Modular Control System for Machinery Interface Complexity
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Solution Overview
Problem
User interface devices for operating machinery often include unnecessary features, leading to increased complexity and training time, and a higher risk of accidents due to the complexity of the interface.
Innovation Solution
A modular control system with a receiving structure that allows for the attachment of various devices, each capable of transmitting short-range communications, enabling a customizable interface tailored to specific machinery operations, with features like actuatable buttons and sensors for stimulus detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a standard-issue user interface device includes many user-actuatable implements and input/output devices, then the device can potentially control various functions, but the interface complexity increases and training time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control panel is divided into multiple modular device slots, each capable of housing a separate functional device. This segmentation allows the system to provide only the specific functions needed for particular operations, rather than including all possible functions in a single complex interface. Each module can be independently selected and configured based on operational requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The control panel configuration is made dynamic through the ability to reposition, add, or remove modular devices from different slots. This dynamic reconfigurability allows the interface to adapt to different operational contexts and user needs, providing versatility without permanent complexity. The system can be customized for specific tasks by arranging modules according to the required functional subset.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a standard-issue user interface device includes many user-actuatable implements and input/output devices, then the device can potentially control various functions, but training time increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the control panel into discrete modular devices, each with a specific function, the system reduces the cognitive load on users. Instead of learning the location and function of numerous implements across a large panel, users learn a smaller set of dedicated modules for each operation type, significantly reducing training time while maintaining full functional capability.
Solution Approach 2:
Each modular device is designed with localized functionality and can be positioned in optimal locations on the control panel. This allows frequently used functions to be placed within easy reach, and related functions to be grouped together, creating an intuitive layout that reduces learning time and improves operational efficiency.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a standard-issue user interface device includes many user-actuatable implements and input/output devices, then the device can potentially control various functions, but the likelihood of accidents increases due to decision-making delay
Solution Approach 1:
Segmenting controls into distinct modular devices with clear visual and functional separation reduces the likelihood of accidental activation. Each module's dedicated function and isolated position make it easier for operators to identify and intentionally activate the correct control, reducing decision-making delays and preventing wrong-button presses that could lead to accidents.
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic reconfigurability of the modular control panel allows safety-critical functions to be positioned in optimal, easily accessible locations that can be adapted based on operational context. This flexibility enables the design of safer interfaces for different tasks, reducing operator error and improving response time in critical situations.
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 modular system simplifies the user interface by allowing only necessary features to be used, reducing training time and accident risk through a customizable and operation-specific control system.
Implementation Method 1
an energy harvesting module including at least one of: an inductive power-harvesting unit, or a piezo-electric-based energy harvesting unit
Implementation Method 2
an energy harvesting module including at least one of: an inductive power-harvesting unit, or a piezo-electric-based energy harvesting unit
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are devices, systems, apparatus, methods, products, and other implementations, including a control system that includes a receiving structure to receive a plurality of modular devices, with one or more of the plurality of modular devices being coupled into respective locations on the receiving structure and with each of the one or more of the plurality of modular devices configured to transmit a short-range communication in response to receiving a respective stimulus by the each of the one or more of the plurality of modular devices. The control system further includes a communication module to communicate with the one or more of the plurality of modular devices coupled to the receiving structure, and a controller configured to perform a respective operation in response to receiving a short-range message from a respective one of the one or more of the plurality of modular devices.