JP4232655B2 - System and method for managing operating status of industrial vehicles - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a system and method for managing the operating status of an industrial vehicle, and more particularly to a system and method for creating and displaying data for grasping, examining, and managing the operating status of an industrial vehicle.

Industrial vehicles such as forklifts are widely used in various work sites. And if each industrial vehicle can be operated efficiently, work efficiency will improve as a whole. Thus, techniques for managing the operating status of industrial vehicles have been proposed.
For example, Patent Document 1 describes a technique for improving the operation efficiency of a vehicle. Specifically, an information terminal is mounted on an industrial vehicle, and the information terminal collects outputs of various sensors. The information terminal includes a communication interface and transmits collected information to the server device. The server device creates vehicle operating state data (daily operating time, running time, cargo handling time, standby time, etc.) based on information received from an information terminal mounted on an industrial vehicle, and graphs them. To display. These data are used as materials for efficiently operating industrial vehicles or materials for efficiently performing maintenance.
Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2002-187689 (FIGS. 1, 3, 4, 6, paragraphs 0047-0051, abstract)

  As described above, techniques for improving the operating efficiency of industrial vehicles have been proposed. However, in the prior art, it is known that the operation time, the travel time, the cargo handling time, the standby time, etc. for each predetermined period (for example, one day, one month, etc.) are displayed in a graph. In some cases, it is not sufficient as data for determining whether or not the vehicle is operating efficiently. Further, in the prior art, when monitoring the operation efficiency, it is not considered whether or not the industrial vehicle is loaded with luggage. Therefore, even with this, it cannot be said that the operating efficiency of the industrial vehicle can be accurately grasped. Furthermore, in the prior art, it cannot be said that information for individually managing each worker who drives or operates an industrial vehicle is sufficiently collected.

  An object of the present invention is to be able to provide sufficient data for determining whether an industrial vehicle is operating efficiently. A further object of the present invention is to provide materials for grasping the work efficiency of each worker who drives or operates an industrial vehicle.

The system for managing the operation status of the industrial vehicle according to the present invention includes a detection means for detecting the state of the industrial vehicle, and the state of the industrial vehicle based on the output of the detection means is a loaded travel state, an empty travel state, a load A determination unit that determines whether the vehicle is in a stopped state or an unloaded state, and a display unit that displays a determination result of the determination unit on a time axis.
The detection means includes travel detection means for detecting whether or not the industrial vehicle is traveling, and loading detection means for detecting whether or not the industrial vehicle is loaded with luggage. The determination means includes first determination means for determining the state of the industrial vehicle based on outputs of the travel detection means and the load detection means at predetermined time intervals, and for each unit time longer than the predetermined time interval. 2nd determination means for determining the state of the industrial vehicle based on the determination result by the first determination means.
The second determination unit is configured to load, travel, empty, load stop time, empty stop time within the unit time based on a plurality of determination results obtained by the first determination unit within the unit time. Calculating a load stop time, comparing the loaded travel time with a first threshold, comparing the unloaded travel time with a second threshold, and comparing the load stop time with a third threshold; The state of the industrial vehicle within the unit time is determined based on a comparison result when the empty stop time is compared with the fourth threshold value.
The second determination means further determines that the industrial vehicle is in a loaded traveling state when the loaded traveling time is greater than the first threshold, and the loaded traveling time is equal to or less than the first threshold. And when the unloading travel time is greater than the second threshold value, it is determined that the industrial vehicle is in an unloaded traveling state, and the loading traveling time and the unloading traveling time are respectively , When it is equal to or less than a second threshold and the loading stop time is greater than the third threshold, the industrial vehicle is determined to be in a loading stop state, and the loading travel time, the empty travel time, When the loading stop time is less than or equal to the first, second, and third threshold values, respectively, and the empty load stop time is greater than the fourth threshold value, the industrial vehicle is in an empty load stop state. to decide. And the said display means displays the determination result by the said 2nd determination means on a time-axis.

A system for managing the operating status of an industrial vehicle according to another aspect of the present invention includes: a detecting unit that detects the state of the industrial vehicle;
It has a determination means for determining whether the vehicle is in a normal running state, a cargo handling operation state or a stopped state, and a display means for displaying the determination result by the determination means on the time axis.
The detection means includes travel detection means for detecting whether or not the industrial vehicle is traveling, and cargo handling operation detection means for detecting whether or not the industrial vehicle is performing a cargo handling operation. The determination means includes first determination means for determining the state of the industrial vehicle based on outputs of the travel detection means and the cargo handling operation detection means at predetermined time intervals, and unit time longer than the predetermined time interval. The second determination means for determining the state of the industrial vehicle based on the determination result by the first determination means.
The second determining means is based on a plurality of determination results obtained by the first determining means within the unit time, and the cargo handling travel time, the normal travel time, the cargo handling operation time, and the stop time within the unit time. Are further calculated, the cargo handling travel time is compared with a first threshold, the normal travel time is compared with a second threshold, the cargo handling operation time is compared with a third threshold, and the stop time is calculated. The state of the industrial vehicle within the unit time is determined based on the comparison result when compared with the fourth threshold.
The second determination means further determines that the industrial vehicle is in a cargo handling state when the cargo handling time is greater than the first threshold, and the cargo handling time is equal to or less than the first threshold. When the normal travel time is larger than the second threshold, it is determined that the industrial vehicle is in a normal travel state, and the cargo handling travel time and the normal travel time are the first and second respectively. When the cargo handling operation time is greater than the third threshold, it is determined that the industrial vehicle is in the cargo handling operation state, and the cargo handling travel time, the normal travel time, and the cargo handling operation time are determined. When the respective threshold values are equal to or less than the first, second, and third threshold values and the stop time is longer than the fourth threshold value, it is determined that the industrial vehicle is in a stop state. And the said display means displays the determination result by the said 2nd determination means on a time-axis.

