Linked Operator Interface Help System for Machine Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machine operator interfaces are inefficient for new operators, as they lack comprehensive help features that provide information on machine operating modes and functions, leading to increased mental workload and frustration during training.
Innovation Solution
An operator interface system that includes a help request device generating a help signal, a controller communicating with operator interface devices to provide information on requested machine functions, and the ability to prevent unintended actuation of machine functions during information retrieval, allowing operators to learn about machine functions without activating them unintentionally.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a help button feature is added to provide information about machine functions, then operator training effectiveness is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The help system is nested within the existing operator interface structure. When the help button is activated, it nestedly displays information panels that contain embedded links to related functions and modes, creating a hierarchical information architecture that provides comprehensive help without overwhelming the operator with interface complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller acts as an intermediary between the help button and the information display system. It processes help requests, retrieves appropriate information about machine functions and modes, and presents them in a standardized format, thereby managing the complexity of information delivery without increasing the perceived interface complexity for the operator.
2Loss of information
If comprehensive information about all machine functions is provided, then operator knowledge is improved, but information retrieval time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller pre-organizes and stores information about all machine functions, modes, and controls in a structured database before the operator needs it. This preliminary organization allows the system to quickly retrieve and display only the specific information relevant to the currently selected function or mode, rather than presenting all possible information at once.
Solution Approach 2:
The help system segments information by machine function and operating mode. When an operator selects a specific function, the system divides and displays only the relevant controls and parameters for that function, with optional links to related topics. This segmentation prevents information overload and reduces retrieval time by presenting focused, context-specific information.
3Reliability
If the help button activates machine functions during information display, then functional testing is improved, but safety decreases due to unintended actuation
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the state of machine controls based on help mode activation. When the help button is pressed and information is being displayed, the controller dynamically disables or locks the corresponding machine function controls to prevent unintended actuation. This dynamic state change allows the system to maintain safety during information retrieval while still enabling functional testing when help mode is not active.
Data Source
AI summary
An operator interface for a machine is disclosed. The operator interface may have an operator interface device for receiving operator input corresponding to a requested machine function, wherein a machine function signal is generated in response to the received operator input. The operator interface may also have a help request device configured to receive an operator's request for information and generate a help signal. The operator interface may further have a controller in communication with the operator interface device and the help request device. The controller may be configured to provide information to the operator in response to receiving the help signal and the machine function signal. The information may relate to the requested machine function.