JP7843694B2 - Operating device for work vehicles, and work vehicles - Google Patents

Description

This invention relates to an operating device for a work vehicle, and a work vehicle equipped with said operating device.

The work vehicle disclosed in Patent Document 1 is configured to transmit power from an engine mounted on a traveling body to the traveling unit and work unit by shifting the gear ratio in the transmission unit. It includes a work unit operation lever for operating the work unit (loader) and a lever (sub-shift lever) for operating the transmission unit. The work unit operation lever is equipped with a valve operation switch and a mode switching switch.

Japanese Patent Publication No. 2017-91061

However, if we attempt to improve the operability of a work vehicle by equipping the work unit control lever and sub-transmission lever with switches corresponding to the functions of the work vehicle, it would require equipping the lever with numerous switches, which could actually worsen operability or make the lever excessively large. Furthermore, as in the invention described in Patent Document 1, when the work unit and the travel unit are operated by levers, it is necessary to provide separate levers for each, which creates problems such as the need to secure space for the levers and the need to switch hands, potentially worsening operability.

This invention aims to solve the problems of the prior art and to provide an operating device for a work vehicle and a work vehicle that can improve the operability of the functions of the work vehicle.

An operating device for a work vehicle according to one aspect of the present invention comprises an operating lever for operating various functions of the work vehicle, and a selection device for selecting an operating mode of the operating lever, wherein the operating lever is supported so as to be swingable and has one or more operating switches, and the function of the work vehicle that receives operation instructions by swinging is changed according to the operating mode selected by the selection device, and the function of the work vehicle that receives operation instructions by operating the operating switches is changed according to the operating mode selected by the selection device, and the plurality of operating modes are, at least, a first mode for operating work functions among the functions of the work vehicle. The functions of the work vehicle include, at least, a second mode for operating the driving function and a third mode for operating the driving function and the work function, wherein the operation lever receives an operation instruction for the work function by the swinging operation in the first mode, receives an operation instruction for the driving function by the swinging operation in the second mode, receives an operation instruction for the driving function by the swinging operation in the third mode, and receives an operation instruction by the operation of the operation switch in the third mode, and the functions of the work vehicle receive an operation instruction by the operation of the operation switch in the second mode .

The multiple operating modes include a fourth mode, in which the operating lever may not accept operating instructions for the functions of the work vehicle by the swinging operation, but may accept operating instructions for the functions of the work vehicle by the operation of the operating switch.

The operating device for the work vehicle may include a display unit that changes its display format according to the operating mode selected by the operation of the selection tool.

The display unit may be provided on the operating lever.

The display unit may be a lamp that changes color according to the operation mode selected by the operation of the selection tool.

The aforementioned selection device may be a physical switch.

The selection tool may be a display image that is displayed on a screen and accepts user input.

The work vehicle comprises a vehicle body, a driver's seat provided on the vehicle body, and operating devices provided around the driver's seat.

The above-described operating device for the work vehicle and the work vehicle itself can improve the operability of the functions provided by the work vehicle.

This is a side view of a work vehicle equipped with a front loader. This is a diagram illustrating the system of a work vehicle. This is a perspective view of the connecting section. This figure shows a display device installed within the meter panel. This is a plan view showing the arrangement of armrests and other features around the driver's seat. This is a plan view of the armrest. This is a perspective view of the area around the gripping part of the operating lever, seen from the upper left rear. This is a perspective view of the first and second dials, seen from the upper left rear. This is a plan view of multiple operating devices. This figure shows an example of a standard table. This figure shows an example of an extended table. This is a perspective view of the area around the gripping part of the operating lever, seen from the upper right front. In the modified example, this is a perspective view of the area near the gripping part of the operating lever, viewed from the upper right front. This figure shows an example of an operation display screen and an information display screen. This figure shows an example of the first change screen. This figure shows an example of an operation table. This figure shows an example of the second change screen. This figure shows an example of the third change screen and information display screen. This figure shows an example of the fourth change screen and information display screen. This figure shows an example of the fifth change screen. This is a diagram showing the control lever in a modified example, as seen from the driver's seat. This diagram illustrates the system of a work vehicle in a modified example.

The embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

Figure 1 is a side view of the work vehicle 1. Work vehicle 1 is a vehicle used for agricultural work, and in this embodiment, it is a tractor. The following explanation assumes that work vehicle 1 is a tractor. However, work vehicle 1 is not limited to a tractor; it may be agricultural machinery (agricultural vehicle) such as a combine harvester or transplanter, or construction machinery (construction vehicle) such as a loader.

In the following explanation, the direction the worker seated in the driver's seat 4 of the work vehicle 1 is facing (direction of arrow A1 in Figures 1, 3, etc.) is referred to as the front, and the opposite direction (direction of arrow A2 in Figures 1, 3, etc.) is referred to as the rear. Furthermore, the left side of the worker (the front side in Figure 1, direction of arrow B1 in Figure 2, etc.) is referred to as the left, and the right side of the worker (the back side in Figure 1, direction of arrow B2 in Figure 3, etc.) is referred to as the right. The horizontal direction, which is perpendicular to the front-rear direction, is referred to as the vehicle width direction (see Figures 3, 4, etc.).

As shown in Figure 1, the work vehicle 1 comprises a vehicle body 2, a transmission 20, and a coupling section 30.

The vehicle body 2 is equipped with a running gear 3 and is capable of movement. The vehicle body 2 also includes a driver's seat 4 and a cabin 5 surrounding the driver's seat 4. The running gear 3 has front wheels 3F and rear wheels 3R. The front wheels 3F may be either tire-type or crawler-type. Similarly, the rear wheels 3R may also be either tire-type or crawler-type.

The vehicle body 2 is equipped with a prime mover 6. The prime mover 6 is a diesel engine, an electric motor, etc., and in this embodiment, it is composed of a diesel engine.

The transmission 20 can switch the propulsion force of the running gear 3 by changing the gear ratio, and can also switch the running gear 3 between forward and reverse. Figure 2 is a diagram illustrating the system of the work vehicle 1. As shown in Figure 2, the transmission 20 comprises a main shaft (drive shaft) 20a, a main transmission unit 20b, a sub-transmission unit 20c, a shuttle unit 20d, a PTO power transmission unit 20e, and a front transmission unit 20f. Power from the crankshaft of the prime mover 6 is transmitted to the drive shaft 20a. The main transmission unit 20b has multiple gears and a shifter that changes the connection between these gears, and changes the rotation input from the drive shaft 20a to output (changes the gear ratio).

The sub-transmission unit 20c, like the main transmission unit 20b, has multiple gears and a shifter that changes the connections between these gears, and modifies the rotation input from the main transmission unit 20b to output (changes the gear).

The shuttle unit 20d can switch the rotational direction of the power output from the sub-transmission unit 20c, i.e., switch the running gear 3 between forward and reverse, by switching the power transmission via a hydraulic clutch. The shuttle unit 20d is connected to the rear wheel differential unit 21R, which rotatably supports the rear wheels 3R. The hydraulic clutch of the shuttle unit 20d can be switched to the neutral position to interrupt power transmission.

The PTO power transmission unit 20e switches between a state where power from the drive shaft 20a is transmitted to the PTO shaft 22 and a state where power from the drive shaft 20a is not transmitted to the PTO shaft 22 by engaging and disengaging the hydraulic clutch.

The front transmission unit 20f has a first clutch 20f1 and a second clutch 20f2, which are hydraulic clutches, and is capable of transmitting power from the drive shaft 20a. For example, power from the shuttle unit 20d is transmitted via gears and a transmission shaft. Power from the first clutch 20f1 and the second clutch 20f2 is transmitted to the front wheel differential device 21F, which rotatably supports the front wheel 3F.

When the first clutch 20f1 is disengaged and the second clutch 20f2 is engaged, power from the shuttle unit 20d is transmitted to the front wheel 3F via the second clutch 20f2. This results in a four-wheel drive (4WD) system where both the front wheel 3F and the rear wheel 3R are powered, and the rotational speeds of the front wheel 3F and the rear wheel 3R are approximately the same (4WD constant speed state).

On the other hand, when the first clutch 20f1 is engaged and the second clutch 20f2 is disengaged, power from the shuttle unit 20d is transmitted to the front wheel 3F via the first clutch 20f1. At this time, four-wheel drive is achieved, and the rotational speed of the front wheel 3F becomes faster than that of the rear wheel 3R (4WD increased speed state).

Furthermore, when the first clutch 20f1 and the second clutch 20f2 are disengaged, the power from the shuttle unit 20d is not transmitted to the front wheel 3F, resulting in a two-wheel drive (2WD) system where the rear wheel 3R is driven by the power.

Furthermore, each hydraulic clutch in the transmission 20 is connected to an oil passage, and these oil passages are connected to a control valve (not shown) that receives hydraulic fluid discharged from a hydraulic pump (not shown). The hydraulic pump discharges hydraulic fluid using the driving force generated by the prime mover 6. The control valve is, for example, a two-position switching valve with a solenoid valve, and switches between connected and disconnected states by energizing or demagnetizing the solenoid of the solenoid valve in response to a control signal output from the control device 80 (described later).

Furthermore, while the transmission 20 described above employs a gear system that changes speed by altering the connections of multiple gears, a belt-type continuously variable transmission (CVT) or the like may also be used as the transmission 20, and its configuration is not limited to a gear system.

Furthermore, the front of the vehicle body 2 is equipped with a suspension mechanism 23 that cushions shocks and vibrations from fields, roads, etc., and also adjusts the height and tilt of the front of the work vehicle 1. The suspension mechanism 23, together with the front axle case (not shown) housing the front differential device 21F and the vehicle body 2, constitutes the suspension system. The suspension mechanism 23 has a pair of suspension cylinders 23a provided in the width direction of the vehicle body.

The pair of suspension cylinders 23a are extendable and retractable by supplying hydraulic fluid. Specifically, by simultaneously extending the pair of suspension cylinders 23a, the front axle case can be moved downward, thereby relatively raising the front of the vehicle body 2. Conversely, by simultaneously retracting the pair of suspension cylinders 23a, the front axle case can be moved upward, thereby relatively lowering the front of the vehicle body 2.

The suspension cylinder 23a is connected to a hydraulic pump via a control valve (not shown). The control valve is, for example, a two-position switching valve with a solenoid valve. The suspension cylinder 23a is extended or retracted by energizing or demagnetizing the solenoid of the solenoid valve based on a control signal output from the control device 80 (described later).

The connecting section 30 is located at the rear of the vehicle body 2. The connecting section 30 is for connecting a working device (ground work machine) 10, which performs work on fields (farmland), etc., to the rear of the work vehicle 1. The working device 10 is driven, for example, by a driving force transmitted from the PTO shaft 22. The working device 10 may also have a hydraulic attachment 10a, and this hydraulic attachment 10a may be driven by hydraulic fluid. Specifically, the working device 10 may be a tiller, a spreader, a seed planter, etc., but is not limited to these.

Figure 3 is a perspective view of the connecting section 30. The connecting section 30 is a lifting device 30 (hereinafter also referred to as "lifting device 30") that is driven by an actuator such as a hydraulic cylinder to raise or lower the work device 10. In this embodiment, the lifting device 30 is a three-point linkage mechanism.

As shown in Figure 3, the lifting device 30 includes a lift arm 30a, a lower link 30b, a top link 30c, a lift rod 30d, and a lift cylinder 30e. The front end of the lift arm 30a is supported on the rear upper part of the transmission 20 so as to be able to swing upward or downward. The lift arm 30a swings (rises and falls) by the drive of the lift cylinder 30e. The lift cylinder 30e is composed of a hydraulic cylinder. The lift cylinder 30e is connected to a hydraulic pump via a control valve (not shown). The control valve is, for example, a two-position switching valve with a solenoid valve, and the lift cylinder 30e is extended or retracted by energizing or demagnetizing the solenoid of the solenoid valve in response to a control signal output from the control device 80 (described later).

The front end of the lower link 30b is supported at the rear lower part of the transmission 20 so as to be able to swing upward or downward. The front end of the top link 30c is supported at the rear of the transmission 20, above the lower link 30b, so as to be able to swing upward or downward. The lift rod 30d connects the lift arm 30a and the lower link 30b. The working device 10 is connected to the rear of the lower link 30b and the rear of the top link 30c.

When the lift cylinder 30e is driven (extends and retracts), the lift arm 30a moves up and down, and the lower link 30b, which is connected to the lift arm 30a via the lift rod 30d, also moves up and down. As a result, the work device 10 swings (moves up and down) upward or downward, using the front of the lower link 30b as a pivot point.

Furthermore, a horizontal control device (Monroe) 31 for maintaining the working device 10 in a horizontal position may be provided at the rear of the vehicle body 2. The horizontal control device 31 is a device for changing the posture of the working device 10 mounted on the vehicle body 2. The horizontal control device 31 has a changing cylinder 31a, which connects the lift arm 30a and the lower link 30b in place of one of a pair of lift rods 30d. The changing cylinder 31a is composed of a hydraulic cylinder. The changing cylinder 31a is connected to a hydraulic pump via a control valve (not shown). The control valve is a solenoid valve or the like, which extends and retracts the changing cylinder 31a. The control valve is, for example, a two-position switching valve with a solenoid valve, which extends and retracts the lift cylinder 30e by exciting or demagnetizing the solenoid of the solenoid valve in response to a control signal output from the control device 80 (described later).

As shown in Figure 2, the work vehicle 1 has multiple auxiliary valves 32. These auxiliary valves 32 are two-position switching valves with solenoid valves connected to a hydraulic pump. Each auxiliary valve 32 has an output port, and hydraulic hoses can be connected to any of these output ports. A hydraulic hose connected to any of the output ports of the auxiliary valves 32 is connected to the hydraulic attachments 10a of the work device 10. The auxiliary valves 32 activate the various hydraulic attachments 10a mounted on the work device 10 by energizing or demagnetizing the solenoids of the solenoid valves in response to control signals output from the control device 80 (described later).

In this embodiment, the auxiliary valves 32 are located above the lifting device 30 on the vehicle body 2. Furthermore, in this embodiment, there are four auxiliary valves 32. Hereinafter, the auxiliary valves 32 provided by the work vehicle 1 may be referred to as the first auxiliary valve 32a, the second auxiliary valve 32b, the third auxiliary valve 32c, and the fourth auxiliary valve 32d, respectively.

As shown in Figure 1, a front loader 35 is attached to the front of the vehicle body 2. The front loader 35 includes a mounting frame 35a, a boom 35b, a work tool (bucket) 35c, a boom cylinder 35d, and a bucket cylinder 35e. Note that the front loader 35 is not limited to this embodiment, as long as it includes a boom 35b and a work tool 35c. Furthermore, the work tool 35c is not limited to a bucket; it may be other types of work tools such as a pallet fork, sweeper, mower, or snowblower.

As shown in Figure 1, the mounting frame 35a is detachably attached to the left and right sides of the vehicle body 2. The front loader 35 is mounted to the vehicle body 2 via the mounting frame 35a.

The boom 35b is mounted on the vehicle body 2 so as to be able to swing up and down. The boom 35b is connected and supported so as to be able to swing around a pivot 36 provided on the mounting frame 35a.

The bucket 35c is attached to the front of the boom 35b. The bucket 35c is primarily used for scooping up soil and other materials from the work area in front of the vehicle body 2, and is connected and supported by a connecting bracket 35c1 located at the rear of the bucket 35c, allowing it to swing around a pivot 37 located at the front end of the boom 35b.

The boom cylinder 35d and bucket cylinder 35e are each connected to a hydraulic pump via control valves (not shown). The control valves are, for example, two-position switching valves with solenoid valves. Control signals output from the control device 80 (described later) energize or demagnetize the solenoid of the solenoid valve, thereby extending or retracting the boom cylinder 35d and bucket cylinder 35e, respectively.

The boom cylinders 35d are mounted on the underside of the boom 35b and connect the mounting frame 35a and the boom 35b. One end of the boom cylinder 35d is pivotally supported on the mounting frame 35a. The other end of the boom cylinder 35d is pivotally supported on the midpoint of the boom 35b in the front-rear direction.

The boom cylinder 35d is composed of a hydraulic cylinder. When extended, it causes the boom 35b to swing upward around the pivot 36, and when retracted, it causes the boom 35b to swing downward around the pivot 36.

The bucket cylinders 35e are mounted on the upper surface of the boom 35b, connecting the bucket 35c and the boom 35b. One end of the bucket cylinder 35e is rotatably pivoted to the connecting bracket 35c1 at the rear of the bucket 35c. The other end of the bucket cylinder 35e is rotatably pivoted to the middle of the boom 35b in the front-rear direction.

The bucket cylinder 35e is composed of a hydraulic cylinder. By extending, it causes the bucket 35c to swing downwards around the pivot 37 (dumping action), and by retracting, it causes the bucket 35c to swing upwards around the pivot 37 (scooping action).

Note that while Figure 1 shows the front loader 35 attached to the front of the vehicle body 2, depending on the functions of the work vehicle 1, the front loader 35 may not be attached to the work vehicle 1.

As shown in Figure 1, a steering wheel 11 is provided in front of the driver's seat 4. The steering wheel 11 is rotatably supported by a steering shaft. The steering wheel 11 is located on top of the control platform 12, which is situated inside the cabin 5.

As shown in Figure 2, the work vehicle 1 is equipped with an operating device 40, a detection device 70, a control device 80, and a display device 90. In the following description, the configuration including the operating device 40, the control device 80, and the display device 90 (in this embodiment, the configuration including the storage device 81 described later) may be referred to as the support device 100 of the work vehicle 1. Furthermore, the work vehicle 1 is equipped with an in-vehicle network N, such as CAN, LIN, or FlexRay. The equipment mounted on the work vehicle 1, including the operating device 40, the detection device 70, the control device 80, and the display device 90, is electrically connected via the in-vehicle network N.

The control device 40 is located around the driver's seat 4 and is a device for operating various functions of the work vehicle 1. For example, the control device 40 is used to operate various functions of the work vehicle 1, such as the driving function and the work function. The control device 40 receives operation instructions when operated and outputs operation signals based on those instructions.

The detection device 70 is a device that detects the state of the work vehicle 1 and outputs it as a detection signal. The detection device 70 includes, for example, a prime mover rotation sensor (rotation sensor) 70a, an accelerator pedal sensor 70b, a brake pedal sensor 70c, a steering angle sensor 70d, a first angle sensor 70e, a second angle sensor 70f, a third angle sensor 70g, and a vehicle speed sensor 70h, etc.

The engine rotation sensor 70a detects the rotational speed of the engine 6, the accelerator pedal sensor 70b detects the amount of accelerator pedal movement, the brake pedal sensor 70c detects brake pedal movement, and the steering angle sensor 70d detects the steering angle of the steering wheel 11. The first angle sensor 70e detects the angle of the lift arm 30a, the second angle sensor 70f detects the angle of the boom 35b, the third angle sensor 70g detects the angle of the bucket 35c, and the vehicle speed sensor 70h detects the vehicle speed.

The detection device 70 described above is merely an example and is not limited to the sensors described above. Additional sensors may be added, removed, or modified as appropriate depending on the function of the work vehicle 1.

The control device 80 is a device composed of electrical and electronic circuits, a CPU, and programs stored in memory, and controls various devices connected to the in-vehicle network N of the work vehicle 1. Furthermore, a storage device 81, such as an SSD (Solid State Drive) or HDD (Hard Disk Drive), is connected to the control device 80, and the control device 80 executes predetermined controls based on the programs stored in the storage device 81.

More specifically, the control device 80 controls the driving and work functions of the work vehicle 1 based on operation signals output from the operating device 40 and detection signals from the detection device 70. For example, the control device 80 performs control related to the shifting (increasing or changing speed) of the transmission 20 based on operation signals output from the operating device 40, control related to the raising and lowering of the lifting device 30 based on operation signals output from the operating device 40, control related to the operation of the front loader 35, and control of the rotational speed of the prime mover 6 based on detection signals from the accelerator pedal sensor 70b.

