Pedal control system and forklift truck having the same

Abstract

An embodiment of the present invention relates to a pedal control system, wherein the pedal control system installed on a forklift including a forklift capable of lifting and lowering includes a compound pedal capable of moving the forklift forward when rotated in one direction and moving the forklift backward when rotated in the other direction, and an inching button disposed on the compound pedal capable of adjusting power distribution for lifting and lowering the forklift.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a pedal control system and a forklift including the same, and more specifically, to a pedal control system including a compound pedal that enables a driver to move forward and backward with a single operation, and a forklift including the same. Background Technology

[0002] Generally, a forklift drives by receiving power from an engine. In addition, the lifting of the forks is controlled by hydraulic pressure provided by a hydraulic pump, which transports and loads cargo.

[0003] The driving direction of the forklift is determined by operating a separate lever or button to control forward or reverse movement. The operator controls the forward or reverse movement and speed of the forklift by operating the lever and the forklift's accelerator pedal.

[0004] The operator performs the work of transporting and loading cargo in the work area by repeatedly driving the forklift, raising and lowering the forks, and stopping the forklift.

[0005] Specifically, when repetitive forward, reverse, speed control, and braking are performed in the work area, there is a problem in that the driver experiences significant fatigue from operating the lever, speed pedal, and brake pedal. The problem to be solved

[0006] The present invention provides a pedal control system that facilitates the operator's steering, speed control, and braking of the forklift, and a forklift including the same. means of solving the problem

[0007] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a pedal control system installed on a forklift including a forklift capable of lifting and lowering includes a compound pedal capable of moving the forklift forward when rotated in one direction and moving the forklift backward when rotated in the other direction, and an inching button disposed on the compound pedal capable of adjusting power distribution for lifting and lowering the forklift.

[0008] In addition, the pedal control system described above may further include a rotation detection member that detects rotation information of the composite pedal, and a vehicle control unit that receives the rotation information of the rotation detection member and the operation information of the inching button to control the speed of the forklift.

[0009] In addition, the compound pedal may include an emergency braking area capable of stopping the driving of the forklift when it is rotated in one direction and then changed by more than a certain angle in the other direction, or rotated in the other direction and then changed by more than a certain angle in one direction.

[0010] Alternatively, a forklift including a forkliftable fork according to an embodiment of the present invention includes an engine, a variable speed pump operated by the engine and supplying fluid, a transmission disposed between the engine and the variable speed pump and capable of varying the speed of the forklift, a variable speed control valve for controlling the amount of fluid supplied from the variable speed pump to the transmission, a variable speed control unit for controlling the variable speed control valve, and a pedal control system comprising a composite pedal capable of determining the direction of travel of the forklift according to the direction of rotation, a rotation detection member for detecting rotation information of the composite pedal, an inching button disposed on the composite pedal capable of adjusting power distribution for lifting the forklift, and a vehicle control unit for controlling the fluid supplied to the transmission by controlling the variable speed control unit based on the rotation information detected by the rotation detection member and whether the inching button is operated.

[0011] In addition, the vehicle control unit can control the transmission control unit so that when the inching button is operated, a fluid with a relatively lower pressure than when the inching button is not operated is supplied to the transmission.

[0012] In addition, the transmission may include a forward clutch that enables the forklift to move in a forward direction and a reverse clutch that enables the forklift to move in a reverse direction.

[0013] Additionally, the transmission control valve may include a forward proportional control valve that proportionally controls and transmits the fluid of the transmission pump to the forward clutch, and a reverse proportional control valve that proportionally controls and transmits the fluid of the transmission pump to the reverse clutch.

[0014] In addition, the vehicle control unit can determine the direction of travel of the forklift by selectively controlling the forward proportional control valve or the reverse proportional control valve according to the rotational direction of the composite pedal detected by the rotational detection member.

[0015] In addition, the vehicle control unit may operate the forward proportional control valve when the compound pedal is rotated in one direction, and control the forward proportional control valve so that fluid at a first reference pressure is supplied to the forward clutch when it is determined that the inching button has been operated.

[0016] In addition, if the vehicle control unit determines that the inching button is not operated, it can control the forward proportional control valve so that a fluid with a second reference pressure higher than the first reference pressure is supplied to the forward clutch.

[0017] In addition, the vehicle control unit may increase the speed of the forklift in the forward direction when it determines that the rotational direction of the compound pedal is maintained and the rotational angle has increased.

[0018] In addition, the vehicle control unit may reduce the speed of the forklift in the forward direction when it determines that the rotational direction of the compound pedal is maintained and the rotational angle is reduced.

[0019] In addition, the vehicle control unit may control the forward proportional control valve so that the pressure of the fluid supplied to the forward clutch is maintained or reduced in order to reduce the speed of the forklift in the forward direction, and control the reverse proportional control valve so that the pressure of the fluid supplied to the reverse clutch is increased.

[0020] In addition, the vehicle control unit may stop the driving of the forklift when it determines that the rotational direction of the compound pedal has changed. Effects of the invention

[0021] According to embodiments of the present invention, a pedal control system and a forklift including the same allow a driver to easily operate the direction change, speed control, and braking of the forklift through a single pedal. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0022] FIG. 1 is a drawing showing a forklift according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIGS. 2 and 3 are drawings illustrating a pedal control system according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the configuration of a forklift including a pedal control system according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 illustrates the operation process of a pedal control system according to one embodiment of the present invention and a forklift including the same. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0023] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily implement the present invention. The present invention may be embodied in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0024] It should be noted that the drawings are schematic and not drawn to scale. The relative dimensions and proportions of parts in the drawings are exaggerated or reduced in size for clarity and convenience, and any dimensions are illustrative only and not limiting. Additionally, the same reference numerals are used to denote similar features for identical structural elements or parts appearing in two or more drawings.

