CN117980568A - Obstacle detection alarm system, obstacle detection alarm method, and work machine - Google Patents

Abstract

The obstacle detection alarm system of the present disclosure includes: a turning operation unit that instructs an upper turning body provided in the work machine to turn; an obstacle detection unit that detects an obstacle located around the work machine; and a notification unit that issues an alarm when the obstacle detection unit detects an obstacle in the rotation direction of the upper rotation body indicated by the rotation operation unit.

Description

Obstacle detection alarm system, obstacle detection alarm method, and work machine

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to an obstacle detection warning system, an obstacle detection warning method, and a work machine. The present application claims priority based on japanese patent application No. 2021-159777, 9, 29 of 2021, and the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Background

Patent document 1 describes a periphery monitoring device for a working machine, which includes: a person presence/absence determination unit that determines presence/absence of a person in each of a first monitoring space and a second monitoring space that are located around the work machine; and an alarm control means which is provided in the cab of the work machine, controls the first alarm output unit and the second alarm output unit, and outputs an alarm from the first alarm output unit when it is determined that a person is present in the first monitoring space, and outputs an alarm from the second alarm output unit when it is determined that a person is present in the second monitoring space. According to the apparatus described in patent document 1, the operator of the work machine can intuitively grasp the position of a person present around the work machine.

Prior art literature

Patent literature

Patent document 1: japanese patent application laid-open No. 2018-93501

Disclosure of Invention

Problems to be solved by the invention

However, the apparatus described in patent document 1 has the following problems: since the rotation direction of the upper rotation body is not considered in the determination of whether to output the alarm, the alarm may be output improperly even when there is a low risk of contact, such as when a person is on the opposite side of the rotation direction.

The present disclosure has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide an obstacle detection alarm system, an obstacle detection alarm method, and a work machine capable of appropriately reporting an alarm to an obstacle located around the work machine.

Means for solving the problems

In order to solve the above problems, an obstacle detection alarm system of the present disclosure includes: a turning operation unit that instructs an upper turning body provided in the work machine to turn; an obstacle detection unit that detects an obstacle located around the work machine; and a notification unit that issues an alarm when the obstacle detection unit detects an obstacle in the rotation direction of the upper rotation body indicated by the rotation operation unit.

In addition, the obstacle detection alarm method of the present disclosure includes: a step of acquiring an instruction of the swing operation unit to swing the upper swing body of the work machine; a step of acquiring a result of detection of an obstacle located around the work machine by an obstacle detection unit; and a warning step of warning when the obstacle detecting unit detects an obstacle in the rotation direction of the upper rotation body indicated by the rotation operating unit.

Further, the work machine of the present disclosure is a work machine having an upper slewing body, the work machine including an obstacle detection warning system including: a turning operation unit that instructs the upper turning body to turn; an obstacle detection unit that detects an obstacle located around the work machine; and a notification unit that issues an alarm when the obstacle detection unit detects an obstacle in the rotation direction of the upper rotation body indicated by the rotation operation unit.

Effects of the invention

According to the obstacle detection alarm system, the obstacle detection alarm method, and the work machine of the present disclosure, an alarm can be appropriately given to obstacles around the work machine.

Drawings

Fig. 1 is a side view schematically showing the structure of a work machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 2 is a schematic plan view showing the structure of a work machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 3 is a plan view schematically illustrating an example of operation of the work machine according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 4 is a perspective view schematically showing a structural example of a cab according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 5 is a perspective view showing a configuration example of the swing detecting section according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 6 is a perspective view showing a configuration example of the swing detecting section according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 7 is a perspective view showing an example of the operation of the swing detecting unit according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 8 is a perspective view showing an example of the operation of the swing detecting unit according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 9 is a perspective view showing an example of the operation of the swing detecting unit according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 10 is a diagram for explaining an example of the operation of the swing detecting unit according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 11 is a plan view schematically showing a detection region of the obstacle detection unit according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 12 is a top view schematically illustrating an alarm region of an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 13 is a top view schematically illustrating an alarm region of an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 14 is a top view schematically illustrating an alarm region of an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 15 is a system diagram showing an outline of a drive system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 16 is a block diagram showing an outline of the obstacle detection alarm system according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 17 is a diagram for explaining an example of the operation of the obstacle detection alarm system according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 18 is a transition diagram for explaining an operation example of the obstacle detection alarm system according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 19 is a transition diagram for explaining an operation example of the obstacle detection alarm system according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 20 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the operation of the obstacle detection alarm system according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 21 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the operation of the obstacle detection alarm system according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 22 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the operation of the obstacle detection alarm system according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 23 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the operation of the obstacle detection alarm system according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 24 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the operation of the obstacle detection alarm system according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 25 is a schematic diagram for explaining an example of the operation of the obstacle detection alarm system according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 26 is a schematic diagram for explaining an operation example of the obstacle detection alarm system according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 27 is a schematic diagram for explaining an operation example of the obstacle detection alarm system according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 28 is a schematic diagram for explaining an operation example of the obstacle detection alarm system according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 29 is a schematic diagram for explaining an operation example of the obstacle detection alarm system according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 30 is a schematic diagram for explaining an operation example of the obstacle detection alarm system according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 31 is a block diagram illustrating a basic configuration of an obstacle detection alarm system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 32 is a block diagram illustrating a basic configuration of an obstacle detection alarm system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 33 is a block diagram illustrating a basic configuration of an obstacle detection alarm system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Detailed Description

Embodiments of the present disclosure are described below with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same or corresponding structures are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof is omitted as appropriate.

