Adjustable Pod Support Bracket for Machine Control Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current control devices for machines like wheel loaders are not fully adjustable, leading to ergonomic challenges and reduced operator comfort and productivity, especially when operators of different sizes and shapes use machines with varying interior dimensions and control pod placements.
Innovation Solution
A position-adjustable mechanism for machine control devices, such as joysticks, featuring a pod support bracket with vertically oriented struts and orthogonally positioned cross beams, allowing lateral and vertical translation via a carriage and spring-loaded pins, enabling secure and ergonomic positioning adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If control devices are made fixed in position, then structural simplicity is maintained, but operator comfort and ergonomics deteriorate due to inability to accommodate different operator sizes and machine configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The control pod support bracket is transformed from a fixed structure to a dynamically adjustable one, enabling movement along the first axis (lateral translation via carriage) and second axis (vertical translation via spring-loaded pins). This dynamic capability allows the control device position to adapt to different operator preferences and machine configurations, directly improving operator comfort while introducing controlled complexity through the adjustment mechanism.
2Adaptability or versatility
If control pod position is made adjustable along curved paths only, then some adaptability is achieved, but linear motion capability is lost limiting utility
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanism transitions from single-plane curved motion to two-dimensional adjustable positioning by introducing orthogonal movement axes. The first axis enables lateral translation through the carriage mechanism, while the second axis enables vertical translation through spring-loaded pins. This dimensional expansion provides both curved and linear motion capabilities, significantly enhancing adaptability without compromising operational ease.
3Ease of operation
If multiple seating positions are used during work cycle, then operator comfort may be improved, but productivity decreases due to frequent adjustments
Solution Approach 1:
The control pod position is adjusted in advance to match the operator's primary seating position and operational requirements. Once positioned, the spring-loaded pins and carriage mechanism maintain stable positioning throughout the work cycle, eliminating the need for frequent re-adjustments. This preliminary positioning action ensures both operator comfort and continuous productivity without interruption.
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus for adjusting the spatial position of a machine control device relative to a machine cab floor includes a support bracket defined by a pair of spaced parallel struts, and a pair of spaced cross beams orthogonally positioned relative to the struts, each cross beam having opposed ends rigidly securing the struts together. A laterally translatable carriage is supported on the cross beams for movement of the carriage between the struts along a first axis. The carriage includes a pair of spaced pin-receiving bores, orthogonally oriented with respect to the cross beams, that extend generally parallel to the struts. Spring-loaded pins may extend through each of the carriage bores to support movement of a control device along a second axis.