[0025] The embodiments of the present invention specifically illustrate ideal embodiments of the present invention. As a result, various variations of the illustration are expected. Accordingly, the embodiments are not limited to the specific form of the illustrated area and include, for example, variations in form resulting from manufacturing.

[0026] Hereinafter, a pedal control system (201) according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3.

[0027] A pedal control system (201) is installed on a forklift (101). Specifically, the forklift (101) includes a fork (120) that can be raised and lowered, as shown in FIG. 1. In addition, the forklift (101) performs tasks such as loading and transporting cargo.

[0028] Additionally, the pedal control system (201) includes a compound pedal (300) and an inching button (500), as illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3.

[0029] The compound pedal (300) can move the forklift forward when rotated in one direction and move the forklift backward when rotated in the other direction. Specifically, the compound pedal (300) is installed in the driver's seat (110) of the forklift (101) and can be operated by the force applied by the driver stepping on the compound pedal (300). That is, the compound pedal (300) is installed on the floor of the driver's seat (110) to receive the force, thereby determining the direction of rotation and the inclination.

[0030] The inching button (500) is positioned on the compound pedal (300). Additionally, the inching button (500) can adjust the power distribution for the lifting and lowering of the fork (120). Also, the inching button (500) is positioned on the compound pedal (300), so that the driver can selectively turn it on / off by stepping on it.

[0031] Specifically, when the inching button (500) is operated, the flow of hydraulic fluid to the driving drive unit can be directed toward the work unit. That is, the inching button (500) can compensate for a lack of power in the work unit.

[0032] Accordingly, the pedal control system (201) allows the driver to selectively control the direction of movement of the forklift (101) by operating the rotational direction of a single compound pedal (300). The driver can effectively determine the forward or backward direction of movement of the forklift (101) solely by selectively operating the rotational direction of the compound pedal (300).

[0033] In addition, a pedal control system (201) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a rotation detection member (510) and a vehicle control unit (910), as shown in FIG. 4.

[0034] The rotation detection member (510) can detect rotation information of the composite pedal (300). Specifically, the composite pedal (300) may be rotatably supported by a rotation support member (400) on the floor of the driver's seat (110). Additionally, the composite pedal (300) can cause the forklift (101) to move forward when rotated in one direction away from the driver of the driver's seat (110). Furthermore, the composite pedal (300) can cause the forklift (101) to move backward when rotated in the other direction toward the driver of the driver's seat (110).

[0035] The rotation detection member (510) can detect rotation information of the composite pedal (300). Specifically, the rotation detection member (510) can detect rotation direction and rotation tilt information of the composite pedal (300).

[0036] The vehicle control unit (910) can receive rotation information from the rotation detection member (510). That is, the rotation detection member (510) can detect rotation information of the composite pedal (300) and transmit it to the vehicle control unit (910).

[0037] Additionally, the vehicle control unit (910) can receive operation information of the inching button (500). Specifically, on / off status information of the inching button (500) can be transmitted to the vehicle control unit (910).

[0038] Additionally, the vehicle control unit (910) can control the speed of the forklift (101) based on the rotation information of the rotation detection member (510) and the operation information of the inching button (500). Specifically, the vehicle control unit (910) can control the speed of the forklift (101) based on the on / off operation status information of the inching button (500) and the rotation direction and rotation angle of the composite pedal (300) detected by the rotation detection member (510).

[0039] In addition, a composite pedal (300) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a sudden braking area (600) as shown in FIG. 3.

[0040] The emergency braking area (600) can stop the driving of the forklift (101) when the compound pedal (300) is rotated in one direction and then changed to the other direction by a certain angle or more, or when the compound pedal (300) is rotated in the other direction and then changed to one direction by a certain angle or more. That is, when the compound pedal (300) is in the emergency braking area (600), the driving of the forklift (101) can be stopped.

[0041] The emergency braking area (600) may be a rotation angle of the compound pedal (300) greater than a certain degree. Additionally, when the compound pedal (300) is located in the emergency braking area (600), the vehicle control unit (910) may stop the driving of the forklift (101). Also, whether the compound pedal (300) is located in the emergency braking area (600) can be detected by the rotation detection member (510).

[0042] Specifically, the emergency braking area (600) may include a first braking area (610) and a second braking area (620).

[0043] The first braking area (610) may be an area where the compound pedal (300) rotates in one direction. Additionally, the second braking area (620) may be an area where the compound pedal (300) rotates in the other direction.

[0044] When the composite pedal (300) is rotated in one direction and the forklift (101) is in a forward state, the vehicle control unit (910) can control the forklift (101) to stop when the composite pedal (300) detected by the rotation detection member (510) rotates to the second braking area (620).

[0045] Alternatively, when the composite pedal (300) is rotated in the other direction and the forklift (101) is in a reverse state, the vehicle control unit (910) can control the forklift (101) to stop when the composite pedal (300) detected by the rotation detection member (510) rotates to the first braking area (610).

[0046] For example, when the rotation angle of the compound pedal (300) is set to 0 (zero) during normal driving, the vehicle control unit (910) can cause the forklift (101) to stop when the rotation value of the compound pedal (300) detected by the rotation detection member (510) exceeds 0 and rotates in the rearward direction while the compound pedal (300) is rotated in the forward direction away from the driver. Specifically, the vehicle control unit (910) can cause the forklift (101) to stop when the rotation value of the compound pedal (300) detected by the rotation detection member (510) exceeds a set value while the compound pedal (300) is rotated in the forward direction away from the driver, and the current rotation of the compound pedal (300) is rotated in the rearward direction, which is the direction closer to the driver. This allows the forklift (101) to be braked suddenly without having to separately press the brake pedal on the forklift (101).

[0047] That is, when the change in the rotational direction of the composite pedal (300) detected by the rotation detection member (510) is greater than the set value, the rotational angle of the composite pedal (300) during normal operation when driving is not taking place may exceed 0, and the rotational direction of the composite pedal (300) may change from the forward direction to the rear direction.