The display device 90 is a device capable of displaying various information. The display device 90 has either a liquid crystal panel, a touch panel, or another type of panel. For example, the display device 90 is a first display device (monitor) 90A located in the meter panel 15, which is located in front of the driver's seat 4. Figure 4 shows the first display device 90A located in the meter panel 15. The meter panel 15 is located on the upper part of the column cover of the driver's stand 12, in front of the steering wheel 11. The meter panel 15 is equipped with an engine tachometer 15a that displays the rotational speed of the prime mover 6, a water temperature gauge 15b, a fuel gauge 15c, and the first display device 90A. In the illustrated example, the engine tachometer 15a is located to the left of the first display device 90A, and the water temperature gauge 15b and fuel gauge 15c are located to the right of the first display device 90A, but this arrangement may be changed. The first display device 90A is connected to the control device 80, etc., via the in-vehicle network N. The first display device 90A can acquire various information from devices such as the control device 80 and detection device 70 connected to the in-vehicle network N, and display that information.

Furthermore, the display device 90 only needs to be able to display information and is not limited to the first display device 90A provided in the meter panel 15 as described above. In other words, the display device 90 may be a second display device (terminal display device) 90B provided around the worker riding in the work vehicle 1, or it may be a portable terminal carried by the worker operating the work vehicle 1. The portable terminal may consist of a PC or a smartphone (multifunctional mobile phone) with relatively high processing power. In such a case, the portable terminal has a device that performs either direct or indirect communication with the in-vehicle network N, and can acquire various information from devices connected to the in-vehicle network N via this device and display that information.

The control device 80 can control (execute) multiple functions related to the work vehicle 1. Based on the operation signals output from the operating device 40 and/or the detection signals output from the detection device 70, the control device 80 controls the equipment on the work vehicle 1 and executes various types of functions. These multiple functions related to the work vehicle 1 can be classified into related categories according to predetermined conditions. In this embodiment, the multiple functions can be classified into categories 1 to 9. The control programs and control parameters necessary for executing these multiple functions are stored in the storage device 81.

The first category is a classification related to the switching of gears in the transmission 20. The first category includes functions that control the transmission 20. The control device 80 can control the first to eighth functions, which are driving functions, as functions classified under the first category. The first function changes the gear of the transmission 20 by controlling the shifter of the main transmission unit 20b and/or the shifter of the sub-transmission unit 20c based on the vehicle speed detected by the vehicle speed sensor 70h and a predefined control map.

The second function is to change the control target of the first function (the shifter of the main transmission unit 20b and/or the shifter of the sub-transmission unit 20c) and the control map referenced. As the second function, the control device 80, for example, changes the control target of the first function and switches between a mode in which the first function controls the shifter of the main transmission unit 20b and the shifter of the sub-transmission unit 20c, and a mode in which the first function controls the shifter of the main transmission unit 20b. Furthermore, the storage device 81 stores multiple control maps, and as the second function, the control device 80 appropriately selects the control map referenced in the first function.

The third function is to change the control map of the first function based on the operator's actions. As the third function, the control device 80 changes the control map of the first function based on the operation signal output from the operating device 40, and modifies the vehicle speed conditions for changing the gear ratio of the transmission 20.

The fourth function is to control the shifter of the main transmission unit 20b and/or the shifter of the auxiliary transmission unit 20c based on the operator's input, thereby increasing the gear ratio of the transmission 20. As the fourth function, the control device 80 controls the shifter of the main transmission unit 20b and/or the shifter of the auxiliary transmission unit 20c based on the operation signal output from the operating device 40, thereby increasing the gear ratio.

The fifth function is to control the shifter of the main transmission unit 20b and/or the shifter of the auxiliary transmission unit 20c based on the operator's operation, thereby lowering the gear of the transmission 20. As the fifth function, the control device 80 controls the shifter of the main transmission unit 20b and/or the shifter of the auxiliary transmission unit 20c based on the operation signal output from the operating device 40, thereby lowering the gear.

The sixth function is to change the speed at which the rotational direction of the power output from the sub-transmission unit 20c is switched based on the operator's operation. As the sixth function, the control device 80 changes the switching speed of the hydraulic clutch of the shuttle unit 20d based on the operation signal output from the operating device 40; in other words, it changes the sensitivity of the forward and reverse switching of the travel device 3.

The seventh function is to switch the hydraulic clutch of the shuttle unit 20d to the neutral position and cut off the transmission of power to the running gear 3 when the brake pedal is operated and the vehicle speed falls below a predetermined level. The control device 80 determines whether the brake pedal has been operated and the vehicle speed has fallen below a predetermined level based on the brake pedal operation detected by the brake pedal sensor 70c and the vehicle speed detected by the vehicle speed sensor 70h, and controls the seventh function accordingly.

The eighth function is to change the control of the transmission 20 based on the load of the prime mover 6. As the eighth function, the control device 80 detects the load of the prime mover 6 based on the rotational speed of the prime mover 6 detected by the prime mover rotation sensor 70a, and when the load is large, it increases the switching speed of the hydraulic clutch of the shuttle unit 20d compared to when the load is small.

Furthermore, while the functions related to the transmission 20 were described as belonging to Category 1, the functions adopted in the work vehicle 1 may be added, deleted, or changed depending on the type of transmission 20, etc. For example, if the transmission 20 is a continuously variable transmission, the functions classified as Category 1 may include a function in the control device 80 to control the vehicle speed to a constant level (cruise control), a function to change the vehicle speed of the cruise control, and a function to switch to a mode that limits the vehicle speed (driving mode). In such a case, the function to change the vehicle speed within the cruise control function may also be adopted.

The second category is a classification related to the power transmitted to the main transmission unit 20b of the transmission 20. The second category includes functions that control the prime mover 6 and/or the shuttle unit 20d. The control device 80 can control functions 9 through 16, which are driving functions, as functions classified under the second category. Function 9 is a function that controls the rotational speed of the prime mover 6 to a predetermined first prime mover rotational speed, regardless of the operation of the accelerator pedal. The value of the first prime mover rotational speed is stored in the storage device 81.

The tenth function is to change the first prime mover speed based on the operator's input. As the tenth function, the control device 80 changes the value of the first prime mover speed stored in the storage device 81 based on the operation signal output from the operating device 40.

The eleventh function controls the rotational speed of the prime mover 6 to a predefined second prime mover rotational speed, independently of the accelerator pedal operation. The value of the second prime mover rotational speed is different from the first prime mover rotational speed and is pre-stored in the memory device 81.

The twelfth function is to change the second prime mover speed based on the operator's input. As the twelfth function, the control device 80 changes the value of the second prime mover speed stored in the storage device 81 based on the operation signal output from the operating device 40.

The 13th function is to control the rotational speed of the prime mover 6 based on the vehicle speed and the load on the prime mover 6. As the 13th function, the control device 80 increases the rotational speed of the prime mover 6 based on the vehicle speed detected by the vehicle speed sensor 70h and the load on the prime mover 6 based on the rotational speed detected by the prime mover rotation sensor 70a, when the vehicle speed is constant and the load on the prime mover 6 is above a predetermined level.

The 14th function is to control the shuttle unit 20d based on the operator's operation and to interrupt the power transmitted from the shuttle unit 20d. As the 14th function, the control device 80 switches the hydraulic clutch of the shuttle unit 20d to the neutral position based on the operation signal output from the operating device 40.

The 15th function is to control the shuttle unit 20d based on the operator's input, switching the rotation direction of the power output from the sub-transmission unit 20c to forward. As the 15th function, the control device 80 controls the hydraulic clutch of the shuttle unit 20d based on the operation signal output from the operating device 40, switching the rotation direction of the power output from the sub-transmission unit 20c to forward.

The 16th function is to control the shuttle unit 20d based on the operator's input, switching the rotation direction of the power output from the sub-transmission unit 20c to reverse. As the 16th function, the control device 80 controls the hydraulic clutch of the shuttle unit 20d based on the operation signal output from the operating device 40, switching the rotation direction of the power output from the sub-transmission unit 20c to reverse.

Furthermore, while the functions related to power transmitted to the main transmission unit 20b of the transmission 20 were described as functions classified under Category 2, the functions described above are merely examples. Functions such as changing the upper limit of the rotational speed of the prime mover 6 controlled by the control device 80 may also be adopted as functions classified under Category 2.

The third category is a classification related to the drivability of the work vehicle 1. The third category includes functions that control at least one of the following: the front transmission unit 20f, the rear differential device 21R, and the suspension mechanism 23. The control device 80 can control functions 17 through 23, which are driving functions, as they fall under the third category. Function 17 is a function that controls the front transmission unit 20f based on the operator's input to switch to a 4WD constant speed state. As function 17, the control device 80 switches the first clutch 20f1 to the disengaged state and the second clutch 20f2 to the engaged state (4WD constant speed state) based on the operation signal output from the operating device 40.

The 18th function controls the front transmission unit 20f based on the vehicle speed and the steering angle of the steering device to switch between 2WD and a constant-speed 4WD state. As the 18th function, the control device 80, based on the vehicle speed detected by the vehicle speed sensor 70h and the steering angle detected by the steering angle sensor 70d, switches the first clutch 20f1 to the disengaged state and the second clutch 20f2 to the engaged state (constant-speed 4WD state) when the vehicle speed is below a predetermined level and the steering angle is below a predetermined level. On the other hand, as the 14th function, the control device 80 switches the first clutch 20f1 and the second clutch 20f2 of the front transmission unit 20f to the disengaged state (2WD) when the vehicle speed is above a predetermined level or the steering angle is above a predetermined level.

The 19th function controls the front gear shift unit 20f based on the operator's input to switch to the 4WD speed-increasing state. As the 19th function, the control device 80 switches the first clutch 20f1 to the engaged state and the second clutch 20f2 to the disengaged state (4WD speed-increasing state) based on the operation signal output from the operating device 40.

The 20th function is to lock (directly connect) the rear wheel differential device 21R based on the operator's input. As the 20th function, the control device 80 controls the rear wheel differential device 21R based on the operation signal output from the operating device 40 to perform differential locking.

The 21st function is to retract the suspension cylinder 23a based on operator input, thereby relatively lowering the front of the vehicle body 2. As the 21st function, the control device 80 controls the control valve based on the operation signal output from the operating device 40, retracting the suspension cylinder 23a and lowering the front of the vehicle body 2. Furthermore, in the 21st function, if the vehicle speed detected by the vehicle speed sensor 70h is above a predetermined level, the control device 80 controls the control valve to return the suspension cylinder 23a to a predetermined initial length, thereby returning the height of the front of the vehicle body 2 to a predetermined initial position.

The 22nd function is to extend the suspension cylinder 23a based on operator input, thereby relatively raising the front of the vehicle body 2. As the 22nd function, the control device 80 controls the control valve based on the operation signal output from the operating device 40, extending the suspension cylinder 23a and raising the front of the vehicle body 2. Furthermore, in the 22nd function, if the vehicle speed detected by the vehicle speed sensor 70h is above a predetermined level, the control device 80 controls the control valve to return the suspension cylinder 23a to a predetermined initial length, thereby returning the height of the front of the vehicle body 2 to a predetermined initial position.

The 23rd function is to fully retract the suspension cylinder 23a when the vehicle speed is below a predetermined level. When the vehicle speed detected by the vehicle speed sensor 70h is below the predetermined level, the control device 80 controls the control valve as the 23rd function, retracting the suspension to its stroke end and lowering the front of the vehicle body 2. Conversely, when the vehicle speed detected by the vehicle speed sensor 70h is above the predetermined level, the control device 80 controls the control valve as the 23rd function, returning the suspension cylinder 23a to a predetermined initial length, thereby returning the height of the front of the vehicle body 2 to a predetermined initial position.

Furthermore, while the functions related to the drivability of the work vehicle 1 were described as functions classified under Category 3, the functions described above are merely examples. Other functions classified under Category 3 may include an automatic differential lock function, a function to control vehicle speed according to the slip ratio, and a function to change the control map of the said function (a slip sensitivity changing function).

The fourth category is a classification related to the rotation of the PTO shaft 22. The fourth category includes functions that control the PTO power transmission unit 20e. The control device 80 can control the 24th function, which is a work function, as a function classified in the fourth category. The 24th function is a function that controls the PTO power transmission unit 20e according to the height of the work device 10 and switches the power transmission to the PTO shaft 22. As the 24th function, the control device 80 calculates the height of the work device 10 from the detection signal detected by the first angle sensor 70e, and if the height of the work device 10 is less than a predetermined value, controls the hydraulic clutch of the PTO power transmission unit 20e and switches to a state in which power from the drive shaft 20a is transmitted to the PTO shaft 22. On the other hand, as a 24th function, the control device 80 calculates the height of the work device 10 from the detection signal detected by the first angle sensor 70e. If the height of the work device 10 is above a predetermined level, it controls the hydraulic clutch of the PTO power transmission unit 20e to switch the power of the drive shaft 20a to a state where it is not transmitted to the PTO shaft 22.

Furthermore, while the functions related to the rotation of the PTO shaft 22 were described as functions classified under Category 4, the above-described functions are merely examples. Other functions classified under Category 4 may include those in which the control device 80 controls the PTO power transmission unit 20e in response to operator operation to switch the power transmission to the PTO shaft 22.

Category 5 is a classification related to the lifting device 30. Category 5 includes functions for controlling the lift cylinder 30e and/or the change cylinder 31a. The control device 80 can control functions 25 through 31, which are work functions, as classified under Category 5. Function 25 is the function of extending the lift cylinder 30e based on the operator's operation to raise the work device 10 connected to the lifting device 30. As function 25, the control device 80 controls the control valve based on the operation signal output from the operating device 40, extending the lift cylinder 30e and raising the work device 10.

The 26th function is to retract the lift cylinder 30e based on the operator's input, thereby lowering the work device 10 connected to the lifting device 30. The control device 80, as the 26th function, controls the control valve based on the operation signal output from the operating device 40, retracting the lift cylinder 30e and lowering the work device 10.

The 27th function is to change the upper limit of the height of the work device 10 connected to the lifting device 30 based on the operator's operation. As the 27th function, the control device 80 changes the upper limit of the height of the work device 10 stored in the storage device 81 based on the operation signal output from the operating device 40. The control device 80 calculates the height of the work device 10 from the detection signal detected by the first angle sensor 70e and limits the detected height of the work device 10 so as not to exceed the upper limit of the height of the work device 10 stored in the storage device 81.

The 28th function is to change the lower limit of the height of the work device 10 connected to the lifting device 30 based on the operator's operation. As the 28th function, the control device 80 changes the lower limit of the height of the work device 10 stored in the storage device 81 based on the operation signal output from the operating device 40. The control device 80 calculates the height of the work device 10 from the detection signal detected by the first angle sensor 70e and limits the detected height of the work device 10 so that it does not fall below the lower limit of the height of the work device 10 stored in the storage device 81.

The 29th function is to retract the change cylinder 31a based on the operator's input, thereby changing the posture of the work device 10 connected to the lifting device 30. As the 29th function, the control device 80 controls the control valve based on the operation signal output from the operating device 40, retracting the change cylinder 31a to raise the other side (right side) of the work device 10 in the width direction and lower the one side (left side) of the work device 10 in the width direction.

The 30th function is to extend the change cylinder 31a based on the operator's operation to change the posture of the work device 10 connected to the lifting device 30. As the 30th function, the control device 80 controls the control valve based on the operation signal output from the operating device 40, extending the change cylinder 31a to lower the other side (right side) of the work device 10 in the width direction and raise one side (left side) of the work device 10 in the width direction.

The 31st function is to return the change cylinder 31a to a predetermined initial length based on the operator's operation, and to return the posture of the work device 10 connected to the lifting device 30 to a predetermined initial state. As the 31st function, the control device 80 controls the control valve based on the operation signal output from the operating device 40, returning the change cylinder 31a to the predetermined initial length and making the posture of the work device 10 parallel to the vehicle body 2.

Furthermore, while the functions related to the lifting device 30 were described as belonging to Category 5, the functions described above are merely examples. Other functions that may be classified under Category 5 include the control device 80 controlling the change cylinder 31a to change the angle of the working device 10 relative to the vehicle body 2, the control device 80 controlling the control valve to change the speed at which the lift cylinder 30e retracts, i.e., the speed at which the working device 10 descends, and functions to limit (lock) the drive and natural fall of the lifting device 30.

Category 6 is a classification relating to the work device 10 having a hydraulic attachment 10a. Category 6 also classifies the functions that control the work device 10. The control device 80 can control functions 32 and 33, which are work functions, as functions classified under Category 6. Function 32 is the function of adjusting the flow rate of hydraulic fluid supplied to the hydraulic attachment 10a based on the operator's operation. As function 32, the control device 80 controls a predetermined auxiliary valve 32 (one of the first auxiliary valve 32a, second auxiliary valve 32b, third auxiliary valve 32c, and fourth auxiliary valve 32d) from among the multiple auxiliary valves 32, based on the operation signal output from the operating device 40, thereby increasing the flow rate of hydraulic fluid supplied to the hydraulic attachment 10a and increasing the flow velocity of the hydraulic fluid.

The 33rd function is to adjust the flow rate of hydraulic fluid supplied to the hydraulic attachment 10a based on the operator's operation. As the 33rd function, the control device 80 controls one of the auxiliary valves 32 (the first auxiliary valve 32a, the second auxiliary valve 32b, the third auxiliary valve 32c, and the fourth auxiliary valve 32d) based on the operation signal output from the operating device 40, thereby reducing the flow rate of hydraulic fluid supplied to the hydraulic attachment 10a and slowing down the flow velocity of the hydraulic fluid.

Furthermore, while the function of controlling the work device 10 having a hydraulic attachment 10a was described as a function classified under Category 6, the above-described function is merely an example. Other functions classified under Category 6 may include the control device 80 controlling the auxiliary valve 32 to change the speed, etc.

Category 7 is a classification related to the front loader 35. Category 7 classifies the functions that control the boom cylinder 35d and/or bucket cylinder 35e. The control device 80 can control functions 34 through 41, which are work functions, as classified under Category 7. Function 34 is the function of extending the boom cylinder 35d and swinging the boom 35b upward based on operator input. As function 34, the control device 80 controls the control valve based on the operation signal output from the operating device 40, extending the boom cylinder 35d and swinging the boom 35b upward.

The 35th function is to retract the boom cylinder 35d and swing the boom 35b downward based on the operator's input. The control device 80, as the 35th function, controls the control valve based on the operation signal output from the operating device 40, retracting the boom cylinder 35d and swinging the boom 35b downward.

The 36th function is to retract the bucket cylinder 35e based on the operator's input, causing the bucket 35c to swing upward (scooping motion). The control device 80, as the 36th function, controls the control valve based on the operation signal output from the operating device 40, retracting the bucket cylinder 35e and performing the scooping motion.

The 37th function is to extend the bucket cylinder 35e based on the operator's input and swing the bucket 35c downward (dumping operation). The control device 80, as the 37th function, controls the control valve based on the operation signal output from the operating device 40, extending the bucket cylinder 35e and performing the dumping operation.

The 38th function is to remove the load from the bucket 35c by shaking it. The control device 80, as the 38th function, controls the control valves connected to the boom cylinder 35d and the bucket cylinder 35e, respectively, to tilt the bucket 35c downwards and shake it multiple times.

The 39th function is to calculate the mass of the load in the bucket 35c. As the 39th function, the control device 80 calculates the mass of the load based on the pressure of the hydraulic fluid flowing through the oil passages connected to the boom cylinder 35d and bucket cylinder 35e, the angle of the boom 35b, etc., and displays the calculated mass on the display device 90. Note that the control device 80 only needs to be able to calculate the mass of the load as the 39th function, and the calculation method is not limited to the method described above.

