Implement-Aware Control Mapping for Intuitive Machine Attachments
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Solution Overview
Problem
Operators of machines like skid steer loaders face productivity and safety issues due to the need to learn various button and input combinations for different implements, leading to misconfiguration and downtime, especially when switching between infrequently used implements.
Innovation Solution
A control system with a processor and memory that detects the attached implement, determines if a configuration is stored, and configures the machine control components accordingly, either by using stored data or creating a new configuration based on local or remote data, allowing intuitive control of the implement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual configuration of buttons and inputs is performed each time the implement is changed, then the control system can be adapted to the specific implement, but this leads to misconfiguration and confusion of the operator that may negatively affect productivity and safety
Solution Approach 1:
The control system automatically detects the attached implement and configures the buttons and inputs without operator intervention. The system self-identifies the implement type through detection mechanisms and autonomously maps the control functions, eliminating manual configuration requirements and preventing misconfiguration errors.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system pre-configures implement-specific control mappings in its memory before the operator needs to use the implement. When an implement is detected, the system retrieves and applies the pre-prepared configuration, ensuring the controls are ready for immediate intuitive operation without requiring operator setup actions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the operator learns a large variety of button and input combinations to operate different implements, then the control system can support multiple implements, but this requires downtime to refresh knowledge resulting in reduced productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The control system pre-configures implement-specific control mappings in its memory before the operator needs to use the implement. When an implement is detected, the system retrieves and applies the pre-prepared configuration, ensuring the controls are ready for immediate intuitive operation without requiring operator setup actions.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system provides location-specific control mappings where buttons and inputs are arranged according to the spatial layout and operational characteristics of each specific implement. This local adaptation ensures that controls for each implement are optimized for that implement's specific geometry and function, making operation intuitive without requiring broad general knowledge.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the control system configures buttons and inputs for each implement, then the system can adapt to different implements, but the complexity of managing multiple configurations increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system employs a universal detection and configuration framework that can identify and adapt to multiple different implement types through a single integrated system. The universal architecture uses standardized detection protocols and configuration management, allowing the system to handle diverse implements without requiring separate dedicated control systems for each implement type.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system creates and stores digital representations (copies) of implement configurations in its memory. Each implement type has its control mapping copied and stored as a template, allowing the system to quickly retrieve and apply the appropriate configuration without physically reconfiguring hardware. This digital copying approach manages complexity by virtualizing the configuration management.
Data Source
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AI summary
A machine includes a first implement, a first machine control component, and a control system which includes a memory and a processor in communication with the memory. The processor executes instructions stored in the memory to cause the control system to detect the first implement, determine whether a first configuration corresponding to the first implement is stored in the memory, and configure the first machine control component based on the first configuration when the first configuration is stored in the memory.