Working machine

Abstract

An operating lever of a working machine is configured to operate a traveling device and includes a lever portion, a support shaft portion to rotate as the lever portion is pivoted, and a sensor bracket to support an operation sensor including a magnet and a switch to turn ON / OFF in response to the magnet approaching or moving away from a detection position. The sensor bracket includes a first bracket attached to the support shaft portion to support the magnet, a second bracket to attach the switch, and a third bracket to connect the second bracket to a sensor mount frame of a machine body and support the switch such that the switch can detect the magnet at or near the detection position. The second bracket is connected to the third bracket to be movable in a direction along which the second bracket approaches and moves away from the magnet.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority to Japanese Patent Application No. 2025-047232 filed on Mar 21, 2025. The entire contents of this application are hereby incorporated herein by reference.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION1. Field of the Invention

[0002] The present invention relates to working machines such as backhoes.2. Description of the Related Art

[0003] A working machine, such as a backhoe, including an operating lever to operate a traveling device is known. A working machine disclosed in Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2017-002592 includes a traveling device to support a machine body such that the machine body is allowed to travel, and an operating lever, wherein the traveling device is driven by pivoting the operating lever forward or rearward.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0004] The working machine may include, in consideration of safety of users performing work around the machine body, an operation sensor to detect an operation of the operating lever, and a notifier to output a warning sound according to the operation of the operating lever. The operation sensor may be a magnet sensor in consideration of durability and responsibility. The magnet sensor includes a magnet and a switch. The magnet is, for example, provided in the operating lever. The switch, on the other hand, is provided in the vicinity of the operating lever, and is switched to an ON state in response to the operating lever being operated and the magnet approaching the switch. The notifier outputs a warning sound when the switch is in the ON state.

[0005] However, recent working machines have decreased in the size of the machine body, for example, and therefore the space inside the machine body is small, requiring much labor and time to attach the operation sensor at an appropriate position.

[0006] Example embodiments of the present invention provide working machines each of which is excellent in ease of installation of the operation sensor.

[0007] Example embodiments of the present invention include the following technical feature(s) to achieve the above object.

[0008] A working machine according to an example embodiment of the present invention includes a machine body, a traveling device to support the machine body such that the machine body is allowed to travel, an operating lever to operate the traveling device, and an operation sensor to detect an operation of the operating lever, wherein the operating lever includes a lever portion, a support shaft portion to rotate in a circumferential direction as the lever portion is pivoted, and a sensor bracket to support the operation sensor, the operation sensor includes a magnet, and a switch to be switched between an ON state and an OFF state in response to the magnet approaching or moving away from a predetermined detection position, the machine body includes a sensor mount frame to support the sensor bracket, the sensor bracket includes a first bracket attached to an outer periphery of the support shaft portion to support the magnet, a second bracket to attach the switch thereto, and a third bracket to connect the second bracket to the sensor mount frame and support the switch at a position where the switch is allowed to detect the magnet at or in a vicinity of the detection position, and the second bracket is connected to the third bracket such that the second bracket is allowed to change a position thereof in a first direction along which the second bracket approaches and moves away from the magnet.

[0009] The sensor bracket may include a second guide portion to guide a movement of the second bracket along the first direction, and a second bracket fastener to fix the second bracket to the third bracket at any of positions along which the second bracket is guided by the second guide portion.

[0010] The second guide portion may include a guide groove in one of the second bracket or the third bracket, and a guide protrusion provided on the other of the second bracket or the third bracket to be inserted into the guide groove such that the guide protrusion is allowed to slide along the first direction.

[0011] The third bracket may include a support plate provided on the sensor mount frame such that the support plate overlaps the sensor mount frame when viewed in the first direction, and a connection frame provided upright along a side edge portion of the support plate and provided on the second bracket such that the connection frame overlaps the second bracket when viewed in a second direction which is perpendicular to the first direction. The guide groove may be provided in the connection frame. The guide protrusion may be provided on the second bracket.

[0012] The second bracket may include a finger hooking portion to allow a user to hook a finger when adjusting a position of the second bracket in the first direction.

[0013] The guide protrusion may be provided on a first side surface of the second bracket that faces the connection frame. The finger hooking portion may be provided on a second side surface of the second bracket that is opposite the first side surface.

[0014] The third bracket may be connected to the sensor mount frame such that the third bracket is allowed to change a position thereof along a third direction which is perpendicular to the first direction.

[0015] The sensor bracket may include a first guide portion to guide the third bracket along the third direction, and a third bracket fastener to fix the third bracket to the sensor mount frame at any of positions along which the third bracket is guided by the first guide portion.

[0016] The first guide portion may include a guide frame engaged with a side edge portion of the sensor mount frame to guide the third bracket along the third direction along the side edge portion.

[0017] The magnet may include a first magnet to approach the detection position when the support shaft portion rotates in a direction that causes the traveling device to travel forward, and a second magnet to approach the detection position when the support shaft portion rotates in a direction that causes the traveling device to travel rearward. The first magnet and the second magnet may be provided on the first bracket such that the first magnet and the second magnet are arranged at an interval therebetween in a direction in which the support shaft portion rotates.

[0018] The operation sensor may include a magnetic-flux short-circuit portion provided between the first magnet and the second magnet to short-circuit a magnetic flux between the first magnet and the second magnet.

[0019] The working machine may further include a notifier to provide a notification indicating that the traveling device is driven. The detection position may be defined at a neutral position of the operating lever. The notifier may be configured to provide the notification indicating that the traveling device is driven when the operation sensor detects that the operating lever is operated in a forward travel direction or in a rearward travel direction from the neutral position.

[0020] The above and other elements, features, steps, characteristics and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description of the example embodiments with reference to the attached drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] A more complete appreciation of example embodiments of the present invention and many of the attendant advantages thereof will be readily obtained as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in connection with the accompanying drawings described below.

[0022] FIG. 1 is a rear perspective view of a working machine of the present invention.

[0023] FIG. 2 is a left side view of a working machine of the present invention.

[0024] FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of a working machine of the present invention.

[0025] FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of an operator’s seat and its surroundings.

[0026] FIG. 5 is a block diagram schematically illustrating a configuration of a traveling lever and its surroundings.

[0027] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a support shaft portion of a traveling lever and its surroundings.

[0028] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an operation sensor and its surroundings.

[0029] FIG. 8 is a right side view of an operation sensor and its surroundings.

[0030] FIG. 9 is a partially exploded right side view of an operation sensor and its surroundings.

[0031] FIG. 10 is a partially exploded right perspective view of an operation sensor and its surroundings.

[0032] FIG. 11 is a partially exploded left perspective view of an operation sensor and its surroundings.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

[0033] Example embodiments will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate corresponding or identical elements throughout the various drawings. The drawings are to be viewed in an orientation in which the reference numerals are viewed correctly.

[0034] Example embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to drawings.

[0035] As shown in FIGS. 1-3, a working machine 1 of the present example embodiment includes a machine body 2, a traveling device 3, a prime mover 4, and a hydraulic pump 5. The working machine 1 of the present example embodiment is a backhoe, and includes a working device 6. The working machine 1 includes an operator’s seat 7 and a manual operator 8. The working machine 1 may include a canopy 9. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the working machine 1 of the present example embodiment includes a notifier 10 and an operation sensor 40.

[0036] It is noted that the working machine 1 according to the present invention is not limited to a backhoe. For example, the working machine 1 may be a tractor, a wheel loader, a combine, or the like. The working machine 1 may include, instead of the canopy 9, a cabin to surround the entire operator’s seat 7. Alternatively, the working machine 1 may include a rollover protection structure (ROPS) instead of the canopy 9.

[0037] In the following description, except for cases where a configuration of an operation sensor 40 and its surroundings (described later) are described, a front-back direction of an operator sitting in the operator’s seat 7, i.e., a front-rear direction of the operator’s seat 7 (direction indicated by arrows X1, X2 in FIGS. 1-4) is referred to as a front-rear direction, a left-right direction of the operator’s seat 7 (direction indicated by arrows Y1, Y2 in FIGS. 1, 3, 4) is referred to as a left-right direction, and an up-down direction of the operator’s seat 7 (direction indicated by arrows Z1, Z2 in FIGS. 1-4) is referred to as an up-down direction.

[0038] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 4, the machine body 2 includes a hood 11. The hood 11 is a protection cover to protect devices such as a prime mover 4 provided inside the machine body 2. The machine body 2 may include a weight 12. The weight 12 of the present example embodiment is provided at a lower rear portion of the machine body 2.

[0039] The machine body 2 includes a floor 2T. The floor 2T is provided at an upper front portion of the machine body 2. The floor 2T is provided downward and forward of the operator’s seat 7, and functions as a step board surface when an operator enters the working machine 1 or when the operator sits in the operator’s seat 7.