The 40th function is to change the operating speed of the front loader 35 based on the operator's input. As the 40th function, the control device 80 adjusts the opening degree of the control valves for the boom cylinder 35d and the bucket cylinder 35e when operating the front loader 35, based on the operation signal output from the operating device 40, and changes the flow rate of the hydraulic fluid supplied to the boom cylinder 35d and the bucket cylinder 35e.

The 41st function is to move the operating position of the front loader 35 (bucket 35c) to a predetermined position. As the 41st function, the control device 80 controls the control valve of the boom cylinder 35d and the control valve of the bucket cylinder 35e based on the position information stored in the storage device 81, the angle of the boom 35b detected by the second angle sensor 70f, and the angle of the bucket 35c detected by the third angle sensor 70g, thereby moving the operating position of the bucket 35c to a predetermined position.

Furthermore, while the functions related to the front loader 35 were described as belonging to Category 7, the functions described above are merely examples. Other functions belonging to Category 7 may include the control device 80 controlling the control valves of the boom cylinder 35d and the bucket cylinder 35e to maintain the bucket 35c in a horizontal position (horizontal control).

Category 8 is a classification related to the precision work of the work device 10. Category 8 classifies the functions that perform the precision work of the work device 10. The control device 80 can control functions 42 and 43, which are work functions classified under Category 8. Function 42 is a function that allows the work vehicle 1 to perform a predefined series of actions. Information such as the content and sequence of these actions is stored in the storage device 81. The storage device 81 stores, for example, actions performed when the work vehicle 1 moves from the work area inside the headland to the headland area of the field (exit action), and a series of actions performed when the work vehicle 1 moves from the headland area to the work area (entry action).

Specifically, as its 42nd function, the control device 80, upon reading the exit operation from the storage device 81, controls the control valve to raise the work device 10 and controls the hydraulic clutch of the PTO power transmission unit 20e to switch the power from the drive shaft 20a to the PTO shaft 22. Furthermore, the control device 80 controls the rear wheel differential device 21R to release the differential lock and controls the front transmission unit 20f to switch to 2WD.

Furthermore, as its 42nd function, the control device 80, upon reading an intrusion operation from the storage device 81, controls the front transmission unit 20f to switch to a 4WD constant speed state and controls the rear differential device 21R to lock the differential. The control device 80 also controls the control valve to lower the work device 10 and controls the hydraulic clutch of the PTO power transmission unit 20e to switch to a state where power from the drive shaft 20a is transmitted to the PTO shaft 22.

Furthermore, the series of actions performed by the work vehicle 1 in function 42 are not limited to exit and entry actions; any series of actions performed by the work vehicle 1 is acceptable, and the content of those actions is not limited to the examples described above.

The 43rd function is the function by which the work device 10 controls the work vehicle 1 via the control device 80 when the work device 10 is connected to the control device 80 in a communicative manner. The control device 80 controls, for example, the 17th to 20th functions, the 25th function, and the 26th function, based on instructions from the control unit 10b, which is provided in the work device 10 and consists of electrical/electronic circuits, a CPU, and a program stored therein.

Furthermore, while the functions related to precision work of the work device 10 were described as functions classified under Category 8, the functions described above are merely examples. Other functions classified under Category 8 may include the control device 80 controlling the automatic steering mechanism and controlling the steering of the vehicle body 2 based on a predetermined travel line (automatic steering).

Category 9 is a classification of other equipment. This category includes functions such as adjusting the volume of the speaker installed on the work vehicle 1 (Function 44) and adjusting the operating sensitivity of the control device 40 (Function 45).

The above-mentioned functions (functions 1 through 45) and their categories (categories 1 through 9) are merely examples, and the types and classification methods of these functions are not limited. Only some of these functions may be adopted as functions of the work vehicle 1, or other functions may be added or modified. Furthermore, although a detailed explanation is omitted, the control device 80 may also execute functions that change the parameters of each function, such as the 10th function which changes the first prime mover speed of the 9th function, or the 12th function which changes the second prime mover speed of the 11th function.

As shown in Figure 2, the operating device 40 includes an operating lever 41, a dial 44, and an operating tool 49. Figure 5 is a plan view showing the arrangement of the armrest 16 and other components around the driver's seat 4. As shown in Figure 5, the armrest 16 is provided on the other side (right side) of the driver's seat 4 in the vehicle width direction, and the operating device 40 is mounted on the armrest 16. Figure 6 is a plan view of the armrest 16. As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the armrest 16 is positioned with its longitudinal direction facing the front-rear direction and its short direction facing the vehicle width direction.

The operating lever 41 is a lever for operating various functions of the work vehicle 1. The operating lever 41 is supported so as to be swingable, and can be swung in at least one direction. The operating lever 41 is provided projecting upward from the first region 16a formed on the upper surface of the front part of the armrest 16. The operating device 40 has one or more operating levers 41; in this embodiment, it has one operating lever 41.

Furthermore, the number of operating levers 41 provided by the operating device 40 is not limited to one; it may be two, three, or any other number. Also, the operating direction of the operating levers 41 is not limited to the front-rear direction and the vehicle width direction, and the number of operating directions and their directions are not limited to the examples described above.

Figure 7 is a perspective view of the area around the grip portion 41b of the operating lever 41, viewed from the upper left rear. As shown in Figure 7, the operating lever 41 has a base end (oscillating body) 41a and a grip portion (grip) 41b. The base end 41a is pivotably supported on the upper surface of the first region 16a, in other words, around the driver's seat 4 of the work vehicle 1. Specifically, the base end 41a includes a shaft inserted through the first region 16a and constitutes the pivot axis (the axis that swings) of the operating lever 41. The base end 41a can swing, for example, in the front-rear direction and in the vehicle width direction.

As shown in Figure 7, the gripping portion 41b is provided at the upper part (tip) of the base portion 41a. The gripping portion 41b has a gripping portion 41b1 and an operating portion 41b2. The gripping portion 41b1 and the operating portion 41b2 of the operating lever 41 are arranged side by side in the vertical direction, and in this embodiment, the operating portion 41b2 is positioned above the gripping portion 41b1.

The grip portion 41b1 is the part that an operator seated in the driver's seat 4 holds with one hand (right hand). The operating portion 41b2 is the part that the operator, holding the grip portion 41b1, operates by extending their fingers.

Furthermore, as shown in Figures 2 and 7, the operating lever 41 has one or more operating switches 42. The operating switches 42 are switches for operating various functions of the work vehicle 1. In this embodiment, multiple operating switches 42 are provided on the operating lever 41. The operating switches 42 are various types of switches, including push-button switches (tactile switches) whose operating surface 42a is operated by pressing, slide switches whose operating surface 42a is operated by sliding, and dial-shaped switches (dial switches) such as selector switches with multiple switching positions. As shown in Figure 7, the operating switches 42 are located on the rear surface of the operating portion 41b2 of the operating lever 41. That is, the multiple operating switches 42 are located on the side of the grip portion 41b facing the driver's seat 4.

In this embodiment, the number of operation switches 42 is 13. The operation switches 42 include a first operation switch 42A, a second operation switch 42B, a third operation switch 42C, a fourth operation switch 42D, a fifth operation switch 42E, a sixth operation switch 42F, a seventh operation switch 42G, an eighth operation switch 42H, a ninth operation switch 42I, a tenth operation switch 42J, an eleventh operation switch 42K, a twelfth operation switch 42L, and a thirteenth operation switch 42M.

As shown in Figure 7, in the example shown in this embodiment, the first operation switch 42A, the second operation switch 42B, the third operation switch 42C, the fourth operation switch 42D, the fifth operation switch 42E, the sixth operation switch 42F, the seventh operation switch 42G, the tenth operation switch 42J, the eleventh operation switch 42K, and the twelfth operation switch 42L are tactile switches. The eighth operation switch 42H and the ninth operation switch 42I are slide switches. The thirteenth operation switch 42M is a dial switch.

Furthermore, the number of operation switches 42 is not limited to 13; it may be one, two, or any other number, and the type of switches is also not limited.

The dial 44 is a dial switch, such as a selector switch, with multiple switching positions. As shown in Figures 2, 5, and 6, the operating device 40 has multiple dials 44, including at least a first dial (first function operating tool) 45 and a second dial (second function operating tool) 46. Figure 8 is a perspective view of the first dial 45 and the second dial 46 from the upper left rear. As shown in Figures 5, 6, and 8, the dials 44 are provided in a second region 16b formed on the upper surface of the front part of the armrest 16. The second region 16b is located behind the first region 16a and is arranged side-by-side with the first region 16a in the front-to-back direction.

Furthermore, the operating device 40 may have other dials 44 in addition to the first dial 45 and the second dial 46. For example, the operating device 40 may have a third dial 47. The third dial 47 receives an operation instruction for the 25th function when rotated in one direction (clockwise), and receives an operation instruction for the 26th function when rotated in the other direction (counterclockwise).

Furthermore, the operating device 40 may have a fourth dial 48 for operating the display device 90. The fourth dial 48 can be rotated and pressed. Rotation of the fourth dial 48 in one direction (clockwise) or the other direction (counterclockwise) accepts the selection of an item displayed on the display device 90. Pressing the fourth dial 48 accepts the confirmation (confirmation) of the selected item.

The operating tool 49 is a switch for operating a predetermined function from among multiple functions. In this embodiment, the operating device 40 has multiple operating tools 49. The operating tool 49 is a push-button switch (tactile switch) that is operated by pressing. Figure 9 is a plan view of the multiple operating tools 49. The operating surface 49a of the operating tool 49 is substantially rectangular in plan view. As shown in Figures 5, 6, and 9, there are 10 operating tools 49. The operating tools 49 include the first operating tool 49A, the second operating tool 49B, the third operating tool 49C, the fourth operating tool 49D, the fifth operating tool 49E, the sixth operating tool 49F, the seventh operating tool 49G, the eighth operating tool 49H, the ninth operating tool 49I, and the tenth operating tool 49J. In the examples shown in Figures 5, 6, and 9, the first operating tool 49A, the second operating tool 49B, the third operating tool 49C, the fourth operating tool 49D, and the fifth operating tool 49E are arranged in a row (first row) in the vehicle width direction. The sixth operating tool 49F, the seventh operating tool 49G, the eighth operating tool 49H, the ninth operating tool 49I, and the tenth operating tool 49J are also arranged in the vehicle width direction, forming a row (second row). The first and second rows are arranged in a row in the front-to-back direction.

Furthermore, the number of operating devices 49 is not limited to 10; it may be 1, 2, or any other number.

As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the operating device 49 is provided in the third region 16c formed on the upper surface of the front part of the armrest 16. The third region 16c is located behind the second region 16b and is positioned parallel to the second region 16b in the front-to-back direction.

In the above-described embodiment, the operating device 40 was explained using the example of a case where the operating device 40 has an operating lever 41, a dial 44, and an operating tool 49. However, the operating device 40 only needs to have at least one of the operating lever 41, dial 44, and operating tool 49, and may have other operating members in addition to one of the operating lever 41, dial 44, and operating tool 49. For example, as shown in Figure 2, the operating device 40 may have one or more swinging operating members 50 that are swung. The swinging operating member 50 receives an operation instruction for the 32nd function when swung in one direction (forward), and receives an operation instruction for the 33rd function when swung in the other direction (rearward).

As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the swinging operating member 50 is provided in the fourth region 16d formed on the upper surface of the front part of the armrest 16. The fourth region 16d is located behind the third region 16c and is positioned parallel to the third region 16c in the front-to-back direction. More specifically, the fourth region 16d is located at the rear of the armrest 16 and in front of the elbow rest 16e where a seated worker in the driver's seat 4 rests their elbow.

The operating device 40 preferably has a number of swing operating members 50 corresponding to the number of auxiliary valves 32. That is, in this embodiment, since there are four auxiliary valves 32, the operating device 40 has four swing operating members 50. The four swing operating members 50 are arranged adjacent to each other in the vehicle width direction and can be oscillated around an axis extending substantially in the vehicle width direction.

As shown in Figures 2, 5, and 6, the operating device 40 is equipped with a selection tool 51, which allows the user to select the operating mode of the operating lever 41. The selection tool 51 is located in the vicinity of the operating lever 41 within the first region 16a. The selection tool 51 is, for example, a physical switch, such as a push-button switch (tactile switch) operated by pressure, or a dial-shaped switch such as a selector switch with multiple switching positions. In this embodiment, the selection tool 51 is a tactile switch. The operating lever 41 sequentially switches the operating mode in response to the operation of the tactile switch. In the above example, the selection tool 51 was described using a tactile switch located in the first region 16a as an example, but it is not limited to a tactile switch, nor is its location limited to the first region 16a. For example, the selection tool 51 may be a display image displayed on a display screen such as the display device 90, which accepts operation.

The operating lever 41 changes its function of receiving operation instructions according to the operation mode selected by the selection tool 51. This allows the operating lever 41 to control various functions of the work vehicle 1, eliminating the need for the operator to change their grip on the operating lever 41 each time the environment in which the work vehicle 1 operates or the work content changes, thus preventing the operation of the wrong lever or switch. Furthermore, since there is no need to increase the number of operating levers 41 according to the type of function of the work vehicle 1, the number of operating members on the operating device 40 can be reduced, improving the overall operability of the operating device 40 and preventing the operating lever 41 from obstructing the operator's view.

The control device 80 indirectly changes the function of the operating lever 41 by, for example, changing the function corresponding to the operation signal output from the operating lever 41. Specifically, the storage device 81 stores multiple tables (standard tables) that associate the operation signals of the operating lever 41 with their functions, according to the operation mode. The control device 80 retrieves the standard table corresponding to the operation mode from the storage device 81 and changes the function corresponding to the operation signal output from the operating lever 41.

Furthermore, the operation lever 41 only needs to be able to change its function of receiving operation instructions according to the operation mode. The operation lever 41 itself may change its operation mode and output different operation signals to the control device 80 according to the operation mode, thereby changing its function of receiving operation instructions. In such a case, the operation lever 41 has an operation control unit (not shown) composed of electrical/electronic circuits, a program stored in a CPU, etc., and this operation control unit switches the operation mode and outputs different operation signals for each operation. Also, a storage medium (not shown) connected to the operation control unit stores multiple standard tables that associate operations with operation signals according to the operation mode, and the operation control unit retrieves the standard table corresponding to the operation mode from the storage medium and outputs different operation signals for each operation.

The operating lever 41 receives operation instructions for functions via a swinging motion, based on the operation mode selected by the selection device 51. In other words, when the operating lever 41 is swung, it receives operation instructions for different functions depending on the operation mode. Alternatively, or in addition to this, the operating lever 41 may also receive operation instructions for functions via the operation of the operating switch 42, based on the operation mode. In other words, when the operating switch 42 is operated, the operating lever 41 may receive operation instructions for different functions depending on the operation mode.

The operating modes of the control lever 41 include multiple modes. In this embodiment, the operating modes include the first to fourth modes. That is, in this embodiment, the storage device 81 stores four standard tables (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the first to fourth standard tables) corresponding to the first to fourth modes. Figure 10 shows an example of a standard table. The relationship between the first to fourth modes, the types of operations performed by the control lever 41 in each operating mode, and the operation instructions for the functions accepted by those operations will be explained below using Figure 10.

The first mode is a mode for operating at least the work-related functions of the work vehicle 1. In the first mode, the operating lever 41 receives operation instructions for work functions through a rocking motion. In the first standard table, the operation signals output by the operating lever 41 when rocked are associated with the work functions. In other words, in the first mode, the operating lever 41 does not receive operation instructions for the driving function through a rocking motion.

Specifically, in the first mode, when the operating lever 41 is swung forward, it receives an operation instruction for the 35th function. In other words, in the first standard table, the operation signal output by the operating lever 41 when swung forward is associated with the 35th function. Therefore, in the first mode, when the operating lever 41 is swung forward, the control device 80 controls the control valve, retracting the boom cylinder 35d and causing the boom 35b to swing downward.

In the first mode, when the operating lever 41 is swung backward, it receives an operation instruction for the 36th function. In other words, in the first standard table, the operation signal output by the operating lever 41 when swung backward is associated with the 36th function. Therefore, in the first mode, when the operating lever 41 is swung backward, the control device 80 controls the control valve, extending the boom cylinder 35d and swinging the boom 35b upward.

In the first mode, when the operating lever 41 is swung to the right, it receives an operation instruction for the 37th function. In other words, in the first standard table, the operation signal output by the operating lever 41 when swung to the right is associated with the 37th function. Therefore, in the first mode, when the operating lever 41 is swung to the right, the control device 80 controls the control valve, extends the bucket cylinder 35e, and causes the bucket 35c to perform a dumping operation.

In the first mode, when the operating lever 41 is swung to the left, it receives an operation instruction for the 38th function. In other words, in the first standard table, the operation signal output by the operating lever 41 when swung to the left is associated with the 38th function. Therefore, in the first mode, when the operating lever 41 is swung to the left, the control device 80 controls the control valve, retracting the bucket cylinder 35e and causing the bucket 35c to perform a scooping motion.

Furthermore, in the first mode, the operating lever 41 receives operation instructions for multiple functions, including work functions, through the operation of multiple operating switches 42. In other words, in the first standard table, at least one work function is associated with the operation signal output by the operating lever 41 when an operating switch 42 is operated.

Specifically, in the first mode, the operating lever 41 receives an operation instruction for the first function when the first operating switch 42A is operated. In other words, in the first standard table, the operation signal output by the operating lever 41 when the first operating switch 42A is operated is associated with the first function. Therefore, in the first mode, when the first operating switch 42A is operated, the control device 80 switches the first function between enabled and disabled according to the operation. When the first function is enabled, the control device 80 controls the shifter of the main transmission unit 20b and/or the shifter of the sub-transmission unit 20c based on the vehicle speed detected by the vehicle speed sensor 70h and a predefined control map to change the gear ratio of the transmission 20.

In the first mode, the operating lever 41 receives an operation instruction for the 45th function when the second operating switch 42B is operated. That is, in the first standard table, the operation signal output by the operating lever 41 when the second operating switch 42B is operated is associated with the 45th function. Therefore, in the first mode, when the second operating switch 42B is operated, the control device 80 adjusts the operating sensitivity of the operating device 40 according to the operation of the second operating switch 42B. In this embodiment, the control device 80 adjusts the operating sensitivity of the swing operation of the operating lever 41, for example, the dead zone, in response to the operation of the second operating switch 42B, switching between multiple levels from a low operating sensitivity to a high operating sensitivity.

In the first mode, the operating lever 41 receives an operation instruction for the ninth function when the third operating switch 42C is operated. In other words, in the first standard table, the operation signal output by the operating lever 41 when the third operating switch 42C is operated is associated with the ninth function. Therefore, in the first mode, when the third operating switch 42C is operated, the control device 80 switches the ninth function between enabled and disabled according to the operation. When the ninth function is enabled, the rotational speed of the prime mover 6 is controlled to the first prime mover speed, regardless of the operation of the accelerator pedal.

In the first mode, the operating lever 41 receives an operation instruction for the seventh function when the fourth operating switch 42D is operated. In other words, in the first standard table, the operation signal output by the operating lever 41 when the fourth operating switch 42D is operated is associated with the seventh function. Therefore, in the first mode, when the fourth operating switch 42D is operated, the control device 80 switches the seventh function between enabled and disabled according to the operation. If the seventh function is enabled, and the brake pedal is operated, causing the vehicle speed to fall below a predetermined level, the hydraulic clutch of the shuttle unit 20d is switched to the neutral position, thereby interrupting the transmission of power to the running gear 3.

In the first mode, the operating lever 41 receives an operation instruction for the 41st function when the 5th operating switch 42E is operated. In other words, in the first standard table, the operation signal output by the operating lever 41 when the 5th operating switch 42E is operated is associated with the 41st function. Therefore, in the first mode, when the 5th operating switch 42E is operated, the control device 80 moves the operating position of the front loader 35 (bucket 35c) to a predetermined position in response to the operation.