According to these inventions, the data relating to the state of the industrial vehicle is detected by the detecting means, and the state of the industrial vehicle for each unit time is determined based on the detection result. Then, the determination result is expressed and displayed on the time axis. Thereby, since the work flow of the industrial vehicle is displayed in a visually easy-to-see manner, it is possible to accurately determine whether or not the industrial vehicle is operating efficiently when the work is improved. Further , according to this configuration, since the state of the industrial vehicle is determined every unit time, if the unit time is appropriately set, the flow of work can be accurately expressed while suppressing the amount of data processing. it can.

  In the system, the travel detection means, the load detection means, and the first determination means are mounted on the industrial vehicle, and the second determination means and the display means can communicate with the industrial vehicle. You may make it provide in. In this case, since processing on the industrial vehicle side can be lightened, it is not necessary to provide expensive resources on the industrial vehicle side.

Also, the running detecting means, the loading operation detection means and the first judging means is mounted on the industrial vehicle, providing the second judging means and the display means to communicate a server device and the industrial vehicle You may do it. The operations and effects of these configurations are basically the same as those of the above-described invention.

  The system may further include identification means for identifying an operator who drives or operates the industrial vehicle. In this case, the determination means determines the state of the industrial vehicle for each worker identified by the identification means, and the display means displays a determination result by the determination means. The display means may display the determination result by the determination means for each worker.

  A system for managing the operating status of an industrial vehicle according to another aspect of the present invention includes a travel distance detecting means for detecting a travel distance of the industrial vehicle, and a load detecting means for detecting whether or not the industrial vehicle is loaded with a load. And a determination means for obtaining and outputting the distance traveled by the industrial vehicle in a loaded state and the distance traveled by the industrial vehicle in an unloaded state based on the outputs of the travel distance detecting means and the load detecting means. Have. Alternatively, the output of the travel distance detecting means for detecting the travel distance of the industrial vehicle, the load handling operation detecting means for detecting whether or not the industrial vehicle is performing a cargo handling operation, and the output of the travel distance detecting means and the cargo handling operation detecting means. And determining means for obtaining and outputting a distance traveled by the industrial vehicle while performing a cargo handling operation and a distance traveled by the industrial vehicle without performing a cargo handling operation.

  According to these inventions, the distance traveled by the industrial vehicle loaded with luggage, the distance traveled by the industrial vehicle in an empty state, the distance traveled by the industrial vehicle while performing the cargo handling operation, and the industrial vehicle performs the cargo handling operation. The distance traveled can be obtained and output without any problem.

According to the present invention, data relating to the state of the industrial vehicle is automatically collected and displayed in time series on the time axis, so that it can be determined whether or not the industrial vehicle is operating efficiently. Sufficient materials can be created easily.
Further, if those data are edited and displayed for each worker, the worker who is performing inefficient work can be identified, and therefore an appropriate work improvement measure can be proposed.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the following description, a forklift is taken as an example of an industrial vehicle. However, the present invention is not limited to this and can be applied to other industrial vehicles (for example, an excavator).
FIG. 1 is an external view of a forklift 1 according to an embodiment. The forklift 1 may be an engine vehicle or a battery vehicle.

  The forklift 1 includes a vehicle speed sensor 2 that detects the vehicle speed of the forklift 1, a load sensor 3 that detects whether or not the forklift 1 is loaded with cargo, and a cargo handling that detects whether or not a cargo handling operation is being performed by an operator. An operation detection sensor 4 is provided. Although the vehicle speed sensor 2 is not specifically limited, For example, it is implement | achieved by the sensor which detects the rotation speed of the shaft connected with the tire 5. FIG. Although the load sensor 3 is not specifically limited, For example, it is implement | achieved by the sensor which detects the weight of the load loaded on the fork 6. FIG. The cargo handling operation detection sensor 4 is not particularly limited. For example, a sensor that detects whether the cargo handling lever 7 is operated by an operator (that is, whether the cargo handling lever 7 is in the neutral position). It is realized by. In the engine vehicle, the cargo handling operation detection sensor 4 can be realized by, for example, a switch that is turned on when the cargo handling lever 7 is shifted from the neutral position. Moreover, in a battery car, it is realizable with the sensor or circuit which detects the signal which drives the motor for cargo handling, for example. Further, the key switch 8 is a switch for instructing the operator to start / stop the engine or motor of the forklift 1.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the forklift 1. Here, only the configuration directly related to the present invention is illustrated.
The CPU 11 detects the state of the forklift 1 based on the outputs of the vehicle speed sensor 2, the load sensor 3, and the cargo handling operation detection sensor 4. Here, the outputs of the vehicle speed sensor 2, the load sensor 3, and the cargo handling operation detection sensor 4 are converted into signals that can be recognized by the CPU 11 by the vehicle speed detection interface 12, the load detection interface 13, and the load operation detection interface 14, respectively. The CPU 11 executes a program described in advance and stored in the ROM 15.

  The RAM 16 is used as a work area for the CPU 11. The real time clock IC 17 outputs information representing time. Note that a backup power supply 18 is connected to the RAM 16 and the real-time clock IC 17 so that power is supplied even when the entire forklift is stopped.

  The communication interface 19 transmits the detection result by the CPU 11 (that is, data indicating the operating state of the forklift 1) to the server device 100. Here, the communication method is not particularly limited, and may be a wireless LAN or a method of transmitting a signal via a cable.

The server apparatus 100 is a computer, analyzes data representing the operating state received from the forklift 1, and displays the operating status of the forklift 1.
In addition, the system 200 for managing the operation status of the industrial vehicle according to the embodiment includes the components of the forklift 1 illustrated in FIG. 2 and the server device 100. Then, the forklift 1 collects information regarding its own operating state. Further, the server device 100 creates and displays data for grasping, examining, and managing the operation status of the forklift 1 based on the information collected by the forklift 1.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the server apparatus 100. The CPU 101 loads a previously described program from the storage device 102 to the memory 103 and executes it. The storage device 102 is a hard disk, for example, and stores the program. Note that the storage device 102 may be an external storage device connected to the computer 100. The memory 103 is a semiconductor memory, for example, and is used as a work area for the CPU 101.

