Working machine

Abstract

(Problem) Provides a work machine that places an output unit including an electric motor at a location further away from the road surface. (Solution) A work machine (100) is equipped with a driving body (200) that can be driven by a driving wheel (203). The driving wheel (203) is mounted on a side frame (2012). The side frame (2012) is connected to the lower side of a center frame (2011). The work machine (100) has an output unit (1) and a transmission mechanism (3). The output unit (1) is supported by the center frame (2011) and outputs the driving force of an electric motor (11). The transmission mechanism (3) transmits the driving force from the output unit (1) to the driving wheel (203) side. The transmission mechanism (3) has a transmission shaft (33). The transmission shaft (33) extends downward as it goes from the output unit (1) side to the driving wheel (203) side.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a working machine. Background Technology

[0002] Conventionally, a slewing construction machine is known, as described in Patent Document 1, which has a lower body equipped with a driving electric motor that rotates the driving wheel on the same axis as the driving wheel. Prior art literature

[0003] Japanese Published Patent Application No. 2014-163190 The problem to be solved

[0004] However, when the drive wheel is rotated by an electric motor, it is necessary to use a reduction gear to increase the driving force (rotational force) of the electric motor. Therefore, compared to the hydraulic drive motors used conventionally, the drive method using an electric motor is larger, increasing the risk of damage from soil, stones, rocks, etc., and also, as the electric motor is closer to the road surface, the possibility of damage to the electric motor is high.

[0005] The present invention aims to provide a work machine that, taking into account the above situation, places an output unit including an electric motor at a location further away from the road surface. means of solving the problem

[0006] To achieve the above objective, a working machine according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises a driving body capable of driving by a driving wheel. The driving wheel is mounted on a side frame. The side frame is connected to the lower side of a center frame. The working machine has an output unit and a transmission mechanism. The output unit is supported by the center frame and outputs the driving force of an electric motor. The transmission mechanism transmits the driving force from the output unit to the driving wheel side. The transmission mechanism has a transmission shaft. The transmission shaft extends downward as it extends from the output unit side to the driving wheel side.

[0007] Further features and advantages of the present invention will be further made clear by the embodiments described below. Effects of the invention

[0008] The present invention can provide a work machine that places an output unit including an electric motor at a location further away from the road surface. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0009] FIG. 1 is a schematic side view showing an example of the configuration of a hydraulic shovel related to the present embodiment. Figure 2 is a block diagram schematically showing the configuration of the hydraulic system of a hydraulic shovel, etc. FIG. 3 is a top view showing a schematic configuration example of a lower driving body. FIG. 4 is a rear view showing an example of the configuration of a driving unit in a first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a rear view showing another configuration example of a driving unit in the first embodiment. FIG. 6A is a schematic diagram showing a first configuration example of an output section in a first embodiment. FIG. 6B is a schematic diagram showing a second configuration example of the output section in the first embodiment. FIG. 6C is a schematic diagram showing a third configuration example of the output section in the first embodiment. FIG. 6D is a schematic diagram showing a fourth configuration example of the output section in the first embodiment. FIG. 6E is a schematic diagram showing a fifth configuration example of the output section in the first embodiment. FIG. 7A is a schematic diagram showing a first configuration example of a driving unit. FIG. 7B is a schematic diagram showing a second configuration example of a driving unit. FIG. 7C is a schematic diagram showing a third configuration example of a driving unit. FIG. 7D is a schematic diagram showing a fourth configuration example of a driving unit. FIG. 7E is a schematic diagram showing a fifth configuration example of a driving unit. FIG. 8 is a rear view showing an example of the configuration of a driving unit in a second embodiment. FIG. 9 is a rear view showing another configuration example of a driving unit in a second embodiment. FIG. 10A is a schematic diagram showing a first configuration example of an output section in a second embodiment. FIG. 10B is a schematic diagram showing a second configuration example of an output unit in a second embodiment. FIG. 10C is a schematic diagram showing a third configuration example of the output unit in the second embodiment. FIG. 10D is a schematic diagram showing a fourth configuration example of an output unit in a second embodiment. FIG. 10E is a schematic diagram showing a fifth configuration example of an output unit in a second embodiment. FIG. 11 is a rear view showing an example of the configuration of a driving unit in a third embodiment. FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a driving unit in the fourth embodiment. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0010] An embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a schematic side view showing an example of the configuration of a hydraulic shovel (100) related to the present embodiment. FIG. 2 is a block diagram schematically showing the configuration of a hydraulic system, etc. of a hydraulic shovel (100). The hydraulic shovel (100) is an example of a “working machine” of the present invention.

[0011] <1. Hydraulic Shovel (100)>

[0012] The hydraulic shovel (100) is equipped with a lower driving body (200), a working device (300), and an upper swivel body (400). In addition, in this embodiment, the upper swivel body (400) (part including the engine room (404) described later) may be collectively referred to as the “body.”

[0013] Also, the direction in the present disclosure is defined as follows. First, the direction in which the lower driving body (200) moves forward and backward is the "forward and backward direction." Among the "forward and backward direction," the direction in which the lower driving body (200) moves forward is the "forward" direction, and the direction in which the lower driving body (200) moves backward is the "rear" direction. Accordingly, when the upper turning body (400) is not turning (turn angle 0°) relative to the lower driving body (200), the forward and backward direction of the lower driving body (200) coincides with the direction from one side of the front side and the other side of the driver's seat (4011) described later, where the operator (pilot, driver) sits on the upper turning body (400).

[0014] In addition, when looking forward from the rear side, the direction from one side to the other on the left and right sides of the lower vehicle body (200) is the “left and right direction.” Among the “left and right directions,” the direction to the left of the lower vehicle body (200) is the “left direction,” and the direction to the right of the lower vehicle body (200) is the “right direction.”

[0015] Additionally, the direction from one side of the lower driving body (200) and the upper turning body (400) to the other is the “up and down direction.” Among the up and down directions, the direction from the lower driving body (200) to the upper turning body (400) is the “upward direction,” and the direction from the upper turning body (400) to the lower driving body (200) is the “downward direction.” Accordingly, when the hydraulic shovel (100) is placed on a horizontal plane with the vertical direction as the normal direction, the up and down direction of the hydraulic shovel (100) coincides with the vertical direction. Additionally, the upward direction coincides with the vertical upward direction, and the downward direction coincides with the vertical downward direction.

[0016] The front-back, left-right, and up-down directions are perpendicular to each other.

[0017] However, the definition of direction described above is used merely for illustrative purposes and is not intended to limit actual positional relationships and directions.

[0018] <1-1. Underbody (200)>

[0019] FIG. 3 is a top view showing a schematic configuration example of a lower vehicle body (200). As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 3, the lower vehicle body (200) comprises a track frame (201), an idler (202), a sprocket (203), an upper roller (204), a lower roller (205), a crawler (206), a retaining member (207), and a driving unit (208).

[0020] The track frame (201) is a member that forms the skeleton of the lower body (200). The track frame (201) has a center frame (2011), a pair of left and right side frames (2012), and a pair of left and right link frames (2013).

[0021] The center frame (2011) is a box body that pivotably supports the upper pivot body (400). An opening (2014) is formed in the center of the ceiling plate of the center frame (2011). A pivot bearing that pivotably connects the upper pivot body (400) is disposed on the edge portion along the outer edge of the opening (2014) of the ceiling plate.

[0022] A pair of left and right side frames (2012) are connected to the lower side of the center frame (2011) in the left and right directions through a link frame (2013). For example, the left side frame (2012) is positioned on the lower side (in other words, on the left and lower side) inclined to the left of the left end of the center frame (2011) through the left link frame (2013). The right side frame (2012) is positioned on the lower side (in other words, on the left and lower side) inclined to the left of the right end of the center frame (2011) through the right link frame (2013).

[0023] Each side frame (2012) extends in the front-rear direction. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 2, each side frame (2012) is equipped with an idler (202), a sprocket (203), an upper roller (204), a lower roller (205), a crawler (206), a retaining member (207), and a driving unit (208).

[0024] The link frame (2013) connects the center frame (2011) and each side frame (2012). The right end of the left link frame (2013) is connected to the left end of the center frame (2011). The left end of the left link frame (2013) is located below the right end and is connected to the left side frame (2012). The left end of the right link frame (2013) is connected to the right end of the center frame (2011). The right end of the right link frame (2013) is located below the left end and is connected to the right side frame (2012).

[0025] The sprocket (203) is a gear-shaped drive wheel mounted on the side frame (2012). In this embodiment, the sprocket (203) is positioned at the rear end of the side frame (2012) and rotates the crawler (206) seamlessly. The lower driving body (200) is driven by the sprocket (203) mounted on each side frame (2012).

