Reconfigurable Steering Control for Cab Space and Visibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Steering columns and wheels in work vehicles obstruct operator visibility and interfere with seat swivel due to limited cab space, necessitating a reconfigurable steering solution.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle steering device that can switch between joystick and steering wheel modes, featuring a body, rotary stand, motor, orientation and angle sensors, and a controller with algorithms to determine the appropriate mode based on orientation, allowing for pivotable operation and adjustable resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a steering column and steering wheel are installed in the work vehicle, then steering control and maneuverability are provided, but operator visibility is obstructed and seat swivel is interfered with due to limited cab space
Solution Approach 1:
The steering device is designed to be dynamically reconfigurable between two operational modes: joystick mode and steering wheel mode. The system includes a reconfiguration mechanism that allows the steering device to switch positions and orientations based on operator needs, enabling the steering wheel to be moved to different locations or configured in different orientations to optimize visibility while maintaining steering control functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The steering device serves multiple functions by being reconfigurable between joystick mode and steering wheel mode. This multi-functionality allows the same physical device to provide different steering control methods depending on the operating conditions, cab space availability, and operator preferences, thereby resolving the contradiction between providing steering control and maintaining operator visibility
2Ease of operation
If a steering column and steering wheel are installed in the work vehicle, then steering control and maneuverability are provided, but seat swivel is interfered with due to limited space in the cab
Solution Approach 1:
The steering device incorporates dynamic reconfiguration capabilities that allow it to adapt to different spatial constraints. The system can switch between joystick mode (which occupies less space and allows greater seat swivel freedom) and steering wheel mode (which provides traditional steering control), enabling the operator to optimize the balance between steering control and seat adjustability based on cab space limitations
Solution Approach 2:
The steering device provides universal functionality by supporting both joystick mode and steering wheel mode operations. This multi-functionality ensures that the steering control requirement can be met regardless of the seat position or swivel range, allowing the operator to choose the appropriate mode based on the specific operational needs and spatial constraints within the cab
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle steering device includes a body, a rotary stand, a motor, an orientation sensor, an angle sensor, and a controller. The body can be oriented in a first position corresponding to the joystick mode or a second position corresponding to the steering wheel mode. The rotary stand is rotatably coupled to the body. The motor has an output shaft to rotate the rotary stand. The orientation sensor detects an orientation of the body and generates an orientation signal. The angle sensor detects an angle of the rotary stand relative to the body and generates an angle signal. The controller has a processor and a memory. The processor can execute a mode determine algorithm to receive the orientation signal from the orientation sensor and to determine which of a joystick algorithm or a steering wheel algorithm is executed afterward based on the orientation signal.