One-Hand Control Lever Layout for Multi-Axis Ergonomic Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing one-handed operating devices are cumbersome for thumb-operated joysticks and index finger-activated emergency stop buttons, and they limit control to a small number of axes, making complex object control difficult and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A one-handed operating device with a main module and a control lever connected via a joint with multiple degrees of freedom, allowing ergonomic positioning and operation, along with additional control elements and a vibration actuator for tactile feedback, enabling control of multiple axes and safe operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If control elements are arranged on the upper end face of the housing, then the device can be operated with one hand, but operating the joystick with the thumb and emergency stop button with the index finger becomes very difficult and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The control lever is moved from the upper end face to the front end face of the housing, changing the spatial arrangement from a two-dimensional surface layout to a three-dimensional configuration that extends toward the user. This dimensional change allows the control lever to be positioned within easy reach of the thumb while the housing is held in the palm, making operation intuitive and comfortable without increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
Different control elements are positioned on different faces of the housing according to their operational characteristics. The control lever is placed on the front end face for thumb operation, while the emergency stop button remains on the upper end face for index finger access. This local optimization of element positions based on finger ergonomics resolves the contradiction between ease of operation and device complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional joystick control is used on the upper end face, then the device structure remains simple, but only a small number of axes can be controlled and complex object control becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The control lever is designed with multi-degree-of-freedom joint connections to the housing, enabling it to function as a universal control interface that can manipulate multiple axes of an object simultaneously. This single control element replaces what would traditionally require multiple separate controls, increasing adaptability while maintaining relatively simple device structure
Solution Approach 2:
The control lever is connected to the housing via joints with at least two degrees of freedom, allowing dynamic movement in multiple directions. This dynamic connection enables the lever to control multiple axes of the object being manipulated, transforming a static single-axis control into a versatile multi-axis control system without significantly increasing device complexity
3Ease of operation
If the control lever is positioned for easy thumb operation, then ergonomic handling is improved, but the device may require additional attachment mechanisms increasing complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The housing is designed with an integrated recess that allows the device to be self-supported when resting against the operator's thigh. This self-service attachment mechanism eliminates the need for additional clips, straps, or mounting hardware, achieving ergonomic positioning while avoiding increases in device complexity
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a one-handed operating device for controlling an object (71), comprising a main module (12), a control lever (14) which is connected to the main module (12) by a joint (16) with at least two degrees of freedom, and a control device (28) provided in the main module (12) which is designed to process control signals from the control lever (14) and/or operating elements on the main module (12) and which is configured to receive and/or output signals to and/or from the object (71), wherein the main module (12) comprises a housing (18) which includes an upper and/or lower end face (19, 21) and/or a front and/or rear end face (22, 23) as well as an inner and outer side face (24, 26), wherein the control lever (14) is provided by the joint (16) on an outer side face (26) of the housing (18) and the control lever (14) is rotatable at least about a pivot axis (41),which can be positioned orthogonally to a plane of the outer side surface (26) or at an angle to the plane of the outer side surface (26), and the control lever (14) extends laterally along the outer side surface (26) of the housing (18) towards the front end face (22) of the housing (18) or beyond.