[0040] The machine body 2 may include a left console 2CL and a right console 2CR. The left console 2CL is provided at an upper portion of the machine body 2 such that the left console 2CL is leftward of the operator’s seat 7. The right console 2CR is provided at the upper portion of the machine body 2 such that the right console 2CR is rightward of the operator’s seat 7.

[0041] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the machine body 2 includes a swing bracket 13. The swing bracket 13 is pivotally attached to a front portion of the machine body 2 such that the swing bracket 13 is swingable about a vertical axis (axis extending in the up-down direction). As shown in FIG. 3, the swing bracket 13 is connected to a swing cylinder (hydraulic cylinder) C2 provided on the machine body 2, and is caused to swing about the vertical axis by extension or retraction of the swing cylinder C2.

[0042] As shown in FIGS. 1-4, the machine body 2 includes a controller U1 and a hydraulic valve assembly (control valve) U2 within the machine body 2. The controller U1 is housed in a space inside the hood 11 together with the prime mover 4. The hydraulic valve assembly U2 is housed in a space below the floor 2T. The controller U1 and the hydraulic valve assembly U2 will be detailed later.

[0043] As shown in FIGS. 1-3, the traveling device 3 supports the machine body 2 such that the machine body 2 is allowed to travel. The traveling device 3 is provided below the machine body 2. The traveling device 3 of the present example embodiment is a crawler traveling device. The traveling device 3 includes a travel frame (track frame) 14 and travel mechanisms 15.

[0044] The travel frame 14 is a structural body to support the machine body 2 from below. The travel frame 14 supports the machine body 2 such that the machine body 2 is allowed to swivel. In other words, the machine body 2 is supported at an upper portion of the travel frame 14 such that the machine body 2 is allowed to swivel. As shown in FIG. 2, the travel frame 14 includes a swivel motor M1. The swivel motor M1 of the present example embodiment is a hydraulic motor, and driven by hydraulic fluid supplied by the hydraulic pump 5. The machine body 2 is driven by the swivel motor M1.

[0045] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, the travel mechanisms 15 include a left travel mechanism 15L and a right travel mechanism 15R. The left travel mechanism 15L is provided at a left portion of the travel frame 14. The right travel mechanism 15R is provided at a right portion of the travel frame 14. Thus, the traveling device 3 of the present example embodiment includes a pair of the right and left travel mechanisms 15.

[0046] The left travel mechanism 15L and the right travel mechanism 15R each include a travel motor M2. The travel motor M2 of the present example embodiment is a hydraulic motor, and driven by the hydraulic fluid supplied by the hydraulic pump 5. The left travel mechanism 15L and the right travel mechanism 15R are each driven by the travel motor M2 independently.

[0047] It is noted that, although the traveling device 3 of the present example embodiment includes a single travel mechanism 15 at the left portion thereof and a single travel mechanism 15 at the right portion thereof, the traveling device 3 may include a plurality of travel mechanisms 15 at the left portion thereof and a plurality of travel mechanisms 15 at the right portion thereof. The traveling device3 is not limited to a crawler traveling device. For example, the traveling device 3 may include tire wheels. The traveling device 3 may include crawler traveling device(s) and tire wheels.

[0048] The traveling device 3 may include a dozer assembly 16. The dozer assembly 16 of the present example embodiment is provided at a front portion of the travel frame 14. As shown in FIG. 3, the dozer assembly 16 is connected to a dozer cylinder (hydraulic cylinder) C1 provided on the travel frame 14, and is raised or lowered by extension or retraction of the dozer cylinder C1. It is noted that the dozer assembly 16 may be provided at the rear portion of the travel frame 14.

[0049] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, the prime mover 4 drives the hydraulic pump 5. The prime mover 4 of the present example embodiment is a diesel engine. The prime mover 4 is housed in the machine body 2. The prime mover 4 of the present example embodiment is provided below the operator’s seat 7 and forward of the weight 12 in the space surrounded by the hood 11.

[0050] It is noted that the prime mover 4 is not limited to a diesel engine. For example, the prime mover 4 may be a gasoline engine or a hydrogen engine driven by energy on combustion of hydrogen gas. Alternatively, the prime mover 4 may be an electric motor driven by electricity generated by a fuel battery or electricity stored in a battery assembly, and may be a hybrid prime mover including the engine and the electric motor.

[0051] The hydraulic pump 5 is driven to supply hydraulic fluid (pressurized fluid) to hydraulic actuators provided in the working machine 1 such as hydraulic motors, and hydraulic cylinders (dozer cylinder C1, swing cylinder C2, boom cylinder C3, arm cylinder C4, bucket cylinder C5). The hydraulic pump 5 is provided at a side portion of the prime mover 4 and is adjacent to the prime mover 4, and is driven by power of the prime mover 4.

[0052] The working device 6 includes a boom 6A, an arm 6B, and a bucket 6C. The boom 6A is pivotally attached to the swing bracket 13 on the machine body 2 such that the boom 6A is swingable about a horizontal axis (axis extending in the left-right direction). The boom 6A is connected to the swing bracket 13 via the boom cylinder (hydraulic cylinder) C3, and is caused to swing about the horizontal axis by extension or retraction of the boom cylinder C3.

[0053] The arm 6B is pivotally attached to a distal end portion of the boom 6A such that the arm 6B is swingable about a horizontal axis (axis extending in the left-right direction). The arm 6B is connected to the boom 6A via the arm cylinder (hydraulic cylinder) C4, and is caused to swing about the horizontal axis by extension or retraction of the arm cylinder C4.

[0054] The bucket 6C is pivotally attached to a distal end portion of the arm 6B such that the bucket 6C is swingable about a horizontal axis (axis extending in the left-right direction). The bucket 6C is connected to the arm 6B via the bucket cylinder (hydraulic cylinder) C5, and is caused to swing about the horizontal axis by extension or retraction of the bucket cylinder C5.

[0055] It is noted that the working device 6 may include, instead of or in addition to the bucket 6C, another working tool (attachment) at the distal end portion of the arm 6B. For example, the working device 6 may include, as the above-described working tool, a hydraulic breaker, a hydraulic crusher, an angle broom, an earth auger, a pallet fork, a sweeper, a mower, a snow blower, or the like.

[0056] The operator’s seat 7 is provided at the upper portion of the machine body 2. The operator’s seat 7 is upward and rearward of the floor 2T. The operator’s seat 7 of the present example embodiment is positioned at the center or substantially center of the machine body 2 in the left-right direction. It is noted that the operator’s seat 7 may be provided at an upper left portion of the machine body 2 or may be provided at an upper right portion of the machine body 2.

[0057] The manual operator 8 is provided in the vicinity of the operator’s seat 7 at the upper portion of the machine body 2. The manual operator 8 of the present example embodiment includes traveling lever(s) 21, an operation lock lever (unloading lever) 22, manipulating lever(s) 23, and a dozer lever 24. The traveling lever 21, the operation lock lever 22, the manipulating lever 23, and the dozer lever 24 are connected to the hydraulic valve assembly U2 via a linkage mechanism or a hydraulic hose.

[0058] The traveling lever 21 is an operating lever to operate the traveling device 3. As shown in FIGS. 1-4, the traveling lever 21 of the present example embodiment is provided upright at a front portion of the floor 2T. The traveling lever 21 of the present example embodiment is forward of the center or substantially center of the operator’s seat 7 in the left-right direction. Therefore, an operator sitting in the operator’s seat 7 can operate the traveling lever 21 with a right hand or a left hand.

[0059] It is noted that, provided that operability is not impaired, the traveling lever 21 may be leftward and forward of the operator’s seat 7, or may be rightward and forward of the operator’s seat 7. The traveling lever 21 may be provided at a portion other than the floor 2T. For example, the working machine 1 may include a front console (dashboard) provided at the upper portion of the machine body 2 such that the front console is forward of the operator’s seat 7, and the traveling lever 21 may be provided at the front console.

[0060] As shown in FIG. 4, the traveling levers 21 of the present example embodiment include a left traveling lever 21L and a right traveling lever 21R. The left traveling lever 21L is an operating lever to operate the left travel mechanism 15L (see FIG. 1). The right traveling lever 21R is an operating lever to operate the right travel mechanism 15R (see FIG. 1). The left traveling lever 21L and the right traveling lever 21R are arranged in the left-right direction at the front portion of the floor 2T. The traveling levers 21 will be detailed later.

[0061] The operation lock lever 22 is an operating lever used to switch between allowing and prohibiting operations of hydraulic devices such as hydraulic cylinders C1 to C5. As shown in FIGS. 1-3, the operation lock lever 22 extends forward from a left side portion of the left console 2CL. That is, the operation lock lever 22 is leftward and forward of the operator’s seat 7.

[0062] Each manipulating lever 23 is an operating lever used to control the turn of the machine body 2 and operate the working device 6. The manipulating levers 23 of the present embodiment includes a left manipulating lever 23L and a right manipulating lever 23R. The left manipulating lever 23L is provided on the left console 2CL. The right manipulating lever 23R is provided on the right console 2CR.

