Modular Implement Control Console for One-Handed Machine Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing control consoles for work machines lack ergonomic one-handed operation capabilities and modularity, leading to operator discomfort, reduced efficiency, and increased production costs due to the need for multiple, incompatible control console configurations.
Innovation Solution
A modular implement control console with a universal mounting bracket and interchangeable implement control pods, allowing for concurrent one-handed operation of primary and secondary control inputs, and sharing common components across different work machines to enhance modularity and reduce inventory costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If control inputs are arranged in traditional configurations, then comprehensive control functionality is achieved, but one-handed concurrent operation becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The control inputs are arranged in a three-dimensional configuration around the joystick, utilizing vertical and radial dimensions rather than traditional two-dimensional flat layouts. Secondary controls are positioned at different heights and angles, allowing the operator's fingers to access multiple controls simultaneously while maintaining grip on the joystick with the thumb and palm.
Solution Approach 2:
Secondary control inputs are integrated into the housing structure surrounding the joystick, with some controls embedded in the joystick shaft itself. This nesting allows multiple control functions to be accessed from a compact central location, enabling one-handed operation while maintaining comprehensive control functionality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If unique control consoles are designed for each work machine configuration, then specific machine requirements are met, but manufacturing costs and inventory complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The control console is divided into modular components: a standardized base unit containing common controls and a universal mounting bracket, with interchangeable machine-specific modules that can be attached or removed. This segmentation allows the core console structure to be mass-produced once, while only the smaller specialized modules need to be manufactured in various configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
A universal mounting bracket and standardized interface design are implemented across all control console configurations. This universal base can accommodate different machine-specific modules through standardized connection mechanisms, allowing a single platform to serve multiple work machine applications without requiring entirely unique designs for each configuration.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple unique control console configurations are produced, then specific work machine requirements are satisfied, but supply chain inventory requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The control console system is segmented into a universal base platform and interchangeable machine-specific modules. This allows the majority of components (housing, mounting bracket, primary controls, wiring harnesses) to be standardized and produced in large quantities once, while only the smaller specialized modules need to be manufactured in multiple variants and stored in inventory.
Solution Approach 2:
Common components across all control console configurations are merged into a single standardized design, including the universal mounting bracket, base housing, and primary control inputs. This consolidation reduces the total number of unique parts that need to be manufactured and stored, while still allowing for machine-specific customization through modular attachments.
Data Source
AI summary
A work machine, an implement control console, a plurality of unique implement control pods, and a method of installing an implement control pod onto a work machine are disclosed. The work machine comprises a power unit, a locomotive device, an implement arm, a work tool, and an implement control console for controlling one or more functions of the work machine's components. The implement control console comprises a universal mounting bracket and an implement control pod, where the plurality of unique implement control pods may be installed, one at a time, to the universal mounting bracket. Advantageously, the plurality of unique implement control pods share a number of components, while the design of each implement control pod allows for concurrent one-handed operation.