Fig. 1 is a side view schematically showing the structure of a work machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 2 is a schematic plan view showing the structure of a work machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 3 is a plan view schematically illustrating an example of operation of the work machine according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 4 is a perspective view schematically showing a structural example of a cab according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 5 to 9 are perspective views showing structural examples of the swing detecting unit according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 10 is an operation example diagram of the swing detecting unit according to the embodiment of the present disclosure for explanation. Fig. 11 is a plan view schematically showing a detection region of the obstacle detection unit according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 12 to 14 are plan views schematically showing alarm areas according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Fig. 15 is a system diagram showing an outline of a drive system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 16 is a block diagram showing an outline of the obstacle detection alarm system according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 17 is a diagram for explaining an example of the operation of the obstacle detection alarm system according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 18 to 19 are transition diagrams for explaining an operation example of the obstacle detection alarm system according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 20 to 24 are flowcharts for explaining an operation example of the obstacle detection alarm system according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 25 to 30 are schematic diagrams for explaining an operation example of the obstacle detection alarm system according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 31 to 33 are block diagrams illustrating a basic configuration of an obstacle detection alarm system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

As shown in fig. 1 and 2, in the present embodiment, a local coordinate system is set for the work machine 100, and the positional relationship of each part is described with reference to the local coordinate system. In the local coordinate system, a first axis extending in the left-right direction (vehicle width direction) of the working machine 100 (upper revolving unit 120) is referred to as an X axis, a second axis extending in the front-rear direction of the working machine 100 is referred to as a Y axis, and a third axis extending in the up-down direction of the working machine 100 is referred to as a Z axis. The X-axis is orthogonal to the Y-axis. The Y-axis is orthogonal to the Z-axis. The Z axis is orthogonal to the X axis. The arrow direction of the X axis is the left direction, and the opposite direction is the right direction. The arrow direction of the Y axis is the front direction, and the opposite direction is the back direction. The arrow direction of the Z axis is the upward direction, and the opposite direction is the downward direction.

(Construction example of work machine 100)

Fig. 1 shows an example of a structure of a work machine 100 according to an embodiment. Work machine 100 is operated at a construction site to perform construction on a construction target such as sandy soil. As an example, work machine 100 of the embodiment is a hydraulic excavator (mini excavator or mini excavator). Work machine 100 includes a lower traveling body 110, an upper revolving body 120, a work implement 130, and a blade 150. Upper revolving unit 120 includes cab 140, obstacle detecting unit 200, and swing detecting unit 210.

Lower traveling body 110 supports work machine 100 to be capable of traveling. The lower traveling body 110 includes, for example, a pair of left and right crawler belts 110a (also referred to as left crawler belt 110 a) and a crawler belt 110b (also referred to as right crawler belt 110 b). Lower traveling body 110 supports blade 150 so as to be drivable in the up-down direction. Blade 150 is driven by blade cylinder 150C, which is a hydraulic cylinder.

Upper revolving structure 120 is rotatably supported by lower traveling structure 110 about a revolving center c. The working device 130 is hydraulically driven. The working device 130 is supported on the front portion of the upper revolving structure 120 so as to be able to be driven in the up-down direction. As shown in fig. 3, the working device 130 is supported on the front portion of the upper revolving structure 120 so as to be able to oscillate in the left-right direction about the pin 130P as the oscillation center.

Cab 140 is a space for an operator (driver) to ride and for performing an operation of work machine 100. Cab 140 is provided at the left front portion of upper revolving unit 120. The portion of upper revolving unit 120 to which work implement 130 is attached is referred to as a front portion. In addition, regarding upper revolving unit 120, the opposite side portion is referred to as the rear portion, the left side portion is referred to as the left portion, and the right side portion is referred to as the right portion, based on the front portion.

The left and right crawler belts 110a and 110b can independently drive (advance and retract) the drive wheels. When the left crawler 110a and the right crawler 110b are simultaneously advanced, the lower traveling body 110 is advanced, and when the left crawler 110a and the right crawler 110b are simultaneously retracted, the lower traveling body 110 is retracted. Further, if the drive wheel of one crawler belt and the drive wheel of the other crawler belt are driven in opposite directions, for example, the right crawler belt 110b is advanced and the left crawler belt 110a is retracted, the lower traveling body 110 can rotate about the center of rotation. Such a swivel method is called in-situ swivel.

The center of rotation when the lower traveling body 110 is rotated in place may be set to coincide with the center of rotation c of the upper rotating body 120, or may be set to be different.

(Construction example of working device 130)

As shown in fig. 1 and 2, the work implement 130 includes a boom 131, an arm 132, a bucket 133, a boom cylinder 131C, an arm cylinder 132C, a bucket cylinder 133C, and a swing cylinder 134C.

The base end portion of the boom 131 is swingably supported in the front portion of the upper revolving structure 120 in the up-down direction and in the left-right direction. Arm 132 connects boom 131 and bucket 133. The base end of the boom 132 is swingably attached to the front end of the boom 131. The bucket 133 includes teeth for excavating earth and sand, and a housing for housing the excavated earth and sand. The base end of the bucket 133 is swingably attached to the front end of the arm 132.

The boom cylinder 131C is a hydraulic cylinder for operating the boom 131 in the up-down direction. The base end portion of boom cylinder 131C is swingably attached to upper slewing body 120. The front end of the boom cylinder 131C is attached to the boom 131.

Arm cylinder 132C is a hydraulic cylinder for driving arm 132. The base end of arm cylinder 132C is attached to boom 131. The tip end of arm cylinder 132C is attached to arm 132.

The bucket cylinder 133C is a hydraulic cylinder for driving the bucket 133. The base end of bucket cylinder 133C is attached to arm 132. The tip end of the bucket cylinder 133C is attached to a link member connected to the bucket 133.

The swing cylinder 134C is a hydraulic cylinder for swinging the boom 131 in the left-right direction. The base end of the swing cylinder 134C is attached to the upper revolving unit 120. The front end of the swing cylinder 134C is attached to the base end of the boom 131.

(Structural example of cab 140)

Fig. 4 shows an example of the internal structure of cab 140 according to the embodiment. A driver's seat 141, an operating device 142, and an input/output device 145 are provided in the driver's cab 140.

The operation device 142 is a device for operating the lower traveling body 110, the upper revolving unit 120, the work device 130, and the blade 150 by manual operation of an operator. The operating device 142 includes a left lever 142LO, a right lever 142RO, a left travel lever 142LT, a right travel lever 142RT, a boom swing operation pedal 142BF, a blade lever 142BL, and PPC (Pressure Proportional Control) lock lever 142LL.