[0026] The idler (202) is a floating wheel mounted on the side opposite to the front-rear sprocket (203) in the side frame (2012). In this embodiment, the idler (202) is rotatably connected to the front end of the side frame (2012). The upper roller (204) is rotatably positioned above the side frame (2012). The lower roller (205) is rotatably positioned below the side frame (2012). The idler (202), the upper roller (204), and the lower roller (205) guide the rotational movement of the crawler (206).

[0027] The crawler (206) is an annular endless track spanning an idler (202), a sprocket (203), an upper roller (204), and a lower roller (205). On the inner surface of the crawler (206), a plurality of protrusions arranged in a rotational direction are arranged. These protrusions engage with the teeth of the sprocket (203). Accordingly, the crawler (206) rotates in accordance with the rotation of the sprocket (203).

[0028] The drive unit (208) outputs driving force to the sprocket (203) to rotate the sprocket (203). The power source of the drive unit (208) (e.g., the electric motor (11) described later) is supported at the rear end of the center frame (2011). Additionally, the output end of the drive unit (208) is connected to the sprocket (203) side. The detailed configuration of the drive unit (208) will be explained later.

[0029] The retaining member (207) retains the output end of the driving unit (208) with respect to the side frame (2012). In this embodiment, it is positioned at the rear end of the side frame (2012).

[0030] <1-2. Work Log (300)>

[0031] The working device (300) is equipped with a boom (301), a boom cylinder (3011), an arm (302), an arm cylinder (3021), a bucket (303), and a bucket cylinder (3031). The hydraulic shovel (100) can perform excavation work of soil, etc. by driving the boom (301), the arm (302), and the bucket (303) independently. The base of the boom (301) is supported at the front part of the right side of the upper slewing body (400). The boom (301) can rotate in the up and down direction relative to the upper slewing body (400) by means of a boom cylinder (3011) that operates to freely extend and retract. The base of the arm (302) is connected to the tip of the boom (301). The arm (302) can be rotated up and down relative to the boom (301) by means of an arm cylinder (3021) that operates to be freely extendable. The bucket (303) is supported at the tip of the arm (302). The bucket (303) can be rotated relative to the arm (302) by means of a bucket cylinder (3031) that operates to be freely extendable.

[0032] <1-3. Upper swivel body (400)>

[0033] The upper swivel body (400) is positioned above the lower vehicle body (200) and is capable of swivel relative to the lower vehicle body (200). The upper swivel body (400) has a control unit (401), a body frame (402), a swivel motor (403), an engine room (404), and a bonnet (405).

[0034] A driver's seat (4011) is provided in the control section (401). An operator sits in the driver's seat (4011). Various devices (operation levers, monitors, etc.) are provided around the driver's seat (4011). By the operator sitting in the driver's seat (4011) and operating the operation levers, etc., the hydraulic actuator (4084) and hydraulic motor (4085), etc., described later are driven. Accordingly, the hydraulic shovel (100) can perform driving of the lower driving body (200), excavation work by the working device (300), and turning of the upper turning body (400).

[0035] The airframe (402) is the base of the airframe and is a plate-like structure that extends vertically in the vertical direction. Various devices such as a control unit (401), a swivel motor (403), and an engine room (404) are mounted on the airframe (402).

[0036] The slewing motor (403) rotates the upper slewing body (400) through a slewing bearing. In addition, the slewing motor (403) is a hydraulic motor in this embodiment, but is not limited to this example and may be an electric motor. The engine room (404) is an internal space of the aircraft surrounded by the aircraft frame (402) and the bonnet (405), and is located below the control unit (401).

[0037] Additionally, the upper slewing body (400) further includes a battery unit (406), a motor (407), a hydraulic pump (4081), a reservoir (4082), a control valve (4083), a hydraulic actuator (4084), and a hydraulic motor (4085) (see FIG. 2). The battery unit (406), motor (407), hydraulic pump (4081), reservoir (4082), and control valve (4083) are housed within the engine room (404).

[0038] The battery unit (406) has a rechargeable secondary battery, such as a lithium-ion battery, for example, and supplies power to a component (for example, a motor (407)) that requires power from the hydraulic shovel (100). The motor (407) drives the hydraulic pump (4081).

[0039] The hydraulic pump (4081) supplies working fluid supplied from the reservoir (4082) to the control valve (4083). The reservoir (4082) is a working fluid tank that stores working fluid. The control valve (4083) has a plurality of directional control valves and controls the flow (flow direction and flow rate, etc.) of the working fluid pressurized from the hydraulic pump (4081). For example, the control valve (4083) supplies the working fluid to a hydraulic actuator (4084) and a hydraulic motor (4085), etc. The hydraulic actuator (4084) includes, for example, a boom cylinder (3011), an arm cylinder (3021), and a bucket cylinder (3031), etc. The hydraulic motor (4085) includes a slewing motor (403), etc.

[0040] In addition, the hydraulic shovel (100) is not limited to the examples described above, and may be configured to use hydraulic devices such as a hydraulic actuator (4084) and a hydraulic motor (4085) in combination with an electric actuator. Examples of electric actuators include an electric drive motor, an electric cylinder, and an electric pivot motor.

[0041] <1-4. Drive Unit (208)>

[0042] Next, with reference to FIGS. 3 to 5, an example of the configuration of the driving unit (208) in the first embodiment will be described. FIG. 4 is a rear view showing an example of the configuration of the driving unit (208) in the first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a rear view showing another example of the configuration of the driving unit (208) in the first embodiment. In addition, the structure of the left and right driving units (208) is symmetrical and identical except for this. Therefore, in the description of the configuration of the driving unit (208), an example of the configuration of the left driving unit (208L) will be described, and the description of the configuration of the right driving unit (208) will be omitted. Also, FIGS. 4 and 5 are drawings of the left driving unit (208L) viewed from the rear side toward the front. In FIGS. 4 and 5, the left side corresponds to the outer side in the left-right direction, and the right side corresponds to the inner side in the left-right direction.

[0043] As shown in FIGS. 3 to 5, the drive unit (208) has an output section (1), a drive section (2), and a transmission mechanism (3). The output section (1) generates a driving force (rotational force) to rotate the sprocket (203) and outputs the driving force to the sprocket (203) through the transmission mechanism (3) and the drive section (2). The output section (1) is supported by a center frame (2011). The output section (1) is arranged horizontally at the rear end of the center frame (2011) such that an output shaft section (14) that outputs the driving force faces outward in the left-right direction (in other words, to the left). The drive section (2) is positioned at an inclined downward and inclined rearward direction, which is inclined outward in the left-right direction from the output section (1), and drives the sprocket (203). The transmission mechanism (3) transmits driving force from the output unit (1) to the sprocket (203). For example, the transmission mechanism (3) connects the output unit (1) and the driving unit (2) to transmit the driving force (rotational force) transmitted from the output unit (1) to the driving unit (2). The driving unit (2) rotates the sprocket (203) by the driving force (rotational force) of the output unit (1) transmitted through the transmission mechanism (3).

[0044] Additionally, in FIGS. 3 to 5, the output section (1) is positioned away from the driving section (2) in the left and right directions. However, the examples in FIGS. 3 to 5 do not exclude a configuration in which the left and right position of a part of the output section (1) is the same as the left and right position of a part of the driving section (2).

[0045] Additionally, the output section (1) is positioned so as to be positioned further inward (forward) than the rotation axis (J1) of the sprocket (203) when viewed from the up-down direction (see FIG. 3). The rotation axis (J1) extends in the left-right direction past the rotation center of the sprocket (203). However, this example does not exclude a configuration in which part of the output section (1) overlaps with the rotation axis (J1) when viewed from the up-down direction.

[0046] <1-4-1. Output section (1)>

[0047] The output section (1) has, for example in FIG. 4, an electric motor (11), a brake device (12), an output shaft section (14), an output gear (15), and an output cover (16). The electric motor (11), the brake device (12), the output shaft section (14), and the output gear (15) are arranged in the order described above, from the inner side in the left-right direction to the outer side. The output section (1) outputs the driving force of the electric motor (11).

[0048] The electric motor (11) is supported by the center frame (2011) and is arranged horizontally such that the output shaft (not shown) faces outward in the left-right direction (in other words, to the left). Additionally, the output shaft of the electric motor (11) extends along the motor rotation axis (J2) and is rotatable around the motor rotation axis (J2). The motor rotation axis (J2) is parallel to the left-right direction as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4.

[0049] The brake device (12) is, for example, a parking brake and is positioned on the left and right outer side of the electric motor (11). The brake device (12) suppresses or prevents the transmission of driving force from the electric motor (11) to the output shaft (14) depending on the control of the operator in the control unit (401). That is, when the brake device (12) is activated, the transmission of driving force is suppressed or prevented. On the other hand, when the activation of the brake device (12) is released, the transmission of driving force is neither suppressed nor prevented. Alternatively, the brake device (12) suppresses or prevents the driving (rotation) of the output shaft of the electric motor (11), the output shaft (14), etc., depending on the control of the operator in the control unit (401). Furthermore, the configuration of the brake device (12) is not particularly limited. For example, the brake device (12) may be an electronic clutch type, or a mechanical or hydraulic type.

