Charging control system, work machine, and charging control method

Abstract

To efficiently implement charging work.SOLUTION: A charge control system comprises: a storage battery mounted in a work machine; a plurality of connection parts to which a plurality of charging devices provided in the work machine and charging the storage battery is connected respectively; and a controller by which, based on an operation signal generated by at least one manipulation device in a plurality of manipulation devices, a control signal is outputted in such a manner that the plurality of charging devices operates in the same operation mode.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a charging control system, a work machine, and a charging control method.

Background Art

[0002] In the technical field related to work machines, work machines powered by storage batteries, such as battery forklifts or battery excavators, are known. The storage battery is charged by a charging device. Patent Document 1 discloses an example of a charging device.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] If the usability of the charging device is poor, it may be difficult to efficiently perform the charging operation.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to efficiently perform the charging operation.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] According to the present disclosure, there is provided a charging control system including a storage battery mounted on a work machine, a plurality of connection parts provided on the work machine to which each of a plurality of charging devices for charging the storage battery is connected, and a controller that outputs a control signal based on an operation signal generated by at least one of a plurality of operation devices so that each of the plurality of charging devices operates in the same operation mode.

Effects of the Invention

[0007] According to the present disclosure, the charging operation is efficiently performed. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a work machine according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 shows a part of the work machine according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing a charging control system according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating the general operation of the charging control system according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a flowchart showing the charging start process according to an embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a flowchart showing the charging stop process according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing the charging restart process according to an embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows a display device according to an embodiment. [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows a display device according to an embodiment. [Figure 10] Figure 10 shows a display device according to an embodiment. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a block diagram showing a computer system according to an embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] The embodiments of this disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings, but this disclosure is not limited to these embodiments. The components of the embodiments described below can be combined as appropriate. In addition, some components may not be used.

[0010] [Working machinery] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a work machine 1 according to an embodiment. In this embodiment, the work machine 1 is a battery-powered forklift powered by a storage battery.

[0011] The work machine 1 includes a vehicle body 2, a traveling device 3, a work implement 4, a battery pack 5, an interface device 6, and a connection portion 10.

[0012] The vehicle body 2 has a frame 2A, a housing member 2B, and a counterweight 2C. The housing member 2B is supported by the frame 2A. The housing member 2B is disposed at the rear portion of the vehicle body 2. The housing member 2B has a battery chamber in which the battery pack 5 is disposed. The counterweight 2C is disposed below the housing member 2B.

[0013] The traveling device 3 supports the vehicle body 2. The traveling device 3 has front wheels 3F and rear wheels 3R.

[0014] The work implement 4 is supported by the vehicle body 2. The work implement 4 has a mast 4A supported by the vehicle body 2 and forks 4B supported by the mast 4A. The work implement 4 is driven by a work implement cylinder 7. The work implement cylinder 7 includes a tilt cylinder 7A that tilts the mast 4A in the front-rear direction and a lift cylinder 7B that moves the forks 4B in the vertical direction. When the mast 4A is tilted in the front-rear direction by driving the tilt cylinder 7A, the forks 4B tilt in the front-rear direction while being supported by the mast 4A. The forks 4B move in the vertical direction while being supported by the mast 4A by driving the lift cylinder 7B.

[0015] The battery pack 5 includes a storage battery 50. The battery pack 5 is housed in the housing member 2B. The storage battery 50 is a power source of the work machine 1. The storage battery 50 can repeat charging and discharging. As the storage battery 50, a lithium-ion battery is exemplified. In an embodiment, a plurality of battery packs 5 are mounted on the work machine 1. In an embodiment, two battery packs 5 are provided. The battery pack 5 includes a first battery pack 5A and a second battery pack 5B.

[0016] The working machine 1 operates by a driving operation performed by an operator seated on the driver's seat 8. The driver's seat 8 is supported by the frame 2A. The working machine 1 has a plurality of operating members operated by the operator. As an operating member, the steering wheel 9 is exemplified. The operator operates the steering wheel 9 by hand to steer the traveling device 3. Although not shown, as operating members, an accelerator pedal, a brake pedal, a work implement lever, and a forward / reverse lever are exemplified. The operator operates the accelerator pedal with the foot to drive the traveling device 3. The operator operates the brake pedal with the foot to brake the traveling device 3. The operator operates the work implement lever by hand to operate the work implement 4. The operator operates the forward / reverse lever by hand to switch the traveling direction of the traveling device 3 between forward and reverse.

[0017] The interface device 6 is disposed on the vehicle body 2. The interface device 6 is disposed in front of the driver's seat 8. The interface device 6 includes an operating device 6A operated by the operator and a display device 6B that displays display data. As the operating device 6A, a computer keyboard, a push button switch, or a touch panel disposed on the display screen of the display device 6B is exemplified. As the display device 6B, a flat panel display such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display is exemplified.

[0018] The connection part 10 is connected to the charging device 20. The connection part 10 is disposed at the rear part of the housing member 2B. In the embodiment, a plurality of connection parts 10 are provided on the working machine 1. In the embodiment, two connection parts  10 are provided. The connection part 10 includes a first connection part l0A and a second connection part 10B.

