Sensor-Based Operating Lever Layout for Compact Load Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing electric operating devices for machines, such as construction machines and aircrafts, are bulky due to their complex structures, including universal joints and reaction force mechanisms, which increase the number of parts and size.
Innovation Solution
The operating device features an operating lever with a supported intermediate portion and sensors arranged to detect loads applied from the lever, allowing for operation reaction forces to be generated without a reaction force mechanism, thereby reducing the number of parts and size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a universal joint and reaction force mechanism are used to enable the operating lever to tilt and generate reaction force, then the operational functionality is improved, but the number of parts and device size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the universal joint and reaction force mechanism from the system. Instead of using these separate components, the operating lever itself is designed with asymmetric bending stiffness to directly provide both the tilting motion and reaction force generation functions, reducing the number of parts while maintaining operational functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functions of the operating lever, universal joint, and reaction force mechanism into a single integrated structure. The operating lever is designed with different bending stiffness in different directions, allowing it to simultaneously serve as the tilting mechanism and the reaction force generator, eliminating the need for separate components
2Adaptability or versatility
If a universal joint and reaction force mechanism are used to enable the operating lever to tilt and generate reaction force, then the operational functionality is improved, but the device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the bulky universal joint and reaction force mechanism components from the system. By using the operating lever's inherent asymmetric bending characteristics, the device achieves the same functionality with a significantly reduced volume, as no additional mechanical linkages or spring mechanisms are required
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple functions into the single operating lever component. The lever's asymmetric structure allows it to provide both the tilting motion capability and the reaction force generation within its own body, eliminating the need for separate mechanisms and thereby reducing the overall device size
3Measurement precision
If four sensors are used to detect load in multiple directions, then the measurement precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes each sensor multi-functional by strategically positioning them to detect load components in multiple directions. Each load transfer plate is designed to transmit load components to multiple sensors, allowing each sensor to contribute to detecting both X and Y direction loads, thereby achieving comprehensive measurement with a compact sensor arrangement
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the load detection function across four sensors arranged in pairs. Two sensors detect load components primarily in the X direction while the other two detect load components primarily in the Y direction, with each sensor contributing to both directional measurements through the load transfer plate mechanism, achieving precise multi-directional measurement without complex individual sensor systems
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
This configuration enables the operating device to output signals corresponding to tilt angles and operation loads with a simpler structure, achieving downsizing while maintaining operational functionality.
Implementation Method 1
when the first end-side part of the operating lever is operated, the operating lever moves based on the principle of leverage at a fulcrum that is the intermediate part of the operating lever
Implementation Method 2
the second end-side part presses the adjacent sensor. At this time, the second end-side part of the operating lever can press the corresponding sensor with a pressing load proportional to an operation load
Data Source
AI summary
An operating device includes: an operating lever extending in a first direction and including a first end-side part in the first direction, the first end-side part being operable; a casing supporting a first-direction intermediate part of the operating lever; first and second sensors arranged in the casing so as to be spaced apart from each other in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction and be adjacent to a second end-side part in the first direction of the operating lever; and third and fourth sensors arranged in the casing so as to be spaced apart from each other in a third direction perpendicular to the first and second directions and be adjacent to the second end-side part of the operating lever, wherein each of the first to fourth sensors outputs a signal in accordance with a load applied from the operating lever.