The left lever 142LO is provided on the left side of the driver seat 141. The right lever 142RO is provided on the right side of the driver seat 141.

The left lever 142LO is an operation mechanism for performing the turning operation of the upper turning body 120 and the excavating/discharging operation of the arm 132, for example. Specifically, when an operator of work machine 100 reverses left lever 142LO, for example, to the front, arm 132 performs a discharging operation. When the operator of work machine 100 tilts left control lever 142LO rearward, boom 132 performs the excavating operation. When the operator of work machine 100 tilts left control lever 142LO in the right direction, upper revolving unit 120 revolves right. When the operator of work machine 100 tilts left control lever 142LO in the left direction, upper revolving unit 120 revolves left. In other embodiments, when the left lever 142LO is tilted in the front-rear direction, the upper swing body 120 may swing right or left, and when the left lever 142LO is tilted in the left-right direction, the arm 132 may perform the excavating operation or the discharging operation. In other embodiments, when the right lever 142RO is reversed in the left-right direction, the upper revolving structure 120 may revolve left or right. The setting of these operations can be changed using the input/output device 145 or mechanically, for example.

The right lever 142RO is an operation mechanism for performing, for example, the excavating/discharging operation of the bucket 133 and the raising/lowering operation of the boom 131. Specifically, when the operator of the work machine 100 reverses the right operation lever 142RO to the front, the boom 131 is lowered. When the operator of the work machine 100 reverses the right lever 142RO to the rear, the boom 131 is lifted. When the operator of the work machine 100 reverses the right lever 142RO to the right, the bucket 133 is discharged. When the operator of the work machine 100 reverses the right lever 142RO to the left, the excavating operation of the bucket 133 is performed. In other embodiments, the bucket 133 may perform the unloading operation or the excavating operation when the right lever 142RO is tilted in the front-rear direction, and the boom 131 may perform the raising operation or the lowering operation when the right lever 142RO is tilted in the left-right direction.

The left travel bar 142LT is disposed on the front left side of the driver seat 141. The right travel bar 142RT is disposed on the front right side of the driver seat 141. The left travel bar 142LT corresponds to the rotational drive of the left crawler 110a of the lower travel body 110. Specifically, when the operator of the work machine 100 reverses the left travel bar 142LT forward, the left crawler 110a rotates in the forward direction. When the operator of the work machine 100 reverses the left travel bar 142LT, the left crawler 110a rotates in the backward direction.

The right travel bar 142RT corresponds to the rotational drive of the right crawler 110b of the lower travel body 110. Specifically, when the operator of work machine 100 reverses right travel bar 142RT to the front, right crawler 110b rotates in the forward direction. When the right travel bar 142RT of the work machine 100 is tilted rearward, the right crawler 110b rotates in the backward direction.

The boom swing operation pedal 142BF corresponds to swing driving of the working device 130 (the boom 131). For example, when the operator of the work machine 100 reverses the boom swing operation pedal 142BF to the left, the work implement 130 swings in the left direction. When the operator reverses the boom swing operation pedal 142BF to the right, the working device 130 swings to the right.

Blade lever 142BL corresponds to the driving of blade 150. For example, when an operator of work machine 100 tips blade lever 142BL forward, blade 150 is lowered. When blade lever 142BL is tilted rearward, blade 150 is lifted.

The PPC locking lever 142LL is locked or unlocked by an operation of an operator. When the PPC locking lever 142LL is locked, the operation of other levers, pedals, and the like of the operation device 142 other than the PPC locking lever 142LL is invalidated. When the PPC lock lever 142LL is unlocked, the operation by the operation device 142 is effective.

In the present embodiment, each lever and pedal included in the operation device 142 has a function of outputting hydraulic oil at a pressure corresponding to an operation stroke of each lever and pedal from a valve for controlling a pilot pressure for moving a spool of the control valve 303 described later. However, in other embodiments, the lever and the pedal included in the operation device 142 may be configured to output an electric signal, and the control valve may be controlled by an external control device. The left lever 142LO or the right lever 142RO is one example of the structure of the swing operation portion. The left travel bar 142LT and the right travel bar 142RT are one configuration example of a travel operation section.

The input/output device 145 is a device that displays information related to a plurality of functions of the work machine 100, inputs various instruction operations, sends an alarm sound, or displays an alarm signal. The input/output device 145 includes a display 145D. The display 145D is constituted by a touch panel, for example. The input/output device 145 further includes an alarm buzzer 145B for giving an alarm sound. Note that, the display 145D and the alarm buzzer 145B may be provided separately.

(Construction example of swing detecting section 210)

As shown in fig. 5 to 9, the swing detection unit 210 includes two proximity switches (1) 211, a proximity switch (2) 212, and a proximity member 213. Fig. 5, 7 to 9 show a state where the cover 210C is covered, and fig. 6 shows a state where the cover 210C is removed. Fig. 5 to 7 show a state in which the working device 130 is oriented forward (a state in which the swing position in fig. 3 is neutral), fig. 8 shows a state in which the working device 130 swings left, and fig. 9 shows a state in which the working device 130 swings right. The proximity switch (1) 211 and the proximity switch (2) 212 are fixed to the end portion on the side of the working device 130 at a predetermined distance apart from each other in the left-right direction at the neutral position. In the neutral position, the proximity switch (1) 211 is disposed on the right side, and the proximity switch (2) 212 is disposed on the left side. As shown in fig. 7, the proximity member 213 has a shape in which the detection surface 211s of the proximity switch (1) 211 and the detection surface 212s of the proximity switch (2) 212 face each other at the neutral position of the working device 130, and is fixed to the front of the upper revolving unit 120. As shown in fig. 7, when the working device 130 is in the neutral position, both the detection surface 211s of the proximity switch (1) 211 and the detection surface 212s of the proximity switch (2) 212 face (approach) the proximity member 213, and thus both the proximity switch (1) 211 and the proximity switch (2) 212 are turned on. In addition, as shown in fig. 8, in a state in which the working device 130 swings leftward, only the detection surface 212s of the proximity switch (2) 212 faces (approaches) the proximity member 213, and therefore the proximity switch (2) 212 is turned on and the proximity switch (1) 211 is turned off. In addition, as shown in fig. 9, in a state in which the working device 130 swings rightward, only the detection surface 211s of the proximity switch (1) 211 faces (approaches) the proximity member 213, and therefore the proximity switch (1) 211 is turned on and the proximity switch (2) 212 is turned off.

