Panel Device Support Mechanism for Orientation Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
In compact work machines, panel devices obstruct other equipment when positioned for operation, as their rotation changes the display surface direction, making it difficult for operators to view the panel's display or input surfaces.
Innovation Solution
A panel device with a support mechanism featuring a first and second support axis, a connecting arm, guide rail, engaging member, and regulating arm, which maintains the display surface orientation when rotated, preventing unwanted rotations and allowing easy viewing and operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the panel is rotated around a support axis to avoid obstruction, then the panel can be repositioned to not obstruct other work, but the display surface direction changes making it difficult for operators to view
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from single-axis rotation to dual-axis rotation, adding another dimension of movement control. The first support axis allows rotation in one direction, while the second support axis enables rotation in a perpendicular direction, providing two-dimensional positioning capability that maintains display orientation while avoiding obstruction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic positioning capability where the panel can be rotated to multiple angular positions (0°, 90°, 180°, 270°) around two perpendicular axes. This dynamic adjustment allows the panel to adapt to different operational scenarios while maintaining optimal viewing orientation through coordinated rotation around both support axes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the panel is moved to avoid obstruction, then the panel can be repositioned, but the rotation may cause the panel to strike the work machine
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a detection mechanism that monitors the rotational position of the panel and provides feedback to the control system. When the panel approaches a position where it might strike the work machine, the detection mechanism triggers a stop signal, preventing collision. This feedback loop ensures safe operation while maintaining positioning flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary protective measures by detecting potential collision risks before they occur. The detection mechanism identifies when the panel is approaching a dangerous position and preemptively stops the rotation, preventing the harmful effect of striking the work machine before it can happen.
3Ease of operation
If the panel rotation mechanism is simplified to improve ease of operation, then the structure becomes simpler, but the ability to maintain display surface orientation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic rotation capabilities around two perpendicular axes, allowing the panel to be positioned at various angles (0°, 90°, 180°, 270°) while maintaining display orientation. The dual-axis support mechanism provides the necessary degrees of freedom to achieve optimal positioning without excessive structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a second rotational dimension by introducing a second support axis perpendicular to the first. This enables the panel to rotate in two independent directions, providing comprehensive positioning control while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure through modular axis design.
Data Source
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AI summary
Support mechanism 144 that supports a panel includes work-machine-side support axis 152 fixed to a work machine, panel-side support axis 154 fixed to a panel, connecting arm 150 that is swingably held by the two support axes, guide rail 170 formed on the work machine side, bolt 172 that moves along guide rail 170, and regulating arm 156 attached to the bolt and held so as to be oscillatable by the panel-side support axis. When the connecting arm is oscillated, the oscillation of the connecting arm and the angle of the panel is regulated by the regulating arm. Thus, the display screen or the like of the panel is able to be maintained facing a given direction, realizing panel device for which viewing of the display screen or the like of the panel is easy even when the panel is moved.