Maintenance management system for work machines, maintenance management method for work machines, and maintenance management program for work machines

Abstract

The maintenance management system (200) is equipped with an acquisition unit (201) and an output unit (203). The acquisition unit (201) acquires the actual operating time of a target work machine (2) that includes a plurality of management units. The output unit (203) uses the virtual operating time for each management unit derived from the actual operating time to output maintenance information regarding the maintenance time for at least one of the plurality of management units.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a maintenance management system for a work machine that performs management related to the maintenance of a work machine including a plurality of management units, a maintenance management method for a work machine, and a maintenance management program for a work machine. Background Technology

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses setting the timing for the next maintenance or parts replacement based on the value of an hour meter that measures the accumulated time of components involved in driving, such as an engine, mounted on a work vehicle. Prior art literature

[0003] Japanese Patent Publication No. 6126029 The problem to be solved

[0004] The setting of maintenance timing based on the hour meter value described in Patent Document 1 is based on the premise that the work vehicle performs average driving and work. However, if the work environment, the method of operating the work vehicle, etc., differ, there may be a significant difference in the degree of wear of specific parts of the work vehicle even with the same operating time. For this reason, it is difficult to accurately set the maintenance timing for each part of the work vehicle using a method that sets maintenance timing based solely on the hour meter value.

[0005] The objective of the present invention is to provide a maintenance management system for a work machine, a maintenance management method for a work machine, and a maintenance management program for a work machine, which makes it easy to accurately set the maintenance timing for each part of the work machine. means of solving the problem

[0006] A maintenance management system for a work machine related to one aspect of the present invention comprises an acquisition unit and an output unit. The acquisition unit acquires the actual operating time of a target work machine including a plurality of management units. The output unit outputs maintenance information regarding the maintenance time for at least one of the plurality of management units using a virtual operating time for each of the management units derived from the actual operating time.

[0007] A maintenance management method for a work machine related to another aspect of the present invention comprises obtaining the actual operating time of a target work machine including a plurality of management units and outputting maintenance information. Regarding the maintenance information, the maintenance information concerning the maintenance time for at least one of the plurality of management units is output using the virtual operating time for each of the management units derived from the actual operating time.

[0008] A maintenance management program for a work machine related to another aspect of the present invention is a program for executing, on one or more processors, the actual operating time of a target work machine including a plurality of management units and the output of maintenance information. Regarding the maintenance information, the maintenance information concerning the maintenance time for at least one of the plurality of management units is output using the virtual operating time for each of the management units derived from the actual operating time. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0009] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of an operation evaluation system to which a virtual operation time calculation device related to one embodiment of the present invention is applied. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of a work vehicle, a service terminal, and a server. Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the contents of a part table. Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the contents of a basic coefficient table. Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the contents of a coefficient calculation formula table for each part. Figure 6 is a graph representing the standard normal distribution. Figure 7 is a schematic diagram showing the probability range and the probability variable range corresponding to each class number. Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the contents of a probability variable threshold table. Figure 9 is a flowchart showing the sequence of virtual operating time calculation processing executed by the virtual operating time calculation unit. FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing that, with respect to type YH1111, actual operating time and operation status information during the attention period are calculated for each of the multiple combines belonging to type YH1111 by processing steps S1 and S2 of FIG. 9. Figure 11 is a schematic diagram showing the probability range and x value range corresponding to each class number. Figure 12 shows an example of class classification results for each of the basic coefficients A, B, C, and D of a combine with type YH1111 and machine number 2A1. FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the basic coefficients calculated for each of the basic coefficients A, B, C, and D of a combine of type YH1111 and code 2A1. FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the coefficients for each part of a combine, in which the basic coefficients A, B, C, and D of the combine are the coefficients shown in FIG. 12, when the type is YH1111 and the number is 2A1. FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the virtual operating time for each target part of a work vehicle when the part-specific coefficient of a combine of type YH1111 and number 2A1 is the coefficient as shown in FIG. 14. FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram showing a specific example of a part table for a specific type of combine. FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram showing a specific example of a basic coefficient table for a specific type of combine. FIG. 18 is a schematic diagram showing a specific example of a table for calculating coefficients by part for a specific type of combine. FIG. 19 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an aggregation condition input screen displayed on a service terminal. FIG. 20 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an output screen displayed on a service terminal. FIG. 21 is a schematic diagram showing another example of an output screen displayed on a service terminal. FIG. 22 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a maintenance management system related to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 23 is a schematic diagram showing a specific example of a maintenance table. FIG. 24 is a schematic diagram showing a specific example of a reference source table. FIG. 25 is a schematic diagram showing a specific example of a virtual time table. FIG. 26 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an output screen displayed on a display device. FIG. 27 is a schematic diagram showing another example of an output screen displayed on a display device. FIG. 28 is a schematic diagram showing another example of an output screen displayed on a display device. Figure 29 is a flowchart showing the sequence of maintenance management methods executed by a maintenance management system. FIG. 30 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an output screen displayed on a display device by a maintenance management system related to Embodiment 2 of the present invention. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the attached drawings. The following embodiments are examples of embodying the present invention and are not intended to limit the technical scope of the present invention.

[0011] (Embodiment 1)

[0012] [1] Virtual operating time calculation device

[0013] First, a time calculation unit (202) (see FIG. 22) used in the maintenance management system (200) (see FIG. 22) of a work machine related to the present embodiment will be described. The time calculation unit (202) calculates a virtual operating time for each management unit of the target work machine. The time calculation unit (202) is realized by a virtual operating time calculation device described below.

[0014] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of an operation evaluation system to which a virtual operation time calculation device related to one embodiment of the present invention is applied.

[0015] The operation evaluation system (1) includes a plurality of work vehicles (2), a service terminal (3) installed at a service base, and a server (4) as a virtual operation time calculation device.

[0016] The service terminal (3) is installed at a service base (service point) that performs maintenance on the work vehicle (2). Although only one service terminal (3) is shown in FIG. 1, since there are actually multiple service points that perform maintenance on the work vehicle (2), there are actually multiple service terminals (3). The server (4) is formed within a designated management center.

[0017] Each work vehicle (2) can communicate with the server (4) through the communication network (5). Also, the service terminal (3) can communicate with the server (4) through the communication network (5).

[0018] A plurality of work vehicles (2) include, for example, a plurality of combines (2A) of type YH1111, a plurality of tractors (2B) of type YT2222, and a plurality of rice transplanters (2C) of type YR3333. The plurality of combines (2A) of type YH1111 include a plurality of combines (2A1, 2A2, …, 2A) with different model numbers. L Includes ).

[0019] Multiple tractors (2B) of type YT2222 are multiple tractors with different numbers (2B1, 2B2, …, 2B M Includes ).

[0020] Multiple rice transplanters (2C) of type YR3333 are multiple rice transplanters (2C1, 2C2, …, 2C) with different numbers N Includes ).

[0021] Each work vehicle (2) is equipped with a function to determine the location of the work vehicle (2) using a positioning satellite (city omitted). Each work vehicle (2) transmits information (hereinafter referred to as “vehicle-side information”) including vehicle identification information (in this example, the type and number of the work vehicle (2)), location information, and operation information to a server (4).

[0022] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of a work vehicle (2), a service terminal (3), and a server (4).

[0023] The work vehicle (2) includes a vehicle control unit (10). The vehicle control unit (10) includes a microcomputer equipped with a CPU and memory (volatile memory, non-volatile memory, etc.) (11). The vehicle control unit (10) controls the operation of the work vehicle (2) (operations such as moving forward, backward, stopping, turning, etc.). A plurality of controllers (controller types (21)) for controlling each part of the work vehicle (2) are electrically connected to the vehicle control unit (10).

[0024] In the case where the work vehicle (2) is a combine (2A), the plurality of controllers include an engine controller that controls the engine's rotational speed, a driving controller that controls the crawler that is the driving part, and a work controller that controls the work parts such as the harvesting part and the threshing part.

[0025] In the case where the work vehicle (2) is a tractor (2B), the plurality of controllers include an engine controller that controls the rotational speed of the engine, a vehicle speed controller that controls the vehicle speed of the tractor (2B), a steering controller that controls the steering angle of the front wheels of the tractor (2B), a PTO shaft controller that controls the rotation of the PTO shaft, etc.

[0026] In the case where the work vehicle (2) is a rice transplanter (2C), the plurality of controllers include, in addition to the engine controller, vehicle speed controller, and steering controller, a lifting controller for controlling the lifting of the planting unit, and a PTO shaft controller for rotating or stopping the planting input case of the planting unit.

[0027] In addition, the vehicle control unit (10) is connected to an hour meter (22), a position information calculation unit (23), a communication unit (24), a display unit (25), an operation unit (26), a memory unit (27), etc. The hour meter (22) measures the accumulated value of the time (total operating time) from when the engine of the work vehicle (2) is turned on until it is turned off.

[0028] A satellite signal receiving antenna (28) is electrically connected to the position information calculation unit (23). The satellite signal receiving antenna (28) receives signals from a positioning satellite (not shown) that constitutes a satellite positioning system. The satellite positioning system is, for example, a GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System). The position information calculation unit (23) calculates the position of a work vehicle (2) (strictly speaking, the satellite signal receiving antenna (28)) based on the positioning signal received from the satellite signal receiving antenna (28). Specifically, the position information calculation unit (23) generates positioning information including time information and position information. The position information consists of, for example, latitude information and longitude information.

[0029] The communication unit (24) is a communication interface for the vehicle control unit (10) to communicate with the server (4) through the communication network (5). The display unit (25) is, for example, a liquid crystal display. The operation unit (26) has a plurality of levers or switches formed therein.

[0030] The memory unit (27) is composed of a memory device such as a non-volatile memory. The memory unit (27) has a location information memory unit (31), a movement information memory unit (32), etc. formed therein.

[0031] The vehicle control unit (10) includes an information acquisition processing unit (12). The information acquisition processing unit (12) acquires position information calculated at predetermined intervals by the position information calculation unit (23) during the period from when the engine is turned on until it is turned off, and stores it in the position information storage unit (31). Additionally, the information acquisition processing unit (12) acquires operation information provided at predetermined intervals from the vehicle control unit (10) during the period from when the engine is turned on until it is turned off, and stores it in the operation information storage unit (32). The operation information includes on / off information of one or more on / off members set according to each type, and analog information which is one or more measured or detected values ​​set according to each type. The on / off members include various clutches. The analog information includes the total operating time measured by the hour meter (22) (hereinafter referred to as "hour meter value"), engine load rate, vehicle speed, engine coolant temperature, fuel consumption rate, etc.

[0032] Then, the information acquisition processing unit (12) transmits the location information for each time period stored in the location information storage unit (31) and the operation information for each time period stored in the operation information storage unit (32), along with the vehicle identification information (model / number), to the server (4) at a predetermined timing (e.g., when the power key is turned off). In short, vehicle-side information consisting of vehicle identification information, location information for each time period, and operation information is transmitted from the work vehicle (2) to the server (4).