In the first mode, the operating lever 41 receives an operation instruction for the 25th function when the 6th operating switch 42F is operated. In other words, in the first standard table, the operation signal output by the operating lever 41 when the 6th operating switch 42F is operated is associated with the 25th function. Therefore, in the first mode, when the 6th operating switch 42F is operated, the control device 80 extends the lift cylinder 30e in response to the operation, raising the work device 10 connected to the lifting device 30.

In the first mode, the operating lever 41 receives an operation instruction for the 26th function when the 7th operating switch 42G is operated. In other words, in the first standard table, the operation signal output by the operating lever 41 when the 7th operating switch 42G is operated is associated with the 26th function. Therefore, in the first mode, when the 7th operating switch 42G is operated, the control device 80 retracts the lift cylinder 30e in response to the operation, lowering the work device 10 connected to the lifting device 30.

In the first mode, the operating lever 41 receives an operation instruction for either the 32nd or 33rd function when the 8th operating switch 42H is operated. That is, in the first standard table, the operation signal output by the operating lever 41 when the 8th operating switch 42H is slid in one direction is associated with the 32nd function, and the operation signal output by the operating lever 41 when the 8th operating switch 42H is slid in the other direction is associated with the 33rd function. In this embodiment, when the 8th operating switch 42H is operated in the first mode, the control device 80 controls the first auxiliary valve 32a in response to the operation, adjusting the flow rate of hydraulic fluid supplied to the hydraulic attachment 10a.

In the first mode, the operating lever 41 receives an operation instruction for either the 32nd or 33rd function when the 9th operating switch 42I is operated. That is, in the first standard table, the operation signal output by the operating lever 41 when the 9th operating switch 42I is slid in one direction is associated with the 32nd function, and the operation signal output by the operating lever 41 when the 9th operating switch 42I is slid in the other direction is associated with the 33rd function. In this embodiment, when the 9th operating switch 42I is operated in the first mode, the control device 80 controls the second auxiliary valve 32b in response to the operation, adjusting the flow rate of hydraulic fluid supplied to the hydraulic attachment 10a.

In the first mode, the operating lever 41 receives an operation instruction for the 40th function when the 10th operating switch 42J is operated. In other words, in the first standard table, the operation signal output by the operating lever 41 when the 10th operating switch 42J is operated is associated with the 40th function. Therefore, in the first mode, when the 10th operating switch 42J is operated, the control device 80 has the function of changing the operating speed of the front loader 35. In this embodiment, the control device 80 switches the operating speed of the front loader 35 between multiple stages (levels), from a slow state to a fast state, in response to the operation of the 10th operating switch 42J.

In the first mode, the operating lever 41 receives an operation instruction for the 15th function when the 11th operating switch 42K is operated. In other words, in the first standard table, the operation signal output by the operating lever 41 when the 11th operating switch 42K is operated is associated with the 15th function. Therefore, in the first mode, when the 11th operating switch 42K is operated, the control device 80 controls the shuttle unit 20d to switch the rotation direction of the power output from the sub-transmission unit 20c to forward.

In the first mode, the operating lever 41 receives an operation instruction for the 16th function when the 12th operating switch 42L is operated. In other words, in the first standard table, the operation signal output by the operating lever 41 when the 12th operating switch 42L is operated is associated with the 16th function. Therefore, in the first mode, when the 12th operating switch 42L is operated, the control device 80 controls the shuttle unit 20d to switch the rotation direction of the power output from the sub-transmission unit 20c to reverse.

In the first mode, the operating lever 41 receives an operation instruction for the fourth or fifth function when the 13th operating switch 42M is operated. That is, in the first standard table, the operation signal output by the operating lever 41 when the 13th operating switch 42M is rotated in one direction is associated with the fourth function, and the operation signal output by the operating lever 41 when the 13th operating switch 42M is rotated in the other direction is associated with the fifth function. Therefore, in the first mode, when the 13th operating switch 42M is rotated in one direction, the control device 80 controls the shifter of the main transmission unit 20b and/or the shifter of the sub-transmission unit 20c to increase the gear ratio of the transmission 20. Also, in the first mode, when the 13th operating switch 42M is rotated in the other direction, the control device 80 controls the shifter of the main transmission unit 20b and/or the shifter of the sub-transmission unit 20c to decrease the gear ratio of the transmission 20.

Therefore, in the first mode, the operating lever 41, through its swinging motion and the operation of the multiple operating switches 42, accepts more operational commands for work functions than for travel functions. In other words, in the first mode, the operating lever 41 prioritizes accepting operational commands for work functions over those for travel functions.

The second mode is for operating at least the driving function of the work vehicle 1. In the second mode, the operating lever 41 receives operation instructions for the driving function by a rocking motion. In the second standard table, the operation signal output by the operating lever 41 when rocked is associated with the driving function. In other words, in the second mode, the operating lever 41 does not receive operation instructions for the work function by a rocking motion.

Specifically, in the second mode, when the operating lever 41 is swung forward, it receives an operation instruction for the fourth function. In other words, in the second standard table, the operation signal output by the operating lever 41 when swung forward is associated with the fourth function. Therefore, in the second mode, when the operating lever 41 is swung forward, the control device 80 controls the shifter of the main transmission unit 20b and/or the shifter of the sub-transmission unit 20c to increase the gear ratio of the transmission 20.

In the second mode, when the operating lever 41 is swung backward, it receives an operation instruction for the fifth function. In other words, in the second standard table, the operation signal output by the operating lever 41 when swung backward is associated with the fifth function. Therefore, in the second mode, when the operating lever 41 is swung backward, the control device 80 controls the shifter of the main transmission unit 20b and/or the shifter of the sub-transmission unit 20c to lower the gear of the transmission 20.

Furthermore, as shown in Figure 2, etc., when a restraining switch 52 is provided on the operating lever 41, if the operating lever 41 is swung forward while the restraining switch 52 is not operated, it receives an operation instruction to raise the gear of the main transmission unit 20b, and if it is swung backward, it receives an operation instruction to lower the gear of the main transmission unit 20b. On the other hand, if the operating lever 41 is swung forward while the restraining switch 52 is operated, it receives an operation instruction to raise the gear of the auxiliary transmission unit 20c, and if it is swung backward, it receives an operation instruction to lower the gear of the auxiliary transmission unit 20c.

In the second mode, when the operating lever 41 is swung to the right, it receives an operation instruction for the first function. That is, in the second standard table, the operation signal output by the operating lever 41 when swung to the right is associated with the first function. Therefore, in the second mode, when the operating lever 41 is swung to the right, the control device 80 switches the first function between enabled and disabled in response to the swung operation. When the first function is enabled, the control device 80 controls the shifter of the main transmission unit 20b and/or the shifter of the sub-transmission unit 20c based on the vehicle speed detected by the vehicle speed sensor 70h and a predefined control map, thereby changing the gear ratio of the transmission 20.

In the second mode, when the operating lever 41 is swung to the left, it receives an operation instruction for either the 15th or 16th function. In other words, in the second standard table, the operation signal output by the operating lever 41 when swung to the left is associated with either the 15th or 16th function. Therefore, in the second mode, when the operating lever 41 is swung to the left, the control device 80 switches between the 15th and 16th functions each time the swung operation occurs, switching the rotation direction of the power output from the sub-transmission unit 20c to forward or reverse.

Furthermore, in the second mode, the operating lever 41 receives operation instructions for functions including the driving function through the operation of multiple operating switches 42. In other words, in the second standard table, at least one driving function is associated with the operation signal output by the operating lever 41 when an operating switch 42 is operated.

In this embodiment, when an operation switch 42 other than the fifth operation switch 42E and the tenth operation switch 42J is operated in the second mode, the operation lever 41 receives the same operation instruction for the same function as when the same operation switch 42 is operated in the first mode. In other words, the assignment of operation and function for operation switches 42 other than the fifth operation switch 42E and the tenth operation switch 42J in the first mode is the same as the assignment of operation and function for operation switches 42 other than the fifth operation switch 42E and the tenth operation switch 42J in the second mode.

Therefore, in the following explanation, the description of the operation instructions for the functions that the operating lever 41 receives when an operating switch 42 other than the fifth operating switch 42E and the tenth operating switch 42J is operated in the second mode will be omitted.

In the second mode, the operating lever 41 receives an operation instruction for the second function when the fifth operating switch 42E is operated. In other words, in the second standard table, the operation signal output by the operating lever 41 when the fifth operating switch 42E is operated is associated with the second function. Therefore, in the second mode, when the fifth operating switch 42E is operated, the control device 80 switches the mode of the second function and changes the controlled object of the first function accordingly.

In the second mode, the operating lever 41 receives an operation instruction for the 14th function when the 10th operating switch 42J is operated. In other words, in the second standard table, the operation signal output by the operating lever 41 when the 10th operating switch 42J is operated is associated with the 14th function. Therefore, in the second mode, when the 10th operating switch 42J is operated, the control device 80 controls the shuttle unit 20d in response to the operation, switching it to the neutral position and thereby interrupting power transmission.

Therefore, in the second mode, the operating lever 41, through its swinging operation and the operation of the multiple operating switches 42, accepts more operating instructions for the travel function than for the work function. In other words, in the second mode, the operating lever 41 prioritizes accepting operating instructions for the travel function over those for the work function.

The third mode is for operating the driving and working functions. In the third mode, the operating lever 41 receives operating instructions for the driving function via a swinging motion. In other words, in the third mode, the operating lever 41 does not receive operating instructions for the working function via a swinging motion.

Specifically, when the operating lever 41 is swung in a predetermined direction in the third mode, it receives the same function operation instruction as when it is swung in the same direction in the second mode. In other words, the assignment of swung operations to functions in the second mode and the assignment of swung operations to functions in the third mode are common.

Therefore, in the third mode, when the operating lever 41 is swung forward, it receives an operation instruction for the fourth function, and when it is swung backward, it receives an operation instruction for the fifth function. Also in the third mode, when the operating lever 41 is swung to the right, it receives an operation instruction for the first function, and when it is swung to the left, it alternately receives operation instructions for the fifteenth and sixteenth functions each time it is swung.

Furthermore, in the third mode, the operating lever 41 receives operation instructions for multiple functions, including the driving function, through the operation of multiple operating switches 42. In other words, in the third standard table, at least one driving function and one work function are associated with the operation signals output by the operating lever 41 when the operating switches 42 are operated.

In the third mode, the operation of the work vehicle 1, which receives operation instructions via the operation switch 42, differs from the operation of the work vehicle 1, which receives operation instructions via the operation switch 42, in the second mode. Therefore, when switching between the second and third modes, control related to driving by swinging the operation lever 41 can be performed continuously before and after the switch, while switching between the second and third modes allows different operations to be controlled with the same operation switch 42.

In this embodiment, when an operation switch 42 other than the fifth operation switch 42E and the tenth operation switch 42J is operated in the second mode, the operation lever 41 receives an operation instruction for the same function as when the same operation switch 42 is operated in the first and second modes. In other words, the assignment of operation and function for operation switches 42 other than the fifth operation switch 42E and the tenth operation switch 42J in the first and second modes is the same as the assignment of operation and function for operation switches 42 other than the fifth operation switch 42E and the tenth operation switch 42J in the third mode.

Therefore, in the following explanation, the description of the operation instructions for the functions that the operating lever 41 receives when an operating switch 42 other than the fifth operating switch 42E and the tenth operating switch 42J is operated in the third mode will be omitted.

Specifically, in the third mode, the operating lever 41 receives an operation instruction for the 42nd function when the 5th operating switch 42E is operated. In other words, in the third standard table, the operation signal output by the operating lever 41 when the 5th operating switch 42E is operated is associated with the 42nd function. Therefore, in the third mode, when the 5th operating switch 42E is operated, the control device 80 performs a predetermined series of operations on the work vehicle 1 in response to that operation. In particular, in this embodiment, when the 5th operating switch 42E is operated in the third mode, the control device 80 performs an entry operation in response to that operation.

In the third mode, the operating lever 41 receives an operation instruction for the 43rd function when the 10th operating switch 42J is operated. In other words, in the third standard table, the operation signal output by the operating lever 41 when the 10th operating switch 42J is operated is associated with the 43rd function. Therefore, in the third mode, when the 10th operating switch 42J is operated, the control device 80 switches the 43rd function between enabled and disabled in response to the operation. When the 43rd function is enabled, the control device 80 controls the work vehicle 1 based on the instruction signal output from the work device 10.

Therefore, in the third mode, the operating lever 41, through its swinging operation and the operation of the multiple operating switches 42, accepts more operating instructions for the travel function than for the work function. In other words, in the third mode, the operating lever 41 prioritizes accepting operating instructions for the travel function over those for the work function.

The fourth mode is one in which the operation instructions for the functions of the work vehicle 1 are not accepted by the swinging operation, but are accepted by the operation of the operation switch 42. In other words, when the operation lever 41 is swung in the fourth mode, it does not accept operation instructions regardless of the direction or amount of the operation. That is, in the fourth standard table, no function is associated with the swinging operation of the operation lever 41.

Therefore, when the operating lever 41 is in the fourth mode, the control device 80 does not control (execute) the function based on the operation signal output from the operating lever 41. This prevents the work vehicle 1 from unintentionally moving and/or performing operations, even if the operator accidentally touches the operating lever 41 and swings it when leaving or sitting in the driver's seat 4.

Furthermore, when the operating lever 41 itself changes the operating mode, the operating lever 41 in the fourth mode may be configured not to output an operating signal to the control device 80 when it is swung.

Furthermore, when the operating switch 42 is operated in the fourth mode, the operating lever 41 receives the same function operation instruction as when the same operating switch 42 is operated in the first mode. In other words, the assignment of operation and function to the operating switch 42 in the first mode is the same as the assignment of operation and function to the operating switch 42 in the fourth mode.

As explained above, by switching the operating lever 41 between the first to fourth modes, it is possible to continuously operate the machine using the operating lever 41 without having to change your grip on the lever when operating the work function or the travel function.

The assignment of the swing operation of the operating lever 41 to its function, and the assignment of the operation of the operating switch 42 to its function, in the above-described operating modes (modes 1 to 4), are merely examples and are not limited to the above-described assignments. For example, if the transmission 20 is a continuously variable transmission, the operating lever 41 may receive an operation instruction to execute cruise control when the fourth operating switch 42D is operated.

Furthermore, in addition to the first to fourth modes described above, new modes may be added. In such cases, the operator registers the new mode by operating the display device 90 (second display device 90B).

The control device 80 notifies the operator of the selected operating mode when the operating mode of the operating lever 41 is selected by the selection tool 51. As shown in Figures 2 and 7, the operating device 40 includes a display unit 43. The display unit 43 is located on the operating lever 41. The display unit 43 changes its display format according to the operating mode selected by the operation of the selection tool 51. This allows the display unit 43 to notify the operator of the operating mode.

The display unit 43 is a lamp that changes the color of the light it emits according to the operating mode. The lamp is a light-generating device that emits light. The lamp is composed of one or more light sources (such as LEDs). In this embodiment, the display unit 43 is a bar-shaped lamp located at the end of the operating unit 41b2. The display unit 43 is positioned above the operating unit 41b2, extending approximately in the direction of the vehicle's width.

The display unit 43 is communicatively connected to the control device 80 and can be turned on and off, and illuminated in different colors, based on control signals output from the control device 80. Based on control signals output from the control device 80, the display unit 43 can generate, for example, blue, orange, green, and red light from the Ostwald color system. In the following description, when describing colors, all colors will be described using the colors defined in the Ostwald color system. Furthermore, the display unit 43 can also blink in different colors based on control signals output from the control device 80.

When the first mode is selected by the selection tool 51, the control device 80 outputs a control signal to the display unit 43, changing the color of the light emitted by the display unit 43 to blue. When the second mode is selected, the control device 80 outputs a control signal to the display unit 43, changing the color of the light emitted by the display unit 43 to orange. When the third mode is selected by the selection tool 51, the control device 80 outputs a control signal to the display unit 43, changing the color of the light emitted by the display unit 43 to green. Then, when the fourth mode is selected by the selection tool 51, the control device 80 outputs a control signal to the display unit 43, changing the color of the light emitted by the display unit 43 to red. This allows the operator to easily understand the current operating mode that has been switched by the operation of the selection tool 51.

The combination of the operation mode and the color of the light generated by the display unit 43 described above is merely an example and is not limited to the combinations described above. Furthermore, in the embodiment described above, the display unit 43 is a lamp that changes the color of the light it generates according to the operation mode. However, the display unit 43 only needs to change its display configuration according to the operation mode selected by the selection tool 51, and may also change its display configuration by changing the number of light sources that are lit and the number of light sources that are turned off.

Furthermore, in the embodiment described above, the display unit 43 is located at the end of the operating unit 41b2, but it is sufficient to provide it at least around the driver's seat 4 (in a position visible to an operator seated in the driver's seat 4), and its position is not limited to the operating lever 41. For example, the display unit 43 may be provided in the first area 16a of the armrest 16, or it may be provided on the meter panel 15 or other location besides the armrest 16.

Furthermore, when the operating mode of the operating lever 41 is selected by the selection device 51, the control device 80 may control (execute) a predetermined function from among multiple functions related to the work vehicle 1, or switch between enabling and disabling a function. When the first mode or the fourth mode is selected by the selection device 51, the control device 80 may, for example, execute a second function to optimize the control map of the transmission 20.

When the second mode is selected by the selection tool 51, the control device 80 may, for example, execute the second function to optimize the control map of the transmission 20, execute the 31st and 41st functions, or disable the 13th and 19th functions. Furthermore, when the third mode is selected by the selection tool 51, the control device 80 may disable the acceptance of operation instructions for the 13th, 19th, 25th, 26th, 29th, 30th functions, and the 34th to 37th functions, etc.

When the third mode is selected by the selection tool 51, the control device 80 may, for example, execute the second function to optimize the control map of the transmission 20, or enable the thirteenth and ninth functions, etc.

This allows for improved operability of the work vehicle 1 itself in accordance with changes in the operating mode of the control lever 41.

As shown in Figure 2, the operating device 40 is equipped with an operable switch 53. The switch 53 is, for example, a push-button switch (tactile switch) operated by pressure. Figure 12A is a perspective view of the area near the gripping portion 41b of the operating lever 41, viewed from the upper right front. As shown in Figures 7 and 12A, the switch 53 is positioned on a different side of the gripping portion 41b from the operating switches 42, for example, on the back surface of the side where multiple operating switches 42 are arranged.

In this embodiment, the switching device 53 is located on the back surface of the operating section 41b2 of the gripping section 41b. Therefore, the switching device 53 is operated by the operator extending their index or middle finger while gripping the gripping section 41b1. This prevents the operator from mistakenly operating the switching device 53 instead of the operating switch 42. This prevents the operator from unintentionally performing a second operation. Note that the switching device 53 only needs to be located on a different surface of the gripping section 41b from the operating switch 42, and may be located on the side surface rather than the back surface of the surface where the multiple operating switches 42 are located. In such a case, as shown in Figure 12B, it is preferable that the switching device 53 be located on the upper surface (side surface) of the gripping section 41b.

Based on the standard tables (standard tables 1 to 4) corresponding to the aforementioned operating modes (modes 1 to 4), if the functions of the operation instructions that the operating lever 41 receives through the operation of the operating switch 42 are defined as "standard functions," then, in response to the operation of the switching device 53, the operating lever 41 can receive operation instructions for functions (extended functions) of the work vehicle 1 that are different from the standard functions, through the operation of the operating switch 42.

