Movable Control Console for Crane Operator Visibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Operators of truck-mounted lifting devices, such as cranes, face difficulties in observing the operation of the crane when it is used on the opposite side of the truck, leading to increased costs and complexity with multiple control consoles.
Innovation Solution
A movable control console with a body and pivotably connected legs that can shift between positions over the base, utilizing springs or a powered actuator to adjust its position, allowing the console to be easily moved based on operator preference and job requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple control consoles are provided, then operator visibility and control accessibility are improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The control console is made dynamically movable between multiple positions using pivotable legs that allow the console to shift from a first position to a second position and intermediate positions. This dynamic positioning capability enables a single console to serve multiple operational viewpoints, replacing the need for multiple fixed consoles while maintaining operator visibility and accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The single control console is designed to perform multiple functions by being positionable at different locations around the truck-mounted lifting device. The console can be moved to provide optimal control and observation angles for various operational scenarios, making one console universal for multiple operational positions that would otherwise require separate dedicated consoles.
2Device complexity
If a single control console is used, then device complexity is reduced, but operator visibility and control accessibility deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The pivotable leg mechanism enables the console to dynamically adjust its position between a first position and a second position, allowing operators to move the console to optimal viewing and control locations depending on the operational requirements, thereby maintaining visibility and accessibility with a single console.
Solution Approach 2:
The console positioning system adds a spatial dimension to the control system by allowing movement between multiple locations around the truck. This dimensional flexibility enables a single console to access multiple operational viewpoints that would otherwise require multiple fixed consoles distributed in space.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the control console is made movable, then adaptability to different job requirements is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control console incorporates pivotable legs that enable dynamic repositioning between a first position, a second position, and intermediate positions. This dynamic capability allows the console to adapt to different job requirements and operator preferences without requiring multiple specialized consoles for different operational scenarios.
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
Enables flexible positioning of the control console, improving operator visibility and reducing costs by eliminating the need for multiple consoles while maintaining secure and efficient operation.
Implementation Method 1
At least one spring is provided to bias the legs toward the third position.
Implementation Method 2
A powered actuator is operably connected to the first leg for shifting the legs among the first, second and third positions.
Data Source
AI summary
A control console includes a body supporting a plurality of controls, a base, and first and second legs each having a first end pivotably connected to the body and a second end pivotably connected to the base. The legs are shiftable between a first position projecting over a first end of the base, a second position projecting over a second end of the base and a third position between the first and second positions. At least one spring is provided to bias the legs toward the third position, and a motor may included for shifting the legs.