  The recording medium drive device 104 accesses the portable recording medium 105 in accordance with instructions from the CPU 101. The portable recording medium 105 is not particularly limited, but for example, a semiconductor device (memory card or the like), a medium (flexible disk, magnetic tape, or the like) to which information is input / output by a magnetic action, or an optical action. Assume a medium (such as an optical disk) through which information is input and output. The communication control device 106 transmits / receives data via the network in accordance with instructions from the CPU 101. The display device 107 displays display data created by the CPU 101.

  The “detecting means” in the claims is realized by, for example, the vehicle speed sensor 2, the load sensor 3, and the cargo handling operation detection sensor 4. The “determination means” is realized by the CPU 11 and the CPU 101, for example. The “display unit” is realized by the CPU 101 and the display device 107, for example. The “running detection unit” is realized by the vehicle speed sensor 2, for example. The “loading detection unit” is realized by the load sensor 3, for example. Note that the load detection means is not limited to a load sensor, and may be realized by, for example, a limit sensor that detects whether or not a predetermined weight is exceeded. The “first determination unit” is realized by the CPU 11, for example. The “second determination unit” is realized by the CPU 101, for example. The “load handling operation detection means” is realized by, for example, the load handling operation detection sensor 4. The “travel distance detection means” is realized by the vehicle speed sensor 2 and the CPU 11, for example. The “calculation means” is realized by the CPU 11, for example.

In the first embodiment, the operating state of the forklift 1 is detected using the outputs of the vehicle speed sensor 2 and the load sensor 3, and data related to the operating state of the forklift 1 is generated based on the detection result.
FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating the operation on the forklift side in the first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram schematically showing a hardware configuration used when executing the processing of the flowchart shown in FIG.

The process of the flowchart shown in FIG. 4 is repeatedly executed by the CPU 11 at predetermined time intervals. Here, the “predetermined time interval” is not particularly limited, and is, for example, about several milliseconds to 1 second. In this embodiment, it is assumed that it is 10 milliseconds.
In step S1, based on the output of the vehicle speed sensor 2, it is detected whether or not the forklift 1 is traveling. Specifically, if “vehicle speed = 0”, it is determined as “stop”, and if not, it is determined as “running”. If the forklift 1 is traveling, the process proceeds to step S2, and if the forklift 1 is stopped, the process proceeds to step S11.

  In step S2, the travel distance of the forklift 1 is detected based on the output of the vehicle speed sensor 2. Here, the travel distance can be calculated by integrating the output of the vehicle speed sensor 2 with time. For example, assuming that the output of the vehicle speed sensor 2 is “2.5 m / second”, the forklift 1 is set to “0.025 m (= 2.5 × 0.01) ”is estimated to travel.

  In step S3, based on the output of the load sensor 3, it is detected whether or not the forklift 1 is loaded with a load. Specifically, if the output of the load sensor 3 exceeds a predetermined value, it is determined as “loading state”; otherwise, it is determined as “empty state”. If the forklift 1 is loaded with a load, the process proceeds to step S4. If the forklift 1 is in an unloaded state, the process proceeds to step S6.

  In step S4, the loading travel time counter 21 is incremented. Subsequently, in step S5, the value calculated in step S2 is added to the loaded travel distance data held in the load travel distance memory 25. Then, the loaded travel distance memory 25 is updated with the addition result.

  Similarly, in step S6, the empty travel time counter 22 is incremented. Subsequently, in step S7, the value calculated in step S2 is added to the empty mileage data stored in the empty mileage memory 26. The empty mileage memory 26 is updated with this addition result.

  On the other hand, when the forklift 1 is stopped (step S1: No), in step S11, based on the output of the load sensor 3, it is detected whether the forklift 1 is loaded. This process is the same as step S3. If the forklift 1 is loaded with a load, the loading stop time counter 23 is incremented in step S12. Similarly, when the forklift 1 is in an unloaded state, the unloaded stop time counter 24 is incremented in step S13.

  The flowchart shown in FIG. 4 is repeatedly executed at predetermined intervals, that is, every 10 milliseconds. Each time the state of the forklift 1 is detected, the corresponding counters 21 to 24 are incremented according to the detection result, and the memories 25 and 26 are updated as necessary.

The above-described counters 21 to 24 and memories 25 to 26 are realized, for example, on the operating state table 27 shown in FIG. Here, the operating state table 27 is created on the RAM 16, for example.
In FIG. 6, addresses X to X + 13 are reserved for registering data for the period from 9:12 to 9:13 on May 6, 2003. Then, the CPU 11 updates the corresponding area of the operating state table 27 every time the flowchart shown in FIG. 4 is executed within the period. Specifically, for example, when “loading travel” is detected at 9:12 to 9:13 on May 6, 2003, a data area corresponding to the load travel time counter 21 (here, X + 10 address) ) Is incremented by 10 milliseconds, and the value obtained in step S2 is cumulatively added to the value of the data area (here, X + 6 address to X + 7 address) corresponding to the loading travel distance memory 25.

  The CPU 11 switches the data area in the operation state table 27 corresponding to the counters 21 to 24 and the memories 25 to 26 every predetermined unit time. Here, the “predetermined unit time” is not particularly limited, but is a time sufficiently longer than the “predetermined time interval” for repeatedly executing the flowchart shown in FIG. In this embodiment, the “predetermined unit time” is “1 minute”.

The counters 21 to 24 and the memories 25 to 26 are reset every predetermined unit time.
Further, during the period in which the key switch 8 is keyed off, the processing of the flowchart shown in FIG. 4 is not executed, and nothing is written in the operation state table 27. The example shown in FIG. 6 indicates that the key switch 8 is keyed off during the period from 9:13 to 9:36. Furthermore, during the period from 9:36 to 9:37, the total value of “loading travel time”, “empty travel time”, “loading stop time”, and “empty stop time” is 45 seconds. This shows that the key switch 8 has been keyed off for 15 seconds in this one minute.