[0050] The output shaft portion (14) is connected to the output shaft of the electric motor (11) and extends along the motor rotation axis (J2). At least a portion of the output shaft portion (14) protrudes outward in the left and right directions from the end of the brake device (12) on the left and right outer side.

[0051] The output gear (15) is mounted on the output shaft (14). Specifically, the output gear (15) is positioned on the left-right outer side of the output shaft (14) and extends in the diameter direction relative to the motor rotation axis (J2). In FIG. 4, the output gear (15) is a bevel gear and is positioned at the end on the left-right outer side of the output shaft (14). The output gear (15) is engaged with the end on the output side (1) of the transmission mechanism (3).

[0052] In this embodiment, the output shaft (14) extends in a direction parallel to the rotation axis (J1) of the sprocket (203). That is, the motor rotation axis (J2) is parallel to the rotation axis (J1) of the sprocket (203). By doing so, the output section (1) can output driving force toward the left and right directions (in other words, the left and right direction of the sprocket (203)). Accordingly, the distance between the output end of the output shaft (14) and the left and right direction of the sprocket (203) can be made shorter. Therefore, the output section (1) can be kept away from the road surface while suppressing the increase in the length of the driving force transmission path (e.g., transmission shaft (33)) from the output section (1) to the sprocket (203).

[0053] The output shaft (14) and the output gear (15) can rotate around the motor rotation axis (J2) together with the output shaft of the electric motor (11). The output shaft (14) outputs the driving force of the electric motor (11) to the transmission mechanism (3) through the output gear (15).

[0054] The output cover (16) is positioned at the left-right outer end of the brake device (23) and covers the output shaft (14) and output gear (15), etc. An opening (161) is formed in the center of the left-right outer end of the output cover (16). The output gear (15) is engaged with the transmission mechanism (3) through the opening (161). Additionally, the example of FIG. 4 does not exclude a configuration in which at least a portion of the output gear (15) is positioned outside the output cover (16) through the opening (161), nor does it exclude a configuration in which the left-right outer end of the output shaft (14) is positioned outside the output cover (16) through the opening (161).

[0055] Additionally, the edge portion of the output cover (16) that follows the outer edge of the opening (161) is connected to and covered by the end portion of the transmission cover (34) of the transmission mechanism (3) in the left and right directions. By the output cover (16) and the transmission cover (34), it is possible to prevent dust (especially sand, dust, splashed water, mud, etc. generated during the movement and turning of the lower vehicle body) from adhering to or entering the output shaft portion (14) and output gear (15), etc.

[0056] <1-4-2. Driving unit (2)>

[0057] The drive unit (2) has an input shaft unit (21), a manual gear (22), a reduction gear (24), a drive shaft unit (25), a drive bearing (26), and an input cover (27). The input cover (27), manual gear (22), input shaft unit (21), reduction gear (24), and drive shaft unit (25) are arranged in this order from the inner side in the left-right direction toward the outer side.

[0058] The input shaft portion (21) extends parallel to the rotation axis (J1) and extends along the rotation axis (J1) in FIG. 4. In FIG. 4, the left and right outer end of the input shaft portion (21) is connected to an input shaft that extends inward in the left and right direction along the rotation axis (J1) of the reduction gear (24). Alternatively, the input shaft portion (21) may be the input shaft of the reduction gear (24).

[0059] The manual gear (22) is mounted on the input shaft portion (21). The manual gear (22) is positioned on the left-right inner side of the input shaft portion (21) in the left-right direction, relative to the reduction gear (24). The manual gear (22) extends in a diameter direction relative to an axis (e.g., rotation axis (J1)) that extends in the left-right direction through the center of the input shaft portion (21). In FIG. 4, the manual gear (22) is a bevel gear and is positioned at the end of the left-right inner side of the input shaft portion (21). The manual gear (22) is engaged with the end of the driving portion (2) of the transmission mechanism (3). The manual gear (22) can rotate around an axis (e.g., rotation axis (J1)) that extends in the left-right direction through the center of the input shaft portion (21), together with the input shaft of the input shaft portion (21) and the reduction gear (24). Accordingly, the driving force output from the transmission mechanism (3) to the manual gear (22) is input to the reduction gear (24).

[0060] The reduction gear (24) increases the driving force transmitted from the transmission mechanism (3) by reducing it by a predetermined reduction ratio and outputs it to the sprocket (203). In FIG. 4, the reduction gear (24) is positioned between the manual gear (22) and the drive shaft part (25) (and the sprocket (203)), and increases the driving force input to the input shaft by reducing it by a predetermined reduction ratio and outputs it to the drive shaft part (25). In this way, the drive part (2) can efficiently output the driving force increased by the reduction gear (24) to the adjacent sprocket (203) by the arrangement of the reduction gear (24).

[0061] The drive shaft portion (25) extends along the rotation axis (J1). The sprocket (203) extends outward in the radial direction with respect to the rotation axis (J1) from the outer surface of the drive shaft portion (25). The left and right inner end portion of the drive shaft portion (25) is connected to an output shaft that extends outward in the left and right direction along the rotation axis (J1) of the reduction gear (24). Alternatively, the drive shaft portion (25) may be the output shaft of the reduction gear (24).

[0062] The drive shaft (25) can rotate around the rotation axis (J1) together with the output shaft of the reduction gear (24) and the sprocket (203). Accordingly, the driving force output from the transmission mechanism (3) is output to the sprocket (203). In short, the sprocket (203) rotates by the driving force and causes the crawler (206) to rotate seamlessly.

[0063] The drive shaft portion (25) is rotatably held by the retaining member (207) through the drive bearing (26). For example, the drive bearing (26) is a ball bearing in this embodiment. The inner ring of the drive bearing (26) is connected to the drive shaft portion (25). Additionally, an opening is formed at the outer end of the retaining member (207) in the left and right directions. A bearing retaining portion that holds the outer ring of the drive bearing (26) is disposed at the edge of the opening. Accordingly, the outer ring of the drive bearing (26) is fixed to the retaining member (207).

[0064] The input cover (27) is a plate-shaped member that widens in a direction intersecting the left and right directions and is positioned further outward in the left and right directions (to the right in FIG. 4) than the manual gear (22). An opening (271) is formed in the input cover (27). The manual gear (22) is engaged with the transmission mechanism (3) through the opening (271). Additionally, the example of FIG. 4 does not exclude a configuration in which at least a portion of the manual gear (22) is positioned outside the input cover (27) through the opening (271), nor does it exclude a configuration in which the end of the input shaft portion (21) on the left and right side is positioned outside the input cover (27) through the opening (271).

[0065] Additionally, the outer edge portion of the input cover (27) is connected to the inner surface of the retaining member (207) and the rear end surface of the side frame (2012). The edge portion following the outer edge of the opening (271) of the input cover (27) is connected to and covered by the left-right outer end of the transmission cover (34) of the transmission mechanism (3). By these, the input cover (27), together with the retaining member (207) and the transmission cover (34), covers the left-right inner portion of the driving unit (2) excluding the input cover (27). For example, the input shaft portion (21), manual gear (22), reduction gear (24), and driving bearing (26), etc., are covered. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent dust (especially sand, dust, splashed water, mud, etc. generated during the forward and backward movement or turning of the lower driving body) from adhering to the above-described portion or entering the interior thereof.

[0066] <1-4-3. Delivery Mechanism (3)>

[0067] The transmission mechanism (3) has a transmission shaft portion (33), a first transmission gear (31), a second transmission gear (32), and a transmission cover (34). The transmission shaft portion (33) extends along a rotation axis (J3). As the rotation axis (J3) is directed outward in the left and right directions, it extends downward in an inclined direction and backward in an inclined direction. The first transmission gear (31) and the second transmission gear (32) are each bevel gears and extend in the diameter direction relative to the rotation axis (J3).

[0068] The first transmission gear (31) is mounted on the output section (1) side of the transmission shaft (33). The second transmission gear (32) is mounted on the drive section (2) side of the transmission shaft (33). At this time, for example, the first transmission gear (31) is engaged with the output section (1), and the second transmission gear (32) is engaged with the sprocket (203) side. Accordingly, the transmission mechanism (3) has a simple configuration and can transmit the driving force of the electric motor (11) to the sprocket (203) side.