[0019] The charging device 20 charges the battery 50. The charging device 20 is located outside the work machine 1. The charging device 20 charges the battery 50 from outside the work machine 1. In one embodiment, the battery 50 can be charged simultaneously by multiple charging devices 20. In another embodiment, the battery 50 can be charged simultaneously by two charging devices 20. Each of the multiple charging devices 20 is connected to each of the multiple connection parts 10. In one embodiment, the charging device 20 includes a first charging device 20A connected to a first connection part 10A and a second charging device 20B connected to a second connection part 10B.

[0020] The charging device 20 is connected to the connection part 10 via a cable 21 and a plug 22. The connection part 10 includes an insertion opening into which the plug 22 is inserted.

[0021] The charging device 20 has an interface device 23. The interface device 23 includes an operating device 23A operated by an operator and a display device 23B that displays display data. The operating device 23A includes a charging start operation unit 231, a charging stop operation unit 232, and an emergency stop operation unit 233. Examples of the charging start operation unit 231 and the charging stop operation unit 232 include toggle switches, rocker switches, or push-button switches. An example of the emergency stop operation unit 233 is a push-button switch. An example of the display device 23B is a flat panel display such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display.

[0022] Figure 2 shows a part of the work machine 1 according to an embodiment. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the work machine 1 has a cover 2D that covers the connection part 10. The first connection part 10A and the second connection part 10B are spaced apart in the vehicle width direction of the work machine 1. A power switch 51 and an operation lamp 52 are located at the rear of the vehicle body 2. The power switch 51 and the operation lamp 52 are located between the first connection part 10A and the second connection part 10B. A momentary switch is exemplified as the power switch 51. The operation lamp 52 operates based on the operating state of the storage battery 50. The operating state of the storage battery 50 includes a charging state, a discharging state, and a standby state. For example, when the storage battery 50 is in a charging state, the operation lamp 52 blinks, and when the storage battery 50 is in a discharging state, the operation lamp 52 lights up.

[0023] [Charging control system] Figure 3 is a block diagram of a charging control system 100 according to an embodiment. The charging control system 100 includes a battery pack 5, a charging device 20, a connection unit 10, a management controller 11, a control circuit 30, a power controller 12, a master controller 13, and an interface device 6.

[0024] The battery pack 5 is mounted on the work machine 1. The battery pack 5 includes a storage battery 50, a voltage sensor 53 for detecting the voltage of the storage battery 50, a temperature sensor 54 for detecting the temperature of the storage battery 50, a heater 55 for heating the storage battery 50, and a battery controller 56.

[0025] The charging device 20 is located outside the work machine 1. The charging device 20 includes an operating device 23A, a display device 23B, an AC / DC conversion module 24 connected to a commercial power supply 27, a contactor 25 positioned between the commercial power supply 27 and the AC / DC conversion module 24, and a charging controller 26.

[0026] The operating device 23A includes a charging start operation unit 231 that causes the charging device 20 to start charging, a charging stop operation unit 232 that causes the charging device 20 to stop charging, and an emergency stop operation unit 233 that causes the charging device 20 to perform an emergency stop.

[0027] The connection part 10 is connected to the charging device 20. The connection part 20 has a locking mechanism for locking the plug 22. The connection part 10 has a lock sensor 14 that detects when the plug 22 of the charging device 20 and the connection part 10 are locked together. The connection part 10 is provided with a power supply line 15 that is energized when the plug 22 of the charging device 20 and the connection part 10 are connected. The power supply line 15 is connected to the power controller 12 via a detection line 16. The power controller 12 can determine whether the plug 22 of the charging device 20 and the connection part 10 are connected based on the detection signal from the lock sensor 14 or the energized state of the power supply line 15 obtained via the detection line 16.

[0028] The control circuit 30 includes a positive electrode line 31 connected to the positive electrode of the charging device 20 via the connection part 10, a negative electrode line 32 connected to the negative electrode of the charging device 20 via the connection part 10, a signal line 33 connecting the management controller 11 and the charging controller 26 via the connection part 10, and a signal line 34 connecting the management controller 11 and the battery controller 56.

[0029] The signal line 33 includes a signal line 33A that connects the management controller 11 to the charge controller 26 of the first charging device 20A, and a signal line 33B that connects the management controller 11 to the charge controller 26 of the second charging device 20B.

[0030] The signal line 34 includes a signal line 34A that connects the management controller 11 to the battery controller 56 of the first battery pack 5A, and a signal line 34B that connects the management controller 11 to the battery controller 56 of the second battery pack 5B.

[0031] The first charging device 20A and the second charging device 20B are connected in parallel to the positive electrode line 31. The first charging device 20A and the second charging device 20B are connected in parallel to the negative electrode line 32. The first charging device 20A and the positive electrode line 31 are connected via the positive electrode line 31A. The second charging device 20B and the positive electrode line 31 are connected via the positive electrode line 31B. The first charging device 20A and the negative electrode line 32 are connected via the negative electrode line 32A. The second charging device 20B and the negative electrode line 32 are connected via the negative electrode line 32B.

[0032] The battery 50 of the first battery pack 5A and the battery 50 of the second battery pack 5B are connected in series. The positive terminal line 31 is connected to the positive terminal of the battery 50 of the first battery pack 5A via the positive terminal line 35. The negative terminal line 32 is connected to the negative terminal of the battery 50 of the second battery pack 5B via the negative terminal line 36. A fuse 35A is placed on the positive terminal line 35.