In other words, the operating lever 41 receives an operation instruction for a predetermined standard function from among its functions in response to the operation of the operating switch 42. When the switching device 53 is operated, the operating switch 42 receives an operation instruction for an extended function of the work vehicle 1 that is different from the standard function. This allows a single operating switch 42 to receive operation instructions for multiple functions in response to the operation of the switching device 53. Therefore, it is not necessary to provide the operating lever 41 with a number of operating switches 42 corresponding to the number of functions of the work vehicle 1, thus preventing the operation of the operating switches 42 from becoming complicated and further improving the operability of the operating lever 41.

Specifically, the operating lever 41 receives operation instructions for standard functions via the operation switch 42 when the switch 53 is not being operated, and receives operation instructions for extended functions via the operation switch 42 when the switch 53 is being operated. Therefore, since the operation switch 42 only receives operation instructions for extended functions when the switch 53 is being operated, it is possible to prevent the operator from accidentally operating the extended functions.

Furthermore, the display unit 43 displays the operation of the switch 53 when it is being operated. In this embodiment, the display unit (lamp) 43 blinks to indicate the operation of the switch 53 when it is being operated, and lights up to indicate that the switch 53 is not being operated when it is not being operated. This allows the operator to easily understand whether the function of the operation instruction currently received by the operation switch 42 is a standard function or an extended function. This prevents the operator from unintentionally operating a standard function or an extended function when they make a mistake in operating the switch 53.

As shown in Figures 2 and 7, the operation switch 42 may have an illuminated section 42b provided on the operating surface 42a. Among the operation switches 42, the tactile switch operation switch 42 (in this embodiment, the first operation switch 42A, the second operation switch 42B, the third operation switch 42C, the fourth operation switch 42D, the fifth operation switch 42E, the sixth operation switch 42F, the seventh operation switch 42G, the tenth operation switch 42J, the eleventh operation switch 42K, and the twelfth operation switch 42L) has an illuminated section 42b on its operating surface 42a. The illuminated section 42b displays different indicators depending on whether the switch 53 is being operated or not. Therefore, by checking the illuminated section 42b, the operator can easily determine whether the operation instruction currently received by the operation switch 42 is a standard function or an extended function. This prevents the operator from unintentionally operating a standard function or an extended function when they make a mistake in operating the switch 53.

Specifically, the lighting unit 42b includes a first lighting unit 42b1 and a second lighting unit 42b2. The first lighting unit 42b1 and the second lighting unit 42b2 are light-generating devices that produce light. The first lighting unit 42b1 and the second lighting unit 42b2 are composed of one or more light sources (such as LEDs). The first lighting unit 42b1 is provided on one side of the operating surface 42a (the left-hand portion of the operating surface 42a) and indicates a standard function. The first lighting unit 42b1 lights up when the switch 53 is not operated and turns off when the switch 53 is operated.

The second illumination unit 42b2 is located on the other side of the operating surface 42a (the right-hand portion of the operating surface 42a) and indicates the extended function. The second illumination unit 42b2 is positioned with a gap between it and the first illumination unit 42b1 in the left-right direction relative to the operating surface 42a. The second illumination unit 42b2 is off when the switch 53 is not operated and illuminates when the switch 53 is operated. That is, when the switch 53 is not operated, the first illumination unit 42b1 illuminates and the second illumination unit 42b2 is off; when the switch 53 is operated, the first illumination unit 42b1 is off and the second illumination unit 42b2 illuminates.

Therefore, when transitioning from a state where the switch 53 is not being operated to a state where it is being operated, the illuminated light source among the lighting units 42b shifts from the first lighting unit 42b1 to the second lighting unit 42b2. As a result, the operator perceives that the illuminated portions of the first lighting unit 42b1 and the second lighting unit 42b2 are moving from one side (left) to the other side (right) of the operating surface 42a.

Furthermore, when transitioning from the operating state to the non-operating state of the switching device 53, the illuminated light source among the lighting units 42b shifts from the second lighting unit 42b2 to the first lighting unit 42b1. Therefore, the operator perceives that the illuminated portions of the first lighting unit 42b1 and the second lighting unit 42b2 are moving from one side (right) to the other side (left) of the operating surface 42a.

As shown in Figure 7, the first lighting section 42b1 and the second lighting section 42b2 are formed in a shape that follows the inner circumference of the operating surface 42a, and each forms part or all of the contour of the inner circumference of the operating surface 42a. The first lighting section 42b1 extends to the left from the center of the upper end of the operating surface 42a in the left-right direction, extends downward from the left end of the operating surface 42a, and then extends to the center of the lower end of the operating surface 42a in the left-right direction. In other words, the first lighting section 42b1 is formed in a roughly C-shape.

The second lighting section 42b2 extends to the right from the center of the upper end of the operating surface 42a in the left-right direction, then extends downward from the right end of the operating surface 42a, and finally extends to the center of the lower end of the operating surface 42a in the left-right direction. In other words, the second lighting section 42b2 is formed in a roughly inverted C shape.

The first and second lighting units 42b1 and 42b2 illuminate in a color that is, for example, white. However, the first and second lighting units 42b1 and 42b2 may illuminate in colors other than white. For example, in addition to white, the first and second lighting units 42b1 and 42b2 may illuminate in colors such as orange, yellow, blue, purple, and green.

As shown in Figure 7, the operating surface 42a of the tactile switch 42 may be provided with icons (standard icons) 42a1 that represent simplified or omitted functions (standard functions) defined in a predetermined standard table from the first to fourth modes. In this embodiment, the operating surface 42a of the switch 42 is provided with standard icons 42a1 corresponding to at least the third mode.

Furthermore, as with the third operation switch 42C and the fifth operation switch 42E, the operating surface 42a of the operation switch 42 may be provided with an icon (extended icon) 42a2 in addition to the standard icon 42a1, which represents a simplified or omitted version of the extended functions in the third mode. In such a case, it is preferable that the standard icon 42a1 is provided on one side of the operating surface 42a, and the extended icon 42a2 is provided on the other side of the operating surface 42a. Furthermore, it is preferable that the standard icon 42a1 is surrounded by a first illumination unit 42b1, and the extended icon 42a2 is surrounded by a second illumination unit 42b2.

Furthermore, although the above-described embodiment explained the case where the illuminating unit 42b is provided on an operating switch 42 which is a tactile switch, the illuminating unit 42b may also be provided on operating switches 42 other than tactile switches (the 8th operating switch 42H, the 9th operating switch 42I, and the 12th operating switch 42L).

The storage device 81 stores multiple extension tables (first to fourth extension tables) that associate operation signals with functions (extension functions), according to the operation mode. Each extension table assigns an extension function to the operation of at least one of the operation switches 42. In other words, the extension tables may also include operations of operation switches 42 to which no extension function is assigned.

In this embodiment, the extension table is primarily assigned to the operation of the third operation switch 42C, the fifth operation switch 42E, the eighth operation switch 42H, the ninth operation switch 42I, and the tenth operation switch 42J.

The control device 80, when the switch 53 is not being operated, retrieves a standard table corresponding to the operating mode of the operating lever 41 from the storage device 81. When the switch 53 is being operated, it retrieves an extended table corresponding to the operating mode of the operating lever 41 from the storage device 81.

In other words, if the third operation switch 42C, fifth operation switch 42E, eighth operation switch 42H, ninth operation switch 42I, and tenth operation switch 42J are operated while the switch 53 is being operated, the operating lever 41 will accept an operation instruction for the extended function instead of the standard function.

Furthermore, the operating lever 41 will not accept an operation instruction for the extended function if an operating switch 42 that is not assigned an extended function is operated during the period when the switching device 53 is being operated (for example, the first operating switch 42A, the second operating switch 42B, the fourth operating switch 42D, the sixth operating switch 42F, the seventh operating switch 42G, the eleventh operating switch 42K, the twelfth operating switch 42L, and the thirteenth operating switch 42M are operated). Therefore, the control device 80 will not control (execute) the function even if an operating switch 42 that is not assigned an extended function is operated during the period when the switching device 53 is being operated.

The following describes the case where the switching device 53 is operated and the operating lever 41 receives an operation instruction for the extended function via the operation of the operating switch 42.

When the operating lever 41 is in the first to fourth modes, the control device 80 acquires an extended table corresponding to the operating mode during the period when the switching device 53 is operated, and controls (executes) the function corresponding to the operation signal output from the operating lever 41. Specifically, when the operating lever 41 is in the first to fourth modes, and the switching device 53 is operated, if the third operating switch 42C is operated, it will accept an operation instruction for the eleventh function as an extended function instead of the ninth function (standard function). In other words, in the first to fourth extended tables, the operation signal output by the operating lever 41 when the third operating switch 42C is operated is associated with the eleventh function. Therefore, when the third operating switch 42C is operated during the period when the switching device 53 is operated in the first to fourth modes, the control device 80 switches the eleventh function between enabled and disabled according to the operation, and if the eleventh function is enabled, the rotational speed of the prime mover 6 is controlled to the second prime mover speed regardless of the operation of the accelerator pedal.

The operating lever 41 for the first to fourth modes, when the eighth operating switch 42H is operated while the switching device 53 is in operation, accepts an operation instruction for the 32nd or 33rd function (standard function) of the third auxiliary valve 32c as an extended function, instead of the 32nd or 33rd function (standard function) of the first auxiliary valve 32a. In other words, in the first to fourth extended tables, the operation signal output by the operating lever 41 when the eighth operating switch 42H is slid in one direction corresponds to the 32nd function of the third auxiliary valve 32c, and the operation signal output by the operating lever 41 when the eighth operating switch 42H is slid in the other direction corresponds to the 33rd function of the third auxiliary valve 32c.

The operating levers 41 for the first to fourth modes, when the ninth operating switch 42I is operated, accept an operation instruction for the 32nd or 33rd function (standard function) of the fourth auxiliary valve 32d as an extended function, instead of the 32nd or 33rd function (standard function) of the second auxiliary valve 32b, while the switching device 53 is being operated. In other words, in the first to fourth extended tables, the operation signal output by the operating lever 41 when the ninth operating switch 42I is slid in one direction corresponds to the 32nd function of the fourth auxiliary valve 32d, and the operation signal output by the operating lever 41 when the ninth operating switch 42I is slid in the other direction corresponds to the 33rd function of the fourth auxiliary valve 32d.

In the first and fourth modes, when the fifth operation switch 42E is operated, the operating lever 41 accepts an operation instruction for the 39th function as an extended function, instead of the 41st function (standard function), while the switching device 53 is being operated. In other words, in the first and fourth extended tables, the operation signal output by the operating lever 41 when the fifth operation switch 42E is operated is associated with the 39th function. Therefore, in the first and fourth modes, when the fifth operation switch 42E is operated while the switching device 53 is being operated, the control device 80 calculates the mass of the load in the bucket 35c according to that operation.

The operating lever 41 for the first and fourth modes, when the 10th operating switch 42J is operated while the switching device 53 is in operation, will accept an operation instruction for the 38th function as an extended function instead of the 40th function (standard function). In other words, in the first and fourth extended tables, the operation signal output by the operating lever 41 when the 10th operating switch 42J is operated is associated with the 38th function. Therefore, in the first and fourth modes, when the 10th operating switch 42J is operated while the switching device 53 is in operation, the control device 80 will execute an operation to remove the load from the bucket 35c by shaking the bucket 35c.

In the third mode, when the switch 53 is operated, the operating lever 41 receives an operation instruction for the 42nd function, which performs an exit operation, instead of the 42nd function (standard function) that performs an entry operation, when the 5th operating switch 42E is operated, as an extended function. In other words, in the third extended table, the operation signal output by the operating lever 41 when the 5th operating switch 42E is operated is associated with the 42nd function that performs the exit operation. Therefore, in the third mode, when the 5th operating switch 42E is operated while the switch 53 is operated, the control device 80 performs the exit operation in response to that operation.

The combinations of operation of the operation switch 42 and the operation instructions for the extended function in each of the operation modes described above are merely examples, and other combinations are also possible. For example, in the third mode, when the switching device 53 is operated, the operation lever 41 may accept an operation instruction to enable and disable automatic steering as an extended function, instead of the 43rd function (standard function), when the 5th operation switch 42E is operated.

Therefore, in modes 1 through 4, the operating lever 41, through the operation of multiple operating switches 42, accepts more operational instructions for work functions than for travel functions. In other words, during the period when the switching device 53 is operated, the operating lever 41 in modes 1 through 4 prioritizes accepting operational instructions for work functions over those for travel functions.

Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, while the display unit 43 indicates the operation of the switching device 53 or the lighting unit 42b changes its display mode when the switching device 53 is being operated, the display device 90 (in this embodiment, the first display device 90A) may also display the correspondence between the operation of the operation switch 42 and the content of the extended function that receives operation instructions via the operation of the operation switch 42 when the switching device 53 is being operated. This allows the operator to easily grasp the content of the extended function and to easily determine whether the function of the operation instruction currently received by the operation switch 42 is a standard function or an extended function.

Specifically, when the switching device 53 is operated, the first display device 90A retrieves an extended table corresponding to the operation mode from the storage device 81 and displays the operation display screen M1.

Figure 13 shows an example of the operation display screen M1 and the information display screen M2. As shown in Figure 13, the operation display screen M1 displays a schematic diagram 110 of the operation lever 41 including the operation switch 42, and a first assignment display section 111. The first assignment display section 111 is a display image that shows the functions (standard functions and extended functions) assigned to the operation switch 42 in a simplified and abbreviated form using icons. In the example shown in Figure 13, the first assignment display section 111 has a roughly rectangular image (first icon display section 112) that displays icon 112a, and a first arrow section 113 that points to the operation switch 42 corresponding to the icon 112a. The outer frame (first category display frame 112b) surrounding the icon 112a, which shows the outline of the first icon display section 112, is displayed in different colors according to the category to which the function corresponding to icon 112a of the first icon display section 112 is classified.

Specifically, the color of the first category display frame 112b can be displayed in orange, yellow, blue, purple, green, etc. The first category display frame 112b is displayed orange when the function corresponding to icon 112a belongs to categories 1 through 3. The first category display frame 112b is displayed yellow when the function corresponding to icon 112a belongs to category 4. The first category display frame 112b is displayed blue when the function corresponding to icon 112a belongs to categories 5 through 7. The first category display frame 112b is displayed purple when the function corresponding to icon 112a belongs to category 8. And, the first category display frame 112b is displayed green when the function corresponding to icon 112a belongs to category 8.

The example described shows how the first category display frame 112b is displayed in different colors depending on the category to which the function corresponding to icon 112a is classified. However, in addition to or instead of this, the first arrow section 113 may also be displayed in different colors according to the category.

Furthermore, the first icon display unit 112 has a first type display unit 114 that indicates whether the corresponding operation switch 42 is a tactile switch, a slide switch, or a dial switch. In this embodiment, the first type display unit 114 is a circular shape and is displayed in the upper right corner of the first icon display unit 112. The first type display unit 114 is displayed in green if the corresponding operation switch 42 is a tactile switch, in blue if the corresponding operation switch 42 is a slide switch, and in yellow if the corresponding operation switch 42 is a dial switch.

Furthermore, the icon 112a will not be displayed on the first assignment display unit 111 of the operation switch 42 to which no extension function is assigned.

Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the first display device 90A displays the operation display screen M1 during the period when the switching device 53 is being operated. However, the operation display screen M1 may be displayed at any time when a predetermined operation is performed.

Furthermore, in the example shown in Figure 13, the operation display screen M1 is displayed in a portion of the display area of the screen displayed by the first display device 90A. The other display areas show the gear shift indicator 115 (displaying the gear shift of the transmission 20), the vehicle speed indicator 116 (displaying the vehicle speed), and the hour meter 117 (displaying the operating time of the work vehicle 1). However, the display configuration is not limited to the example shown in Figure 13. In the following description, the screen including the gear shift indicator 115, vehicle speed indicator 116, and hour meter 117 displayed in the other display areas may be referred to as the information display screen M2. In other words, the first display device 90A displays both the operation display screen M1 and the information display screen M2.

Furthermore, the extension table may assign any extension function to an operation switch 42 that does not have an extension function assigned to it beforehand. In addition, the extension table may assign other extension functions to an operation switch 42 that already has an extension function assigned to it. In such cases, the display device 90 (in this embodiment, the second display device 90B) displays the first change screen M3 as shown in Figure 14 to accept input for the assignment of the extension function. Figure 14 shows an example of the first change screen M3.

Furthermore, as shown in Figure 2, the control device 80 has an update unit 80a. The update unit 80a consists of electrical and electronic circuits, a CPU, and programs stored in the control device 80. The update unit 80a (control device 80) updates (overwrites) the extended table stored in the storage device 81 based on the extended functions input received by the second display device 90B on the first change screen M3.

As shown in Figure 14, the first change screen M3 displays a schematic diagram 12A0 of the operating lever 41 including the operating switch 42, the second assignment display unit 121, the target switching unit 125, the first category selection unit 126, and the first function selection unit 128. The second assignment display unit 121 is a display image that shows the functions assigned to the operating switch 42 using simplified and abbreviated icons.

In the example shown in Figure 14, the second assignment display unit 121 includes a substantially rectangular image (second icon display unit 122) that displays the icon 122a, and a second arrow unit 123 that points to the operation switch 42 corresponding to the icon 122a. The outer frame (second category display frame 122b) surrounding the icon 122a, which shows the outline of the second icon display unit 122, may be displayed in different colors according to the category to which the function corresponding to the icon 122a of the second icon display unit 122 belongs, similar to the first category display frame 112b. In addition to this, or instead, the second arrow unit 123 may also be displayed in different colors according to the category.

Furthermore, the second icon display unit 122 has a second type display unit 124 that indicates whether the corresponding operation switch 42 is a tactile switch, a slide switch, or a dial switch. In this embodiment, the second type display unit 124 is a circular shape and is displayed in the upper right corner of the second icon display unit 122. The second type display unit 124 is displayed in green if the corresponding operation switch 42 is a tactile switch, in blue if the corresponding operation switch 42 is a slide switch, and in yellow if the corresponding operation switch 42 is a dial switch.

Furthermore, the icon 122a is not displayed on the second assignment display unit 121 for operation switches 42 to which an extended function has not been assigned. The operator selects the operation switch 42 to which they wish to assign a new extended function by selecting any of the second icon display units 122 (for example, by operating the fourth dial 48). As a result, the second display device 90B accepts the selection operation for a predetermined operation switch 42 from among the multiple operation switches 42.

The target switching unit 125 receives a selection operation for the operation mode of the extended table to be updated by the update unit 80a. In this embodiment, the target switching unit 125 receives a selection operation for one of the first to fourth modes. When the target switching unit 125 receives a selection operation for one of the first to fourth modes, the second display device 90B obtains the extended table corresponding to the selected operation mode from the storage device 81 and changes the display on the second assignment display unit 121 based on the extended table.

The first category selection unit 126 is a display image that accepts the selection of categories (Categories 1 to 9) that classify multiple functions related to the work vehicle 1. The first category selection unit 126 displays multiple roughly rectangular images (category display units 127) representing each category with an icon 127a. As shown in Figure 14, in this embodiment, the first category selection unit 126 displays multiple category display units 127 arranged horizontally on the screen.

The operator selects a category to which the desired function belongs by selecting any category display unit 127 (for example, by using the fourth dial 48). As a result, the second display device 90B accepts the selection operation for a predetermined category from among multiple categories.

The first function selection unit 128 is a display image that accepts the selection of a predetermined function from among multiple functions classified into the category selected by the first category selection unit 126. The first function selection unit 128 displays multiple roughly rectangular images (third icon display unit 129) represented by icons 129a that simplify or abbreviate each function.

As shown in Figure 14, in this embodiment, the first function selection unit 128 displays multiple third icon display units 129 arranged horizontally on the screen. This allows the operator to select any of the third icon display units 129 (for example, by operating the fourth dial 48) to assign a function to that unit. As a result, the second display device 90B accepts the selection of a predetermined function from among multiple functions as an extended function. The update unit 80a assigns the function corresponding to the selected third icon display unit 129 as an extended function to the operation switch 42 corresponding to the selected second icon display unit 122, and updates (overwrites) the extended table stored in the storage device 81.

