Lever-Type Operating Apparatus Compact Design via Non-Contact Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Lever-type throttle operating apparatuses for vehicles, such as watercraft and snowmobiles, are often bulky due to the need for a large case to accommodate a link mechanism and detection sensor, making them cumbersome and inefficient in size.
Innovation Solution
A lever-type operating apparatus with a lever rotatably supported by a rotational shaft within a case, featuring a detection device comprising a magnet and angle sensor integrated on the shaft, and return springs to urge the lever to its initial state, allowing for compact design and stable operation while detecting the rotational angle for engine control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a link mechanism is provided extending from the lever proximal end to detect rotational operation, then the rotational angle can be detected, but the apparatus size becomes large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical link mechanism with a non-contact detection system using a detector (such as a magnetic sensor) that detects the rotational angle of the lever directly without requiring physical connection through links. This substitution eliminates the need for a large case to accommodate the link mechanism while maintaining accurate rotational detection capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts and eliminates the link mechanism from the apparatus, using only the essential components (lever, rotational shaft, detector, and return spring) to achieve the detection function. This removal of unnecessary components directly reduces the case size while preserving the core functionality of rotational angle detection
2Volume of stationary object
If the detector and return spring are assembled on to the rotational shaft, then the apparatus can be downsized, but the assembly precision requirement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the detector and return spring into a single integrated assembly that is mounted together on the rotational shaft. This merging of components reduces the overall apparatus size and simplifies the structure, while the design accommodates standard manufacturing tolerances through proper selection of component dimensions and mounting features
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
The compact design enhances durability and accuracy of the apparatus, reduces the risk of water intrusion, and provides a stable and responsive operational feel, while maintaining effective engine control through non-contact detection, thus addressing the size and efficiency issues of traditional designs.
Implementation Method 1
a return spring (6, 7) provided in the case 2, wherein the lever 1 is normally urged to an initial state by the return spring (6, 7)
Implementation Method 2
a detector 3, 4 provided in the case 2, wherein the detector 3, 4 is configured to detect a rotational operation angle of the lever 1
Data Source
AI summary
A lever-type operating apparatus is provided with a lever provided in a vicinity of a handgrip on a handlebar and a case fixed to the handlebar. A rotational shaft is provided in the case. The lever is rotatably supported by the rotational shafts. A return spring is provided in the case. The lever is normally urged to an initial state by the return spring. A detector is provided in the case. The detector is configured to detect a rotational operation angle of the lever. A driving source of a vehicle is controlled based on the rotational operation angle detected by the detector. The detector and the return spring are mounted on to the rotational shaft.