  The operating state table 27 created as described above is transmitted to the server device 100 via the communication interface 19. In addition, the opportunity which transmits the operation state table 27 to a server is not specifically limited. That is, for example, when an operation for one day is completed, an operation state table storing data for the entire day may be transmitted in a batch. Or you may make it transmit, when the forklift 1 is located in a predetermined | prescribed area (For example, the area adjacent to the server apparatus 100, the parking area provided previously, etc.). Further, the operating state table 27 is not necessarily transmitted to the server device 100 via the communication interface 19. That is, for example, the operating state table 27 may be temporarily stored in a portable recording medium such as a memory card and supplied to the server apparatus 100 using the recording medium.

The server device 100 aggregates / analyzes the data registered in the operation state table 27 received from the forklift 1 and displays the result on the display device 107.
FIG. 7A is an example in which the “loading travel time”, “empty travel time”, “loading stop time”, and “empty stop time” of the forklift 1 of a certain day are displayed in a graph. Here, the total time for each state is obtained by adding data for each unit time registered in the operating state table 27 for each state. In this example, data aggregation is performed every day, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the data may be aggregated every hour, every week, or every month. In this example, the four states (loading travel time, unloading travel time, loading stop time, unload stop time) are graphed. However, the “key-off time” may be displayed together.

If such a graph is created, it can be easily recognized how much time the forklift 1 took in which state. And this graph can be used for work improvement.
FIG. 7B is an example in which the “loading travel distance” and “empty travel distance” of the forklift 1 of a certain day are displayed in a graph. Here, each total distance is obtained by adding the “loading travel distance” and “empty travel distance” for each unit time registered in the operation state table 27. In this example as well, data aggregation is performed every day. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the data may be aggregated every hour, every week, or every month.

  If such a graph is created, it can be easily recognized whether or not the forklift 1 is traveling wastefully. And this graph can be used for work improvement. That is, for example, the state in which the forklift 1 travels with an empty load is basically considered to have poor work efficiency. Therefore, as in the example shown in FIG. 7B, when the distance traveled by the empty load is longer than the distance traveled by the forklift 1 loaded with a load, the overall work efficiency is poor. Therefore, it is determined that a change in the factory layout, a change in the standby position of the forklift 1, and the like should be considered.

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart of processing for determining a state for each unit time. This process is executed by the server 100. This process is executed for each data within each unit time registered in the operation state table 27 received from the forklift 1. For example, in the operating state table 27 shown in FIG. 6, since the operating state data is registered every minute, the server apparatus 100 performs the operation from “9:12 to 9:13”. "Status data" "Operation status data from 9:13 to 9:14", "Operation status data from 9:14 to 9:15", and so on. The process of the flowchart shown in FIG. 8 is executed.

  Further, threshold value A to threshold value D are set in advance in server apparatus 100 for the processing of the flowchart shown in FIG. Here, these threshold values are parameters for determining the state of the forklift 1 in the unit time, and A, B, C, and D are threshold values for determining whether or not each is in a loaded traveling state. The threshold value for determining whether or not the vehicle is in an empty traveling state, the threshold value for determining whether or not the vehicle is in a loading stop state, and the threshold value for determining whether or not the vehicle is in an unloading stopped state. Note that these threshold values may be the same value or different values.

In step S21, operation state data for one unit time is read from the operation state table 27. Here, as shown in FIG. 6, the operating state data includes a loading travel time, an unloading travel time, a loading stop time, and an unloaded stop time in association with the date / time.
In step S22, the operation state data read last time is compared with the operation state data read this time, and it is checked whether or not the “time” of these data is continuous. Here, it is assumed that the times are continuous, and the process proceeds to step S23.

In step S <b> 23, the “loading travel time” read from the operation state table 27 is compared with the threshold value A. At this time, if the “loading travel time” is larger than the threshold A, it is determined that the state of the forklift 1 in the unit time is “loading travel”.
Steps S24, S25, and S26 are basically the same processing as step S23. That is, if the “empty travel time” is larger than the threshold B, it is determined that the state of the forklift 1 in the unit time is “empty travel”. Further, if the “loading stop time” is larger than the threshold value C, it is determined that the state of the forklift 1 in the unit time is “loading stop”. Further, if the “empty stop time” is larger than the threshold value D, it is determined that the state of the forklift 1 in the unit time is “empty stop”. In addition, when it is determined as “No” in all of steps S23 to S26, it is regarded as “not applicable”.

  In step S27, the address of the operating state table 27 to be accessed next is set. Thereafter, the process returns to step S21, the operation state data in the next unit time is read, and the processes after step S22 are executed. And the above-mentioned determination result is written in the determination result table shown in FIG.

  For example, it is assumed that the operation state data from 9:12 to 9:13 is read from the operation state table 27. Further, it is assumed that “threshold A = 20 seconds”, “threshold B = 20 seconds”, “threshold C = 15 seconds”, and “threshold D = 15 seconds”. In this case, since “Yes” is obtained in step S24, the state of the forklift 1 from 9:12 to 9:13 is determined as “empty travel”.

  In step S22, when the “time” of the operation state data read last time and the “time” of the operation state data read this time are discontinuous, it is determined that the state of the forklift 1 between them is “key-off state”. Is done. For example, it is assumed that the data at addresses X to X + 13 in the operating state table 27 shown in FIG. 6 is read and the above-described determination is performed, and subsequently the data at addresses X + 14 to X + 27 is read. At this time, the “time” of these data jumps from “9:12” to “9:36”. Therefore, in this case, it is determined that the forklift 1 was in the “key-off state” for the period from 9:13 to 9:36.

  FIG. 10 is a display example of the determination result. In the example shown in FIG. 10, only a part of the display result is drawn for easy viewing of the drawing. However, data for one day may be displayed on one screen. Moreover, in FIG. 10, the operating status of a plurality of forklifts (No. 1 to No. 3) is displayed. Here, when the server apparatus 100 receives the operation state table from each forklift, it is assumed that it has a function of identifying the forklift that created the table. This function is, for example, a method of embedding information for identifying the forklift in the operation state table created by each forklift, or a data transmission source address when transmitting data including the operation state table from the forklift to the server apparatus 100. You may make it implement | achieve by the system to utilize.