The third icon display unit 129 also has a third type display unit 130 that indicates whether the corresponding function can be operated by a tactile switch, slide switch, or dial switch. In this embodiment, the third type display unit 130 is a circular shape and is displayed in the upper right corner of the third icon display unit 129. Similar to the second type display unit 124, the third type display unit 130 is displayed in green if the corresponding function can be operated by a tactile switch, in blue if the corresponding function can be operated by a slide switch, and in yellow if the corresponding function can be operated by a dial switch.

Furthermore, in the extension table corresponding to the mode selected by the target switching unit 125, a check mark is placed on the third type display unit 130 of the third icon display unit 129, which indicates a function already assigned to the operation of any of the operation switches 42, i.e., a function already assigned as an extension function.

Furthermore, while the above-described embodiment explained the case where the update unit 80a updates the extended table to change the assignment of functions (extension functions) to the operation of the operation switch 42, the update unit 80a may also change the assignment of functions (standard functions) to the operation of the operation switch 42 by updating the standard table. When the control device 80 changes the standard table, the target switching unit 125 accepts the selection of whether to update the extended table or the standard table.

Note that the first modification screen M3 shown in Figure 14 is merely an example, and the methods for assigning extension functions in that screen and extension table, and assigning standard functions in standard tables are not limited to the examples described above.

Furthermore, when the standard table corresponding to the operation mode is updated, the color of the first lighting unit 42b1 is changed according to the category to which the assigned function belongs. Also, when the extended table corresponding to the operation mode is updated, the color of the second lighting unit 42b2 is changed according to the category to which the assigned function belongs.

Specifically, if the standard table corresponding to the operation mode has not been updated from its initial setting (the state defined at the time of factory shipment), the first lighting unit 42b1 will illuminate in white. When the standard table corresponding to the operation mode is updated from its initial setting, the control device 80 changes the control signal output to the first lighting unit 42b1 based on the acquired standard table. If the switching device 53 is not operated and the first lighting unit 42b1 is to be illuminated, it will illuminate in the color corresponding to the category into which the updated standard function is classified.

In detail, the control device 80 illuminates the first indicator light 42b1 in orange if, in the updated standard table, the function corresponding to the operation switch 42 on which the first indicator light 42b1 is provided is in the first to third categories and the switch 53 is not operated. The control device 80 illuminates the first indicator light 42b1 in yellow if, in the updated standard table, the function corresponding to the operation switch 42 on which the first indicator light 42b1 is provided is in the fourth category and the switch 53 is not operated. The control device 80 illuminates the first indicator light 42b1 in blue if, in the updated standard table, the function corresponding to the operation switch 42 on which the first indicator light 42b1 is provided is in the fifth to seventh categories and the switch 53 is not operated. The control device 80 illuminates the first indicator light 42b1 in purple if, in the updated standard table, the function corresponding to the operation switch 42 on which the first indicator light 42b1 is provided is in the eighth category and the switch 53 is not operated. Furthermore, in the updated standard table, if the function corresponding to the operation switch 42 on which the first indicator light 42b1 is provided is in category 8, and the switch 53 is not operated, the control device 80 illuminates the first indicator light 42b1 in green.

Furthermore, if the extended table corresponding to the operation mode has not been updated from its initial settings, the second lighting unit 42b2 will illuminate in white. When the standard table corresponding to the operation mode is updated from its initial settings, the control device 80 changes the control signal output to the second lighting unit 42b2 based on the acquired standard table. If the switching device 53 is not operated and the second lighting unit 42b2 is to be illuminated, it will illuminate in the color corresponding to the category into which the updated extended function is classified.

Specifically, the control device 80 illuminates the second indicator light 42b2 in orange if, in the updated standard table, the function corresponding to the operation switch 42 on which the second indicator light 42b2 is provided falls into the first to third categories and the switch 53 is being operated. The control device 80 illuminates the second indicator light 42b2 in yellow if, in the updated standard table, the function corresponding to the operation switch 42 on which the second indicator light 42b2 is provided falls into the fourth category and the switch 53 is being operated. The control device 80 illuminates the second indicator light 42b2 in blue if, in the updated standard table, the function corresponding to the operation switch 42 on which the second indicator light 42b2 is provided falls into the fifth to seventh categories and the switch 53 is being operated. The control device 80 illuminates the second indicator light 42b2 in purple if, in the updated standard table, the function corresponding to the operation switch 42 on which the second indicator light 42b2 is provided is in category 8, and the switch 53 is being operated. Furthermore, the control device 80 illuminates the second indicator light 42b2 in green if, in the updated standard table, the function corresponding to the operation switch 42 on which the second indicator light 42b2 is provided is in category 8, and the switch 53 is being operated.

The update unit 80a can update the function assigned to the operating tool 49 to a different function. Specifically, as shown in Figure 15, the storage device 81 stores a table (operation table) that associates the operation signals of the operating tool 49 with functions, similar to the standard and extended tables of the operation switch 42. The control device 80 retrieves the operation table from the storage device 81 and controls (executes) the function based on the operation signals output from the operating tool 49 and the operation table. Figure 15 shows an example of an operation table. Furthermore, the update unit 80a (control device 80) updates (overwrites) the operation table stored in the storage device 81 based on the function for which the second display device 90B has received an update input.

First, using Figure 15, we will explain the assignment of functions to the operation of each operating tool 49 in the operation table before the update unit 80a updates it, i.e., the initial setting operation table (initial table). In the following explanation, the functions assigned to the operation signals output by the operating tools 49 in the initial table will be referred to as "initial functions," and the functions updated from the initial functions in the operation table updated by the update unit 80a will be referred to as "updated functions." In other words, each operating tool 49 is assigned a predetermined initial function from among multiple functions, and the update unit 80a updates the function assigned to the operating tool 49 to an updated function that is different from the initial function from among the multiple functions.

Specifically, in the initial table, the operation signal output by the first operating tool 49A when it is operated is associated with the 17th function. When the first operating tool 49A is operated, it receives an operation instruction for the 17th function. Therefore, if the update unit 80a has not updated the initial table, when the first operating tool 49A is operated, the control device 80 controls the front gear shift unit 20f in response to the operation and switches to the 4WD constant speed state.

In the initial table, the operation signal output by the second operating tool 49B when it is operated is associated with the 18th function. When the second operating tool 49B is operated, it receives an operation instruction for the 18th function. Therefore, if the update unit 80a has not updated the initial table, when the second operating tool 49B is operated, the control device 80 switches the 18th function between enabled and disabled in response to the operation. When the 18th function is enabled, the control device 80 controls the front transmission unit 20f based on the vehicle speed and the steering angle of the steering device to switch between 2WD and 4WD constant speed states.

In the initial table, the operation signal output by the third operating tool 49C when it is operated is associated with the 20th function. When the third operating tool 49C is operated, it receives an operation instruction for the 20th function. Therefore, if the update unit 80a has not updated the initial table, when the third operating tool 49C is operated, the control device 80 fixes (directly connects) the rear wheel differential device 21R based on the operator's operation.

In the initial table, the operation signal output by the fourth operating tool 49D when it is operated is associated with the 13th function. When the fourth operating tool 49D is operated, it receives an operation instruction for the 13th function. Therefore, if the update unit 80a has not updated the initial table, when the fourth operating tool 49D is operated, the control device 80 switches the 13th function between enabled and disabled in response to the operation. If the 13th function is enabled, the control device 80 controls the rotational speed of the prime mover 6 based on the vehicle speed and the load on the prime mover 6.

In the initial table, when the fifth operating tool 49E is operated, the operation signal output by the fifth operating tool 49E is not associated with a function. Until the operation table is updated by the update unit 80a and a function is associated with the operation signal output by the fifth operating tool 49E, the fifth operating tool 49E will not accept operation instructions for a function even if it is operated. Once the operation table is updated by the update unit 80a and a function is associated with the operation signal output by the fifth operating tool 49E, the fifth operating tool 49E will accept operation instructions for the associated function when it is operated.

In the initial table, the operation signal output by the sixth operating tool 49F when it is operated is associated with the seventh function. When the sixth operating tool 49F is operated, it receives an operation instruction for the seventh function. Therefore, if the update unit 80a has not updated the initial table, when the seventh operating tool 49G is operated, the control device 80 switches the seventh function between enabled and disabled in response to the operation. If the seventh function is enabled, and the brake pedal is operated, causing the vehicle speed to fall below a predetermined level, the hydraulic clutch of the shuttle unit 20d is switched to the neutral position, interrupting the transmission of power to the running gear 3.

In the initial table, the operation signal output by the seventh operating tool 49G when it is operated is associated with the eighth function. When the seventh operating tool 49G is operated, it receives an operation instruction for the eighth function. Therefore, if the update unit 80a has not updated the initial table, when the eighth operating tool 49H is operated, the control device 80 switches the eighth function between enabled and disabled in response to the operation. If the eighth function is enabled, the control of the transmission 20 is changed based on the load of the prime mover 6.

In the initial table, the operation signal output by the eighth operating tool 49H when it is operated is associated with the 24th function. When the eighth operating tool 49H is operated, it receives an operation instruction for the 24th function. Therefore, if the update unit 80a has not updated the initial table, when the eighth operating tool 49H is operated, the control device 80 switches the 24th function between enabled and disabled in response to the operation. When the 24th function is enabled, the control device 80 controls the PTO power transmission unit 20e according to the height of the work device 10 to switch the power transmission to the PTO shaft 22.

In the initial table, the operation signal output by the ninth operating tool 49I when it is operated is associated with the 19th function. When the ninth operating tool 49I is operated, it receives an operation instruction for the 19th function. Therefore, if the update unit 80a has not updated the initial table, when the ninth operating tool 49I is operated, the control device 80 controls the front gear shift unit 20f in response to the operation and switches to the 4WD acceleration state.

In the initial table, when the 10th operating tool 49J is operated, the operation signal output by the 10th operating tool 49J is not associated with a function. Until the operation table is updated by the update unit 80a and a function is associated with the operation signal output by the 10th operating tool 49J, the 10th operating tool 49J will not accept operation instructions for a function even when operated. Once the operation table is updated by the update unit 80a and a function is associated with the operation signal output by the 10th operating tool 49J, the 10th operating tool 49J will accept operation instructions for the associated function when operated.

When a predetermined operation is performed on the display device 90 (in this embodiment, the second display device 90B), the second display device 90B displays a second change screen M4 as shown in Figure 16 and accepts input for the assignment of the update function. Figure 16 is a diagram showing an example of the second change screen M4. As shown in Figure 16, the second change screen M4 displays a schematic diagram 140 of the operating tool 49, a third assignment display unit 141, a second category selection unit 144, and a second function selection unit 146. The third assignment display unit 141 is a display image that displays the functions assigned to the operating tool 49 in a simplified and abbreviated form using icons. In the example shown in Figure 16, the third assignment display unit 141 has a substantially rectangular image (fourth icon display unit 142) that displays an icon 142a, and a third arrow unit 143 that points to the operating tool 49 corresponding to the icon 142a. The outline of the fourth icon display section 142 is shown. The outer frame surrounding the icon 142a (third category display frame 142b) may be displayed in different colors according to the category to which the function corresponding to the icon 142a of the fourth icon display section 142 is classified, similar to the first category display frame 112b. In addition, or instead of this, the third arrow section 143 may also be displayed in different colors according to the category.

Furthermore, the icon 142a is not displayed on the third assignment display unit 141 for operating tools 49 that are not assigned the update function (for example, the fifth operating tool 49E and the tenth operating tool 49J). The operator selects the operating tool 49 to which they wish to assign the new function (update function) by selecting any of the fourth icon display units 142 (for example, by operating the fourth dial 48). As a result, the second display device 90B accepts the selection operation for a predetermined operating tool 49 from among the multiple operating tools 49.

The second category selection unit 144 is a display image that accepts the selection of categories (Categories 1 to 9) that classify multiple functions related to the work vehicle 1. The second category selection unit 144 displays multiple roughly rectangular images (category display units 145) that represent each category with an icon 145a. As shown in Figure 16, in this embodiment, the second category selection unit 144 displays multiple category display units 145 arranged horizontally on the screen. The operator selects the category to which the desired function is classified by performing a selection operation (for example, using the fourth dial 48) on any category display unit 145. As a result, the second display device 90B accepts the selection operation for a predetermined category from among the multiple categories.

The second function selection unit 146 is a display image that accepts the selection of a predetermined function from among multiple functions classified into the category selected by the second category selection unit 144. The second function selection unit 146 displays multiple roughly rectangular images (fifth icon display unit 147) representing each function with an icon 147a. As shown in Figure 16, in this embodiment, the second function selection unit 146 displays multiple fifth icon display units 147 arranged horizontally on the screen.

In this embodiment, since the operating tool 49 is a tactile switch, the functions displayed by the second function selection unit 146 are at least the functions that can be operated with the tactile switch from among the multiple functions classified into the category selected by the second category selection unit 144. The second function selection unit 146 blacks out or hides functions that cannot be operated with the tactile switch from among the multiple functions classified into the category selected by the second category selection unit 144.

Furthermore, the fifth icon display unit 147 is provided with a mark 148 indicating whether a function has already been assigned to the operation of any of the operating tools 49 in the operation table, i.e., whether it has already been assigned as an initial function or an update function. The mark 148 is a circular shape, and a check mark is placed on the fifth icon display unit 147 for functions that have already been assigned as an initial function or an update function.

The operator selects the fifth icon display unit 147 for the desired function by performing a selection operation (for example, using the fourth dial 48). As a result, the second display device 90B accepts the selection operation for a predetermined function from among multiple functions as an update function. The update unit 80a assigns the function corresponding to the selected fifth icon display unit 147 as an update function to the operating tool 49 corresponding to the selected fifth icon display unit 147, and updates (overwrites) the operation table stored in the storage device 81.

Note that the second change screen M4 shown in Figure 16 is merely an example, and the method of assigning update functions to that screen and operation table is not limited to the example described above.

As shown in Figure 9, the operating device 49 is provided with an icon 49a1 indicating the initial function. Specifically, the icon 49a1 is a simplified and abbreviated representation of the initial function and is located in the center of the operating surface 49a of the operating device 49. Furthermore, as shown in Figures 2 and 9, the operating device 49 has a first indicator lamp 49b1, a second indicator lamp 49b2, and a third indicator lamp 49b3.

The first indicator lamp 49b1, the second indicator lamp 49b2, and the third indicator lamp 49b3 are light-generating devices that produce light. The first indicator lamp 49b1, the second indicator lamp 49b2, and the third indicator lamp 49b3 are composed of one or more light sources (LEDs, etc.). In this embodiment, the control device 80 illuminates the first indicator lamp 49b1, the second indicator lamp 49b2, and the third indicator lamp 49b3 during the period when operation instructions can be received, in other words, during the period when the work vehicle 1 is running. The control device 80 may also turn off the first indicator lamp 49b1, the second indicator lamp 49b2, and the third indicator lamp 49b3 if an error occurs in the function corresponding to the operating tool 49, or if the execution of a function is restricted depending on the operating mode of the operating lever 41.

The following describes the colors that illuminate the first indicator lamp 49b1, the second indicator lamp 49b2, and the third indicator lamp 49b3.

The first indicator lamp 49b1 changes its display mode according to the category to which the function (updated function) updated by the update unit 80a belongs. The first indicator lamp 49b1 illuminates in different colors according to the category to which the function updated by the update unit 80a belongs. Therefore, the operator can easily understand the classification (category) of the function updated by the update unit 80a. This helps to suppress erroneous operation even when the function that the operating device 49 receives operation instructions from has been updated.

Specifically, when the functions of the operation table stored in the memory device 81 have not been updated, the first indicator lamp 49b1 of the operating device 49, to which the operation signal and initial function are associated, lights up in white. When the operation table is updated, the control device 80 changes the control signal output to the first indicator lamp 49b1 based on the acquired updated operation table, and illuminates the first indicator lamp 49b1 of the operating device 49, to which the operation signal and updated function are associated, in a color corresponding to the category into which the updated standard function is classified.

In detail, the control device 80 illuminates the first indicator lamp 49b1 in orange if the update function corresponding to the operating tool 49 equipped with the first indicator lamp 49b1 is in the first to third category in the updated operation table. The control device 80 illuminates the first indicator lamp 49b1 in yellow if the update function corresponding to the operating tool 49 equipped with the first indicator lamp 49b1 is in the fourth category in the updated operation table. The control device 80 illuminates the first indicator lamp 49b1 in blue if the update function corresponding to the operating tool 49 equipped with the first indicator lamp 49b1 is in the fifth to seventh category in the updated operation table. The control device 80 illuminates the first indicator lamp 49b1 in purple if the function corresponding to the operating tool 49 equipped with the first indicator lamp 49b1 is in the eighth category in the updated operation table. Furthermore, in the updated operation table, if the update function corresponding to the operating tool 49 equipped with the first indicator lamp 49b1 is in category 8, the control device 80 illuminates the first indicator lamp 49b1 in green.

The second indicator lamp 49b2 changes its display depending on whether the function assigned to the operating tool 49 is enabled or disabled. Specifically, the control device 80 changes the control signal output to the second indicator lamp 49b2 of the operating tool 49 depending on whether the function assigned to the operating tool 49 is enabled or disabled. In this embodiment, when the function for receiving operation instructions is disabled, the second indicator lamp 49b2 lights up white. On the other hand, when the function for receiving operation instructions is enabled, the second indicator lamp 49b2 lights up green. Furthermore, if the same function is assigned to another operating tool 49 or another operating member (not limited to a physical switch, but including a display image displayed on the display device 90 that accepts operation), and this function becomes enabled by operating the other operating tool 49, the display of the second indicator lamp 49b2 of the operating tool 49 may be changed.

The third indicator lamp 49b3 illuminates in white. In this embodiment, two third indicator lamps 49b3 are provided on the operating device 49, and these two third indicator lamps 49b3 do not illuminate in any color other than white. The control device 80 may illuminate or flash the third indicator lamp 49b3 in red or another color if an error occurs in the function corresponding to the operating device 49 on which the third indicator lamp 49b3 is provided.

Next, the arrangement and shape of the first indicator lamp 49b1, the second indicator lamp 49b2, and the third indicator lamp 49b3 will be described. The first indicator lamp 49b1, the second indicator lamp 49b2, and the third indicator lamp 49b3 are positioned to surround the icon 49a1. Furthermore, the first indicator lamp 49b1, the second indicator lamp 49b2, and the third indicator lamp 49b3 are formed to follow the shape of the inner circumference of the operating surface 49a of the operating tool 49, each forming part or all of the inner contour of the operating surface 49a. This allows the operator to easily determine whether the function is enabled or disabled by checking the second indicator lamp 49b2, and also to more easily and reliably recognize the position of the operating tool 49 using the first indicator lamp 49b1, the second indicator lamp 49b2, and the third indicator lamp 49b3.

Specifically, the first indicator lamp 49b1, the second indicator lamp 49b2, and the third indicator lamp 49b3 are positioned at the corners of the operating surface 49a. The first indicator lamp 49b1 is positioned at the front left of the operating surface 49a, and the second indicator lamp 49b2 is positioned at the front right of the operating surface 49a. The third indicator lamp 49b3 is positioned at the rear left and rear right of the operating surface 49a.

The first indicator lamp 49b1 extends to the left from the center of the front end of the operating surface 49a in the left-right direction, reaching the center of the left end of the operating surface 49a in the front-rear direction. That is, the first indicator lamp 49b1 is formed in a roughly inverted L-shape.

The second indicator lamp 49b2 extends to the right from the center of the front end of the operating surface 49a in the left-right direction, reaching the center of the right end of the operating surface 49a in the front-rear direction. That is, the second indicator lamp 49b2 is formed in a roughly L-shape.