Fig. 10 shows a relationship between the operation of the swing detecting unit 210 and the swing position. When the proximity switch (1) 211 is on and the proximity switch (2) 212 is off, the swing position is right. When the proximity switch (1) 211 is turned on and the proximity switch (2) 212 is turned on, the swing position is neutral. When the proximity switch (1) 211 is off and the proximity switch (2) 212 is on, the swing position is left.

The swing detecting unit 210 of the present embodiment detects whether the working device 130 swings rightward, neutral, or leftward based on the outputs of a plurality of (in this example, two) proximity switches (1) 211 and (2) 212 having different on/off states in a state in which the working device 130 swings rightward, neutral, and leftward. In this case, by changing the arrangement of the plurality of proximity switches (1) 211 and (2) 212 and the shape of the proximity member 213, the angle detected as the neutral state can be easily adjusted.

The number of proximity switches may be 3 or more. The proximity switch may be fixed to the upper revolving unit 120, and the proximity member 213 may be fixed to the working mechanism 130.

(Structural example of obstacle detecting section 200)

The upper revolving unit 120 is provided with a plurality of millimeter wave radars (right radar 201, left Fang Leida 202, and rear Fang Leida) as an obstacle detection unit 200 for detecting an obstacle (detection target object) around the work machine 100. The obstacle detecting unit 200 includes a right radar 201, a left Fang Leida, 202, and a rear radar 203. The right radar 201, the left Fang Leida, 202, and the rear radar 203 detect the angle, distance, and speed of a detection object (a person, a work structure, or the like) located in a detection area within a predetermined distance by, for example, 75 degrees in the left-right direction and 5 degrees in the up-down direction, and output the detection result. The number of detected objects is 0 or more. The angle of the detection region and the like are examples. The obstacle detecting unit 200 may include, for example, 3 or more radars. Fig. 11 shows examples of the detection areas 201s,202s, and 203s of the right radar 201, the left Fang Leida 202, and the rear radar 203.

(Structural example of alarm region)

In the present embodiment, four alarm areas A1, A2, A3, and A4 are set within the range of the detection area (detection areas 201s,202s, and 203 s) of the obstacle detection unit 200, and the width of the alarm areas A1 and A2 is changed, or an alarm is given or no alarm is given when an obstacle is detected in the alarm areas A1, A2, A3, and A4, depending on the turning operation state of the upper turning body 120, the swing position of the work implement 130, the traveling state of the work machine 100, and the like. In the present embodiment, an area for performing an alarm of alarm level 1 and an area for performing an alarm of alarm level 2 are set in alarm areas A1 and A2, and control is performed to switch between an alarm of alarm level 1 and an alarm of alarm level 2. Alarm level 2 indicates a state that is more urgent than alarm level 1 (e.g., a state in which the alarm sound is interrupted in terms of period and frequency, and the volume of the alarm sound is changed).

With reference to fig. 12 to 14, description will be given of setting examples of the alarm areas A1, A2, A3, and A4, the area in which the alarm of the alarm level 1 is performed, and the area in which the alarm of the alarm level 2 is performed. As shown in fig. 12, the alarm region A1 is an alarm region located on the right side with respect to the upper revolving unit 120, and is a region where contact or the like is likely to occur when the upper revolving unit 120 is revolved right in the case where the detection target object is present in the alarm region A1. The alarm region A2 is an alarm region located on the left side with respect to the upper revolving structure 120, and is a region where contact or the like is likely to occur when the upper revolving structure 120 is revolved left in the case where the detection target object is present in the alarm region A2.

The alarm area A1 is set to be in any of the ranges of the alarm area A1a when the swing position of the working device 130 is neutral as shown in fig. 12 and the alarm area A1b when the swing position of the working device 130 is right as shown in fig. 13. The alarm area A1b is an area after the alarm area A1a is removed from the area where the working device 130 may be located (an area where the working device 130 may be erroneously detected as an obstacle by the obstacle detecting unit 200), and is a narrower area than the alarm area A1 a. In the alarm area A1 (alarm area A1a or A1 b), an area of alarm level 2 and an area of alarm level 1 are set to be distinguished by two-dot chain lines according to the distance from the working device 130.

The alarm area A2 is set to be in a range of either one of the alarm area A2a when the swing position of the working device 130 is neutral as shown in fig. 12 and the alarm area A2b when the swing position of the working device 130 is left as shown in fig. 14. The alarm area A2b is an area excluding an area where the working device 130 may be located from the alarm area A2a, and is a narrower area than the alarm area A2 a. In the alarm area A2 (alarm area A2 a), an alarm level 2 area and an alarm level 1 area are set, which are indicated by two-dot chain lines, in accordance with the distance from the working device 130. In addition, the alarm areas A2 (alarm areas A2 b) are all set to the alarm level 2.

As shown in fig. 12, each of alarm area A3 and alarm area A4 is set to the rear of upper revolving unit 120, and the range of alarm area A3 is larger than the range of alarm area A4. The warning area A3 is a warning area in which the work machine 100 is effective during traveling. The warning area A4 is a warning area in which the work machine 100 is effective when traveling is stopped. In the example shown in fig. 12, the alarm area A3 has the same size as the alarm area A4 in the lateral direction, the alarm area A3 has a large size in the front-rear direction, and the alarm area A3 coincides with the front end of the alarm area A4 and coincides with or substantially coincides with the end of the upper revolving unit 120. Even when upper revolving unit 120 revolves, warning area A3 and warning area A4 of work machine 100 according to the present embodiment are not affected by the direction of lower traveling body 110. That is, when work machine 100 is in the traveling state (or the traveling-possible state), warning area A3 and warning area A4 are always located rearward with respect to upper revolving unit 120. In the alarm area A3, an alarm level 1 and an alarm level 2 are determined using the speed at which the detection object approaches the work machine 100 and the distance between the detection object and the work machine 100 as parameters. In the alarm area A4, the alarm level 1 and the alarm level 2 are determined using the speed at which the object to be detected approaches the work machine 100 and the distance between the object to be detected and the work machine 100 as parameters.