[0069] The first transmission gear (31) meshes with the output gear (15) of the output section (1). The second transmission gear (32) meshes with the manual gear (22) of the drive section (2). The transmission shaft section (33), the first transmission gear (31), and the second transmission gear (32) can rotate around the rotation axis (J3). In this way, the driving force of the electric motor (11) can be transmitted to the sprocket (203) side by means of the meshing structure of the first transmission gear (31) and the output gear (15) and the meshing structure of the second transmission gear (32) and the manual gear (22).

[0070] The transmission cover (34) is a tubular member that accommodates the first transmission gear (31), the second transmission gear (32), and the transmission shaft (33), and extends along the transmission shaft (33). As described above, the end of the transmission cover (34) on the output (1) side is connected to the edge of the output cover (16) along the outer edge of the opening (161). The end of the transmission cover (34) on the driving (2) side is connected to the edge of the input cover (27) along the outer circumference edge of the opening (271). Accordingly, it is possible to prevent dust (especially sand, splashed water, and mud generated during the forward and backward movement and turning of the lower vehicle body (200)) from adhering to or entering the members (e.g., the transmission shaft (33), the first transmission gear (31), and the second transmission gear (32)) inside the transmission cover (34).

[0071] The transmission shaft (33) extends from the output shaft (14) side and transmits the driving force output from the output (1) to the sprocket (203) side. The transmission shaft (33) extends downward as it goes from the output shaft (14) side to the sprocket (203) side, or in other words, extends downward in an outward direction and at an angle.

[0072] In this way, the output section (1) is positioned inward and upward from the sprocket (203) in the left and right directions. Accordingly, the hydraulic shovel (100) can position the output section (1), which includes the electric motor (11), further away from the road surface on which the lower vehicle (200) travels. Accordingly, the hydraulic shovel (100) can suppress or prevent the output section (1) (especially the electric motor (11)) from coming into contact with soil, rocks, etc. exposed on the road surface, even when traveling on a rough road surface.

[0073] Additionally, the hydraulic shovel (100) can position the output unit (1), which includes an electric motor (11), away from the sprocket (203) mounted on the side frame (2012) in the left and right directions. Thus, the hydraulic shovel (100) can improve the degree of freedom in the design of the arrangement of both while preventing interference between the output unit (1) (especially the electric motor (11)) and the member (sprocket (203), crawler (206), etc.) mounted on the side frame (2012).

[0074] Additionally, the hydraulic shovel (100) can prevent soil, rocks, mud, etc. that are kicked up from the road surface by the sprocket (203) and crawler (206) from coming into contact with the output part (1) while driving.

[0075] Preferably, the transmission shaft (33) extends further outward in the front-rear direction (in other words, rearward) as it extends from the output shaft (14) side toward the sprocket (203) side (see FIG. 3). In this way, the output section (1) is positioned inward in the front-rear direction relative to the sprocket (203). Thus, the output section (1) supported by the center frame (2011) can be positioned compactly. Additionally, the output section (1) can be positioned further inward in the front-rear direction relative to the sprocket (203). Thus, the hydraulic shovel (100) can further suppress or prevent soil, rocks, mud, etc. that are kicked up from the road surface by the sprocket (203) and crawler (206) during driving from coming into contact with the output section (1). However, this example does not exclude a configuration in which the transmission shaft (33) does not extend outward in the forward and backward direction as it moves from the output shaft (14) side toward the sprocket (203) side.

[0076] <1-4-4. Other configuration examples of the drive unit (208)>

[0077] Next, with reference to FIG. 5, another configuration example of the drive unit (208) is described. The drive unit (208) has an output section (1), a drive section (2), and a transmission mechanism (3). In FIG. 5, as in FIG. 4, the output section (1) is arranged horizontally such that the output shaft section (14) which outputs the driving force is oriented outward in the left-right direction (in other words, to the left) at the rear end of the center frame (2011).

[0078] The output section (1) has an electric motor (11), a brake device (12), a reduction gear (13), an output shaft section (14), an output gear (15), and an output cover (16). The electric motor (11), the brake device (12), the reduction gear (13), the output shaft section (14), and the output gear (15) are arranged in the order described above, from the inner side in the left-right direction toward the outer side.

[0079] The electric motor (11) outputs driving force (rotational force) to the reduction gear (13) (input shaft). The brake device (12) is, for example, a parking brake and is positioned between the electric motor (11) and the reduction gear (13).

[0080] The brake device (12) suppresses or prevents the transmission of driving force from the electric motor (11) to the input shaft of the reduction gear (13) depending on the control of the operator in the control unit (401). Alternatively, the brake device (12) suppresses or prevents the driving (rotation) of the output shaft of the electric motor (11), the input shaft of the reduction gear (13), etc. depending on the control of the operator in the control unit (401).

[0081] The reduction gear (13) is positioned on the left and right outer side of the brake device (12). The reduction gear (13) increases the driving force input to the input shaft by reduction according to a predetermined reduction ratio and outputs it to the output gear (15) through the output shaft (14). In short, the output unit (1) increases the driving force output from the electric motor (11) by reduction according to a predetermined reduction ratio and outputs it to the transmission mechanism (3). Accordingly, the output unit (1) can efficiently output and increase the driving force of the electric motor (11) to the adjacent reduction gear (13) by the arrangement of the reduction gear (13). In addition, the output unit (1) can output a larger driving force to the transmission mechanism (3).

[0082] The output shaft portion (14) is connected to the output shaft of the reduction gear (13) and extends along the motor rotation axis (J2). At least a portion of the output shaft portion (14) protrudes outward in the left and right directions from the end of the reduction gear (13) on the left and right outer side. In addition, not limited to this example, the output shaft portion (14) may be the same member as the output shaft of the reduction gear (13).

[0083] The output cover (16) is positioned at the outer end of the left and right direction of the reduction gear (13) and covers the output shaft (14) and output gear (15), etc.

[0084] Next, the drive unit (2) has an input shaft (21), a manual gear (22), a drive bearing (26), and an input cover (27).

[0085] The input shaft (21) extends along the rotation axis (J1) and is connected to the sprocket (203). The rotation axis (J1) extends in the left and right directions past the rotation center of the sprocket (203).

[0086] The manual gear (22) is positioned on the left-right inner side of the input shaft (21), on the left-right inner side of the sprocket (203) and the drive bearing (26). In FIG. 5, the manual gear (22) is positioned as a bevel gear at the end of the left-right inner side of the input shaft (21).

[0087] The input shaft (21) can rotate around the rotation axis (J1) together with the manual gear (22) and the sprocket (203). Accordingly, the driving force output from the transmission mechanism (3) to the manual gear (22) is transmitted to the sprocket (203). That is, the sprocket (203) rotates by the driving force and causes the crawler (206) to rotate seamlessly.

[0088] Additionally, the input shaft portion (21) is rotatably held by a retaining member (207) through a driving bearing (26). For example, the driving bearing (26) is a ball bearing in this embodiment. The inner ring of the driving bearing (26) is connected to the input shaft portion (21). The outer ring of the driving bearing (26) is fixed to the retaining member (207).

[0089] Additionally, the configuration of the output unit (1) and the drive unit (2) is not limited to the examples of FIGS. 4 and 5. For example, the output unit (1) in the first embodiment may have at least an electric motor (11), an output shaft (14), an output gear (15), and an output cover (16). Additionally, the drive unit (2) in the first embodiment may have at least an input shaft (21), a manual gear (22), a drive bearing (26), and an input cover (27). In addition, the brake device (12, 23) and the reduction gear (13, 24) may each be placed in at least one of the output unit (1) and the drive unit (2). However, this example does not exclude a configuration in which the brake device (12, 23) and the reduction gear (13, 24) are not placed in either the output unit (1) or the drive unit (2).

[0090] <1-4-5. First to fifth configuration examples of output section (1)>

[0091] FIG. 6A is a schematic diagram showing a first configuration example of the output unit (1) in the first embodiment. FIG. 6B is a schematic diagram showing a second configuration example of the output unit (1) in the first embodiment. FIG. 6C is a schematic diagram showing a third configuration example of the output unit (1) in the first embodiment. FIG. 6D is a schematic diagram showing a fourth configuration example of the output unit (1) in the first embodiment. FIG. 6E is a schematic diagram showing a fifth configuration example of the output unit (1) in the first embodiment. FIG. 6A to 6E are drawings of the output unit (1) of the left driving unit (208L) viewed from the rear side toward the front. Also, in FIG. 6A to 6E, the left side corresponds to the outer side in the left-right direction, and the right side corresponds to the inner side in the left-right direction.

[0092] (First configuration example of output section (1))

[0093] The output section (1) of the first configuration example shown in FIG. 6A has the same configuration as the output section (1) of FIG. 5 and has an electric motor (11), a brake device (12), a reduction gear (13), an output shaft section (14), an output gear (15), and an output cover (16). The electric motor (11), the brake device (12), the reduction gear (13), the output shaft section (14), and the output gear (15) are arranged in the order described above, facing from the inner side in the left-right direction toward the outer side.