The third indicator lamp 49b3, located at the left rear of the operating surface 49a, extends to the left from the center of the rear end of the operating surface 49a in the left-right direction, reaching the center of the left end of the operating surface 49a in the front-rear direction. That is, the third indicator lamp 49b3, located at the left rear of the operating surface 49a, is formed in a roughly L-shape.

The third indicator lamp 49b3, located to the right rear of the operating surface 49a, extends to the right from the center in the left-right direction of the rear end of the operating surface 49a, reaching the center in the front-rear direction of the right end of the operating surface 49a. That is, the third indicator lamp 49b3, located to the right rear of the operating surface 49a, is formed in a roughly inverted L-shape.

In this embodiment, the first indicator lamp 49b1, the second indicator lamp 49b2, and the third indicator lamp 49b3 are each spaced apart. Specifically, the right end of the first indicator lamp 49b1 and the left end of the second indicator lamp 49b2 are spaced apart in the left-right direction. The rear end of the first indicator lamp 49b1 and the front end of the left rear third indicator lamp 49b3 are spaced apart in the front-rear direction. The rear end of the second indicator lamp 49b2 and the front end of the right rear third indicator lamp 49b3 are spaced apart in the front-rear direction. The right end of the left rear third indicator lamp 49b3 and the left end of the right rear third indicator lamp 49b3 are spaced apart in the left-right direction.

In the embodiment described above, the first indicator lamp 49b1, the second indicator lamp 49b2, and the third indicator lamp 49b3 are arranged with a gap between them. However, as long as the indications (on and off, etc.) of the first indicator lamp 49b1, the second indicator lamp 49b2, and the third indicator lamp 49b3 can be distinguished, they may be arranged close together.

Furthermore, the dial 44 can accept commands to change the control parameters of each function. In other words, the dial 44 can accept operation instructions for functions that change the parameters of each function, such as the 10th function which changes the first prime mover speed of the 9th function, or the 12th function which changes the second prime mover speed of the 11th function. Based on the operation signals output from the dial 44, the control device 80 changes the control parameters of each function stored in the storage device 81.

The first dial (first function operating device) 45 is an operating member (a physical dial switch in this embodiment) for selecting multiple functions by rotation. The function options (candidate functions) that can be selected using the first dial 45 are pre-stored in the storage device 81. When the first dial 45 is operated, the control device 80 acquires the operation signal output from the first dial 45 and displays the third change screen M5 on the display device 90 (first display device 90A in this embodiment), as shown in Figure 17. Figure 17 shows an example of the third change screen M5 and the information display screen M2. As shown in Figure 17, the first display device 90A displays the third change screen M5 together with the information display screen M2, similar to the operation display screen M1. The third change screen M5 displays the functions that can be selected using the first dial 45. The display device 90 displays the selected function with a different display format from the other functions.

As shown in Figure 17, the third change screen M5 displays a selection function display unit 150 and a candidate function display unit 151. The selection function display unit 150 is an image that displays a function selected by the first dial 45 as an icon. The candidate function display unit 151 is an image that displays other functions as icons. In the example shown in Figure 17, the candidate function display units 151 are located on one side (left) and the other side (right) of the selection function display unit 150. The third change screen M5 displays a predetermined function from among the functions that can be selected by the first dial 45 on the selection function display unit 150, and in response to the operation of the first dial 45, it displays a function displayed by the candidate function display unit 151 in place of the function displayed on the selection function display unit 150. That is, the functions displayed on the selection function display unit 150 are sequentially switched in response to the operation of the first dial 45. Figure 17 shows an example of the third change screen M5, indicating that the 27th function has been selected.

In the example of the third change screen M5 shown in Figure 17, candidate function display units 151 are arranged on one side (left) and the other side (right) of the selection function display unit 150. The candidate function display units 151 display all functions other than the one displayed by the selection function display unit 150, which can be selected using the first dial 45. However, it is sufficient to display at least one other function, and the display format is not limited to the example shown in Figure 17.

The second dial (second function operating device) 46 is an operating member (a physical dial switch in this embodiment) that changes the control parameters of the function selected by the first dial 45 by rotation. The display device 90 (first display device 90A) can display the control parameters changed by the second dial 46. Specifically, when the first display device 90A is displaying the third change screen M5, and the second dial 46 is operated, the control device 80 confirms the function selected by the operation of the first dial 45 as the function whose parameters will be changed. Once the function whose parameters will be changed is confirmed, as shown in Figure 18, the first display device 90A transitions its display from the third change screen M5 to the fourth change screen M6, which displays the control parameters. Figure 18 shows an example of the fourth change screen M6 and the information display screen M2. As shown in Figure 18, the first display device 90A displays the fourth change screen M6 together with the information display screen M2, similar to the operation display screen M1 and the third change screen M5.

As shown in Figure 18, the fourth change screen M6 includes a target function display unit 160 and a parameter display unit 161. The target function display unit 160 is an image showing the function whose parameters are to be changed using icons. The parameter display unit 161 is an image that displays candidate parameters (candidate parameters) after the change, in response to the operation of the second dial 46. In this embodiment, the parameter display unit 161 displays the candidate parameters numerically. Note that the parameter display unit 161 only needs to be able to display the candidate parameters; its display format is not limited to numerical values, and may, for example, be a bar-shaped meter whose length changes according to the size of the candidate parameter.

When the second dial 46 is operated, the parameter display unit 161 changes the display format of the candidate parameters in accordance with the operation. In the example shown in Figure 18, the parameter display unit 161 displays the candidate parameter values in a larger size when the second dial 46 is rotated in one direction (clockwise), and displays the candidate parameter values in a smaller size when it is rotated in the other direction (counterclockwise).

The control device 80 confirms the candidate parameters displayed on the parameter display unit 161 when a predetermined time has elapsed since the second dial 46 was operated, or when the first dial 45 is operated, etc. Based on the confirmed candidate parameters, the control device 80 changes the control parameters of the function stored in the storage device 81 and displayed on the target function display unit 160.

Furthermore, the method for determining the candidate parameters displayed by the parameter display unit 161 is not limited to the method described above. For example, if the second dial 46 accepts a press operation, the control device 80 may determine the candidate parameters in response to the press operation of the second dial 46. Also, if the operating device 40 includes operating members other than the first dial 45 and the second dial 46, the control device 80 may determine the candidate parameters in response to the operation of those operating members.

With the above configuration, the operator can quickly change the function parameters by using the first dial 45 and the second dial 46 interchangeably.

Next, the arrangement of the first dial 45 and the second dial 46 will be described. As shown in Figures 6 and 8, the axial direction of the rotation axis L1 of the first dial 45 is different from the axial direction of the rotation axis L2 of the second dial 46. Furthermore, the axial direction of the rotation axis L1 of the first dial 45 is perpendicular to the axial direction of the rotation axis L2 of the second dial 46. Therefore, the operator can easily distinguish which dial 44 to operate to select a function and which to operate a parameter. This enables rapid operation of the function parameters of the work vehicle 1.

In this embodiment, the axis of rotation of the first dial 45, L1, extends in the vertical direction, and the axis of rotation of the second dial 46, L2, extends approximately in the direction of the vehicle width. The operator can rotate the first dial 45 clockwise or counterclockwise around its vertical axis. The operator can also rotate the second dial 46 forward or backward around its axis in the vehicle width direction.

Furthermore, the first dial 45 and the second dial 46 are positioned adjacent to each other in the front-to-back direction. Therefore, the operator can quickly operate the second dial 46 by moving their wrist while maintaining the same posture used to operate the first dial 45.

Furthermore, the axial direction and position of the rotation axis L1 of the first dial 45, and the axial direction and position of the rotation axis L2 of the second dial 46, are not limited to the directions and positions described above. For example, the first dial 45 and the second dial 46 may be arranged adjacent to each other in the vehicle width direction.

Furthermore, the control device 80 may have a modification unit 80b, which changes the selection of functions (candidate functions) that can be selected using the first dial 45 from among multiple functions. The modification unit 80b is composed of electrical and electronic circuits, a CPU, and programs stored in the control device 80. The update unit 80a (control device 80) updates (overwrites) the candidate functions stored in the storage device 81 based on the function input received by the display device 90 (in this embodiment, the second display device 90B) on the fifth modification screen M7.

When a predetermined operation is performed on the display device 90 (in this embodiment, the second display device 90B), the second display device 90B displays the fifth change screen M7 as shown in Figure 19 and accepts the input for selecting a candidate function. Figure 19 is a diagram showing an example of the fifth change screen M7. As shown in Figure 19, the fifth change screen M7 displays a selection display unit 170, a third category selection unit 173, and a third function selection unit 175. The selection display unit 170 is a display image that displays the function selected as a candidate function using an icon 171a that is represented in a simplified or abbreviated form. When the fifth change screen M7 is displayed, the selection display unit 170 first displays the candidate functions displayed in the selection function display unit 150 and the candidate functions displayed in the candidate function display unit 151, respectively. In the example shown in Figure 19, it has a roughly rectangular image (sixth icon display unit 171) that displays the icon 171a. The diagram shows the external shape of the sixth icon display unit 171. The outer frame surrounding the icon 171a (the fourth category display frame 171b) may be displayed in different colors depending on the category to which the function corresponding to the icon 171a of the sixth icon display unit 171 is classified, similar to the first category display frame 112b.

Furthermore, the icon 171a will not be displayed in the sixth icon display unit 171 if no candidate function has been selected. Also, in the example shown in Figure 19, the fifth change screen M7 can display five sixth icon display units 171 in the selection display unit 170 and accept selection input for five candidate functions. However, the number of sixth icon display units 171, i.e., the number of candidate functions, can be added or deleted as appropriate by operating the add button 172, etc., on the fifth change screen M7.

The operator selects any of the sixth icon display units 171 (for example, by using the fourth dial 48) and chooses the candidate function they wish to replace with a new candidate function.

The third category selection unit 173 is a display image that accepts the selection of categories (Categories 1 to 9) that classify multiple functions related to the work vehicle 1. The third category selection unit 173 displays multiple roughly rectangular images (category display units 174) that represent each category with an icon 174a. As shown in Figure 19, in this embodiment, the third category selection unit 173 displays multiple category display units 174 arranged horizontally on the screen. The operator selects the category to which the desired function is classified by performing a selection operation (for example, using the fourth dial 48) on any category display unit 174. As a result, the second display device 90B accepts the selection operation for a predetermined category from among the multiple categories.

The third function selection unit 175 is a display image that accepts the selection of a predetermined function from among multiple functions classified into the category selected by the third category selection unit 173. The third function selection unit 175 displays multiple roughly rectangular images (seventh icon display unit 176) representing each function with an icon 176a. As shown in Figure 19, in this embodiment, the third function selection unit 175 displays multiple seventh icon display units 176 arranged horizontally on the screen. The multiple seventh icon display units 176 display the third function, sixth function, tenth function, twelfth function, twenty-fifth to twenty-eighth functions, etc., using icons 176a.

The operator selects the seventh icon display unit 176 corresponding to the desired function by performing a selection operation (for example, using the fourth dial 48). As a result, the second display device 90B accepts the selection operation for a predetermined function from among multiple functions. The modification unit 80b updates (overwrites) the candidate function stored in the storage device 81, replacing the function corresponding to the selected sixth icon display unit 171 with the function corresponding to the selected seventh icon display unit 176.

Note that the fifth modification screen M7 shown in Figure 19 is merely an example, and the screen and the method of assigning candidate functions are not limited to the example described above.

Furthermore, although the above-described embodiment explained the case where both the first function operating device 45 and the second function operating device 46 are physical dial switches, it is sufficient that at least the second function operating device 46 is a dial switch, and the first function operating device 45 is not limited to a dial switch. For example, the first function operating device 45 may be an operating device for selecting multiple functions, and may consist of one or more tactile switches, or other operating devices. For example, if the display device (display screen) 90 is a touch panel, the first function operating device 45 may be a display image displayed on the display screen (display device) 90 that accepts selection operations.

For example, the selection function display unit 150 and the candidate function display unit 151 shown in Figure 17 also serve as the first function operating tool 45. When the selection function display unit 150 (or its vicinity, etc.) is swept to either the left or right, the third change screen M5, in response to the swipe operation, displays the function shown on the candidate function display unit 151 on the selection function display unit 150, instead of the function currently displayed on the selection function display unit 150.

Furthermore, while the above-described embodiment explained the case where the operation mode is switched by operating the selection tool 51, the switching of the operation mode is not limited to the selection operation by the selection tool 51. For example, the operation mode may be switched by modifying the operation lever 41 instead of, or in addition to, operating the selection tool 51, and the operation mode may be switched based on that modification. This allows for various controls of the work vehicle 1 to be performed by changing the shape of the switching unit 55, even with a single operation lever 41. Therefore, the operator does not need to change their grip on the operation lever 41 each time the environment in which the work vehicle 1 is traveling or the work content changes, thus preventing the operation of the wrong switch or lever.

In such a case, as shown in the modified example in Figure 20, the operating lever 41 has a switching section 55. Figure 20 is a view of the operating lever 41 in the modified example, as seen from the driver's seat 4.

As shown in Figure 20, the switching section 55 is a member that connects the gripping section 41b and the base end section 41a. The switching section 55 switches between a first form 55A in which the angle of the gripping section 41b with respect to the base end section 41a (for example, the angle formed by a reference line L3 extending in the extension direction of the base end section 41a as shown in Figure 20 and a reference line L4 extending in the extension direction of the gripping section 41b) is set to a first angle θ1, and a second form 55B in which the angle is set to a second angle θ2, which is different from the first angle θ1. The second angle θ2 is a larger angle than the first angle θ1. When the switching section 55 is in the first form 55A, the gripping section 41b extends from the switching section 55 along the extension direction of the base end section 41a, and the operating lever 41 extends in a substantially straight line. On the other hand, when the switching section 55 is in the second form 55B, the gripping section 41b extends inward or outward in the width direction from the switching section 55, and the operating lever 41 is bent at an intermediate point.

More specifically, as shown in Figure 20, the switching unit 55 includes a first bracket 56, a second bracket 57, a pivot shaft 58, and a shape-maintaining unit 59. As shown in Figure 21, the switching unit 55 also includes a shape-detection unit 60.

The first bracket 56 is a portion provided at the base end of the gripping portion 41b. The second bracket 57 is a portion provided at the tip of the base end 41a and rotatably supports the first bracket 56 via a pivot shaft 58. The pivot shaft 58 extends in the front-rear direction. Through holes are formed in the first bracket 56 and the second bracket 57 through which the pivot shaft 58 is inserted. By rotating the gripping portion 41b around the pivot shaft 58, the angle of the gripping portion 41b relative to the base end 41a can be changed.

The shape-maintaining section 59 is a member that maintains the states of the first form 55A and the second form 55B. The shape-maintaining section 59 has a locking member 59a and is attached to the second bracket 57. The locking member 59a is composed of a locking ball and maintains the states of the first form 55A and the second form 55B by engaging with a locking recess 56a formed in the first bracket 56. Specifically, the locking recess 56a is formed at a location on the first bracket 56 where the locking member 59a abuts when the operating mode is the first form 55A (first recess 56a1), and at a location on the first bracket 56 where the locking member 59a abuts when the operating mode is the second form 55B (second recess 56a2). Therefore, when the operator operates the operating lever 41 to the first form 55A, the locking member 59a engages with the first recess 56a1. Furthermore, when the operator rotates the gripping portion 41b around the pivot axis 58 to change from the first form 55A to the second form 55B, the locking member 59a is released from the first recess 56a1 and engages with the second recess 56a2. As a result, the form-maintaining portion 59 can maintain the states of both the first form 55A and the second form 55B, respectively.

Furthermore, the shape-maintaining unit 59 only needs to be able to maintain the states of the first form 55A and the second form 55B, respectively, and its structure is not limited to the structure described above.

The shape detection unit 60 is a detection sensor that detects whether the operating lever 41 is in the first form 55A or the second form 55B. The shape detection unit 60 is composed of, for example, a limit switch, and detects the position of the gripping portion 41b relative to the base end portion 41a to detect whether the operating lever 41 is in the first form 55A or the second form 55B. The shape detection unit 60 is connected to the control device 80 and outputs a detection signal to the control device 80. As a result, the control device 80 switches the operating lever 41 to the first mode if the operating lever 41 is in the first form 55A, and switches the operating lever 41 to the second mode if the operating lever 41 is in the second form 55B. As a result, the operating lever 41 can change the function of the work vehicle 1 that receives operation instructions depending on whether the switching portion 55 is in the first form 55A or the second form 55B. Furthermore, the operating lever 41 can change the function of the work vehicle 1, which receives operation instructions, by a swinging motion depending on whether the switching unit 55 is in the first form 55A or the second form 55B.

Furthermore, when the operating lever 41 is deformed and the operating mode is switched based on that deformation, it is sufficient that the operating lever 41 can be switched to at least the first mode and the second mode. In addition to the first and second modes, when switching to other modes such as the third or fourth mode, the selection device 51 can be used to switch between the first and fourth modes, and between the second and third modes.

In other words, when the operating lever 41 is in the first configuration 55A, the operating lever 41 can be switched to either the first mode or the fourth mode, and the switching between the first and fourth modes is performed based on the operation of the selection device 51. On the other hand, when the operating lever 41 is in the second configuration 55B, the operating lever 41 can be switched to either the second mode or the third mode, and the switching between the second and third modes is performed based on the operation of the selection device 51.

Furthermore, in this modified example, when the operating lever 41 is switched only between the first and second modes, the standard map and extended map of the third mode in the above-described embodiment may be applied as the standard map and extended map of the second mode.

Therefore, the operating lever 41 can change the function of the work vehicle 1 that receives operation instructions via the operation switch 42, depending on whether the switching unit 55 is in the first configuration 55A or the second configuration 55B. Furthermore, as described above, the display unit 43 changes its display format according to the operation mode, so it changes its display format depending on whether the switching unit 55 is in the first configuration 55A or the second configuration 55B. More specifically, the display unit 43 changes its color depending on whether the switching unit 55 is in the first configuration 55A or the second configuration 55B.

The following effects are achieved by the operation device 40 of the work vehicle 1, the support device 100 of the work vehicle 1, and the work vehicle 1 itself.

The operating device 40 of the work vehicle 1 comprises an operating lever 41 for operating various functions of the work vehicle 1, and a selection tool 51 for selecting the operating mode of the operating lever 41. The operating lever 41 changes the function of the work vehicle 1 that receives operation instructions according to the operating mode selected by the selection tool 51. With this configuration, even with a single operating lever 41, various functions of the work vehicle 1 can be operated by switching the operating mode using the selection tool 51. This eliminates the need for the operator to change their grip on the operating lever 41 each time the environment in which the work vehicle 1 is operating or the work content changes, thus preventing the operation of incorrect switches or levers. Furthermore, since there is no need to increase the number of operating levers 41 according to the type of function of the work vehicle 1, the number of operating members on the operating device 40 can be reduced, improving the overall operability of the operating device 40 and preventing the operating lever 41 from obstructing the operator's view.

Furthermore, the operating lever 41 is supported so as to be able to swing freely, and the function of the work vehicle 1 that receives operation instructions is changed by the swinging operation according to the operation mode selected by the selection device 51. With the above configuration, by selecting the operation mode with the selection device 51, the function of receiving operation instructions by the swinging operation of the operating lever 41 can be arbitrarily changed. This reduces the number of operating members on the operating device 40, not only ensuring sufficient installation space for the operating lever 41, but also suppressing interference between operating members and other operating members, thereby improving the overall operability of the operating device 40.

Furthermore, the multiple operating modes include a first mode for operating at least the work-related functions of the work vehicle 1, and a second mode for operating at least the driving functions of the work vehicle 1. In the first mode, the operating lever 41 receives operation instructions for the work functions by a swinging motion, and in the second mode, the operating lever 41 receives operation instructions for the driving functions by a swinging motion. With this configuration, the operator can perform operations continuously using the operating lever 41 without having to change their grip on the lever 41 when operating work functions and when operating driving functions.