[0033] The service terminal (3) is composed of a personal computer (PC) and includes a control device (PC main body) (41), a display (42), an operating device (43) such as a mouse and keyboard, and a communication unit (44). The communication unit (44) is a communication interface for the control device (41) to communicate with a server (4) through a communication network (5).

[0034] The control unit (41) includes, but is not shown, a CPU, memory, a hard disk, etc. In addition to the OS (operation system), the hard disk stores programs such as a browser for viewing web pages and other necessary data.

[0035] The server (4) is equipped with a server control unit (50). The server control unit (50) is connected to a communication unit (61), an operation display unit (62), an operation unit (63), a memory unit (64), etc. The communication unit (61) is a communication interface for the server control unit (50) to communicate with the vehicle control unit (10) of each work vehicle (2) or the control device (41) of the service terminal (3) through a communication network (5). The operation display unit (62) is, for example, made of a touch panel type display. The operation unit (63) includes, for example, a keyboard, a mouse, etc. The memory unit (64) is composed of a memory device such as a hard disk or non-volatile memory.

[0036] In the memory unit (64), the vehicle-side information memory unit (71), part table (72), basic coefficient table (73), part-specific coefficient calculation formula table (74), probability variable threshold table (75), virtual operating time memory unit (76), etc. are formed.

[0037] In the vehicle-side information memory unit (71), time-by-time location information and operation information received from the vehicle control unit (10) of the work vehicle (2) are stored in relation to the vehicle identification information received from the vehicle control unit (10).

[0038] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the contents of a part table (72).

[0039] In the part table (72), for each type, parts (target parts) that are subject to the calculation of virtual operating time are stored. In the example of FIG. 3, for type YH1111, four parts are stored as target parts. For type YT2222, three parts are stored as target parts. For YR3333, two parts are stored as target parts.

[0040] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the contents of a basic coefficient table (73).

[0041] In the basic coefficient table (73), for each type, the types of basic coefficients required for calculating virtual operating time and operation status information for calculating each basic coefficient are stored. In the example of FIG. 4, for type YH1111, four types of basic coefficients A to D and four operation status information for calculating these basic coefficients A to D are stored. The operation status information for calculating basic coefficients A to D is, respectively, "sum of on / off information 1," "sum of on / off information 2," "average of analog information 1," and "average of analog information 2."

[0042] For type YT2222, three types of basic coefficients A to C and operation status information for calculating these basic coefficients A to C are stored. The operation status information for calculating basic coefficients A to C is, respectively, "sum of on / off information 1", "sum of on / off information 2", and "standard deviation of analog information 1".

[0043] For the type YR3333, two types of basic coefficients A and B and operation status information for calculating these basic coefficients A and B are stored. The operation status information for calculating basic coefficients A and B is, respectively, the sum of "on / off information 2" and the "maximum value of analog information 2".

[0044] As for the operation status information, "the ratio of the sum of the number of times a specified on / off information is turned on during a certain period to the actual operating time of that period" or "the ratio of the sum of the on times a specified on / off information is turned on during that period to the actual operating time of that period" may be used. In short, the operation status information consists of basic statistics of the specified operation information (sum, mean, standard deviation, minimum value, maximum value, median, mode, etc.), the ratio of the basic statistics of the specified operation information during the relevant period to the actual operating time of that period, etc.

[0045] In addition, the numbers of On / Off Information 1 and On / Off Information 2, or the numbers of Analog Information 1 and Analog Information 2, are numbers used to distinguish operating information within the same format and have no correlation between different formats. For example, On / Off Information 1 of format YH1111 and On / Off Information 1 of format YT2222 are not limited to being the same type of information. The same applies to the basic coefficients A to D.

[0046] In the following, the operating information that serves as the basis for calculating the operating status information may be referred to as “raw information.” For example, the raw information of “the sum of On / Off Information 1” is On / Off Information 1. Also, the raw information of “the average of Analog Information 1” is Analog Information 1.

[0047] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the contents of a table (74) for calculating coefficients by part.

[0048] The table of calculation formulas for each part (74) stores the calculation formulas for each part that are used to calculate the virtual operating time for each type and each target part.

[0049] In the example of FIG. 5, for type YH1111, a formula for calculating the coefficients for each part of part 1, part 2, part 3, and part 4 of the type is stored. The formula for calculating the coefficients for each part is represented using all or part of the basic coefficients A to D of the corresponding type. For type YT2222, a formula for calculating the coefficients for each part of part 1, part 2, and part 3 of the type is stored. For type YR3333, a formula for calculating the coefficients for each part of part 1 and part 2 of the type is stored.

[0050] A probability variable threshold table (75) is described. In the probability variable threshold table (75), one or more probability variable thresholds are stored for dividing the distribution range of a standard normal distribution into a predetermined number of classes.

[0051] Figure 6 is a graph representing the standard normal distribution. The standard normal distribution is a normal distribution with a mean of 0 and a variance of 1. The horizontal axis of Figure 6 represents the random variable z, and the vertical axis represents the probability density.

[0052] In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6, there are 11 probability variable threshold values ​​z1 to z 11 Using, classes CL1 to CL where the entire distribution is 12 12 It is divided into. In Fig. 6, there are 11 probability variable threshold values ​​z1 to z 11 Department, each class CL1~ CL 12 Numbers 11 to 12 and the ratio [%] of the area of ​​each part corresponding to each class to the total area of ​​the distribution (hereinafter referred to as "total area") are displayed.

[0053] In the following, the range from the ratio [%] of the total area of ​​the area from the minimum value (-4.00) of the random variable to the lower limit value of the random variable in a certain class to the ratio [%] of the total area of ​​the area from the minimum value (-4.00) of the random variable to the upper limit value of the random variable in that class shall be referred to as the “probability range.”

[0054] Figure 7 shows the probability range and the probability variable range corresponding to each class number i (i = 1, 2, 3, …, 11, 12).

[0055] In the probability variable threshold table (75), as shown in FIG. 8, there are 11 probability variable thresholds z1 to z 11 The value of is remembered.

[0056] In the virtual operating time memory unit (76), virtual operating time calculated for each period, each format, each time, and each target part is stored.

[0057] The server control unit (50) includes a microcomputer equipped with a CPU and memory (ROM, RAM, etc.) (51). The server control unit (50) includes an information acquisition unit (52), a virtual operating time calculation unit (53), and a virtual operating time providing unit (54). The virtual operating time providing unit (54) is an example of the “output screen generating unit” of the present invention.

[0058] When the information acquisition unit (52) receives location information and operation information at each time along with vehicle identification information from the work vehicle (2), it stores the received location information and operation information at each time in the vehicle-side information storage unit (71) in relation to the received vehicle identification information.

[0059] The virtual operating time calculation unit (53) calculates the virtual operating time within a predetermined period for each of the one or more target parts set for each type and for each work vehicle (2). When focusing on one work vehicle (2) among the predetermined multiple work vehicles belonging to a predetermined type, the virtual operating time calculation unit (53) calculates the virtual operating time for a predetermined period for each of the one or more target parts in the work vehicle of the said type. The predetermined period is, for example, a period in years or a period in months.

[0060] The virtual operating time calculation unit (53) includes an operation status information calculation unit (53A), a basic coefficient calculation unit (53B), a coefficient calculation unit by part (53C), and a virtual operating time calculation unit by part (53D). Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, a case in which virtual operating time is calculated for a target part during a predetermined period (attention period) of a work vehicle (attention work vehicle) belonging to a certain type (attention type) will be described.

[0061] The operation status information calculation unit (53A) calculates a predetermined plurality of operation status information (see FIG. 4) for each of the plurality of work vehicles belonging to the attention type, based on operation information within the attention period of the plurality of work vehicles (2) belonging to the attention type including the attention work vehicle (2).

[0062] The basic coefficient calculation unit (53B) calculates multiple types of basic coefficients (see FIG. 4) for calculating the virtual operating time of a work vehicle by comparing the operation situation information of a work vehicle in the attention type with the operation situation information of all work vehicles in the attention type, based on multiple operation situation information calculated for each work vehicle in the attention type.

[0063] In this embodiment, the basic coefficient calculation unit (53B) considers that for each operation status information of a work vehicle in focus, the distribution of the operation status information in all of the work vehicles in the focus type follows a normal distribution, divides the distribution range of the normal distribution into multiple classes, determines the class to which the operation status information of the work vehicle in focus belongs, and calculates the basic coefficient based on the determined class.

[0064] The part-specific coefficient calculation unit (53C) calculates part-specific coefficients for each target part of the target work vehicle based on a plurality of basic coefficients and a part-specific coefficient calculation formula (see FIG. 5) that is pre-set for each target part.

[0065] The virtual operating time calculation unit (53D) calculates the virtual operating time for each target part by multiplying the actual operating time within the attention period of the attention work vehicle by the coefficient for each target part. Then, the virtual operating time calculation unit (53D) stores the calculated virtual operating time for each target part in the virtual operating time memory unit (76) as the virtual operating time for each target part during the attention period of the attention work vehicle of the said attention type.

[0066] The virtual operating time providing unit (54) obtains the virtual operating time according to the conditions input from the service terminal (3) from the virtual operating time memory unit (76) and provides it to the service terminal (3). By doing so, the operator of the service terminal (3) can obtain the required virtual operating time from the server (4) and display it on the service terminal (3).

[0067] FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the sequence of virtual operating time calculation processing executed by the virtual operating time calculation unit (53).

[0068] Here, to facilitate understanding, we will explain the case of calculating the virtual operating time for each target part during the attention period of a attention work vehicle belonging to the attention type.

[0069] The operation status information calculation unit (53A) within the virtual operation time calculation unit (53) calculates the actual operation time during the attention period based on the hour meter value in the operation information for each work vehicle (2) belonging to the attention type (step S1). Specifically, the operation status information calculation unit (53A) calculates the actual operation time during the attention period by subtracting the minimum value from the maximum value of the hour meter value during the attention period for each work vehicle (2) belonging to the attention type.

[0070] Next, the operation status information calculation unit (53A) calculates operation status information according to the target type (see FIG. 4) based on the original information (operation information) according to the target type within the operation information for each work vehicle (2) belonging to the target type (step S2).

[0071] For example, if the type of attention is YH1111, then, as shown in FIG. 10, by processing steps S1 and S2, combines (2A1, 2A2, …, 2A) belonging to type YH1111 are obtained. L For each ), the actual operating time during the observation period and operation status information according to the model YH1111 are calculated. The operation status information according to the model YH1111 is the sum of On / Off Information 1 within the observation period, the sum of On / Off Information 2 within the observation period, the average of Analog Information 1 within the observation period, and the average of Analog Information 2 within the observation period. In FIG. 10, for convenience of explanation, combines (2A1, 2A2, …, 2A L The base numbers of ) respectively, 2A1, 2A2, … , 2A L It is represented as.

[0072] Next, the basic coefficient calculation unit (53B) within the virtual operating time calculation unit (53) performs processing to calculate the average (μ) and standard deviation (σ) across the entire type of attention for each operation situation information for the type of attention (steps S3 to S5).