[0033] The heater 55 of the first battery pack 5A and the heater 55 of the second battery pack 5B are connected in series. The positive line 31 is connected to the positive terminal of the heater 55 of the first battery pack 5A via the positive line 57. The negative line 32 is connected to the negative terminal of the heater 55 of the second battery pack 5B via the negative line 58.

[0034] The positive electrode line 35 is connected to the travel inverter 61 and the implement inverter 62, respectively, via positive electrode lines 37 and 39. The negative electrode line 36 is connected to the travel inverter 61 and the implement inverter 62, respectively, via negative electrode lines 38 and 40. The travel inverter 61 and the implement inverter 62 are connected in parallel to the positive electrode line 39. The travel inverter 61 and the implement inverter 62 are connected in parallel to the negative electrode line 40.

[0035] Furthermore, the control circuit 30 has a charging contactor 41 located on the positive electrode line 31. When the charging contactor 41 is turned ON, the charging device 20 and the storage battery 50 are connected via the positive electrode line 31 and the positive electrode line 35, and the storage battery 50 is charged by the charging device 20. When the charging contactor 41 is turned OFF, the charging device 20 and the storage battery 50 are separated, and the storage battery 50 is not charged.

[0036] In this embodiment, the charging contactor 41 includes a charging contactor 41A that switches between connecting and disconnecting the first charging device 20A and the battery 50, and a charging contactor 41B that switches between connecting and disconnecting the second charging device 20B and the battery 50. The charging contactor 41A is located on the positive electrode line 31A. The charging contactor 41B is located on the positive electrode line 31B. When the charging contactor 41A is turned ON, the first charging device 20A and the battery 50 are connected, and the battery 50 is charged by the first charging device 20A. When the charging contactor 41A is turned OFF, the first charging device 20A and the battery 50 are disconnected, and the battery 50 is not charged by the first charging device 20A. When the charging contactor 41B is turned ON, the second charging device 20B and the battery 50 are connected, and the battery 50 is charged by the second charging device 20B. When the charging contactor 41B is turned OFF, the second charging device 20B and the storage battery 50 are separated, and the storage battery 50 is not charged by the second charging device 20B.

[0037] The management controller 11 is connected to the charging contactor 41 via a control line 71. The control line 71 includes a control line 71A connecting the management controller 11 to the charging contactor 41A, and a control line 71B connecting the management controller 11 to the charging contactor 41B. The management controller 11 controls the charging contactor 41 via the control line 71.

[0038] Furthermore, the control circuit 30 has a discharge contactor 42 located on the positive electrode line 37. When the discharge contactor 42 is turned ON, the battery 50 is connected to the travel inverter 61 and the work machine inverter 62, respectively, via the positive electrode line 37 and the positive electrode line 39, and power is supplied to the travel inverter 61 and the work machine inverter 62, respectively, by discharge from the battery 50. When the discharge contactor 42 is turned OFF, the battery 50 is separated from the travel inverter 61 and the work machine inverter 62, respectively, and power is not supplied from the battery 50 to the travel inverter 61 and the work machine inverter 62, respectively.

[0039] The management controller 11 is connected to the discharge contactor 42 via the control line 72. The management controller 11 controls the discharge contactor 42 via the control line 72.

[0040] Furthermore, the control circuit 30 has a heater contactor 43 located on the positive electrode line 57. When the heater contactor 43 is turned ON, at least one of the charging device 20 and the storage battery 50 is connected to the heater 55 via the positive electrode line 57, and power is supplied to the heater 55. When the heater contactor 43 is turned OFF, the charging device 20 and the storage battery 50 are separated from the heater 55, and no power is supplied to the heater 55.

[0041] The management controller 11 is connected to the heater contactor 43 via the control line 73. The management controller 11 controls the heater contactor 43 via the control line 73.

[0042] In this embodiment, the detection signal from the voltage sensor 53 is transmitted from the battery controller 56 to the management controller 11 via the signal line 34. The detection signal from the temperature sensor 54 is transmitted from the battery controller 56 to the management controller 11 via the signal line 34.

[0043] A recommended voltage range and temperature range for the battery 50 when it is discharging are defined. The management controller 11 controls the discharge contactor 42 to prevent the battery 50 from discharging if the voltage of the battery 50 is not within the recommended temperature range or if the temperature of the battery 50 is not within the recommended temperature range. Specifically, if the management controller 11 determines, based on the detection signal from the voltage sensor 53, that the voltage of the battery 50 is not within the recommended temperature range, or if it determines, based on the detection signal from the temperature sensor 54, that the temperature of the battery 50 is not within the recommended temperature range, it turns the discharge contactor 42 OFF. If the management controller 11 determines that the voltage of the battery 50 is within the recommended temperature range and the temperature of the battery 50 is within the recommended temperature range, it turns the discharge contactor 42 ON.

[0044] Furthermore, a recommended temperature range for the battery 50 when charging is defined. Based on the detection signal from the temperature sensor 54, the management controller 11 controls the heater contactor 43 so that power is supplied to the heater 55 if it determines that the temperature of the battery 50 is below the recommended temperature range. When power is supplied to the heater 55, the battery 50 is heated by the heater 55. As the battery 50 is heated by the heater 55, its temperature rises until it reaches the recommended temperature range.