[0094] Additionally, the brake device (12) may be positioned on the left and right inner side of the reduction gear (13).

[0095] (Example of the second configuration of the output unit (1))

[0096] The output section (1) of the second configuration example shown in FIG. 6B has an electric motor (11), a brake device (12), a reduction gear (13), an output shaft section (14), an output gear (15), and an output cover (16). The electric motor (11), reduction gear (13), brake device (12), output shaft section (14), and output gear (15) are arranged in this order from the inner side in the left-right direction toward the outer side.

[0097] The electric motor (11) outputs driving force (rotational force) to the reduction gear (13) (input shaft). The reduction gear (13) is positioned on the left and right outer side of the electric motor (11) and increases the driving force input to the input shaft by reduction according to a predetermined reduction ratio and outputs it to the output gear (15) through the output shaft (14).

[0098] The brake device (12) suppresses or prevents the transmission of driving force from the output shaft of the reduction gear (13) to the output shaft (14) depending on the control of the operator in the control unit (401). Alternatively, the brake device (12) suppresses or prevents the driving (rotation) of the output shaft of the reduction gear (13), the output shaft (14), etc. depending on the control of the operator in the control unit (401).

[0099] The output shaft portion (14) is connected to the output shaft of the reduction gear (13) and extends along the motor rotation axis (J2). At least a portion of the output shaft portion (14) protrudes outward in the left and right directions from the end of the brake device (12) on the left and right outer side. Additionally, in the output portion (1) of the second configuration example, the output shaft portion (14) may be a different member from the output shaft of the reduction gear (13), or it may be the same member as the output shaft of the reduction gear (13).

[0100] The output cover (16) is positioned at the outer end of the left and right side of the brake device (12) and covers the output shaft (14) and output gear (15), etc.

[0101] (Third configuration example of output section (1))

[0102] The output section (1) of the third configuration example shown in FIG. 6C has the same configuration as the output section (1) of FIG. 4 and has an electric motor (11), a brake device (12), an output shaft section (14), an output gear (15), and an output cover (16). The electric motor (11), the brake device (12), the output shaft section (14), and the output gear (15) are arranged in the order described above, from the inner side in the left-right direction toward the outer side.

[0103] (Fourth configuration example of output section (1))

[0104] The output section (1) of the fourth configuration example shown in FIG. 6D has an electric motor (11), a reduction gear (13), an output shaft section (14), an output gear (15), and an output cover (16). The electric motor (11), the reduction gear (13), the output shaft section (14), and the output gear (15) are arranged in the order described above, from the inner side in the left-right direction toward the outer side.

[0105] The electric motor (11) outputs driving force (rotational force) to the reduction gear (13) (input shaft). The reduction gear (13) is positioned on the left and right outer side of the electric motor (11) and increases the driving force input to the input shaft by reduction according to a predetermined reduction ratio and outputs it to the output gear (15) through the output shaft (14).

[0106] The output shaft portion (14) is connected to the output shaft of the reduction gear (13) and extends along the motor rotation axis (J2). At least a portion of the output shaft portion (14) protrudes outward in the left and right directions from the end of the reduction gear (13) on the left and right outer side. In addition, not limited to this example, the output shaft portion (14) may be the same member as the output shaft of the reduction gear (13).

[0107] The output cover (16) is positioned at the outer end of the left and right direction of the reduction gear (13) and covers the output shaft (14) and output gear (15), etc.

[0108] (Fifth configuration example of output section (1))

[0109] The output section (1) of the fifth configuration example shown in FIG. 6E has an electric motor (11), an output shaft section (14), an output gear (15), and an output cover (16). The electric motor (11), the output shaft section (14), and the output gear (15) are arranged in the order described above, from the inner side in the left-right direction toward the outer side.

[0110] The electric motor (11) outputs driving force (rotational force) to the output gear (15) through the output shaft portion (14). The output shaft portion (14) is connected to the output shaft of the electric motor (11) and extends along the motor rotation axis (J2). In addition, not limited to this example, the output shaft portion (14) may be the same member as the output shaft of the electric motor (11). The output cover (16) is positioned at the outer end of the left and right direction of the electric motor (11) and covers the output shaft portion (14) and the output gear (15), etc.

[0111] <1-4-6. First to fifth configuration examples of the driving unit (2)>

[0112] FIG. 7A is a schematic diagram showing a first configuration example of the drive unit (2). FIG. 7B is a schematic diagram showing a second configuration example of the drive unit (2). FIG. 7C is a schematic diagram showing a third configuration example of the drive unit (2). FIG. 7D is a schematic diagram showing a fourth configuration example of the drive unit (2). FIG. 7E is a schematic diagram showing a fifth configuration example of the drive unit (2). FIG. 7A to FIG. 7E are drawings of the drive unit (2) of the left drive unit (208L) viewed from the rear side toward the front. Also, in FIG. 7A to FIG. 7E, the left side corresponds to the outer side in the left-right direction, and the right side corresponds to the inner side in the left-right direction.

[0113] (First configuration example of the driving unit (2))

[0114] The driving unit (2) of the first configuration example shown in FIG. 7A has an input shaft (21), a manual gear (22), a brake device (23), a reduction gear (24), a driving shaft (25), a driving bearing (26), and an input cover (27). The input cover (27), manual gear (22), input shaft (21), brake device (23), reduction gear (24) and driving shaft (25) are arranged in this order from the inner side in the left-right direction toward the outer side.

[0115] The input shaft portion (21) extends parallel to the rotation axis (J1), for example, along the rotation axis (J1). The left and right outer end of the input shaft portion (21) is connected to an input shaft that extends inward in the left and right direction along the rotation axis (J1) of the reduction gear (24). Alternatively, the input shaft portion (21) may be the input shaft of the reduction gear (24).

[0116] The manual gear (22) is positioned on the left-right side of the input shaft (21) and is engaged with the end of the driving part (2) of the transmission mechanism (3). The manual gear (22) can rotate around an axis (e.g., rotation axis (J1)) that extends in the left-right direction through the center of the input shaft (21), together with the input shaft of the input shaft (21) and the input shaft of the reduction gear (24).

[0117] The brake device (23) is, for example, a parking brake and is positioned between the manual gear (22) and the reduction gear (24). The brake device (23) suppresses or prevents the transmission of driving force from the transmission mechanism (3) to the sprocket (203) depending on the control of the operator in the control unit (401). Alternatively, the brake device (23) suppresses or prevents the driving (rotation) of the input shaft (21), the output shaft of the reduction gear (24), etc., depending on the control of the operator in the control unit (401). Furthermore, the configuration of the brake device (23) is not particularly limited. For example, the brake device (23) may be an electronic clutch type, or a mechanical or hydraulic type.

[0118] The reduction gear (24) is positioned between the brake device (23) and the drive shaft (25) (and the sprocket (203)), and increases the driving force input to the input shaft by reducing it by a predetermined reduction ratio and outputs it to the drive shaft (25).

[0119] The drive shaft portion (25) extends along the rotation axis (J1). The left and right inner end portion of the drive shaft portion (25) is connected to an output shaft that extends outwardly in the left and right directions along the rotation axis (J1) of the reduction gear (24). Alternatively, the drive shaft portion (25) may be the same member as the output shaft of the reduction gear (24). The drive shaft portion (25) can rotate around the rotation axis (J1) together with the output shaft of the reduction gear (24) and the sprocket (203).

[0120] The drive bearing (26) is positioned between the reduction gear (24) and the sprocket (203). The drive shaft portion (25) is rotatably held by a retaining member (207) through the drive bearing (26). For example, the drive bearing (26) is a ball bearing in this embodiment. The inner ring of the drive bearing (26) is connected to the drive shaft portion (25).

[0121] Additionally, the brake device (23) may be placed between the reduction gear (24) and the drive bearing (26).

[0122] (Second configuration example of the driving unit (2))

[0123] The drive unit (2) of the second configuration example shown in FIG. 7B has an input shaft (21), a manual gear (22), a brake device (23), a reduction gear (24), a drive shaft (25), a drive bearing (26), and an input cover (27). The input cover (27), manual gear (22), input shaft (21), reduction gear (24), brake device (23), and drive shaft (25) are arranged in this order from the inner side in the left-right direction toward the outer side.

[0124] The reduction gear (24) increases the driving force input to the input shaft through the input shaft (21) by reducing it by a predetermined reduction ratio and outputs it to the driving shaft (25).

[0125] The brake device (23) is, for example, a parking brake and is positioned between the reduction gear (24) and the drive shaft (25) (and sprocket (203)). The brake device (23) suppresses or prevents the transmission of driving force from the reduction gear (24) to the drive shaft (25) (and sprocket (203)) depending on the control of the operator in the control unit (401). Alternatively, the brake device (23) suppresses or prevents the driving (rotation) of the output shaft of the reduction gear (24), the drive shaft (25), etc., depending on the control of the operator in the control unit (401).