Although the determination result is stored in the above-described determination result table, the server apparatus 100 displays the determination result on the time axis. That is, the operating state of each forklift is displayed in time series.
Thus, in the operation status management system of the embodiment, the operation state of the forklift 1 is determined every unit time, and the determination result is displayed in time series on the time axis. That is, the flow of the entire work is visualized. Accordingly, the operating status of the forklift 1 can be accurately recognized, and useless work can be specified. This makes it possible to improve the work accurately.

  By the way, the forklift is used in various work forms (for example, there are work in which the moving distance of the load is long and work in which the load is loaded in a narrow area). For this reason, if the threshold values A to D are fixedly determined in the process of the flowchart shown in FIG. Therefore, in the operation status management system of the embodiment, the user may be able to adjust the thresholds A to D. For example, if the threshold A related to loading and traveling is “30 seconds”, the loading and traveling time within each unit time (1 minute in the embodiment) does not exceed 30 seconds, and “loading and traveling” is performed. Is not determined. In this case, it is difficult to determine that the state of the forklift 1 is “loading travel”. On the other hand, if the threshold A related to the loading travel is set to “15 seconds”, it is determined as “loading traveling” if the traveling time with the load loaded within each unit time exceeds 15 seconds. . In this case, the state of the forklift 1 is easily determined as “loading travel”.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart of a modification of the determination process shown in FIG. Steps S21, S22, and S27 are as described with reference to FIG.
In step S31, the maximum value is detected from “loading travel time”, “empty travel time”, “loading stop time”, and “empty stop time” read from the operation state table 27. In step S32, the detected maximum value is compared with a threshold value E prepared in advance. At this time, if the maximum value among the “loading travel time”, “empty travel time”, “loading stop time”, and “empty stop time” is larger than the threshold value E, the state corresponding to the maximum value is the unit time. Is output as the determination result. On the other hand, if the threshold value E is larger, it is determined that there is no corresponding state.

  For example, assume that data from 9:12 to 9:13 is read from the operating state table 27 shown in FIG. Further, it is assumed that the threshold E is “15 seconds”. In this case, the maximum value among “loading travel time = 18 seconds”, “empty travel time = 23 seconds”, “loading stop time = 5 seconds”, and “empty stop time = 14 seconds” is “23 seconds”, Greater than threshold E. Therefore, the state of the forklift 1 in this unit time is determined as “empty travel”.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram of a forklift according to another embodiment. Note that, in FIG. 12 as well, only the configuration directly related to the present invention is depicted as in FIG.
The forklift shown in FIG. 12 includes an operation management device 10 and a travel / load handling controller 30. Here, the operation management apparatus 10 includes the CUP 11, ROM 15, RAM 16, real-time clock IC 17, backup battery 18, and communication interface 19 shown in FIG. On the other hand, the travel / load handling controller 30 is a device that controls the travel and load handling of the forklift 1 mainly in accordance with user instructions, and includes at least one microcomputer. Further, the vehicle speed sensor 2, the load sensor 3, and the cargo handling operation detection sensor 4 shown in FIG. 2 are connected to the travel / load handling controller 30, and the travel and cargo handling of the forklift 1 are performed using the outputs of these sensors. Control.

  In the above configuration, the CPU 11 receives the outputs of the vehicle speed sensor 2, the load sensor 3, and the cargo handling operation detection sensor 4 via the travel / load handling controller 30. That is, in this configuration, various sensors provided for controlling the traveling and cargo handling of the forklift 1 are also used for managing the operating state.

  In the second embodiment, the operation state of the forklift 1 is detected using the outputs of the vehicle speed sensor 2 and the cargo handling operation detection sensor 4, and data related to the operation state of the forklift 1 is generated based on the detection result. The configuration and operation of the system of the second embodiment are basically the same as those of the first embodiment, but the parameters to be detected are different.

  FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating the operation on the forklift side in the second embodiment. Here, the basic operations of steps S41 to S53 of this flowchart are the same as steps S1 to S13 of the flowchart of the first embodiment shown in FIG. Therefore, here, the difference between these two flowcharts will be described.

  In step S33 or S41, based on the output of the cargo handling operation detection sensor 4, it is detected whether or not the forklift 1 is performing a cargo handling operation. Here, the cargo handling operation detection sensor 4 detects whether or not the cargo handling lever 7 is operated by the operator. That is, when the operator of the forklift 1 is carrying out any cargo handling operation, the cargo handling operation detection sensor 4 detects that fact.

  By the way, in the first embodiment, as described above, every time the flowchart shown in FIG. 4 is executed, the state of the forklift 1 is any one of “loading travel”, “empty travel”, “loading stop”, and “empty load stop”. It was detected. On the other hand, in the second embodiment, every time the flowchart shown in FIG. 13 is executed, it is detected which of “loading traveling”, “normal traveling”, “loading operation” and “stop”. For this reason, in the second embodiment, although not particularly shown, a cargo handling travel time counter, a normal travel time counter, a cargo handling operation time counter, a stop time counter, a cargo handling travel distance memory, and a normal travel distance memory are provided. Note that “loading”, “normal driving”, “loading operation”, and “stop” are the states that the vehicle is traveling while performing the cargo handling operation, the state that the vehicle is normally traveling without performing the cargo handling operation, and the It means a state where a cargo handling operation is being performed, and a state where the cargo handling operation is stopped and no cargo handling operation is performed.

  When it is detected that the forklift 1 is traveling and the cargo handling operation is being performed, the cargo handling travel time counter is incremented and the cargo handling travel distance memory is updated. When it is detected that the forklift 1 is traveling and is not in a cargo handling operation, the normal travel time counter is incremented and the normal travel distance memory is updated. On the other hand, when it is detected that the forklift 1 is in a stopped state and is in a cargo handling operation, the cargo handling operation time counter is incremented. When it is detected that the forklift 1 is in a stopped state and is not in a cargo handling operation, the stop time counter is incremented.

By repeatedly executing the processing in the flowchart, an operating state table is created as in the first embodiment. An example of the operating state table in the second embodiment is shown in FIG.
Similarly to the first embodiment, the server apparatus 100 receives the operating state table created as described above, and totals / analyzes data registered in the table. Then, the result is displayed on the display device 107. FIG. 15A is an example in which “loading travel time”, “loading operation time”, “normal travel time”, and “stop time” of a forklift 1 of a certain day are displayed in a graph. FIG. 15B is an example in which the “loading travel distance” and “normal travel distance” of the forklift 1 for a certain day are displayed in a graph.