(Outline of drive System)

Fig. 15 is a schematic diagram showing a drive system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in fig. 15, the work machine 100 includes a drive source 300, a hydraulic pump 301, a hydraulic tank 302, a control valve 303, a swing motor 304, a travel motor 305, and a hydraulic swivel 306 as components of a drive system.

The drive source 300 generates a drive force for operating the work machine 100. As the drive source 300, an internal combustion engine and an electric motor are exemplified. The hydraulic pump 301 is driven by the drive source 300, and discharges hydraulic oil. At least a part of the hydraulic oil discharged from the hydraulic pump 301 is supplied to the boom cylinder 131C, the arm cylinder 132C, the bucket cylinder 133C, the swing cylinder 134C, the swing motor 304, and the travel motor 305 via the control valve 303, respectively. The control valve 303 controls the flow rate and direction of the hydraulic oil supplied from the hydraulic pump 301 to the travel motor 305 via the boom cylinder 131C, the arm cylinder 132C, the bucket cylinder 133C, the swing cylinder 134C, the swing motor 304, and the hydraulic swivel 306, respectively, according to the operation state of the operation device 142.

The sensor unit 400 includes a plurality of PPC pressure sensors, switches, and the like, detects the operation state of the operation device 142, and outputs the detection result.

(Structural example of obstacle detection alarm System)

Fig. 16 is a schematic diagram showing an obstacle detection alarm system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The obstacle detection alarm system 600 shown in fig. 16 includes the obstacle detection alarm device 500. The obstacle detection alarm device 500 can be configured using a microcomputer, CPU (Central Processing Unit) or other computer, a peripheral circuit of the computer, a peripheral device or other hardware. The obstacle detection alarm device 500 includes an obstacle detection result acquisition unit 501, a sensor detection result acquisition unit 502, a swing detection result acquisition unit 503, and a reporting unit 504 as a functional configuration configured by a combination of hardware and software such as a program executed by a computer.

The obstacle detection alarm device 500 may be configured using a custom LSI (LARGE SCALE INTEGRATED Circuit) such as PLD (Programmable Logic Device). As an example of PLD, PAL(Programmable Array Logic)、GAL(Generic Array Logic)、CPLD(Complex Programmable Logic Device)、FPGA(Field Programmable Gate Array). in this case, some or all of the functions realized by the processor may be realized by the integrated circuit.

For example, the obstacle detection alarm device 500 may be mounted on the work machine 100, or may be provided in a remote operation room provided remote from the work machine 100.

In the example shown in fig. 16, the sensor unit 400 schematically described with reference to fig. 15 includes a PPC lock lever switch 401, a travel PPC pressure sensor 402, a right-turn PPC pressure sensor 403, and a left-turn PPC pressure sensor 404. The PPC locking lever switch 401 detects whether the PPC locking lever 142LL is in a locked state or an unlocked state, and outputs the detection result as an on/off signal. The travel PPC pressure sensor 402 turns on the output when the right travel lever 142RT and the left travel lever 142LT are operated to instruct travel, and turns off the output when the operation to instruct travel is stopped (or released). The right turning PPC pressure sensor 403 turns on the output when the right turning operation of the upper turning body 120 is instructed by the left lever 142LO or the right lever 142RO, and turns off the output when the right turning operation is instructed to stop (or cancel). The left-turn PPC pressure sensor 404 turns on the output when the left lever 142LO or the right lever 142RO instructs the left turn of the upper turning body 120, and turns off the output when the left turn operation is stopped (or released). The output of the sensor unit 400 may be directly transmitted to the obstacle detection alarm device 500 or may be transmitted via another controller.

In the obstacle detection alarm device 500, the obstacle detection result acquisition unit 501 repeatedly acquires the detection result in the obstacle detection unit 200 at a predetermined cycle.

The sensor detection result acquisition unit 502 repeatedly acquires the detection result in the sensor unit 400 at a predetermined cycle.

The wobble detection result acquisition unit 503 repeatedly acquires the detection result in the wobble detection unit 210 at a predetermined cycle.

The reporting unit 504 performs, based on information acquired by the obstacle detection result acquiring unit 501, the sensor detection result acquiring unit 502, and the swing detection result acquiring unit 503, a determination process as to whether or not to enable a certain alarm area, a determination process as to whether or not to report an alarm in an alarm level 2 or an alarm level 1 in the case of reporting an alarm, and the like, as described below.

(Operation example of obstacle detection alarm device 500)

Fig. 17 shows a correspondence relationship between the result of the determination of the validity/invalidity of the reporting unit 504 to each of the alarm areas A1 to A4 and the combination of the states of the PPC locking lever switch 401, the traveling PPC pressure sensor 402, the right-turn PPC pressure sensor 403, and the left-turn PPC pressure sensor 404 in the open/close (or release/lock) state. Fig. 17 also shows the behavior of the vehicle body (whether or not upper revolving unit 120 is revolved right, revolved left, and whether or not to run) in each correspondence. For example, when the travel PPC pressure sensor 402, the right-turn PPC pressure sensor 403, and the left-turn PPC pressure sensor 404 are all off, only the alarm area A4 is active, and an alarm is sent when an obstacle is detected in the alarm area A4. Even if an obstacle is detected in the other alarm areas A1 to A3, no alarm is given.