[0045] Furthermore, the control circuit 30 includes the power supply circuit 17 of the management controller 11 and the self-holding relay 44 of the management controller 11. The positive line 31 is connected to the power supply circuit 17 via the power switch 51 and the positive line 45. The positive line 31 is also connected to the power supply circuit 17 via the self-holding relay 44. The negative line 32 is connected to the power supply circuit 17 via the negative line 46. As described above, the power switch 51 is located at the rear of the vehicle body 2. The operator can operate the power switch 51. When the power switch 51 is turned ON, power is supplied to the power supply circuit 17 and the management controller 11 starts up. When the power switch 51 is turned OFF, the power supply to the power supply circuit 17 is cut off and the management controller 11 stops.

[0046] The management controller 11 is connected to the self-holding relay 44 via the control line 74. The management controller 11 controls the self-holding relay 44 via the control line 74. The management controller 11 controls the self-holding relay 44 so that the power supply to the power circuit 17 is cut off when the capacity of the storage battery 50 falls below a predetermined threshold.

[0047] Furthermore, the control circuit 30 includes a voltage sensor 47A for detecting the voltage of the positive electrode line 31A, a voltage sensor 47B for detecting the voltage of the positive electrode line 31B, a voltage sensor 48 for detecting the voltage of the positive electrode line 39, and a current sensor 49 for detecting the current of the negative electrode line 36.

[0048] The management controller 11 determines whether or not a malfunction has occurred in the charging contactor 41A based on the detection signal from the voltage sensor 47A. When the charging contactor 41A is turned OFF, the voltage detected by the voltage sensor 47A becomes low. If the voltage detected by the voltage sensor 47A remains high despite the management controller 11 outputting a control signal to turn OFF the charging contactor 41A, the management controller 11 can determine that a malfunction has occurred in the charging contactor 41A.

[0049] Similarly, the management controller 11 can determine whether a malfunction has occurred in the charging contactor 41B based on the detection signal from the voltage sensor 47B. The management controller 11 can also determine whether a malfunction has occurred in the discharge contactor 42 based on the detection signal from the voltage sensor 48.

[0050] The travel inverter 61 converts the DC current from the positive line 39 into a three-phase AC current and supplies it to the travel motor 63. The travel motor 63 is driven based on the three-phase AC current supplied from the travel inverter 61. The travel motor 63 operates the travel device 3. In this embodiment, the travel motor 63 generates power to rotate at least one of the front wheels 3F and the rear wheels 3R.

[0051] The implement inverter 62 converts the DC current from the positive line 39 into a three-phase AC current and supplies it to the implement motor 64. The implement motor 64 is driven based on the three-phase AC current supplied from the implement inverter 62. The implement motor 64 operates the implement 4. In this embodiment, the implement motor 64 generates power to drive a hydraulic pump (not shown). The hydraulic fluid discharged from the hydraulic pump is supplied to the implement cylinder 7. The implement 4 operates as a result of the supply of hydraulic fluid to the implement cylinder 7.

[0052] The power controller 12 is connected to the management controller 11 via a communication line 75. The power controller 12 is connected to the master controller 13 via a communication line 76. The power controller 12 is a higher-level controller of the management controller 11. The management controller 11 operates based on control signals from the power controller 12.

[0053] The master controller 13 controls the travel inverter 61 and the work equipment inverter 62 based on the operation of the aforementioned operating members. The master controller 13 controls the travel inverter 61 based on the operation of, for example, the accelerator pedal and the brake pedal. The master controller 13 controls the work equipment inverter 62 based on the operation of the work lever.

[0054] The work machine 1 includes an interface device 6, a key switch 80, and an emergency stop operation unit 81. As described above, the interface device 6 includes an operation device 6A and a display device 6B. The operation device 6A includes a charging start operation unit for starting the charging operation of the charging device 20, and a charging stop operation unit for stopping the charging operation of the charging device 20.

[0055] The key switch 80 is located on at least a part of the vehicle body 2. The key switch 80 is operated, for example, by an operator seated in the driver's seat 8. When the key switch 80 is turned ON, the work machine 1 becomes operational.

[0056] The emergency stop control unit 81 is located on at least a portion of the vehicle body 2. The emergency stop control unit 81 is operated, for example, by an operator seated in the driver's seat 8. A push-button switch is exemplified as the emergency stop control unit 81.

[0057] [Overview of the charging control system's operation] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating the general operation of the charging control system 100 according to this embodiment.

[0058] The operating state of the charging device 20 is changed by operation of the control device 23A or the control device 6A. The management controller 11 outputs control signals to ensure that each of the multiple charging devices 20 (20A, 20B) operates in the same operating mode, based on operation signals generated by at least one of the control devices, which are located on the first charging device 20A, the second charging device 20B, and the work machine 1, the control device 11. The operation of the charging device 20 includes a charging operation to charge the battery 50, a charging stop operation to stop charging the battery 50, and an emergency stop operation to emergency stop charging the battery 50.

