Work machine

Abstract

This work machine comprises: an operation device to which at least one function among a plurality of functions including a specific function can be selectively assigned; a display device that displays information about the function assigned to the operation device; and a controller that executes the function assigned to the operation device. The controller assigns the specific function to the operation device when an abnormality of the display device is detected.

Description

Work machine

[0001] The present invention relates to a work machine.

[0002] In work machines such as hydraulic excavators, an operation unit (operation means) for changing various set values used for adjusting the rotational speed of the engine and controlling the work machine is provided around the driver's seat. In recent years, with the increasing multifunctionality of work machines, the number of operation units has tended to increase. When the number of operation units increases, the number of parts increases, leading to an increase in manufacturing costs. For this reason, a technique of allocating a plurality of functions to one operation unit has been proposed (see Patent Document 1).

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses a work machine including a dial that accepts a rotation operation, a display unit, an engine operation function for adjusting the rotational speed of the engine, and an allocation unit that selectively allocates any one of the functions to the dial, the function being an operation according to the screen displayed on the display unit.

[0004] Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2022-26000

[0005] However, in the technique described in Patent Document 1, when an abnormality such as a failure of the display unit occurs and the function assigned to the operation of the operation device cannot be confirmed by the display unit, there is a risk that a function different from the operator's operation intention will be executed.

[0006] An object of the present invention is to provide a work machine capable of preventing a function different from the operator's operation intention from being executed when an abnormality occurs in the display device.

[0007] A work machine according to an aspect of the present invention includes an operation device capable of selectively allocating at least one function among a plurality of functions including a specific function, a display device that displays information on the functions assigned to the operation device, and a controller that executes the functions assigned to the operation device. When the controller detects an abnormality in the display device, the controller assigns the specific function to the operation device.

[0008] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a work machine that can prevent a function other than the operator's intention from being executed when a malfunction occurs in the display device.

[0009] Figure 1 is a side view of a hydraulic excavator, an example of a work machine. Figure 2 is a diagram showing the interior of the operator's cab. Figure 3 is an external view of the control unit. Figure 4 is a table showing the functions assigned to each operation when work mode, air conditioning mode, and audio mode are set. Figure 5 is a table showing the functions assigned to each operation when menu mode and abnormal mode are set. Figure 6 is a diagram showing how to change modes using the control unit. Figure 7 is a diagram showing guide images for each mode (each normal mode). Figure 8 is a diagram showing an example of a monitoring screen displayed on the touch panel monitor. Figure 9 is a diagram showing an example of a menu screen displayed on the touch panel monitor. Figure 10 is a functional block diagram of the controller. Figure 11 is a functional block diagram showing the details of the functions of the overall control unit. Figure 12 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing flow of the switching unit. Figure 13 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing flow of the operation processing unit. Figure 14 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing flow of each in basic mode. Figure 15 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing flow of each in menu mode. Figure 16 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing flow of each in abnormal mode. Figure 17 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing flow of the mode setting unit. Figure 18 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing flow of the state determination unit.

[0010] A working machine according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0011] - Configuration of a Hydraulic Excavator - Figure 1 is a side view of a hydraulic excavator 20, which is an example of a work machine. As shown in Figure 1, the hydraulic excavator 20 comprises a body (machine) 21 and a multi-jointed work device 22 attached to the body 21. The body 21 has an upper slewing body 1d and a lower traveling body 1e. The work device 22 has a boom 1a, an arm 1b, and a bucket 1c that rotate vertically, respectively. The base end of the boom 1a is rotatably supported at the front of the upper slewing body 1d, the base end of the arm 1b is rotatably supported at the tip of the boom 1a, and the bucket 1c is rotatably supported at the tip of the arm 1b.

[0012] The boom 1a is driven by the boom cylinder 2a, the arm 1b is driven by the arm cylinder 2b, and the bucket 1c is driven by the bucket cylinder 2c. The upper slewing body 1d is driven to slewing relative to the lower traveling body 1e by the slewing motor 3d. The lower traveling body 1e is driven to move by the left and right traveling motors 3e.

[0013] The upper slewing body 1d is equipped with an operator's cab 1f and a machine room 1g. Inside the machine room 1g are an engine 5, a hydraulic pump 6, and control valves for operating the hydraulic excavator 20. The engine 5 is a power unit that rotationally drives the hydraulic pump 6. The hydraulic pump 6 is rotationally driven by the power supplied from the engine 5 and discharges hydraulic fluid. The hydraulic fluid discharged from the hydraulic pump 6 is supplied through control valves to the hydraulic actuators, which are the boom cylinder 2a, arm cylinder 2b, bucket cylinder 2c, slewing motor 3d, and travel motor 3e. Also inside the machine room 1g is a controller 100 that controls the engine 5, hydraulic pump 6, and control valves. The upper slewing body 1d is equipped with multiple cameras 8 for photographing the area around the hydraulic excavator 20.

[0014] -Operator's Cabin- Figure 2 shows the interior of the operator's cab 1f. Inside the operator's cab 1f, there is an operator's seat where the operator sits, and several electric control levers 9 are installed. The multiple control levers 9 include control levers 9a and 9b for operating the work device 22 and the upper slewing body 1d, and control levers 9c and 9d for operating the lower traveling body 1e. Control levers 9a and 9b can be operated in four directions: forward, backward, left, and right. Depending on the direction of operation of control levers 9a and 9b, the boom 1a, arm 1b, bucket 1c, and upper slewing body 1d that make up the work device 22 move. Control levers 9c and 9d can be operated in two directions: forward and backward. Depending on the direction of operation of control levers 9c and 9d, the left and right travel motors 3e attached to the lower traveling body 1e move.

[0015] A shut-off lever 10 is provided in the driver's cab 1f, which can disable the operation of the operating lever 9. When the shut-off lever 10 is operated to the locked position, the operation of the operating lever 9 is disabled. When the shut-off lever 10 is operated to the unlocked position, the controller 100 converts the amount of movement of the operating lever 9 into a control command value for the hydraulic actuator and outputs a control command according to the control command value. The control valve controls the flow rate of hydraulic fluid supplied from the hydraulic pump 6 to the hydraulic actuator according to the control command output from the controller 100.

[0016] A touch panel monitor 12 is installed in the front right of the driver's cab 1f. The touch panel monitor 12 comprises a display device such as a liquid crystal display with a display screen, and an input device (input unit) which is a touch sensor superimposed on the display screen. The display device of the touch panel monitor 12 displays operating information of the hydraulic excavator 20, various setting statuses, and images captured by the camera 8. The input device of the touch panel monitor 12 inputs operation information corresponding to the operator's touch operation to the controller 100. A control unit 15 capable of multiple operations is installed to the right of the driver's seat in the driver's cab 1f. The control unit 15 can perform operations on various settings related to the hydraulic excavator 20.

[0017] -Configuration of the Operating Unit- The configuration of the operating unit 15 will be described with reference to Figure 3. Figure 3 is an external view of the operating unit 15. As shown in Figure 3, the operating unit 15 has a jog dial 13 and four push buttons 14. The jog dial 13 is an operating device that can be slid in the sliding direction (left and right and up and down directions as shown), pressed in the pressing direction (towards the back of the page), and rotated in the rotation direction (clockwise or counterclockwise). The four push buttons 14 are well-known momentary type operators that output an ON signal to the controller 100 while being pressed and stop outputting the ON signal to the controller 100 when released.

[0018] In this embodiment, operation information from the operation units (jog dial 13 and push buttons 14) constituting the operation unit 15 is output to the controller 100 at a predetermined control cycle, regardless of whether each operation unit is being operated or not. Hereinafter, the push button 14 in the upper left of the figure will also be referred to as the first button 14a, the push button 14 in the upper right of the figure as the second button 14b, the push button 14 in the lower left of the figure as the third button 14c, and the push button 14 in the lower right of the figure as the fourth button 14d.

[0019] - Functions assigned to each operation in each mode - Referring to Figures 4 to 6, the functions assigned to each operation of the operation unit 15 in each mode will be explained. The operation unit 15 is assigned functions according to the set mode. In other words, even the same operation on the same control unit may have different functions depending on the set mode. Specifically, at least one of several functions can be selectively assigned to the jog dial 13. For each of the multiple push buttons 14, one of several functions can be selectively assigned. This reduces the number of control units. In other words, it reduces the number of parts and thus reduces manufacturing costs. The modes include a work mode, an air conditioning mode, an audio mode, and a menu mode, which are normal modes that are executed under normal conditions. The controller 100 selects and sets one normal mode from among the multiple normal modes according to the operation on the operation unit 15. For each set normal mode, the controller 100 assigns normal functions to multiple operations on the operation unit 15. When the operation unit 15 receives an operation, the controller 100 executes a function assigned to that operation based on the set normal mode and the operation performed on the operation unit 15.

[0020] When normal mode is set, the functions assigned to the operation of the operation unit 15 for normal operation are displayed on the touch panel monitor 12 (see guide image 209 in Figures 7 to 9). Therefore, the operator can confirm the functions assigned to the operation of the operation unit 15 by looking at the touch panel monitor 12. If the controller 100 detects that a display abnormality has occurred, it sets the abnormal mode instead of the normal mode. A display abnormality refers to the inability of the touch panel monitor 12 to display the functions assigned to each operation for normal operation in the currently set normal mode.

[0021] Figure 4 is a table showing the functions assigned to each operation when the work mode, air conditioning mode, and audio mode are set. Figure 5 is a table showing the functions assigned to each operation when the menu mode and abnormal mode are set.

[0022] As shown in Figure 4, when the work mode is set, the rotation of the jog dial 13 is assigned the function of adjusting the indicated value of the engine 5's rotational speed between the lower limit and the upper limit, the pressing of the jog dial 13 is assigned the function of changing the mode to menu mode, and the sliding of the jog dial 13 is assigned the function of changing the mode to air conditioning mode or audio mode. In addition, when the work mode is set, the pressing of the first button 14a is assigned the function of changing the upper limit of the travel speed of the lower travel body 1e, the pressing of the second button 14b is assigned the function of changing the upper limit of the engine 5's rotational speed, the pressing of the third button 14c is assigned the function of changing the wiper's operating speed, and the pressing of the fourth button 14d is assigned the function of spraying washer fluid toward the outer surface of the glass of the operator's cab 1f. In this way, when the work mode is set, the functions that are frequently used during the operation of the hydraulic excavator 20 are assigned to each operation.