[0073] Specifically, the basic coefficient calculation unit (53B) first performs a first calculation target exclusion process (step S3). More specifically, the basic coefficient calculation unit (53B) excludes work vehicles (2) belonging to the attention type whose actual operating time within the attention period is less than or equal to a predetermined time from the calculation target of the average and standard deviation of all operation status information for the attention type.

[0074] Next, the basic coefficient calculation unit (53B) performs a second calculation target exclusion process (step S4). Specifically, for each operation status information for a type of attention, the basic coefficient calculation unit (53B) lists the corresponding operation status information of all work vehicles belonging to the type of attention (excluding those excluded from calculation in step S3) in order from smallest to largest. Then, the corresponding operation status information within the lower α% and the corresponding operation status information within the upper β% are excluded from the calculation target for the mean and standard deviation of the corresponding operation status information. For example, if there are 20 vehicles belonging to the type of attention and α and β are both 10%, then for a certain operation status information, the corresponding operation status information of the lower 2 vehicles and the corresponding operation status information of the upper 2 vehicles are excluded from the calculation target for the mean and standard deviation of the corresponding operation status information.

[0075] And, the basic coefficient calculation unit (53B) calculates the average (μ) and standard deviation (σ) of all work vehicles belonging to the attention type for each operation situation information of the attention type, using information that was not excluded in steps S3 and S4 (step S5).

[0076] Next, the basic coefficient calculation unit (53B) determines the class to which the operation situation information belongs by using the mean (μ) and standard deviation (σ) of the operation situation information calculated in step S5 and a standardization formula for each operation situation information of the work vehicle to be observed, and assigns a basic coefficient according to the determination result (step S6).

[0077] A case in which the class to which certain operation situation information (attention operation situation information) of a attention work vehicle belongs is determined, and a basic coefficient according to the determination result is assigned to the attention operation situation information is explained in detail. The basic coefficient calculation unit (53B) takes the mean (μ) and standard deviation (σ) of the attention operation situation information and the probability variable thresholds z1 to z stored in the probability variable threshold table (75) (see FIG. 8). 11 Using this, a threshold for class classification is calculated to classify attention operation situation information into classes.

[0078] Let x be the attention operation situation information, and let μ and σ be the mean and standard deviation of the entire attention format of the operation situation information corresponding to the attention operation situation information x, respectively. Then, the formula for standardizing the attention operation situation information x is given by the following formula (1).

[0079] z = x - μ / σ … (1)

[0080] From this equation (1), the threshold x for class classification to classify the attention operation situation information x is i is represented by the following equation (2).

[0081] x i = σz i + μ … (2)

[0082] The basic coefficient calculation unit (53B) is a probability variable threshold z1 to z 11 By substituting into Equation (2), the probability variable threshold values ​​z1 to z 11Class classification thresholds x1 to x corresponding to each 11 It calculates 11 class classification thresholds x1 to x for classifying the attention operation situation information x into classes 1 to 12. 11 This is obtained.

[0083] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram showing the probability range and x value range corresponding to each class number.

[0084] The basic coefficient calculation unit (53B) is a threshold value x1 to x for class classification. 11 Based on this, it is determined which of classes 1 to 12 the attention operation situation information x belongs to. Then, the basic coefficient calculation unit (53B) assigns a basic coefficient according to the determination result to the attention operation situation information x.

[0085] Specifically, the basic coefficient calculation unit (53B) calculates the basic coefficient k for the attention operation situation information x based on the following equation (3). i is the class number of the class to which the attention operation situation information x belongs. μ is the average of the entire attention format of the operation situation information corresponding to the attention operation situation information x.

[0086]

[0087] The coefficient for each part indicates that the greater the value, the harsher the usage of the subject part compared to the average usage, and the less the value, the more lenient the usage of the subject part compared to the average usage.

[0088] FIG. 12 shows an example of class classification results for each of the operation status information corresponding to the basic coefficients A, B, C, and D of a combine (2A1) of type YH1111 and code 2A1. In FIG. 12, the probability range corresponding to the class classification results is indicated in parentheses to make it easier to understand the content of the class classification results.

[0089] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the basic coefficients calculated for each of the basic coefficients A, B, C, and D of a combine (2A1) of type YH1111 and also of type 2A1.

[0090] Next, the part-specific coefficient calculation unit (53C) within the virtual operating time calculation unit (53) calculates a part-specific coefficient for each target part of the work vehicle (step S7).

[0091] Specifically, the part-specific coefficient calculation unit (53C) calculates part-specific coefficients for each target part of the work vehicle based on the basic coefficient calculated for each operation status information of the work vehicle at attention calculated in step S6 and the part-specific coefficient calculation formula stored in the part-specific coefficient calculation formula table (74) (see FIG. 5).

[0092] [This text appears to be a part of the text and is likely part of the text.]

[0093] Next, the virtual operating time calculation unit (53D) for each part within the virtual operating time calculation unit (53) calculates the virtual operating time for each target part of the work vehicle, and stores the calculated virtual operating time, the count for each part used to calculate it, and the actual operating time during the work period in the virtual operating time memory unit (76) in relation to the work period, work type, and unit (step S8).

[0094] Specifically, the virtual operating time calculation unit (53D) calculates the virtual operating time for each part by multiplying the actual operating time (h) of the work vehicle calculated in step S1 by the part-specific coefficient of the target part calculated in step S8 for each target part of the work vehicle.

[0095] In the case of [unclear],

[0096] Below, examples of the contents of the part table (72), basic coefficient table (73), and part-specific coefficient calculation formula table (74) when the type is a predetermined type of combine are explained in more detail. Here, the predetermined type is, for example, YH4444.

[0097] FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram showing a specific example of a part table (72) for type YH4444. In the example of FIG. 16, for type YH4444, six parts are set as target parts: a threshing part, a cutting part, a grain tank part (storage part), a driving part, an engine cooling system, and an engine fuel system.

[0098] FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram showing a specific example of a basic coefficient table (73) for type YH4444. In the example of FIG. 17, for type YH4444, the ratio [%] of the cumulative value of the threshing clutch-on time to the actual operating time, the ratio [%] of the cumulative value of the cutting clutch-on time to the actual operating time, the ratio [%] of the cumulative value of the auger clutch-on time to the actual operating time, the average value of the engine load rate, the average value of the amount of slag expelled, the average value of the vehicle speed, the average value of the water temperature, and the average value of the fuel consumption rate are each set as operating situation information for calculating 8 basic coefficients A to H.

[0099] The ratio of the accumulated values ​​of threshing, cutting, and auger clutch-on time to the actual operating time is the ratio of the accumulated values ​​of threshing, cutting, and auger clutch-on time during a specified period to the actual operating time during a specified period, respectively.

[0100] The source information for the 8 operating situation information is, respectively, threshing clutch on / off information, harvesting clutch on / off information, auger clutch on / off information, engine load rate, cargo weight, vehicle speed, water temperature, and fuel consumption rate.

[0101] Threshing clutch on / off information, mowing clutch on / off information, and auger clutch on / off information indicate whether the threshing clutch, mowing clutch, and auger clutch are, respectively, ON or OFF. The engine load ratio is, for example, the ratio of the deviation between the actual fuel injection amount and the no-load fuel injection amount to the deviation between the maximum fuel injection amount and the no-load fuel injection amount.

[0102] The discharge amount is the discharge amount per predetermined hour conveyed by the discharge conveying device of the combine. The vehicle speed is the vehicle speed of the combine. The water temperature is the temperature of the engine coolant. The fuel consumption rate is the fuel consumption amount per predetermined hour.

[0103] FIG. 18 is a schematic diagram showing a specific example of a table (74) for calculating coefficients by part for type YH4444.

[0104] According to the example in Fig. 18, the coefficient for each part of the threshing section is the product of a basic coefficient A based on the ratio of the cumulative value of the threshing clutch-on time to the actual operating time, a basic coefficient D based on the average value of the engine load rate, and a basic coefficient E based on the average value of the threshing volume.

[0105] The coefficient for each part of the harvesting unit is the product of a basic coefficient B based on the ratio of the accumulated harvesting clutch-on time to the actual operating time, a basic coefficient E based on the average harvest amount, and a basic coefficient F based on the average vehicle speed.

[0106] The coefficient for each part of the grain tank section is the product of a basic coefficient C based on the ratio of the accumulated value of the auger clutch-on time to the actual operating time and a basic coefficient E based on the average value of the discharge amount.

[0107] The coefficient for each part of the driving part is the product of the basic coefficient D based on the average value of the engine load rate and the basic coefficient F based on the average value of the vehicle speed.

[0108] The component coefficient for the engine cooling system is the base coefficient G, which is based on the average water temperature.

[0109] The coefficient for each part of the engine fuel system is the basic coefficient H, which is based on the average value of the fuel consumption rate.

[0110] Next, the sequence of steps for an operator of a service terminal (3) (hereinafter referred to as the terminal operator) to obtain the virtual operating time of each target part in a work vehicle of a specific type and number will be explained.

[0111] The terminal operator accesses the Web site provided by the server (4) by operating the service terminal (3) and obtains a Web page. Then, logs in on the Web page. As a result, an aggregation condition input screen (80), such as shown in FIG. 19, is displayed on the service terminal (3).

[0112] In the aggregation condition input screen (80), for example, a format input section (81), a number input section (82), an output year input section (period input section) (83), a comparison number input section (84), an OK button (85), and an exit button (86) are displayed.

[0113] The terminal operator inputs the desired format (hereinafter referred to as the target format), the number (hereinafter referred to as the target number), and the output year (hereinafter referred to as the target output year) into the format input section (81), the number input section (82), and the output year input section (83). Additionally, if necessary, the operator inputs the number to be compared with the target number (hereinafter referred to as the comparison number) into the comparison number input section (84). Afterward, the operator clicks the OK button (85). By doing so, the aggregation conditions input by the terminal operator are transmitted to the server (4).

[0114] When the virtual operating time providing unit (54) of the server (4) receives an aggregation condition input by a terminal operator, it obtains the actual operating time, counts by part, and virtual time by part in the target output year of the target machine number from the virtual operating time memory unit (76). If a comparison machine number is included in the aggregation condition, the virtual operating time providing unit (54) obtains the actual operating time, counts by part, and virtual time by part in the target output year of the comparison machine number from the virtual operating time memory unit (76). Then, the virtual operating time providing unit (54) generates an output screen (90) such as that shown in FIG. 20, for example, and provides it to the service terminal (3). As a result, the output screen (90) is displayed on the service terminal (3). In addition, FIG. 20 shows an example of an output screen when the target format is the aforementioned YH1111, the target number is 2A1, and the comparison numbers are 2A2 and 2A3.

[0115] On the output screen (90), for each target unit and comparison unit, the type, actual operating time during the period, and virtual time by part are displayed. Through the output screen (90), the terminal operator can recognize the virtual operating time, which includes usage conditions added to the actual operating time, for each target part. As a result, the terminal operator can appropriately set the maintenance time, part replacement time, etc., for each target part.

