Auxiliary Wireless Control Device for Aerial Work Vehicle Boom Operations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Construction machine operators face inconvenience due to the reverse orientation of boom controls when transitioning from self-propulsive to boom operation modes, requiring mental corrections and reduced visibility of the work platform.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an auxiliary control device, including a second control panel oriented in the correct direction for boom operations and a wireless hand-held control device, allowing flexible control options and remote operation, which locks out self-propulsive mode controls when activated.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the first control panel is oriented for self-propulsive mode operation, then the propulsion system and steerage system can be controlled effectively, but the boom controls operate in reverse direction during boom operations
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into two separate control panels: a first control panel for self-propulsive mode and a second control panel for boom operations. Each panel is independently oriented to optimize control direction for its specific mode, eliminating the reverse control issue while maintaining mode-specific optimization.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system dynamically switches between two operational configurations based on the selected mode. The second control panel can be rotated or repositioned to provide correct control orientation during boom operations, allowing the system to adapt its control geometry to the current operational context.
2Illumination intensity
If the operator faces the opposite direction during boom operations to observe boom position or signaler signals, then visibility of work site is improved, but the control orientation becomes reversed
Solution Approach 1:
The solution adds a spatial dimension to the control system by providing a second control panel that can be positioned and oriented independently from the first panel. This allows the operator to face the correct direction for observation while the control panel orientation is adjusted to match the operational mode, decoupling the operator's facing direction from the control orientation.
3Device complexity
If a single control panel is used for both self-propulsive and boom operations, then device complexity is reduced, but the operator requires mental corrections and operation efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is divided into two specialized control panels instead of one general-purpose panel. This segmentation allows each panel to be optimized for its specific function, eliminating the need for mental corrections and improving operational efficiency while accepting increased system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Each control panel is designed with local quality optimization - the first panel is configured specifically for self-propulsive mode controls, while the second panel is configured specifically for boom operation controls. This localized optimization ensures that each control set has the appropriate orientation and layout for its intended use, improving overall system efficiency.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an aerial work vehicle (AWV) comprising: a boom; a work platform coupled to a distal end of the boom, the work platform having a forward end in a direction of travel and an aft end opposite the forward end; a first control device mechanically coupled to one of the forward end and the aft end of the work platform to control operation of at least the boom; and an alternate second control device configured to control operation of at least the boom, wherein the second control device is one of: i) wireless, and ii) mechanically coupled to the work platform at a location different from a location of the first control device.