Work Machine Joystick Control System with Selective Axis Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
The use of a foot pedal in conjunction with multi-axis joysticks in work machines results in 'dead functionality' of the joystick, failing to provide the expected response and feel for the operator, as the joystick becomes non-functional when the foot pedal performs a function typically associated with it.
Innovation Solution
A control system that includes an input device transmitting an electronic selection signal, an electronic controller, and joysticks or foot pedals that can move between specific positions and are selectively non-movable in response to an electronic configuration signal, allowing the system to manage the functionality of the joysticks and foot pedals electronically.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a foot pedal is used to control functions typically associated with multi-axis joysticks, then the foot pedal can provide additional control capability, but the joystick experiences dead functionality and fails to provide expected response and feel
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts joystick functionality based on operating conditions. When the foot pedal is activated, the control system detects this state and dynamically modifies the joystick's operational parameters, either limiting its movement range or disabling specific axes to prevent conflicting control inputs. This dynamic adaptation ensures the joystick remains responsive and provides appropriate feedback while the foot pedal is in use, resolving the dead functionality issue.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system implements feedback mechanisms to monitor the state of both the foot pedal and joystick. When the foot pedal is activated, the system provides feedback signals that adjust the joystick's operational characteristics in real-time. This feedback loop ensures the joystick maintains proper response and feel by preventing it from operating in a dead or unresponsive state during foot pedal activation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the joystick is allowed to move along all axes independently, then the joystick provides full control functionality, but conflicting control inputs occur when the foot pedal performs joystick-associated functions
Solution Approach 1:
The control system applies preliminary anti-action by detecting foot pedal activation before conflicting joystick inputs can cause problems. When the foot pedal is activated, the system proactively limits or disables specific joystick axes that would otherwise conflict with the foot pedal's function. This preventive measure eliminates potential control conflicts before they occur, ensuring reliable and consistent control inputs without sacrificing overall joystick functionality.
3Reliability
If the joystick is completely disabled when the foot pedal is activated, then control conflicts are eliminated, but the joystick loses all functionality during foot pedal operation
Solution Approach 1:
The control system applies local quality by selectively limiting specific axes or degrees of freedom of the joystick rather than disabling the entire device. When the foot pedal is activated, only the specific joystick axes that would conflict with the foot pedal's function are restricted, while other axes remain fully operational. This localized approach maintains control input consistency for critical functions while preserving overall joystick versatility for non-conflicting operations.
Data Source
AI summary
A control system for a work machine is disclosed that may include an input device, an electronic controller, and a joystick. The input device may be configured to transmit an electronic selection signal. The electronic controller may be in electronic communication with the input device, be configured to receive the electronic selection signal, and transmit an electronic configuration signal. The joystick may be in operative communication with at least one of a ground engaging member and a work implement and be configured to regulate movement of at least one of these. Further, the joystick may be in electronic communication with the electronic controller and may be configured to move along multiple axes. The joystick may be further configured to receive the electronic configuration signal and be selectively non-movable along at least one of its axes in response to this signal.