Operator Control Handle with Nested Force Feedback Actuator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machine operator-control systems lack the ability to vary resistance in traction-control arms and steering tillers based on operating conditions, limiting operator feedback and control effectiveness.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a force feedback device connected to control handles, including actuators or brakes, which adjusts feedback force magnitude based on machine operating conditions, enhancing operator control through adjustable resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a force feedback device is connected to control handles mounted on armrests, then operator feedback and control effectiveness are improved, but device complexity and installation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The force feedback device is nested within the armrest structure, with the actuator positioned inside the armrest housing and the control handle extending outward. This integration allows the feedback mechanism to be embedded within the existing control system without requiring separate external components, thereby improving operator feedback while managing device complexity through compact nesting.
Solution Approach 2:
A mechanical coupling mechanism serves as an intermediary between the actuator and the control handle, transmitting feedback force from the actuator to the handle. This intermediary component simplifies the connection interface and enables standardized integration of force feedback devices into existing control handle assemblies, reducing overall system complexity.
2Ease of operation
If force feedback devices are integrated into control handles, then operator feedback is enhanced, but the space required for installation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator and force feedback mechanism are nested within the existing armrest volume, utilizing the internal cavity space of the armrest structure. This nesting approach allows the force feedback device to be accommodated within the already-allocated space for control components, avoiding additional volume requirements and enabling integration without expanding the overall machine footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
The control handle is designed to extend vertically upward from the armrest, utilizing the vertical dimension for the feedback transmission path. By orienting the feedback mechanism along the vertical axis rather than requiring horizontal space, the system achieves effective force feedback delivery while minimizing the horizontal footprint and overall installation volume.
3Adaptability or versatility
If resistance in control handles is made variable based on operating conditions, then operator control is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator is configured to dynamically adjust the resistance or feedback force applied to the control handle based on real-time operating conditions. The actuator's output force varies continuously in response to sensor inputs and control system commands, enabling adaptive resistance modulation that improves operator control while utilizing the inherent dynamic capabilities of electro-mechanical actuators without requiring complex mechanical variable resistance mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system incorporates sensors that monitor operating conditions and feed this information back to the actuator control algorithm. This feedback loop enables the system to automatically adjust the feedback force magnitude based on actual machine operation, achieving variable resistance control through intelligent software control rather than complex mechanical mechanisms, thereby managing device complexity.
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
The solution provides operators with improved control and feedback, allowing for more effective machine operation by varying resistance in response to changing conditions, thus enhancing operator control and reducing fatigue.
Implementation Method 1
The force-feedback device may include at least one of an actuator or a brake
Implementation Method 2
The force feedback device may include at least one of an actuator or a brake
Data Source
AI summary
A machine includes an operator seat and an armrest adjacent the operator seat. The machine may also include a control system, which may include a control handle extending at least partially upward from the armrest. The control system may also include a force feedback device drivingly connected to the control handle and operable to supply feedback force to the control handle. The force-feedback device may include at least one of an actuator or a brake. Additionally, the control system may automatically adjust the magnitude of the feedback force supplied to the control handle by the force feedback device in at least some circumstances.