[0023] When the air conditioning mode is set, functions related to the air conditioning settings are assigned to each operation. When the air conditioning mode is set, the rotation of the jog dial 13 is assigned to the function of adjusting the air conditioning volume, the pressing of the jog dial 13 is assigned to the function of changing the mode to menu mode, and the sliding of the jog dial 13 is assigned to the function of changing the mode to work mode. In addition, when the air conditioning mode is set, the pressing of the first button 14a is assigned to the function of switching internal air circulation ON and OFF, the pressing of the second button 14b is assigned to the function of switching the automatic air conditioning ON and OFF, the pressing of the third button 14c is assigned to the function of switching the air conditioning outlet, and the pressing of the fourth button 14d is assigned to the function of switching the air conditioning power ON and OFF. Automatic air conditioning (also called full automatic control) is a function that automatically controls the outlet temperature, outlet volume, intake port, and outlet port, etc., in order to maintain the temperature inside the driver's cab 1f at the set temperature regardless of fluctuations in outside temperature and sunlight. The set temperature is controlled by a control switch (not shown) operated by the operator.

[0024] When audio mode is set, functions related to audio settings are assigned to each operation. When audio mode is set, the rotation of the jog dial 13 is assigned the function to adjust the audio volume, the pressing of the jog dial 13 is assigned the function to change the mode to menu mode, and the sliding of the jog dial 13 is assigned the function to change the mode to work mode. Also, when audio mode is set and the audio source is, for example, a radio, the pressing of the first button 14a is assigned the function to switch to the previous channel, and the pressing of the second button 14b is assigned the function to switch to the next channel. Although not shown in the diagram, when audio mode is set and the audio source is, for example, a music storage medium such as a CD, the pressing of the first button 14a is assigned the function to switch to the previous song, and the pressing of the second button 14b is assigned the function to switch to the next song. When audio mode is set, the pressing of the third button 14c is assigned the function to sequentially switch the audio source to radio, CD, etc., and the pressing of the fourth button 14d is assigned the function to switch the audio power ON and OFF.

[0025] As shown in Figure 5, when menu mode is set, the rotation and sliding operations of the jog dial 13 are assigned the function of moving the focus 618 (see Figure 9) within the menu screen 600B, and the pressing operation of the jog dial 13 is assigned the function of executing the function selected by the focus 618. In addition, when menu mode is set, the pressing operation of the first button 14a is assigned the function of returning the display screen to the previous screen, and the pressing operation of the second button 14b is assigned the function of returning the display screen to the basic screen (home screen, monitoring screen). In this embodiment, the function of returning to the basic screen (home screen, monitoring screen) is a function that switches the mode to a frequently used work mode. It is preferable that the initial mode when the system starts up is also the work mode. Note that when menu mode is set, no function is assigned to the pressing operations of the third button 14c and the fourth button 14d. In this way, when menu mode is set, functions used for operations within the menu screen 600B, such as moving the focus 618 and transitioning to the previous screen or the basic screen, are assigned to each operation.

[0026] When the abnormal mode is set, the rotation of the jog dial 13 is assigned the function of adjusting the indicated value of the engine 5's rotational speed between the lower limit and the upper limit. Also, when the abnormal mode is set, pressing the first button 14a is assigned the function of changing the upper limit of the travel speed of the lower travel body 1e, pressing the second button 14b is assigned the function of switching the ambient lights that illuminate the area around the vehicle body 21 ON and OFF, pressing the third button 14c is assigned the function of changing the operating speed of the wipers, and pressing the fourth button 14d is assigned the function of spraying washer fluid. Note that when the abnormal mode is set, no function is assigned to the pressing or sliding operation of the jog dial 13. The functions assigned to each operation when the abnormal mode is set are abnormal functions (also referred to as specific functions) necessary to move the hydraulic excavator 20 to a predetermined location, and are predetermined and stored in the non-volatile memory 122.

[0027] -Method of transitioning between modes (normal modes) using the operation unit (jog dial)- Figure 6 is a diagram showing how to change modes using the operation unit 15. In this embodiment, as described above, there are four modes that can be selected under normal circumstances as normal modes: work mode, air conditioner mode, audio mode, and menu mode. When work mode is set and the jog dial 13 is slid to the left, the mode is changed to air conditioner mode. When air conditioner mode is set and the jog dial 13 is slid to the right, the mode is changed to work mode. When work mode is set and the jog dial 13 is slid to the right, the mode is changed to audio mode. When audio mode is set and the jog dial 13 is slid to the left, the mode is changed to work mode. When work mode, air conditioner mode, or audio mode is set and the jog dial 13 is pressed, the mode is changed to menu mode.

[0028] -Guide to Assigned Functions- Refer to Figure 7 to explain the guide to the functions assigned to each control unit in each mode. Figure 7 is a diagram showing the guide images 209 for each mode (each normal mode). Note that when an abnormal mode is set, it is assumed that the touch panel monitor 12 will not display the appropriate information. For this reason, when the controller 100 sets an abnormal mode, it does not perform the process of displaying a guide image representing the functions for use in abnormal situations. However, when the controller 100 sets an abnormal mode, it is preferable to notify the operator that an abnormal mode has been set by activating a notification device different from the touch panel monitor 12 (for example, an LED or a buzzer). Note that, assuming that the display abnormality will be resolved and the system will return to normal mode, the controller 100 may pre-display the guide image 209 for the work mode when an abnormal mode is set.

[0029] As shown in Figure 7, when a work mode is set, a work guide image 209A, which is a guide image 209 for the work mode, is displayed on the touch panel monitor 12. The work guide image 209A has icons 231a to 234a and 241a to 244a. Icon 231a indicates that the function of adjusting the indicated value of the rotational speed of the engine 5 is assigned to the rotation operation of the jog dial 13. Icon 232a indicates that the function of changing the mode to menu mode is assigned to the pressing operation of the jog dial 13. Icon 233a indicates that the function of changing the mode to air conditioner mode is assigned to the sliding operation of the jog dial 13 to the left. Icon 234a indicates that the function of changing the mode to audio mode is assigned to the sliding operation of the jog dial 13 to the right. Icon 241a indicates that the function of changing the upper limit of the driving speed, more specifically, the function of switching the upper limit of the driving speed to a low speed value or a high speed value is assigned to the pressing operation of the first button 14a. Icon 242a indicates that pressing the second button 14b is assigned the function of changing the upper limit of the rotational speed of the engine 5, more specifically, the function of switching the upper limit of the rotational speed of the engine 5 to a low speed (eco mode) or a high speed (power mode). Icon 243a indicates that pressing the third button 14c is assigned the function of changing the operating speed of the wiper, more specifically, the function of switching the operating speed of the wiper to 0 (wiper stop), low speed, medium speed, or high speed. Icon 244a indicates that pressing the fourth button 14d is assigned the function of spraying washer fluid.

[0030] When the air conditioner mode is set, the air conditioner guide image 209B, which is a guide image 209 for the air conditioner mode, is displayed on the touch panel monitor 12. The air conditioner guide image 209B has icons 231b to 233b and 241b to 244b. Icon 231b indicates that the function to adjust the airflow of the air conditioner is assigned to the rotation operation of the jog dial 13. Icon 232b indicates that the function to change the mode to menu mode is assigned to the press operation of the jog dial 13. Icon 233b indicates that the function to change the mode to work mode is assigned to the slide operation of the jog dial 13 to the right. Icon 241b indicates that the function to switch the internal air circulation ON and OFF is assigned to the press operation of the first button 14a. Icon 242b indicates that the function to switch the automatic air conditioner ON and OFF is assigned to the press operation of the second button 14b. Icon 243b indicates that the function to switch the air conditioner outlet is assigned to the press operation of the third button 14c. Icon 244b indicates that pressing the fourth button 14d is assigned the function of switching the air conditioner's power ON and OFF.

[0031] When audio mode is set, the audio guide image 209C, which is a guide image 209 for audio mode, is displayed on the touch panel monitor 12. The audio guide image 209C has icons 231c to 233c and 241c to 244c. Icon 231c indicates that the function to adjust the audio volume is assigned to the rotation operation of the jog dial 13. Icon 232c indicates that the function to change the mode to menu mode is assigned to the press operation of the jog dial 13. Icon 233c indicates that the function to change the mode to work mode is assigned to the slide operation of the jog dial 13 to the left. Icon 241c indicates that the function to switch to the previous channel (or previous song) is assigned to the press operation of the first button 14a. Icon 242c indicates that the function to switch to the next channel (or next song) is assigned to the press operation of the second button 14b. Icon 243c indicates that the function to switch the audio source is assigned to the press operation of the third button 14c. Icon 244c indicates that pressing the fourth button 14d is assigned the function of switching the audio power ON and OFF.

[0032] When menu mode is set, a menu guide image 209D, which is a guide image 209 for menu mode, is displayed on the touch panel monitor 12. The menu guide image 209D has icons 231d, 232d, 241d, and 242d. Icon 231d indicates that the function to move the focus 618 (see Figure 9) in the menu screen is assigned to the rotation operation of the jog dial 13. Icon 232d indicates that the function to execute the function selected by the focus 618 is assigned to the press operation of the jog dial 13. Icon 241d indicates that the function to return the display screen to the previous screen is assigned to the press operation of the first button 14a. Icon 242d indicates that the function to return the display screen to the basic screen (home screen) is assigned to the press operation of the second button 14b.

[0033] -Contents displayed on the touch panel monitor- The contents displayed on the touch panel monitor 12's display screen will be explained with reference to Figures 8 and 9. Figure 8 is a diagram showing an example of the monitoring screen 600A displayed on the touch panel monitor 12.

[0034] As shown in Figure 8, the monitoring screen 600A is a screen displayed during operation of the hydraulic excavator 20, and is used to monitor operational information and surrounding information. In this embodiment, the monitoring screen 600A is divided into a first display area 61, a second display area 62, a third display area 63, a fourth display area 64, a fifth display area 65, and a sixth display area 66.

[0035] The first display area 61 displays multiple icons, including a driving speed icon 601 and an engine speed icon 602. The driving speed icon 601 indicates whether the upper limit of the driving speed is set to a low speed value or a high speed value. The engine speed icon 602 indicates whether the upper limit of the rotational speed of the engine 5 is set to a low speed value (eco mode) or a high speed value (power mode). The first display area 61 also displays a time image 605 representing the current time.