[0048] Alternatively, the vehicle control unit (910) may cause the forklift (101) to stop when the rotation value of the composite pedal (300) detected by the rotation detection member (510) exceeds 0 and rotates forward while the composite pedal (300) is rotated in the rearward direction away from the driver. Specifically, the vehicle control unit (910) may cause the forklift (101) to stop when the rotation value of the composite pedal (300) detected by the rotation detection member (510) exceeds a set value while the composite pedal (300) is rotated in the rearward direction away from the driver, and the current rotation of the composite pedal (300) is rotated forward, away from the driver. This allows the forklift (101) to be braked suddenly without the need to separately press the brake pedal on the forklift (101).

[0049] That is, when the change in the rotational direction of the composite pedal (300) detected by the rotation detection member (510) is greater than the set value, the rotational angle of the composite pedal (300) during normal operation when driving is not taking place may exceed 0, and the rotational direction of the composite pedal (300) may change from the rear direction to the front direction.

[0050] Accordingly, the pedal control system (201) according to one embodiment of the present invention can brake the driving of the forklift (101) without a separate brake pedal.

[0051] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4, a forklift (101) including a pedal control system (201) according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0052] The forklift (101) includes a fork (120). Specifically, the forklift (101) raises and lowers the fork (120) to load or transport cargo.

[0053] A forklift (101) according to one embodiment of the present invention includes, as illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 4, an engine (10), a transmission pump (840), a transmission (800), a transmission control valve (700), a transmission control unit (920), and a pedal control system (201).

[0054] The engine (10) provides power to drive the forklift (101). Specifically, the engine (10) can be placed in the engine room of the forklift (101), etc.

[0055] The variable speed pump (840) is operated by the engine (10) and supplies fluid.

[0056] The transmission (800) is positioned between the engine (10) and the variable speed pump (840) and can vary the speed of the forklift (101). Specifically, the engine (10) operates the variable speed pump (840), and the operation of the variable speed pump (840) can transmit the driving force of the engine (10) through the transmission (800).

[0057] The transmission control valve (700) controls the amount of fluid supplied from the transmission pump (840) to the transmission (800). Specifically, the transmission control valve (700) can control the flow of fluid between the transmission pump (840) and the transmission (800).

[0058] The transmission control unit (920) controls the opening and closing and the opening amount of the transmission control valve (700). Specifically, the transmission control unit (920) can control the transmission control valve (700) to control the amount of fluid supplied from the transmission pump (840) to the transmission (800).

[0059] The pedal control system (201) includes a composite pedal (300), a rotation detection member (510), an inching button (500), and a vehicle control unit (910), as illustrated in FIGS. 2 and FIGS. 4.

[0060] The composite pedal (300) can determine the direction of travel of the forklift (101) according to the direction of rotation. Specifically, the composite pedal (300) is placed on the floor of the driver's seat (110) of the forklift (101), and the direction of rotation can be determined by the pedal force transmitted by the driver. Accordingly, the composite pedal (300) can rotate in one direction away from the driver or in the other direction closer to the driver. In addition, the composite pedal (300) can be supported so as to be rotatable on the floor of the driver's seat (110) by a rotation support member (400).

[0061] The rotation detection member (510) can detect rotation information of the composite pedal (300). Specifically, the rotation detection member (510) can detect the rotation direction and rotation angle of the composite pedal (300).

[0062] The inching button (500) can be placed on the compound pedal (300). Additionally, the inching button (500) can be selectively turned on / off to control power distribution for the lifting and lowering of the fork (120). Furthermore, the inching button (500) can be operated by the pedal force of the driver.

[0063] The vehicle control unit (910) can control the fluid supplied to the transmission (800) by controlling the transmission control unit (920) based on rotation information detected by the rotation detection member (510) and whether the inching button (500) is operated.

[0064] Specifically, the vehicle control unit (910) can control the amount of fluid supplied from the transmission pump (840) to the transmission (800) by operating the transmission control valve (700) based on the rotation information detected by the rotation detection member (510) and whether the inching button (500) is operated.

[0065] Accordingly, a forklift (101) according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a pedal control system (201) so that the driver can effectively determine the vehicle direction of the forklift (101) by operating a compound pedal (300). In addition, an inching button (500) is placed on the compound pedal (300) so that the driver can effectively operate the inching of the forklift (101).

[0066] Additionally, a vehicle control unit (910) according to one embodiment of the present invention can control a transmission control unit (920) so that when the inching button (500) is operated, a fluid with a relatively lower pressure than when the inching button (500) is not operated is supplied to the transmission (800).

[0067] The vehicle control unit (910) can control the transmission control unit (920) so that a first reference pressure is applied to the transmission (800) when the inching button (500) is operated. At this time, the transmission control unit (920) can adjust the opening amount of the transmission control valve (700) so that the fluid pressure of the first reference pressure is applied to the transmission (800).

[0068] For example, the first reference pressure may be a fluid pressure of 3 bar to 4 bar.

[0069] Alternatively, the vehicle control unit (910) may control the transmission control unit (920) so that a second reference pressure is applied to the transmission (800) when the inching button (500) is not operated. At this time, the transmission control unit (920) may adjust the opening amount of the transmission control valve (700) so that the fluid pressure of the second reference pressure is applied to the transmission (800).

[0070] For example, the second reference pressure may be a fluid pressure of 10 bar to 16 bar.

[0071] The vehicle control unit (910) can control the transmission control unit (920) so that when the inching button (500) is operated, a fluid with a relatively lower pressure than when the inching button (500) is not operated is supplied to the transmission (800).

[0072] In addition, the transmission (800) of the forklift (101) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a forward clutch (810) and a reverse clutch (820).

[0073] The forward clutch (810) allows the forklift (101) to move in the forward direction. Additionally, the forward clutch (810) can be placed inside the transmission (800).