[0116] Additionally, the virtual operating time providing unit (54) may display an output screen (100) as shown in FIG. 21. The output screen (100) includes a first graph (101), a second graph (102), a back button (103), etc. Additionally, FIG. 21 shows an example of an output screen when the target format is the aforementioned YH4444 and the target number is 999999.

[0117] The first graph (101) is a radar chart for comparing the average coefficients per part (= 1) when all basic coefficients for the target type are 1 with the coefficients per part in the target output year of the target machine. The solid line graph represents the average coefficients per part (= 1), and the dashed line graph represents the coefficients per part of the target machine. Through the first graph (101), the terminal operator can determine whether the usage method of the target machine is harsh or lenient compared to the average usage method of the entire target type for each target part. By doing so, the terminal operator can appropriately set the maintenance time, part replacement time, etc. for each target part.

[0118] The second graph (102) is a bar graph showing the actual operating time and virtual operating time by part in the target output year of the target machine. Through the second graph (102), the terminal operator can recognize the virtual operating time, which includes usage conditions added to the actual operating time, for each target part. As a result, the terminal operator can appropriately set the maintenance time, part replacement time, etc., for each target part.

[0119] Although embodiments of the invention have been described above, the invention may be implemented in other forms.

[0120] In the above-described embodiment, the virtual operating time calculation unit (53) calculates the average and standard deviation of the operating status information after performing the first calculation target removal process (step S3 of FIG. 9A) and the second calculation target removal process (step S4 of FIG. 9A). However, the virtual operating time calculation unit (53) may calculate the average and standard deviation of the operating status information without performing either or both of the first calculation target removal process and the second calculation target removal process.

[0121] [2] Configuration of the maintenance management system

[0122] Next, the configuration of the maintenance management system (200) of the work machine related to the present embodiment (hereinafter simply referred to as the “maintenance management system (200)”) will be described.

[0123] The maintenance management system (200) is a system that takes one of the multiple work machines as a target (target work machine) and performs management related to the maintenance of the target work machine. Here, the maintenance management system (200) performs management related to the maintenance of the target work machine by outputting information regarding the maintenance timing as maintenance information. In addition, in this embodiment, the maintenance management system (200) uses the virtual operating time calculated by the virtual operating time calculation device (time calculation unit (202)) described above in order to determine the maintenance timing.

[0124] The term “work machine” as used in this disclosure refers to various types of work machines, and as an example, work vehicles (2) such as combines (2A), tractors (2B), and rice transplanters (2C). In short, the work machine includes work vehicles (2). The work machine is not limited to “vehicles” such as combines (2A), tractors (2B), and rice transplanters (2C), but may be, for example, work vehicles such as drones for spraying pesticides. Furthermore, it is not mandatory for the work machine to be equipped with an engine, and the work machine may be equipped with a motor instead of an engine as a power source, for example.

[0125] Additionally, the “target work machine” referred to in this disclosure is a work machine that is subject to maintenance management by the maintenance management system (200) among such work machines. In particular, in this embodiment, the maintenance management system (200) determines the maintenance timing using the virtual operating time calculated by the virtual operating time calculation device described above. Therefore, the “focused work vehicle” when calculating the virtual operating time by focusing on a certain work vehicle (focused work vehicle) described in the column “[1] Virtual operating time calculation device” is the same as the “target work machine.” Therefore, below, the work machine and the target work machine will also be described using the same reference numeral (2) as the work vehicle.

[0126] "Maintenance" as used in this disclosure refers to work performed on a work machine (2) at a service base (service point), etc., and includes, for example, maintenance, upkeep, repair, inspection, adjustment, polishing, cleaning, function check, repair, and replacement of parts of machinery. In order to operate the work machine (2), it is desirable to perform appropriate maintenance on the work machine (2) at appropriate times. Therefore, the maintenance management system (200) related to this embodiment outputs maintenance information regarding "maintenance timing," such as a time when such maintenance can be recommended or a time when maintenance is essential. Accordingly, the time for replacing parts, etc., described in the column of "[1] Virtual operating time calculation device," is included in the "maintenance timing."

[0127] In addition, in this embodiment, the work machine (2), such as the target work machine (2), includes a plurality of management units. The "management unit" referred to in this disclosure means a unit that is subject to maintenance management by the maintenance management system (200), and, for example, may be a part (target part) of the work machine (2) or a component part (target part) that further subdivides the part. As an example, if the work machine (2) is a combine (2A), the work machine (2) includes six parts such as an engine, a driving part, a cutting part, a threshing part, a grain tank part (storage part), and electrical parts. Therefore, if the management unit is a part, the work machine (2) made of a combine (2A) includes the above six management units.

[0128] In this embodiment, as an example, the target work machine (2) has multiple parts, each comprising one or more component parts. The management unit and the component parts correspond one-to-one. In other words, in this embodiment, the "management unit" is a "component part" that further subdivides the "part." For example, if the work machine (2) is a combine (2A), the "driving part," which is one of the parts, includes six component parts such as a crawler, a bearing, a seal, part A, part B, and part C. However, it is not mandatory for all parts included in the work machine (2) to include multiple component parts, and depending on the part, it may include only one component part.

[0129] And, the maintenance management system (200) related to the present embodiment outputs maintenance information regarding the maintenance time for at least one of the multiple management units using the virtual operating time for each management unit. The “virtual operating time for each management unit” is, as an example, the “virtual operating time for each target part” calculated by the part-specific virtual operating time calculation unit (53D) described in the column of “[1] Virtual operating time calculation device”. In short, when the management unit is a part (target part), the virtual operating time for each part (target part) becomes the virtual operating time for each management unit (part-specific virtual time).

[0130] In this embodiment, as described above, since the management unit is a component, the virtual operating time for each component is used for the output of maintenance information regarding the maintenance timing. However, in this case, the same (common) virtual operating time may be used between two or more components. That is, for example, the virtual operating time may be common among four components, such as "belt," "filter," "part A," and "part B," which are included in the part called "engine." In short, even if it is a virtual operating time for each management unit, it may be common for the part to which the component as the management unit belongs, and in this case, the virtual operating time for each component (management unit) has the same meaning as the virtual operating time for each part.

[0131] Specifically, the maintenance management system (200) related to the present embodiment is equipped with an acquisition unit (201) and an output unit (203), as shown in FIG. 22. The acquisition unit (201) acquires the actual operating time of a target work machine (2) that includes a plurality of management units. The output unit (203) outputs maintenance information regarding the maintenance time for at least one of the plurality of management units using the virtual operating time for each management unit derived from the actual operating time. In the present embodiment, as an example, the acquisition unit (201) and the output unit (203) are formed in a server (4) capable of communicating with each of the work machine (work vehicle) (2) and the service terminal (3).

[0132] According to this configuration, maintenance information regarding the maintenance time is output using the virtual operating time for each management unit derived from the actual operating time of the target work machine (2), so the appropriate maintenance time (including the time for parts replacement) can be recognized by the maintenance information. In short, since the virtual operating time is a time that incorporates, for example, the usage situation of the target work machine into the actual operating time, it is easier to reflect a more appropriate maintenance time for the target work machine (2) in the maintenance information compared to when maintenance information is output using the actual operating time. Furthermore, since the maintenance information is information regarding the maintenance time for at least one of the multiple management units, it is possible to set the maintenance time by distinguishing each management unit even among one target work machine (2). Therefore, compared to the case where a single maintenance time appears for the entire target work machine (2) without distinction between management units, the maintenance information makes it possible to recognize a more appropriate and accurate maintenance time for each management unit (part, etc.). As a result, the maintenance management system (200) related to this embodiment has the advantage of making it easy to accurately set the maintenance time for each part of the work machine (2).

[0133] In addition, in this embodiment, since the management unit and the component correspond one-to-one, it is possible to set the maintenance time by distinguishing each component even among one target work machine (2). Therefore, according to the maintenance management system (200), it becomes easier to accurately set the maintenance time for each component of the work machine (2).

[0134] The “actual operating time” referred to in the present disclosure is the time during which the target work machine is actually operating, and is basically the operating time measured by the target work machine. For example, the actual operating time is the accumulated value of the time from when the engine of the target work machine is turned on until it is turned off, measured by the hour meter (22) described in the column of “[1] Virtual operating time calculation device” (total actual operating time), in short, the hour meter value. In addition, the actual operating time may be the accumulated value of the time during which a specific part (electrical component, etc.) other than the engine of the target work machine is operating, or the accumulated value of the time during which the power key of the target work machine is turned on until it is turned off. In addition, the actual operating time may be the accumulated value of the time during which at least one specific part (engine, driving part, cutting part, threshing part, grain tank part or electrical component, etc.) of the target work machine is operating.

[0135] The “virtual operating time” referred to in the present disclosure is a virtual operating time for each management unit of a target work machine derived from the actual operating time of the target work machine acquired by the acquisition unit (201). In short, the virtual operating time is a virtual time derived from the actual operating time, and may be the same as or different from the actual operating time.

[0136] In this embodiment, as an example, the virtual operating time is calculated by a virtual operating time calculation device (time calculation unit (202)), but it is not limited to this example and may be derived from the actual operating time by appropriate means. For example, if the actual operating time and the virtual operating time are pre-corrected in the form of a table for each management unit, it is possible to derive the virtual operating time from the actual operating time by using this correspondence relationship. In short, if the correspondence relationship between the actual operating time and the virtual operating time is already known and is pre-stored in a memory unit (64), etc., it is possible to derive the virtual operating time corresponding to the actual operating time from the actual operating time. Alternatively, if the basic coefficients for the target work machine or the coefficients by part are pre-stored in a memory unit (64), etc., it is possible to derive the virtual operating time from the actual operating time by using these coefficients. In short, if the coefficients for calculating the virtual operating time from the actual operating time are already known, it is possible to derive the virtual operating time by multiplying the actual operating time by these coefficients.

[0137] Also, in the following description, the attention period related to the calculation of virtual operating time is defined as the entire period after the start of use of the target work machine, with the start of use of the target work machine as the starting point. In other words, the actual operating time and virtual operating time within the attention period are both equivalent to the total operating time of the target work machine, and the hour meter value measured by the hour meter (22) becomes the actual operating time within the attention period.

[0138] Hereinafter, the configuration of the maintenance management system (200) related to the present embodiment will be described in more detail.

[0139] As shown in FIG. 22, the maintenance management system (200) additionally includes a time calculation unit (202) in addition to the acquisition unit (201) and the output unit (203). In this embodiment, as an example, the time calculation unit (202) is also formed in the server (4) in the same way as the acquisition unit (201) and the output unit (203). In other words, the maintenance management system (200) is realized by the server (4). In FIG. 22, the components of the server (4) are shown only as the communication unit (61), operation display unit (62), operation unit (63), and memory unit (64) in addition to the acquisition unit (201), the time calculation unit (202), and the output unit (203), and the illustration of other components is omitted. Likewise, in FIG. 22, only the communication unit (24) and the display unit (25) are shown as components of the work machine (work vehicle) (2), and only the display (42) and the communication unit (44) are shown as components of the service terminal (3), and the illustration of other components is omitted.

