Remote Operator Station Standardization for Mining and Construction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Customization of remote operator stations for machines in challenging environments leads to inefficiencies in installation, maintenance, and operator familiarity due to non-standardized components, complicating the operation of machines in industries like mining and construction.
Innovation Solution
A remote operator station with a standardized frame, adjustable seat, and integrated input devices, along with interface processors and an electronic control module that communicates wirelessly with machines, providing a simulated environment for real-time operation and control of machine functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If remote operator stations are customized to fit specific office environments, then adaptability to different locations is improved, but device complexity and maintenance difficulty increase due to non-standardized components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a standardized remote operator station design with uniform mounting structures, interface devices, and control elements that can be deployed across multiple office environments without customization. This universal design allows the same ROS unit to function in diverse locations (field offices, centralized control centers, mobile vehicles) while maintaining consistent component specifications, thereby reducing device complexity and maintenance burden despite improving adaptability to different environments
2Ease of operation
If remote operator stations are customized for specific locations, then ease of operation for local conditions is improved, but ease of repair worsens due to non-standardized components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs homogeneous components throughout the remote operator station, including standardized interface devices, mounting structures, and control elements with uniform specifications. This homogeneity ensures that operators encounter consistent controls and interfaces across all deployments, maintaining ease of operation familiarity, while simultaneously enabling maintenance personnel to service any unit using the same procedures and parts, greatly improving ease of repair despite the need to operate in varied locations
3Adaptability or versatility
If customized mounting structures are used for remote operator stations, then adaptability to different office sites is improved, but productivity during installation and maintenance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal mounting structure with standardized dimensions, attachment mechanisms, and interface configurations that can be installed in any office environment using the same procedures and hardware. This eliminates the need to design custom mounting solutions for each location, allowing installation teams to rapidly deploy multiple remote operator stations using pre-engineered mounting kits, thereby maintaining location flexibility while dramatically improving installation and maintenance productivity
Data Source
AI summary
A remote operator station may include a seat. A first and a second input device may be disposed on the seat. An interface device may be discretely arranged with respect to the remote operator station and may include an interface processor in communication with a machine. The interface processor may be configured to remotely control non-movement features and function of the machine. An electronic control module may be in communication with, at least, the first and second input devices. The electronic control module may be configured to: receive input signals from one of the first and second input devices; process the input signals; and communicate wirelessly processed input signals to a machine for remote operation thereof.