Removable Control Module Wireless Safety Proximity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Power machines, such as mini-loaders, lack efficient wireless control solutions that ensure operator safety by preventing accidental operation when the control module is removed or out of range.
Innovation Solution
A power machine system featuring a removable control module that wirelessly communicates with a machine controller, using proximity detection systems like radar or RFID to determine operator presence, and adjusts operation accordingly, locking out functions or shutting down the machine if the operator is too close or out of range.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If wireless control is implemented without proximity detection, then operator convenience and remote operation capability are improved, but safety is worsened due to risk of accidental operation when control module is removed or out of range
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors operator proximity through detection systems (RFID, radar, cameras) and provides feedback to the control system. Based on this feedback, the system automatically adjusts control accessibility - enabling wireless control when operator is at safe distance and disabling it when operator is too close, thus preventing accidental operation while maintaining convenient remote control capability
Solution Approach 2:
A proximity detection intermediary system is introduced between the operator and the control module. This intermediary detects operator presence and mediates control access by enabling or disabling wireless control functions based on detected proximity, thereby ensuring safety without directly interfering with the wireless control mechanism
2Reliability
If proximity detection systems are added to ensure safety, then operational safety is improved, but device complexity is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The control module serves multiple functions: it acts as both the wireless control interface and the proximity detection target (via RFID tags or reflective surfaces). The system uses multi-functional components where the same hardware elements participate in both control and safety detection, reducing overall system complexity despite enhanced safety capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The proximity detection system is designed to be self-regulating, automatically enabling or disabling control functions based on detected conditions without requiring additional complex control logic or human intervention. The system serves itself by using the presence or absence of detected objects to directly control system state
3Adaptability or versatility
If control module is made removable for flexibility, then adaptability is improved, but safety is worsened due to risk of loss or misuse
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces physical/mechanical control mechanisms with wireless electronic control. Instead of requiring physical connection or possession of a mechanical control device, the operator uses wireless communication (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi) to control the machine. This substitution maintains flexibility while enhancing security through electronic authentication and proximity-based access control
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
Enables safe and remote operation of power machines by ensuring the operator is within a predetermined range and preventing accidental start-ups or function activation when the control module is removed, enhancing safety and operational control.
Implementation Method 1
using proximity detection systems like radar or RFID to determine operator presence
Implementation Method 2
using proximity detection systems like radar or RFID to determine operator presence
Data Source
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AI summary
A control module (103; 303) for controlling functions on a power machine (100; 200; 300) that can be removably mounted from the power machine and used, when not mounted to the power machine, to control the power machine. A method (400) for controlling a power machine are provided to allow wireless control of power machine functions.