Angled Rear Support Member for Machine Cab Visibility
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machine cab designs with multiple support members obstruct the operator's rear view, compromising visibility and operational efficiency, especially when reversing or monitoring back-mounted implements.
Innovation Solution
A rear support member with an angled upper portion that defines a rear view opening, allowing unobstructed visibility while maintaining structural integrity and functionality as a roll-over protection system and air conduit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If multiple support members are used to strengthen the cab structure for roll-over protection, then the structural strength and roll-over protection capability are improved, but the operator's rear view visibility deteriorates due to obstructions
Solution Approach 1:
The rear support member is segmented into multiple portions (first portion, second portion, third portion) with different orientations. The first portion extends vertically, the second portion extends at an angle, and the third portion extends horizontally to form the rear view opening. This segmentation allows the support member to maintain structural strength while creating visibility openings.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the rear support member have different local qualities - the first portion provides vertical support, the second portion provides angled support and defines the opening, and the third portion provides horizontal support. This local differentiation allows the structure to be strong where needed while providing visibility where required.
2Reliability
If multiple support members are used to strengthen the cab structure, then the roll-over protection capability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple support functions are merged into a single rear support member. This single member provides vertical support, angled support, horizontal support, and defines the rear view opening, replacing what would traditionally require multiple separate members and braces.
Solution Approach 2:
The rear support member serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support, defines the rear view opening for visibility, and contributes to the roll-over protection system. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed.
3Strength
If the rear support member is positioned vertically to maximize structural support, then the structural strength is improved, but the rear end visibility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The rear support member employs a dynamic configuration with portions at different angles rather than a static vertical orientation. The second portion extends at an angle and the third portion extends horizontally, creating adaptability in the structural design to accommodate both support and visibility requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The support member transitions from a purely vertical dimension to include angled and horizontal dimensions. The second portion extends at an angle and the third portion extends horizontally to form the opening, adding dimensional complexity that enables visibility while maintaining support.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A cab (12) for a machine (10). The machine (10) has a longitudinal axis (24) extending between a front (82), and a back (84) opposite to the front (82). The cab (12) includes a roof (44) and a floor (42) extending generally about the longitudinal axis (24). A vertical seat index axis (38) extends through intermediate portions of the roof (44) and the floor (42) and is associated with a position of the operator disposed to face the front (82). The vertical seat index axis (38) intersects perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (24) at an intersection (40). A plurality of support members are disposed between the roof (44) and the floor (42), including a rear support member (50) disposed at a rear end (52) of the cab (12). At least an upper portion (60) of the rear support member (50) is positioned at an angle relative to the intersection (40) at an angle along the longitudinal axis (24) and defines a rear view opening (76) to facilitate rear end visibility of the machine (10).