to this embodiment includes hydraulic actuators that hydraulically drive each of the driven elements, such as the lower traveling body 1, upper slewing body 3, boom 4, arm 5, the posture (rotation axis) of the end attachment, and the spare attachments (breaker 90, crusher 92). The hydraulic actuators include travel hydraulic motors 1L, 1R, slewing hydraulic motor 2A, boom cylinder 7, arm cylinder 8, bucket cylinder 9, and hydraulic mechanisms built into the spare attachments. Furthermore, the hydraulic drive system of the excavator 100 according to this embodiment includes an engine 11, main pumps 14L, 14R, and a control valve 17.

[0031] 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.

[0032] 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 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, the piston stroke length is adjusted by adjusting the angle (tilt angle) of the swash plate by the regulators 13L and 13R, thereby controlling the discharge flow rate (discharge pressure).

[0033] The control valve 17 is a hydraulic control device that is mounted, for example, in the center of the upper rotating body 3 and controls the hydraulic drive system in response to operation of the operating device 26 by an operator or other person, or remote control. The control valve 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 each hydraulic actuator according to the state of operation of the operating device 26 or remote control. Specifically, the control valve 17 includes control valves 171, 172, 173, 174, 175L, 175R, 176L, 176R, and 177 that control the flow rate and direction of the hydraulic fluid supplied from the main pumps 14L and 14R to each hydraulic actuator. The control valve 17 also includes a neutral cut-off valve 178 for the center bypass oil passage C1R.

[0034] The hydraulic drive system of the Shovel 100 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.

[0035] The center bypass oil passage C1L starts from the main pump 14L and passes through control valves 177, 171, 173, 175L, and 176L located within the control valve 17 in sequence, before reaching the hydraulic oil tank.

[0036] The center bypass oil passage C1R starts from the main pump 14R and passes sequentially through the control valves 172, 174, 175R, 176R located within the control valve 17, and the neutral cut-off valve 178, before reaching the hydraulic oil tank. In this example, the control valves 172, 174, 175R, and 176R constantly maintain the center bypass oil passage C1R in a connected state. Therefore, the center bypass oil passage C1R remains connected as long as the neutral cut-off valve 178 is open.

[0037] 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.

[0038] 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.

[0039] 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.

[0040] 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.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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.

[0043] The control valve 177 is a spool valve that supplies the hydraulic fluid discharged by the main pump 14L to the auxiliary attachment.

[0044] For example, as shown in Figure 2A, the breaker 90 is single-acting, and the hydraulic fluid flows in only one direction. Therefore, the control valve 177 uses the central spool position to stop the supply of hydraulic fluid to the breaker 90, and the left spool position to supply hydraulic fluid to the breaker 90.

[0045] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 2B, for example, the crusher is double-acting, and hydraulic fluid flows in two directions. Therefore, the control valve 177 supplies the hydraulic fluid discharged by the main pump 14L to the auxiliary attachment, and also discharges the hydraulic fluid in the auxiliary attachment to the hydraulic fluid tank. In other words, the control valve 177 uses a central spool position to stop the supply of hydraulic fluid to the crusher 92, a left spool position to supply hydraulic fluid to the crusher 92 in a first direction, and a right spool position to supply hydraulic fluid to the crusher 92 in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

[0046] 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.

[0047] The neutral cut-off valve 178 is located downstream of the control valve 176R of the center bypass oil passage C1R and upstream of the negative control throttle (hereinafter referred to as "negative control throttle") 18R, which will be described later. The neutral cut-off valve 178 is normally open, and is closed in response to a control command from the controller 30. By closing under the control of the controller 30, the neutral cut-off valve 178 can shut off the center bypass oil passage C1R downstream of the control valve 176R.

[0048] The parallel oil passage C2L supplies 14L of hydraulic fluid from the main pump 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 14L of hydraulic fluid from the main pump to each of the control valves 171, 173, 175L, and 176R in parallel. 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.

[0049] 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. As a result, 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.

[0050] Bypass oil passage C3 connects the oil passage portion between the control valve 176R and the neutral cut-off valve 178 of the center bypass oil passage C1R to the oil passage portion upstream of the control valve 177 of the center bypass oil passage C1L. A check valve is also provided in bypass oil passage C3, and bypass oil passage C3 only allows the flow of hydraulic fluid from the center bypass oil passage C1R to the center bypass oil passage C1L. As a result, when the neutral cut-off valve 178 is closed, bypass oil passage C3 can merge the hydraulic fluid of the center bypass oil passage C1R, that is, the hydraulic fluid of the main pump 14R, upstream of the control valve 177 of the center bypass oil passage C1L. Therefore, the auxiliary attachment can receive hydraulic fluid from both the main pumps 14L and 14R through the control valve 177 under the control of the controller 30.

[0051] <Shovel operation system> The operating system of the shovel 100 according to this embodiment includes a pilot pump 15 and an operating device 26.

[0052] 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.

[0053] The operating device 26 is, for example, located near the cockpit of the cabin 10 and is an input means for operators to control the driven elements (lower traveling body 1, upper slewing body 3, boom 4, arm 5, end attachment posture (rotation axis), spare attachment, etc.). In other words, the operating device 26 is an input means for operating the hydraulic actuators that drive each of the driven elements (i.e., traveling hydraulic motors 1L, 1R, slewing hydraulic motor 2A, boom cylinder 7, arm cylinder 8, bucket cylinder 9, and spare attachment, etc.). The operating device 26 includes, for example, four lever devices for controlling the posture (rotation axis) of the upper slewing body 3 (slewing hydraulic motor 2A), boom 4 (boom cylinder 7), arm 5 (arm cylinder 8), and end attachment (bucket cylinder 9). Furthermore, the operating device 26 includes, for example, two lever or pedal devices for operating the left and right crawlers (driving hydraulic motors 1L, 1R) of the lower traveling body 1 (their respective rotation axes). The operating device 26 also includes, for example, a lever or pedal device for operating a spare attachment.