[0140] In this embodiment, the acquisition unit (201) is implemented by one function of the information acquisition unit (52) in the server control unit (50). In short, when the information acquisition unit (52) receives operation information from the work vehicle (2), the acquisition unit (201) acquires the actual operation time by the hour meter value included in the operation information. More specifically, since vehicle-side information consisting of vehicle identification information, location information at each time, and operation information is transmitted from the target work machine (work vehicle) (2) to the server (4), the acquisition unit (201) acquires the actual operation time by the hour meter value included in the operation information.

[0141] In addition, in this embodiment, the time calculation unit (202) is implemented by one function of the virtual operating time calculation unit (53) in the server control unit (50). In short, by the virtual operating time calculation unit (53) calculating the virtual operating time for the target part of the target work vehicle, the time calculation unit (202) calculates the virtual operating time for each management unit of the target work machine (target work vehicle) (2). Strictly speaking, in this embodiment, the "management unit" is a "component," so by the virtual operating time calculation unit (53) calculating the virtual operating time for each component, the time calculation unit (202) calculates the virtual operating time for each management unit (component) of the target work machine (2). Thus, the maintenance management system (200) can obtain the virtual operating time for each management unit by acquiring the actual operating time.

[0142] In addition, in this embodiment, the output unit (203) is implemented by one function of the virtual operating time providing unit (54) in the server control unit (50). In short, the virtual operating time providing unit (54) generates an output screen according to conditions input from the service terminal (3) and displays the output screen, thereby the output unit (203) outputs maintenance information regarding the maintenance time. In short, the output unit (203) in this embodiment outputs maintenance information by displaying a screen, such as an output screen D1 (see FIG. 26) containing maintenance information, on a display device. The output screen D1 containing maintenance information is displayed on a display device, for example, the display (42) of the service terminal (3), the operation display unit (62) of the server (4), or the display unit (25) of the work machine (2). The “screen” referred to in the present disclosure is an image (including images, text, graphs, icons, etc.) projected onto a display device. However, the mode of outputting maintenance information by the output unit (203) is not limited to display on the display device, but includes, for example, the lighting state of a lamp, output of sound (including voice), printing, recording on a recording medium including a memory unit (64), and transmission to an external terminal via communication.

[0143] The output unit (203) includes a generation unit (204), as shown in FIG. 22. The generation unit (204) generates maintenance information and further generates an output screen D1, etc., containing the maintenance information. In short, the generation unit (204) generates maintenance information regarding the maintenance time for at least one of the multiple management units by using a virtual operating time for each management unit derived from the actual operating time. Here, the virtual operating time for each management unit used by the generation unit (204) to generate maintenance information is the virtual operating time for each component calculated by the time calculation unit (202). The output unit (203) outputs the maintenance information generated by the generation unit (204).

[0144] The output unit (203) includes a generation unit (204), as shown in FIG. 22. The generation unit (204) generates maintenance information and further generates a screen, such as an output screen D1, that includes the maintenance information. In short, the generation unit (204) generates maintenance information regarding the maintenance time for at least one of the multiple management units by using a virtual operating time for each management unit derived from the actual operating time. Here, the virtual operating time for each management unit used by the generation unit (204) to generate the maintenance information is the virtual operating time for each component calculated by the time calculation unit (202). The output unit (203) outputs the maintenance information generated by the generation unit (204).

[0145] In this embodiment, the maintenance management system (200) is primarily composed of a computer system (here, a server (4)) including one or more memories and one or more processors. That is, each function of the maintenance management system (200) is realized by one or more processors executing a program recorded in one or more memories of the computer system. The program may be recorded in memory in advance, provided via a telecommunications line such as the internet, or provided by being recorded on a non-transient recording medium such as a memory card.

[0146] [3] Operation of the maintenance management system

[0147] Next, the operation of the maintenance management system (200) related to the present embodiment will be explained with reference to FIGS. 23 to 29. The maintenance management method for a work machine related to the present embodiment is implemented by the maintenance management system (200) as an example. Therefore, the operation of the maintenance management system (200) described below corresponds to the maintenance management method for a work machine. In addition, the maintenance management program for a work machine related to the present embodiment is a program for executing the maintenance management method for a work machine on one or more processors.

[0148] First, as a prerequisite, the maintenance management system (200) stores the maintenance table (T1) (see FIG. 23) and the reference source table (T2) (see FIG. 24) in advance in the memory (64) of the server (4).

[0149] FIG. 23 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the contents of a maintenance table (T1). The maintenance table (T1) is information indicating the recommended maintenance operating time for each management unit. Such a maintenance table (T1) is pre-set for each type of work machine (2). The "recommended maintenance operating time" referred to in this disclosure is the operating time during which maintenance is recommended to be performed. Therefore, for a standard work machine (2), maintenance is recommended when the operating time (actual operating time) reaches the recommended maintenance operating time. In particular, in this embodiment, the recommended maintenance operating time is distinguished according to the type of maintenance recommended to be performed. As an example, the recommended maintenance operating time is set so as to be distinguishable for two types of maintenance: maintenance that does not involve the replacement of parts (component parts) (inspection, adjustment, or cleaning, etc.) and maintenance that involves the replacement of parts.

[0150] In this embodiment, as an example, since the management unit is a component that further subdivides the part, the recommended maintenance operating time is set for each component in the maintenance table (T1). In the maintenance table (T1), etc., the part is indicated in the “Major Classification” column and the component is indicated in the “Inspection Point” column. In short, in the maintenance table (T1), etc., the recommended maintenance operating time is set for each management unit (component) in a grouped state by part. In the example of FIG. 23, the maintenance table (T1) is a table in the form of a so-called score sheet, in which a mark is attached to the position corresponding to the “Operating Time” column for each management unit (component). In short, in the maintenance table (T1), the recommended maintenance operating time is indicated by attaching a first mark (M1) or a second mark (M2) to a position corresponding to the recommended maintenance operating time in the "Operating Time" column, where the horizontal axis is the time axis. Here, the first mark (M1), which is a circle, indicates the recommended maintenance operating time related to maintenance that does not involve parts replacement (inspection, adjustment, or cleaning, etc.), and the second mark (M2), which is a triangle, indicates the recommended maintenance operating time related to maintenance that involves parts replacement.

[0151] In the example of FIG. 23, for the type to which the target work machine (2) belongs, six parts are set as target parts (major classifications): “engine,” “driving part,” “harvesting part,” “threshing part,” “grain tank part,” and “electrical parts.” In FIG. 23 and others, the “parts” of “harvesting part,” “threshing part,” and “grain tank part” are omitted. Additionally, four component parts are set for the “engine”: “belt,” “filter,” “part A,” and “part B,” and six component parts are set for the “driving part”: “crawler,” “bearing,” “seal,” “part A,” “part B,” and “part C.” In the “harvesting section,” five components are set up, namely “belt,” “chain,” “part A,” “part B,” and “part C,” and in the “threshing section,” five components are set up, namely “belt,” “chain,” “part A,” “part B,” and “part C.” In the “grain tank section,” three components are set up, namely “belt,” “part A,” and “part B,” and in the “electrical section,” three components are set up, namely “part A,” “part B,” and “part C.”

[0152] As such, in the example of FIG. 23, recommended maintenance operating times are individually set for each of the total 26 components (management units) classified into six parts. For example, for the component called "belt" of the "engine," 100 h (hours), 200 h, 300 h, 400 h, 600 h, 700 h, and 800 h are each set as recommended maintenance operating times related to maintenance that does not involve replacement of parts. Likewise, for the component called "belt" of the "engine," 500 h is set as recommended maintenance operating times related to maintenance that involves replacement of parts. Also, for example, for the component called "seal" of the "running part," 200 h, 400 h, and 800 h are each set as recommended maintenance operating times related to maintenance that does not involve replacement of parts. Likewise, for the component called the "seal" of the "running part," 600 h is set as the recommended operating time for maintenance involving the replacement of the part. Here, "Part A" and "Part B," etc., are designations used to distinguish components within each part, and there is no correlation between different parts. For example, "Part A" of the engine and "Part A" of the running part cannot be considered the same type of component.

[0153] FIG. 24 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the contents of a reference source table (T2). The reference source table (T2) is information indicating a reference source when determining the maintenance timing for each management unit. Such a reference source table (T2) is pre-set for each type of work machine (2). The "reference source" referred to in this disclosure is an operating time used when generating maintenance information indicating the maintenance timing, and is broadly distinguished into actual operating time and virtual operating time. Furthermore, virtual operating time is classified into virtual operating time for each management unit. In this embodiment, the management unit is a component, but the virtual operating time is common for the part to which the component as a management unit belongs; in other words, the virtual operating time for each component (management unit) has the same meaning as the virtual operating time for each part. For this reason, for example, regarding the four components "belt," "filter," "part A," and "part B" included in the part called "engine," the reference source is the virtual operating time of the engine (indicated as "virtual operating time-engine" in FIG. 24). Therefore, for these management units (components), the virtual operating time of the engine is used.

[0154] On the other hand, the reference source for "Part C" of the "driving unit," "Part B" and "Part C" of the "threshing unit," and "Part A," "Part B" and "Part C" of the "electrical parts" is actual operating time. Therefore, for these management units (component parts), actual operating time, not virtual operating time, is used when determining the maintenance time. In short, in this example, the virtual operating time of the "electrical parts" is not used to determine the maintenance time.

[0155] The maintenance management system (200) operates to output information regarding the maintenance time as maintenance information, in a state where the maintenance table (T1) and reference source table (T2) described above are prepared and stored in the memory unit (64). That is, the maintenance management system (200) first acquires the actual operating time for the target work machine (2) from the acquisition unit (201) and derives the virtual operating time from this actual operating time. In particular, in this embodiment, the maintenance management system (200) calculates the virtual operating time for each part by a virtual operating time calculation device (time calculation unit (202)) based on the actual operating time. Thus, the maintenance management system (200) obtains the actual operating time, the count for each part, and the virtual time for each part (in short, the virtual operating time for each part) for the target work machine (2).

[0156] The actual operating time, counts by part, and virtual time by part obtained in this way are organized into a virtual time table (T3) (see FIG. 25). FIG. 25 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the contents of the virtual time table (T3). The virtual time table (T3) is information that indicates counts (counts by part) and virtual operating time (virtual time by part) for each part (target part). Such a virtual time table (T3) is generated by a virtual operating time calculation device (time calculation unit (202)).

