Operator Control Force Vibration Feedback for Skid Steer Loaders
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicular control systems for skid steer loaders and similar machines do not efficiently convey multiple information types to operators, relying on separate systems or displays rather than the control device itself.
Innovation Solution
A feedback control system and method that uses force and/or vibration feedback through an operator control, such as a joystick, to convey information directly to the operator, including alerts, load conditions, and environmental data, enhancing operator awareness and reducing fatigue.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If separate systems or displays are used to convey information to the operator, then information can be transmitted, but the system complexity increases and operator awareness is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple information transmission functions into the single operator control device. The control device integrates force feedback, vibration feedback, and visual display capabilities, allowing diverse information (load conditions, system alerts, operational parameters) to be conveyed through one unified interface rather than requiring separate systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The operator control device is designed with multi-functionality, serving as both the primary control interface and a comprehensive information display system. It can simultaneously provide force feedback for load information, vibration feedback for alerts, and visual displays for detailed parameters, making the control device universal for both control and information presentation.
2Loss of information
If multiple separate displays are used to convey different information types, then complete information is provided, but operator fatigue increases and ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple information delivery mechanisms into the operator control device. Instead of requiring the operator to monitor separate displays for different information types, all information is integrated into the control device itself, reducing the cognitive and physical burden on the operator.
Solution Approach 2:
Different types of information are conveyed through different feedback modalities localized to the control device: force feedback for load information, vibration for alerts, and visual displays for detailed parameters. This localized differentiation allows the operator to process information efficiently without being overwhelmed by a single complex display.
3Device complexity
If traditional control systems are used, then the system is simple, but critical information is not efficiently conveyed to the operator in noisy environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates vibration feedback as an alert mechanism within the operator control device. In noisy environments where auditory alerts may be ineffective, the vibration provides a tactile signal that reliably communicates critical information to the operator without requiring complex additional systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The control device is designed to proactively provide feedback about system status and potential issues before they become critical problems. Force feedback and vibration alerts notify the operator of developing conditions, allowing preventive action before failures occur, enhancing reliability without major system complexity.
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
Efficiently conveys critical information to operators, enhances situational awareness, and provides quick alerts in noisy environments, improving operator safety and productivity.
Implementation Method 1
The controller is configured to send a force and/or vibration feedback to the operator control thereby conveying information to the operator
Implementation Method 2
The controller is configured to send a force and/or vibration feedback to the operator control thereby conveying information to the operator
Data Source
AI summary
A movable machine including a chassis, a tool coupled to the chassis, an operator control carried by the chassis and a controller. The controller is communicatively coupled to the operator control. The controller being configured to send a force feedback and/or a vibration feedback to the operator control thereby conveying information to the operator. The information is not related to a load encountered by the tool.