Repositionable Input Device Alignment for Ergonomic Hand Engagement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Operators face challenges in engaging with input devices for controlling repositionable arms and end effectors in autonomous and semiautonomous electronic devices, particularly when the devices are not directly visible or are obstructed, leading to difficulties in maintaining alignment and ergonomic positioning.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that includes an input device, a hand detection system, and a control unit to detect the operator's hand and move the input device to a more ergonomic grasping position upon a trigger condition, ensuring alignment with the associated end effector, which is displayed to the operator for intuitive control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the input device is repositioned to improve ergonomics and visibility, then operator engagement improves, but alignment with the end effector may be lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary repositioning of the input device to an ergonomic position before the operator needs to engage with it, based on predicted hand trajectory and timing. This allows the operator to approach and engage the device from a comfortable position while the system maintains awareness of the required alignment position, restoring alignment automatically when engagement is detected.
2Measurement precision
If the input device remains stationary to maintain alignment, then control precision is maintained, but operator fatigue increases due to poor ergonomics
Solution Approach 1:
The input device transitions from a stationary aligned position to a dynamic repositionable system that adjusts based on operator hand position and engagement state. The device moves along a pre-calculated trajectory to balance alignment requirements with ergonomic considerations, reducing operator fatigue while maintaining control precision through automated position management.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method of assisting operator engagement with input devices includes a repositionable structure configured to support a physical input device, a hand detection system, and a control unit. The repositionable structure includes one or more actuators. The physical input device is configured to be operated by a hand of an operator. The control unit is configured to detect the hand of the operator using the hand detection system and in response to a trigger condition, command the one or more actuators to move the input device from a first orientation to a second orientation, wherein the second orientation is closer to a grasping orientation of the hand than the first orientation is to the grasping orientation of the hand.