[0036] The second display area 62 displays a fuel gauge 606 indicating the remaining fuel level and a water temperature gauge 607 indicating the engine coolant temperature. The third display area 63 displays images captured by the camera 8. For example, as shown in the figure, the third display area 63 displays an overhead view 608 generated from the left view, right view, and rear view captured by the camera 8. In addition, although not shown in the figure, the third display area 63 may be divided into two halves, with the rear view displayed in the left division and the right view displayed in the right division.

[0037] The fourth display area 64 at the bottom left of the screen displays images representing the air conditioner's set temperature, whether internal air circulation is ON or OFF, the position of the air conditioner's outlet, and the air conditioner's airflow. The fifth display area 65 at the bottom right of the screen displays images representing the audio source, the radio station frequency (if the audio source is radio), and the audio volume.

[0038] The sixth display area 66 at the bottom center of the screen displays the guide image 209 (see Figure 7) described above. Thus, the monitoring screen 600A includes the fuel gauge 606 and water temperature gauge 607, which are frequently checked during operation, and the overhead view 608. Figure 8 shows an example where the work guide image 209A is displayed when the work mode is set, but the same content is displayed in the first to fifth display areas 61 and 65 when the air conditioning mode and audio mode are set. When the air conditioning mode is set, the air conditioning guide image 209B (see Figure 7) is displayed in the sixth display area 66, and when the audio mode is set, the audio guide image 209C (see Figure 7) is displayed in the sixth display area 66.

[0039] Figure 9 shows an example of a menu screen 600B displayed on the touch panel monitor 12. As shown in Figure 9, a menu guide image 209D is displayed in the sixth display area 66 of the menu screen 600B. In addition, a selection display area 67 is formed in the menu screen 600B in place of the second display area 62 and third display area 63 of the monitoring screen 600A. The selection display area 67 displays multiple selection target icons 612, 613, 614, 615, 616, and 617, and a focus 618 for selecting the target. In the illustrated example, the focus 618 is an image with a thick border surrounding the icons 612 to 617, but it may also be configured to invert the brightness of the icons 612 to 617.

[0040] Figure 9 shows an example of the top menu screen, which is the menu screen 600B immediately after transitioning to menu mode. The focus 618 moves in response to the rotation or sliding operation of the jog dial 13. When the jog dial 13 is pressed, the function of the selected icon selected by the focus 618 is executed. For example, if the selected icon 615 is selected by the focus 618 and the jog dial 13 is pressed, the system transitions to the vehicle information screen (not shown) for checking and setting vehicle information. Similarly, when the touch panel monitor 12 is touched, the function of the selected item is executed.

[0041] Since the method of moving and executing the focus 618 using the jog dial 13 is self-evident, the icons 231d and 232d in the menu guide image 209D shown in Figure 7 may be omitted. In other words, only the icons 241d and 242d that display the functions assigned to the first button 14a and the second button 14b may be displayed.

[0042] In this way, the operator of the hydraulic excavator 20 can normally recognize the function assigned to each operation by checking the guide image 209 displayed on the touch panel monitor 12's display screen and perform the intended operation.

[0043] If, for any reason, an anomaly occurs that prevents the operator from confirming the display content of the touch panel monitor 12, the operator will be unable to confirm the currently set mode and the functions assigned to each operation. As a result, for example, if the mode recognized by the operator differs from the mode that is actually set, there is a risk that the operation unit 15 may be operated incorrectly. In other words, there is a risk that the vehicle settings may be changed unintentionally due to the operator's misinterpretation. Possible causes of the anomaly include, for example, damage to a component (e.g., a communication line) used for communication between the controller 100 and the touch panel monitor 12, resulting in an abnormal communication state between the controller 100 and the touch panel monitor 12. In addition, if a component that controls the display screen of the touch panel monitor 12 fails, or if the screen freezes due to insufficient memory occurs, or if the LCD of the touch panel monitor 12 is cracked or partially damaged, the operator will be unable to confirm the display content of the touch panel monitor 12.

[0044] Therefore, in this embodiment, there is further an abnormal mode when the operator cannot view the guide image 209 of the touch panel monitor 12. When the touch panel monitor 12 malfunctions, the operator needs to promptly interrupt the operation. At this time, if the hydraulic excavator 20 is operating at a location such as a slope where the operator cannot disembark, it is necessary to drive the hydraulic excavator 20 to a location where the operator can safely disembark. For this reason, when the abnormal mode is set, functions (specific functions) necessary for appropriately driving the hydraulic excavator 20 to a predetermined location are assigned to the operations of the operation unit 15. For example, in order to ensure uphill driving, etc., the function of adjusting the rotational speed of the engine 5 is assigned to the operation of the operation unit 15. Also, in order to enable appropriate driving even at night, in rainy weather, etc., the function of switching on and off the surrounding lights is assigned to the operation of the operation unit 15. Further, in order to enable appropriate driving even in rainy or snowy weather, the function of changing the operating speed of the wiper and the function of injecting washer fluid are assigned to the operation of the operation unit 15.

[0045] The hardware configuration and functions of the controller 100 according to this embodiment will be described.

[0046] - Hardware Configuration of the Controller - As shown in FIG. 1, the controller 100 is composed of a computer including a processing device 121 such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), MPU (Micro Processing Unit), DSP (Digital Signal Processor), a non-volatile memory 122 such as a ROM (Read Only Memory), flash memory, hard disk drive, a volatile memory 123 called a so-called RAM (Random Access Memory), an input / output interface, and other peripheral circuits. These hardware components cooperate to operate software and realize a plurality of functions. Note that the controller 100 may be composed of one computer or multiple computers.

[0047] The non-volatile memory 122 stores programs capable of executing various operations, thresholds used in determination processing, data tables (for example, the data tables shown in FIGS. 4 and 5), and the like. That is, the non-volatile memory 122 is a storage medium (storage device) capable of reading a program for realizing the functions of the present embodiment. The volatile memory 123 is a storage medium (storage device) that temporarily stores the operation results by the processing device 121 and the signals input from the input / output interface. The processing device 121 is a device that expands the program stored in the non-volatile memory 122 into the volatile memory 123 and executes operations, and performs predetermined arithmetic processing on the data taken in from the input / output interface, the non-volatile memory 122, and the volatile memory 123 according to the program.

[0048] The input part of the input / output interface converts the signals input from various devices (the input device of the touch panel monitor 12, the camera 8, etc.) into data that can be operated by the processing device 121. Also, the output part of the input / output interface generates an output signal corresponding to the operation result in the processing device 121 and outputs the signal to various devices (the display device of the touch panel monitor 12, the engine 5, the hydraulic pump 6, the control valve, etc.).

[0049] -Functions of the Controller- Referring to FIGS. 10 to 18, the functions of the controller 100 and the processes executed by the controller 100 will be described in detail. FIG. 10 is a functional block diagram of the controller 100. As shown in FIG. 10, the controller 100 includes an operation availability determination unit 101, an operation amount detection unit 102, a device control unit 103, an image acquisition unit 105, an operation information acquisition unit 106, and a general management unit 110.

[0050] -Operation Feasibility Determination Unit- As shown in Figure 10, the operation feasibility determination unit 101 detects the operating position of the shut-off lever 10 based on the signal from the shut-off lever 10. Based on the operating position of the shut-off lever 10, the operation feasibility determination unit 101 determines whether or not the hydraulic excavator 20 is in a state where it can operate (operation of the work device 22, operation of the upper rotating body 1d, and operation of the lower traveling body 1e). If the shut-off lever 10 is operated to the locked position, the operation feasibility determination unit 101 determines that the hydraulic excavator 20 is in a state where it cannot operate and outputs the determination result to the equipment control unit 103. If the shut-off lever 10 is operated to the unlocked position, the operation feasibility determination unit 101 determines that the hydraulic excavator 20 is in a state where it can operate and outputs the determination result to the equipment control unit 103.

[0051] -Operation Amount Detection Unit- The operation amount detection unit 102 detects the amount of lever operation of the operation lever 9 based on the signal from the operation lever 9 and outputs the detection result to the equipment control unit 103. The lever operation amount is, for example, 0 when the operation lever 9 is in the neutral position, and is expressed as 1 to 100 depending on the tilt angle of the operation lever 9 from the neutral position. The direction of operation is expressed as positive or negative. Therefore, the lever operation amount is expressed in the range of -100 to 100.

[0052] -Equipment Control Unit- The equipment control unit 103 calculates a control command value for the control valve based on the determination result of the operation feasibility determination unit 101 and the detection result (lever operation amount) of the operation amount detection unit 102, and outputs a control command to the control valve according to the calculation result. The control valve operates in accordance with the control command from the controller 100, controls the flow rate of hydraulic fluid supplied from the hydraulic pump 6 to the hydraulic actuator, and drives each hydraulic actuator at a speed corresponding to the lever operation amount. The equipment control unit 103 also makes changes to various setting values ​​(for example, changing the instruction value for the rotational speed of the engine 5) based on equipment control requests from the vehicle body management unit 104 of the overall management unit 110, which will be described later.

[0053] -Image Acquisition Unit- The image acquisition unit 105 acquires video signals from the camera 8 attached to the upper rotating body 1d, performs image correction and synthesis processing as needed, and outputs the processed video data to the central management unit 110.

[0054] - Operation Information Acquisition Unit - The operation information acquisition unit 106 acquires signals from the operation units (jog dial 13 and push buttons 14) of the operation unit 15 and converts them into operation information for each operation unit. The operation information acquisition unit 106 outputs the operation information to the central management unit 110. The operation information includes, for example, the rotation direction and amount of the jog dial 13, the sliding direction of the jog dial 13, and whether or not the jog dial 13 was pressed and whether or not the push buttons 14 were pressed.

[0055] -General Control Unit- The General Control Unit 110 outputs equipment control requests to the Equipment Control Unit 103 for controlling various devices (engine 5, control valve, air conditioner, audio, wiper, etc.) based on operation information from the operation information acquisition unit 106 and touch operation information from the touch panel monitor 12. The General Control Unit 110 also outputs display control signals to the touch panel monitor 12 for displaying images corresponding to video data from the video acquisition unit 105 on the display screen of the touch panel monitor 12.