[0074] The reverse clutch (820) allows the forklift (101) to move in the reverse direction. Additionally, the reverse clutch (820) can be placed inside the transmission (800).

[0075] In addition, a transmission control valve (700) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a forward proportional control valve (710) and a reverse proportional control valve (710).

[0076] The forward proportional control valve (710) can proportionally control and transmit the fluid of the transmission pump (840) to the forward clutch (810). Specifically, the forward proportional control valve (710) can proportionally control the fluid of the transmission pump (840) to the forward clutch (810). Accordingly, the forward proportional control valve (710) can regulate the pressure of the fluid acting on the forward clutch (810).

[0077] The reverse proportional control valve (710) can proportionally control and transmit the fluid of the variable speed pump (840) to the reverse clutch (820). Specifically, the reverse proportional control valve (710) can proportionally control the fluid of the variable speed pump (840) to the reverse clutch (820). Accordingly, the reverse proportional control valve (710) can regulate the pressure of the fluid acting on the reverse clutch (820).

[0078] In addition, a vehicle control unit (910) according to one embodiment of the present invention can selectively control a forward proportional control valve (710) or a reverse proportional control valve (710) according to the rotational direction of the composite pedal (300) detected by the rotation detection member (510).

[0079] The vehicle control unit (910) can receive rotation information regarding the rotation direction of the composite pedal (300) detected by the rotation detection member (510). If the rotation direction of the composite pedal (300) received from the rotation detection member (510) is one direction, the vehicle control unit (910) can control the transmission control unit (920). At this time, the vehicle control unit (910) can cause the transmission control unit (920) to adjust the opening amount of the forward proportional control valve (710) so that fluid from the transmission pump (840) is supplied to the forward clutch (810). Accordingly, the direction of travel can be determined so that the forklift (101) travels in the forward direction.

[0080] Alternatively, if the rotational direction of the composite pedal (300) received from the rotation detection member (510) is the other direction, the vehicle control unit (910) can control the transmission control unit (920). At this time, the vehicle control unit (910) can cause the transmission control unit (920) to adjust the opening amount of the reverse proportional control valve (710) so that fluid from the transmission pump (840) is supplied to the reverse clutch (820). Accordingly, the direction of travel of the forklift (101) can be determined so that it travels in the reverse direction.

[0081] In addition, the vehicle control unit (910) according to one embodiment of the present invention may operate the forward proportional control valve (710) when the compound pedal (300) is rotated in one direction, and the reference pressure of the fluid may be adjusted according to the operating state of the inching button (500).

[0082] The vehicle control unit (910) can control the transmission control unit (920) so that the forward proportional control valve (710) is operated when the composite pedal (300) is rotated in one direction by the rotation information of the composite pedal (300) received from the rotation detection member (510). Additionally, the vehicle control unit (910) can ensure that fluid at a first reference pressure is supplied to the forward clutch (810) when the inching button (500) is operated. Specifically, when the vehicle control unit (910) determines that the inching button (500) is operated, the transmission control unit (920) can control the forward proportional control valve (710) so that the fluid of the transmission pump (840) is supplied to the forward clutch (810) at the first reference pressure.

[0083] Alternatively, the vehicle control unit (910) may control the transmission control unit (920) so that the reverse proportional control valve (710) is operated when the composite pedal (300) is rotated in the other direction by the rotation information of the composite pedal (300) received from the rotation detection member (510). In addition, the vehicle control unit (910) may allow fluid at a first reference pressure to be supplied to the reverse clutch (820) when the inching button (500) is operated. Specifically, when the vehicle control unit (910) determines that the inching button (500) is operated, the transmission control unit (920) may control the forward proportional control valve (710) so that the fluid of the transmission pump (840) is supplied to the reverse clutch (820) at the first reference pressure.

[0084] That is, the vehicle control unit (910) can determine the direction of travel of the forklift (101) based on information from the rotation detection member (510) and control the transmission control unit (920) to select and control the operation of the forward proportional control valve (710) or the reverse proportional control valve (710) so that fluid is supplied to the clutch according to the direction of travel. In addition, the vehicle control unit (910) can receive information regarding whether the inching button (500) is operated and control the pressure of the fluid supplied to the forward proportional control valve (710) or the reverse proportional control valve (710).

[0085] Additionally, if the vehicle control unit (910) according to one embodiment of the present invention determines that the inching button (500) is not operated, it can control the forward proportional control valve (710) so that a fluid with a second reference pressure higher than the first reference pressure is supplied to the forward clutch (810).

[0086] The vehicle control unit (910) can ensure that fluid at a second reference pressure is supplied to the forward clutch (810) when it determines that the inching button (500) is not operated. Specifically, when the vehicle control unit (910) determines that the inching button (500) is not operated, the transmission control unit (920) can control the reverse proportional control valve (710) so that the fluid of the transmission pump (840) is supplied to the forward clutch (810) at the second reference pressure.

[0087] Alternatively, if the vehicle control unit (910) determines that the inching button (500) is not operated, it may cause fluid at a second reference pressure to be supplied to the reverse clutch (820). Specifically, if the vehicle control unit (910) determines that the inching button (500) is not operated, it may cause the transmission control unit (920) to control the reverse proportional control valve (710) so that the fluid of the transmission pump (840) is supplied to the reverse clutch (820) at the second reference pressure.

[0088] In addition, the vehicle control unit (910) according to one embodiment of the present invention can increase the speed of the forklift (101) in the direction of travel when it determines that the rotational direction of the composite pedal (300) is maintained and the rotational angle is increased.

[0089] When the vehicle control unit (910) determines that the rotational direction of the composite pedal (300) detected by the rotation detection member (510) is maintained and its rotational angle is increased, it can increase the speed of the current direction of travel of the forklift (101). That is, if the rotational value of the composite pedal (300) is defined as 0 when the forklift (101) is in a stationary state, and the rotational angle of the composite pedal (300) increases in one direction while the composite pedal (300) is rotated in one direction, the vehicle control unit (910) can increase the speed of the forward direction of the forklift (101). At this time, the vehicle control unit (910) can increase the rotational RPM of the engine (10) so that the forklift (101) maintains the forward direction and its speed of travel increases.