[0063] The dozer lever 24 is an operating lever to operate the dozer assembly 16. The dozer lever 24 is provided upright on the right console 2CR. That is, the dozer lever 24 of the present example embodiment is adjacent to the right manipulating lever 23R.

[0064] The canopy 9 is a protector to protect the operator’s seat 7. The canopy 9 is provided at the upper portion of the machine body 2. The canopy 9 includes a protection frame (ROPS) 9A and a roof 9B. The protection frame 9A is a frame obtained by bending pipe(s), and extends from the front portion of the floor 2T to an upper rear portion of the hood 11 through an area above of the operator’s seat 7. The roof 9B is provided at an upper portion of the protection frame 9A.

[0065] The notifier 10 is a sound output interface. The notifier 10 of the present example embodiment is a buzzer or beeper to output a warning sound. The notifier 10 provides a notification indicating that the traveling device 3 is being driven based on detection information from the operation sensor 40. The notifier 10 of the present example embodiment outputs the warning sound when the traveling lever 21 is operated and the operation sensor 40 is in an ON state. As shown in FIGS. 2-4, the notifier 10 is provided inside the machine body 2. The notifier 10 of the present example embodiment is provided at a front right portion of the machine body 2.

[0066] It is noted that, provided that it is possible to appropriately provide a notification indicating that the traveling device 3 is being driven to people around the working machine 1, the position of the notifier 10 is not limited to the front portion of the machine body 2. For example, the notifier 10 may be provided at a rear portion of the machine body 2, or may be provided at one or both of the left portion of the machine body 2 and the right portion of the machine body 2. Alternatively, the notifier 10 may be provided on the roof 9B, and may be provided on one or both of the left console 2CL and the right console 2CR.

[0067] The controller U1 is an electric control unit (ECU) to control the operation of the working machine 1. The controller U1 includes one or more memories, one or more processors, and the like. The memory stores software program(s) to be executed by the processor(s) and various data. The processor reads the software program(s) from the memory, and performs various processes relating to the operations of the working machine 1 based on the software program(s).

[0068] The controller U1 is connected to electric devices provided in or on the working machine 1 such as sensors, a display and lighting device(s) via communication wires. As shown in FIG. 5, the controller U1 is connected to the notifier 10 and a switch 42 of the operation sensor 40 via communication wires. The switch 42 is provided on the communication wire to connect the notifier 10 and the controller U1, and, when the switch 42 is switched to an OFF state, cuts off the connection between the notifier 10 and the controller U1.

[0069] The controller U1 controls a notifying operation performed by the notifier 10. Specifically, for example, when the traveling lever 21 is pivoted forward or rearward from a predetermined neutral position while the prime mover 4 is driven and the operation sensor 40 is switched to the ON state, the controller U1 causes the notifier 10 to output a warning sound. When the traveling lever 21 is returned to the neutral position from a front position or a rear position and the operation sensor 40 is switched to the OFF state, the controller U1 causes the notifier 10 to stop outputting the warning sound.

[0070] As described above, the notifier 10 provides a notification indicating that the traveling device 3 is driven when the operation sensor 40 detects that the traveling lever 21 is pivoted forward (in a forward travel direction) or rearward (in a rearward travel direction) from the neutral position. With this, the user performing work around the working machine 1 is able to clearly know whether or not the traveling device 3 is driven.

[0071] The controller U1 continues to cause the notifier 10 to output the warning sound while the operation sensor 40 is in the ON state. The controller U1 causes the notifier 10 to not output the warning sound while the operation sensor 40 is in the OFF state.

[0072] It is noted that the warning sound may be a buzzer or beep sound output intermittently, and may be a buzzer or beep sound that alternates between high and low tones at regular intervals. The warning sound may be a melody or a voice such as a warning message.

[0073] The hydraulic valve assembly U2 adjusts the supply of hydraulic fluid to the hydraulic devices. The hydraulic valve assembly U2 is a hydraulic controller which is an assembly of a plurality of hydraulic control valves. The hydraulic valve assembly U2 of the present example embodiment includes, as hydraulic control valves, a left travel control valve V1, a right travel control valve V2, a swivel control valve V3, a dozer control valve V4, a swing control valve V5, a boom control valve V6, an arm control valve V7, a bucket control valve V8, and / or the like.

[0074] The left travel control valve V1 controls the drive of the travel motor M2 of the left travel mechanism 15L. Specifically, the left travel control valve V1 is connected to the left traveling lever 21L via a linkage mechanism 34, and causes the travel motor M2 of the left travel mechanism 15L to rotate forward (rotate to achieve forward travel), rotate reversely (rotate to achieve rearward travel), or stop according to the operation of the left traveling lever 21L.

[0075] The right travel control valve V2 controls the drive of the travel motor M2 of the right travel mechanism 15R. Specifically, the right travel control valve V2 is connected to the right traveling lever 21R via a linkage mechanism 34, and causes the travel motor M2 of the right travel mechanism 15R to rotate forward (rotate to achieve forward travel), rotate reversely (rotate to achieve rearward travel), or stop according to the operation of the right traveling lever 21R.

[0076] It is noted that, for example, the traveling device 3 is configured to, when both the travel motor M2 of the left travel mechanism 15L and the travel motor M2 of the right travel mechanism 15R rotate forward, cause the working machine 1 to travel forward. The traveling device 3 is configured to, when both the travel motor M2 of the left travel mechanism 15L and the travel motor M2 of the right travel mechanism 15R rotate reversely, cause the working machine 1 to travel rearward. The traveling device 3 is configured to, when the travel motor M2 of one of the travel mechanisms 15 (for example, left travel mechanism 15L) rotates forward and the travel motor M2 of the other of the travel mechanisms 15 (for example, right travel mechanism 15R) rotates reversely or stops, cause the working machine 1 to turn.

[0077] The swivel control valve V3 controls the drive of the swivel motor M1. The dozer control valve V4 controls the operation of the dozer cylinder C1. The swing control valve V5 controls the operation of the swing cylinder C2. The boom control valve V6 controls the operation of the boom cylinder C3. The arm control valve V7 controls the operation of the arm cylinder C4. The bucket control valve V8 controls the operation of the bucket cylinder C5.

[0078] As shown in FIG. 5, the hydraulic pump 5 and the travel motors M2 are both connected to the hydraulic valve assembly U2 via hydraulic hose(s). The hydraulic valve assembly U2 controls the operation of the travel mechanisms 15 by adjusting the supply of the hydraulic fluid from the hydraulic pump 5 to the travel motors M2.

[0079] As shown in FIGS. 4 and 6, the traveling levers 21 include lever portion(s) 31 and a support shaft portion 32. Each lever portion 31 extends to the interior of the machine body 2 from above the floor 2T, and is connected to the support shaft portion 32. The support shaft portion 32 is supported within the machine body 2 such that the support shaft portion 32 is rotatable in a circumferential direction. That is, the support shaft portion 32 pivotally supports the lever portion(s) 31 within the machine body 2 such that the lever portion(s) 31 is / are swingable.

[0080] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 6, the support shaft portion 32 is a cylindrical shaft body, and extends in the left-right direction within the machine body 2. A lever bracket 2S is provided inside the machine body 2. The lever bracket 2S is a pair of plate frames arranged in the left-right direction at an interval therebetween within the front portion of the machine body 2. The support shaft portion 32 is rotatably supported by the lever bracket 2S at the left end and the right end thereof.

[0081] The support shaft portion 32 of the present example embodiment includes an outside-support-shaft tubular portion 33. The outside-support-shaft tubular portion 33 is a cylindrical body which is shorter than the support shaft portion 32, and has a diameter larger than the outer diameter of the support shaft portion 32. The outside-support-shaft tubular portion 33 is rotatably fitted around an outer periphery of the support shaft portion 32. The outside-support-shaft tubular portion 33 connects and holds a right lever portion 31R (described later) to and at the support shaft portion 32 such that the right lever portion 31R is rotatable.

[0082] The lever portion 31 (left lever portion 31L) of the left traveling lever 21L includes a proximal end portion N1 connected to and fixed to an outer peripheral surface of the support shaft portion 32. That is, the left lever portion 31L extends outward from the support shaft portion 32 in a radial direction of the support shaft portion 32 from the outer peripheral surface of the support shaft portion 32. Therefore, the left lever portion 31L swings in the circumferential direction of the support shaft portion 32 about the support shaft portion 32.

[0083] A proximal end portion N2 of the lever portion 31 (right lever portion 31R) of the right traveling lever 21R of the present example embodiment is bent leftward with respect to the right traveling lever 21R. That is, the proximal end portion N2 of the right lever portion 31R extends leftward with respect to the right lever portion 31R.

[0084] The proximal end portion N2 of the right lever portion 31R of the present example embodiment extends in the same direction as the support shaft portion 32 along an outer peripheral surface of the outside-support-shaft tubular portion 33, and is connected and fixed to the outer peripheral surface. Therefore, the right lever portion 31R swings in the circumferential direction of the support shaft portion 32 about the support shaft portion 32.