[0157] More specifically, the time calculation unit (202) calculates multiple operation status information for each of the multiple work machines (2) belonging to the attention type, based on operation information within the attention period of the multiple work machines (2) belonging to the attention type, including the target work machine (attention work vehicle) (2). Based on the multiple operation status information calculated for each of the multiple work machines (2) belonging to the attention type, the time calculation unit (202) calculates multiple types of basic coefficients for calculating the virtual operation time of the target work machine (2) by comparing the operation status information of each target work machine (2) with the operation status information of all the multiple work machines (2) belonging to the attention type. Here, the time calculation unit (202) assumes that for each operation status information of the target work machine (2), the distribution of said operation status information across multiple work machines (2) belonging to the target type follows a normal distribution, divides the distribution range of said normal distribution into multiple classes, determines the class to which the operation status information of the target work machine (2) belongs, and calculates a basic coefficient based on the determined class. Then, the time calculation unit (202) calculates a coefficient for each target part in the target work machine (2) based on multiple types of basic coefficients and a coefficient calculation formula for each target part that is pre-set for each target part. The time calculation unit (202) calculates a virtual operating time for each target part by multiplying the actual operating time by the coefficient for each target part.

[0158] In short, the time calculation unit (202) calculates a virtual operating time for each management unit of the target work machine (2) based on the result of comparing reference information and target information regarding the operating status of the target work machine (2), and the actual operating time of the target work machine (2). Here, the reference information is information regarding the operating status of a plurality of work machines (2) that have common attributes with the target work machine (2). In short, the time calculation unit (202) uses the operating status information of all the plurality of work machines (2) belonging to the target type as reference information, and compares this reference information with the operating status information (target information) of the target work machine (2). Then, the time calculation unit (202) calculates a virtual operating time for each part of the target work machine (2) using the result of comparing these reference information and target information, and the actual operating time of the target work machine (2). Thus, the virtual operating time for each management unit is calculated based on the circumstances of how the target work machine (2) operated compared to the work machine (2) of the same type, and the accuracy of the calculation of the virtual operating time for each management unit is improved.

[0159] In addition, in this embodiment, the result of comparing reference information and target information includes the relationship between the operating status of the target work machine (2) as target information and the distribution of the operating status of the plurality of work machines (2) as reference information. In short, since the virtual operating time for each management unit is calculated based on the position determination of the target work machine (2) within a normal distribution of the same type, the relative evaluation of the operating status of the target work machine (2) with respect to the average work machine (2) of the same type is accurately performed. As a result, the accuracy of calculating the virtual operating time for each management unit is further improved.

[0160] In the example of FIG. 25, the coefficients (coefficients by part) and virtual operating time (virtual time by part) for each of the five parts, "engine," "driving part," "harvesting part," "threshing part," and "grain tank part," are shown as a virtual time table (T3). In this embodiment, since the virtual operating time of the "electrical parts" is not used to determine the maintenance time, at least the virtual operating time (virtual time by part) for the five parts excluding the "electrical parts" is calculated by the time calculation unit (202). For example, when the actual operating time is 400 h, the coefficient for the engine is "1" and the virtual operating time is 400 h, and the coefficients for the driving part and the harvesting part are "0.8" and the virtual operating time is 320 h. Meanwhile, the coefficient of the threshing section is "1.2" and the virtual operating time is 480 h, and the coefficient of the grain tank section is "0.6" and the virtual operating time is 240 h.

[0161] When the virtual operating time is derived, the maintenance management system (200) then generates maintenance information regarding the maintenance time for at least one of the multiple management units by using the virtual operating time for each management unit in the generation unit (204). In this embodiment, the generation unit (204) generates maintenance information by comparing the information related to the virtual operating time for each management unit with the maintenance table (T1) (see FIG. 23). For example, the generation unit (204) generates an output screen D1 containing maintenance information, as illustrated in FIG. 26.

[0162] In the example of FIG. 26, the output screen D1 is a screen in which a graph G1 representing the virtual operating time for each management unit is superimposed on the maintenance recommended operating time (first mark (M1) and second mark (M2)) in the “Operating Time” column of the maintenance table (T1). For example, for each component of the “engine,” a graph G1 representing the virtual operating time of the engine, “400 h,” is superimposed on the “Operating Time” column. Likewise, for each component of the “harvesting unit,” a graph G1 representing the virtual operating time of the harvesting unit, “320 h,” is superimposed on the “Operating Time” column.

[0163] However, the operating time used at this time is defined in the reference source table (T2) (Fig. 24) as a reference source for each management unit (component), and virtual operating time is not applied to all management units. For example, for management units where the reference source is actual operating time, such as "Part B" and "Part C" of the "threshing unit," actual operating time is used instead of virtual operating time. Therefore, in the output screen D1, for management units where the reference source is actual operating time, such as "Part B" and "Part C" of the "threshing unit," graph G2 representing actual operating time is superimposed on the maintenance table (T1). Here, both graph G1 and graph G2 are bar graphs with the same scale as the time axis (horizontal axis) of the "operating time" column of the maintenance table (T1), and have numerical values ​​(numbers) representing values ​​(time) at the base (left end). In addition, the output screen D1 above displays graph G1 representing virtual operating time and graph G2 representing actual operating time without distinction.

[0164] The output screen D1, as described above, indicates the maintenance timing for each management unit by graph G1 or graph G2. In short, the maintenance timing for each management unit is indicated by graph G1 or graph G2, which is superimposed on the first mark (M1) and the second mark (M2) representing the recommended maintenance operating time in the maintenance table (T1). For example, in the case of the "belt" of the "engine," the leading edge (right edge) of graph G1, which represents the virtual operating time (400 h), is superimposed on the first mark (M1) set to 400 h; thus, the arrival of the maintenance timing that does not involve the replacement of parts is indicated by this graph G1. Also, if it is "Part A" of the "harvesting unit," the leading edge of graph G1, which represents the virtual operating time (320 h), overlaps with the second mark (M2) set to 300 h, so the arrival of the maintenance time involving part replacement is indicated by this graph G1. Also, if it is "Part C" of the "driving unit," the leading edge of graph G2, which represents the actual operating time (400 h), overlaps with the second mark (M2) set to 400 h, so the arrival of the maintenance time involving part replacement is indicated by this graph G2. In short, the output screen D1 contains maintenance information regarding the maintenance time.

[0165] When the output unit (203) generates the output screen D1 from the generation unit (204), the output screen D1 is displayed on a display device, such as, for example, the display (42) of the service terminal (3), the operation display unit (62) of the server (4), or the display unit (25) of the work machine (2). By the output screen D1 displayed on the display (42) of the service terminal (3), the terminal operator can easily compare the recommended maintenance operating time with the virtual operating time, which incorporates usage conditions into the actual operating time, for each management unit (component). As a result, the terminal operator can appropriately recognize the maintenance time for each component. However, the lead lines and reference symbols shown in FIG. 26, etc., within the output screen are attached for illustrative purposes and are not displayed on the display device.

[0166] In short, in this embodiment, maintenance information is information that indicates the timing of maintenance using virtual operating time instead of actual operating time. For example, in the output screen D1, for management units whose reference source is virtual operating time, such as each component of the "harvesting unit," the timing of maintenance is indicated by a graph G1 that represents virtual operating time instead of actual operating time. Therefore, according to such maintenance information (output screen D1 containing it), it becomes possible to properly recognize the timing of maintenance for each component by virtual operating time, which incorporates usage conditions into actual operating time.

[0167] In addition, in this embodiment, the maintenance information includes information indicating the relative relationship between the recommended maintenance operating time and the virtual operating time for at least one management unit. The output unit (203) outputs at least the relative relationship in a manner that can be displayed on a display device. For example, in the output screen D1, the relative relationship between the recommended maintenance operating time and the virtual operating time is indicated by superimposing a graph G1, which indicates the virtual operating time, on the recommended maintenance operating time of the maintenance table (T1). Accordingly, with such maintenance information (output screen D1 including the information), it becomes possible to appropriately recognize the maintenance timing for each component.

[0168] In addition, in this embodiment, the output unit (203) displays the recommended maintenance operating time and the virtual operating time. For example, in the output screen D1, the recommended maintenance operating time and the virtual operating time are displayed by overlapping the recommended maintenance operating time of the maintenance table (T1) with a graph G1 representing the virtual operating time. Accordingly, with such maintenance information (output screen D1 including it), it is easy to compare the recommended maintenance operating time and the virtual operating time, making it easier to recognize the maintenance timing for each component more appropriately.

[0169] In addition, in this embodiment, the output unit (203) may display an output screen D2 as shown in FIG. 27 on the display device instead of the output screen D1 of FIG. 26. In the example of FIG. 27, the output screen D2 has a “tasks requiring execution” column in addition to the output screen D1 of FIG. 26. In the “tasks requiring execution” column, the contents of maintenance for which the arrival of the maintenance time is detected for each management unit are displayed. The detection of whether the maintenance time has arrived is realized by comparing a graph G1 representing virtual operating time or a graph G2 representing actual operating time with the recommended operating time for maintenance in the maintenance table (T1). Here, regarding the maintenance with the closest recommended operating time tracing back from the virtual or actual operating time point—in other words, the most recent maintenance—it is determined that the maintenance time has arrived. If no corresponding maintenance exists, the "Tasks Required" column is marked with a "-".

[0170] For example, if it is the "belt" of the "engine," the time for maintenance that does not involve part replacement has arrived, so the details of the corresponding maintenance (inspection, repair, cleaning) are displayed in the "Work required" column. Also, if it is "part C" of the "running part," the time for maintenance that involves part replacement has arrived, so the details of the corresponding maintenance (replacement) are displayed in the "Work required" column. In FIG. 27, the marks related to the maintenance for which the arrival of the maintenance time has been detected (first mark (M1) or second mark (M2)) are surrounded by a dotted line, but in the actual output screen D2, the marks may be highlighted as with this dotted line or may not be highlighted. According to the output screen D2 as shown in FIG. 27, it becomes easier to recognize the maintenance time for each component more appropriately.

[0171] In addition, in this embodiment, the output unit (203) may display an output screen D3 as shown in FIG. 28 on the display device instead of the output screen D1 of FIG. 26. In the example of FIG. 28, the output screen D3 has, in addition to the output screen D1 of FIG. 26, a “next inspection time” column, a “next part replacement time” column, a “count” column, and a “actual operating time equivalent” column. In the “next inspection time” column, the recommended timing for the next maintenance is displayed for maintenance that does not involve the replacement of parts for each management unit. In the “next part replacement time” column, the recommended timing for the next maintenance is displayed for maintenance that involves the replacement of parts for each management unit. In the “count” column, the count (part-specific count) related to the reference source when determining the maintenance time is displayed for each management unit. If the reference source is actual operating time, the "Count" column is marked with a "-". The "Equivalent to Actual Operating Time" column displays the time until the recommended timing for the next maintenance, converted into actual operating time. The "Equivalent to Actual Operating Time" column is divided into the "Time Until Next Inspection" column, corresponding to the "Next Inspection Time," and the "Time Until Next Parts Replacement" column, corresponding to the "Next Parts Replacement Time."

[0172] The “next maintenance” referred to in this disclosure is determined from the relative relationship between the reference point and the maintenance recommended operating time in the maintenance table (T1), when the reference point is set as the reference point for virtual operating time or actual operating time. For example, the maintenance recommended operating time is after the reference point, and the maintenance that occurs for the first time (in other words, closest to the reference point) becomes the next maintenance. Here, as an example, the recommended timing for the next maintenance displayed in the “next inspection time” and “next part replacement time” columns is represented by the maintenance recommended operating time in the maintenance table (T1). For example, if it is “Part C” of the “driving part,” the “next inspection time” is “500 h” corresponding to the first mark (M1), and the “next part replacement time” is “600 h” corresponding to the second mark (M2).