Fig. 18 shows a flow of the alarm region valid/invalid determination processing shown in fig. 17 as a state transition diagram. Fig. 19 shows, as a state transition diagram, a flow of a determination process for each of the alarm areas A1 and A2 in which the alarm area A1 is one of the alarm areas A1a and A1b, and a flow of a determination process for each of the alarm areas A2a and A2b in which the alarm area A2 is one of the alarm areas A2 a.

The state transition diagram shown in fig. 18 includes a state ST0 and states ST1 to ST8 of the initial state. The initial state ST0 is a state before the driving source operation, and is changed to the state ST1 by the driving source operation. The state ST1 is a state in which the PPC locking lever 142LL is locked, and all of the alarm areas A1 to A4 are inactive. When the lock of the PPC lock lever 142LL is released, the state ST3 is shifted. The state ST2 includes states ST3 to ST8, and when the PPC lock lever 142LL is locked in any one of the states ST3 to ST8, the state transitions to the state ST1.

The state ST3 is a state in which only the alarm area A4 is active. The state ST4 is a state in which the alarm area A2 and the alarm area A4 are active. The state ST5 is a state in which the alarm areas A1 and A4 are active. The state ST6 is a state in which the alarm areas A1 and A3 are active. The state ST7 is a state in which the alarm area A3 is active. The state ST8 is a state in which the alarm areas A2 and A3 are active.

When the traveling PPC (pressure sensor) becomes on in the state ST3, the state ST7 is shifted. When the right turn PPC (pressure sensor) becomes on in the state ST3, the state ST5 is shifted. When the left turn PPC (pressure sensor) is turned on in the state ST3, the state ST4 is shifted.

When the traveling PPC (pressure sensor) is turned on in the state ST4, the state ST8 is shifted. When the left swing PPC (pressure sensor) becomes off in the state ST4, the state ST3 is shifted.

When the traveling PPC (pressure sensor) is turned on in the state ST5, the state ST6 is shifted. When the right turn PPC (pressure sensor) becomes off in the state ST5, the state ST3 is shifted.

When the traveling PPC (pressure sensor) becomes off in the state ST6, the state ST5 is shifted. When the right turn PPC (pressure sensor) becomes off in the state ST6, the state ST7 is shifted.

When the traveling PPC (pressure sensor) becomes off in the state ST7, the state ST3 is shifted. When the right turn PPC (pressure sensor) is turned on in the state ST7, the state ST6 is shifted. When the left turn PPC (pressure sensor) is turned on in the state ST7, the state ST8 is shifted.

When the traveling PPC (pressure sensor) becomes off in the state ST8, the state ST4 is shifted. When the right turn PPC (pressure sensor) becomes off in the state ST8, the state ST7 is shifted.

The state transition diagram shown in fig. 19 includes states ST11 to ST13. The state ST11 is a state in which the swing position is neutral. In state ST11, alarm area A1 is alarm area A1a, and alarm area A2 is alarm area A2a. In state ST12, alarm area A1 is alarm area A1a, and alarm area A2 is alarm area A2b. In state ST13, alarm area A1 is alarm area A1b, and alarm area A2 is alarm area A2a. When the boom swing position is right in the state ST11, the state ST13 is shifted. When the boom swing position is neutral in state ST13, the state transitions to state ST 11. When the boom swing position becomes left in the state ST11, the state ST12 is shifted. When the boom swing position is neutral in state ST12, the state transitions to state ST 11.

Next, an example of the operation of the obstacle detection alarm device 500 will be described with reference to flowcharts shown in fig. 20 to 24. Fig. 20 is a main flow of the operation example described here. The process shown in fig. 20 is repeatedly executed at a predetermined cycle in a state where the PPC locking lever 142LL is unlocked during the drive source operation.

In the process shown in fig. 20, the obstacle detection alarm device 500 acquires the detection result of the obstacle detection unit (step S101), acquires the detection result of the sensor unit (step S102), acquires the detection result of the swing direction (step S103), and releases the alarm level 1 detection state and the alarm level 2 detection state (step S104). Next, the obstacle detection alarm device 500 (the reporting unit 504) executes alarm switching/determination processing (step S105). In step S105, the reporting unit 504 executes the alarm switching/determining process shown in fig. 21. In the alarm switching/determining process of step S105, it is set whether the alarm level 1 detection state, the alarm level 2 detection state, or not any one of such detection states.

After step S105, the reporting unit 504 determines whether or not the alarm level 2 detection state is present (step S106), and if the alarm level 2 detection state is present (yes in step S106), reports an alarm of alarm level 2 (step S107), and ends the processing shown in fig. 20. On the other hand, if the state is not the alarm level 2 detection state (step S106: no), the reporting unit 504 determines whether or not the state is the alarm level 1 detection state (step S108), and if the state is the alarm level 1 detection state (step S108: yes), reports an alarm of the alarm level 1 (step S109), and ends the processing shown in fig. 20. On the other hand, if the alarm level 1 detection state is not established (step S108: NO), the reporting unit 504 ends the processing shown in FIG. 20.

Next, with reference to fig. 21, the alarm switching/determination process performed in step S105 of fig. 20 will be described. The processing shown in fig. 21 is executed by the reporting unit 504.

The reporting unit 504 first performs alarm determination for all the detection areas (step S201). The detection areas are six types, and in step S201, the inside and outside of the alarm level 1 area and the alarm level 2 area are determined (detection areas: alarm areas A1a, A1b, A2a, A2b, A3, and A4), respectively. The reporting unit 504 determines whether one or more obstacles are detected, whether the alarm level 1 is satisfied, and whether the alarm level 2 is satisfied for each of the alarm areas A1a, A1b, A2a, A2b, A3, and A4.

Next, the reporting unit 504 executes the masking process of the alarm determination result (alarm areas A1a and A1 b) (step S202), the masking process of the alarm determination result (alarm areas A2a and A2 b) (step S203), and the masking process of the alarm determination result (alarm areas A3 and A4) (step S204). In steps S202 to S204, the reporting unit 504 performs a masking (alarm invalidation) process of the alarm determination result for each detection area.