[0085] As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the traveling levers 21 each include the linkage mechanism 34. As shown in FIG. 6, the left traveling lever 21L and the right traveling lever 21R each include the linkage mechanism 34. The traveling levers 21 are connected to the hydraulic valve assembly U2 via the linkage mechanisms 34.

[0086] Each linkage mechanism 34 of the present example embodiment includes a first link arm 35 and a second link arm 36. As shown in FIG. 6, the first link arm 35 (left first link arm 35L) of the left traveling lever 21L extends outward in a radial direction of the support shaft portion 32 from the outer periphery of the support shaft portion 32. Therefore, the left first link arm 35L swings in the circumferential direction of the support shaft portion 32 as the support shaft portion 32 rotates. That is, the left first link arm 35L swings in the circumferential direction of the support shaft portion 32 as the left lever portion 31L is pivoted forward or rearward.

[0087] The distal end portion of the left first link arm 35L is pivotally connected to a first end portion of the second link arm 36 (left second link arm 36L) of the left traveling lever 21L. The left second link arm 36L extends in the front-rear direction at a front portion of the hydraulic valve assembly U2. A second end portion of the left second link arm 36L is pivotally supported at and connected to a valve rod of the left travel control valve V1.

[0088] As described above, the left second link arm 36L connects the distal end portion of the left first link arm 35L and the valve rod of the left travel control valve V1. Therefore, the left second link arm 36L moves in the front-rear direction as the left first link arm 35L swings, and drives the left travel control valve V1.

[0089] The first link arm 35 (right first link arm 35R) of the right traveling lever 21R extends outward in a radial direction of the support shaft portion 32 from the outer periphery of the outside-support-shaft tubular portion 33. Therefore, the right first link arm 35R swings in the circumferential direction of the outside-support-shaft tubular portion 33 as the outside-support-shaft tubular portion 33 rotates about the support shaft portion 32. That is, the right first link arm 35R swings in the circumferential direction of the support shaft portion 32 as the right lever portion 31R is pivoted forward or rearward.

[0090] The distal end portion of the right first link arm 35R is pivotally connected to a first end portion of the second link arm 36 (right second link arm 36R) of the right traveling lever 21R. The right second link arm 36R extends in the front-rear direction at the front portion of the hydraulic valve assembly U2. A second end portion of the right second link arm 36R is pivotally supported at and connected to a valve rod of the right travel control valve V2.

[0091] As described above, the right second link arm 36R connects the distal end portion of the right first link arm 35R and the valve rod of the right travel control valve V2. Therefore, the right second link arm 36R moves in the front-rear direction as the right first link arm 35R swings, and drives the right travel control valve V2.

[0092] Each traveling lever 21 of the present example embodiment is provided with a sensor bracket 37. As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the sensor bracket 37 supports the corresponding operation sensor 40 at the outer periphery of the support shaft portion 32. The operation sensors 40 are respectively provided on the left traveling lever 21L and the right traveling lever 21R. That is, the left traveling lever 21L and the right traveling lever 21R are each provided with the sensor bracket 37. The sensor brackets 37 will be detailed later.

[0093] In the following description of a configuration of the operation sensor 40 and its surroundings, a first radial direction of the support shaft portion 32 (direction indicated by arrows X3, X4 in FIGS. 7-11) is referred to as a front-rear direction, the axial direction of the support shaft portion 32 (direction indicated by arrows Y3, Y4 in FIGS. 7, 9, and 10) is referred to as a left-right direction, and a second radial direction of the support shaft portion 32 (direction indicated by arrows Z3, Z4 in FIGS. 7-11) perpendicular to the first radial direction is referred to as an up-down direction.

[0094] It is noted that, although the axial direction (left-right direction) of the support shaft portion 32 is defined to coincide with the left-right direction of the machine body 2 in the present example embodiment, the axial direction of the support shaft portion 32 does not need to coincide with the left-right direction of the machine body 2. Although the first radial direction (front-rear direction) of the support shaft portion 32 does not coincide with the front-rear direction of the machine body 2 in the present example embodiment, the first radial direction of the support shaft portion 32 may be defined to coincide with the front-rear direction of the machine body 2. Similarly, although the second radial direction (up-down direction) of the support shaft portion 32 does not coincide with the up-down direction of the machine body 2 in the present example embodiment, the second radial direction of the support shaft portion 32 may be defined to coincide with the up-down direction of the machine body 2.

[0095] Each operation sensor 40 detects the operation of the corresponding traveling lever 21. The operation sensor 40 is a magnet sensor to turn on and off in response to changes in magnetic force. As shown in FIGS. 5-11, the operation sensor 40 includes magnet(s) 41 and a switch 42.

[0096] Each magnet 41 is a detecting element (sensor) to detect the operating position of the traveling lever 21. The magnet 41 is provided at the outer periphery of the support shaft portion 32. As shown in FIG. 7, the magnet 41 of the operation sensor 40 of the left traveling lever 21L is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the support shaft portion 32, and functions as a detecting element to detect the rotational position of the support shaft portion 32, i.e., the operating position of the left traveling lever 21L. On the other hand, the magnet 41 of the operation sensor 40 of the right traveling lever 21R is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the outside-support-shaft tubular portion 33, and functions as a detecting element to detect the rotational position of the outside-support-shaft tubular portion 33, i.e., the operating position of the right traveling lever 21R.

[0097] As shown in FIGS. 7-11, the magnets 41 of the present example embodiment include a first magnet 41A and a second magnet 41B. The first magnet 41A and the second magnet 41B are provided above the support shaft portion 32.

[0098] The first magnet 41A and the second magnet 41B are arranged at an interval in the front-rear direction, i.e., the direction of rotation of the support shaft portion 32. As shown in FIG. 8, the first magnet 41A and the second magnet 41B are arranged in the front-rear direction with a support shaft center line L1 therebetween. It is noted that the support shaft center line L1 is an imaginary line extending in the up-down direction (predetermined second radial direction) passing through the axis of the support shaft portion 32.

[0099] The first magnet 41A is rearward of the support shaft center line L1. The second magnet 41B is forward of the support shaft center line L1. Therefore, for example, when the support shaft portion 32 rotates forward as the left traveling lever 21L (see FIG. 7) is pivoted forward from the predetermined neutral position, the first magnet 41A moves forward and approaches the support shaft center line L1. That is, the first magnet 41A approaches the support shaft center line L1 (detection position) when the support shaft portion 32 rotates forward (in a direction that causes the traveling device to travel forward).

[0100] On the contrary, when the support shaft portion 32 rotates rearward as the left traveling lever 21L (see FIG. 7) is pivoted rearward from the predetermined neutral position, the second magnet 41B moves rearward and approaches the support shaft center line L1. That is, the second magnet 41B approaches the support shaft center line L1 (detection position) when the support shaft portion 32 rotates rearward (in a direction that causes the traveling device 3 to travel rearward).

[0101] When the left traveling lever 21L (see FIG. 7) is returned to the neutral position from the front position or the rear position, both the first magnet 41A and the second magnet 41B are away from the support shaft center line L1.

[0102] On the other hand, when the outside-support-shaft tubular portion 33 rotates forward as the right traveling lever 21R (see FIG. 7) is pivoted toward the front position from the predetermined neutral position, the first magnet 41A moves forward and approaches the support shaft center line L1. On the contrary, when the outside-support-shaft tubular portion 33 rotates rearward as the right traveling lever 21R (see FIG. 7) is pivoted toward the rear position from the predetermined neutral position, the second magnet 41B moves rearward and approaches the support shaft center line L1. When the right traveling lever 21R (see FIG. 7) is returned to the neutral position from the front position or the rear position, both the first magnet 41A and the second magnet 41B are away from the support shaft center line L1.

[0103] Each of the switches 42 includes a magnetic force detector P. The switch 42 is a reed switch, which is configured to be switched to the ON state when a magnet 41 approaches the magnetic force detector P, and switched to the OFF state when the magnet 41 moves away from the magnetic force detector P. That is, the switch 42 turns on and off in response to changes in magnetic force around the magnetic force detector P.

[0104] The switch 42 of the present example embodiment is provided above the support shaft portion 32. The switch 42 is provided above the support shaft portion 32 such that the magnetic force detector P faces downward (toward the support shaft portion 32).

[0105] Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the machine body 2 includes sensor mount frame(s) 2F. The sensor mount frames 2F are provided in the vicinity of the outer periphery of the support shaft portion 32 within the machine body 2. The sensor mount frames 2F are fixed to a front frame portion of the machine body 2. Each switch 42 is attached to the corresponding sensor mount frame 2F via the corresponding sensor bracket 37.