[0054] As shown in Figures 2A and 2B, the operating device 26 is, for example, a hydraulic pilot type that outputs hydraulic fluid having a pilot pressure corresponding to the operation. The operating device 26 is connected to the control valve 17 via a pilot line. As a result, the control valve 17 receives a pilot pressure corresponding to the operating state of the driven element (i.e., the hydraulic actuator that drives the driven element) in the operating device 26. 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 the 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 the 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 the control valves 175L and 175R. Furthermore, the pilot pressure on the secondary side of the lever device that operates arm 5 (arm cylinder 8) acts on the pilot ports of control valves 176L and 176R. Also, the pilot pressure on the secondary side of the lever device that operates the posture of the end attachment (bucket cylinder 9) acts on the pilot port of control valve 174. In addition, the pilot pressure on the secondary side of the lever device or pedal device that operates the auxiliary attachment acts on the pilot port of control valve 177. Therefore, the control valve 17 can drive each hydraulic actuator according to the operating state of the operating device 26.

[0055] Furthermore, the operating device 26 may be an electric type that outputs an electrical signal (hereinafter referred to as "operating signal") corresponding to the operation content. In this case, the operating signal from the operating device 26 is input to the controller 30, and the controller 30 controls each control valve in the control valve 17 according to the input operating signal, thereby realizing the operation of various hydraulic actuators according to the operation content of the operating device 26. For example, the control valve in the control valve 17 may be an electromagnetic solenoid type spool valve driven by a command from the controller 30. Alternatively, for example, a hydraulic control valve (hereinafter referred to as "operating control valve") that operates according to a control command from the controller 30 may be placed between the pilot pump 15 and the pilot port of each control valve. In this case, when manual operation is performed using the electric operating device 26, the controller 30 controls the operating control valve according to a control command corresponding to the amount of operation (for example, the amount of lever operation), increasing or decreasing the pilot pressure, thereby operating each control valve in accordance with the operation content of the operating device 26.

[0056] <Excavator control system> The control system of the shovel 100 according to this embodiment includes a controller 30, regulators 13L and 13R, negative control throttling 18L and 18R, negative control pressure sensors 19L and 19R, discharge pressure sensor 28, operating pressure sensor 29, display device 50, and input device 52.

[0057] The controller 30 performs various controls related to the shovel 100. The functions of the controller 30 may be realized by any hardware, or any combination of hardware and software. For example, the controller 30 is mainly composed of a computer including a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a memory device such as RAM (Random Access Memory), a non-volatile auxiliary storage device such as ROM (Read Only Memory), and an input / output interface device. The controller 30 realizes various functions by executing various programs installed in the auxiliary storage device on the CPU, for example.

[0058] For example, the controller 30 sets a target rotational speed based on a pre-set operating mode, etc., by an operator, and performs drive control to keep the engine 11 rotating at a constant speed, either directly or via a dedicated controller for the engine 11.

[0059] 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 (flow rate) of the main pumps 14L and 14R.

[0060] Specifically, the controller 30 may control the regulators 13L and 13R so that the flow rate of the main pumps 14L and 14R is less than or equal to the maximum flow rate of the main pumps 14L and 14R, thereby adjusting the discharge rate of the main pumps 14L and 14R.

[0061] Furthermore, 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. For example, 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. In this way, 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.

[0062] Furthermore, the controller 30 may control the regulators 13L and 13R in accordance with detection signals corresponding to the control pressure (hereinafter referred to as "negative control pressure") generated by the negative control throttles 18L and 18R, which are input from the negative control pressure sensors 19L and 19R, and adjust the discharge rate of the main pumps 14L and 14R. For example, the controller 30 decreases the discharge rate of the main pumps 14L and 14R as the negative control pressure increases, and increases the discharge rate of the main pumps 14L and 14R as the negative control pressure decreases. In this case, as described above, the controller 30 controls the regulators 13L and 13R so that the discharge rate of the main pumps 14L and 14R is less than or equal to the preset maximum flow rate of the main pumps 14L and 14R, and adjusts the discharge rate of the main pumps 14L and 14R.

[0063] When none of the hydraulic actuators in the shovel 100 are operated and the machine is in standby mode (as shown in Figures 2A and 2B), the hydraulic fluid discharged from the main pumps 14L and 14R passes through the center bypass oil passages C1L and C1R to the negative control throttles 18L and 18R. The flow of hydraulic fluid discharged from the main pumps 14L and 14R increases the negative control pressure generated upstream of the negative control 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 pressure loss (pumping loss) as the discharged hydraulic fluid passes through the center bypass oil passages C1L and C1R.

[0064] On the other hand, when any of the hydraulic actuators is operated, 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 negative control throttles 18L and 18R, thereby lowering the negative control pressure generated upstream of the negative control 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.

[0065] 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.

[0066] Furthermore, for example, if the operating device 26 is electric, the controller 30 is as described above for operation control The valve is controlled to realize the operation of the hydraulic actuator according to the operation of the operating device 26.

[0067] Also, for example, the controller 30 is for operation control A valve is used to enable remote control of the shovel 100. Specifically, the controller 30 receives control commands corresponding to the remote control content specified by the remote control signal received from an external device. control It is OK to output to the valve. And for operation control The valve may use the hydraulic fluid supplied from the pilot pump 15 to output a pilot pressure corresponding to the control command from the controller 30, and apply that pilot pressure to the corresponding pilot port of the control valve in the control valve 17. As a result, the content of the remote operation is reflected in the operation of the control valve 17, and the hydraulic actuator realizes the operation of various operating elements (driven elements) in accordance with the content of the remote operation.