[0126] The drive shaft portion (25) extends along the rotation axis (J1). The left and right inner end portion of the drive shaft portion (25) is connected to an output shaft that extends outwardly in the left and right directions along the rotation axis (J1) of the reduction gear (24). Alternatively, the drive shaft portion (25) may be the same member as the output shaft of the reduction gear (24). The drive shaft portion (25) can rotate around the rotation axis (J1) together with the output shaft of the reduction gear (24) and the sprocket (203).

[0127] The drive bearing (26) is positioned between the reduction gear (24) and the sprocket (203). The drive shaft portion (25) is rotatably held by a retaining member (207) through the drive bearing (26). For example, the drive bearing (26) is a ball bearing in this embodiment. The inner ring of the drive bearing (26) is connected to the drive shaft portion (25).

[0128] (Third configuration example of the driving unit (2))

[0129] The drive unit (2) of the third configuration example shown in FIG. 7C has the same configuration as the drive unit (2) of FIG. 4 and has an input shaft unit (21), a manual gear (22), a reduction gear (24), a drive shaft unit (25), a drive bearing (26), and an input cover (27). The input cover (27), manual gear (22), input shaft unit (21), reduction gear (24), and drive shaft unit (25) are arranged in this order from the inner side in the left-right direction toward the outer side.

[0130] (Fourth configuration example of the driving unit (2))

[0131] The driving unit (2) of the fourth configuration example shown in FIG. 7D has an input shaft (21), a manual gear (22), a brake device (23), a driving bearing (26), and an input cover (27). The manual gear (22), the input shaft (21), the reduction gear (24), and the driving shaft (25) are arranged in this order from the inner side in the left-right direction toward the outer side.

[0132] The input shaft portion (21) extends along the rotation axis (J1) and is connected to the sprocket (203). The rotation axis (J1) extends in the left and right directions past the rotation center of the sprocket (203). The input shaft portion (21) is rotatable around the rotation axis (J1) together with the manual gear (22) and the sprocket (203). Additionally, the input shaft portion (21) is rotatably held by a retaining member (207) through a drive bearing (26). For example, the drive bearing (26) is a ball bearing in this embodiment. The inner ring of the drive bearing (26) is connected to the input shaft portion (21).

[0133] The brake device (23) is, for example, a parking brake and is positioned between the manual gear (22) and the sprocket (203). The brake device (23) suppresses or prevents the transmission of driving force from the input shaft (21) to the sprocket (203) depending on the control of the operator in the control unit (401). Alternatively, the brake device (23) suppresses or prevents the driving (rotation) of the input shaft (21), etc. depending on the control of the operator in the control unit (401).

[0134] (Fifth configuration example of the driving unit (2))

[0135] The driving unit (2) of the fifth configuration example shown in FIG. 7E has the same configuration as the driving unit (2) of FIG. 5 and has an input shaft (21), a manual gear (22), a driving bearing (26), and an input cover (27). The input cover (27), manual gear (22), input shaft (21), and sprocket (203) are arranged in this order from the inner side in the left-right direction toward the outer side.

[0136] <1-4-7. Arrangement of brake device (12, 23)>

[0137] Preferably, the brake device (12, 23) is positioned between the electric motor (11) and the reduction gear (13, 24) in the path of the driving force. In this case, the brake device (12, 23) inhibits or prevents the transmission of the driving force from the electric motor (11) to the reduction gear (13, 24).

[0138] For example, in FIG. 4, in the drive unit (208), the brake device (12) is positioned between the electric motor (11) and the reduction gear (24) in the drive force transmission path.

[0139] Additionally, in FIG. 5 and FIG. 6A, in the output section (1), the brake device (12) is positioned between the electric motor (11) and the reduction gear (13) in the driving force transmission path. In short, preferably in the output section (1) having the reduction gear (13), the brake device (12) is positioned between the electric motor (11) and the reduction gear (13) in the driving force transmission path (in other words, on the input side of the reduction gear (13).

[0140] Additionally, in FIG. 7A, in the drive unit (2), the brake device (23) is positioned between the manual gear (22) and the reduction gear (24). That is, preferably in the drive unit (2) having the reduction gear (24), the brake device (23) is positioned between the electric motor (11) and the reduction gear (24) in the drive force transmission path (in other words, on the input side of the reduction gear (24).

[0141] By doing this, the brake device (12, 23) can be placed upstream (input side) of the reduction gear (13, 24). The driving force output to the reduction gear (13, 24) is smaller than the driving force output from the reduction gear (13, 24). Therefore, compared to a configuration where the brake device (12, 23) is placed downstream (output side) of the reduction gear (13, 24), the transmission of driving force from the electric motor (11) to the reduction gear (13, 24) can be suppressed or prevented with a smaller load.

[0142] However, the examples described above do not exclude configurations in which the brake device (12, 23) is not positioned between the electric motor (11) and the reduction gear (13, 24) in the driving force transmission path. For example, in the driving unit (208), the brake device (12, 23) may be positioned between the reduction gear (13, 24) and the sprocket (203) in the driving force transmission path. An example of this is a configuration in which the driving unit (208) has the output section (1) of FIG. 6D and the driving section (2) of FIG. 7D. Also, as in FIG. 6A, in the output section (1), the brake device (12) may be positioned between the reduction gear (13) and the output gear (15) in the driving force transmission path (in other words, on the output end side of the reduction gear (13). In addition, as shown in FIG. 7B, in the drive unit (2), the brake device (12) may be placed between the sprocket (203) and the reduction gear (24) in the drive force transmission path (in other words, on the output side of the reduction gear (24).

[0143] Additionally, preferably as shown in FIG. 7A, FIG. 7B and FIG. 7D, the drive unit (2) has a brake device (23). The brake device (23) is positioned between the transmission mechanism (3) (or manual gear (22)) and the sprocket (203) in the transmission path of the driving force, and suppresses or prevents the transmission of the driving force to the sprocket (203). In this way, by placing the brake device (23) in the hydraulic shovel (100) and the drive unit (2), the transmission of the driving force to the sprocket (203) can be reliably suppressed or prevented. For example, the brake device (23) can reliably suppress or prevent the driving (rotation) of the sprocket (203) even if the electric motor (11) becomes inoperable. However, this example does not exclude a configuration in which the driving unit (2) does not have a brake device (23), as in FIG. 7C and FIG. 7E.

[0144] <2. Second Embodiment>

[0145] Next, a second embodiment is described. In the second embodiment, the output section (1) is arranged in a horizontally inclined configuration such that the output shaft section (14) faces outward in the left and right directions and downward. Below, configurations different from the first embodiment are described. Also, the same reference numerals are used for components identical to those in the first embodiment. Additionally, descriptions of configurations identical to those in the first embodiment may be omitted.

[0146] FIG. 8 is a rear view showing an example of the configuration of a drive unit (208) in a second embodiment. FIG. 9 is a rear view showing another example of the configuration of a drive unit (208) in a second embodiment. In addition, the structures of the left and right drive units (208) are symmetrical and identical except for this. Therefore, in the description of the configuration of the drive unit (208), an example of the configuration of the left drive unit (208L) is described, and the description of the configuration of the right drive unit (208) is omitted. In addition, FIG. 8 and FIG. 9 are drawings of the left drive unit (208L) viewed from the rear side toward the front. In addition, in FIG. 8 and FIG. 9, the left side corresponds to the outer side in the left-right direction, and the right side corresponds to the inner side in the left-right direction.

[0147] In FIG. 8, the output portion (1) of the drive unit (208) has an electric motor (11), a brake device (12), an output shaft portion (14), and an output cover (16). The electric motor (11), the brake device (12), and the output shaft portion (14) are arranged in this order from the inner side in the left-right direction toward the outer side.

[0148] In addition, in FIG. 9, the output section (1) of the drive unit (208) has an electric motor (11), a brake device (12), a reduction gear (13), an output shaft section (14), and an output cover (16). The electric motor (11), the brake device (12), the reduction gear (13), and the output shaft section (14) are arranged in this order from the inner side in the left-right direction toward the outer side.

[0149] In the second embodiment, the electric motor (11) is arranged in an inclined horizontal configuration such that the output shaft (not shown) is directed outward in the left-right direction and downward. Additionally, the output shaft extends along the motor rotation axis (J4) and is rotatable around the motor rotation axis (J4). As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the motor rotation axis (J4) extends downward as it faces outward in the left-right direction. Preferably, the motor rotation axis (J4) extends further outward in the left-right direction as it faces outward in the left-right direction. However, this example does not exclude a configuration in which the motor rotation axis (J4) does not extend outward in the left-right direction as it faces outward in the left-right direction.