[0059] When the first charging device 20A is connected to the first connection part 10A and the second charging device 20B is connected to the second connection part 10B, and the operating device 23A located on the first charging device 20A is operated, but the operating device 6A located on the second charging device 20B and the operating device 6A located on the work machine 1 are not operated, the management controller 11 outputs a control signal based on the operation signal generated by the operating device 23A located on the first charging device 20A so that the first charging device 20A and the second charging device 20B each operate in the same operating state. The operation signal generated by the operating device 23A located on the first charging device 20A is transmitted to the management controller 11 via the signal line 33A. Based on the operation signal generated by the operating device 23A located on the first charging device 20A, the management controller 11 outputs a control signal to control the charging contactor 41A and the charging contactor 41B so that the first charging device 20A and the second charging device 20B each operate in the same operating state.

[0060] When the first charging device 20A is connected to the first connection part 10A and the second charging device 20B is connected to the second connection part 10B, and the operating device 23A located on the second charging device 20B is operated, but the operating device 23A located on the first charging device 20A and the operating device 6A located on the work machine 1 are not operated, the management controller 11 outputs a control signal based on the operation signal generated by the operating device 23A located on the second charging device 20B, so that the first charging device 20A and the second charging device 20B each operate in the same operating state. The operation signal generated by the operating device 23A located on the second charging device 20B is transmitted to the management controller 11 via the signal line 33B. Based on the operation signal generated by the operating device 23A located on the second charging device 20B, the management controller 11 outputs a control signal to control the charging contactor 41A and the charging contactor 41B so that the first charging device 20A and the second charging device 20B each operate in the same operating state.

[0061] When the first charging device 20A is connected to the first connection part 10A and the second charging device 20B is connected to the second connection part 10B, and the operating device 6A located on the work machine 1 is operated, but the operating device 23A located on the first charging device 20A and the operating device 23A located on the second charging device 20B are not operated, the management controller 11 outputs a control signal based on the operation signal generated by the operating device 6A located on the work machine 1 so that the first charging device 20A and the second charging device 20B each operate in the same operating state. The operation signal generated by the operating device 6A located on the work machine 1 is transmitted to the management controller 11 via the power controller 12 and the communication line 75. Based on the operation signal generated by the operating device 6A located on the work machine 1, the management controller 11 outputs a control signal to control the charging contactor 41A and the charging contactor 41B so that the first charging device 20A and the second charging device 20B each operate in the same operating state.

[0062] For example, when the charging start operation unit 231 located in the first charging device 20A is operated, the management controller 11 outputs a control signal so that not only the first charging device 20A but also the second charging device 20B starts charging. In other words, the management controller 11 outputs a control signal so that charging contactor 41A and charging contactor 41B are each turned ON.

[0063] When the charging start operation unit 231 located on the second charging device 20B is operated, the management controller 11 outputs a control signal to cause not only the second charging device 20B but also the first charging device 20A to begin charging. When the charging start operation unit of the operation device 6A located on the work machine 1 is operated, the management controller 11 outputs a control signal to cause both the first charging device 20A and the second charging device 20B to begin charging.

[0064] For example, if the charging stop operation unit 232 located in the first charging device 20A is operated, the management controller 11 outputs a control signal so that not only the first charging device 20A but also the second charging device 20B stops charging. In other words, the management controller 11 outputs a control signal so that charging contactor 41A and charging contactor 41B are each turned OFF.

[0065] When the charging stop operation unit 232 located on the second charging device 20B is operated, the management controller 11 outputs a control signal to stop charging not only the second charging device 20B but also the first charging device 20A. When the charging stop operation unit 232 of the operation device 6A located on the work machine 1 is operated, the management controller 11 outputs a control signal to stop charging both the first charging device 20A and the second charging device 20B.

[0066] For example, if the emergency stop operation unit 233 located on the first charging device 20A is operated, the contactor 25 provided on the first charging device 20A is activated so that the power supply between the first charging device 20A and the commercial power supply 27 is cut off. This causes the first charging device 20A to perform an emergency stop operation. The operation signal generated by the emergency stop operation unit 233 located on the first charging device 20A is transmitted to the management controller 11 via the signal line 33A. Based on the operation signal generated by the emergency stop operation unit 233 located on the first charging device 20A, the management controller 11 outputs a control signal to perform an emergency stop operation on the second charging device 20B. That is, the management controller 11 outputs a control signal so that the charging contactor 41B is turned OFF.

[0067] When the emergency stop operation unit 233 located in the second charging device 20B is operated, the contactor 25 provided in the second charging device 20B is activated to cut off the power supply between the second charging device 20B and the commercial power supply 27. This causes the second charging device 20B to perform an emergency stop operation. The operation signal generated by the emergency stop operation unit 233 located in the second charging device 20B is transmitted to the management controller 11 via the signal line 33B. Based on the operation signal generated by the emergency stop operation unit 233 located in the second charging device 20B, the management controller 11 outputs a control signal to perform an emergency stop operation on the first charging device 20A. That is, the management controller 11 outputs a control signal to turn off the charging contactor 41A.

[0068] When the emergency stop operation unit 81 located on the work machine 1 is operated, the operation signal generated by the emergency stop operation unit 81 is transmitted to the management controller 11 via the power controller 12 and the communication line 75. Based on the operation signal generated by the emergency stop operation unit 81 located on the work machine 1, the management controller 11 outputs a control signal that causes the first charging device 20A and the second charging device 20B to perform an emergency stop operation. In other words, the management controller 11 outputs a control signal that causes the charging contactor 41A and the charging contactor 41B to be turned OFF.