[0056] The functions of the integrated control unit 110 will be described in detail with reference to Figure 11. Figure 11 is a functional block diagram showing the details of the functions of the integrated control unit 110. As shown in Figure 11, the integrated control unit 110 includes a switching unit 107, an operation processing unit 108, a mode setting unit 109, a vehicle body management unit 104, a communication status monitoring unit 112, a status determination unit 111, and a display control unit 114.

[0057] - Forced transition to abnormal mode and return to normal mode - If the touch panel monitor 12 experiences a cracked liquid crystal, partial damage, screen freeze, etc., even if the communication status between the touch panel monitor 12 and the controller 100 is normal, the guide image 209 may not be properly visible, and the functions assigned to each operation may not be confirmed. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the normal mode is set and the operator performs an operation to transition to abnormal mode on the operation unit 15, the controller 100 sets the abnormal mode instead of the normal mode. In other words, the operation unit 15 can return from abnormal mode to normal mode by performing a transition operation. When returning to normal mode, it is preferable for the controller 100 to set a frequently used work mode from among a plurality of normal modes.

[0058] - Switching Unit - The switching unit 107 determines whether or not an operation to transition to abnormal mode has been performed on the operation unit 15, based on the operation information acquisition unit 106. The switching unit 107 also determines whether or not an operation to transition to normal mode has been performed on the operation unit 15. In this embodiment, the operation to transition from normal mode to abnormal mode, and the operation to transition from abnormal mode to normal mode, are pressing operations on both the first button 14a and the second button 14b for a predetermined time or longer. In other words, the transition operation is an operation to press and hold both push buttons 14 simultaneously.

[0059] Figure 12 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing flow of the switching unit 107. The flowchart shown in Figure 12 is started, for example, when the ignition switch of the hydraulic excavator 20 is turned on, and is executed repeatedly at a predetermined control cycle.

[0060] As shown in Figure 12, in step S110, the switching unit 107 acquires operation information from the operation information acquisition unit 106. In the next step S113, the switching unit 107 determines, based on the operation information acquired in step S110, whether simultaneous operation is being performed, that is, whether the first button 14a and the second button 14b are pressed at the same time. If both the first button 14a and the second button 14b are pressed, the switching unit 107 determines that simultaneous operation is being performed and proceeds to step S119. If neither the first button 14a nor the second button 14b are pressed, the switching unit 107 determines that simultaneous operation is not being performed and proceeds to step S116.

[0061] In step S116, the switching unit 107 outputs the operation information acquired in step S110 directly to the operation processing unit 108. Once the operation information output processing (S116) is completed, the series of processes shown in the flowchart of Figure 12 are completed, and the process proceeds to the next control cycle, and the process of step S110 is executed again.

[0062] In step S119, the switching unit 107 performs a timer reset process. In the timer reset process, the switching unit 107 sets the simultaneous operation time t, which is the duration of the simultaneous operation, to 0. When the timer reset process (S119) is completed, the process proceeds to step S122.

[0063] In step S122, the switching unit 107 determines whether the simultaneous operation time t is greater than or equal to the time threshold t0. The time threshold t0 can be set arbitrarily and should be a time that prevents incorrect input. For example, the time threshold t0 is set to about 5 [s].

[0064] In step S122, if it is determined that the simultaneous operation time t is less than the time threshold t0, the process proceeds to step S125. In step S125, the switching unit 107 acquires operation information from the operation information acquisition unit 106, similar to step S110.

[0065] In the next step S128, the switching unit 107 determines, based on the operation information acquired in step S125, whether simultaneous operation is continuing, that is, whether the pressing operations of both the first button 14a and the second button 14b are continuing. If it is determined that simultaneous operation is continuing, the process proceeds to step S131. On the other hand, if the pressing operation of at least one of the first button 14a and the second button 14b stops, the switching unit 107 determines that simultaneous operation is not continuing, that is, that simultaneous operation has been interrupted. In this case, the series of processes shown in the flowchart of Figure 12 are completed, and the process proceeds to the next control cycle, and the process of step S110 is executed again.

[0066] In step S131, the timer update process is executed. In the timer update process, the switching unit 107 adds the control cycle time width Δt to the simultaneous operation time t to obtain the new simultaneous operation time t. The timer update process (count-up process) is repeatedly executed at a predetermined control cycle until the simultaneous operation time t reaches the time threshold t0 (Yes in S122) or the simultaneous operation is interrupted (No in S128). In other words, the processes in steps S122 to S131 correspond to the process of measuring the time since the simultaneous operation started.

[0067] In step S122, if it is determined that the simultaneous operation time t is greater than or equal to the time threshold t0, that is, if it is determined that a transition operation between abnormal mode and normal mode (notification state switching operation) has been performed, the process proceeds to step S134. In step S134, the switching unit 107 outputs a notification state switching request to the state determination unit 111, indicating that a transition operation (notification state switching operation) has been performed. Once the output processing of the notification state switching request (S134) is completed, the series of processes shown in the flowchart of Figure 12 are completed, and the process proceeds to the next control cycle, and the process of step S110 is executed again.

[0068] - Operation Processing Unit - The operation processing unit 108 shown in Figure 11 performs processing to realize the functions assigned to each operation of the operation unit 15 according to the mode, based on the operation information of the operation unit (jog dial 13 and push button 14) and the information of the currently set mode (mode setting information). The operation processing unit 108 appropriately refers to a data table (Figures 4 to 6) that defines the relationship between the set mode and the operation content of the operation unit 15, and executes the processing shown in the flowcharts of Figures 13 to 16. Figure 13 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing flow of the operation processing unit 108. The flowchart shown in Figure 13 is started, for example, when the ignition switch of the hydraulic excavator 20 is turned on, and is executed repeatedly at a predetermined control cycle.

[0069] As shown in Figure 13, in step S210, the operation processing unit 108 acquires operation information from the switching unit 107. In the next step S213, the operation processing unit 108 determines, based on the operation information acquired in step S210, whether or not one of the operation parts (jog dial 13 and push button 14) of the operation unit 15 has been operated. If it is determined in step S213 that one of the operation parts (13, 14) of the operation unit 15 has been operated, the process proceeds to step S219. If it is determined that none of the operation parts (13, 14) of the operation unit 15 have been operated, the process returns to step S210, and operation information is acquired again in the next control cycle.

[0070] In step S219, the operation processing unit 108 obtains information about the currently set mode (mode setting information) from the mode setting unit 109. The mode setting information represents the mode that is set among the abnormal mode, menu mode, work mode, air conditioner mode, and audio mode.

[0071] In the next step, S222, the operation processing unit 108 determines whether the currently set mode is a normal mode based on the mode setting information acquired in step S219. The normal mode includes menu mode and basic mode. The basic mode includes work mode, air conditioner mode, and audio mode. If it is determined in step S219 that the normal mode is set, the process proceeds to step S225; if it is determined that an abnormal mode is set, the process proceeds to step S500.

[0072] In step S225, the operation processing unit 108 determines whether the currently set mode is menu mode based on the mode setting information acquired in step S219. If it is determined in step S225 that menu mode is set, the process proceeds to step S400; if it is determined that basic mode is set, the process proceeds to step S300.

[0073] - Processing in basic mode - In step S300, the operation processing unit 108 executes processing in basic mode. Figure 14 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of each process in basic mode. As shown in Figure 14, in step S313, the operation processing unit 108 determines whether or not the jog dial 13 has been slid based on the operation information acquired in step S210 (see Figure 13). If it is determined in step S313 that the jog dial 13 has been slid, the process proceeds to step S320; if it is determined that the jog dial 13 has not been slid, the process proceeds to step S316.

[0074] In step S316, the operation processing unit 108 determines whether or not the jog dial 13 has been pressed based on the operation information acquired in step S210 (see Figure 13). If it is determined in step S316 that the jog dial 13 has been pressed, the process proceeds to step S323. If it is determined that the jog dial 13 has not been pressed, the process proceeds to step S326.

[0075] In step S320, the operation processing unit 108 outputs a mode change request to the mode setting unit 109 to change to the basic mode associated with the currently set basic mode and slide operation direction, based on the operation information acquired in step S210 (see Figure 13) and the mode setting information acquired in step S219. The relationship between the slide operation direction and the basic mode after the change is defined as shown in Figure 6, as described above. The operation processing unit 108 outputs a mode change request to the mode setting unit 109 to change to another basic mode, and also outputs a screen operation request to the display control unit 114 to switch the guide image 209 of the monitoring screen (basic screen) 600A.

[0076] In step S323, the operation processing unit 108 outputs a mode change request to the mode setting unit 109 to change to menu mode, and outputs a screen operation request to the display control unit 114 to switch the screen of the touch panel monitor 12 to the menu screen 600B.

[0077] If the result in step S213 is positive and the result in steps S313 and S316 is negative, that is, if the jog dial 13 is rotated or the push button 14 is pressed, the process in step S326 is executed. In step S326, the operation processing unit 108 outputs a request to the vehicle management unit 104 to change the setting value associated with the currently set mode (one of work mode, air conditioning mode, and audio mode) and the operation content (rotation of the jog dial 13 or pressing of the push button 14) based on the operation information acquired in step S210 (see Figure 13) and the mode setting information acquired in step S219. The relationship between the operation content for each set basic mode and the request to change the setting value is defined as shown in Figure 4, as described above.

[0078] When any of steps S320, S323, or S326 is completed, the process returns to step S210 in Figure 13.

[0079] - Processing in Menu Mode - In step S400 of Figure 13, the operation processing unit 108 executes processing in menu mode. Figure 15 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of each process in menu mode. As shown in Figure 15, in step S413, the operation processing unit 108 determines whether or not the push button 14 has been pressed based on the operation information acquired in step S210 (see Figure 13). If it is determined in step S413 that the push button 14 has been pressed, the process proceeds to step S420; if it is determined that the push button 14 has not been pressed, the process proceeds to step S416.

[0080] In step S416, the operation processing unit 108 determines whether or not the jog dial 13 has been pressed based on the operation information acquired in step S210 (see Figure 13). If it is determined in step S416 that the jog dial 13 has been pressed, the process proceeds to step S423; if it is determined that the jog dial 13 has not been pressed, the process proceeds to step S426.

