Ergonomic Machine Joystick Layout for Fatigue-Free Remote Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machine joysticks lack ergonomic and accessibility features, leading to operator fatigue and discomfort during extended use, especially in controlling multiple functions of earth-moving machines with remote control systems that require simultaneous hand and foot operations.
Innovation Solution
A joystick design with a base portion and handle configuration that includes a tilted faceplate and recessed thumb rest, allowing for comfortable positioning and control using the thumb and fingertips, reducing fatigue by enabling easy access to control buttons and wheels without requiring both hands and feet.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional joystick design is used, then device complexity is reduced, but operator comfort and accessibility deteriorate leading to fatigue during extended use
Solution Approach 1:
The joystick incorporates a tilted faceplate specifically angled to match the operator's hand position, and a recessed thumb rest positioned to accommodate natural thumb placement. These localized ergonomic modifications improve comfort and accessibility without requiring complete redesign of the entire control system.
Solution Approach 2:
The faceplate is tilted at an angle relative to the base portion, creating a three-dimensional configuration that brings controls within easy reach of the operator's thumb and fingertips. This angular dimension allows intuitive operation while maintaining a compact overall structure.
2Ease of operation
If multiple control functions are integrated into a single joystick, then ease of operation improves by reducing the number of controls, but device complexity increases requiring sophisticated handle and faceplate configurations
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple control functions including travel direction, speed settings, steering, and work tool control are integrated into a single joystick assembly. The handle and faceplate are configured to provide intuitive access to all these functions, consolidating controls that would traditionally require separate devices or foot pedals.
Solution Approach 2:
The joystick is designed as a universal control device that can perform multiple functions depending on the machine configuration. The same basic joystick structure supports various control modes including remote control console operations and machine-cabin operations, adapting to different operational requirements.
3Reliability
If remote control console is used, then operator safety improves by separating the operator from the machine, but ease of operation deteriorates requiring control of all functions with two hands and no foot pedals
Solution Approach 1:
The tilted faceplate creates a three-dimensional control surface that brings all necessary controls within easy reach of the operator's hands. This angular configuration allows intuitive thumb and fingertip operation of multiple functions simultaneously, making remote control operation as natural as conventional in-cab control.
Solution Approach 2:
The recessed thumb rest and tilted faceplate are specifically designed to accommodate the operator's hand position during remote control operation. These localized ergonomic features enable comfortable extended use of the remote control console without fatigue.
Data Source
AI summary
A joystick for performing control functions of a machine having a work tool may include a base portion configured to at least partially support an operator's hand, and a handle extending from the base portion. The base portion may be configured for connection to a control interface surface in a machine cabin or on a remote control console or a remote operator's station for the machine. The handle may extend from the base portion with a proximal end of the handle being connected to the base portion, and a distal end of the handle supporting a head portion of the joystick. The head portion of the joystick may include a back surface that is contiguous with a back surface of the handle, and a front surface including a face plate tilted at an angle of 10 degrees plus or minus 5 degrees in a direction toward a position of the operator sitting in an operator's seat of the machine with respect to a plane parallel to the back surface.