[0068] Also, for example, the controller 30 is for operation control Valves are used to realize the automatic operation function of the shovel 100. Specifically, the controller 30 controls the operation commands corresponding to the operation commands related to the automatic operation function. control The output may be sent to the valve. The operation command may be generated by the controller 30, or by another control device that performs control related to the automatic driving function. controlThe valve may use the hydraulic fluid supplied from the pilot pump 15 to output a pilot pressure corresponding to the control command from the controller 30, and apply that pilot pressure to the corresponding pilot port of the control valve in the control valve 17. As a result, the content of the operation command related to the automatic driving function is reflected in the operation of the control valve 17, and the operation of various operating elements (driven elements) by the automatic driving function is realized by the hydraulic actuator.

[0069] Furthermore, the controller 30 (an example of a control device) sets the discharge amount (flow rate) of the main pump 14 when the auxiliary attachment is operated, in response to user operation. At this time, the operation of the auxiliary attachment includes both standalone operation, where only the auxiliary attachment is operated, and combined operation, where the auxiliary attachment and other hydraulic actuators (e.g., boom cylinder 7) are operated simultaneously. The controller 30 includes a setting screen display processing unit 301 and a setting unit 302 as functional units realized by executing one or more programs installed in an auxiliary storage device on the CPU. The controller 30 also utilizes a setting storage unit 303. The setting storage unit 303 is realized by, for example, an auxiliary storage device within the controller 30 or an external storage device that can communicate with the controller 30.

[0070] 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.

[0071] 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.

[0072] The negative control throttles 18L and 18R are installed between the control valve 176L and the neutral cut-off valve 178, respectively, located at the furthest downstream points in the center bypass oil passages C1L and C1R, and the hydraulic oil tank. As a result, the flow of hydraulic oil discharged by the main pumps 14L and 14R is restricted by the negative control throttles 18L and 18R, and the negative control throttles 18L and 18R generate the negative control pressure described above.

[0073] The negative control pressure sensors 19L and 19R detect the negative control pressure, and the detection signal corresponding to the detected negative control pressure is input to the controller 30.

[0074] 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.

[0075] 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 (e.g., operating amount and operating direction) of each driven element (hydraulic actuator) in the operating device 26. The detection signals from the operating pressure sensor 29 for the pilot pressure corresponding to the operating state of the lower traveling body 1, upper slewing body 3, boom 4, arm 5, end attachment (and its posture), and auxiliary attachment in the operating device 26 are received by the controller 30.

[0076] Furthermore, if the operating device 26 is electrically operated, the operating pressure sensor 29 is omitted. This is because the controller 30 can determine the operating status of the operating device 26 from the content of the operating signal output from the operating device 26.

[0077] The display device 50 is installed in a location easily visible to the operator near the cockpit in the cabin 10 (for example, on the right front pillar inside the cabin 10), and displays various information images under the control of the controller 30. The display device 50 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.

[0078] The input device 52 is located within reach of a seated operator in the cabin 10 and receives various inputs from the operator. The input device 52 includes, for example, an operation input device that receives operation input from the operator. The operation input device includes a touch panel mounted on the display of the display device 50, a touch pad provided separately from the display of the display device 50, a knob switch provided at the tip of the lever part of a lever device included in the operation device 26, and button switches, levers, toggles, etc., installed around the display device 50 or located relatively far away from the display device 50. The input device 52 also includes, for example, an audio input device that receives voice input from the operator. The audio input device includes, for example, a microphone. The input device 52 also includes, for example, a gesture input device that receives gesture input from the operator. The gesture input device includes, for example, an imaging device capable of capturing images of gestures made by the operator in the cabin 10. Signals corresponding to the input content to the input device 52 are received by the controller 30.

[0079] The setting screen display processing unit 301 displays an operation screen (hereinafter referred to as the "pre-flow rate setting screen") on the display device 50 for operators to set the discharge rate of the main pump 14 when operating the spare attachment (hereinafter referred to as the "pre-flow rate setting"). Details of the pre-flow rate setting screen will be described later (see Figures 3A to 3C and 4A to 4C).

[0080] The setting unit 302 sets the preliminary flow rate in response to input from an operator or other user via the input device 52 on the preliminary flow rate setting screen. The setting unit 302 then registers the setting in the setting storage unit 303. Details of the preliminary flow rate setting will be described later (see Figures 3A to 3C and 4A to 4C).

[0081] The setting memory unit 303 stores the settings for the preliminary flow rate. As a result, the controller 30 can read and refer to the settings for the preliminary flow rate from the setting memory unit 303, and control the discharge amount of the main pump 14 when the auxiliary attachment is operated according to those settings.

[0082] [Details of the reserve flow rate setting] Next, we will explain specific examples of preliminary flow rate settings with reference to Figures 3 (Figures 3A to 3C) and 4 (Figures 4A to 4C).

[0083] <Example of setting the reserve flow rate> Figures 3A to 3C show a first example of the preliminary flow rate setting screen (preliminary flow rate setting screens 310 to 330) displayed on the display device 50. Specifically, Figure 3A shows the preliminary flow rate setting screen 310 for setting the preliminary flow rate for a single-acting preliminary attachment (e.g., a breaker 90). Figures 3B and 3C show the preliminary flow rate setting screens 320 and 330 for setting the preliminary flow rate for a double-acting preliminary attachment (e.g., a crusher 92).

[0084] As shown in Figures 3A to 3C, the preliminary flow rate setting screens 310 to 330 include a tab 311 for switching the target of the preliminary flow rate setting (bucket 6, single-acting preliminary attachment, and double-acting preliminary attachment).

[0085] Tab 311 includes tabs 311A ​​to 311C.

[0086] Tab 311A ​​is selected when setting the flow rate of the main pump 14 for bucket 6.

[0087] Tab 311B is selected when setting the preliminary flow rate for a single-acting auxiliary attachment.