[0081] In step S420, the operation processing unit 108 outputs a screen operation request to the display control unit 114 to implement the function assigned in menu mode, namely the function to return to the previous screen or the basic screen (monitoring screen 600A), based on the operation information acquired in step S210 (see Figure 13). The function assigned to each push button 14 is defined as shown in Figure 5, as described above.

[0082] In step S423, the operation processing unit 108 outputs an equipment control request to the vehicle body management unit 104 to execute the process selected on the menu screen 600B.

[0083] If the result in step S213 is positive and the result in steps S413 and S416 is negative, that is, if the jog dial 13 is slid or rotated, the process in step S426 is executed. In step S426, the operation processing unit 108 outputs a request to the vehicle management unit 104 that corresponds to the operation content in the currently set menu mode, i.e., a request to move the focus on the menu screen, based on the operation information acquired in step S210 (see Figure 13). The functions assigned to the sliding and rotating operations of the jog dial 13 are defined as shown in Figure 5, as described above.

[0084] When any of steps S420, S423, or S426 is completed, the process returns to step S210 in Figure 13.

[0085] - Processing in abnormal mode - In step S500 of Figure 13, the operation processing unit 108 performs processing in abnormal mode. Figure 16 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of each process in abnormal mode. As shown in Figure 16, in step S513, the operation processing unit 108 determines whether either the rotation operation of the jog dial 13 or the pressing operation of the push button 14 has been performed, based on the operation information acquired in step S210 (see Figure 13). If it is determined in step S513 that either the rotation operation of the jog dial 13 or the pressing operation of the push button 14 has been performed, the process proceeds to step S523. If it is determined that neither the rotation operation of the jog dial 13 nor the pressing operation of the push button 14 has been performed, the process proceeds to step S520.

[0086] As shown in Figure 5, in abnormal mode, no functions are assigned to the sliding and pressing operations of the jog dial 13. Therefore, in step S520 shown in Figure 16, the operation processing unit 108 does not execute the process and returns to step S210 in Figure 13.

[0087] In step S523 of Figure 16, the operation processing unit 108, based on the operation information acquired in step S210 (see Figure 13), outputs a request to the vehicle body management unit 104 to change the setting value in order to realize the functions (see Figure 5) assigned to the rotation operation of the jog dial 13 and the pressing operation of the push button 14 in abnormal mode, and returns the process to step S210 of Figure 13.

[0088] -Mode Setting Unit (Function Assignment Management Unit)- The mode setting unit 109 shown in Figure 11 sets one of the following modes: work mode, air conditioner mode, audio mode, menu mode, or abnormal mode, based on the operation information of the operation unit 15, the information of the currently set mode (mode setting information), and the status flag representing the determination result of the status determination unit 111. Once a mode is set, functions are assigned to the operation of the operation unit 15 (jog dial 13 and the first to fourth buttons 14a to 14d) according to the data table shown in Figures 4 and 5. For this reason, the mode setting unit 109 can also be called a function assignment management unit that assigns functions to the operation unit 15.

[0089] The mode setting unit 109 executes the process shown in the flowchart of Figure 17. Figure 17 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing flow of the mode setting unit 109. The flowchart shown in Figure 17 is started, for example, when the ignition switch of the hydraulic excavator 20 is turned on, and is executed repeatedly at a predetermined control cycle.

[0090] As shown in Figure 17, in step S610, the mode setting unit 109 acquires a status flag representing the determination result of the status determination unit 111. In the next step S613, the mode setting unit 109 determines whether the status flag acquired in step S610 is a value representing "normal". If it is determined that the status flag is a value representing "normal", the process proceeds to step S614; if it is determined that the status flag is a value representing "abnormal", the process proceeds to step S630.

[0091] In step S614, the mode setting unit 109 determines whether the status flag (i.e., the previous value of the status flag) acquired in step S610 of the previous control cycle was abnormal or not. If the previous value of the status flag is determined to be abnormal, the process proceeds to step S615; if the previous value of the status flag is determined to be normal, the process proceeds to step S616.

[0092] In step S616, the mode setting unit 109 obtains screen information from the display control unit 114. The screen information includes information about the content of the screen currently displayed on the display screen. In the next step S619, the mode setting unit 109 determines whether or not the menu screen 600B is displayed on the touch panel monitor 12 based on the screen information obtained in step S616. If it is determined that the menu screen 600B is not displayed on the touch panel monitor 12, the process proceeds to step S622. If it is determined that the menu screen 600B is displayed on the touch panel monitor 12, the process proceeds to step S633.

[0093] In step S622, it is determined whether or not a mode change request has been output from the operation processing unit 108. If it is determined that a mode change request has been output, the process proceeds to step S625; if it is determined that no mode change request has been output, the process proceeds to step S636.

[0094] In step S615, the mode setting unit 109 returns the mode to the normal mode. The normal mode upon return is the work mode. In step S625, the mode setting unit 109 sets the mode in response to the mode change request output from the operation processing unit 108. In step S630, the mode setting unit 109 sets the abnormal mode. In step S633, the mode setting unit 109 sets the menu mode. In step S636, the mode setting unit 109 does not perform the mode change process and maintains the currently set mode. If the mode has been changed, the mode setting unit 109 outputs mode setting information to the operation processing unit 108 and the display control unit 114 to indicate this change.

[0095] When any of steps S615, S625, S630, S633, or S636 is completed, the control cycle proceeds to the next cycle, and the process in step S610 is executed again.

[0096] -Communication Status Monitoring Unit- The communication status monitoring unit 112 shown in Figure 11 monitors the communication status between the touch panel monitor 12 and the controller 100, and outputs the monitoring result (normal or abnormal) to the status determination unit 111. If the communication status monitoring unit 112 receives a predetermined signal from the touch panel monitor 12 at predetermined time intervals, it determines that the communication status is normal and outputs the determination result (normal) to the status determination unit 111. If the communication status monitoring unit 112 receives a signal from the touch panel monitor 12 that is different from the normal status, it determines that the communication status is abnormal and outputs the determination result (abnormal) to the status determination unit 111. If the communication status monitoring unit 112 cannot detect the connection between the touch panel monitor 12 and the controller 100 for a predetermined time or longer, i.e., if communication is interrupted, it determines that the communication status is abnormal and outputs the determination result (abnormal) to the status determination unit 111.

[0097] If an abnormality occurs in the communication state, there is a high probability that the touch panel monitor 12 will not be able to display the correct information. Therefore, the communication state monitoring unit 112 determines whether or not a display abnormality has occurred in which the touch panel monitor 12 is unable to display the functions assigned to the operation of the operation unit 15 under normal conditions. If an abnormality occurs in the communication state, the communication state monitoring unit 112 determines that a display abnormality has occurred in which the touch panel monitor 12 is unable to display the functions assigned to the operation of the operation unit 15 under normal conditions. If there is no abnormality in the communication state, the communication state monitoring unit 112 determines that no display abnormality has occurred in which the touch panel monitor 12 is unable to display the functions assigned to the operation of the operation unit 15.

[0098] -Status Determination Unit- The status determination unit 111 sets the status flag to "normal" or "abnormal" based on the communication status monitored by the communication status monitoring unit 112 and the switching request from the switching unit 107. The status determination unit 111 executes the process shown in the flowchart of Figure 18. Figure 18 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing flow of the status determination unit 111. The flowchart shown in Figure 18 is started, for example, when the ignition switch of the hydraulic excavator 20 is turned on, and is executed repeatedly at a predetermined control cycle.

[0099] As shown in Figure 18, in step S710, the state determination unit 111 obtains the communication status between the touch panel monitor 12 and the controller 100 from the communication status monitoring unit 112. In the next step S713, the state determination unit 111 determines whether the communication status obtained in step S710 is normal or not. If it is determined that the communication status is normal, the process proceeds to step S716; if it is determined that the communication status is abnormal, the process proceeds to step S730.

[0100] In step S716, the state determination unit 111 determines whether the communication state acquired in step S710 of the previous control cycle (i.e., the previous value of the communication state) was normal or not. If it is determined that the previous value of the communication state was normal, the process proceeds to step S719; if it is determined that the previous value of the communication state was abnormal, the process proceeds to step S736.

[0101] In step S719, the state determination unit 111 determines whether or not a notification state switching request has been output from the switching unit 107. If it is determined that a notification state switching request has been output, the process proceeds to step S722; if it is determined that no notification state switching request has been output, the process proceeds to step S733. The process of determining whether or not a notification state switching request has been output corresponds to the process of determining whether or not a transition operation between normal mode and abnormal mode has been performed.

[0102] In step S722, the state determination unit 111 determines whether the currently set state flag is a value representing "abnormal". This determination process is equivalent to determining whether the currently set mode is an abnormal mode. If it is determined that the currently set state flag is a value representing "abnormal", the process proceeds to step S736. If it is determined that the currently set state flag is a value representing "normal", the process proceeds to step S730.

[0103] In step S730, the status determination unit 111 sets the status flag to a value representing "abnormal". In step S733, the status determination unit 111 does not perform a status flag change process and maintains the currently set status flag. In step S736, the status determination unit 111 sets the status flag to a value representing "normal".

[0104] When any of steps S730, S733, or S736 is completed, the control cycle proceeds to the next cycle, and the process in step S710 is executed again.

[0105] The state determination unit 111 and the mode setting unit 109 will return the mode to normal mode only if an abnormal mode is set and a state switching request is output from the switching unit 107. (Yes at S719 in Figure 18, Yes at S722, S736; Yes at S610 and S613 in Figure 17, Yes at S614, S615).

[0106] Therefore, even if the operation to select one normal mode from among multiple normal modes is performed on the operation unit 15, the controller 100 does not set a normal mode and maintains the abnormal mode (No. S520 in S513 in Figure 16, No. S733 in S719 in Figure 18). In other words, the controller 100 disables the change from a specific function assigned to the operation unit 15 to another function. The controller 100 returns to the normal mode when a special operation different from the operation to select one normal mode from among multiple normal modes is performed (simultaneous pressing of the first button 14a and the second button 14b) (Yes, S134 in S122 in Figure 12, Yes, S719 in Figure 18, Yes, S722 in Figure 18, Yes, S736 in Figure 18, Yes, S610, S613 in Figure 17, Yes, S614 in Figure 17).