[0150] The output shaft portion (14) is connected to the output shaft of the electric motor (11) and extends along the motor rotation axis (J2). At least a portion of the output shaft portion (14) protrudes outward in the left and right directions from the end of the brake device (12) on the left and right outer side.

[0151] The configuration of the driving unit (2) in Fig. 8 is the same as that in Fig. 4. Also, the configuration of the driving unit (2) in Fig. 9 is the same as that in Fig. 5. Therefore, the description of the configuration of the driving unit (2) in the second embodiment is omitted.

[0152] The transmission mechanism (3) has a transmission shaft portion (33), a transmission cover (34), and a transmission gear (35). The transmission shaft portion (33) is connected to the output shaft portion (14) and extends along the motor rotation axis (J4). That is, the output shaft portion (14) and the transmission shaft portion (33) extend along the same axis (J4). In this way, for example, even if the end of the output shaft portion (14) on the transmission mechanism (3) side is connected to the end of the transmission shaft portion (33) on the output shaft portion (14) side, both the output shaft portion (14) and the transmission shaft portion (33) can be rotated around the same axis (J4). Therefore, the transmission shaft portion (33) can be connected to the output shaft portion (14) so ​​that they can rotate together with a simple configuration. Also, this example is not limited to this, and the transmission shaft (33) may be the same member as the output shaft (14).

[0153] The transmission gear (35) is a bevel gear and extends in a diameter direction relative to the motor rotation axis (J4). The transmission gear (35) is positioned on the drive part (2) side of the transmission shaft part (33) and meshes with the manual gear (22) of the drive part (2). The transmission gear (35) can rotate around the motor rotation axis (J4) together with the output shaft part (14) and the transmission shaft part (33).

[0154] The transmission cover (34) is a tubular member that accommodates the transmission shaft (33) and the transmission gear (35) and extends along the transmission shaft (33).

[0155] In addition, the configuration of the output unit (1) and the drive unit (2) in the second embodiment is not limited to the examples of FIGS. 8 and 9. For example, the output unit (1) in the second embodiment may have at least an electric motor (11), an output shaft (14), and an output cover (16). In addition, the drive unit (2) in the second embodiment may have at least an input shaft (21), a manual gear (22), a drive bearing (26), and an input cover (27). In addition, the brake device (12, 23) and the reduction gear (13, 24) may each be placed in at least one of the output unit (1) and the drive unit (2). However, this example does not exclude a configuration in which the brake device (12, 23) and the reduction gear (13, 24) are not placed in either the output unit (1) or the drive unit (2).

[0156] Each component of the output section (1) in the second embodiment can be arranged in the same way as in FIG. 6A to FIG. 6E of the first embodiment, except for the direction in which the output gear (15) and the motor rotation shaft (J4) extend.

[0157] FIG. 10A is a schematic diagram showing a first configuration example of the output unit (1) in the second embodiment. FIG. 10B is a schematic diagram showing a second configuration example of the output unit (1) in the second embodiment. FIG. 10C is a schematic diagram showing a third configuration example of the output unit (1) in the second embodiment. FIG. 10D is a schematic diagram showing a fourth configuration example of the output unit (1) in the second embodiment. FIG. 10E is a schematic diagram showing a fifth configuration example of the output unit (1) in the second embodiment. FIG. 10A to FIG. 10E are drawings of the output unit (1) of the left driving unit (208L) viewed from the rear side toward the front. Also, in FIG. 10A to FIG. 10E, the left side corresponds to the outer side in the left-right direction, and the right side corresponds to the inner side in the left-right direction.

[0158] For example, in the output section (1) shown in FIGS. 10A to 10E, the output gear (15) is not positioned on the side of the transmission mechanism (3) of the output shaft section (14). Additionally, the end of the transmission mechanism (3) side of the output shaft section (14) is connected to the end of the output section side of the transmission shaft section (33). In addition to these, each component of the output section (1) in FIGS. 10A to 10E is positioned along the motor rotation axis (J4) in the same manner as in FIGS. 6A to 6E.

[0159] In addition, each component of the driving unit (2) in the second embodiment can be arranged in the same way as in FIG. 7A to FIG. 7E of the first embodiment.

[0160] <3. Third Embodiment>

[0161] Next, a third embodiment is described. In the third embodiment, the output portion (1) is arranged horizontally such that the output shaft portion (14) faces outward in the front-rear direction. Below, configurations different from the first and second embodiments are described. Also, the same reference numerals are used for components identical to those in the first and second embodiments. Additionally, descriptions of configurations identical to those in the first and second embodiments may be omitted.

[0162] FIG. 11 is a rear view showing an example of the configuration of a drive unit (208) in a third embodiment. In addition, the structure of the left and right drive units (208) is symmetrical and identical except for this. Therefore, in the description of the configuration of the drive unit (208), an example of the configuration of the left drive unit (208L) is described, and the description of the configuration of the right drive unit (208) is omitted. Also, FIG. 11 is a view of the left drive unit (208L) seen from the rear side toward the front. In addition, in FIG. 11, the left side corresponds to the outer side in the left-right direction, and the right side corresponds to the inner side in the left-right direction.

[0163] In FIG. 11, except for the arrangement of the output section (1), the configuration of the output section (1), the driving section (2), and the transmission mechanism (3) is the same as in FIG. 4. In the output section (1) of FIG. 11, the output shaft of the electric motor (11), the output shaft section (14), etc., extend along the motor rotation axis (J5). The motor rotation axis (J5) extends in a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction and the direction in which the rotation axis (J1) of the sprocket (203) extends, and in short, it is parallel to the front-rear direction. For example, the output shaft of the electric motor (11) protrudes outward in the front-rear direction (rear) from the main end portion of the electric motor (11). The output shaft section (14) is arranged outward in the front-rear direction (rear) from the electric motor (11) and extends in the front-rear direction.

[0164] According to the third embodiment, the output section (1) can be placed horizontally with the output shaft (14) extended in the front-rear direction. Therefore, even if the number of components arranged side-by-side in the front-rear direction increases, the size of the output section (1) in the left-right and up-down directions is difficult to increase. Thus, the output section (1) can be placed compactly while being raised away from the road surface.

[0165] <4. Fourth Embodiment>

[0166] Next, a fourth embodiment is described. In the fourth embodiment, each end of the transmission shaft portion (33) of the transmission mechanism (3) is connected to the output shaft portion (14) of the output portion (1) and the input shaft portion (21) of the driving portion (2) by means of a free joint (41, 42) (e.g., a universal joint) instead of a bevel gear meshing structure. Below, configurations different from the first to third embodiments are described. Also, the same reference numerals are used for components identical to those in the first to third embodiments. Additionally, descriptions of configurations identical to those in the first to third embodiments may be omitted.

[0167] FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a drive unit (208) in the fourth embodiment. In addition, the structures of the left and right drive units (208) are symmetrical and identical except for this. Therefore, in the description of the configuration of the drive unit (208), an example of the configuration of the left drive unit (208L) is described, and the description of the configuration of the right drive unit (208) is omitted. Also, FIG. 12 is a view of the left drive unit (208L) from the rear side toward the front. In addition, in FIG. 12, the left side corresponds to the outer side in the left-right direction, and the right side corresponds to the inner side in the left-right direction.

[0168] As shown in FIG. 12, the end of the output section (1) side of the transmission shaft (33) is connected three-dimensionally and rotatably to the end of the transmission mechanism (3) side of the output shaft (14) by a material joint (41). In other words, the connection angle between the two can be freely changed. For example, in the connection portion between the two, the transmission shaft (33) can rotate in the pitch direction and the yaw direction relative to the output shaft (14).

[0169] Likewise, the end of the driving part (2) side of the transmission shaft part (33) is connected three-dimensionally and rotatably to the end of the transmission mechanism (3) side of the input shaft part (21) by a material joint (42). In other words, the connection angle of both can be freely changed. For example, in the connection part of both, the transmission shaft part (33) can rotate in the pitch direction and the yaw direction relative to the input shaft part (21).

[0170] Even if the configuration of the fourth embodiment is adopted, depending on the rotation of the motor rotation axis (J2) of the output shaft (14), the transmission shaft (33) rotates around the rotation axis (J3), and the input shaft (21) rotates around the rotation axis (J1). Therefore, just like in the first to third embodiments, the driving unit (208) can transmit the driving force (rotational force) of the output unit (1) to the driving unit (2) through the transmission mechanism (3), and drive the sprocket (203).

[0171] <5. Remarks>

[0172] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above. Furthermore, the embodiments described above are examples, and various modifications are possible in the combination of each component and each process, which are understood by those skilled in the art to be within the scope of the present invention.

[0173] For example, the configurations described in the first to fourth embodiments can be combined in accordance with the main gist of the present invention, provided that no particular contradiction occurs.

