Utility Vehicle Joystick With Integrated Control Ring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current joysticks for utility vehicles require operators to perform multiple lever movements, leading to reduced productivity and ergonomics, as they often necessitate changing grips to control different functions, resulting in operator strain and decreased user friendliness.
Innovation Solution
A multifunctional joystick design featuring a lever arm for tilt-based control, a control ring for rotation-based control positioned below the grip body, and a rocker for additional pivot-based control, allowing all functions to be accessed without changing grip position, thereby enhancing ergonomics and user friendliness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple levers are used to control different functions, then the control functions are separated, but the operator must change grip position and this reduces productivity and increases operator strain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple control functions into a single integrated joystick unit. The lever arm controls primary functions while additional controls (buttons, knobs, rockers) are integrated onto the grip body, allowing the operator to control multiple functions without changing grip position, thus merging previously separate controls into one unified interface
Solution Approach 2:
The joystick grip body is designed as a universal control station that performs multiple functions. It includes the lever arm for primary control, buttons for secondary functions, knobs for tertiary functions, and rockers for quaternary functions, all accessible from a single grip position, making the device multi-functional and eliminating the need for separate controls
2Adaptability or versatility
If a rotatable operational member is added to the grip body, then a fourth control function is provided, but the operator must loosen grip to control it, making simultaneous control of other functions harder
Solution Approach 1:
Different control elements are placed in specific locations on the grip body that correspond to natural finger positions. Buttons are positioned for index finger access, knobs for middle finger, and rockers for thumb, allowing each finger to control specific functions independently while maintaining a stable grip with the palm
3Adaptability or versatility
If more control functions are implemented in the joystick, then the functionality is enhanced, but the space requirements conflict with keeping the joystick ergonomic
Solution Approach 1:
The control elements are arranged in three-dimensional space around the grip body rather than spreading them out horizontally. Buttons, knobs, and rockers are positioned at different heights, angles, and radial distances from the center, utilizing vertical and radial dimensions to pack multiple controls into a compact ergonomic form factor
Data Source
AI summary
Joystick for maneuvering of a utility vehicle, wherein said joystick (1) at least comprises: a lever arm, a base, a grip body, and a rocker, wherein said lever arm is arranged such that it can tilt relative said base, said grip body (4) is fixedly arranged relative said lever arm, wherein said grip body is provided with a grip portion, which at least facilitates gripping of said grip body with a thumb and an opposite finger, and said rocker is provided in the area of said grip portion and can pivot relative said grip body wherein a control ring is provided below said grip portion and arranged such that it can pivot relative an axis essentially parallel with the central axis of said lever arm and relative said grip body, wherein said grip body is provided upon a carrier, wherein said carrier is fixedly attached to said lever arm and comprises a base part, a holder and sensing means, where said holder extends from said base part in a direction essentially parallel to the central axis of said lever arm, said grip body essentially extends from said base part such that it encloses said holder, and where said sensing means are provided within said holder, and is adapted to sense movement of at least said control ring and said rocker.