[0090] Alternatively, when the compound pedal (300) is rotated in the other direction and the angle of rotation of the compound pedal (300) in the other direction increases, the vehicle control unit (910) can increase the speed in the reverse direction of the forklift (101). At this time, the vehicle control unit (910) can increase the rotational RPM of the engine (10) to maintain the reverse direction of the forklift (101) and increase its forward speed.

[0091] In addition, the vehicle control unit (910) according to one embodiment of the present invention can reduce the speed of the forklift (101) in the direction of travel when it determines that the rotational direction of the composite pedal (300) is maintained and the rotational angle is reduced.

[0092] When the vehicle control unit (910) determines that the rotational direction of the composite pedal (300) detected by the rotation detection member (510) is maintained and its rotational angle is reduced, the vehicle control unit (910) can reduce the speed of the current direction of travel of the forklift (101). That is, when the forklift (101) is in a stationary state, the rotational value of the composite pedal (300) is defined as 0. When the rotational angle of the composite pedal (300) is reduced in one direction while the composite pedal (300) is rotated in one direction, the vehicle control unit (910) can reduce the speed of the forward direction of the forklift (101).

[0093] At this time, the vehicle control unit (910) can control the transmission control unit (920) to reduce the pressure of the fluid provided by the forward proportional control valve (710) to the forward clutch (810) and increase the pressure of the fluid provided by the reverse proportional control valve (710) to the reverse clutch (820).

[0094] Specifically, the vehicle control unit (910) can reduce the speed of the forklift (101) by supplying fluid to the reverse clutch (820) when the rotation angle of the compound pedal (300) decreases in one direction when the inching button (500) is off and the forklift (101) is in a forward state. At this time, the transmission control unit (920) can control the forward proportional control valve (710) so that a fluid pressure of 0 bar to 5 bar is supplied to the forward clutch (810). In addition, the transmission control unit (920) can control the reverse proportional control valve (710) so that a fluid pressure of 0 bar to 5 bar is supplied to the reverse clutch (820). That is, the transmission control unit (920) can create a situation where power transmission is impossible by simultaneously applying a fluid pressure of 0 bar to 5 bar to the forward clutch (810) and the reverse clutch (820). Also, since high pressure is not applied to the forward clutch (810) and the reverse clutch (820), damage to them can be prevented. Therefore, the forklift (101) can be driven in the forward direction.

[0095] Alternatively, the vehicle control unit (910) can reduce the speed of the forklift (101) by providing fluid to the reverse clutch (820) when the rotation angle of the compound pedal (300) is reduced in one direction when the inching button (500) is in the on state and the forklift (101) is in the forward state. At this time, the transmission control unit (920) can maintain the first reference pressure provided by the forward proportional control valve (710) to the forward clutch (810). In addition, the transmission control unit (920) can control the reverse proportional control valve (710) so that a fluid pressure of 0 bar to 5 bar is provided to the reverse clutch (820). That is, the transmission control unit (920) can reduce the driving speed of the forklift (101) in the forward direction by supplying fluid of a first reference pressure to the forward clutch (810) and simultaneously applying a fluid pressure of 0 bar to 5 bar to the reverse clutch (820).

[0096] Alternatively, the vehicle control unit (910) can reduce the speed of the forklift (101) by supplying fluid to the forward clutch (810) when the rotation angle of the compound pedal (300) is reduced in the other direction when the inching button (500) is off and the forklift (101) is in a reverse state. At this time, the transmission control unit (920) can control the reverse proportional control valve (710) so that a fluid pressure of 0 bar to 5 bar is supplied to the reverse clutch (820). In addition, the transmission control unit (920) can control the forward proportional control valve (710) so that a fluid pressure of 0 bar to 5 bar is supplied to the forward clutch (810). Accordingly, the driving of the forklift (101) in the reverse direction can be reduced.

[0097] Alternatively, the vehicle control unit (910) can reduce the speed of the forklift (101) by providing fluid to the forward clutch (810) when the rotation angle of the compound pedal (300) is reduced in the other direction when the inching button (500) is in the on state and the forklift (101) is in the reverse state. At this time, the transmission control unit (920) can maintain the first reference pressure provided by the reverse proportional control valve (710) to the reverse clutch (820). In addition, the transmission control unit (920) can control the forward proportional control valve (710) so that a fluid pressure of 0 bar to 5 bar is provided to the forward clutch (810). That is, the transmission control unit (920) can reduce the driving speed of the forklift (101) in the reverse direction by supplying fluid of a first reference pressure to the reverse clutch (820) and simultaneously applying a fluid pressure of 0 bar to 5 bar to the forward clutch (810).

[0098] In addition, a forklift (101) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a parking brake (830) and a wheel (20).

[0099] The wheel (20) can enable the forklift (101) to drive. Specifically, the wheel (20) can rotate by receiving power from the engine (10) and enable the forklift (101) to drive.

[0100] The parking brake (830) can stop the forklift (101) from driving.

[0101] In addition, the vehicle control unit (910) according to one embodiment of the present invention may stop the forklift (101) when it determines that the rotational direction of the compound pedal (300) has changed.

[0102] The vehicle control unit (910) can control the forklift (101) to stop when the forklift (101) is in a forward state with the compound pedal (300) rotated in one direction and the compound pedal (300) detected by the rotation detection member (510) rotates into the second braking area (620). Specifically, when the rotation information of the compound pedal (300) detected by the rotation detection member (510) indicates that the rotation angle of the compound pedal (300) which was rotating in one direction has decreased and the rotation value of the compound pedal (300) has exceeded 0 and the compound pedal (300) has rotated in the other direction, the vehicle control unit (910) can determine that the rotation direction of the compound pedal (300) has changed.