[0173] In the “Coefficient” column, coefficients related to the reference source (coefficients by part) are displayed for each management unit by referring to the reference source table (T2) and the virtual time table (T3). However, the coefficients displayed in the “Coefficient” column may be calculated by dividing the virtual operating time by the actual operating time for each management unit.

[0174] Additionally, the time until the recommended timing for the next maintenance, displayed in the “Actual Operating Time Equivalent” column, is represented as the difference between the recommended operating time for maintenance related to the “Next Maintenance” and the reference point. However, since a simple difference between the recommended operating time for maintenance and the reference point would result in a mixture of virtual operating time and actual operating time, the difference is converted into actual operating time using the coefficient in the “Coefficient” column and displayed in the “Actual Operating Time Equivalent” column. For example, in the case of “Part C” of the “Driving Unit,” the value (225 h) obtained by dividing the difference (180 h) between the next inspection time (500 h) and the virtual operating time (320 h) at the reference point by the coefficient (0.8) becomes the “Time Until Next Inspection.”

[0175] That is, in this embodiment, the maintenance information includes information indicating the recommended timing for the next maintenance for at least one management unit. The information indicating the recommended timing for the next maintenance includes the display of the "next inspection time," the "next part replacement time," and the "equivalent to actual operating time" column. Furthermore, regarding the indication of the recommended timing for the next maintenance, it is not limited to the time until the recommended timing for maintenance in the "equivalent to actual operating time" column (remaining time), but may also be the date (Month Y, Day X) when the recommended timing for the next maintenance is expected to arrive. In this way, according to the output screen D3 as shown in FIG. 28, it is possible to indicate how many hours of actual operating time will elapse before maintenance is required for each component, and it becomes easier to properly recognize the time until the next maintenance.

[0176] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the recommended timing is indicated by the actual operating time. In short, as shown in the "Actual Operating Time Equivalent" column above, the recommended timing for the next maintenance is converted into actual operating time. This makes it easier to more accurately recognize the time until the next maintenance for each component.

[0177] Which of the output screens D1, D2, and D3 is to be displayed may be selected arbitrarily. For example, the output screens D1, D2, and D3 may be switched by the operation of a terminal operator viewing the output screens D1, D2, and D3. Of course, the terminal operator may also recognize the task that needs to be performed from the output screen D1 shown in FIG. 26. Likewise, the terminal operator may also recognize the time until the next maintenance from the output screen D1 shown in FIG. 26.

[0178] Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 29, an example of a maintenance management method for a work machine (2) implemented by a maintenance management system (200) (server (4)) will be described. For example, the maintenance management method is initiated by the operation of a specific user (including a terminal operator) on the service terminal (3), the work machine (2), or the server (4). Alternatively, the maintenance management method may be initiated periodically.

[0179] In step S11, the maintenance management system (200) (server (4)) acquires the actual operating time of the target work machine (2) from the acquisition unit (201). Specifically, the acquisition unit (201) receives vehicle-side information including operation information from the target work machine (2) and acquires the actual operating time using the hour meter value included in the operation information.

[0180] In step S12, the maintenance management system (200) (server (4)) calculates the virtual operating time of the target work machine (2) based on the actual operating time in the time calculation unit (202). At this time, the time calculation unit (202) calculates the virtual operating time for each part.

[0181] In step S13, the maintenance management system (200) (server (4)) superimposes the virtual operating time of the target work machine (2) calculated in the output unit (203) (generating unit (204)) onto the maintenance table (T1). At this time, the generating unit (204) generates an output screen D1 by superimposing a graph G1 representing the virtual operating time for each management unit onto the maintenance table (T1).

[0182] In step S14, the maintenance management system (200) (server (4)) determines whether there is a task that needs to be performed in the output unit (203) (generating unit (204)). The “task that needs to be performed” mentioned here refers to maintenance for which the arrival of the maintenance time is detected, and corresponds to the information displayed in the “task that needs to be performed” column of the output screen D2 of FIG. 27. In short, the generating unit (204) determines whether there is a task that needs to be performed (maintenance for which the arrival of the maintenance time is detected) by comparing the graph G1 representing virtual operating time or the graph G2 representing actual operating time with the recommended operating time for maintenance in the maintenance table (T1).

[0183] In step S14, if it is determined that there is work that needs to be performed (S14: Yes), the process proceeds to step S15. On the other hand, if it is determined that there is no work that needs to be performed (S14: No), the process proceeds to step S16.

[0184] In step S15, the maintenance management system (200) (server (4)) extracts tasks that need to be performed for each management unit from the output unit (203) (creation unit (204)). In short, for the maintenance determined to be tasks that need to be performed in step S14, the creation unit (204) extracts the content of this maintenance and the management unit.

[0185] In step S16, the maintenance management system (200) (server (4)) calculates the time until the next maintenance in the output unit (203) (generating unit (204)). The “time until the next maintenance” mentioned here refers to the time (remaining time) until the recommended timing for the next maintenance, and corresponds to the information displayed in the “actual operating time equivalent” column of the output screen D3 of FIG. 28. In short, the generating unit (204) calculates the time until the next maintenance by the difference between the recommended operating time for maintenance related to the “next maintenance” and the reference time.

[0186] In step S17, the maintenance management system (200) (server (4)) converts the time to the next maintenance calculated in step S16 into actual operating time at the output unit (203) (generating unit (204)). Specifically, the generating unit (204) converts the difference between the recommended timing for the next maintenance and the reference point, which is the virtual operating time, into actual operating time for each managed part by dividing it by a coefficient related to the reference source (coefficient per part).

[0187] In step S18, the maintenance management system (200) (server (4)) outputs maintenance information regarding the maintenance time from the output unit (203). For example, the output unit (203) outputs maintenance information by displaying any of output screens D1, D2, D3 on a display device such as the display (42) of the service terminal (3), the operation display unit (62) of the server (4), or the display unit (25) of the work machine (2).

[0188] The order of the maintenance management method described above is merely an example, and the order of processing shown in the flowchart of FIG. 29 may be changed as appropriate.

[0189] [4] Variant example

[0190] Variations of Embodiment 1 are listed below. The variations described below can be applied by appropriately combining them.

[0191] The maintenance management system (200) in the present disclosure includes a computer system. The computer system mainly consists of a processor and memory as hardware. By executing a program recorded in the memory of the computer system, the function of the maintenance management system (200) in the present disclosure is realized. In other words, the maintenance management program of the work machine (2) is a program for executing the maintenance management method of the work machine (2) described above on one or more processors. The program may be recorded in advance in the memory of the computer system, provided via an electrical communication line, or recorded and provided on a non-transient recording medium such as a memory card, optical disc, or hard disk drive that is readable by the computer system.

[0192] Additionally, it is not an essential configuration for the maintenance management system (200) that at least some of the functions of the maintenance management system (200) are concentrated within a single casing, and the components of the maintenance management system (200) may be formed distributed across multiple casings. For example, the output section (203) of the maintenance management system (200) may be formed in a different casing from the acquisition section (201). Furthermore, at least some of the functions of the maintenance management system (200) may be realized by the cloud (cloud computing), etc. Conversely, multiple functions of the maintenance management system (200) may be concentrated within a single casing.

[0193] Additionally, the output unit (203) is not limited to displaying information such as "tasks to be performed" or "time until the next maintenance" as output screens D2 and D3, but may also provide information such as "tasks to be performed" or "time until the next maintenance" in other forms. As an example, the output unit (203) may determine "tasks to be performed" through internal processing, and if there are tasks to be performed, it may directly notify the user by the lighting status of a lamp or sound output (including voice) from the corresponding target work machine (2). Likewise, the output unit (203) may determine "time until the next maintenance" through internal processing, and directly notify the user of "time until the next maintenance" by the lighting status of a lamp or sound output (including voice) from the corresponding target work machine (2).

[0194] (Embodiment 2)

[0195] The maintenance management system (200) related to this embodiment is different from the maintenance management system (200) related to Embodiment 1 in that the output unit (203) outputs maintenance information using the maintenance history of the target work machine (2) in addition to the virtual operating time. Hereinafter, for components identical to Embodiment 1, common reference numerals are used and descriptions are omitted accordingly.

[0196] The “maintenance history” referred to in this disclosure is information as a record (log) of actual maintenance performed on the target work machine (2), and is registered (recorded) at, for example, a service base (service point) where maintenance is performed. The maintenance history may be registered manually by a person or may be registered automatically in conjunction with the performance of maintenance. The maintenance history includes information such as the details of completed maintenance and the timing of maintenance performance for each work machine and each management unit. The timing of maintenance performance is indicated as actual operating time, for example.

[0197] Specifically, in this embodiment, the output unit (203) displays an output screen D4 as shown in FIG. 30 on the display device instead of the output screen D2 of FIG. 27. In the example of FIG. 30, the output screen D4 has, in addition to the output screen D2 of FIG. 27, a third mark (M3), a “parts replacement history (actual operating time)” column, and a “parts replacement history (actual operating time)” column.

[0198] The third mark (M3) is a mark indicating the maintenance history. In the output screen D4, the maintenance history is indicated by attaching the third mark (M3) to the position corresponding to the actual operating time during which maintenance was performed, within the "Operating Time" column, where the horizontal axis of the maintenance table (T1) is the time axis. In this embodiment, as an example, the third mark (M3) is formed as an asterisk and indicates only the history of maintenance involving the replacement of parts. For example, if it is the "filter" of the "engine," maintenance involving the replacement of parts is performed at 350 h (actual operating time), so the third mark (M3) is attached to the position at 350 h. In addition, for the "belt" of the "harvesting unit," maintenance involving the replacement of parts is performed at 300 h (actual operating time), so a third mark (M3) is attached at the 300 h position. In this way, since the maintenance history is included in the maintenance information (output screen D4), even if the arrival of the maintenance time is detected, it becomes easier to recognize the necessity of maintenance based on whether the maintenance has already been performed.

[0199] In the “Parts Replacement History (Actual Operating Time)” column, the timing of maintenance that was completed involving parts replacement for each management unit is displayed as actual operating time. In the “Parts Replacement History (Virtual Operating Time)” column, the timing of maintenance that was completed involving parts replacement for each management unit is displayed as virtual operating time. In short, the time displayed in the “Parts Replacement History (Actual Operating Time)” column is equivalent to the time marked with the third mark (M3). On the other hand, the time displayed in the “Parts Replacement History (Virtual Operating Time)” column is the value obtained by converting the time displayed in the “Parts Replacement History (Actual Operating Time)” column into virtual operating time. In short, the time obtained by multiplying the time displayed in the “Parts Replacement History (Actual Operating Time)” column by a coefficient (coefficient by part) is displayed in the “Parts Replacement History (Virtual Operating Time)” column. For example, if it is a “filter” of an “engine,” the value (350 h) obtained by multiplying the maintenance timing (350 h) by a factor (1.0) becomes the “parts replacement history (virtual operating time).” Also, if it is a “belt” of a “harvesting unit,” the value (240 h) obtained by multiplying the maintenance timing (300 h) by a factor (0.8) becomes the “parts replacement history (virtual operating time).”