[0088] Tab 311C is selected when setting the preliminary flow rate for a double-acting auxiliary attachment.

[0089] As shown in Figure 3A, tab 311B is selected on the preliminary flow rate setting screen 310.

[0090] Tab 311B includes Tab 312 for switching the type of single-acting auxiliary attachment for which the auxiliary flow rate setting is to be performed. Tab 312 contains five tabs 312A to 312E for setting the auxiliary flow rate for each of the five types of single-acting auxiliary attachments, and in this example, Tab 312A is selected. This allows the user to set different types of auxiliary flow rates for each of the multiple types of single-acting auxiliary attachments on the auxiliary flow rate setting screen 310. The screen contents when each of Tabs 312A to 312E is selected are substantially the same, so we will explain Tab 312A below.

[0091] Tab 312A displays the settings for the single-acting spare attachment. Specifically, tab 312A displays items 313 to 316.

[0092] Item 313 displays the name of a single-acting spare attachment ("WORK TOOL"). In this example, a tilt rotator ("TILT ROTATOR") is set. Users such as operators and service technicians (hereinafter simply referred to as "users") can specify item 313 via the input device 52 and set a name of their choice. Therefore, by checking the name, users can identify the desired type of spare attachment (single-acting) from among the multiple types of single-acting spare attachments set (registered) in tabs 312A to 312E.

[0093] Item 314 displays the model number ("MODEL NO.") of the single-acting spare attachment. In this example, it is set to "ABC-123". The user can specify item 314 via the input device 52 and arbitrarily set the model number of the single-acting spare attachment. Therefore, by checking the model number, the user can identify the desired type of spare attachment (single-acting) from among the multiple types of single-acting spare attachments set (registered) in tabs 312A to 312E.

[0094] Item 315 displays the setting for the discharge pressure of the main pump 14, specifically the maximum discharge pressure ("MAX PRESS."), when operating the single-acting auxiliary attachment (specifically, during standalone operation and combined operation). In this example, it is set to "20.0 MPa". The user can specify item 315 via the input device 52 and set the maximum discharge pressure within a predetermined range when operating the single-acting auxiliary attachment, specifically during standalone operation and combined operation.

[0095] Item 316 displays the settings related to the discharge flow rate ("PUMP FLOW") of the main pump 14 during operation of the single-acting auxiliary attachment (specifically, during standalone operation and combined operation). In this example, the maximum flow rate of the main pump 14 during operation of the single-acting auxiliary attachment is set to "200 L / min" (200 liters per minute). The user can specify item 316 via the input device 52 and set the discharge rate (maximum flow rate) during operation of the single-acting auxiliary attachment, specifically during standalone operation and combined operation, within a predetermined range (for example, a predetermined range of discharge volume that can be supplied by the main pump 14L alone).

[0096] Thus, in this example, the setting unit 302 sets the discharge amount of the main pump 14 during standalone operation and combined operation of the single-acting auxiliary attachment, in response to user operations via the input device 52 on the auxiliary flow rate setting screen 310. Therefore, even during combined operation of the auxiliary attachment, the discharge amount (flow rate) of the main pump 14 can be appropriately adjusted according to the settings. Thus, for example, it is possible to prevent situations where the flow rate of the auxiliary attachment becomes excessive during combined operation of the auxiliary attachment with other hydraulic actuators.

[0097] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 3B and 3C, tab 311C is selected in the preliminary flow rate setting screens 320 and 330.

[0098] Tab 311C includes Tab 322 for switching the type of double-acting auxiliary attachment for which the auxiliary flow rate setting is to be performed. Tab 322 contains five tabs 322A to 322E for setting the auxiliary flow rate for each of the five types of double-acting auxiliary attachments, and in this example, Tab 322A is selected. This allows the user to set the auxiliary flow rate in different ways for each of the multiple types of double-acting auxiliary attachments on the auxiliary flow rate setting screens 320 and 330. The screen contents when each of Tabs 322A to 322E is selected are substantially the same, so we will explain Tab 322A below.

[0099] Tab 322A displays the settings for the double-acting auxiliary attachment. Specifically, items 323 to 327 are displayed on Tab 322A.

[0100] Item 323 displays the name of the double-acting spare attachment ("WORK TOOL"). In this example, "GRAPPLE" is set. The user can specify item 323 via the input device 52 and set a name of their choice. Therefore, by checking the name, the user can identify the desired type of spare attachment from among the multiple types of double-acting spare attachments set (registered) in tabs 322A to 322E.

[0101] Item 324 displays the model number ("MODEL NO.") of the double-acting spare attachment. In this example, it is set to "ABC-123". The user can specify item 324 via the input device 52 and arbitrarily set the model number of the double-acting spare attachment. Therefore, by checking the model number, the user can identify the desired type of spare attachment (double-acting) from among the multiple types of spare attachments set (registered) in tabs 322A to 322E.

[0102] Item 325 displays the setting for the discharge pressure of the main pump 14, specifically the maximum discharge pressure ("MAX PRESS."), when operating the double-acting auxiliary attachment (specifically, during single operation and combined operation). In this example, it is set to "20.0 MPa" (20 megapascals). The user can specify item 325 via the input device 52 and set the maximum discharge pressure within a predetermined range when operating the double-acting auxiliary attachment, specifically during single operation and combined operation.

[0103] Item 326 displays the settings related to the discharge rate ("PUMP FLOW") of the main pump 14 when the double-acting auxiliary attachment is operated independently. In this example, the maximum flow rate of the main pump 14 when the double-acting auxiliary attachment is operated independently is set to "200 L / min" (200 liters per minute). The user can specify item 326 via the input device 52 and set the discharge rate (maximum flow rate) when the double-acting auxiliary attachment is operated independently within a predetermined range (for example, a predetermined range of discharge rates that can be supplied by the main pump 14L alone).