[0103] At this time, the vehicle control unit (910) may operate the parking brake (830) to stop the forward movement of the forklift (101). Specifically, the vehicle control unit (910) may proportionally control the parking brake (830) according to the magnitude of the rotation angle of the composite pedal (300) that has been rotated in the other direction detected by the rotation detection member (510).

[0104] The vehicle control unit (910) can control the forklift (101) to stop when the composite pedal (300) is rotated in the other direction and the forklift (101) is in a reverse state, and the composite pedal (300) detected by the rotation detection member (510) is rotated into the first braking area (610). Specifically, when the rotation information of the composite pedal (300) detected by the rotation detection member (510) indicates that the rotation angle of the composite pedal (300) which was rotating in the other direction has decreased and the rotation value of the composite pedal (300) has exceeded 0 and the composite pedal (300) has rotated in one direction, the vehicle control unit (910) can determine that the rotation direction of the composite pedal (300) has changed.

[0105] At this time, the vehicle control unit (910) can operate the parking brake (830) to stop the forklift (101) from driving in reverse. Specifically, the vehicle control unit (910) can proportionally control the parking brake (830) according to the magnitude of the rotation angle of the composite pedal (300) rotated in one direction detected by the rotation detection member (510).

[0106] In addition, if the vehicle control unit (910) according to one embodiment of the present invention determines that the rotational direction of the composite pedal (300) has not changed, it may only cause the forklift (101) to decelerate.

[0107] When the rotation information of the composite pedal (300) detected by the rotation detection member (510) indicates that the rotation angle of the composite pedal (300) which was rotating in one direction has decreased, but the rotation value of the composite pedal (300) does not exceed 0 and maintains rotation in one direction, the vehicle control unit (910) can determine that the rotation direction of the composite pedal (300) has not changed. At this time, the vehicle control unit (910) can reduce only the speed while the forklift (101) maintains forward driving.

[0108] Alternatively, if the rotation information of the composite pedal (300) detected by the rotation detection member (510) indicates that the rotation angle of the composite pedal (300) which was rotating in the other direction has decreased, but the rotation value of the composite pedal (300) does not exceed 0 and maintains rotation in the other direction, the vehicle control unit (910) may determine that the rotation direction of the composite pedal (300) has not changed. At this time, the vehicle control unit (910) may reduce only the speed while the forklift (101) maintains reverse driving.

[0109] In addition, a forklift (101) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a speed detection member (930).

[0110] The speed detection member (930) can detect the driving speed of the forklift (101). The driving speed information of the forklift (101) detected by the speed detection member (930) can be transmitted to the vehicle control unit (910). Specifically, the vehicle control unit (910) has speed information based on the rotation angle of the composite pedal (300) pre-set. Accordingly, the vehicle control unit (910) can control the driving speed of the forklift (101) to increase or decrease based on the current driving speed of the forklift (101) detected by the speed detection member (930) and the rotation angle of the composite pedal (300) detected by the rotation detection member (510).

[0111] Additionally, a forklift (101) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a hydraulic pump (850), a main control valve (860), and a lifting cylinder (870) for moving the fork (120).

[0112] The hydraulic pump (850) can supply hydraulic pressure for driving the forklift (101) and moving the lifting cylinder (870). The hydraulic pressure from the hydraulic pump (850) to the lifting cylinder (870) can be controlled according to the opening amount of the main control valve (860). The main control valve (860) can be controlled by the vehicle control unit (910). Specifically, the hydraulic pump (850) is operated by the rotation of the engine (10), and the main control valve (860) controls the amount of fluid supplied to the lifting cylinder (870) to control the lifting of the fork (120). The main control valve (860) can control the hydraulic pressure of the hydraulic pump (850) so that it is used for driving or the lifting of the fork (120).

[0113] When the inching button (500) is on, the pressure supplied into the transmission (800) by the main control valve (860) can be reduced to reduce the power transmitted to the wheel (20) of the forklift (101) and allow hydraulic pressure to be supplied to the lifting cylinder (870). Thus, when the inching button (500) is on, the vehicle control unit (910) can compensate for the lack of power for driving the lifting cylinder (870) by allowing a large amount of hydraulic pressure to flow into the lifting cylinder (870) for lifting the fork (120).

[0114] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5, the operation process of a pedal control system (201) of a forklift (101) according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0115] The vehicle control unit (910) determines whether the rotational direction of the composite pedal (300) is for the forward direction of the forklift (101) (S100). Specifically, the vehicle control unit (910) can determine whether the rotational direction of the composite pedal (300) detected by the rotation detection member (510) is unidirectional. That is, the vehicle control unit (910) can determine the driving direction of the forklift (101) based on the detection information of the rotation detection member (510).

[0116] When the rotation direction of the composite pedal (300) detected by the rotation detection member (510) is one direction, the vehicle control unit (910) determines whether the inching button (500) is on (S200). Depending on the on / off state of the inching button (500), the vehicle control unit (910) can determine whether the inching button (500) has been operated by the driver. That is, the vehicle control unit (910) determines whether the inching button (500) has been operated when the driving direction of the forklift (101) is in a forward state.

[0117] When the vehicle control unit (910) determines that the inching button (500) is on, it controls the transmission control unit (920) so that the forward proportional control valve (710) applies a fluid pressure of the first reference pressure to the forward clutch (810) (S210). Specifically, the vehicle control unit (910) controls the transmission control unit (920) so that the transmission control unit (920) controls the opening amount of the forward proportional control valve (710) to apply a fluid pressure of the first reference pressure to the forward clutch (810).

[0118] The vehicle control unit (910) determines whether the rotation of the composite pedal (300) has increased (S400). Specifically, the rotation detection member (510) detects whether the rotation angle of the composite pedal (300) has increased while the composite pedal (300) maintains its rotation direction. Then, the information detected by the rotation detection member (510) is transmitted to the vehicle control unit (910). Based on the information detected by the rotation detection member (510), the vehicle control unit (910) determines whether the rotation angle of the composite pedal (300) has increased.