In the masking process (alarm areas A1a, A1 b) of the alarm determination result of step S202, as shown in fig. 22, the reporting unit 504 first determines whether the right turn PPC sensor is off (step S301). When the right-turn PPC sensor is turned off (yes in step S301), the notification unit 504 shields the alarm areas A1a and A1b (step S302), and ends the process shown in fig. 22. When the right swing PPC sensor is on (no in step S301), the reporting unit 504 determines whether or not the boom swing position is right (step S303). When the boom swing position is right (yes in step S303), the notification unit 504 shields the alarm area A1a (step S304), and ends the processing shown in fig. 22. When the boom swing position is not right (no in step S303), the notification unit 504 shields the alarm area A1b (step S305), and the process shown in fig. 22 is terminated.

The condition for performing step S302 is that the rotation of upper revolving unit 120 is stopped or left. The condition for performing step S304 is that the swing of upper swing body 120 is right and the boom swing position is right. The condition for executing step S305 is that the swing of upper swing body 120 is right, and the boom swing position is neutral or left.

In the masking process (alarm areas A2a, A2 b) of the alarm determination result of step S203, as shown in fig. 23, the reporting unit 504 first determines whether the left-turn PPC sensor is turned off (step S401). When the left-turn PPC sensor is turned off (yes in step S401), the notification unit 504 shields the alarm areas A2a and A2b (step S402), and ends the process shown in fig. 23. When the left swing PPC sensor is on (no in step S401), the reporting unit 504 determines whether or not the boom swing position is left (step S403). When the boom swing position is left (yes in step S403), the notification unit 504 shields the alarm area A2a (step S404), and ends the processing shown in fig. 23. When the boom swing position is not left (no in step S403), the notification unit 504 shields the alarm area A2b (step S405), and the process shown in fig. 23 is terminated.

The condition for performing step S402 is that the rotation of upper revolving unit 120 is stopped or right. The condition for performing step S404 is that the swing of upper swing body 120 is left and the boom swing position is left. The condition for performing step S405 is that the swing of upper swing body 120 is left, and the boom swing position is neutral or right.

In the masking process (alarm areas A3 and A4) of the alarm determination result in step S204, as shown in fig. 24, the reporting unit 504 first determines whether or not the travel PPC sensor is off (step S501). When the travel PPC sensor is off (yes in step S501), the notification unit 504 shields the alarm area A3 (step S502), and the process shown in fig. 24 is terminated. When the travel PPC sensor is on (no in step S501), the notification unit 504 shields the alarm area A4 (step S503), and the process shown in fig. 24 is terminated.

The condition for executing step S502 is that work machine 100 is in a travel stop. The condition for executing step S503 is that work machine 100 is traveling.

When the process of step S204 shown in fig. 21 is completed, the reporting unit 504 executes the processes of steps S205 to S213 for all the detection areas (alarm areas A1a, A1b, A2a, A2b, A3, and A4). The processing of step S205 to step S213 is loop processing for checking each detection region. In the loop processing, the reporting unit 504 first determines whether or not the alarm is a valid detection area (unshielded detection area) (step S206). If the alarm is not a valid detection area (step S206: no), the reporting unit 504 performs loop processing on the next detection area (S213).

When the alarm is a valid detection area (yes in step S206), the reporting unit 504 determines whether or not the alarm area under processing is the alarm area A3 (step S207). If the detected obstacle is the alarm area A3 (yes in step S207), the reporting unit 504 determines whether or not the detected obstacle is an obstacle that is all far away (step S208). In step S208, it is determined whether the obstacle is a distant obstacle by determining whether the speed vector of the obstacle is equal to or greater than a predetermined value set by the parameter in the Y-axis direction.

When it is detected that one of the obstacles is not a distant obstacle (step S208: no), or when it is not the alarm area A3 (step S207: no), the reporting unit 504 determines whether or not the alarm level 1 is detected (step S209), and when it is detected (step S209: yes), sets the alarm level 1 detection state (step S210).

When all the detected obstacles are far away (yes in step S208), when no alarm level 1 is detected (no in step S209), or after step S210 is executed, the reporting unit 504 determines whether or not an alarm level 2 is detected (step S211), and when detected (yes in step S211), sets an alarm level 2 detection state (step S212).

If the alarm level 2 is not detected (no in step S211), or after step S212 is executed, the reporting unit 504 performs a loop process on the next detected area (S213).

In the above processing, regarding the alarm area 3, the alarm level 1 detection state may be set only when there is a close obstacle, and the alarm level 2 detection state may be set only when there is a complete distant obstacle.

By the above-described processing, in the obstacle detection alarm device 500, the reporting unit 504 can perform a determination process as to whether or not to enable a certain alarm area, a determination process as to whether or not to report an alarm, and a determination process as to whether or not to report an alarm in any of the alarm levels 2 and 1 when reporting an alarm, based on the information acquired by the obstacle detection result acquisition unit 501, the sensor detection result acquisition unit 502, and the swing detection result acquisition unit 503.

(Specific example of operation)

Next, a specific operation example of the obstacle detection alarm system 600 will be described with reference to fig. 25 to 30. Fig. 25 shows an example in which a person H1 is detected in the alarm area A1 during the right turn of the upper turning body 120. In this case, the obstacle detection alarm system 600 reports an alarm of alarm level 1 or alarm level 2. Fig. 26 shows an example in which no obstacle is detected in warning area A1 and a person H2 is detected in warning area A2 in the right turn of upper turning body 120. In this case, the obstacle detection alarm system 600 does not report an alarm. Fig. 27 shows an example in which a person H3 is detected in the alarm area A1 during the stop of the rotation of the upper revolving unit 120. In this case, the obstacle detection alarm system 600 does not report an alarm.

Fig. 28 shows an example in which the person H4 is detected in the warning area A4 when the work machine 100 is not traveling. In this case, the obstacle detection alarm system 600 reports an alarm of alarm level 1 or alarm level 2. Fig. 29 shows an example in which a person H5 is detected in the warning area A3 during traveling of the work machine 100. In this case, the obstacle detection alarm system 600 reports an alarm of alarm level 1 or alarm level 2. Fig. 30 shows an example in which the person H6 is detected in the warning area A3 when the work machine 100 is not traveling. In this case, the obstacle detection alarm system 600 does not report an alarm.