[0106] The switch 42 is supported on the sensor mount frame 2F such that the magnetic force detector P faces downward. As shown in FIG. 8, the switch 42 of the present example embodiment is provided such that the center of the magnetic force detector P coincides with the support shaft center line L1. That is, the switch 42 of the present example embodiment is provided such that the support shaft center line L1 is a detection position at which the magnet 41 is to be detected, and is switched between the ON state and the OFF state in response to the magnet 41 approaching or moving away from the detection position. The switch 42 of the present example embodiment is switched to the ON state in response to the magnet 41 moving onto the support shaft center line L1, and the switch 42 is switched to the OFF state in response to the magnet 41 moving away from the support shaft center line L1.

[0107] As described above, the first magnet 41A and the second magnet 41B are provided at a predetermined interval in the front-rear direction with the support shaft center line L1 therebetween. Therefore, the switch 42 is switched to the ON state, for example, when the traveling lever 21 is pivoted toward the font position from the neutral position (when the lever portion 31 is pivoted forward) and the first magnet 41A approaches the support shaft center line L1, or when the traveling lever 21 is pivoted toward the rear position from the neutral position (when the lever portion 31 pivoted rearward) and the second magnet 41B approaches the support shaft center line L1.

[0108] The switch 42 is in the OFF state when the traveling lever 21 is at the neutral position and the first magnet 41A and the second magnet 41B are both away from the support shaft center line L1, in other words, when the support shaft center line L1 is located between the first magnet 41A and the second magnet 41B. Thus, the switch 42 turns on and off according to the pivoting operation of the traveling lever 21.

[0109] Each of the operation sensors 40 includes a magnetic-flux short-circuit portion 43. The operation sensor 40 may include an auxiliary plate 44. The magnetic-flux short-circuit portion 43 is made of a ferromagnetic metal plate such as a steel plate or a stainless plate. The magnetic-flux short-circuit portion 43 of the present example embodiment is a plate body bent in a U-shape or a substantially U-shape, and fixed to an upper surface of the auxiliary plate 44 such that end portions of the U-shape are pointed upward.

[0110] The auxiliary plate 44 is a rectangular flat plate. The first magnet 41A and the second magnet 41B are arranged with the magnetic-flux short-circuit portion 43 therebetween at the upper surface of the auxiliary plate 44. The first magnet 41A and the second magnet 41B are positioned in contact with outside surfaces of the end portions of the magnetic-flux short-circuit portion 43. Thus, the magnetic-flux short-circuit portion 43 is provided between the first magnet 41A and the second magnet 41B, and short-circuits the magnetic flux between the first magnet 41A and the second magnet 42B.

[0111] As shown in FIGS. 7-11, each of the sensor brackets 37 includes a first bracket 37A, a second bracket 37B, and a third bracket 37C. The first bracket 37A is attached to the outer periphery of the support shaft portion 32, and supports the magnets 41 (first magnet 41A, second magnet 41B). The second bracket 37B attaches the corresponding switch 42 thereto. The third bracket 37C connects the second bracket 37B to the corresponding sensor mount frame 2F, and supports the corresponding switch 42 at a position where the switch 42 is allowed to detect each magnet 41 at or in the vicinity of the above-described detection position (support shaft center line L1).

[0112] The first bracket 37A is a plate body bent in an L-shape or a substantially L-shape. As shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the first bracket 37A includes a fixation frame 45 and a base frame 46. The fixation frame 45 extends downward from a side edge portion of the base frame 46. The first bracket 37A is configured such that the fixation frame 45 is fixed to a corresponding magnet attachment frame 3F and that the first bracket 37A is supported at the outer periphery of the support shaft portion 32.

[0113] Specifically, the machine body 2 includes the magnet attachment frames 3F. The magnet attachment frames 3F are respectively provided on the outer peripheral surface of the support shaft portion 32 and the outer peripheral surface of the outside-support-shaft tubular portion 33. Each magnet attachment frame 3F includes first bracket mount hole(s) 38 as bolt through hole(s).

[0114] As shown in FIG. 11, the first bracket 37A, similarly to the magnet attachment frame 3F, includes first connection hole(s) 47 as bolt through hole(s). The first connection hole(s) 47 is / are provided in the fixation frame 45. The sensor bracket 37 includes first bracket fastener(s) 48. Each of the first bracket fasteners 48 includes a fixing bolt 48A and a fixing nut 48B.

[0115] As shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the first bracket 37A is positioned such that an outside surface S1 of the fixation frame 45 is placed on (overlaps) a first side surface S3 of the magnet attachment frame 3F. Each fixing nut 48B is provided on an inside surface S2 of the fixation frame 45. Each fixing bolt 48A is connected to the corresponding fixing nut 48B from a second side surface S4 of the magnet attachment frame 3F through the corresponding first bracket mount hole 38 of the magnet attachment frame 3F and the corresponding first connection hole 47 of the fixation frame 45. With this, the first bracket 37A is fastened to the magnet attachment frame 3F such that the fixation frame 45 overlaps the magnet attachment frame 3F when viewed in the left-right direction. Thus, the first bracket 37A is attached to the outer periphery of the support shaft portion 32.

[0116] The fixing nut 48B may be fixed to the first bracket 37A. For example, the fixing nut 48B of the present example embodiment is a weld nut, and fixed to the fixation frame 45 of the first bracket 37A by welding. With this, the user who attaches the operation sensor 40 does not need to hold the fixing nut 48B with fingers when fixing the first bracket 37A to the magnet attachment frame 3F as described above.

[0117] The first bracket 37A of the present example embodiment includes two first connection holes 47. The first connection holes 47 are arranged in the front-rear direction at the central or substantially central position of the fixation frame 45 in the up-down direction. The magnet attachment frame 3F includes two first bracket mount holes 38 similarly to the first bracket 37A. The first bracket mount holes 38 are arranged in the front-rear direction at an upper portion of the magnet attachment frame 3F. Therefore, the first bracket 37A is fixed to the magnet attachment frame 3F at two front and rear points by two sets of the fixing bolt 48A and the fixing nut 48B.

[0118] The base frame 46 extends laterally from the upper edge portion of the fixation frame 45. The base frame 46 is in the form of a rectangular plate or a substantially rectangular plate elongated in the front-rear direction when viewed from above. The magnets 41 are supported on and fixed to the upper surface of the base frame 46.

[0119] Specifically, the base frame 46 includes magnet mount hole(s) 50 as screw through hole(s). The sensor bracket 37 includes magnet fastener(s) 51. Each of the magnet fasteners 51 includes an attaching screw 51A and an attaching nut 51B.

[0120] The magnets 41 are attached to an upper surface of the base frame 46 with the auxiliary plate 44 between the magnets 41 and the base frame 46. Each attaching nut 51B is provided on a lower surface of the base frame 46. Each attaching screw 51A is connected to the corresponding attaching nut 51B on the base frame 46 from above the magnet 41 through the magnet mount hole 50 of the base frame 46. With this, the magnet 41 is fixed to the magnet attachment frame 3F via the first bracket 37A. Thus, the magnets 41 are positioned and held at the outer periphery of the support shaft portion 32.

[0121] The attaching nut 51B may be fixed to the first bracket 37A. For example, the attaching nut 51B of the present example embodiment is a weld nut, and fixed to the base frame 46 of the first bracket 37A by welding. With this, when a user fixes the magnet 41 to the first bracket 37A as described above, the user does not need to hold the attaching nut 51B with fingers.

[0122] The first bracket 37A of the present example embodiment includes two magnet mount holes 50. The magnet mount holes 50 are arranged in the front-rear direction at the base frame 46. Therefore, the first magnet 41A and the second magnet 41B are fixed to the base frame 46 such that the first magnet 41A and the second magnet 41B are arranged in the front-rear direction.

[0123] The second bracket 37B is a plate body in the form of a rectangle or a substantially rectangle elongated in the up-down direction in a side view. The switch 42 is attached to the second bracket 37B. The second bracket 37B is connected to the sensor mount frame 2F via the third bracket 37C. That is, the switch 42 is supported on the sensor mount frame 2F via the second bracket 37B and the third bracket 37C. The second bracket 37B will be detailed later.

[0124] The third bracket 37C is a plate body bent in an L-shape or a substantially L-shape. The third bracket 37C includes a support plate 55 and a connection frame 56. The support plate 55 extends laterally from the lower edge of the connection frame 56. The support plate 55 is in the form of a rectangular plate or a substantially rectangular plate elongated in the front-rear direction when viewed from above. The third bracket 37C is supported and fixed at the sensor mount frame 2F of the machine body 2 at the support plate 55.

[0125] Specifically, the sensor mount frame 2F of the machine body 2 includes third bracket mount hole(s) 27 as bolt through hole(s). The third bracket 37C also includes second connection hole(s) 57 as bolt through hole(s) similarly to the sensor mount frame 2F. Each second connection hole 57 is provided in the support plate 55. The sensor bracket 37 includes third bracket fastener(s) 58. Each of the third bracket fasteners 58 includes a third connecting bolt 58A and a third connecting nut 58B.