[0119] When the vehicle control unit (910) determines that the rotation of the compound pedal (300) has increased, the vehicle control unit (910) increases the RPM of the engine (10) (S410).

[0120] The vehicle control unit (910) determines whether the forklift (101) is currently being driven at a target speed (S500). Specifically, the vehicle control unit (910) can adjust the RPM of the engine (10) by comparing the current speed of the forklift (101) detected by the speed detection member (930) with the target speed at which the forklift (101) should be driven according to the rotational state of the preset compound pedal (300).

[0121] At this time, since the inching button (500) is in the ON state, the vehicle control unit (910) can control the main control valve (860) to regulate the flow of hydraulic fluid so that hydraulic fluid used for operating the wheel (20) is supplied to the lifting cylinder (870).

[0122] In S200, when the vehicle control unit (910) determines that the inching button (500) is off, it controls the transmission control unit (920) so that the forward proportional control valve (710) applies a fluid pressure of a second reference pressure to the forward clutch (810) (S220). Specifically, the vehicle control unit (910) controls the transmission control unit (920) so that the transmission control unit (920) controls the opening amount of the forward proportional control valve (710) to apply a fluid pressure of a second reference pressure to the forward clutch (810).

[0123] Afterward, the vehicle control unit (910) determines whether the rotation of the compound pedal (300) has increased (S400). Additionally, if the vehicle control unit (910) determines that the rotation of the compound pedal (300) has increased, the vehicle control unit (910) can increase the RPM of the engine (10) to accelerate the forklift (101) (S410). Then, the vehicle control unit (910) determines whether the forklift (101) is currently traveling at a target speed (S500). Specifically, the vehicle control unit (910) can adjust the RPM of the engine (10) by comparing the current speed of the forklift (101) detected by the speed detection member (930) with the target speed at which the forklift (101) should travel according to the preset rotation state of the compound pedal (300).

[0124] At this time, since the inching button (500) is in the off state, the vehicle control unit (910) can increase the speed of the forklift (101).

[0125] In S100, if the vehicle control unit (910) determines that the rotational direction of the compound pedal (300) is not the forward direction of the forklift (101), the vehicle control unit (910) determines whether the inching button (500) is on (S300). That is, the vehicle control unit (910) determines that the rotational direction of the compound pedal (300) is rotated in the other direction and the forklift (101) moves backward, and then determines whether the inching button (500) of the vehicle control unit (910) is on.

[0126] When the vehicle control unit (910) determines that the inching button (500) is on, it applies a fluid pressure of a first reference pressure to the reverse clutch (820) (S310). Specifically, the vehicle control unit (910) can control the transmission control unit (920) so that the transmission control unit (920) controls the opening amount of the reverse proportional control valve (710) to apply a fluid pressure of a first reference pressure to the reverse clutch (820).

[0127] Alternatively, when the vehicle control unit (910) determines that the inching button (500) is off, it controls the transmission control unit (920) so that the reverse proportional control valve (710) applies a fluid pressure of a second reference pressure to the reverse clutch (820) (S320). Specifically, the vehicle control unit (910) can control the transmission control unit (920) so that the transmission control unit (920) controls the opening amount of the reverse proportional control valve (710) to apply a fluid pressure of a second reference pressure to the reverse clutch (820).

[0128] When the vehicle control unit (910) determines that the inching button (500) is on or off, the vehicle control unit (910) determines whether the rotation of the compound pedal (300) has increased, as in S400.

[0129] In S400, if the forklift (101) is driving in reverse and the inching button (500) is determined to be on or off, and the vehicle control unit (910) determines that the rotation of the compound pedal (300) has increased, the process may proceed to the aforementioned S410 and S500.

[0130] Alternatively, in S400, if the vehicle control unit (910) determines that the rotation of the composite pedal (300) has not increased, the forklift (101) is decelerated (S420). At this time, the vehicle control unit (910) receives information including a change in the rotation direction in which the rotation angle of the composite pedal (300) detected by the rotation detection member (510) is reduced, or the rotation value of the composite pedal (300) exceeds 0 and is rotated in a different direction.

[0131] Additionally, the vehicle control unit (910) determines whether the compound pedal (300) is located in the emergency braking area (600) (S600). Specifically, the vehicle control unit (910) determines whether the rotation value of the compound pedal (300) exceeds 0 and the rotation direction of the compound pedal (300) has changed to another direction based on the information detected by the rotation detection member (510).

[0132] When the vehicle control unit (910) determines that the compound pedal (300) is not located in the emergency braking area (600), it determines whether the current forklift (101) is being driven at a target speed (S700). Specifically, the vehicle control unit (910) can control the deceleration of the forklift (101) by comparing the current speed of the forklift (101) detected by the speed detection member (930) with the target speed at which the forklift (101) should be driven according to the rotational state of the preset compound pedal (300).

[0133] For example, if the vehicle control unit (910) determines that the rotation direction of the composite pedal (300) detected by the rotation detection member (510) is maintained and its rotation angle is reduced, the vehicle control unit (910) can reduce the speed in the current direction of travel of the forklift (101). That is, if the rotation value of the composite pedal (300) is defined as 0 when the forklift (101) is in a stationary state, and the rotation angle of the composite pedal (300) is reduced in one direction while the composite pedal (300) is rotated in one direction, the vehicle control unit (910) can reduce the speed in the forward direction of the forklift (101).

[0134] At this time, the vehicle control unit (910) can control the transmission control unit (920) to reduce the pressure of the fluid provided by the forward proportional control valve (710) to the forward clutch (810) and increase the pressure of the fluid provided by the reverse proportional control valve (710) to the reverse clutch (820).

