Construction machine
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Solution Overview
Problem
Operators of construction machines face poor operability due to the need to bend forward or remove their arm from an armrest to access switches on a display device, disrupting their posture and workflow.
Innovation Solution
A construction machine design featuring a switch panel positioned between the right armrest and operating lever on the seat console, allowing operators to maintain armrest support while operating switches without bending forward.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If switches are placed on the display device, then the display device can be integrated with control functions, but the operator has to bend forward or remove arm from armrest to operate switches
Solution Approach 1:
The control functions are segmented into two locations: frequently used switches are placed on the seat right side console within arm's reach, while less frequently used switches remain on the display device. This segmentation allows operators to access critical controls without leaving the armrest position.
Solution Approach 2:
The seat right side console acts as an intermediary structure between the operator and the display device, providing a intermediate control panel that contains essential switches accessible from the seated position without requiring forward movement or arm removal from armrest.
2Area of stationary object
If switches are placed on the display device, then space in the cabin can be utilized, but the operator's posture is disrupted and workflow is interrupted
Solution Approach 1:
Different control functions are assigned to different locations based on their usage frequency and importance. Critical switches are localized to the seat right side console for immediate access, while secondary controls remain on the display device, creating localized control zones that optimize both space utilization and operational efficiency.
Data Source
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AI summary
A shovel as a construction machine includes a cabin, an operator seat provided in the cabin, a seat right side console provided on the right side of an operator to be seated in the operator seat, and extending along a front-to-back direction of the operator seat, a right operating lever provided at the front of the seat right side console, a switch panel provided on the seat right side console, and a right armrest extending from the back side toward the front of the operator seat, and placed above the seat right side console. The switch panel is placed between the right armrest and the right operating lever.