[0069] Furthermore, the management controller 11 displays the operating status of the charging devices 20 (20A, 20B) on the display device 23B located on the first charging device 20A, the display device 23B located on the second charging device 20B, and the display device 6B located on the work machine 1.

[0070] [Charging control method] Next, a charging control method according to an embodiment will be described. Figure 5 is a flowchart showing the charging start process according to an embodiment. Figure 5 shows the charging control method when the state changes from when the plug 22 is not connected to the connection part 10 to when it is connected. In this embodiment, when the plug 22 is connected to the connection part 10, charging of the storage battery 50 by the charging device 20 is started without the operation of the operating device 23A and the operating device 6A.

[0071] When the power switch 51 is turned ON and the plug 22 is connected to the connection part 10 by the operator, the management controller 11 confirms that communication with the charge controller 26 has been established (step SA1).

[0072] After communication is established between the management controller 11 and the charging controller 26, the management controller 11 sets the charging permission flag (step SA2).

[0073] Next, the charging controller 26 activates the locking mechanism provided in the connection part 10 to lock the connection part 10 and the plug 22 (step SA3).

[0074] Next, the management controller 11 outputs a control signal to turn on the charging contactor 41 so that the charging device 20 can begin charging (step SA4).

[0075] After the charging contactor 41 is turned ON, the management controller 11 outputs a control signal to the charging controller 26 so that current is output from the charging device 20. The battery 50 is charged as current is supplied from the charging device 20 to the battery 50.

[0076] Figure 6 is a flowchart illustrating the charging stop process according to the embodiment. Figure 6 shows a charging control method when the charging stop operation unit 232 is operated while the charging device 20 is charging. As described above, charging of the storage battery 50 by the charging device 20 is stopped when at least one of the charging stop operation unit 232 of the operation unit 23A located on the first charging device 20A, the charging stop operation unit 232 of the operation unit 23A located on the second charging device 20B, and the charging stop operation unit of the operation unit 6A located on the work machine 1 is operated.

[0077] For example, when the charging stop operation unit 232 located in the first charging device 20A is operated, the charging stop operation unit 232 generates a stop signal, which is an operation signal to stop charging. The management controller 11 receives the stop signal from the charging stop operation unit 232 (step SB1).

[0078] After receiving the stop signal, the management controller 11 sets the charge disallow flag (step SB2).

[0079] Next, the management controller 11 outputs a control signal to the charging controller 26 so that the output of current from the charging device 20 is stopped. The management controller 11 also outputs a control signal to turn OFF the charging contactor 41 so that the charging device 20 stops charging (step SB3).

[0080] Next, the charging controller 26 activates the locking mechanism provided in the connection part 10 to release the lock between the connection part 10 and the plug 22 (step SB4).

[0081] Figure 7 is a flowchart illustrating the charging restart process according to the embodiment. Figure 7 shows a charging control method when the charging start operation unit 231 is operated while the charging device 20 is in a charging stop operation with the connection unit 10 and the plug 22 connected. As described above, charging of the storage battery 50 by the charging device 20 is started when at least one of the charging start operation unit 231 of the operation unit 23A located in the first charging device 20A, the charging start operation unit 231 of the operation unit 23A located in the second charging device 20B, and the charging start operation unit of the operation unit 6A located in the work machine 1 is operated.

[0082] For example, when the charging start operation unit 231 located in the first charging device 20A is operated, the charging start operation unit 231 generates a start signal, which is an operation signal to start charging. The management controller 11 receives the start signal from the charging start operation unit 231 (step SC1).

[0083] After receiving the start signal, the management controller 11 sets the charge permission flag (step SC2).

[0084] Next, the charging controller 26 activates the locking mechanism provided in the connection part 10 to lock the connection part 10 and the plug 22 (step SC3).

[0085] Next, the management controller 11 outputs a control signal to turn on the charging contactor 41 so that the charging device 20 can begin charging (step SC4).

[0086] After the charging contactor 41 is turned ON, the management controller 11 outputs a control signal to the charging controller 26 so that current is output from the charging device 20. The battery 50 is charged as current is supplied from the charging device 20 to the battery 50.

[0087] [Display device] Figures 8, 9, and 10 show the display device 6B according to the embodiment. Figure 8 shows an example of the display on the display device 6B in a charging standby state when the connection part 10 and the plug 22 are locked and charging has not yet started. Figure 9 shows an example of the display on the display device 6B in a charging state when the connection part 10 and the plug 22 are locked and charging is in progress. Figure 10 shows an example of the display on the display device 6B in a charging standby state when the lock between the connection part 10 and the plug 22 is released. As shown in Figures 8, 9, and 10, the display data shown on the display device 6B changes based on the operating state of the charging device 20. In addition, the same display data as that of the display device 6B is also displayed on the display device 23B.

[0088] [Computer System] Figure 11 is a block diagram showing a computer system 1000 according to an embodiment. The management controller 11, power controller 12, and master controller 13 described above each include the computer system 1000. The computer system 1000 includes a processor 1001 such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a main memory 1002 including non-volatile memory such as ROM (Read Only Memory) and volatile memory such as RAM (Random Access Memory), a storage 1003, and an interface 1004 including input / output circuits. The functions of the management controller 11, power controller 12, and master controller 13 described above are stored in the storage 1003 as computer programs. The processor 1001 reads the computer program from the storage 1003, loads it into the main memory 1002, and executes the above-mentioned processes according to the program. The computer program may be distributed to the computer system 1000 via a network.