  FIG. 16 is a flowchart of processing for determining a state every unit time in the second embodiment. Here, the processing of steps S51 to S57 of this flowchart is basically the same as steps S21 to S27 of the flowchart of the first embodiment shown in FIG. However, parameters used for determination and threshold values are different. In addition, instead of the flowchart shown in FIG. 16, the maximum value is detected from “loading travel time”, “loading operation time”, “normal travel time”, and “stop time”, and the state corresponding to the maximum value is used as the determination result. You may make it output (refer FIG. 11).

  FIG. 17 is a display example of the determination result according to the above-described flowchart. As described above, in the second embodiment, the operating state of the forklift 1 (cargo handling, cargo handling operation, normal running, stop, key-off) is determined every unit time, and the determination result is displayed in time series on the time axis. The Therefore, as in the first embodiment, the operating status of the forklift 1 can be accurately recognized, and useless work can be specified. This makes it possible to improve the work accurately.

  In the above-described first and second embodiments, the system for collecting and displaying the data related to the operation status of each forklift is shown. On the other hand, the system of the third embodiment is based on the configurations of the first and second embodiments, and further has a function of collecting and displaying data for each worker who operates or operates the forklift.

  FIG. 18 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the forklift 40 in the third embodiment. The basic configuration and operation of the forklift 40 are the same as those of the forklift 1 shown in the first and second embodiments. However, the forklift 40 includes a personal code input unit 41 for allowing the worker to input a personal code that is information for identifying a worker who operates or operates the forklift.

  The personal code input unit 41 is not particularly limited, and may be a keyboard such as a numeric keypad device or a reading device such as a card reader. In the former case, the worker inputs a personal code (for example, an employee number) for identifying himself / herself using the keyboard when the forklift 40 is activated. In the latter case, it is assumed that a personal code (for example, an employee number) for identifying the worker is written on an ID card or the like of each worker, and the worker activates the forklift 40. Sometimes the reading device reads the personal code written on the ID card or the like.

  The CPU 11 executes the processing of the flowchart shown in FIG. 4 or FIG. 13 as in the first and second embodiments. That is, the CPU 11 detects the operating state and travel distance of the forklift 40 based on the outputs of the sensors 2 to 4 at predetermined intervals, and writes the results in the operating state table in time series. However, in the third embodiment, the CPU 11 writes the personal code of the worker who is operating or operating the forklift together with the above result in the operating state table. The “identification means” in the claims is realized by, for example, the CPU 11 (or a combination of the personal code input unit 41 and the CPU 11).

FIG. 19 is an example of the operating state table 42 in the third embodiment. The operating state table 42 is created on the RAM 16 as in the first and second embodiments.
In FIG. 19, for example, addresses X to X + 17 are reserved for registering data for a period of 9:12 to 9:13 on May 6, 2003. Here, data related to time (“year” “month” “day” “hour” “minute”), data related to travel distance (“loading travel distance” “empty travel distance”), and status of forklifts Data (“loading travel time”, “empty travel time”, “loading stop time”, “empty stop time”) is the same as that of the first embodiment shown in FIG. The third embodiment is different from the operation state tables of the first and second embodiments in that “personal code” is written at addresses X + 6 to X + 9. This “personal code” is a value input from the personal code input unit 41 shown in FIG.

  According to the operation state table 42 in the third embodiment, an operator who has operated or operated the forklift 40 every unit time is specified. In the example shown in FIG. 19, the forklift 40 is used by an operator identified by “personal code = 12345” during the period from 9:12 to 9:13 on May 6, 2003, at 9:36. It is registered that it was used by the worker identified by “personal code = 98765” in the period of minutes to 9:37. That is, with reference to the operation state table 42, the state of the forklift 40 and the operator who has operated or operated the forklift 40 can be recognized every unit time.

Note that when an operator changes within an arbitrary unit time, for example, data is written to the operating state table according to any of the following rules.
1. 1. Write the worker's personal code at the end of the unit time. 2. Write the personal code of the worker who has used the forklift 40 for the longest time in the unit time. When N workers use the forklift 40 within the unit time, N data areas (that is, data areas for each worker) are secured, and each data area has a corresponding personal code, The operation state table 42 created as described above is written to the server device 100. The operation state table 42 is written with data related to time, data related to travel distance, and data related to forklift status. Then, the server apparatus 100 aggregates / analyzes the data registered in the operation state table 42 received from the forklift 40 and displays the result on the display apparatus 107.

  At this time, the server apparatus 100 edits the data for each unit time for each worker by using the personal code written in the operation state table 42 as a search key. Then, the server apparatus 100 creates the operation data shown in FIG. 7A, FIG. 7B, FIG. 15A, and FIG. It is displayed on the display device 107. The processing after the operation state table 42 is edited for each worker is basically the same as in the first and second embodiments.

Further, the server device 100 executes the processing of the flowcharts shown in FIGS. 8, 11, and 16 for each worker, and displays the result on the display device 107.
FIG. 20 is a display example of the result of executing the processing of the flowchart shown in FIG. 8 or 11 for each worker. According to this display, for example, the worker A continuously operates or operates the forklift during the period from 8:10 to 10:30, and is away from the forklift during the period from 10:30 to 11:00. , 11 and the like, it is possible to read the state in which the operation or operation of the forklift is continued again. Furthermore, it is possible to easily read what kind of work each worker has done in what order and how long.

  FIG. 21 is a display example of the result of executing the processing of the flowchart shown in FIG. 8 or 11 for each forklift and for each worker. According to this display, for example, the worker A operates or operates the first car during the period from 8:10 to 9 o'clock, and is away from the forklift during the period from 9 o'clock to 10 o'clock. During the period of 30 minutes, the state of driving or operating the second car can be read. Furthermore, it is possible to easily read what kind of work each worker has done with what forklift in what order and for how long.