[0107] - Vehicle Body Management Unit - The vehicle body management unit 104 shown in Figure 11 changes various setting values ​​of the vehicle body 21 based on various requests output from the operation processing unit 108. As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the various requests correspond to commands that execute functions assigned to each operation for each mode (for example, a function to change the rotational speed of the engine 5). The vehicle body management unit 104 also holds setting values ​​related to the dynamic characteristics of the vehicle body 21. The equipment control unit 103 calculates control command values ​​for controlling equipment such as control valves, engine 5, air conditioner, and audio, taking into consideration the setting values ​​held by the vehicle body management unit 104. For example, the equipment control unit 103 calculates and outputs a control command value for the fuel injection device so that the actual rotational speed of the engine 5 detected by the engine speed sensor (not shown) approaches the instructed rotational speed of the engine 5.

[0108] -Display Control Unit- The display control unit 114 displays various vehicle setting information and function assignment information for the operation unit 15 on the display screen of the touch panel monitor 12 based on mode setting information from the mode setting unit 109, screen operation requests from the operation processing unit 108, setting information from the vehicle body management unit 104, and touch operations from the touch panel monitor 12. The display control unit 114 also generates an image based on video data from the video acquisition unit 105 and displays the generated image on the display screen of the touch panel monitor 12. The display control unit 114 may also display the menu screen 600B on the touch panel monitor 12 based on touch operation information from the touch panel monitor 12. In this case, it outputs screen information indicating that the menu screen 600B is being displayed to the mode setting unit 109. When the mode setting unit 109 receives screen information indicating that the menu screen 600B is being displayed, it sets the mode to menu mode.

[0109] -Example of Main Operation- An example of the main operation of this embodiment will be described. When the touch panel monitor 12 is operating normally and the guide image 209 can be viewed, one of the normal modes, work mode, air conditioning mode, audio mode, and menu mode, is selected and set. Each operation of the operation unit 15 is assigned a function according to the currently set mode.

[0110] On the other hand, if some kind of abnormality occurs and the operator is unable to view the guide image 209, the mode is set to abnormal mode. The operation when the guide image 209 cannot be viewed due to an abnormality in the communication status between the controller 100 and the touch panel monitor 12 is as follows.

[0111] If an abnormality occurs in the communication status between the controller 100 and the touch panel monitor 12, the communication status monitoring unit 112 determines that an abnormality has occurred in the communication status. If the communication status monitoring unit 112 determines that an abnormality has occurred in the communication status, the status determination unit 111 sets the status flag to a value representing "abnormal" (No. S730 in S710 and S713 of Figure 18).

[0112] The mode setting unit 109 sets the mode to abnormal mode when the status flag is set to a value indicating "abnormal," and assigns a function corresponding to the abnormal mode (function for abnormal situations) to each operation of the operation unit 15 (No. S630 in S610 and S613 of Figure 17).

[0113] The operation processing unit 108 acquires the mode setting information (function assignment information) set by the mode setting unit 109 and executes processing according to the operation content of the operation unit 15 (see Figures 4, 5, 14, 15, and 16). If an abnormal mode is set, the operation of the jog dial 13 or the operation of the push button 14 will be accompanied by processing to change predetermined vehicle settings, such as adjusting the engine speed (see Figures 5 and 16).

[0114] In this way, if the operator is unable to view the guide image 209, the mode automatically transitions from normal mode to abnormal mode, enabling the execution of specific vehicle setting operations. As a result, when abnormal mode is set, the functions assigned to the operation of the operation unit 15 are always the same, allowing the operator to operate the operation unit 15 without misinterpreting the current function assignment, even without viewing the guide image 209.

[0115] When an abnormal mode is set, the mode will not be changed by operations that were used for mode switching during normal operation (pressing or sliding the jog dial 13) (No. S520 in S513 of Figure 16). This prevents the operator from unintentionally switching the mode to work mode, air conditioning mode, audio mode, or menu mode.

[0116] The process shown in the flowchart of Figure 18, executed by the state determination unit 111, is repeatedly performed at a predetermined control cycle. Therefore, when the abnormality in the communication state is resolved, the state flag is set to a value indicating "normal," and the system returns to normal mode (Yes at S710 and S713 in Figure 18, Yes at S716, and S736; Yes at S610 and S613 in Figure 17, Yes at S614, and S615). Thus, it is possible to return to the normal working state without requiring any special operation by the operator.

[0117] Next, we will explain an example of operation when an abnormal mode is forcibly set by the operator. If the LCD portion of the touch panel monitor 12 is cracked, or if there is a partial loss of screen display, or if the screen freezes, it is possible that the operator may not be able to see the guide image 209 even though the communication status is normal.

[0118] In such cases, the operator can forcibly switch to the abnormal mode by performing an operation to transition from the normal mode to the abnormal mode, thereby changing specific vehicle settings. Whether or not a transition operation has been performed is determined by the switching unit 107. In this embodiment, it is determined that a transition operation has been performed when the first button 14a and the second button 14b are pressed simultaneously for a predetermined time (for example, about 5 seconds) or longer (Yes in S110, S113, S119, S122, S125, S128, S131, S134 in Figure 12).

[0119] Furthermore, while the first button 14a and the second button 14b are pressed simultaneously, the processes in steps S122, S125, S128, and S131 in Figure 12 are repeatedly executed, and the processes assigned to the first button 14a and the second button 14b are not executed. This prevents unintended changes to the vehicle settings from occurring when the operator performs an operation to transition from normal mode to abnormal mode.

[0120] When an operation is performed to transition from normal mode to abnormal mode, a value representing "abnormal" is set in the status flag (Yes in S134 in Figure 12, No in S719 in Figure 18, and No in S722 and S730 in Figure 18). This sets the abnormal mode (No in S610 and S613 in Figure 17, and No in S630 in Figure 17). When the abnormal mode is set, the functions for abnormal situations are assigned to the operation of the operation unit 15, as described above.

[0121] When an operation is performed to transition from abnormal mode to normal mode, a value representing "normal" is set in the status flag (Yes in S134 in Figure 12, Yes in S719 in Figure 18, Yes in S722, and S736). This sets the work mode to normal mode (Yes in S610 and S613 in Figure 17, Yes in S614, and S615). By providing a means to return to normal mode in this way, when the abnormality of the touch panel monitor 12 is resolved and the guide image 209 can be confirmed, work can be quickly resumed.

[0122] Furthermore, if the mode is switched by a transition operation, continuing to long-press the same control unit may result in unintended changes to the vehicle settings or the system may mistakenly determine that a transition operation has been performed again. For this reason, it is desirable for the switching unit 107 and the operation processing unit 108 to disable processing resulting from the operation until the operation unit is released.

[0123] As described above, in this embodiment, if the touch panel monitor 12 is in a display abnormal state and is not in a state where the current function assignment information can be identified, a specific function necessary for driving is assigned to the operation of the operation unit 15, and furthermore, the assignment of that specific function cannot be changed. As a result, even if the current function assignment information cannot be identified, the operator can operate the operation unit 15 without misinterpreting the current function assignment.

[0124] - Effects of this embodiment - The above-described embodiment provides the following effects.

[0125] (1) The hydraulic excavator (working machine) 20 includes a jog dial (operating device) 13 to which at least one of a plurality of functions, including a specific function, can be selectively assigned; a touch panel monitor (display device) 12 that displays information about the function assigned to the jog dial 13; and a controller 100 that executes the function assigned to the jog dial 13 (Figures 2, 10, and 11). When the controller 100 detects an abnormality in the touch panel monitor 12 (No. S730 in S713 in Figure 18, and No. S630 in S610 and S613 in Figure 17), it assigns a specific function to the jog dial 13 (Figures 5 and 16). In this configuration, if an abnormality occurs in the touch panel monitor 12, a specific function is assigned to the jog dial 13, thus preventing a function different from the operator's intent from being executed.

[0126] As a specific example, the hydraulic excavator (working machine) 20 according to this embodiment includes an operation unit 15 capable of multiple operations, a controller 100, and a touch panel monitor (display device) 12. When an operation to select a normal mode is performed on the operation unit 15, the controller 100 selects and sets one normal mode from among multiple normal modes (Yes in S320, S323 in Figure 14, and Yes in S622 and S625 in Figure 17). For each set normal mode, the controller 100 assigns multiple normal functions to each of the multiple operations performed on the operation unit 15. Based on the set normal mode and the operation performed on the operation unit 15, the controller 100 executes the normal functions assigned to that operation (see Figures 4 and 5). The touch panel monitor 12 displays the normal functions assigned to the operation of the operation unit 15 when a normal mode is set (guide images 209 in Figures 7 to 9).

[0127] The controller 100 determines whether a display abnormality has occurred in which the touch panel monitor 12 can no longer display the normal functions assigned to the operation of the operation unit 15 (S713 in Figure 18). If the controller 100 determines that a display abnormality has occurred in which the touch panel monitor 12 can no longer display the normal functions assigned to the operation of the operation unit 15, it sets the abnormal mode instead of the normal mode (No. S730 in S713 in Figure 18, and No. S630 in S610 and S613 in Figure 17). When the abnormal mode is set, the controller 100 assigns predetermined abnormal functions (for example, a plurality of specific functions including a function to change the indicated value of the rotational speed of the engine 5) to predetermined operations on the operation unit 15 (for example, a plurality of predetermined operations including the rotation operation of the jog dial 13). When the abnormal mode is set, the controller 100 executes the abnormal function assigned to a predetermined operation on the operation unit 15 when that operation is performed.

[0128] The emergency functions assigned to specific operations are shown in the instruction manual. The instruction manual is kept in the hydraulic excavator 20. Alternatively, the emergency functions may be engraved on a nameplate or similar and installed in the operator's cab 1f. This allows the operator to recognize the emergency function assigned to a specific operation if a display malfunction occurs, thereby preventing erroneous operation. In other words, according to this embodiment, it is possible to provide a hydraulic excavator 20 that can prevent a function other than the operator's intention from being executed when a display malfunction occurs on the touch panel monitor (display device) 12.

[0129] (2) When the controller 100 detects an abnormality in the touch panel monitor 12, it assigns a specific function to the jog dial 13 and disables any changes from the specific function assigned to the jog dial 13 to other functions. If changes from the specific function are enabled, there is a risk that a function different from the operator's intent may be executed after the change. However, with the above configuration, after an abnormality occurs, changes from the specific function to other functions are disabled. This prevents a function different from the operator's intent from being executed after an abnormality occurs.