[0104] Item 327 displays the settings related to the discharge rate of the main pump 14 during combined operation of the double-acting auxiliary attachment. Specifically, item 327 displays the settings related to the additional flow rate ("ADD.FLOW LEVEL AT MULTI-FUNCTION") compared to the settings of item 326 (discharge rate of the main pump 14 during single operation) when the double-acting auxiliary attachment is in combined operation.

[0105] For example, as shown in Figure 3B, the auxiliary flow rate setting screen 320 is set to none ("OFF") for the additional flow rate relative to the discharge rate of the main pump 14 during standalone operation. In this case, the settings for the discharge rate of the main pump 14 during combined operation of the double-acting auxiliary attachment are the same as the settings for item 326. The user specifies item 327 via the input device 52 and selects "OFF". This makes the settings for the discharge rate of the main pump 14 during combined operation of the double-acting auxiliary attachment the same as the settings for the discharge rate of the main pump 14 during standalone operation.

[0106] On the other hand, as shown in Figure 3C, for example, in the reserve flow rate setting screen 330, the additional flow rate relative to the discharge rate of the main pump 14 during standalone operation is set to "ON", and the setting of the additional flow rate is displayed in a multi-stage bar graph. In this example, a bar graph of up to two stages out of a maximum of five stages is displayed. At this time, the proportion of the flow rate allocated to each stage may be different. For example, the first stage may be relatively small, and the allocated flow rate may increase as the stage progresses, or vice versa. The user specifies item 327 through the input device 52, selects "ON", and sets the stage of the bar graph corresponding to the additional flow rate. This makes it possible to set the discharge rate of the main pump 14 during combined operation of the double-acting reserve attachment to be greater than the discharge rate of the main pump 14 during standalone operation.

[0107] Furthermore, the reserve flow rate setting screen 330 highlights the setting where there is an additional flow rate ("ON") relative to the discharge rate of the main pump 14 during standalone operation. This makes it easier for the user to recognize that the discharge rate of the main pump 14 is set to be higher during combined operation of the double-acting reserve attachment than during standalone operation. As a result, the user is more likely to notice errors, and situations such as the setting for an additional flow rate being activated due to an error, leading to an excessive flow rate from the reserve attachment, can be prevented.

[0108] In this example, the setting unit 302 configures the discharge rate of the main pump 14 during standalone and combined operation of the double-acting auxiliary attachment, in response to user input via the input device 52 on the auxiliary flow rate setting screens 320 and 330. Furthermore, the setting unit 302 configures the flow rate of the main pump 14 so that the flow rate of the main pump 14 during combined operation is greater than the flow rate of the main pump 14 during standalone operation, in response to user input via the input device 52 on the auxiliary flow rate setting screens 320 and 330. This allows for appropriate adjustment of the discharge rate (flow rate) of the main pump 14 according to the settings, even during combined operation of the auxiliary attachment. Therefore, for example, it is possible to suppress situations where the flow rate of the auxiliary attachment becomes excessive during combined operation with other hydraulic actuators. It is also possible to suppress insufficient flow rate of the double-acting auxiliary attachment during combined operation.

[0109] <Second example of setting the reserve flow rate> Figures 4A to 4C show a second example of the preliminary flow rate setting screen (preliminary flow rate setting screens 410 to 430) displayed on the display device 50. Specifically, Figure 4A shows the preliminary flow rate setting screen 410 for setting the preliminary flow rate for a single-acting preliminary attachment (e.g., a breaker 90). Figures 4B and 4C show the preliminary flow rate setting screens 420 and 430 for setting the preliminary flow rate for a double-acting preliminary attachment (e.g., a crusher 92).

[0110] As shown in Figures 4A to 4C, the preliminary flow rate setting screens 410 to 430 include a tab 411 for switching the target of the preliminary flow rate setting (bucket 6, single-acting preliminary attachment, and double-acting preliminary attachment).

[0111] Tab 411 includes tabs 411A through 411C.

[0112] Tab 411 is the same as Tab 311 in Figures 3A to 3C, and Tabs 411A to 411C are the same as Tabs 311A ​​to 311C in Figures 3A to 3C, so their explanation is omitted.

[0113] As shown in Figure 4A, tab 411B is selected on the preliminary flow rate setting screen 410.

[0114] Tab 411B includes Tab 412 for switching the type of single-acting auxiliary attachment for which the auxiliary flow rate setting is to be performed. Tab 412 contains five tabs 412A to 412E for setting the auxiliary flow rate for each of the five types of single-acting auxiliary attachments, and in this example, 412E is selected.

[0115] Tab 412 is the same as Tab 312 in Figure 3A, and Tabs 412A to 412E are the same as Tabs 312A to 312E in Figures 3A to 3C, so their explanation is omitted.

[0116] Tab 412E displays the settings for the single-acting spare attachment. Specifically, tab 412E displays items 413-416, 418, and 419.

[0117] Items 413-416 are the same as items 313-316 in Figure 3A, so their explanation is omitted.

[0118] Item 418 visually displays the settings for the discharge rate of the main pump 14 when the single-acting auxiliary attachment is operated independently. Item 418 includes a gauge 418A and a shovel image 418B.

[0119] Gauge 418A displays the settings for the discharge rate (maximum flow rate) of the main pump 14 when the single-acting auxiliary attachment is operated independently, i.e., the settings for item 416, as a multi-stage bar graph. In this example, it is set to 5 out of a maximum of 10 stages. At this time, the proportion of the flow rate allocated to each stage may differ, as in the case of Figure 3C above. The same applies to gauges 419A, 428A, and 429A below.

[0120] Shovel image 418B is modeled after shovel 100. In shovel image 418B, only the part corresponding to the spare attachment (specifically, breaker 90) is highlighted, indicating that it is being operated independently.