[0200] Additionally, the display content of the “tasks requiring execution” column in the output screen D4 is determined based on the maintenance history. In short, even if the arrival of the maintenance time is detected, if the maintenance has already been completed, it is excluded from the “tasks requiring execution” column because there is no need to perform maintenance again. Specifically, for each management unit, when the reference point virtual operating time or actual operating time is set as the reference point, the difference between the reference point and the timing of maintenance execution in the maintenance history is calculated, and whether to exclude it from the “tasks requiring execution” column is determined based on the difference. More specifically, the maintenance management system (200) determines whether to exclude it from the “tasks requiring execution” column by comparing the difference with the interval of the corresponding maintenance. The maintenance interval mentioned here is a time that is pre-set as the interval for the maintenance in the maintenance table (T1). And, if the difference is less than the interval, the maintenance is excluded from the “work required to be performed” column.

[0201] For example, if it is the “filter” of the “engine,” the difference (50 h) between the reference point (400 h), which is the virtual operating time, and the “parts replacement history (virtual operating time)” of 350 h is less than the interval of 400 h. Therefore, for the “filter” of the “engine,” parts replacement is excluded from the “tasks requiring action” column, and the display of the “tasks requiring action” column is changed to “inspection, adjustment, cleaning.” On the other hand, if it is the “part B” of the “engine,” the difference (400 h) between the reference point (400 h), which is the virtual operating time, and the “parts replacement history (virtual operating time)” of 0 h is the interval of 300 h or more. Therefore, for the “part B” of the “engine,” parts replacement is added to the “tasks requiring action” column, and the display of the “tasks requiring action” column is changed to “replacement.” Also, for "Part C" of the "harvesting unit," the difference (120 h) between the reference point (320 h), which is the virtual operating time, and the "part replacement history (virtual operating time)" of 200 h is less than the interval of 300 h. Therefore, for "Part C" of the "harvesting unit," part replacement is excluded from the "tasks requiring action" column, and the display of the "tasks requiring action" column is changed to "inspection, adjustment, cleaning."

[0202] In this way, in the present embodiment, the output unit (203) outputs maintenance information based on the result of comparing the maintenance history and the maintenance time on the same time axis. In short, as described above, by comparing the maintenance history (part replacement history) and the maintenance time (reference point) with virtual operating times, a comparison is made on the same time axis, and more accurate maintenance information can be obtained. For a management unit where the reference source is "actual operating time," such as "part C" of the "harvesting unit," the maintenance history and the maintenance time are compared with actual operating times, so that a comparison is made on the same time axis.

[0203] The various configurations described in Embodiment 2 can be adopted in appropriate combination with the various configurations described in Embodiment 1 (including variations).

[0204] [Invention Note]

[0205] One embodiment of the present invention is a virtual operating time calculation device for calculating a virtual operating time for each of one or more target parts in a predetermined target work vehicle among a predetermined plurality of work vehicles belonging to a predetermined type, comprising: an operation situation information calculation unit that calculates a predetermined plurality of operation situation information for each of the plurality of work vehicles based on operation information of the plurality of work vehicles within the predetermined period; a basic coefficient calculation unit that calculates a plurality of basic coefficients for calculating the virtual operating time of the target work vehicle by comparing the operation situation information of the target work vehicle with the operation situation information of the entire plurality of work vehicles based on the plurality of operation situation information calculated for each of the plurality of work vehicles; a part-specific coefficient calculation unit that calculates a part-specific coefficient for each of the target parts in the target work vehicle based on the plurality of basic coefficients and a part-specific coefficient calculation formula preset for each of the one or more target parts; and a part-specific virtual operating time calculation unit that calculates the virtual operating time for each target part by multiplying the actual operating time of the target work vehicle within the predetermined period by the part-specific coefficient for each target part. Provides an output device.

[0206] In this configuration, for each target part of a target work vehicle, it is possible to calculate a virtual operating time that incorporates the relative usage situation of the target part among multiple work vehicles of the same type.

[0207] In one embodiment of the present invention, the basic coefficient calculation unit is configured to, for each operation status information of the target work vehicle, consider that the distribution of the operation status information across the entire plurality of work vehicles follows a normal distribution, divide the distribution range of the normal distribution into multiple classes, determine the class to which the operation status information of the target work vehicle belongs, and calculate a basic coefficient based on the determined class.

[0208] In one embodiment of the present invention, the basic coefficient calculation unit is configured to calculate the average and standard deviation of all the plurality of work vehicles for each operation status information of the target work vehicle, and to determine the class to which the operation status information of the target work vehicle belongs using the calculated average and standard deviation and a standardization formula.

[0209] In one embodiment of the present invention, an output screen generating unit is further included to generate an output screen for displaying the virtual operating time for each target part of the target work vehicle calculated by the virtual operating time calculation unit for each part.

[0210] In one embodiment of the present invention, the operation information includes on / off information of one or more predetermined on / off members and / or analog information which is one or more predetermined measured values ​​or detected values.

Claims

Claim 1 A maintenance management system for a work machine comprising: an acquisition unit for acquiring the actual operating time of a target work machine including a plurality of management units; an output unit for outputting maintenance information regarding the maintenance time for at least one of the plurality of management units using a virtual operating time for each of the management units derived from the actual operating time; and a time calculation unit for calculating the virtual operating time for each of the management units of the target work machine, wherein the time calculation unit calculates the virtual operating time for each of the management units of the target work machine based on reference information regarding the operating status of a plurality of work machines having common attributes with the target work machine, and the actual operating time of the target work machine. Claim 2 A maintenance management system for a work machine according to claim 1, wherein the target work machine has a plurality of parts each comprising one or more component parts, and the management unit and the component parts correspond to each other in a one-to-one manner. Claim 3 delete Claim 4 A maintenance management system for a work machine according to claim 1, wherein the time calculation unit calculates the virtual operating time for each management unit of the target work machine based on the result of comparing target information regarding the operating status of the target work machine. Claim 5 A maintenance management system for a work machine according to claim 4, wherein the result of comparison between the reference information and the target information includes the relationship between the operating status of the target work machine as the target information and the distribution of the operating status of the plurality of work machines as the reference information. Claim 6 In claim 1, the time calculation unit calculates the virtual operating time for a predetermined period for each of a predetermined one or more target parts as a management unit in a target work machine among a predetermined plurality of work machines belonging to a predetermined type; the time calculation unit comprises: an operation status information calculation unit that calculates a predetermined plurality of operation status information for each of the plurality of work machines based on operation information of the plurality of work machines within the predetermined period; a basic coefficient calculation unit that calculates a plurality of basic coefficients for calculating the virtual operating time of the target work machine by comparing the operation status information of the target work machine with the operation status information of the entire plurality of work machines based on the plurality of operation status information calculated for each of the plurality of work machines; a part-specific coefficient calculation unit that calculates a part-specific coefficient for each of the target parts in the target work machine based on the plurality of basic coefficients and a part-specific coefficient calculation formula preset for each of the one or more target parts; and a part-specific virtual operating time for each target part that calculates the virtual operating time for each target part by multiplying the actual operating time of the target work machine within the predetermined period by the part-specific coefficient for each target part. Maintenance management system for a work machine including an operating time calculation unit. Claim 7 In claim 6, the basic coefficient calculation unit is configured to, for each operation status information of the target work machine, consider that the distribution of said operation status information across all of the plurality of work machines follows a normal distribution, divide the distribution range of said normal distribution into multiple classes, determine the class to which the operation status information of said target work machine belongs, and calculate a basic coefficient based on the determined class, thereby forming a maintenance management system for a work machine. Claim 8 A maintenance management system for a work machine according to claim 7, wherein the basic coefficient calculation unit is configured to calculate the average and standard deviation of all the plurality of work machines for each operation status information of the target work machine, and to determine the class to which the operation status information of the target work machine belongs using the calculated average and standard deviation and a standardization formula. Claim 9 A maintenance management system for a work machine, wherein, in any one of claims 6 to 8, it further comprises an output screen generating unit for generating an output screen for displaying the virtual operating time for each target part of the target work machine calculated by the virtual operating time calculation unit for each part. Claim 10 A maintenance management system for a work machine according to any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein the operation information comprises on / off information of one or more predetermined on / off members and / or analog information which is one or more predetermined measured values ​​or detected values. Claim 11 A maintenance management system for a work machine, wherein, in any one of claims 1, 2, and 4 through 8, the maintenance information is information indicating the maintenance time using the virtual operating time instead of the actual operating time. Claim 12 A maintenance management system for a work machine according to any one of claims 1, 2, and 4 through 8, wherein the maintenance information includes information indicating the relative relationship between the recommended maintenance operating time and the virtual operating time for at least one management unit, and the output unit outputs at least the relative relationship in a manner that can be displayed on a display device. Claim 13 In claim 12, the output unit is a maintenance management system for a work machine that displays the recommended maintenance operating time and the virtual operating time. Claim 14 A maintenance management system for a work machine according to any one of claims 1, 2, and 4 through 8, wherein the maintenance information includes information indicating the recommended timing for the next maintenance for at least one management unit. Claim 15 In claim 14, the recommended timing is a maintenance management system for a work machine, indicated by the actual operating time. Claim 16 A maintenance management system for a work machine according to any one of claims 1, 2, and 4 to 8, wherein the output unit outputs maintenance information using the maintenance history of the target work machine in addition to the virtual operating time. Claim 17 In claim 16, the output unit outputs maintenance information based on the result of a comparison between the maintenance history and the maintenance time on the same time axis, a maintenance management system for a working machine. Claim 18 A maintenance management method for a work machine executed by a maintenance management system, comprising: acquiring the actual operating time of a target work machine including a plurality of management units; outputting maintenance information regarding the maintenance time for at least one of the plurality of management units using a virtual operating time for each of the management units derived from the actual operating time; and calculating the virtual operating time for each of the management units of the target work machine, wherein the calculation of the virtual operating time includes calculating the virtual operating time for each of the management units of the target work machine based on reference information regarding the operating status of a plurality of work machines having common attributes with the target work machine, and the actual operating time of the target work machine. Claim 19 A maintenance management program for a work machine recorded on a non-transient recording medium readable by a computer system, comprising: acquiring the actual operating time of a target work machine including a plurality of management units; outputting maintenance information regarding the maintenance time for at least one of the plurality of management units using a virtual operating time for each of the management units derived from the actual operating time; and executing on one or more processors the calculation of the virtual operating time for each of the management units of the target work machine, wherein the calculation of the virtual operating time comprises calculating the virtual operating time for each of the management units of the target work machine based on reference information regarding the operating status of a plurality of work machines having common attributes with the target work machine and the actual operating time of the target work machine.

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