Manipulation Lever Reaction Force Control for Symmetric Operator Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing manipulation mechanisms for construction machines require fine and accurate fingering for cross switch operation, leading to increased mental load and reduced work efficiency due to asymmetrical reaction forces in positive and negative manipulation directions.
Innovation Solution
A system that controls manipulation reaction force by using an actuator to apply forces corresponding to detected manipulation amounts, ensuring symmetrical perceived reaction forces about zero manipulation amount in both positive and negative directions, thereby improving operator operability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a cross switch is provided on the manipulation lever for fine control, then manipulation precision is improved, but the mental load on the operator increases and work efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical cross switch system with a sensor-based detection system. The operating manner detection sensor detects the manipulation amount and direction of the manipulation lever, and the control unit processes this information to control the actuator. This substitution eliminates the need for fine finger pressing operations while maintaining precise control, thereby reducing mental load and improving work efficiency.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the manipulation mechanism uses asymmetrical reaction forces for positive and negative directions, then it adapts to natural muscle action differences, but the operator cannot grasp the manipulation amount accurately and operability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry in reverse by creating symmetry where it is needed. The control unit is configured to control the actuator such that the perceived reaction force is symmetrical about the manipulation amount of zero, even though the physical reaction forces may differ. This means that for equal manipulation amounts in positive and negative directions, the operator perceives equal reaction forces, enabling accurate grasp of manipulation amount and improving operability while maintaining adaptability to natural muscle actions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the actuator is controlled to produce asymmetrical reaction forces matching muscle action differences, then biological adaptability is improved, but symmetry in perceived reaction force is lost and operability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by differentiating between the physical reaction force and the perceived reaction force. The control unit adjusts the actuator control based on the manipulation direction and amount, creating asymmetrical physical forces that adapt to muscle actions, while simultaneously ensuring that the perceived reaction force remains symmetrical for accurate manipulation amount grasping. This localized differentiation resolves the contradiction between biological adaptability and operability.
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
This system enhances operator control by equalizing manipulation amounts and perceived reaction forces in both directions, reducing operator fatigue and improving work efficiency by making manipulation more intuitive and balanced.
Implementation Method 1
cause a manipulation reaction force to act on a manipulation mechanism in a direction corresponding to a manipulation direction detected by an operating manner detection sensor
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a system and the like that can improve operability of a manipulation mechanism for an operator. Manipulation reaction forces f1(θ) and f2(φ) acting on manipulation levers 2111 and 2112 are controlled by controlling operation of actuators 214. At this time, the manipulation reaction forces f1(θ) and f2(φ) are controlled to cause reaction forces F1(θ) and F2(φ) in manipulation directions opposite to each other perceived by the operator through manipulation levers 2111 and 2112 (manipulation mechanism) to realize symmetry about a manipulation amount of zero, within a manipulation amount range in a positive manipulation direction and a manipulation amount range in a negative manipulation direction.