[0121] Item 419 visually displays the settings for the discharge rate of the main pump 14 during combined operation of a single-acting auxiliary attachment. Item 419 includes a gauge 419A and a shovel image 419B.

[0122] Gauge 419A displays the settings for the discharge rate (maximum flow rate) of the main pump 14 during combined operation of the single-acting auxiliary attachment, i.e., the settings for item 416, as a multi-stage bar graph. In this example, it is set to 5 out of a maximum of 10 levels.

[0123] Shovel image 419B, like shovel image 418B, is modeled after shovel 100. Shovel image 419B is highlighted in its entirety, including the part corresponding to the spare attachment (breaker 90), indicating that it is in a combined operation.

[0124] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 4B and 4C, tab 411C is selected in the preliminary flow rate setting screens 420 and 430.

[0125] Tab 411C includes Tab 422 for switching the type of double-acting auxiliary attachment for which the auxiliary flow rate setting is to be performed. Tab 422 contains five tabs 422A to 422E for setting the auxiliary flow rate for each of the five types of double-acting auxiliary attachments, and in this example, Tab 422E is selected.

[0126] Tab 422 is the same as Tab 322 in Figures 3B and 3C, and Tabs 422A to 422E are the same as Tabs 322A to 322E in Figures 3B and 3C, so their explanation is omitted.

[0127] Tab 422E displays the settings for the double-acting auxiliary attachment. Specifically, items 423 through 429 are displayed on Tab 422E.

[0128] Items 423-426 are the same as items 323-326 in Figures 3B and 3C, so their explanations are omitted.

[0129] Item 427 displays the settings related to the discharge rate of the main pump 14 during combined operation of the double-acting auxiliary attachment. Specifically, Item 427 displays the settings related to the additional flow rate ("ADD. FLOW WITH COMBINED OPE.") compared to the settings of Item 426 (discharge rate of the main pump 14 during single operation) when the double-acting auxiliary attachment is in combined operation.

[0130] For example, as shown in Figure 4B, the auxiliary flow rate setting screen 420 is set to none ("OFF") for the additional flow rate relative to the discharge rate of the main pump 14 during standalone operation. In this case, the settings for the discharge rate of the main pump 14 during combined operation of the double-acting auxiliary attachment are the same as the settings for item 426. The user specifies item 427 via the input device 52 and selects "OFF". This makes the settings for the discharge rate of the main pump 14 during combined operation of the double-acting auxiliary attachment the same as the settings for the discharge rate of the main pump 14 during standalone operation.

[0131] On the other hand, as shown in Figure 4C, for example, the auxiliary flow rate setting screen 430 is set to "ON" for the additional flow rate relative to the discharge rate of the main pump 14 during standalone operation, and the setting for the additional flow rate is displayed numerically. In this example, it is set to "50 L / min" (50 liters per minute). The user specifies item 327 through the input device 52, selects "ON", and enters the numerical value for the additional flow rate. This allows the discharge rate of the main pump 14 during combined operation of the double-acting auxiliary attachment to be set to be greater than the discharge rate of the main pump 14 during standalone operation.

[0132] Item 428 visually displays the settings for the discharge rate of the main pump 14 when the single-acting auxiliary attachment is operated independently. Item 428 includes a gauge 428A and a shovel image 428B.

[0133] Gauge 428A displays the setting of the discharge rate (maximum flow rate) of the main pump 14 when the single-acting auxiliary attachment is operated independently, i.e., the setting of item 426, as a multi-stage bar graph. In this example, it is set to 5 out of a maximum of 10 levels.

[0134] Since shovel image 428B is the same as shovel image 418B in Figure 4A, its explanation is omitted.

[0135] Item 429 visually displays the settings for the discharge rate of the main pump 14 during combined operation of the double-acting auxiliary attachment. Item 429 includes a gauge 429A and a shovel image 429B.

[0136] Gauge 429A displays the settings for the discharge volume (maximum flow rate) of the main pump 14 during combined operation of the double-acting auxiliary attachment, i.e., the settings for item 427, in a multi-stage bar graph.

[0137] For example, as shown in Figure 4B, the preliminary flow rate setting screen 420 is set to 5 out of a maximum of 10 levels, that is, the same settings as the corresponding gauge 428A when operated independently.

[0138] On the other hand, as shown in Figure 4C, for example, the preliminary flow rate setting screen 430 is set to 7 out of a maximum of 10 levels, which is 2 levels higher than the corresponding gauge 428A when operated independently.

[0139] Since shovel image 429B is the same as shovel image 419B in Figure 4A, its explanation is omitted.

[0140] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 4C, the tab 422E of the preliminary flow rate setting screen 430 includes item 431.

[0141] Item 431 displays information regarding a warning when the additional flow rate for the discharge volume of the main pump 14 during standalone operation is set to ON in item 427. In this example, it displays "Setting an excessive additional flow rate may damage the attachment." This allows the controller 30 to prevent operators and other users from setting an excessive additional flow rate. Therefore, it is possible to prevent situations such as attachment damage caused by setting an excessive additional flow rate.

[0142] Thus, in this example, the display device 50, under the control of the setting screen display processing unit 301, displays the flow rate settings of the main pump 14 when the auxiliary attachment is operated alone and the flow rate settings of the main pump 14 when the auxiliary attachment is operated in combination, in a way that allows for comparison. This makes it easy to understand the settings.

[0143] [Shovel support System Overview Next, with reference to Figure 5, an overview of the SYS excavator support system, including excavator 100, will be described.

[0144] Figure 5 shows a shovel including the shovel 100 according to this embodiment. support This figure shows an example of the SYS system.

[0145] As shown in Figure 5, the shovel support system SYS includes a shovel 100 and a support device 200.

[0146] Shovel 100, via the communication line CN, support It is connected to device 200 in a way that allows it to communicate with it.