As described above, according to the display of the third embodiment, the work status of each worker can be visually recognized. As a result, it is possible to grasp the ability of each worker and to identify the worker who is generating wasteful work. And it becomes possible to give a precise work improvement instruction to each worker.
FIG. 22 is a block diagram of a forklift according to another embodiment of the third embodiment. This forklift is based on the configuration shown in FIG. 12 and further includes a personal code management controller 43.

  The personal code management controller 43 is, for example, a controller that permits key-on or engine start of the forklift according to the personal code, or a controller that changes the performance or operating conditions of the forklift according to the personal code. The personal code management controller 43 is assumed to have a function equivalent to that of the personal code input unit 41 shown in FIG. Then, the personal code management controller 43 transmits the personal code acquired from the worker to the CPU 11 via the communication I / F. The operations of the CPU 11 and the server device 100 are as described above.

  The personal code management controller 43 is not mounted on all forklifts. In other words, the configuration shown in FIG. 22 can be realized in a forklift in which the personal code management controller 43 is mounted or a forklift in which the personal code management controller 43 can be mounted.

  Thus, in the forklift equipped with the personal code management controller 43, since the personal code can be obtained using the controller 43, it is necessary to provide the personal code input unit 41 in order to realize the operation of the third embodiment. There is no. Therefore, the operation of the third embodiment can be realized at a relatively low cost.

In the third embodiment, graphs as shown in FIGS. 7 and 15 may be created and displayed. However, in the third embodiment, data is displayed for each worker. Or you may display so that the data about each worker may be contrasted.
In the first to third embodiments, the vehicle speed sensor 2 is used to detect whether or not the forklift 1 is traveling, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a position sensor such as a GPS sensor may be mounted on the forklift 1 to detect whether the forklift 1 is traveling and the travel distance of the forklift 1 based on the output of the position sensor.

  Furthermore, in the above-described first to third embodiments, a table storing the state of the forklift 1 in time series is created by the forklift 1, and the server apparatus 100 analyzes and displays data registered in the table. However, the present invention is not limited to this form, and the form in which the forklift 1 creates display data by itself without using the server device, or without processing the output of various sensors provided in the forklift 1. A form in which the data is transmitted to the server device as it is is not excluded from the scope of the present invention.

  Further, in the first embodiment, four states are determined based on the outputs of the vehicle speed sensor 2 and the load sensor 3, and in the second embodiment, four states are determined based on the outputs of the vehicle speed sensor 2 and the cargo handling operation detection sensor 4. However, more states may be determined based on the outputs of the vehicle speed sensor 2, the load sensor 3, and the cargo handling operation detection sensor 4. Or you may make it perform a state determination using the output of the other sensor for detecting the state of the forklift 1, or combining the above-mentioned sensors 2-4 and another sensor.

It is an external view of the forklift of an embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of a forklift. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of a server apparatus. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an operation on the forklift side in the first embodiment. It is a figure which shows typically the hardware constitutions used when performing the process of the flowchart shown in FIG. It is an Example of the operation state table in Example 1. FIG. 6 is a display example of operation data in the first embodiment. 6 is a flowchart of processing for determining a state every unit time in the first embodiment. It is an Example of a determination result table. It is a display example of the determination result in Example 1. It is a flowchart of the modification of the determination process shown in FIG. It is a block diagram of the forklift of other embodiments. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an operation on the forklift side in the second embodiment. It is an Example of the operation state table in Example 2. FIG. It is an example of a display of the operation data in Example 2. FIG. 10 is a flowchart of processing for determining a state for each unit time in the second embodiment. It is a display example of the determination result in Example 2. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the forklift truck in Example 3. FIG. 10 is an example of an operating state table in Embodiment 3. It is a display example (the 1) of the determination result in Example 3. It is a display example (the 2) of the determination result in Example 3. It is a block diagram of the forklift of other embodiments in Example 3.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Forklift 2 Vehicle speed sensor 3 Load sensor 4 Handling operation detection sensor 5 Tire 6 Fork 7 Handling lever 8 Key switch 10 Operation management apparatus 11 CPU
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 19 Communication interface 21 Loading traveling time counter 22 Unloading traveling time counter 23 Loading stop time counter 24 Unloading stopping time counter 25 Loading traveling distance memory 26 Unloading traveling distance memory 27 Operating state table 30 Traveling / loading controller 40 Forklift 41 Personal code Input unit 42 Operating state table 43 Personal code management controller 100 Server device 101 CPU
107 Display device

Claims (11)

