Hand-Gesture Operating Unit for Intuitive Work Machine Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing operating devices for construction and handling machines require extensive practice and training due to complex manual control mechanisms, making it difficult for inexperienced operators to operate these machines safely and efficiently.
Innovation Solution
An operating device that generates control signals based on the joint positions of an operator's hand, allowing for intuitive control of the machine's movements through wireless transmission, enabling operators to control machines like hydraulic excavators with reduced training time and increased safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional hand-held control units are used to operate work machines, then the machine can be controlled, but the operator requires extensive practice and training to operate it safely
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical hand-held control units with an optical/image processing-based control system. A camera captures images of the operator's hand gestures, and image processing algorithms convert these gestures into control signals for the machine. This substitution eliminates the need for operators to learn complex mechanical lever operations, significantly reducing training time while maintaining safe operation through intuitive gesture-based control.
2Ease of operation
If complex work sequences are controlled through manual deflection of control levers, then the machine functions can be operated, but the operation is not intuitive and requires great deal of practice
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical control lever systems with an image processing-based gesture recognition system. The camera-based system captures hand gestures and automatically translates them into machine control commands through software algorithms. This eliminates the need for physical control levers and their complex mechanical linkages, making the operation more intuitive while reducing the overall mechanical complexity of the control system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the operator's hand gestures through image capture and processing. Instead of requiring direct mechanical manipulation of control levers, the system captures images of the operator's natural hand movements and uses these images as proxies to generate control signals. This copying approach allows intuitive operation while eliminating the need for complex mechanical control mechanisms.
3Reliability
If operators must be highly trained to operate machines safely, then safe operation is achieved, but acquisition and operating costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the need for extensive operator training with an automated image processing and gesture recognition system. By capturing hand gestures through a camera and automatically translating them into control signals, the system maintains safe operation while eliminating the costs associated with prolonged training programs. The technical complexity is shifted from operator skill development to automated system processing, reducing acquisition and operating costs.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an operating unit for a working machine with at least one boom, wherein the operating device is configured to generate control signals for controlling the working machine depending on at least one joint position of a hand of an operator and wherein the operating device comprises at least one operating unit.