[0126] The third bracket 37C is provided such that the lower surface of the support plate 55 is placed on (overlaps) the upper surface of the sensor mount frame 2F. That is, the support plate 55 is provided on the sensor mount frame 2F such that the support plate 55 overlaps the sensor mount frame 2F when viewed in the up-down direction (first direction). The third connecting nut 58B is provided on the lower surface of the sensor mount frame 2F. The third connecting bolt 58A is connected to the third connecting nut 58B from the upper surface of the support plate 55 through the second connection hole 57 and the third bracket mount hole 27 of the sensor mount frame 2F. With this, the support plate 55 is fixed to the sensor mount frame 2F such that the surface of the support plate 55 and the surface of the machine body 2 face each other. Thus, the third bracket 37C is supported at the upper portion of the sensor mount frame 2F.

[0127] The third connecting nut 58B may be fixed to the sensor mount frame 2F. For example, the third connecting nut 58B of the present example embodiment is a weld nut, and fixed to the sensor mount frame 2F by welding. With this, when a user fixes the third bracket 37C to the sensor mount frame 2F as described above, the user does not need to hold the third connecting nut 58B with fingers.

[0128] The third bracket 37C of the present example embodiment includes two second connection holes 57. The second connection holes 57 are arranged in the front-rear direction in the support plate 55. The sensor mount frame 2F also includes two third bracket mount holes 27 similarly to the third bracket 37C. The third bracket mount holes 27 are arranged in the front-rear direction in the sensor mount frame 2F. Therefore, the third bracket 37C is fixed to the sensor mount frame 2F at two front and rear points by two sets of the third connecting bolt 58A and the third connecting nut 58B.

[0129] Each second connection hole 57 of the third bracket 37C is an elongated hole. The second connection hole 57 has a width in the left-right direction equal to or substantially equal to the bolt diameter of the third connecting bolt 58A, and a length in the front-rear direction greater than the bolt diameter. That is, the second connection hole 57 extends in the front-rear direction in the support plate 55.

[0130] On the other hand, each third bracket mount hole 27 of the sensor mount frame 2F is a circular hole. The third bracket mount hole 27 is a hole having a diameter equal to or substantially equal to the bolt diameter of the third connecting bolt 58A. Therefore, when each third connecting bolt 58A is loosened, the third bracket 37C is allowed to move in the front-rear direction along the sensor mount frame 2F within a predetermined range. Thus, the third bracket 37C is connected to the sensor mount frame 2F such that the third bracket 37C is allowed to change a position thereof in the front-rear direction (third direction perpendicular to the first direction) relative to the sensor mount frame 2F.

[0131] It is noted that, similarly to the third bracket mount holes 27 of the sensor mount frame 2F, the second connection hole 57 of the third bracket 37C may each be a circular hole having a diameter equal to or substantially equal to the bolt diameter of the third connecting bolt 58A. In this case, the third bracket 37C is fixed to the sensor mount frame 2F such that the third bracket 37C is fixed in position with respect to the sensor mount frame 2F.

[0132] As shown in FIGS. 8, 9, and 11, the third bracket 37C includes a first guide portion 60. The first guide portion 60 includes a guide frame 60A. The guide frame 60A is provided on a lower surface portion of the support plate 55. The guide frame 60A is a protruding piece having a plate shape.

[0133] As shown in FIGS. 8 and 11, the guide frame 60A extends in the front-rear direction along the lower surface portion of the support plate 55, and is engaged with a side edge portion 20 of the sensor mount frame 2F from the side. With this, when the third bracket 37C slides along the sensor mount frame 2F, the third bracket 37C is accurately guided in the front-rear direction. Thus, the guide frame 60A guides the third bracket 37C in the front-rear direction (third direction) with respect to the sensor mount frame 2F. That is, the first guide portion 60 guides the third bracket 37C in the front-rear direction (third direction).

[0134] It is noted that, provided that the guide frame 60A accurately guides the third bracket 37C along the side edge portion 20 of the sensor mount frame 2F, the guide frame 60A is not limited to a protruding piece having a plate shape elongated in the front-rear direction. For example, the guide frame 60A may be a plurality of small pieces arranged in the front-rear direction on the lower surface portion of the support plate 55. Alternatively, the guide frame 60A may be a shaft body in the form of a column or a prism extending downward from the lower surface portion of the support plate 55.

[0135] The connection frame 56 extends upward from a side edge portion of the support plate 55. That is, the connection frame 56 is provided upright along the side edge portion of the support plate 55. The connection frame 56 is in the form of a trapezoidal or a substantially trapezoidal plate elongated in the front-rear direction in a side view. The second bracket 37B is supported on and fixed to the side portion of the connection frame 56 in an upright manner. Thus, the connection frame 56 is provided on the second bracket 37B such that the connection frame 56 overlaps the second bracket 37B when viewed in the left-right direction (second direction perpendicular to the first direction).

[0136] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 11, the third bracket 37C includes second bracket mount hole(s) 61 as bolt through hole(s). Each second bracket mount hole 61 is provided in the connection frame 56. The second bracket 37B includes third connection hole(s) 62 as bolt through hole(s) similarly to the third bracket 37C. As shown in FIG. 10, the sensor bracket 37 includes second bracket fastener(s) 63. Each of the second bracket fasteners 63 includes a second connecting bolt 63A and a second connecting nut 63B.

[0137] The second bracket 37B is positioned such that a first side surface S5 of the second bracket 37B is placed on (overlaps) an outside surface S7 of the connection frame 56 of the third bracket 37C. The second connecting nut 63B is provided on an inside surface S8 of the connection frame 56. The second connecting bolt 63A is connected to the second connecting nut 63B from a second side surface S6 of the second bracket 37B through the third connection hole 62 and the second bracket mount hole 61 of the connection frame 56. With this, the second bracket 37B is fixed to the connection frame 56 such that the second bracket 37B overlaps the connection frame 56 when viewed in the left-right direction. Thus, the second bracket 37B is supported by a side portion of the third bracket 37C.

[0138] The second connecting nut 63B may be fixed to the third bracket 37C. For example, the second connecting nut 63B of the present example embodiment is a weld nut, and fixed to the connection frame 56 of the third bracket 37C by welding. With this, when a user fixes the second bracket 37B to the third bracket 37C as described above, the user does not need to hold the second connecting nut 63B with fingers.

[0139] The third bracket 37C of the present example embodiment includes two second bracket mount holes 61. The second bracket mount holes 61 are arranged in the front-rear direction at the center or substantially center of the connection frame 56 in the up-down direction. The second bracket 37B includes two third connection holes 62 similarly to the third bracket 37C. The third connection holes 62 are arranged in the front-rear direction at positions higher than the center of the second bracket 37B in the up-down direction. Therefore, the second bracket 37B is fixed to the third bracket 37C at two front and rear points by two pairs of the second connecting bolt 63A and the second connecting nut 63B.

[0140] As shown in FIGS. 9-11, the third bracket 37C includes a guide groove 65A. The guide groove 65A is provided in the connection frame 56. The guide groove 65A extends in the up-down direction in the connection frame 56. The guide groove 65A of the present example embodiment is a slit, and extends downward from an upper edge E1 of the connection frame 56. As shown in FIG. 9, the guide groove 65A extends in the same direction as the support shaft center line L1.

[0141] As shown in FIG. 8, the guide groove 65A has a groove width (width in the front-rear direction) equal to or substantially equal to the dimension in the front-rear direction of a guide protrusion 65B provided on the second bracket 37B. The guide groove 65A holds the guide protrusion 65B such that the guide protrusion 65B is allowed to move along the direction of extension of the guide groove 65A, i.e., the up-down direction of the connection frame 56.

[0142] It is noted that, provided that it is possible to hold the guide protrusion 65B such that the guide protrusion 65B is allowed to move along the up-down direction of the connection frame 56, the guide groove 65A is not limited to a slit. For example, the guide groove 65A may be a recessed groove in the outside surface S7 of the connection frame 56. Alternatively, the guide groove 65A may be an elongated hole penetrating the connection frame 56 (connecting the outside surface S7 and the inside surface S8 of the connection frame 56).

[0143] As shown in FIG. 11, the second bracket mount holes 61 are forward and rearward of the guide groove 65A of the connection frame 56, respectively. That is, the second bracket mount holes 61 are arranged in the front-rear direction with the guide groove 65A therebetween. Therefore, the second bracket 37B is fixed to the connection frame 56 of the third bracket 37C at two front and rear points with the guide groove 65A therebetween.

[0144] As shown in FIGS. 9-11, the second bracket 37B includes the third connection hole(s) 62. The third connection hole 62 is an elongated hole. The third connection hole 62 has a width in the front-rear direction equal to or substantially equal to the bolt diameter of the second connecting bolt 63A, and a length in the up-down direction greater than the bolt diameter. That is, the third connection hole 62 extends in the up-down direction in the second bracket 37B.

