Integrated Vehicle Operating Lever for Simultaneous Speed and Implement Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing operating devices for agricultural or industrial utility vehicles require operators to switch between shift levers for adjusting vehicle speed and controlling implements, leading to complex and tiring operations, compromising safety and ergonomics.
Innovation Solution
The integration of a shift lever with a latching position that allows deflection in two directions, enabling simultaneous control of vehicle speed and implement functions, eliminating the need for separate operating devices and allowing intuitive operation with reduced physical effort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If separate operating devices (shift lever for vehicle speed and joystick for implement control) are used, then each function can be controlled independently, but the device complexity increases and operator fatigue increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the shift lever for vehicle speed control and the joystick for implement control into a single integrated operating device. The control element is mounted on the shift lever, allowing both functions to be operated from one location, thereby reducing device complexity and improving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated operating device serves multiple functions: it controls both vehicle speed (via shift lever movement) and implement operations (via joystick deflection). This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate operating devices, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining full operational capability.
2Ease of operation
If separate operating devices are used for vehicle speed and implement control, then each function has dedicated control, but the quantity of operating devices increases leading to more complex operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functionality of two separate operating devices (shift lever and joystick) into a single integrated unit. The control element is mounted on the shift lever, allowing both vehicle speed control and implement control to be performed from one location, thereby reducing the quantity of operating devices from two to one.
3Productivity
If operators must switch between shift lever and joystick, then each device can be optimized for its specific function, but operation time increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines vehicle speed control and implement control into a single operating device, eliminating the need for operators to switch between separate devices. This integration reduces operation time and improves productivity by allowing continuous control of both functions from one location.
Solution Approach 2:
The control element is pre-mounted on the shift lever in an optimal position that allows simultaneous or sequential access to both vehicle speed control and implement control functions. This preliminary arrangement eliminates the time loss associated with reaching for and switching between separate devices.
4Duration of action of moving object
If separate operating devices are used, then each function can be controlled with dedicated equipment, but operator fatigue increases over extended periods
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple control functions into a single operating device located within easy reach of the operator. This consolidation reduces the physical effort and movements required during extended operation periods, thereby reducing operator fatigue while maintaining full functional control.
Data Source
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AI summary
The device (10) has an actuating lever (20) actuated by hand and to adjust speed of a vehicle i.e. agricultural or industrial commercial vehicle. The lever is adjustable in a longitudinal direction (22) for adjusting the speed of the vehicle. The lever has an operating unit (24) i.e. joystick, to control an operating tool. The operating unit is arranged and movable together with the lever in the longitudinal direction. The operating tool has a hydraulic, pneumatic and/or electrical actuator controlled using the operating units.