Furthermore, the operating lever 41 has one or more operating switches 42, and the function of the work vehicle 1 that receives operation instructions is changed by operating the operating switches 42 according to the operation mode switched by the selection operation of the selection device 51. With the above configuration, by switching the operation mode by operating the selection device 51, the function of the operating lever 41 that receives operation instructions can be arbitrarily changed by multiple operating switches 42. Therefore, it is not necessary to provide the operating lever 41 with an amount of operating switches 42 corresponding to the number of functions of the work vehicle 1, and the operability of the operating lever 41 can be further improved.

Furthermore, the multiple operating modes include a third mode for operating the driving and work functions. In the third mode, the operating lever 41 receives driving operation instructions via a swinging motion. The function of the work vehicle 1 receiving operation instructions via the operation of the operating switch 42 in the third mode differs from the function of the work vehicle 1 receiving operation instructions via the operation of the operating switch 42 in the second mode. With this configuration, when switching between the second and third modes, driving control via the swinging motion of the operating lever 41 can be performed continuously before and after the switch. At the same time, switching between the second and third modes allows for the operation of different actions with the same operating switch 42. Therefore, for example, when entering and exiting a field, the content of the work and/or driving actions corresponding to the operation of the operating switch 42 can be changed by switching between the second and third modes while continuing to drive, thereby increasing the versatility of the operating lever 41.

Furthermore, the multiple operating modes include a fourth mode. In this fourth mode, the operating lever 41 does not accept operational instructions for the functions of the work vehicle 1 through swinging motion, but accepts operational instructions for the functions of the work vehicle 1 through operation of the operating switch 42. With this configuration, even if the operator accidentally touches the operating lever 41 when leaving or sitting in the driver's seat 4, causing the lever 41 to swing, it is possible to prevent the work vehicle 1 from unintentionally moving and/or performing operations.

Furthermore, the operating device 40 of the work vehicle 1 includes a display unit 43 that changes its display format according to the operating mode selected by the operation of the selection tool 51. With this configuration, the operator can easily grasp the current operating mode switched by the operation of the selection tool 51.

Furthermore, the display unit 43 is provided on the operating lever 41. With this configuration, the operator can easily check the display unit 43 when operating the operating lever 41.

Furthermore, the display unit 43 is a lamp that changes color according to the operation mode selected by the operation of the selection tool 51. With this configuration, the operator can instantly grasp the current operation mode switched by the operation of the selection tool 51.

Furthermore, the selection tool 51 is a physical switch. With the above configuration, the operator can reliably operate the selection tool 51 by understanding its position without visually inspecting it.

Furthermore, the selection tool 51 is a display image that is displayed on the display screen (display device) 90 and accepts operation. With the above configuration, even without newly providing the selection tool 51, the excellent effects achieved by the aforementioned operating device 40 can be obtained by displaying it on the existing display device 90.

Furthermore, the work vehicle 1 comprises a vehicle body 2, a driver's seat 4 provided on the vehicle body 2, and an operating device 40 provided around the driver's seat 4. With the above configuration, it is possible to realize a work vehicle 1 that can achieve the excellent effects provided by the aforementioned operating device 40.

Furthermore, the operating device 40 of the work vehicle 1 includes an operating lever 41 for operating various functions of the work vehicle 1 and an operable switch 53. The operating lever 41 has one or more operating switches 42, and by operating the operating switches 42, it receives an operation instruction for a predetermined standard function. When the switch 53 is operated, instead of the standard function, it receives an operation instruction for an extended function of the work vehicle 1 that is different from the standard function, by operating the operating switches 42. With this configuration, one operating switch 42 can receive operation instructions for multiple functions in response to the operation of the switch 53. Therefore, it is not necessary to provide the operating lever 41 with a number of operating switches 42 corresponding to the number of functions of the work vehicle 1, which can suppress the complexity of operating the operating switches 42 and further improve the operability of the operating lever 41.

Furthermore, the operating lever 41 receives operation instructions for standard functions via the operation switch 42 when the switch 53 is not being operated, and receives operation instructions for extended functions via the operation switch 42 when the switch 53 is being operated. With this configuration, since the operation switch 42 only receives operation instructions for extended functions when the switch 53 is being operated, it is possible to prevent the operator from accidentally operating the extended functions.

Furthermore, the operation switch 42 has an illuminated section 42b provided on the operation surface 42a, and the illuminated section 42b displays different indicators depending on whether the switch 53 is being operated or not. With this configuration, the operator can easily determine whether the operation instruction currently received by the operation switch 42 is a standard function or an extended function by checking the illuminated section 42b. This prevents the operator from unintentionally operating a standard function or an extended function when they make a mistake in operating the switch 53.

Furthermore, the illumination unit 42b includes a first illumination unit 42b1 provided on one side of the operating surface 42a to indicate standard functions, and a second illumination unit 42b2 provided on the other side of the operating surface 42a to indicate extended functions. When the switch 53 is not operated, the first illumination unit 42b1 illuminates and the second illumination unit 42b2 is off. When the switch 53 is operated, the first illumination unit 42b1 is off and the second illumination unit 42b2 illuminates. With this configuration, the operator can more easily determine whether the operation instruction currently received by the operating switch 42 is for standard functions or extended functions.

Furthermore, the first illumination unit 42b1 and the second illumination unit 42b2 are formed in a shape that follows the inner circumference of the operating surface 42a, and each forms part or all of the contour of the inner circumference of the operating surface 42a. With this configuration, by checking the displays of the first illumination unit 42b1 and the second illumination unit 42b2, the operator can more easily determine whether the function of the operation instruction currently received by the operating switch 42 is a standard function or an extended function. Moreover, the position of the operating switch 42 can be recognized more easily and reliably by the first illumination unit 42b1 and the second illumination unit 42b2.

Furthermore, the operating device 40 of the work vehicle 1 is equipped with a display unit 43 that indicates the operation of the switching device 53 when it is being operated. With this configuration, the operator can easily understand whether the function of the operation instruction currently received by the operating switch 42 is a standard function or an extended function. This prevents the operator from unintentionally operating a standard function or an extended function when they make a mistake in operating the switching device 53.

Furthermore, the display unit 43 is a lamp that flashes to indicate the operation of the switch 53. With this configuration, the operator can more easily determine whether the operation instruction currently received by the operation switch 42 is a standard function or an extended function.

Furthermore, the operating lever 41 comprises a base end portion 41a that is pivotably supported around the driver's seat 4 of the work vehicle 1, and a gripping portion 41b provided at the tip of the base end portion 41a. Multiple operating switches 42 are arranged on the side of the gripping portion 41b facing the driver's seat 4, and the switching device 53 is arranged on a side of the gripping portion 41b different from the operating switches 42. This configuration prevents the operator from mistakenly operating the switching device 53 instead of the operating switches 42. This, in turn, prevents the operator from unintentionally performing a second operation.

Furthermore, the switching device 53 is positioned on the upper or lower surface of the surface where the multiple operating switches 42 are located. This configuration reliably prevents the operator from mistakenly operating the switching device 53 instead of the operating switches 42.

Furthermore, the work vehicle 1 comprises a vehicle body 2, a driver's seat 4 provided on the vehicle body 2, and an operating device 40 provided around the driver's seat 4. With the above configuration, it is possible to realize a work vehicle 1 that can achieve the excellent effects provided by the aforementioned operating device 40.

Furthermore, the work vehicle 1 is equipped with a display device 90 that displays the correspondence between the operation of the operation switch 42 and the content of the extended function that receives operation instructions via the operation of the operation switch 42, when the switching device 53 is being operated. With this configuration, the operator can easily understand the content of the extended function, and can also easily determine whether the function of the operation instruction currently received by the operation switch 42 is a standard function or an extended function.

Furthermore, the support device 100 for the work vehicle 1 comprises a control device 80 that controls multiple functions related to the work vehicle 1, a first function operating tool 45 for selecting multiple functions, and a second function operating tool 46 for changing the control parameters of the function selected by the first function operating tool 45. The second function operating tool 46 is a dial switch that changes the control parameters by rotation. With this configuration, the operator can quickly change the function parameters by using the first function operating tool 45 and the second function operating tool 46. Also, because the second function operating tool 46 is a dial switch, the operator can easily operate it without visually checking it, even while the work vehicle 1 is in motion.

Furthermore, the control device 80 has a modification unit 80b that changes the selection of functions that can be operated using the first function operating tool 45 from among multiple functions. With this configuration, the operator can arbitrarily change the selection of functions to be operated using the first function operating tool 45. Therefore, the operator can quickly select a function using the first function operating tool 45.

Furthermore, the support device 100 of the work vehicle 1 is equipped with a display device 90 that displays a function that can be selected and operated using the first function operating tool 45 from among multiple functions. The display device 90 displays the selected function and other functions in different formats. With this configuration, the operator can easily understand the function being operated using the first function operating tool 45 and the other selectable functions.

Furthermore, the support device 100 of the work vehicle 1 is equipped with a display device 90 that displays the control parameters changed by the second function operating tool 46. With this configuration, the operator can easily understand the changed limit parameters by checking the control parameters displayed on the display device 90.

Furthermore, the first function control device 45 is a dial switch that selects a function by rotation. With this configuration, the operator can easily operate the first function control device 45 without visually inspecting it, even while the work vehicle 1 is in motion.

Furthermore, the axial direction of the rotation axis L1 of the first function operating tool 45 differs from the axial direction of the rotation axis L2 of the second function operating tool 46. With this configuration, the operator can easily distinguish which operating tool 45 or 46 will allow them to select a function and manipulate its parameters. This enables rapid manipulation of the function parameters of the work vehicle 1.

Furthermore, the axial direction of the rotation axis L1 of the first function operating tool 45 is perpendicular to the axial direction of the rotation axis L2 of the second function operating tool 46. With this configuration, the operator can more reliably distinguish which operating tool 45 or 46 will allow them to select a function and manipulate parameters.

Furthermore, the first function control device 45 is a display image that is shown on the display screen 90 and accepts selection operations. With this configuration, the operator can intuitively select function options.

Furthermore, the work vehicle 1 comprises a vehicle body 2, a driver's seat 4 provided in the vehicle body 2, and a support device 100. With the above configuration, it is possible to realize a work vehicle 1 that can achieve the excellent effects provided by the aforementioned support device 100.

Furthermore, the support device 100 for the work vehicle 1 comprises a control device 80 that controls multiple functions related to the work vehicle 1, and an operating tool 49 for operating a predetermined function among the multiple functions. The control device 80 has an update unit 80a that updates the function assigned to the operating tool 49 to a different function, and the operating tool 49 has a first indicator lamp 49b1 that changes its display form according to the category to which the function updated by the update unit 80a belongs. With this configuration, the operator can easily grasp the classification (category) of the function updated by the update unit 80a. This helps to suppress erroneous operation even when the function to which the operating tool 49 receives operation instructions is updated.

Furthermore, the first indicator lamp 49b1 illuminates in a different color depending on the category to which the function updated by the update unit 80a belongs. With this configuration, the operator can instantly grasp the category of the function updated by the update unit 80a.

Furthermore, the operating tool 49 is pre-assigned a predetermined initial function from among multiple functions. The update unit 80a updates the function assigned to the operating tool 49 to an updated function different from the initial function from among the multiple functions. The first indicator lamp 49b1 changes its display format according to the category to which the updated function updated by the update unit 80a belongs. With this configuration, the operator can easily determine whether the function for which the operating tool 49 accepts operation instructions has been updated by the update unit 80a by checking the display of the first indicator lamp 49b1.

Furthermore, the operating device 49 is equipped with an icon indicating the initial function. With this configuration, the operator can easily understand the content of the function when the operating device 49 accepts an operation for the initial function by checking the display and icon of the first indicator lamp 49b1.

Furthermore, the operating device 49 has a second indicator lamp 49b2 in addition to the first indicator lamp 49b1, and the second indicator lamp 49b2 changes its display depending on whether the function assigned to the operating device 49 is enabled or disabled. With this configuration, the operator can easily understand whether the function is enabled or disabled by checking the second indicator lamp 49b2. In addition, the first indicator lamp 49b1 and the second indicator lamp 49b2 are positioned to surround the icon. With this configuration, the position of the operating device 49 can be easily recognized by the first indicator lamp 49b1 and the second indicator lamp 49b2.

Furthermore, the operating tool 49 has a third lamp that illuminates separately from the first indicator lamp 49b1 and the second indicator lamp 49b2. The first indicator lamp 49b1, the second indicator lamp 49b2, and the third indicator lamp 49b3 are formed in a shape that follows the inner circumference of the operating surface 49a of the operating tool 49, each forming part or all of the contour of the inner circumference of the operating surface 49a. With this configuration, the operator can easily determine whether the function is enabled or disabled by checking the second indicator lamp 49b2, and can also more easily and reliably recognize the position of the operating tool 49 using the first indicator lamp 49b1, the second indicator lamp 49b2, and the third indicator lamp 49b3.

Furthermore, the work vehicle 1 comprises a vehicle body 2, a driver's seat 4 provided on the vehicle body 2, and a support device 100. The operating tools 49 are located around the driver's seat 4. With this configuration, a work vehicle 1 that can achieve the excellent effects provided by the aforementioned support device 100 can be realized.

Furthermore, the operating device 40 of the work vehicle 1 is equipped with an operating lever 41 for operating various functions of the work vehicle 1. The operating lever 41 has a base end 41a that is pivotably supported around the driver's seat 4 of the work vehicle 1, a gripping portion 41b provided at the tip of the base end 41a, and a switching portion 55 that connects the gripping portion 41b and the base end 41a and switches between a first form 55A where the angle of the gripping portion 41b with respect to the base end 41a is a first angle θ1, and a second form 55B where the angle is a second angle θ2 different from the first angle θ1. The function of the work vehicle 1 that receives operation instructions is changed depending on whether the switching portion 55 is in the first form 55A or the second form 55B. With the above configuration, even with a single operating lever 41, various controls of the work vehicle 1 can be performed by changing the form of the switching portion 55. This eliminates the need for the operator to change their grip on the operating lever 41 each time the environment in which the work vehicle 1 operates or the work content changes, thus preventing the operator from operating the wrong lever or switch. Furthermore, since there is no need to increase the number of operating levers 41 depending on the type of function of the work vehicle 1, the number of operating components on the operating device 40 can be reduced, improving the overall operability of the operating device 40 and preventing the operating levers 41 from obstructing the operator's view.

Furthermore, the operating lever 41 is supported so as to be able to swing freely, and the function of the work vehicle 1 that receives operation instructions by swinging the switching unit 55 is changed depending on whether the switching unit 55 is in the first form 55A or the second form 55B. According to the above configuration, by changing the form of the operating lever 41, the function of receiving operation instructions by swinging the operating lever 41 can be arbitrarily changed. Therefore, although the swingable operating lever 41 requires a relatively wide operating range, the number of operating members on the operating device 40 can be reduced, interference between operating members can be suppressed, and the overall operability of the operating device 40 can be improved.

Furthermore, when the switching unit 55 is in the first configuration 55A, the operating lever 41 is switched to a first mode for operating at least the work-related functions of the work vehicle 1. When the switching unit 55 is in the second configuration 55B, the operating lever 41 is switched to a second mode for operating at least the driving-related functions of the work vehicle 1. In the first mode, the operating lever 41 receives operation instructions for the work functions by a swinging motion, and in the second mode, the operating lever 41 receives operation instructions for the driving functions by a swinging motion. With this configuration, the operator can continuously operate the operating lever 41 without having to change their grip on the lever 41 when operating work functions and when operating driving functions.

Furthermore, the second angle θ2 is greater than the first angle θ1. When the switching section 55 is in the first form 55A, the gripping section 41b extends from the switching section 55 along the extension direction of the base end 41a. When the switching section 55 is in the second form 55B, the gripping section 41b extends from the switching section 55 inward or outward in the width direction. According to the above configuration, when operating the travel function, the operator can stably grip the gripping section 41b, and when operating the work function, they can perform precise movements using their wrist.

Furthermore, the operating lever 41 has one or more operating switches 42, and the function of the work vehicle 1 that receives operation instructions is changed by operating the operating switches 42 depending on whether the switching unit 55 is in the first form 55A or the second form 55B. According to the above configuration, by changing the form of the operating lever 41, the function of the operating lever 41 that receives operation instructions via multiple operating switches 42 can be arbitrarily changed. Therefore, it is not necessary to provide the operating lever 41 with a number of operating switches 42 corresponding to the number of functions of the work vehicle 1, and the operability of the operating lever 41 can be further improved.

Furthermore, the operating lever 41 is equipped with a display unit 43 that changes the display format depending on whether the switching unit 55 is in the first configuration 55A or the second configuration 55B. With this configuration, the operator can easily understand the state of the operating lever 41 by using the display unit 43 in addition to the format of the switching unit 55.

The display unit 43 is a lamp that changes color depending on whether the switching unit 55 is in the first configuration 55A or the second configuration 55B. With this configuration, the operator can instantly grasp the status of the operating lever 41 through the display unit 43 in addition to the configuration of the switching unit 55.

Furthermore, the work vehicle 1 comprises a vehicle body 2, a driver's seat 4 provided on the vehicle body 2, and an operating device 40 provided around the driver's seat 4. With the above configuration, it is possible to realize a work vehicle 1 that can achieve the excellent effects provided by the aforementioned operating device 40.

The present invention has been described above, but the embodiments disclosed herein should be considered in all respects to be illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is indicated by the claims rather than the foregoing description, and all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims are intended to be included.

1. Work vehicles (tractors)
2. Vehicle body 4. Driver's seat 40. Control device 41. Operating lever 42. Operating switch 43. Display unit 51. Selection device

Claims (8)

Operating levers for controlling various functions of the work vehicle,
A selection tool for selecting the operating mode of the aforementioned operating lever,
Equipped with,
The aforementioned operating lever is
It is supported so as to be able to swing freely and has one or more operating switches.
Depending on the operation mode selected by the selection tool, the function of the work vehicle that receives operation instructions by the swinging operation is changed,
Depending on the operation mode selected by the selection tool, the function of the work vehicle that receives operation instructions by operating the operation switch is changed.
The multiple operating modes include a first mode for operating at least the work functions of the work vehicle, a second mode for operating at least the driving functions of the work vehicle, and a third mode for operating the driving functions and the work functions.
In the first mode, the operating lever receives an operation instruction for the work function by the swinging operation; in the second mode, it receives an operation instruction for the driving function by the swinging operation; and in the third mode, it receives an operation instruction for the driving function by the swinging operation.
An operating device for a work vehicle, wherein in the third mode, the function of the work vehicle that receives operation instructions by operating the operation switch is different from the function of the work vehicle that receives operation instructions by operating the operation switch in the second mode . The multiple operating modes include a fourth mode,
In the fourth mode described above, the operating lever is
The aforementioned rocking operation prevents the operation instructions for the functions of the work vehicle from being received.
The operating device for a work vehicle according to claim 1, which receives operation instructions for the functions of the work vehicle by operating the operation switch. The operating device for a work vehicle according to claim 1, comprising a display unit that changes the display format according to the operating mode selected by the operation of the selection tool. The operating device for a work vehicle according to claim 3 , wherein the display unit is provided on the operating lever. The operating device for a work vehicle according to claim 3 , wherein the display unit is a lamp that changes color according to the operating mode selected by operating the selection tool. The operating device for a work vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the selection device is a physical switch. The operating device for a work vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the selection tool is a display image displayed on a display screen and accepting operation. The car body and,
The driver's seat provided in the aforementioned vehicle body,
An operating device as described in any one of claims 1 to 7 , and provided around the driver's seat,
A work vehicle equipped with the following features.