Integrated Cab Displays for Unobstructed Power Machine Visibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Operators of power machines, such as excavators, face challenges in obtaining real-time operational data and maintaining situational awareness due to obstructions like lift arms, which hinder their ability to effectively control work operations and monitor the surrounding environment.
Innovation Solution
The integration of a display system within the operator station, featuring multiple displays on the sides of the station, electronically communicates with a control system to receive and display operational data from sensors, including image data from sensors positioned on the telescopic lift arm, allowing operators to view critical information without diverting attention from the work area.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If displays are integrated into the operator station sides, then operator situational awareness and control are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple displays (first display on the left side, second display on the right side) directly into the operator station structure, merging the display function with the operator station. This integration provides operators with real-time operational data and camera feeds without requiring separate external monitoring equipment, thereby improving control while the integrated design helps manage system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The display system serves multiple functions: it displays operational data from sensors, shows camera feeds from work elements, and provides augmented reality information. This multi-functionality allows a single integrated system to replace what would otherwise require multiple separate systems, improving ease of operation without proportionally increasing complexity.
2Loss of information
If multiple displays are integrated into the operator station, then information accessibility is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The display system is segmented into multiple independent displays (first display and second display) positioned on different sides of the operator station. Each display can be independently configured and manufactured, allowing for modular assembly that reduces overall manufacturing complexity while providing comprehensive information coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent positions displays on vertical side surfaces of the operator station rather than only on horizontal surfaces. This three-dimensional integration utilizes available space more efficiently, allowing information to be accessible from multiple angles and reducing the need for additional display units that would increase manufacturing complexity.
3Loss of information
If displays show augmented reality information, then operator awareness of work area is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses camera feeds as intermediaries to capture visual information from work elements, and the display system acts as a mediator to present this information along with operational data to the operator. This intermediary approach provides augmented reality capabilities without requiring complex direct sensing and processing systems, thereby improving work area awareness while managing system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
An integrated display system for power machines. The integrated display system includes a plurality of displays. Each of the plurality of displays are positioned between two layers of transparent material and at least two of the plurality of displays are integrated into different sides of a power machine.