[0145] On the other hand, each second bracket mount hole 61 of the connection frame 56 is a circular hole. The second bracket mount hole 61 is a hole having a diameter equal to or substantially equal to the bolt diameter of the second connecting bolt 63A. Therefore, when each second connecting bolt 63A is loosened, the second bracket 37B is allowed to slide in the up-down direction along the connection frame 56 within a predetermined range. That is, the second bracket 37B is connected to the third bracket 37C such that the second bracket 37B is allowed to change a position thereof relative to the third bracket 37C in the up-down direction (first direction), which is a direction along which the second bracket 37B approaches and moves away from the magnets 41.

[0146] The second bracket 37B includes the guide protrusion 65B. The guide protrusion 65B is provided on the first side surface S5 of the second bracket 37B, i.e., on a surface that faces the connection frame 56. The guide protrusion 65B protrudes outward in the left-right direction (toward the connection frame 56) from the first side surface S5. The guide protrusion 65B extends in the up-down direction on the second bracket 37B.

[0147] The guide protrusion 65B of the present example embodiment is a protruding piece having a plate shape. The guide protrusion 65B is provided at the upper end portion of the second bracket 37B such that the plate surfaces face forward and rearward. The guide protrusion 65B extends downward from an upper edge E2 of the second bracket 37B. As shown in FIG. 9, the guide protrusion 65B extends in the same direction as the support shaft center line L1 in a side view.

[0148] As shown in FIG. 8, the guide protrusion 65B has a plate width (width in the front-rear direction) equal to or substantially equal to the width of the guide groove 65A in the front-rear direction. The guide protrusion 65B is inserted into the guide groove 65A from the outside surface S7 of the connection frame 56. With this, the guide protrusion 65B is inserted into the guide groove 65A such that the guide protrusion 65B is allowed to slide along the up-down direction (first direction) with respect to the guide groove 65A. With the guide groove 65A and the guide protrusion 65B, the second bracket 37B engages and is held by the connection frame 56 such that the second bracket 37B is allowed to move along the up-down direction relative to the connection frame 56.

[0149] As described above, the guide groove 65A and the guide protrusion 65B define a second guide portion 65 to guide the second bracket 37B in the up-down direction relative to the connection frame 56 of the third bracket 37C. That is, the sensor bracket 37 includes the second guide portion 65 to guide the movement of the second bracket 37B along the up-down direction (first direction). The second guide portion 65 includes the guide groove 65A and the guide protrusion 65B.

[0150] It is noted that, provided that the guide protrusion 65B is allowed to smoothly move in the up-down direction along the guide groove 65A, the guide protrusion 65B is not limited to a protruding piece having a plate shape. For example, the guide protrusion 65B may be a protruding piece having a hook shape. Alternatively, the guide protrusion 65B may be a shaft body in the form of a column or a prism.

[0151] As shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the second bracket 37B may include a finger hooking portion 67. The finger hooking portion 67 is a protrusion for a user to place finger(s) when the user adjusts the position of the second bracket 37B in the up-down direction (first direction). The finger hooking portion 67 of the present example embodiment is a protruding piece having a plate shape.

[0152] The finger hooking portion 67 is provided on the second side surface S6 of the second bracket 37B. That is, the finger hooking portion 67 is provided on a surface of the second bracket 37B that is opposite the surface where the guide protrusion 65B is provided. The finger hooking portion 67 is provided, similarly to the guide protrusion 65B, at the upper end portion of the second bracket 37B such that the plate surfaces face forward and rearward. The finger hooking portion 67, similarly to the guide protrusion 65B, extends downward from the upper edge E2 of the second bracket 37B.

[0153] The finger hooking portion 67 and the guide protrusion 65B are positioned symmetrically in the left-right direction with the second bracket 37B therebetween. The finger hooking portion 67 of the present example embodiment is made of a single plate body which also functions as the guide protrusion 65B. That is, the guide protrusion 65B and the finger hooking portion 67 are integral with each other and made of a single plate body, and fixed to the upper end portion of the second bracket 37B by welding or the like.

[0154] It is noted that the guide protrusion 65B and the finger hooking portion 67 may be provided independently of each other. The position of the finger hooking portion 67 is not limited to the upper end portion of the second bracket 37B, provided that the user can smoothly adjust the position of the second bracket 37B by finger(s). For example, the finger hooking portion 67 may be provided at the center or substantially center of the second bracket 37B in the up-down direction. Alternatively, the finger hooking portion 67 may be provided at the lower end portion of the second bracket 37B. The finger hooking portion 67 may be provided at the front end portion of the second bracket 37B or may be provided at the rear end portion of the second bracket 37B.

[0155] As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the second bracket 37B includes a switch mount hole 68. The switch mount hole 68 is located lower than the center of the second bracket 37B in the up-down direction. As shown in FIG. 11, the switch 42 is fixed to the second bracket 37B through the switch mount hole 68 by a fixing screw 71 and a nut 72.

[0156] As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the second bracket 37B may include a protrusion engagement hole 69. The protrusion engagement hole 69 is located lower than the center of the second bracket 37B in the up-down direction. As shown in FIG. 11, the switch 42 includes a positioning protrusion 73. The positioning protrusion 73 is fitted into the protrusion engagement hole 69 of the second bracket 37B. This allows the switch 42 to be fixed to the second bracket 37B in a constant orientation by the fixing screw 71 and the fixing nut 72.

[0157] The present invention provides working machines 1 described in the following items.

[0158] (Item 1) A working machine 1 including a machine body 2, a traveling device 3 to support the machine body 2 such that the machine body 2 is allowed to travel, an operating lever 21 to operate the traveling device 3, and an operation sensor 40 to detect an operation of the operating lever 21, wherein the operating lever 21 includes a lever portion 31, a support shaft portion 32 to rotate in a circumferential direction as the lever portion 31 is pivoted, and a sensor bracket 37 to support the operation sensor 40, the operation sensor 40 includes a magnet 41, and a switch 42 to be switched between an ON state and an OFF state in response to the magnet 41 approaching or moving away from a predetermined detection position, the machine body 2 includes a sensor mount frame 2F to support the sensor bracket 37, the sensor bracket 37 includes a first bracket 37A attached to an outer periphery of the support shaft portion 32 to support the magnet 41, a second bracket 37B to attach the switch 42 thereto, and a third bracket 37C to connect the second bracket 37B to the sensor mount frame 2F and support the switch 42 at a position where the switch 42 is allowed to detect the magnet 41 at or in a vicinity of the detection position, and the second bracket 37B is connected to the third bracket 37C such that the second bracket 37B is allowed to change a position thereof in a first direction along which the second bracket 37B approaches and moves away from the magnet 41.

[0159] With the working machine 1 according to item 1, by changing the position of the second bracket 37B relative to the third bracket 37C, it is possible to adjust relative positions of the magnet(s) 41 and the switch 42 easily and accurately. This improves the ease of installation of the operation sensor 40.

[0160] (Item 2) The working machine 1 according to item 1, wherein the sensor bracket 37 includes a second guide portion 65 to guide a movement of the second bracket 37B along the first direction, and a second bracket fastener 63 to fix the second bracket 37B to the third bracket 37C at any of positions along which the second bracket 37B is guided by the second guide portion 65.

[0161] With the working machine 1 according to item 2, it is possible to adjust and fix the relative positions of the magnet(s) 41 and the switch 42 along the first direction more easily and accurately, and therefore the ease of installation of the operation sensor 40 is further improved.

[0162] (Item 3) The working machine 1 according to item 2, wherein the second guide portion 65 includes a guide groove 65A in one of the second bracket 37B or the third bracket 37C, and a guide protrusion 65B provided on the other of the second bracket 37B or the third bracket 37C to be inserted into the guide groove 65A such that the guide protrusion 65B is allowed to slide along the first direction.

[0163] With the working machine 1 according to item 3, it is possible to adjust the position of the switch 42 in the first direction along the guide groove 65A easily and accurately, and therefore the ease of installation of the operation sensor 40 is further improved.

[0164] (Item 4) The working machine 1 according to item 3, wherein the third bracket 37C includes a support plate 55 provided on the sensor mount frame 2F such that the support plate 55 overlaps the sensor mount frame 2F when viewed in the first direction, and a connection frame 56 provided upright along a side edge portion of the support plate 55 and provided on the second bracket 37B such that the connection frame 56 overlaps the second bracket 37B when viewed in a second direction which is perpendicular to the first direction, the guide groove 65A is provided in the connection frame 56, and the guide protrusion 65B is provided on the second bracket 37B.

[0165] With the working machine 1 according to item 4, it is possible to adjust the position of the second bracket 37B in the first direction along the connection frame 56 of the third bracket 37C, making it possible to adjust the position of the switch 42 more easily and accurately. This further improves the ease of installation of the operation sensor 40.