[0135] Specifically, the vehicle control unit (910) can reduce the speed of the forklift (101) by supplying fluid to the reverse clutch (820) when the rotation angle of the compound pedal (300) decreases in one direction when the inching button (500) is off and the forklift (101) is in a forward state. At this time, the transmission control unit (920) can control the forward proportional control valve (710) so that a fluid pressure of 0 bar to 5 bar is supplied to the forward clutch (810). In addition, the transmission control unit (920) can control the reverse proportional control valve (710) so that a fluid pressure of 0 bar to 5 bar is supplied to the reverse clutch (820). That is, the transmission control unit (920) can create a situation where power transmission is impossible by simultaneously applying a fluid pressure of 0 bar to 5 bar to the forward clutch (810) and the reverse clutch (820). Also, since high pressure is not applied to the forward clutch (810) and the reverse clutch (820), damage to them can be prevented. Therefore, the forklift (101) can be driven in the forward direction.

[0136] Alternatively, the vehicle control unit (910) can reduce the speed of the forklift (101) by providing fluid to the reverse clutch (820) when the rotation angle of the compound pedal (300) is reduced in one direction when the inching button (500) is in the on state and the forklift (101) is in the forward state. At this time, the transmission control unit (920) can maintain the first reference pressure provided by the forward proportional control valve (710) to the forward clutch (810). In addition, the transmission control unit (920) can control the reverse proportional control valve (710) so that a fluid pressure of 0 bar to 5 bar is provided to the reverse clutch (820). That is, the transmission control unit (920) can reduce the driving speed of the forklift (101) in the forward direction by supplying fluid of a first reference pressure to the forward clutch (810) and simultaneously applying a fluid pressure of 0 bar to 5 bar to the reverse clutch (820).

[0137] Alternatively, the vehicle control unit (910) can reduce the speed of the forklift (101) by supplying fluid to the forward clutch (810) when the rotation angle of the compound pedal (300) is reduced in the other direction when the inching button (500) is off and the forklift (101) is in a reverse state. At this time, the transmission control unit (920) can control the reverse proportional control valve (710) so that a fluid pressure of 0 bar to 5 bar is supplied to the reverse clutch (820). In addition, the transmission control unit (920) can control the forward proportional control valve (710) so that a fluid pressure of 0 bar to 5 bar is supplied to the forward clutch (810). Accordingly, the driving of the forklift (101) in the reverse direction can be reduced.

[0138] Alternatively, the vehicle control unit (910) can reduce the speed of the forklift (101) by providing fluid to the forward clutch (810) when the rotation angle of the compound pedal (300) is reduced in the other direction when the inching button (500) is in the on state and the forklift (101) is in the reverse state. At this time, the transmission control unit (920) can maintain the first reference pressure provided by the reverse proportional control valve (710) to the reverse clutch (820). In addition, the transmission control unit (920) can control the forward proportional control valve (710) so that a fluid pressure of 0 bar to 5 bar is provided to the forward clutch (810). That is, the transmission control unit (920) can reduce the driving speed of the forklift (101) in the reverse direction by supplying fluid of a first reference pressure to the reverse clutch (820) and simultaneously applying a fluid pressure of 0 bar to 5 bar to the forward clutch (810).

[0139] In S600, if the vehicle control unit (910) determines that the composite pedal (300) is located in the emergency braking area (600), the forklift (101) is made to perform emergency braking (S610). Specifically, if the rotational direction of the composite pedal (300) detected by the rotation detection member (510) changes and the rotational value of the composite pedal (300) exceeds 0 and rotates in a different direction, the vehicle control unit (910) may operate the parking brake (830) to stop the driving of the forklift (101). At this time, the vehicle control unit (910) may control the sensitivity of the parking brake (830) according to the rotational angle of the composite pedal (300) to perform proportional control. That is, the vehicle control unit (910) can proportionally control the operation of the parking brake (830) so that it operates faster as the rotation angle of the compound pedal (300) increases into the emergency braking area (600).

[0140] In other words, when the compound pedal (300) is in a state where the rotation value is 0 (before the rotation direction is changed), braking force can be secured through the contact of the forward clutch (810) and the reverse clutch (820). Subsequently, when the compound pedal (300) rotates into the emergency braking area (600) with a rotation value exceeding 0, the parking brake (830) is engaged, and the engagement force of the parking brake (830) can be proportionally controlled according to the degree of rotation angle of the compound pedal (300). That is, the vehicle control unit (910) can control the opening amount of the proportional control valve to control the pressure supplied to the piston of the parking brake (830) to perform braking of the forklift (101).

[0141] Accordingly, the pedal control system (201) according to one embodiment of the present invention and the forklift (101) including the same allow the driver to determine the driving direction of the forklift (101) solely by operating the rotational direction of the compound pedal (300). In addition, the inching operation of the forklift (101) can also be easily operated by the driver by turning on / off the inching button (500) placed on the compound pedal (300).

[0142] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the attached drawings, those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains will understand that the present invention may be implemented in other specific forms without changing its technical concept or essential features.

[0143] Therefore, the embodiments described above should be understood as illustrative in all respects and not limiting, and the scope of the invention is defined by the claims set forth below, and all modifications or variations derived from the meaning and scope of the claims and equivalents thereof should be interpreted as being included within the scope of the invention. Explanation of the symbols

[0144] 101: Forklift 110: Driver's cab 120: Fork 201: Pedal control system 300: Composite pedal 400: Meeting Support 500: First-person button 600: Emergency braking zone 610: First braking zone 620: Second braking area 510: Rotation detection member 700: Shift control valve 710: Forward proportional control valve 720: Reverse proportional control valve 800: Transmission 810: Forward clutch 820: Reverse clutch 830: Parking brake 840: Variable speed pump 850: Hydraulic pump 860: Main control valve 870: Lifting cylinder 910: Vehicle control unit 920: Transmission control unit 930: Speed ​​detection member 10: Engine 20: Wheel

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