Multi-Axis Control Handle for Skid Steer Loaders
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing skid steer loader control systems require separate controls for steering and speed, which can be cumbersome and inefficient, especially for operators who need to switch between ride-on and walk-behind modes.
Innovation Solution
A single control handle system is introduced, pivotally coupled to multiple axes, allowing for simultaneous forward/reverse direction and speed control, as well as steering, with adjustable positioning to accommodate different operator preferences and reduce fatigue.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If separate controls are used for steering and speed, then control precision is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines steering control and speed control into a single control handle that can pivot about multiple axes. The handle can pivot about a first horizontal axis for speed control and a second horizontal axis for steering control, allowing both functions to be integrated in one component rather than requiring separate controls.
Solution Approach 2:
The control handle is designed to pivot about multiple axes (first horizontal axis, second horizontal axis, and vertical axis), adding dimensional freedom to the control mechanism. This multi-axis capability allows a single handle to perform multiple control functions that would otherwise require separate controls.
2Measurement precision
If separate controls are used for steering and speed, then control precision is improved, but ease of operation worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines steering control and speed control into a single control handle that can pivot about multiple axes. The handle can pivot about a first horizontal axis for speed control and a second horizontal axis for steering control, allowing both functions to be integrated in one component rather than requiring separate controls.
Solution Approach 2:
The single control handle is designed to perform multiple functions: it can control forward/reverse direction and speed by pivoting about the first horizontal axis, and it can control steering by pivoting about the second horizontal axis. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for operators to switch between separate controls.
3Device complexity
If fixed handle positioning is used, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability and ease of operation worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The control handle support platform is designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing the entire control assembly to be repositioned. The platform can move along the vertical link to adjust the height and position of the control handle, enabling different operators to position the controls at ergonomic heights while maintaining the simplicity of the overall system.
Data Source
AI summary
A control system for a walk behind loader which includes a control plate that is mounted to a shaft about an upright axis, wherein pivoting the control plate about the upright axis provides a steering input to the loader. A control handle is pivotally mounted about a generally horizontal axis and movable to provide for a direction and speed control input coupling through a control link. The control handle is mounted onto a handle mounting section section, that in turn is pivotally mounted to a support about an axis that is substantially coincident with the an axis coupling the handle to the control link, so that the control handle can be moved as the handle mounting section pivots between a raised and lowered position without causing a change in the position of controls controlled by the handle. The loader is capable of being operated by an operator walking on the ground when the control handle is in the lowered position, and by an operator standing on a platform attached to the loader, when the control handle is in the raised position.