Handling Machine Control Console Versatility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing handling machines face a challenge in achieving versatile use without compromising the simplicity of their manufacture, particularly in terms of control console integration and operation configurations.
Innovation Solution
A handling machine with a control console that can operate in at least three configurations: directly on the chassis, on a mobile platform, and remotely, facilitated by a control unit that determines and adapts operations based on the console's configuration, using wired and radio communication systems to simplify manufacturing and enhance versatility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed control device is permanently installed in the cockpit, then the machine has a stable control system, but the manufacturing complexity increases and versatility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The control console is designed to perform multiple functions across different configurations: it can be installed in the cockpit (first configuration), mounted on a mobile platform like a basket (second configuration), or used as a remote control (third configuration). This multi-functionality allows a single control console design to replace multiple specialized control devices, achieving versatility without proportionally increasing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The control system dynamically adapts its behavior based on the detected configuration. The control unit includes a system for determining the configuration of use and automatically adjusts control parameters, safety limits, and operational modes according to whether the console is in the cockpit, on a mobile platform, or being used remotely. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to maintain optimal performance across different configurations without requiring separate fixed control systems for each mode
2Adaptability or versatility
If the control console can operate in multiple configurations, then the machine becomes more versatile, but the difficulty of determining and managing configurations increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system automatically detects and determines the configuration of use without requiring manual intervention or complex external detection systems. The control unit includes an integrated system that self-determines whether the console is in the first configuration (cockpit), second configuration (mobile platform), or third configuration (remote), and automatically adjusts operational parameters accordingly. This self-service approach simplifies configuration management by eliminating the need for separate detection mechanisms for each configuration state
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the control console is used remotely at a distance from the chassis, then operator safety is improved, but the reliability of control signal transmission may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The control system incorporates an intermediary communication architecture that maintains reliable signal transmission between the control console and the machine's control unit regardless of distance or configuration. This intermediary system handles signal routing, error correction, and protocol management to ensure consistent and reliable control signal transmission whether the console is in the cockpit or being used remotely, thereby maintaining reliability while enabling safe remote operation
Data Source
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AI summary
A handling machine (1) comprising: - a wheeled chassis (2), - a system (3) for handling a load and/or a person, - a control console (5) for controlling the members (4) for driving on the ground and for controlling the handling system (3) of the machine (1), - a control unit (6). The control console (5) has at least three selectively activatable use configurations. The first and second use configurations are use configurations in which the control console (5) is carried directly or indirectly by the chassis (2) of the machine (1). The third use configuration is a configuration in which the control console (5) is able to operate away from the chassis (2) and from the handling system (3) of the machine (1). The control unit (6) comprises a system (7) for determining the use configuration of the control console (5) and is configured to control the machine (1) according to the determined use configuration.