[0130] (3) The jog dial 13 is operable in a first direction (e.g., rotation direction) and a second direction (e.g., sliding direction) (Figure 4). When the jog dial 13 is operated in the first direction, the controller 100 executes the function assigned to the jog dial 13. For example, when the jog dial 13 is operated in the rotation direction, the rotational speed of the engine 5 is adjusted. When the jog dial 13 is operated in the second direction, the controller 100 changes the function assigned to the jog dial 13. For example, when in work mode, if the jog dial 13 is slid to the left, the mode is switched from work mode to air conditioner mode. As an example, the function assigned to the rotation operation of the jog dial 13 is changed from the function of adjusting the rotational speed of the engine 5 to the function of adjusting the airflow. With this configuration, the operator can execute the function assigned to the jog dial 13 by operating the jog dial 13 in the first direction. The operator can also change the function assigned to the jog dial 13 by operating the jog dial 13 in the second direction.

[0131] (4) When the controller 100 detects an abnormality in the touch panel monitor 12, it assigns a specific function to the operation of the jog dial 13 in a first direction (e.g., rotation direction) and disables the function change from the specific function by operating the jog dial 13 in a second direction (e.g., slide direction and press direction). In this configuration, the function change from the specific function by operating in the second direction after an abnormality occurs is disabled. This prevents a function different from the operator's intention from being executed after an abnormality occurs.

[0132] As a specific example, in this embodiment, when an abnormal mode is set, the controller 100 does not set a normal mode even if an operation to select one normal mode from among several normal modes is performed on the operation unit 15 (for example, sliding or pressing the jog dial 13 when the basic mode is set), and maintains the abnormal mode (No. S520 in S513 in Figure 16, No. S733 in S719 in Figure 18, and No. S630 in S610 and S613 in Figure 17). This prevents the system from switching to normal mode if an operation to select a normal mode is mistakenly performed when an abnormal mode is set (for example, sliding or pressing the jog dial 13). This makes it possible to more effectively prevent erroneous operation when an abnormality occurs.

[0133] (5) The hydraulic excavator 20 comprises a vehicle body (machine body) 21, a work device 22 attached to the vehicle body 21, a hydraulic pump 6 that supplies hydraulic fluid to hydraulic actuators (boom cylinder 2a, arm cylinder 2b, and bucket cylinder 2c) that drive the work device 22, and an engine (power unit) 5 that rotationally drives the hydraulic pump 6. When the controller 100 detects an abnormality in the touch panel monitor 12, it assigns the function of changing the rotational speed of the engine 5 to the jog dial 13 as a specific function.

[0134] In this embodiment, one of the functions for handling abnormalities is a function to change the indicated rotational speed of the engine 5 (Figure 5). Therefore, even if the indicated rotational speed of the engine 5 is set low when no abnormality occurs, the indicated rotational speed of the engine 5 can be readjusted to a higher value after an abnormality occurs. This allows the excavator to travel uphill appropriately, and thus the hydraulic excavator 20 can be moved appropriately to the predetermined location.

[0135] (6) In addition to the jog dial (operating device) 13, the hydraulic excavator 20 further has push buttons (operators) 14 to which functions can be assigned. The controller 100 changes the function assigned to the push buttons (operators) 14 according to the function (mode change function) assigned to the jog dial 13 (Figure 4). As a specific example, in the controller 100 according to this embodiment, when the normal mode is set, the mode is changed by sliding the jog dial 13. In each mode (work mode, air conditioning mode, audio mode), the function assigned to each push button 14 is different. For example, when in work mode, if the jog dial 13 is slid to the left, the mode is changed from work mode to air conditioning mode. As a result, the function assigned to the third button 14c is changed from the wiper operating speed change function to the air outlet switching function. With this configuration, the function assigned to the push buttons 14 can be changed using the jog dial 13. In other words, there is no need to provide a dedicated operating unit for changing functions separately from the operating unit 15. This reduces the number of parts and thus lowers manufacturing costs.

[0136] (7) When a specific function is assigned to the jog dial 13, the function assigned to the push button 14 differs depending on whether or not an abnormality is detected in the touch panel monitor 12. In this embodiment, when the specific function of adjusting the rotational speed of the engine 5 is assigned to the jog dial 13, the function of the second button (operator) 14b differs between normal mode and abnormal mode (Figures 4 and 5). With this configuration, the push button 14 can be given different functions depending on whether or not an abnormality is detected, thus reducing the number of parts.

[0137] (8) In this embodiment, when an abnormal mode is set, the controller 100 assigns a plurality of abnormal function to each of a plurality of predetermined operations on the operation unit 15. In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 5, the plurality of predetermined operations refer to the rotation operation of the jog dial 13 and the pressing operation of the first to fourth buttons 14a to 14d. The plurality of abnormal function refer to the function to adjust the rotation speed of the engine 5, the function to change the upper limit of the travel speed, the function to switch the ambient light ON and OFF, the function to switch the operating speed of the wiper, and the function to spray washer fluid. With this configuration, the hydraulic excavator 20 can be driven appropriately to a predetermined location even at night or in bad weather.

[0138] (9) The controller 100 (communication status monitoring unit 112 in Figure 11) monitors the communication status between the touch panel monitor 12 and the controller 100. The controller 100 detects abnormalities in the touch panel monitor 12 from the communication status. With this configuration, if an abnormality in the touch panel monitor 12 is detected from the communication status, a specific function can be automatically assigned to the operation unit 15.

[0139] As a specific example, the controller 100 according to this embodiment determines that a display abnormality has occurred in which the touch panel monitor 12 can no longer display the functions assigned to the operation of the operation unit 15 when an abnormality occurs in the communication state (No. S730 in S710 and S713 in Figure 18). With this configuration, when an abnormality occurs in the communication state, it is possible to automatically switch from normal mode to abnormal mode (No. S630 in S610 and S613 in Figure 17).

[0140] (10) When no abnormality is detected in the touch panel monitor 12, if the controller 100 receives a transition operation for the jog dial 13 or push button 14 to change the function assigned to the jog dial 13 to a specific function. With this configuration, if the touch panel monitor 12 is damaged (e.g., the LCD is cracked), the operator can forcibly assign an abnormality function (specific function) to the jog dial 13 and push button 14 through a transition operation.

[0141] As a specific example, in this embodiment, when the controller 100 is set to normal mode, if an operation to switch to abnormal mode is performed on the operation unit 15, the controller 100 will switch to abnormal mode instead of normal mode (Yes at S719, No at S722, and S730 in Figure 18; No at S610 and S613, and S630 in Figure 17). With this configuration, if the touch panel monitor 12 is damaged (e.g., the liquid crystal is cracked), the operator can forcibly switch from normal mode to abnormal mode.

[0142] (11) Even if the change from the specific function assigned to the jog dial 13 is disabled, the controller 100 enables the change from the specific function assigned to the jog dial 13 when the jog dial 13 or push button 14 accepts a transition operation. With this configuration, after the jog dial 13 is assigned to a specific function, the operator can perform a transition operation to assign a function for normal operation to the jog dial 13.

[0143] As a specific example, in this embodiment, when an abnormal mode is set, the controller 100 sets the normal mode instead of the abnormal mode when an operation to transition to the normal mode is performed on the operation unit 15 (Yes at S719, Yes at S722, S736 in Figure 18; Yes at S610, S613, Yes at S614, S630 in Figure 17). In this embodiment, when transitioning from an abnormal mode to a normal mode, the work mode, which is a frequently used normal mode, is set. With this configuration, for example, when an abnormality such as a screen freeze occurs on the touch panel monitor 12, it is possible to transition to an abnormal mode by a transition operation, and then return to the normal mode by a transition operation when the abnormality such as a screen freeze is resolved. This allows for a quick return to work, thereby improving work efficiency.

[0144] (12) In this embodiment, the transition operation from normal mode to abnormal mode and the transition operation from abnormal mode to normal mode are operations performed on the first button 14a and the second button 14b for a predetermined period of time or longer. Thus, since the transition operation is a special operation that is not used under normal circumstances, it prevents accidental transitions from normal mode to abnormal mode under normal circumstances. It also prevents accidental transitions from abnormal mode to normal mode under abnormal circumstances. Since the transition operation utilizes the operating section of the operating unit 15, there is no need to provide a dedicated operating section. Therefore, the number of parts can be reduced and manufacturing costs can be reduced.

[0145] Furthermore, when the controller 100 is transitioned from normal mode to abnormal mode, it does not execute functions intended for normal operation. This prevents functions unintended by the operator from being executed during the transition from normal mode to abnormal mode. Similarly, when the controller 100 is transitioned from abnormal mode to normal mode, it does not execute functions intended for abnormal operation. This prevents functions unintended by the operator from being executed during the transition from abnormal mode to normal mode.

[0146] The following modifications are also within the scope of the present invention, and it is possible to combine the configurations shown in the modifications with the configurations described in the embodiments described above, or to combine the configurations described in the following different modifications.

[0147] <Modification 1> In the above embodiment, an example was described in which the operation unit 15 is provided with multiple operating parts. However, the operation unit 15 may have only one operating part. For example, the operation unit 15 in the above embodiment had one jog dial 13 and four push buttons 14 as operating parts, but the four push buttons 14 may be omitted. In other words, the operation unit 15 may be configured to have only a jog dial 13 as an operating device.

[0148] The controller 100 in this modified version, similar to the embodiment described above, determines whether a display abnormality has occurred in which the touch panel monitor 12 can no longer display the normal function assigned to the operation of the jog dial 13. If the controller 100 determines that a display abnormality has occurred, it sets the abnormal mode instead of the normal mode. When the abnormal mode is set, the controller 100 assigns a predetermined abnormal function (specific function) to the rotation operation, which is a predetermined operation on the jog dial 13. This prevents operator errors.

[0149] Furthermore, it is preferable that the function for use in abnormal situations (specific function) be a function to change the rotational speed of the engine 5. This allows the hydraulic excavator 20 to be moved appropriately to a predetermined location.

