Joystick Resistive Force Retention for Work Machine Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic control systems for work machines do not allow operators to release control of one joystick while maintaining the position of the other, limiting the operator's ability to attend to other operations during directional control tasks.
Innovation Solution
An electronic control system that includes two joysticks with resistive devices and a controller, which generates a resistive force to maintain the operational position of one joystick when the operator releases it, allowing the other joystick to be controlled for directional movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the operator maintains both joysticks in operational position to control work machine movement, then directional control is achieved, but the operator cannot attend to other operations requiring a free hand
Solution Approach 1:
The resistive device automatically maintains the joystick in the operational position without requiring continuous operator input. The system serves itself by generating the necessary resistive force to counteract gravitational and inertial forces that would otherwise cause the joystick to drift from its set position, freeing the operator's hand while maintaining control reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical linkage and cable systems with an electronic control system that uses resistive devices (such as magnetic or electromagnetic actuators) to maintain joystick position. This substitution eliminates the need for continuous mechanical force application by the operator while maintaining precise position control through electronic feedback and actuation
2Ease of operation
If a mechanical locking mechanism is used to maintain joystick position, then hands-free operation is enabled, but haptic feedback and realistic return to center position are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The resistive device dynamically adjusts its characteristics to provide appropriate haptic feedback during joystick operation. When the joystick is moved from center position, the resistive force increases to simulate the mechanical resistance of a locking mechanism, providing realistic tactile feedback to the operator while maintaining the ability to hold position hands-free
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms that monitor joystick position and adjust the resistive force accordingly. This feedback loop provides the operator with tactile information about the joystick's state and enables the system to maintain precise position control while generating realistic haptic feedback that mimics traditional mechanical systems
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 the operator to release one joystick while maintaining its position, allowing for hands-free operation and improved control of the work machine's movement, enhancing operational efficiency and safety.
Implementation Method 1
A first resistive device may be operatively coupled to the first joystick and configured to generate a resistive force about the first axis to selectively retain the first joystick in the operational position
Implementation Method 2
A second resistive device may be operatively coupled to the second joystick and configured to generate a resistive force about the second axis to selectively retain the second joystick in the operational position
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic control system for controlling movement of a work machine is disclosed. The control system may include a first and a second joystick, each of the first and second joysticks configured to move between a neutral and an operational position. Moreover a first and second resistive device may be operatively coupled to the first and second joysticks respectively. The first and second resistive devices may be configured to generate a resistive force to selectively retain the first and second joysticks in the operational position. Additionally, the control system may include a controller in communication with the first and second joysticks and the first and second resistive devices. The controller may transmit a first and second resistive force signal to activate one of the first and second resistive devices to generate the resistive force such that one of the first and second joysticks is retained in the operational position.