[0174] <6. Overview>

[0175] Below, the embodiments described so far will be described in a comprehensive manner.

[0176] For example, the work machine (100) disclosed in this specification is,

[0177] A work machine (100) having a driving body (200) capable of driving by a driving wheel (203) mounted on a side frame (2012) connected to the lower side of a center frame (2011),

[0178] An output unit (1) that is supported by the above center frame (2011) and outputs the driving force of an electric motor (11), and

[0179] A transmission mechanism (3) that transmits the driving force from the output unit (1) to the driving wheel (203) side

[0180] having,

[0181] The above transmission mechanism (3) is configured (first configuration) having a transmission shaft (33) that extends downward as it goes from the output part (1) side toward the drive wheel (203) side.

[0182] The working machine (100) of the first configuration above is,

[0183] The above transmission shaft (33) may be configured to extend further outward in the forward and backward direction (e.g., the rear in FIG. 3) as it moves from the output section (1) side toward the drive wheel (203) side (second configuration).

[0184] In addition, the working machine (100) of the first or second configuration above,

[0185] The output unit (1) has an output shaft unit (14) that outputs the driving force to the transmission mechanism (3), and

[0186] The output shaft (14) may be configured to extend in a direction parallel to the rotation axis (J1) of the drive wheel (203) (third configuration).

[0187] In addition, the working machine (100) of any one of the first to third configurations above,

[0188] The above transmission mechanism (3) is,

[0189] A first bevel gear (31) mounted on the output portion (1) side of the transmission shaft portion (33), and

[0190] A second bevel gear (32) mounted on the drive wheel (203) side of the transmission shaft (33)

[0191] It may also be a configuration that additionally has (4th configuration).

[0192] In addition, the working machine (100) of the fourth configuration above,

[0193] Additionally having a drive unit (2) that drives the above drive wheel (203),

[0194] The above output unit (1) is,

[0195] An output shaft portion (14) that outputs the above driving force to the transmission mechanism (3), and

[0196] A third bevel gear (15) mounted on the output shaft (14) and meshing with the first bevel gear (31)

[0197] having,

[0198] The above driving unit (2) is,

[0199] An input shaft (21) to which the driving force is transmitted from the above transmission mechanism (3), and

[0200] A fourth bevel gear (22) mounted on the input shaft (21) and meshing with the second bevel gear (32)

[0201] It may also be a configuration having (the 5th configuration).

[0202] In addition, the working machine (100) of the first or second configuration above,

[0203] The output unit (1) has an output shaft unit (14) that outputs the driving force to the transmission mechanism (3), and

[0204] The above output shaft (14) and the above transmission shaft (33) may be configured to extend along the same axis (J4) (6th configuration).

[0205] In addition, the working machine (100) of the first or second configuration above,

[0206] The rotation axis (J5) of the above electric motor (11) may be configured to extend in a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction and the direction in which the rotation axis (J1) of the above drive wheel (203) extends (configuration 7).

[0207] In addition, the working machine (100) of any one of the first to seventh configurations above,

[0208] A first reduction gear (13, 24) that increases the driving force by reduction according to a predetermined reduction ratio, and

[0209] A first brake device (12, 23) disposed between the electric motor (11) and the first reduction gear (13, 24) in the transmission path of the driving force, which suppresses or prevents the transmission of the driving force from the electric motor (11) to the first reduction gear (13, 24).

[0210] It may also be a configuration that has additional components (configuration 8).

[0211] In addition, the working machine (100) of any one of the above-mentioned first to eighth configurations is,

[0212] The output unit (1) may be configured (9th configuration) having a second reduction gear (13) that increases the driving force output from the electric motor (11) by reduction by a predetermined reduction ratio and outputs it to the transmission mechanism (3).

[0213] In addition, the working machine (100) of any one of the first to ninth configurations above,

[0214] Additionally having a drive unit (2) that drives the above drive wheel (203),

[0215] The above driving unit (2) may additionally have a third reduction gear (24) that increases the driving force transmitted from the above transmission mechanism (3) by reduction by a predetermined reduction ratio and outputs it to the driving wheel (203) (configuration of the 10th).

[0216] In addition, the working machine (100) of any one of the above-mentioned first to tenth configurations is,

[0217] Additionally having a drive unit (2) that drives the above drive wheel (203),

[0218] The above driving unit (2) may be configured (configuration 11) further having a second brake device (23) that is positioned between the transmission mechanism (3) and the driving wheel (203) in the transmission path of the driving force and suppresses or prevents the transmission of the driving force to the driving wheel (203). Industrial applicability

[0219] The present invention can be used in working machines, such as construction machinery and agricultural machinery, for example. Explanation of the symbols

[0220] 100 : Hydraulic Shovel (Work Machine) 200 : Underbody (Driving Body) 201 : Track Frame 2011: Center Frame 2012 : Side Frame 2013 : Link Frame 202 : Idler 203 : Sprocket (drive wheel) 204: Upper roller 205: Lower roller 206 : Crawler 207 : Maintenance Absence 208 : Drive unit 300 : Work machine 301 : Boom 3011 : Boom Cylinder 302 : Aam 3021 : Arm cylinder 303 : Bucket 3031 : Bucket cylinder 400 : Upper swivel body 401: Control Unit 4011: Driver's seat 402: Airframe 403: Slewing motor 404: Engine Room 405 : Bonnet 406 : Battery unit 407 : Motor 4081 : Hydraulic pump 4082 : Reservoir 4083 : Control valve 4084 : Hydraulic actuator 4085 : Hydraulic motor 1 : Output section 11: Electric motor 12: Brake device (1st brake device) 13 : Reducer (1st reducer, 2nd reducer) 14: Output shaft 15: Output gear (3rd bevel gear) 16 : Output cover 161 : Opening 2 : Driving unit 21 : Input shaft 22: Manual gear (4th bevel gear) 23: Brake device (1st brake device, 2nd brake device) 24 : Reducer (1st reducer, 3rd reducer) 25: Drive shaft part 26: Drive bearing 27 : Input Cover 271 : Opening 3: Transmission mechanism 31: 1st transmission gear (1st bevel gear) 32: Second transmission gear (second bevel gear) 33: Transmission shaft 34 : Delivery cover 35: Transmission gear 41, 42: Material joints

Claims

Claim 1 A working machine having a driving body capable of driving by a driving wheel mounted on a side frame connected to the lower side of a center frame, the working machine having an output unit supported by the center frame and outputting the driving force of an electric motor, and a transmission mechanism that transmits the driving force from the output unit to the driving wheel side, wherein the transmission mechanism has a transmission shaft that extends downward as it goes from the output unit side to the driving wheel side. Claim 2 A working machine according to claim 1, wherein the transmission shaft extends further outward in the forward and backward direction from the output side toward the driving wheel side. Claim 3 A working machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the output portion has an output shaft portion that outputs the driving force to the transmission mechanism, and the output shaft portion extends in a direction parallel to the rotation axis of the driving wheel. Claim 4 In claim 1 or 2, the transmission mechanism is, A first bevel gear mounted on the output side of the transmission shaft, and A working machine having a second bevel gear additionally mounted on the drive wheel side of the transmission shaft. Claim 5 In claim 4, the drive unit for driving the drive wheel is additionally provided, and the output unit is, An output shaft portion that outputs the above driving force to the transmission mechanism, and The drive unit has a third bevel gear mounted on the output shaft and meshing with the first bevel gear, and the drive unit, An input shaft portion to which the driving force is transmitted from the above transmission mechanism, and A working machine having a fourth bevel gear mounted on the input shaft and meshing with the second bevel gear. Claim 6 A working machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the output portion has an output shaft portion that outputs the driving force to the transmission mechanism, and the output shaft portion and the transmission shaft portion extend along the same axis. Claim 7 A working machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the rotation axis of the electric motor extends in a vertical direction and in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the rotation axis of the drive wheel extends. Claim 8 A working machine according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a first reduction gear that increases the driving force by reduction by a predetermined reduction ratio, and a first brake device disposed between the electric motor and the first reduction gear in the transmission path of the driving force, which suppresses or prevents the transmission of the driving force from the electric motor to the first reduction gear. Claim 9 A working machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the output unit has a second reduction gear that increases the driving force output from the electric motor by reduction according to a predetermined reduction ratio and outputs it to the transmission mechanism. Claim 10 A work machine according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a drive unit for driving the drive wheel, wherein the drive unit further comprises a third reduction gear that increases the driving force transmitted from the transmission mechanism by reduction according to a predetermined reduction ratio and outputs it to the drive wheel. Claim 11 A work machine according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a drive unit for driving the drive wheel, wherein the drive unit further comprises a second brake device disposed between the transmission mechanism and the drive wheel in the transmission path of the drive force and for suppressing or preventing the transmission of the drive force to the drive wheel.

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