(Basic configuration example of obstacle detection alarm system 600)

Next, a basic configuration example (minimum configuration example) of the obstacle detection alarm system 600 will be described. The obstacle detection alarm system 600 can be grasped as an obstacle detection alarm system 601 shown in fig. 31, an obstacle detection alarm system 602 shown in fig. 32, or an obstacle detection alarm system 603 shown in fig. 33.

The obstacle detection alarm system 601 shown in fig. 31 includes: a swing operation unit 611 (a structure corresponding to left lever 142LO or right lever 142 RO) that instructs upper swing body 120 of work machine 100 to swing; an obstacle detection unit 200 that detects an obstacle located around the work machine 100; and a notification unit 504 that issues an alarm when the obstacle detection unit 200 detects an obstacle in the rotation direction of the upper rotation body 120 indicated by the rotation operation unit 611. Note that, when the turning operation unit 611 has stopped the instruction of turning the upper turning body 120, the reporting unit 504 stops reporting the alarm. In addition, the reporting unit 504 changes the reporting mode of the alarm according to the distance between the work implement 130 of the work machine 100 and the obstacle detected by the obstacle detecting unit 200.

The obstacle detection alarm system 602 shown in fig. 32 includes: an obstacle detection unit 200 that detects an obstacle located around the work machine 100; and a notification unit 504 that issues an alarm when the obstacle detection unit 200 detects an obstacle in a first alarm region (alarm region A3) when the work machine 100 is traveling, and issues an alarm when the obstacle detection unit 200 detects an obstacle in a second alarm region (alarm region A4) that is narrower than the first alarm region when the work machine 100 is stopped. The obstacle detection warning system 602 further includes a travel operation unit 621 (corresponding to the left travel bar 142LT and the right travel bar 142 RT) that operates the lower travel body 110 of the work machine 100, and the notification unit 504 stops the notification of the warning when the travel operation unit 621 instructs the stop of the lower travel body 110. The reporting unit 504 changes the reporting mode of the alarm according to the distance between the work machine 100 and the obstacle detected by the obstacle detecting unit 200 and the relative speed between the work machine 100 and the obstacle.

The obstacle detection alarm system 603 shown in fig. 33 includes: an obstacle detection unit 200 that detects an obstacle around a work machine 100 having a swingable work implement 130; and a notification unit 504 that issues an alarm when the obstacle detection unit detects an obstacle in a first alarm region (alarm regions A1b, A2 b) when the working device 130 swings, and issues an alarm when the obstacle detection unit 200 detects an obstacle in a second alarm region (alarm regions A1a, A2 a) that is larger than the first alarm region when the working device 130 does not swing. The reporting unit 504 changes the reporting mode of the alarm according to the distance between the work implement 130 of the work machine 100 and the obstacle detected by the obstacle detecting unit 200. In addition, the notification unit 504 determines whether or not the working device 130 swings based on the outputs of the plurality of proximity switches (the proximity switch (1) 211 and the proximity switch (2) 212) having different on/off states in the state where the working device 130 swings rightward, the neutral state, and the state where the working device 130 swings leftward.

(Action/Effect)

According to the obstacle detection alarm system, the obstacle detection alarm method, and the work machine of the present disclosure, an alarm can be appropriately given to obstacles around the work machine.

The embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the drawings, but the specific configuration is not limited to the above embodiments, and design changes and the like without departing from the scope of the present invention are also included. In the above embodiments, a part or all of the program executed by the computer may be distributed via a recording medium or a communication line that can be read by the computer.

For example, the obstacle detecting unit 200 is not limited to the millimeter wave radar, and may be configured using a laser radar, a camera, or the like (or may be combined with the millimeter wave radar). The shape of the alarm region is not limited to a semicircular shape or a rectangular shape, and may be any shape.

Industrial applicability

According to the aspects of the present invention, an alarm can be appropriately given to an obstacle located around the work machine.

Reference numerals illustrate:

100 … work machine; 110 … lower run body; 120 … upper gyrorotor; 130 … working devices; 200 … obstacle detection units; 210 … wobble detection part; 211 … proximity switch (1); 212 … proximity switch (2); 500 … obstacle detection alarm means; 504 … report part; 600. 601, 602, 603 … obstacle detection alarm systems; 611 … a swing operation portion; 621 … running operation portion.

Claims (5)

1. An obstacle detection alarm system, wherein,

The obstacle detection alarm system is provided with:

A turning operation unit that instructs an upper turning body provided in the work machine to turn;

An obstacle detection unit that detects an obstacle located around the work machine; and

And a notification unit that issues an alarm when the obstacle detection unit detects an obstacle in the rotation direction of the upper rotation body indicated by the rotation operation unit.

2. The obstacle detection alarm system according to claim 1, wherein,

The alarm reporting unit stops the alarm reporting when the turning operation unit stops the turning of the upper turning body.

3. The obstacle detection alarm system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein,

The alarm reporting unit changes the alarm reporting mode according to the distance between the work machine and the obstacle detected by the obstacle detecting unit.

4. An obstacle detection alarm method, wherein,

The obstacle detection alarm method includes:

A step of acquiring an instruction of the swing operation unit to swing the upper swing body of the work machine;

A step of acquiring a result of detection of an obstacle located around the work machine by an obstacle detection unit; and

And a step of issuing an alarm when the obstacle detecting unit detects an obstacle in the rotation direction of the upper rotation body indicated by the rotation operating unit.

5. A work machine having an upper revolving structure, wherein,

The work machine is provided with an obstacle detection alarm system,

The obstacle detection alarm system includes:

a turning operation unit that instructs the upper turning body to turn;

An obstacle detection unit that detects an obstacle located around the work machine; and

And a notification unit that issues an alarm when the obstacle detection unit detects an obstacle in the rotation direction of the upper rotation body indicated by the rotation operation unit.