Tractor Assist Grip Stability via Dashboard Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional assist grips on tractors are often unstable when the steering wheel is gripped, leading to potential toppling of the operator, as they are not securely fixed and can rotate unexpectedly.
Innovation Solution
An assist grip is positioned in front of the steering wheel, attached to the dashboard with a cored bar and elastic member, providing stability and ease of use while allowing for secure gripping without obstructing the operator's view.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the assist grip is disposed on lateral opposite sides of the operator's seat, then the operator can easily grip it for safety, but the steering wheel may rotate unexpectedly when the operator grips it with one hand during riding on/off
Solution Approach 1:
The assist grip is repositioned from the lateral sides of the seat to the dashboard in front of the steering wheel, changing its spatial location from a side-position to a front-position. This dimensional change allows the grip to be both stable (fixed to dashboard) and easily accessible (within reach during on/off motion).
Solution Approach 2:
The assist grip serves as an intermediary element between the operator and the steering wheel. By providing a dedicated gripping point on the dashboard, it mediates the operator's need for stability during on/off while preventing direct interaction with the steering wheel that could cause rotation.
2Reliability
If the assist grip is disposed in front of the steering wheel, then the operator can grip it for stability, but it may obstruct the operator's forward view
Solution Approach 1:
The assist grip is designed with specific local characteristics: it is positioned on the dashboard but shaped and sized to occupy minimal visual space. The grip's form factor and placement are optimized to provide functional stability while maintaining visual clarity in the operator's forward view.
3Reliability
If the assist grip is attached to the dashboard, then it provides stable support, but it may interfere with the instrument panel
Solution Approach 1:
The dashboard area is functionally segmented into zones: the instrument panel area for displays and controls, and the upper dashboard area for the assist grip attachment. This spatial segmentation allows both the instrument panel and assist grip to coexist without interference, each occupying its designated functional zone.
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
The assist grip ensures stable operation by allowing the operator to grip it instead of the steering wheel, maintaining balance and providing a secure attachment point that can withstand significant forces without interfering with the instrument panel.
Implementation Method 1
The assist grip comprises a cored bar and an elastic member peripherally stuck on the cored bar
Data Source
AI summary
An object is to provide an assist grip for an operator to easily ride on/off an operation section. An assist grip for supporting a weight of an operator riding on/off an operation section is disposed in front of a steering wheel so as to overlap steering wheel when viewed in front.