[0150] In this modified example, it is preferable that the operation to transition from normal mode to abnormal mode and the operation to transition from abnormal mode to normal mode be performed by pressing the jog dial 13 for a predetermined time or longer. This prevents accidental transitions from normal mode to abnormal mode, or from abnormal mode to normal mode. As in the above embodiment, it is preferable that the controller 100 is configured not to execute the functions for normal operation when an operation to transition from normal mode to abnormal mode is performed. It is also preferable that the controller 100 is configured not to execute the functions for abnormal operation when an operation to transition from abnormal mode to normal mode is performed. Specifically, it is preferable that the controller 100 is configured to execute the functions for normal operation or abnormal operation if the pressing operation time is less than a predetermined time when the pressing operation, which is the transition operation, is completed.

[0151] <Modification 2> In the above embodiment, an example was described in which the operation for transitioning from normal mode to abnormal mode and the operation for transitioning from abnormal mode to normal mode are the same. However, the operation for transitioning from normal mode to abnormal mode and the operation for transitioning from abnormal mode to normal mode may be different operations. For example, the operation for transitioning from normal mode to abnormal mode may be a pressing operation on the jog dial 13 and the first button 14a that continues for a predetermined time or longer, and the operation for transitioning from abnormal mode to normal mode may be a pressing operation on the third button 14c and the fourth button 14d that continues for a predetermined time or longer.

[0152] The transition operation from normal mode to abnormal mode and the transition operation from abnormal mode to normal mode may, for example, be a press operation of any one of the first to fourth buttons 14a to 14d that continues for a predetermined time or longer. The transition operation from normal mode to abnormal mode and the transition operation from abnormal mode to normal mode are not limited to long-press operations. The transition operation may also be performed by simultaneously pressing either the jog dial 13 or the push button 14. However, in order to prevent the transition from normal mode to abnormal mode or from abnormal mode to normal mode from occurring unintentionally, it is desirable to use an operation method for the transition operation that is unlikely to be performed by mistake while normal operation is being performed. For example, if the normal operation includes simultaneous operation of two operation parts, it is preferable to make the transition operation between normal mode and abnormal mode a simultaneous operation of three or more operation parts. Also, if the normal operation includes a long-press operation of a first time t1 or longer, it is preferable to make the transition operation between normal mode and abnormal mode a long-press operation of a second time t2 or longer than the first time t1.

[0153] <Modification 3> The operation to transition from normal mode to abnormal mode may be a pressing operation of the jog dial 13 that is continued for a first time t1 or longer, and the operation to transition from abnormal mode to normal mode may be a pressing operation of the jog dial 13 that is continued for a second time t2 or longer than the first time t1. In this case, the functions assigned in work mode, air conditioner mode, audio mode, and menu mode (the function to change the mode to menu mode) are assigned to pressing operations of the jog dial 13 that are not continued for a first time t1 or longer, i.e., pressing operations that are less than the first time t1.

[0154] If normal mode is set, the controller 100 determines whether the pressing operation of the jog dial 13 has continued for 1 hour t1 or longer. If the controller 100 determines that the pressing operation of the jog dial 13 has continued for 1 hour t1 or longer, it switches the mode to abnormal mode. Alternatively, the controller 100 may determine at the time the pressing operation ends whether the pressing operation continued for 1 hour t1 or longer, and if it does, it may switch to abnormal mode. If the pressing operation of the jog dial 13 ends before it has continued for 1 hour t1 or longer, the controller 100 determines at the time the pressing operation of the jog dial 13 ends that the pressing operation of the jog dial 13 has continued for less than 1 hour t1, and executes the normal function assigned to each normal mode.

[0155] If abnormal mode is set, the controller 100 determines whether the pressing operation of the jog dial 13 has continued for a second time t2 or longer. If the controller 100 determines that the pressing operation of the jog dial 13 has continued for a second time t2 or longer, it switches the mode to normal mode. Alternatively, the controller 100 may determine at the time the pressing operation ends whether the pressing operation continued for a second time t2 or longer, and if it does, it may switch to normal mode. If the pressing operation of the jog dial 13 ends before it has continued for a second time t2 or longer, the controller 100 determines at the time the pressing operation of the jog dial 13 ends that the pressing operation of the jog dial 13 has continued for less than a second time t2, and executes the abnormal function assigned to abnormal mode.

[0156] In this way, when a transition operation is performed by long-pressing a single control unit, it is possible to distinguish between a normal operation and a transition operation by ensuring that the function assigned to the control unit is executed when the control unit is released. Therefore, it is possible to prevent unintended changes to vehicle settings from occurring when performing a transition operation as described above.

[0157] <Modification 4> In the above embodiment, an example was described in which an abnormality is set to display abnormality when an abnormality occurs in the communication state between the controller 100 and the touch panel monitor 12, and the touch panel monitor 12 is unable to display the functions assigned to the operation of the operation unit 15. However, the touch panel monitor 12 may have a self-diagnosis function. In this case, the touch panel monitor 12 determines whether or not an abnormality has occurred in the screen display function using its self-diagnosis function and outputs a signal representing the determination result to the controller 100. The controller 100 may set the abnormality mode when it receives a signal (determination result) from the touch panel monitor 12 indicating that an abnormality has occurred.

[0158] <Modification 5> In the above embodiment, an example in which the display device is a touch panel monitor 12 was described, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The display device may be configured as a liquid crystal display without a touch sensor. The display device may also be configured to include a plurality of LEDs.

[0159] <Modification 6> In the above embodiment, an example was described in which the operation of the operation unit 15 is assigned to an operation to transition between normal mode and abnormal mode, but the present invention is not limited thereto. A dedicated operation unit for forcibly transitioning from normal mode to abnormal mode, and a dedicated operation unit for returning from abnormal mode to normal mode may be further provided.

[0160] <Modification 7> In the above embodiment, an example was described in which the operation of the operation unit 15 is assigned to select one normal mode from among a plurality of normal modes, but the present invention is not limited thereto. Separately from the operation unit 15, a mode setting operation device 80 (see Figure 10) may be provided, and the controller 100 may be configured to select and set one normal mode from among a plurality of normal modes in response to an operation to select a normal mode on the mode setting operation device 80.

[0161] <Modification 8> In the above embodiment, an example was described in which the power device that rotates the hydraulic pump 6 is an engine 5. However, the power device may be an electric motor. The electric motor can be driven by electricity from a generator or from a battery.

[0162] <Modification 9> In the above embodiment, an example was described in which the work machine is a crawler-type hydraulic excavator 20, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The work machine may be a wheel-type hydraulic excavator. The work machine may also be a work vehicle such as a wheel loader, dump truck, or road construction machine.

[0163] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above, these embodiments only represent a part of the application examples of the present invention, and are not intended to limit the technical scope of the present invention to the specific configurations of the above embodiments.

[0164] 2a...Boom cylinder (hydraulic actuator), 2b...Arm cylinder (hydraulic actuator), 2c...Bucket cylinder (hydraulic actuator), 3d...Slewing motor (hydraulic actuator), 3e...Travel motor (hydraulic actuator), 5...Engine (power unit), 6...Hydraulic pump, 9...Operating lever, 12...Touch panel monitor (display device), 13...Jog dial (operating device, operating unit), 14...Push button (operating element, operating unit), 15...Operating unit, 20...Hydraulic excavator (working machine), 21...Vehicle body (machine body), 22...Working equipment, 80...Mode setting operation device, 100...Controller, 101 ...Operation feasibility determination unit, 102...Operation amount detection unit, 103...Equipment control unit, 104...Vehicle body management unit, 105...Image acquisition unit, 106...Operation information acquisition unit, 107...Switching unit, 108...Operation processing unit, 109...Mode setting unit, 110...Overall management unit, 111...Status determination unit, 112...Communication status monitoring unit, 114...Display control unit, 121...Processing unit, 122...Non-volatile memory (storage device), 123...Volatile memory (storage device), 209...Guide image, 209A...Work guide image, 209B...Air conditioning guide image, 209C...Audio guide image, 209D...Menu guide image, 600A...Monitoring screen, 600B...Menu screen

Claims

1. A work machine comprising: an operating device capable of selectively assigning at least one function from a plurality of functions including a specific function; a display device that displays information of the function assigned to the operating device; and a controller that executes the function assigned to the operating device, wherein the controller, when it detects an abnormality in the display device, assigns the specific function to the operating device.

2. The work machine according to claim 1, wherein the controller, when it detects an abnormality in the display device, assigns the specific function to the operating device and disables the change from the specific function assigned to the operating device to another function.

3. A work machine according to claim 1, wherein the operating device is operable in a first direction and a second direction, and the controller executes the function assigned to the operating device when the operating device is operated in the first direction, and changes the function assigned to the operating device when the operating device is operated in the second direction.

4. The work machine according to claim 3, wherein the controller, when it detects an abnormality in the display device, assigns the specific function to the operation of the operating device in the first direction, and disables the change of function from the specific function by the operation of the operating device in the second direction.

5. A work machine according to claim 2, further comprising, in addition to the operating device, an operator to which a function can be assigned, wherein the controller changes the function assigned to the operator according to the function assigned to the operating device.

6. The work machine according to claim 5, characterized in that the function assigned to the operator when the specific function is assigned to the operating device differs depending on whether an abnormality is detected in the display device or not.

7. A work machine according to claim 1, comprising: a machine body; a work device attached to the machine body; a hydraulic pump that supplies hydraulic fluid to a hydraulic actuator that drives the work device; and a power device that rotationally drives the hydraulic pump, wherein the specific function is a function that changes the rotational speed of the power device.

8. A work machine according to claim 1, wherein the controller monitors the communication status between the display device and the controller, and detects an abnormality in the display device from the communication status.

9. A work machine according to claim 6, wherein the controller changes the function assigned to the operating device to the specific function when no abnormality is detected in the display device and the operating device or the operating element receives a transition operation for transitioning the function.

10. The work machine according to claim 9, characterized in that the transition operation is an operation on the operating device that continues for a predetermined time or longer.

11. The work machine according to claim 9, characterized in that the transition operation is an operation on the operator that continues for a predetermined time or longer.

12. A work machine according to claim 6, wherein the controller enables the change from the specific function assigned to the operating device when the operating device or the operator accepts a transition operation, even when the change from the specific function assigned to the operating device is disabled.

13. The work machine according to claim 12, characterized in that the transition operation is an operation on the operating device that continues for a predetermined time or longer.

14. The work machine according to claim 12, characterized in that the transition operation is an operation on the operator that continues for a predetermined time or longer.

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