[0166] (Item 5) The working machine 1 according to item 4, wherein the second bracket 37B includes a finger hooking portion 67 to allow a user to hook a finger when adjusting a position of the second bracket 37B in the first direction.

[0167] With the working machine 1 according to item 5, even if the space inside the machine body 2 is small, it is possible for the user to adjust the position of the second bracket 37B, i.e., the position of the switch 42, in the up-down direction easily by using the finger hooking portion 67, and therefore the ease of installation of the operation sensor 40 is further improved.

[0168] (Item 6) The working machine 1 according to item 5, wherein the guide protrusion 65B is provided on a first side surface S5 of the second bracket 37B that faces the connection frame 56, and the finger hooking portion 67 is provided on a second side surface S6 of the second bracket 37B that is opposite the first side surface S5.

[0169] With the working machine 1 according to item 6, the finger hooking portion 67 functions as a positional reference for the guide protrusion 65B on the second bracket 37B, making it possible for the user to smoothly insert the guide protrusion 65B into the guide groove 65A. This further improves the ease of installation of the operation sensor 40.

[0170] (Item 7) The working machine 1 according to any one of items 1 to 6, wherein the third bracket 37C is connected to the sensor mount frame 2F such that the third bracket 37C is allowed to change a position thereof along a third direction which is perpendicular to the first direction.

[0171] With the working machine 1 according to item 7, it possible, by changing the position of the third bracket 37C relative to the sensor mount frame 2F in the third direction and / or changing the position of the second bracket 37B relative to the third bracket 37C in the first direction, to adjust the relative positions of the magnet(s) 41 and the switch 42 easily and accurately. This further improves the ease of installation of the operation sensor 40.

[0172] (Item 8) The working machine 1 according to item 7, wherein the sensor bracket 37 includes a first guide portion 60 to guide the third bracket 37C along the third direction, and a third bracket fastener 58 to fix the third bracket 37C to the sensor mount frame 2F at any of positions along which the third bracket 37C is guided by the first guide portion 60.

[0173] With the working machine 1 according to item 8, it is possible to adjust and fix the relative positions of the magnet(s) 41 and the switch 42 in the third direction more easily and accurately, and therefore the ease of installation of the operation sensor 40 is further improved.

[0174] (Item 9) The working machine 1 according to item 8, wherein the first guide portion 60 includes a guide frame 60A engaged with a side edge portion 20 of the sensor mount frame 2F to guide the third bracket 37C along the third direction along the side edge portion 20.

[0175] With the working machine 1 according to item 9, it is possible to adjust the position of the switch 42 in the third direction along the side edge portion 20 of the sensor mount frame 2F more easily and accurately, and therefore the ease of installation of the operation sensor 40 is further improved.

[0176] (Item 10) The working machine 1 according to any one of items 1 to 9, wherein the magnet 41 includes a first magnet 41A to approach the detection position when the support shaft portion 32 rotates in a direction that causes the traveling device 3 to travel forward, and a second magnet 41B to approach the detection position when the support shaft portion 32 rotates in a direction that causes the traveling device 3 to travel rearward, and the first magnet 41A and the second magnet 41B are provided on the first bracket 37A such that the first magnet 41A and the second magnet 41B are arranged at an interval therebetween in a direction in which the support shaft portion 32 rotates.

[0177] With the working machine 1 according to item 10, it is possible, using a single switch 42, to detect operations of the operating lever 21 toward a plurality of operating positions to cause the traveling device 3 to travel forward and rearward, making it possible to reduce the time and effort when attaching the operation sensor 40 compared to cases where a plurality of switches 42 detect the respective operations of the operating lever 21 toward a plurality of operating positions.

[0178] (Item 11) The working machine 1 according to item 10, wherein the operation sensor 40 includes a magnetic-flux short-circuit portion 43 provided between the first magnet 41A and the second magnet 41B to short-circuit a magnetic flux between the first magnet 41A and the second magnet 41B.

[0179] With the working machine 1 according to item 11, it is possible, using a single switch 42, to accurately detect operations of the operating lever 21 toward a plurality of operating positions to cause the traveling device 3 to travel forward and rearward and provide a notification via the notifier 10, making it possible to reduce the time and effort to attach the operation sensor 40 and achieve better safety.

[0180] (Item 12) The working machine 1 according to any one of items 1 to 11, further including a notifier 10 to provide a notification indicating that the traveling device 3 is driven, wherein the detection position is defined at a neutral position of the operating lever 21, and the notifier 10 is configured to provide the notification indicating that the traveling device 3 is driven when the operation sensor 40 detects that the operating lever 21 is operated in a forward travel direction or in a rearward travel direction from the neutral position.

[0181] With the working machine 1 according to item 12, it is possible to accurately detect the operation of the operating lever 21 in the forward travel direction, the operation of the operating lever 21 in the rearward travel direction, and the operation of the operating lever 21 toward the neutral position using a single operation sensor 40, and provide a notification indicating that the traveling device 3 is driven, making it possible to reduce the time and effort to attach the operation sensor 40 and achieve high safety.

[0182] While example embodiments of the present invention have been described above, it is to be understood that variations and modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention. The scope of the present invention, therefore, is to be determined solely by the following claims.

Claims

1. A working machine comprising:a machine body;a traveling device to support the machine body such that the machine body is allowed to travel;an operating lever to operate the traveling device; andan operation sensor to detect an operation of the operating lever; whereinthe operating lever includes a lever portion, a support shaft portion to rotate in a circumferential direction as the lever portion is pivoted, and a sensor bracket to support the operation sensor;the operation sensor includes a magnet, and a switch to be switched between an ON state and an OFF state in response to the magnet approaching or moving away from a predetermined detection position;the machine body includes a sensor mount frame to support the sensor bracket;the sensor bracket includes:a first bracket attached to an outer periphery of the support shaft portion to support the magnet;a second bracket to attach the switch thereto; anda third bracket to connect the second bracket to the sensor mount frame and support the switch at a position where the switch is allowed to detect the magnet at or in a vicinity of the detection position; andthe second bracket is connected to the third bracket such that the second bracket is allowed to change a position thereof in a first direction along which the second bracket approaches and moves away from the magnet.

2. The working machine according to claim 1, whereinthe sensor bracket includes:a second guide portion to guide a movement of the second bracket along the first direction; anda second bracket fastener to fix the second bracket to the third bracket at any of positions along which the second bracket is guided by the second guide portion.

3. The working machine according to claim 2, whereinthe second guide portion includes:a guide groove in one of the second bracket or the third bracket; anda guide protrusion provided on the other of the second bracket or the third bracket to be inserted into the guide groove such that the guide protrusion is allowed to slide along the first direction.

4. The working machine according to claim 3, wherein:the third bracket includes:a support plate provided on the sensor mount frame such that the support plate overlaps the sensor mount frame when viewed in the first direction; anda connection frame provided upright along a side edge portion of the support plate and provided on the second bracket such that the connection frame overlaps the second bracket when viewed in a second direction which is perpendicular to the first direction;the guide groove is provided in the connection frame; andthe guide protrusion is provided on the second bracket.

5. The working machine according to claim 4, whereinthe second bracket includes a finger hooking portion to allow a user to hook a finger when adjusting a position of the second bracket in the first direction.

6. The working machine according to claim 5, whereinthe guide protrusion is provided on a first side surface of the second bracket that faces the connection frame; andthe finger hooking portion is provided on a second side surface of the second bracket that is opposite the first side surface.

7. The working machine according to claim 1, whereinthe third bracket is connected to the sensor mount frame such that the third bracket is allowed to change a position thereof along a third direction which is perpendicular to the first direction.

8. The working machine according to claim 7, whereinthe sensor bracket includes:a first guide portion to guide the third bracket along the third direction; anda third bracket fastener to fix the third bracket to the sensor mount frame at any of positions along which the third bracket is guided by the first guide portion.

9. The working machine according to claim 8, wherein the first guide portion includes a guide frame engaged with a side edge portion of the sensor mount frame to guide the third bracket along the third direction along the side edge portion.

10. The working machine according to claim 1, wherein:the magnet includes:a first magnet to approach the detection position when the support shaft portion rotates in a direction that causes the traveling device to travel forward; anda second magnet to approach the detection position when the support shaft portion rotates in a direction that causes the traveling device to travel rearward; andthe first magnet and the second magnet are provided on the first bracket such that the first magnet and the second magnet are arranged at an interval therebetween in a direction in which the support shaft portion rotates.

11. The working machine according to claim 10, whereinthe operation sensor includes a magnetic-flux short-circuit portion provided between the first magnet and the second magnet to short-circuit a magnetic flux between the first magnet and the second magnet.

12. The working machine according to claim 1, further comprising a notifier to provide a notification indicating that the traveling device is driven; whereinthe detection position is defined at a neutral position of the operating lever; andthe notifier is configured to provide the notification indicating that the traveling device is driven when the operation sensor detects that the operating lever is operated in a forward travel direction or in a rearward travel direction from the neutral position.

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