Electric Mobility Control Unit Wireless Manual Mode Switch

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing riding type tractors with automatic steering systems may inadvertently switch to manual steering, leading to unintended vehicle operations when an unskilled operator, who requires assistance, performs incorrect manual steering, potentially causing unsafe movements.

Innovation Solution

An electric mobility system with a control unit that enables two modes: one disabling manual operation by the operator and another allowing it, based on wireless signals from a helper's terminal, ensuring the vehicle operates as intended by prioritizing wireless commands over manual inputs when necessary.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If automatic steering is automatically switched to manual steering when manual operation is continued for a predetermined time, then the system responds to operator input, but an unskilled operator may perform incorrect operations causing unintended vehicle movement

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanual steering operationVSAvoidvehicle operation safety
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by making the control mode adjustable and switchable between manual and wireless control. The control unit dynamically changes the operational state of the manual operation unit based on received wireless signals, allowing the system to adapt its control characteristics to match the current operator's skill level and needs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a wireless terminal as an intermediary between the helper and the vehicle control system. This intermediary device transmits wireless signals that enable the helper to control the vehicle remotely, adding a layer of mediation that prevents direct manual control by unskilled operators while still allowing vehicle operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If manual operation is always enabled, then the operator can control the vehicle directly, but incorrect operations by unskilled operators cannot be prevented

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedirect manual controlVSAvoidincorrect operation effects
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary anti-action by preemptively disabling the manual operation unit through wireless control signals before incorrect operations can cause harm. The helper can send a wireless signal to disable manual control, preventing potential incorrect operations by unskilled operators before they occur.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #9Preliminary anti-action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the operational parameter of the manual operation unit from enabled to disabled state based on wireless control signals. This parameter change allows the system to switch between allowing and preventing manual control, adapting to the skill level and needs of the current operator.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If wireless control is always enabled, then a helper can control the vehicle, but the operator cannot operate the vehicle independently

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrolled operationVSAvoidcontrol mode flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent makes the control system dynamic by allowing switching between wireless control and manual operation modes. The control unit responds to wireless signals to enable or disable manual control, providing flexibility that adapts to different operational scenarios and operator capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a universal control system that can serve both independent operators and assisted operators. The manual operation unit can function in both enabled and disabled states, making it versatile enough to handle different operator skill levels and control requirements through a single unified system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP3020461B1An operator-mounted electric vehicle with both manual and remote wireless control
Publication Date: 2020.01.15 WHILL
  • EP3020461B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3020461B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3020461B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

An operation unintended by a helper due to an incorrect operation or the like by an operator is prevented. An electric mobility includes a manual operation unit, a wireless operation unit, and a control unit that controls a driving wheel on the basis of either a first command signal output by the manual operation unit or a second command signal output by the wireless operation unit. The control unit sets a first control mode enabling an operation of the electric driving wheel by the manual operation unit and a second control mode disabling an operation of the electric driving wheel by the manual operation unit on the basis of a wireless signal transmitted from a wireless terminal.