Joystick Integrated Track Control for Excavator Visibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Operators of track-type machines face challenges in controlling speed and direction, particularly due to the limited dexterity of their feet when using foot pedals, which can impact visibility and make it difficult to manage implement controls simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
A propulsion system with an operator station featuring two joysticks, each movable in multiple orientations, with input devices that adjust drive motor speeds and directions, allowing for independent control of each track assembly without obstructing the operator's view.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If foot pedals with hand levers are used for track control, then the operator can control track speed and direction, but the operator's visibility to the primary working space is obstructed and dexterity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the track control function from the foot pedal location and relocates it to the joystick, which is positioned in the operator's line of sight. This allows the control mechanism to be removed from the obstructing foot pedal position while maintaining full track control capability through the joystick's integrated input devices.
2Ease of operation
If foot pedals with hand levers are used for track control, then the operator can control track speed and direction, but the operator's dexterity in controlling fine movements is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the track control input devices with the joystick, combining thumb-operated controls on the joystick handle with the implement control joystick. This integration allows the operator to use their hands, which have superior dexterity, to control both track movement and implement functions from a single location, eliminating the precision limitations of foot-operated controls.
3Ease of operation
If foot pedals are used for track control, then the operator can control track speed and direction, but the operator cannot simultaneously manage implement controls
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the joystick a multi-functional control device that can operate both track control and implement control functions. By integrating multiple input devices on the joystick including thumb-operated controls, the single joystick position serves multiple control purposes, allowing the operator to manage both track movement and implement functions simultaneously without needing to switch between separate control locations.
4Ease of operation
If hand levers are attached to foot pedals for additional control interface, then the operator can use hands to control track, but the control setup becomes more complex and visibility is impacted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple control functions into the single joystick position, merging track control and implement control interfaces at one location. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate foot pedals with attached hand levers, reducing the overall structural complexity while maintaining versatile control capabilities through the integrated joystick system.
Data Source
AI summary
A track-type machine includes first and second ground-engaging track assemblies, each having a drive motor, and a propulsion system including an operator station with first and second joysticks, and a travel control system including input devices resident on the first and second joysticks. The input devices are adjustable to vary at least one of a speed or a direction of the drive motors in the track assemblies. Adjustment of the drive motor speed can be in proportion to an adjustment of the corresponding input device.