Screed Control Panel Mount With Tool-Free Adjustable Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Operators of machines like asphalt pavers face difficulties in accessing and using control panels due to varying heights and positions, and existing control panels require tools for removal and installation.
Innovation Solution
A screed assembly with a control panel assembly that includes a support structure with movable and rotatable components, allowing vertical and rotational adjustments, and a locking mechanism using a dovetail joint for tool-free coupling and decoupling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If control panels are fixed to the screed using fasteners, then the control panels are securely attached, but tools are required for removal and installation
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure enables dynamic positioning of the control panel through vertical movement along the first axis and rotation about the first axis, allowing operators to adjust the panel to comfortable positions. This dynamic capability resolves the contradiction by making the control panel adaptable to different operator needs while maintaining secure attachment through the dovetail joint mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: the support structure with movable and rotatable elements, and the dovetail joint for secure attachment. This segmentation allows the control panel to be easily removed and reinstalled without tools, as the locking member can be简单地 engaged or disengaged from the recess, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and device complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If control panels are positioned at fixed locations, then the structure is simple, but operators of different heights have difficulty accessing them
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure incorporates vertical movement along the first axis and rotation about the first axis, enabling the control panel to be positioned at multiple heights and angles. This dynamic adjustability allows operators of different heights to access the control panel comfortably, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and device complexity by providing necessary adjustments without excessive complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure adds dimensional flexibility by enabling movement in vertical direction (along first axis) and rotational movement (about first axis). This multi-dimensional adjustment capability allows the control panel to be positioned to suit operators of different heights, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and device complexity through controlled dimensional freedom.
3Ease of operation
If control panels are permanently attached, then installation is secure, but removal for storage requires tools
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism is segmented into the locking member and the recess with dovetail joint, allowing simple engagement and disengagement. The locking member can be easily inserted into or removed from the recess without tools, providing both secure attachment during operation and easy removal for storage, thus resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The dovetail joint mechanism is designed to be self-servicing, where the locking member naturally engages with the recess to provide secure attachment, and can be easily disengaged by simple manual action without requiring external tools. This self-service capability resolves the contradiction between ease of removal and security of attachment.
Data Source
AI summary
A screed assembly associated with a machine includes a screed disposed at a rear end of the machine and at least one control panel assembly coupled to the screed. The at least one control panel assembly includes a control panel including a recess and a support structure adapted to be removably coupled with the control panel. The support structure includes a first structure defining a first axis. The first structure is movable along the first axis and rotatable about the first axis. The support structure also includes a second structure movably coupled to the first structure. The second structure defines a second axis substantially parallel to the first axis. The second structure is rotatable about the second axis and includes a locking member adapted to be slidably received within the recess of the control panel for removably coupling the control panel with the support structure.