[0089] The computer program or computer system 1000 can, in accordance with the above-described embodiment, receive an operation signal generated by at least one of the multiple operating devices 23A, 6A, while each of the multiple charging devices 20 that charge the storage battery 50 mounted on the work machine 1 is connected to the multiple connection parts 10 provided on the work machine 1, and output a control signal based on the operation signal so that each of the multiple charging devices 20 operates in the same operating mode.

[0090] [effect] As described above, the charging control system 100 according to the embodiment includes a storage battery 50 mounted on a work machine 1, a plurality of connection parts 10 provided on the work machine 1 to which each of a plurality of charging devices 20 that charge the storage battery 50 is connected, and a management controller 11 that outputs control signals to each of the plurality of charging devices 20 so that they operate in the same operating mode based on an operation signal generated by at least one of the plurality of operating devices 23A, 6A.

[0091] According to the embodiment, for example, by operating the control device 23A located on the first charging device 20A, the first charging device 20A and the second charging device 20B can be simultaneously activated for charging or simultaneously deactivated for charging. The operator does not need to operate both the control device 23A located on the first charging device 20A and the control device 23A located on the second charging device 20B, thus enabling efficient charging operations.

[0092] The operating device 23A is located in each of the multiple charging devices 20. In this embodiment, the operating device 23A is located in both the first charging device 20A and the second charging device 20B. This allows the operator to simultaneously start charging or stop charging both the first charging device 20A and the second charging device 20B by operating either the operating device 23A located in the first charging device 20A or the operating device 23A located in the second charging device 20B.

[0093] The operating device 6A is located on the work machine 1. In this embodiment, the operating device 6A is located on the vehicle body 2. This allows the operator to operate the operating device 6A while seated, for example, in the driver's seat 8. By operating the operating device 6A alone, the operator can simultaneously start the charging operation of the first charging device 20A and the second charging device 20B, or simultaneously stop the charging operation.

[0094] The operation of the charging device 20 includes charging operation and charging stop operation. The operating device 23A includes a charging start operation unit 231 for starting the charging operation and a charging stop operation unit 232 for starting the charging stop operation. The operating device 6A also has a charging start operation unit and a charging stop operation unit. As a result, the operator can start charging the first charging device 20A and the second charging device 20B simultaneously by operating just one charging start operation unit 231. The operator can also stop charging the first charging device 20A and the second charging device 20B simultaneously by operating just one charging stop operation unit 232.

[0095] The operation of the charging device 20 includes an emergency stop operation. The operating device 23A includes an emergency stop operation unit 233 that initiates the emergency stop operation. The work machine 1 is also equipped with an emergency stop operation unit 81. As a result, the operator can simultaneously initiate an emergency stop operation of both the first charging device 20A and the second charging device 20B by operating at least one of the emergency stop operation units 233 located on the first charging device 20A, the second charging device 20B, and the emergency stop operation unit 81 located on the work machine 1.

[0096] The charging device 20 includes a first charging device 20A and a second charging device 20B. When the emergency stop operation unit 233 of the first charging device 20A is operated, a contactor 25 provided on the first charging device 20A is activated to cut off the power supply between the first charging device 20A and the commercial power supply 27. Based on the operation signal generated by the emergency stop operation unit 233 of the first charging device 20A, the management controller 11 outputs a control signal to cause the second charging device 20B to perform an emergency stop. As a result, the first charging device 20A is emergency stopped using the contactor 25, which is a physical element (hardware), and the second charging device 20B is emergency stopped based on the control signal, which is an intangible element output from the management controller 11.

[0097] The management controller 11 displays the operating mode of the charging device 20 on each of the multiple display devices 23B and 6B. Each of the multiple display devices 23B and 6B simultaneously displays the same operating mode of the charging device 20. This allows the operator to efficiently check the operating mode of the charging device 20.

[0098] The display device 23B is placed in each of the multiple charging devices 20. In this embodiment, the display device 23B is placed in both the first charging device 20A and the second charging device 20B. The display device 23B placed in the first charging device 20A and the display device 23B placed in the second charging device 20B simultaneously display the same display data. This allows the operator to efficiently confirm the operating mode of the charging device 20.

[0099] The display device 6B is located on the work machine 1. In this embodiment, the display device 6B is located on the vehicle body 2. This allows the operator to check the operating status of the charging device 20 while, for example, seated in the driver's seat 8.

[0100] The work machine 1 comprises a work machine 4 and a work machine motor 64 that operates the work machine 4. The work machine motor 64 is driven by power supplied from a storage battery 50. This ensures that a clean environment is maintained at the work site.

[0101] The work machine 1 comprises a travel device 3 and a travel motor 63 that operates the travel device 3. The travel motor 63 is driven based on power supplied from a storage battery 50. This ensures that a clean environment is maintained at the work site.

