Compact Utility Vehicle Controls for Stable Stand-On Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Operators of compact utility vehicles, particularly those standing behind the vehicle, face challenges in precisely controlling the vehicle due to sudden movements that interfere with their ability to operate the machine effectively.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a manual input device positioned adjacent to the operator station, featuring a handle portion rigidly connected to the vehicle frame and a control portion with thumb-accessible control surfaces associated with sensors, to provide control signals for operational aspects of the vehicle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the operator stands behind the vehicle during operation, then the operator can have a clear view of the work area and maintain stability, but sudden vehicle movements interfere with the operator's ability to control the machine with precision
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into multiple independent manual input devices (first manual input device for ground engaging wheels/tracks, second manual input device for implement operations). This segmentation allows the operator to control different functions separately, reducing the complexity of simultaneous control tasks and improving precision despite vehicle movements.
Solution Approach 2:
Sensors are introduced as intermediaries between the manual input devices and the vehicle控制系统. The sensors detect the position and movement of the control members, translating physical movements into precise control signals that compensate for vehicle movements, thereby maintaining control precision.
2Measurement precision
If manual input devices are positioned on the control console, then the operator can access controls while standing, but the controls may be difficult to reach and manipulate with precision
Solution Approach 1:
Each manual input device is designed with specific local characteristics optimized for its function. The first manual input device has control members positioned for optimal hand operation to control vehicle movement, while the second manual input device has controls positioned for thumb operation to control implement functions. This localized optimization ensures both accessibility and precision for each control task.
Solution Approach 2:
The control members are designed to move in multiple dimensions (pivoting, tilting, sliding) to provide intuitive control. For example, the first manual input device allows control of left/right movement and forward/reverse movement through multi-directional manipulation of control members, enhancing both accessibility and control accuracy.
Data Source
AI summary
A compact utility vehicle including a chassis supporting a prime mover, ground engaging wheels or tracks, an implement, and a rear standing platform operably coupled to the chassis. The vehicle can be equipped with a control console that is operably coupled to the chassis at an elevation above the rear standing platform. The console can have two manual input devices, including a first manual input device configured to control the ground engaging wheels or tracks located along the lateral direction of the vehicle between a longitudinal centerline of the vehicle and 50% of a distance to a first side of the control console, and a second manual input device defining a rigid grip and a thumb switch control portion to control the operation of the implement, located along the lateral direction of the vehicle between the longitudinal centerline of the vehicle and 50% of a distance to a second side of the control console.