Touch Interface Integrated into Glass Pane for Machine Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current machine control systems in industrial manufacturing, particularly in container production, face ergonomics and intuitive operation challenges due to small screen sizes and low definition displays, leading to reduced productivity and increased operator training needs.
Innovation Solution
A stereoscopic camera system that detects the operator's gaze direction and integrates a touch-sensitive graphical interface into a transparent window, allowing direct component selection and control through gaze tracking and virtual three-dimensional models, enhancing ergonomics and visual comfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a small screen is used for the control console, then the device complexity is reduced and space is saved, but the ergonomics and visual comfort deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The control interface is integrated into the transparent window of the machine frame, transitioning from a separate console to a multi-dimensional integration. This allows the control interface to be positioned at an optimal viewing distance while maintaining space efficiency, resolving the contradiction between compactness and ergonomic operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The transparent window serves multiple functions: it provides structural enclosure, allows visual observation of internal components, and integrates the control interface. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for a separate console, improving ergonomics without increasing device complexity.
2Area of stationary object
If a small screen is used for the control console, then space is saved, but the definition and visual comfort deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the display into the transparent window at an optimal distance from the operator, the system achieves high effective resolution without requiring a physically large screen. The spatial arrangement enhances perceived definition and visual comfort.
3Ease of operation
If a larger screen is used to improve ergonomics and visual comfort, then the ease of operation improves, but the space available around the machine is exceeded
Solution Approach 1:
The control interface is merged with the transparent window structure, eliminating the need for a separate external console. This integration allows the control function to be accessed at an ergonomic distance while utilizing the existing machine footprint, avoiding additional space requirements.
4Device complexity
If conventional control systems are used, then the device complexity is maintained, but the intuitiveness and productivity deteriorate due to copious manuals and extensive training
Solution Approach 1:
The control interface displays visual representations of internal machine components and operations, creating a visual copy of the system state. This intuitive visualization reduces the need for complex manuals and extensive training, as operators can directly observe and interact with virtual representations of the physical system.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a system (13) for controlling a machine (1) provided with a frame (2) delimiting a working environment (3) including functional components (4) of the machine (1), said frame (2) comprising a transparent glass pane (6) separating the working environment (3) from an observation zone (7). The system (13) includes: a master control unit (14); slave controllers (16) slaved to the master control unit (14) and each controlling a functional component (4); and a graphical touch interface (18) integrated into the glass pane (6) and connected to the master control unit (14), said master control unit (14) being programmed to: display the following on the interface (18), namely- control panels (20) for the components (4), each including at least one interactive function for controlling the corresponding component (4); and control the component (4) via its controller (16) in response to the touch activation of at least one interactive function.