[0102] [Other embodiments] In the above-described embodiment, the work machine 1 is a battery-powered forklift. The work machine 1 may also be a battery-powered shovel, battery-powered wheel loader, battery-powered dump truck, or battery-powered bulldozer, etc. The components described in the above-described embodiment can be applied to work machines that use a storage battery as a power source. [Explanation of symbols]

[0103] 1…Work machine, 2…Body, 2A…Frame, 2B…Housing component, 2C…Counterweight, 2D…Cover, 3…Traction system, 3F…Front wheels, 3R…Rear wheels, 4…Work machine, 4A…Mast, 4B…Fork, 5…Battery pack, 5A…First battery pack, 5B…Second battery pack, 6…Interface device, 6A…Operating device, 6B…Display device, 7…Work machine cylinder, 7A…Tilt cylinder, 7B…Lift cylinder, 8…Driver's seat, 9…Steering wheel, 10…Connection part, 10A…First connection part, 10B…Second connection part, 11…Management controller, 12…Power supply Controller, 13…Master controller, 14…Lock sensor, 15…Power line, 16…Detection line, 17…Power supply circuit, 20…Charging device, 20A…First charging device, 20B…Second charging device, 21…Cable, 22…Plug, 23…Interface device, 23A…Operating device, 23B…Display device, 24…AC / DC conversion module, 25…Contactor, 26…Charging controller, 27…Commercial power supply, 30…Control circuit, 31…Positive line, 31A…Positive line, 31B…Positive line, 32…Negative line, 32A…Negative line, 32B…Negative line, 33…Signal Line, 33A...Signal line, 33B...Signal line, 34...Signal line, 34A...Signal line, 34B...Signal line, 35...Positive line, 35A...Fuse, 36...Negative line, 37...Positive line, 38...Negative line, 39...Positive line, 40...Negative line, 41...Charging contactor, 41A...Charging contactor, 41B...Charging contactor, 42...Discharge contactor, 43...Heater contactor, 44...Self-holding relay, 45...Positive line, 46...Negative line, 47A...Voltage sensor, 47B...Voltage sensor, 48...Voltage sensor, 49...Current sensor, 50...Battery, 51...Power switch, 52...Operation lamp, 53...Voltage sensor, 54...Temperature sensor, 55...Heater, 56...Battery controller, 57...Positive electrode line, 58...Negative electrode line, 61...Travel inverter, 62...Work equipment inverter, 63...Travel motor, 63...Work equipment motor, 71...Control line, 71A...Control line, 71B...Control line, 72...Control line, 73...Control line, 74...Control line, 75...Communication line, 76...Communication line, 80...Key switch, 81...Emergency stop operation unit, 100...Charging control system, 231...Charging start operation unit, 232...Charging stop operation unit,233…Emergency stop control unit, 1000…Computer system, 1001…Processor, 1002…Main memory, 1003…Storage, 1004…Interface.

Claims

1. The battery installed in the work machine, A plurality of connection points are provided on the work machine, to which each of the plurality of charging devices for charging the storage battery is connected, A controller that outputs control signals to each of the multiple charging devices so that they operate in the same mode, based on an operation signal generated by at least one of the multiple operating devices, The storage battery can be simultaneously charged by the multiple charging devices connected to the multiple connection points, Charging control system.

2. The battery installed in the work machine, A plurality of connection points are provided on the work machine, to which each of the plurality of charging devices for charging the storage battery is connected, The system includes a controller that outputs a control signal based on an operation signal generated by at least one of the operation devices located in each of the multiple charging devices, so that each of the multiple charging devices operates in the same operating mode. Charging control system.

3. The operating device is located in each of the multiple charging devices. The charging control system according to claim 1.

4. The operating device is located on the work machine. A charging control system according to claim 1 or claim 2.

5. The operation of the charging device includes a charging operation and a charging stop operation, The operating device includes a charging start operation unit for initiating the charging operation and a charging stop operation unit for initiating the charging stop operation. A charging control system according to claim 1 or claim 2.

6. The operation of the charging device includes an emergency stop operation. The operating device includes an emergency stop operation unit that performs the emergency stop operation, A charging control system according to claim 1 or claim 2.

7. The charging device includes a first charging device and a second charging device. When the emergency stop operation unit of the first charging device is operated, a contactor provided on the first charging device is activated to cut off the power supply between the first charging device and the commercial power supply. The controller outputs a control signal to perform an emergency stop operation on the second charging device based on the operation signal generated by the emergency stop operation unit of the first charging device. The charging control system according to claim 6.

8. The controller causes the operating mode of the charging device to be displayed on each of the multiple display devices. A charging control system according to claim 1 or claim 2.

9. The display device is placed in each of the plurality of charging devices. The charging control system according to claim 8.

10. The display device is placed on the work machine. The charging control system according to claim 9.

11. A charging control system according to claim 1 or claim 2, A type of machinery used for industrial work.

12. Work equipment and The work machine is equipped with a work machine motor for operating the work machine, The aforementioned work machine motor is driven based on the power supplied from the storage battery. The work machine according to claim 11.

13. Traveling device and The vehicle comprises a travel motor for operating the aforementioned travel device, The aforementioned drive motor is driven based on power supplied from the storage battery. The work machine according to claim 11.

14. With multiple charging devices for charging a battery mounted on the work machine and multiple connection points provided on the work machine connected, the system receives an operation signal generated by at least one of the multiple operating devices. This includes outputting a control signal based on the aforementioned operation signal so that each of the multiple charging devices operates in the same operating mode, The connected state is a state in which the storage battery can be simultaneously charged by the plurality of charging devices, each connected to the plurality of connection points. Charging control method.

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