[0147] The support device 200 (an example of an information processing device) is connected to the excavator 100 via a communication line CN and provides support for the operation of the excavator 100. Specifically, the support device 200 may perform various settings related to the excavator 100 and process the settings to be reflected in the excavator 100 via the communication line CN. The communication line CN may include, for example, a wide area network (WAN). The wide area network may include, for example, a mobile communication network with base stations as its endpoints. The wide area network may also include, for example, a satellite communication network using communication satellites. The wide area network may also include, for example, the Internet network. The communication line CN may also include, for example, a local network (LAN). The local network may be wired or wireless. The local network may include, for example, short-range wireless communication lines such as WiFi or Bluetooth (registered trademark).

[0148] The support device 200 may be, for example, a management device (cloud server) of a management center installed outside the work site of the excavator 100. Alternatively, the support device 200 may be, for example, an edge server installed in a temporary office within the work site of the excavator 100 or in a location relatively close to the work site of the excavator 100 (for example, a station building or base station). Furthermore, the support device 200 may be, for example, a stationary terminal device (for example, a desktop computer terminal) installed in a temporary office at the work site of the excavator 100. Additionally, the support device 200 may be, for example, a portable terminal (for example, a smartphone, tablet, or laptop computer terminal) carried by an operator, supervisor, or worker at the work site of the excavator 100.

[0149] [Shovel support System Configuration Next, referring to Figure 5, shovel support This document describes the configuration of the SYS system.

[0150] As shown in Figure 5, the shovel 100 includes a communication device T1.

[0151] Communication device T1 communicates with support device 200, etc., via communication line CN. As a result, shovel 100 support Various signals can be received from device 200.

[0152] The configuration of shovel 100 may be the same as in the cases of Figures 2A and 2B described above, except that the communication device T1 is added.

[0153] As shown in Figure 5, the support device 200 includes a control device 210, a communication device 220, a display device 230, and an input device 240.

[0154] The control device 210 (an example of a setting unit) is: support The control device 200 is controlled by the control device 210. The functions of the control device 210 may be realized by any hardware, or any combination of hardware and software. The control device 210 is mainly composed of a computer including, for example, a CPU, a memory device such as RAM, an auxiliary storage device such as ROM, and an interface device for input / output with the outside world.

[0155] The communication device 220 (an example of a communication unit) communicates with the shovel 100, etc., via the communication line CN. The communication device 220 may communicate directly with the shovel 100 via the communication line CN, or it may communicate with a predetermined relay device via the communication line CN and then communicate with the shovel 100 through the relay device. If the support device 200 is a stationary terminal device or a portable terminal, the relay device may be a server device (management device) that manages the shovel 100.

[0156] The display device 230, under the control of the control device 210, displays an informational image for the user of the support device 200.

[0157] The input device 240 receives various inputs from the user of the support device 200, and the signals corresponding to the input content are taken into the control device 210. The input device 240 includes, for example, an operation input device that receives operation input from the user. The operation input device includes, for example, a touch panel mounted on the display device 230, a touch pad provided separately from the display device 230, a keyboard, a mouse, etc. The input device 240 may also include, for example, an audio input device or a gesture input device that receives voice input or gesture input from the user.

[0158] [Shovel support [System-based pre-flow rate setting] Next, continuing with Figure 5, the shovel support This section explains how to set the reserve flow rate using the SYS system.

[0159] Shovel support The SYS system may be configured to allow preliminary flow rate settings from a support device 200 that is communicatively connected to the shovel 100.

[0160] The display device 230 provided in the support device 200 may display a preliminary flow rate setting screen similar to those shown in Figures 3A-3C and 4A-4C, under the control of the control device 210. The control device 210 (an example of a setting unit) of the support device 200 may set the preliminary flow rate according to the user's input on the preliminary flow rate setting screen via the input device 240. The control device 210 then transmits a signal requesting the setting of the preliminary flow rate, including the input content (setting content) (hereinafter referred to as the "preliminary flow rate setting request signal"), to the shovel 100 via the communication device 220 (an example of a communication unit). As a result, the shovel 100 (setting unit 302) can set the preliminary flow rate according to the preliminary flow rate setting request signal received from the support device 200 via the communication device T1. Therefore, users such as the operator of the shovel 100, the supervisor of the work site, and the manager of the management center can have the shovel 100 set the preliminary flow rate from outside the shovel 100. This improves user convenience.

[0161] [Transformation / Modification] Although embodiments have been described in detail above, this disclosure is not limited to these specific embodiments, and various modifications and changes are possible within the scope of the gist described in the claims.

[0162] For example, in the embodiment described above, the controller 30 sets the discharge rate of the main pump 14 when operating the auxiliary attachment, but it may also set an arbitrary discharge rate (flow rate characteristic) of the main pump 14 in a similar manner. The controller 30 may, for example, set the upper limit of horsepower in total horsepower control or the maximum flow rate during specific operations, in response to a predetermined input from the operator via the input device 52. Similarly, the support device 200 (control device 210) may set an arbitrary discharge rate (flow rate characteristic) of the main pump 14 in response to a predetermined input received by the input device 240 and transmit a signal including the setting to the shovel 100 via the communication device 220.

[0163] Furthermore, in the embodiments and modified examples described above, the controller 30 sets the discharge rate of the main pump 14, but it may also set (adjust) any parameters related to the operation of the main pump 14 in a similar manner. Similarly, the support device 200 (control device 210) may set any parameters related to the operation of the main pump 14 in response to a predetermined input received by the input device 240, and transmit a signal including the settings to the shovel 100 via the communication device 220.

