Skid Steer Loader Single Operator Control for Implement Positioning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Skid steer loaders face operator confusion and reduced productivity due to varied control locations and functions for implements, lacking a single operator control for all positioning functions related to three rotational axes.

Innovation Solution

A work vehicle design incorporating a motor for frame movement with a second operator control within the cab structure, allowing manipulation of implements across three mutually perpendicular rotational axes, simplifying operation by integrating all control functions into a single hand control.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If control functions are distributed across multiple operator controls in different locations, then the work vehicle can perform different control functions, but operator confusion increases and productivity decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol function varietyVSAvoidoperator efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple control functions for implement positioning into a single operator control located in the cab structure. This merging of previously distributed controls eliminates operator confusion while maintaining all necessary control capabilities, directly resolving the contradiction between control versatility and operator efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The single operator control is designed to perform multiple functions for positioning the implement across three different rotational axes. This multi-functional control device consolidates what were previously separate controls, providing universal control capability that improves productivity without sacrificing adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If control functions are distributed across multiple operator controls, then different control locations are available, but operational complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol location optionsVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple distributed control functions into a single integrated operator control within the cab structure. This consolidation reduces the number of separate controls and their associated wiring and control logic, thereby reducing operational complexity while preserving all control capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple operator controls are used for implement positioning, then control functions can be distributed, but time is lost due to operator confusion

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol function distributionVSAvoidproductivity time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

By combining all implement positioning control functions into a single operator control, the patent eliminates the time loss associated with operator confusion. The unified control interface allows the operator to access all positioning functions from one location, removing the need to search for or switch between multiple controls.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS8894346B2Skid steer loader blade control
Publication Date: 2014.11.25 BLUE LEAF I P INC
  • US8894346B2 patent drawing
  • US8894346B2 patent drawing
  • US8894346B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A work vehicle includes a motor associated with selectable movement of a frame by a first operator control. The frame structurally carries a cab structure and a manipulating structure associated with an implement for performing work. The manipulating structure is selectably movable by a second operator control located in the cab structure. All control functions associated with positioning the implement with respect to three different rotational axes are manipulable using the second operator control.