Agricultural Input Device with Variable Haptic Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing input devices for agricultural working machines are inflexible and specifically tailored to particular applications, limiting their use across different working elements.
Innovation Solution
A versatile input device with a movable operating element that interacts with sensors and a control unit to translate movement information into control reactions, and a feedback mechanism that adjusts resistance based on the working element's status, allowing operation of various working elements without mechanical stops or restoring forces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If an input device is specifically tailored to a particular application (e.g., raising or lowering a front loader), then it provides precise control for that specific function, but it cannot be used to operate other working elements of the agricultural machine
Solution Approach 1:
The control element is designed as a universal interface that can operate multiple different working elements through electronic control rather than dedicated mechanical linkages. A single control element replaces multiple application-specific controls, allowing the operator to select and control different working elements (front loader, lifting mechanisms, data processing systems) through one unified interface, thereby achieving multi-functionality without proportionally increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces direct mechanical coupling between the control element and working elements with an electronic control system. Sensors detect the position and movement of the control element, and a control unit processes this information to generate appropriate control signals for various working elements. This substitution eliminates the need for complex mechanical linkages for each application while maintaining precise control, resolving the contradiction between versatility and complexity
2Ease of operation
If mechanical stops are used to prevent the control element from moving beyond its working range, then unintended movement is prevented, but the control element cannot be used continuously or incrementally beyond fixed positions
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs feedback mechanisms where sensors continuously monitor the position of the control element and the status of the working elements. This feedback is processed by the control unit, which can generate haptic feedback through the feedback device to guide the operator back within the valid working range. This electronic feedback system maintains reliability by preventing unintended movement while allowing continuous and incremental control within the operational range, eliminating the need for restrictive mechanical stops
3Loss of information
If a feedback device exerts a variable feedback response on the control element, then haptic feedback is provided to indicate the position of the working element, but the control element becomes increasingly difficult to move as the working element approaches the end of its working range
Solution Approach 1:
The feedback device applies a variable feedback response that increases resistance only as the working element approaches the limits of its working range, rather than throughout the entire range of motion. This partial application of feedback force provides sufficient haptic information to guide the operator without creating excessive resistance during normal operation. The feedback is applied selectively and proportionally to the proximity of limits, maintaining ease of operation while delivering necessary positional information
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables flexible operation of multiple working elements, such as front loaders, lifting mechanisms, and data processing systems, with adjustable haptic feedback that prevents unintended movement beyond the working range, reducing the need for multiple input devices.
Implementation Method 1
the feedback device is suitable for exerting a variable feedback response on the control element depending on feedback information
Data Source
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AI summary
The present application relates to an input device (1) for an agricultural machine (2), comprising an operating element (3), a sensor (4), a control unit (5) and a feedback means (6), wherein the operating element (3) is designed to be continuously and/or incrementally movable, so that it enables a continuously and/or incrementally adjustable setting of at least one input value, wherein the sensor (4) is connected to the operating element (3) and motion information relating to a movement of the operating element (4) can be detected by means of the sensor (4) and transmitted to the control unit (5), wherein the motion information can be processed by means of the control unit (5) and, based on the motion information, both control information for controlling a working element (10) of the machine (2) and feedback information can be determined, which can be transmitted to the feedback means (6).wherein the feedback means (6) and the control element (3) are coupled or can be coupled in a force-transmitting manner, such that a feedback reaction to the control element (3) can be exerted by means of the feedback means (6) which is variable depending on the feedback information received from the control unit (5).