[0164] Furthermore, in the embodiments and modified / changed examples described above, the controller 30 sets parameters related to the operation of the main pump 14, but it may also set (adjust) parameters related to equipment of the shovel 100 other than the main pump 14. For example, the controller 30 may set (adjust) parameters related to the operation of driven elements (i.e., corresponding actuators) (e.g., operating speed, operating acceleration, etc.). The controller 30 may also set (adjust) control parameters related to the engine 11 and electric motor that drive the main pump 14, or control parameters related to the power supply that supplies power to the electric motor. Similarly, the support device 200 (control device 210) may set (adjust) parameters related to equipment of the shovel 100 other than the main pump 14 in response to a predetermined input received by the input device 240, and transmit a signal including the setting details to the shovel 100 via the communication device 220.

[0165] Furthermore, in the embodiments and variations described above, the shovel 100 was configured in which all of its various driven elements, such as the lower traveling body 1, upper rotating body 3, boom 4, arm 5, and bucket 6, were hydraulically driven. However, some of these elements may be electrically driven. In other words, the configurations disclosed in the embodiments described above may be applied to hybrid shovels, electric shovels, and the like.

[0166] Finally, this application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2019-069473, filed on March 30, 2019, and the entire contents of the Japanese Patent Application are incorporated herein by reference. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0167] 1. Lower running body (driven element) 1L Driving hydraulic motor (hydraulic actuator) 1R Hydraulic Motor (Hydraulic Actuator) 2. Swivel mechanism 2A Swivel Hydraulic Motor (Hydraulic Actuator) 3. Upper rotating body (driven element) 4. Boom (driven element) 5. Arm (driven element) 6 buckets 7. Boom Cylinder (Hydraulic Actuator) 8. Arm Cylinder (Hydraulic Actuator) 9. Bucket cylinder (hydraulic actuator) 10 cabins 11 Engine 13L, 13R Regulator 14L, 14R Main Pump 15 Pilot pump 17 Control valve 18L, 18R Negative Control Aperture 19L, 19R Negative Control Pressure Sensor 26 Operating device 28L, 28R Discharge Pressure Sensor 29 Operating pressure sensor 30 Controller (control device) 50 Display device 52 Input devices 90 Circuit breakers (driven elements, spare attachments) 92. Crusher (driven elements, spare attachments) 100 Shovel 171, 172, 173, 174, 175L, 175R, 176L, 176R, 177 Control valve 178 Neutral cut-off valve

Claims

1. Lower running body and An upper slewing body is mounted on the lower traveling body so as to be rotatable, A boom attached to the upper slewing body, An arm attached to the tip of the boom, A spare attachment is attached to the tip of the aforementioned arm, A hydraulic pump that supplies hydraulic fluid to the aforementioned spare attachment and other hydraulic actuators, An input device that receives input from the user that is different from the input for operating the aforementioned spare attachment and other hydraulic actuators, A control device is provided, The control device, in response to a predetermined input received by the input device, sets a maximum flow rate for the hydraulic pump during a combined operation in which the auxiliary attachment and the other hydraulic actuator are operated simultaneously, and controls the flow rate of the hydraulic pump during the combined operation based on the setting. Shovel.

2. The control device sets the maximum flow rate of the hydraulic pump for both the standalone operation of the auxiliary attachment and the combined operation of the auxiliary attachment. The shovel according to claim 1.

3. The control device sets the maximum flow rate of the hydraulic pump so that the maximum flow rate of the hydraulic pump during combined operation is greater than the maximum flow rate of the hydraulic pump during single operation. The shovel according to claim 2.

4. The control device sets the maximum flow rate of the hydraulic pump so that, when the auxiliary attachment is double-acting, the maximum flow rate of the hydraulic pump during combined operation is greater than the maximum flow rate of the hydraulic pump during single operation, while when the auxiliary attachment is single-acting, the control device sets the maximum flow rate of the hydraulic pump so that the maximum flow rate of the hydraulic pump during combined operation is not greater than the maximum flow rate of the hydraulic pump during single operation. The shovel according to claim 3.

5. The control device sets the maximum flow rate of the hydraulic pump during the combined operation as an additional flow rate compared to the maximum flow rate of the hydraulic pump during the single operation. The shovel according to claim 3.

6. The device further includes a display device that displays the settings related to the maximum flow rate of the hydraulic pump, which have been set by the control device. The display device, when set so that the maximum flow rate of the hydraulic pump during combined operation is greater than the maximum flow rate of the hydraulic pump during single operation, displays a setting that highlights this setting. A shovel according to any one of claims 3 to 5.

7. The display device displays the settings for the maximum flow rate of the hydraulic pump during single operation and the settings for the maximum flow rate of the hydraulic pump during combined operation in a way that allows for comparison. The shovel according to claim 6.

8. The display device displays the settings for the maximum flow rate of the hydraulic pump during the combined operation as an additional flow rate compared to the maximum flow rate of the hydraulic pump during the single operation. The shovel according to claim 6 or 7.

9. The display device displays a multi-stage bar graph representing the additional flow rate, The proportion of flow rate allocated to each stage of the aforementioned bar graph is different. The shovel according to claim 8.

10. The control device sets the maximum flow rate of the hydraulic pump during the combined operation for each type of the auxiliary attachment. A shovel according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. A communication unit that communicates with an excavator having a lower traveling body, an upper rotating body that is rotatably mounted on the lower traveling body, a boom attached to the upper rotating body, an arm attached to the tip of the boom, a spare attachment attached to the tip of the arm, and a hydraulic pump that supplies hydraulic fluid to the spare attachment and other hydraulic actuators. An input unit that receives input from the user that is different from the input for operating the aforementioned spare attachment and other hydraulic actuators, The system includes a setting unit that, in response to a predetermined input received by the input unit, sets the maximum flow rate of the hydraulic pump during a combined operation in which the auxiliary attachment and the other hydraulic actuator are operated simultaneously, The communication unit transmits the settings configured by the setting unit to the shovel, thereby controlling the flow rate of the hydraulic pump based on the settings during the complex operation of the shovel. Information processing device.

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