Handle Layout for Ergonomic Control and Clear Status Visibility

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing work apparatuses with bike-type handlebars face interference between operator-controlled elements and ergonomic work movements, leading to inefficient operation and reduced visibility of operational information.

Innovation Solution

A handle design with a shaft featuring a first operator-controlled element adjacent to the free end, an indication arrangement near the fastening end, and ergonomic holding sections to allow for ergonomic movements and clear visibility of operational information without interference.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If additional operator-controlled elements are provided on the handle for controlling apparatus functions, then the control capability is improved, but the ergonomic performance deteriorates due to interference with work movements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol capabilityVSAvoidergonomic performance
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The handle is divided into functionally distinct zones: the first operator-controlled element is positioned in the upper region for primary control functions, while the indication arrangement is positioned in the lower region adjacent to the fastening end for displaying operational information. This spatial segmentation allows each zone to serve its specific purpose without interfering with the operator's grip and work movements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Loss of information

If the indication arrangement is positioned closer to the free end for better visibility, then the information display is improved, but the ergonomic operation deteriorates due to interference with work movements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevisibility of operational informationVSAvoidergonomic work movements
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The indication arrangement is positioned in the longitudinal dimension adjacent to the fastening end, which is a different spatial zone from where the operator's hand grips the handle. This dimensional placement ensures that the indication arrangement does not protrude into the operator's working space, allowing unobstructed viewing of operational information while maintaining full ergonomic freedom for work movements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Ease of operation

If the operator grip position is extended along the shaft, then the ergonomic freedom is improved, but the risk of accidentally touching the indication arrangement increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveergonomic freedomVSAvoidaccidental activation risk
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The indication arrangement is extracted from the operator's grip zone and repositioned adjacent to the fastening end, which is outside the normal grip area. This extraction eliminates the possibility of accidental touching or activation by the operator's hand, while the operator retains full freedom to grip the handle at any position along the shaft for ergonomic work movements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Data Source

PatentUS20260027698A1Work apparatus
Publication Date: 2026.01.29 ANDREAS STIHL AG & CO KG
  • US20260027698A1 patent drawing
  • US20260027698A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A handle is for a manually operated work apparatus. The handle has a shaft, which has a fastening end and a free end. The handle is fixed on the fastening end. The handle has a first operator-controlled element for controlling the work apparatus. The first operator-controlled element is arranged adjacent to the free end of the shaft. The handle has an indication arrangement including an indication element for conveying operational information to the operator. The indication arrangement is arranged adjacent to the fastening end of the shaft.