Implement Height Control Using Switch and LED Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a cost-effective method to control an implement associated with a vehicle, particularly for off-road vehicles, without the expense of a robust display, which is often beyond the budget of operators in developing markets.
Innovation Solution
A system that allows users to enter a programming mode or guidance mode using a switch with a light source for controlling implement height, utilizing a height sensor and actuator to maintain a target height based on a guidance program, eliminating the need for a robust display.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a robust display is used to support user interface for control of implement, then the control functionality and user interface quality are improved, but the cost increases beyond desired sales price range
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the display component from the control system, eliminating it entirely. Instead of using a robust display to show status and receive input, the system uses direct switch inputs with LED feedback indicators. This extraction removes the expensive display while preserving core control functionality through alternative means (switches with LED status indication).
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the expensive robust display with inexpensive components: simple switches for input and LEDs for output feedback. These cheap components achieve the same functional purpose (user interaction and status indication) without the high cost of a robust display designed for harsh environments.
2Ease of manufacture
If a robust display is eliminated to reduce cost, then the manufacturing cost decreases to desired price range, but the user interface capability and control functionality are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback through LED indicators that provide visual confirmation to the operator about system status, mode changes, and operational parameters. This feedback mechanism compensates for the absence of a display by providing essential information through simple LED signals, maintaining user interface capability without requiring expensive display hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The switch assembly serves multiple functions: it acts as both the input device (for operator commands) and the output device (through integrated LED indicators that display status information). This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate display hardware while maintaining comprehensive control and feedback capabilities.
3Ease of manufacture
If simple switch and light source interface is used instead of robust display, then the cost is reduced, but the information display capability and system complexity are affected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the information display into multiple individual LED indicators, each representing specific system parameters or status conditions. Rather than attempting to display all information on a single display device, the system uses multiple discrete LED elements to convey different pieces of information, making the information accessible through simple visual cues without requiring complex display hardware.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables cost-effective control of vehicle implements by using a simple switch and light source interface, reducing costs and maintaining implement height accuracy without the need for a robust display, suitable for off-road vehicles.
Implementation Method 1
readiness for each successive input is indicated by a light source
Implementation Method 2
The observed height is controlled in accordance with the guidance program (e.g., the target height) if the system or the data processor is operating in a guidance mode
Data Source
AI summary
A method or system for controlling a vehicle comprises entering a programming mode or a guidance mode based on user input to a switch. The user can enter a guidance program in accordance with a predetermined sequence of inputs of the switch by the user, where readiness for each successive input is indicated by a light source. A guidance mode is managed for controlling an implement height in accordance with the entered guidance program. A height sensor can sense an observed height or elevation of an implement of the vehicle (e.g., relative to the absolute target height of the implement above the ground). The observed height is controlled in accordance with the guidance program (e.g., the target height) if the system or the data processor is operating in a guidance mode.