Detection means for detecting the state of the industrial vehicle;
Determination means for determining whether the state of the industrial vehicle is a loaded traveling state, an unloaded traveling state, a loaded stopped state or an unloaded stopped state based on the output of the detecting unit;
Display means for displaying the determination result by the determination means on the time axis,
The detecting means is
Traveling detection means for detecting whether the industrial vehicle is traveling;
Loading detection means for detecting whether or not the industrial vehicle is loaded with luggage,
The determination means is
First determination means for determining the state of the industrial vehicle based on outputs of the travel detection means and the load detection means at predetermined time intervals;
Second determination means for determining the state of the industrial vehicle based on a determination result by the first determination means for each unit time longer than the predetermined time interval;
The second determination unit is configured to load, travel, empty, load stop time, empty stop time within the unit time based on a plurality of determination results obtained by the first determination unit within the unit time. Calculating a load stop time, comparing the loaded travel time with a first threshold, comparing the unloaded travel time with a second threshold, and comparing the load stop time with a third threshold; The state of the industrial vehicle in the unit time is determined based on the comparison result when the empty stop time is compared with the fourth threshold value.
The second determination means further includes:
When the loading traveling time is greater than the first threshold, it is determined that the industrial vehicle is in a loading traveling state,
When the loaded traveling time is equal to or less than the first threshold and the unloaded traveling time is greater than the second threshold, it is determined that the industrial vehicle is in an unloaded traveling state,
When the loading traveling time and the unloading traveling time are equal to or less than the first and second threshold values, respectively, and the loading stop time is larger than the third threshold value, the industrial vehicle is in a loading stop state. Judging
When the loading traveling time, the unloading traveling time, and the loading stop time are not more than the first, second, and third threshold values, respectively, and when the unloading stopping time is larger than the fourth threshold value, Product
It is determined that the industrial vehicle is in an idle state,
The display means displays the determination result by the second determination means on a time axis. A system for managing the operating status of an industrial vehicle. Detection means for detecting the state of the industrial vehicle;
Determining means for determining whether the state of the industrial vehicle is a cargo handling state, a normal running state, a cargo handling operation state or a stop state based on the output of the detection means;
Display means for displaying the determination result by the determination means on the time axis,
The detecting means is
Traveling detection means for detecting whether the industrial vehicle is traveling;
A cargo handling operation detecting means for detecting whether or not the industrial vehicle is performing a cargo handling operation,
The determination means is
First determination means for determining the state of the industrial vehicle based on outputs of the travel detection means and the cargo handling operation detection means at predetermined time intervals;
Second determination means for determining the state of the industrial vehicle based on a determination result by the first determination means for each unit time longer than the predetermined time interval;
The second determining means is based on a plurality of determination results obtained by the first determining means within the unit time, and the cargo handling travel time, the normal travel time, the cargo handling operation time, and the stop time within the unit time. Are further calculated, the cargo handling travel time is compared with a first threshold, the normal travel time is compared with a second threshold, the cargo handling operation time is compared with a third threshold, and the stop time is calculated. According to the comparison result when compared with the fourth threshold, the state of the industrial vehicle within the unit time is determined,
The second determination means further includes:
When the cargo handling travel time is greater than the first threshold, it is determined that the industrial vehicle is in the cargo handling state,
When the cargo handling travel time is less than or equal to the first threshold and the normal travel time is greater than the second threshold, the industrial vehicle is determined to be in a normal travel state,
When the cargo handling travel time and the normal travel time are less than or equal to the first and second threshold values, respectively, and the cargo handling operation time is greater than the third threshold value, the industrial vehicle is in the cargo handling operation state. Judgment
When the cargo handling travel time, the normal travel time, and the cargo handling operation time are less than the first, second, and third threshold values, respectively, and when the stop time is greater than the fourth threshold value, the industrial vehicle is Judge that it is stopped,
The display means displays the determination result by the second determination means on a time axis. A system for managing the operating status of an industrial vehicle. The system of claim 1, comprising:
The travel detection means, the load detection means, and the first determination means are mounted on the industrial vehicle, and the second determination means and the display means are provided in a server device that can communicate with the industrial vehicle. A system for managing the operating status of industrial vehicles. The system of claim 2, comprising:
The travel detection means, the cargo handling operation detection means, and the first determination means are mounted on the industrial vehicle, and the second determination means and the display means are provided on a server device that can communicate with the industrial vehicle. A system for managing the operating status of industrial vehicles, which is characterized by being provided. A system according to any one of claims 1-4 ,
An identification means for identifying an operator who drives or operates the industrial vehicle;
The determination means determines the state of the industrial vehicle for each worker identified by the identification means,
The system for managing the operating status of an industrial vehicle, wherein the display means displays a determination result by the determination means. 6. The system according to claim 5 , wherein
The display means displays a determination result by the determination means for each worker. A system for managing an operating state of an industrial vehicle. The system of claim 1, comprising:
Mileage detection means for detecting the mileage of the industrial vehicle;
Based on the detection result by the travel distance detection means and the determination result by the first determination means, the distance traveled by the industrial vehicle in a loaded state and the distance traveled by the industrial vehicle in an unloaded state are obtained. The system which manages the operating condition of the industrial vehicle characterized by further including the 3rd determination means to output. The system of claim 2, comprising:
Mileage detection means for detecting the mileage of the industrial vehicle;
Based on the detection result by the travel distance detection means and the determination result by the first determination means, the distance traveled by the industrial vehicle while performing a cargo handling operation and the distance traveled by the industrial vehicle without performing the cargo handling operation are obtained. The system which manages the operating condition of the industrial vehicle characterized by further including the 4th determination means to output. The system according to claim 7 or 8 , comprising:
The travel distance detecting means is
A vehicle speed sensor for detecting the vehicle speed of the industrial vehicle;
Computing means for integrating the output of the vehicle speed sensor to calculate the travel distance of the industrial vehicle;
A system for managing the operating status of an industrial vehicle characterized by comprising: A first detection step for detecting whether the industrial vehicle is running;
A second detection step for detecting whether or not the industrial vehicle is loaded with luggage;
Based on the detection results of the first and second detection steps at a predetermined time interval, the state of the industrial vehicle is any of a loaded traveling state, an unloaded traveling state, a loaded stopped state, or an unloaded stopped state. A first determination step for determining whether or not
For each unit time longer than the time interval of the first determination step, on the basis of a plurality of determination results obtained by the first determination step within the unit time, The load travel time, the loading stop time, and the empty load stop time are calculated, the load travel time is compared with a first threshold value, the empty load travel time is compared with a second threshold value, and the load stop time is calculated. A second determination step of determining a state of the industrial vehicle within the unit time based on a comparison result when the empty stop time is compared with a fourth threshold.
A display step for displaying the determination result of the second determination step on a time axis,
In the second determination step,
When the loading traveling time is greater than the first threshold, it is determined that the industrial vehicle is in a loading traveling state,
When the loaded traveling time is equal to or less than the first threshold and the unloaded traveling time is greater than the second threshold, it is determined that the industrial vehicle is in an unloaded traveling state,
When the loading traveling time and the unloading traveling time are equal to or less than the first and second threshold values, respectively, and the loading stop time is larger than the third threshold value, the industrial vehicle is in a loading stop state. Judging
When the loading traveling time, the unloading traveling time, and the loading stop time are not more than the first, second, and third threshold values, respectively, and when the unloading stopping time is larger than the fourth threshold value, Judge that the industrial vehicle is idle
A method for managing the operating status of an industrial vehicle. The method of claim 10 , comprising:
An identification step for identifying an operator who drives or operates the industrial vehicle,
In the display step, the determination result of the second determination step is displayed for each worker.

Images