Turn Control System for Work Vehicles Using Stalk Input
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Solution Overview
Problem
The process of authorizing turns in work vehicles controlled by automatic systems can be time-consuming for operators, as they need to locate and interact with buttons on a touchscreen display, diverting attention from other tasks.
Innovation Solution
A turn control system with a controller that receives signals from a turn signal input assembly, activates turn signal indications, and provides instructions for turn directions, utilizing a readily accessible input device like a turn signal stalk for manual control and automatic mode operations, reducing the time needed for operator feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the operator uses a touchscreen display to authorize turns, then the control system can provide visual guidance and confirmation, but the operator spending time locating and interacting with buttons diverts attention from other tasks
Solution Approach 1:
The turn signal stalk automatically performs the turn authorization function without requiring the operator to manually search for or activate controls. The system monitors the stalk position and automatically initiates turns when appropriate conditions are met, making the system serve itself rather than requiring continuous operator intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors the turn signal stalk position in advance, so when a turn is needed, the authorization is already prepared or can be instantly executed. This preliminary monitoring eliminates the delay of locating and activating controls at the moment a turn is required.
2Reliability
If the system requires operator input via touchscreen, then turn authorization can be confirmed, but the complexity of the interface increases and slows down the operation
Solution Approach 1:
The existing turn signal stalk, already familiar to the operator from standard vehicle operation, is repurposed to automatically provide turn authorization. This eliminates the need for a complex touchscreen interface while maintaining reliable turn control, as the stalk's position continuously informs the control system of the operator's intended direction.
3Productivity
If the operator must locate and press buttons on the display, then specific turn commands can be entered, but the productivity of the operator decreases due to divided attention
Solution Approach 1:
The turn authorization system operates autonomously by monitoring the turn signal stalk position. This self-service approach allows the operator to maintain focus on primary tasks while the system automatically handles turn authorization, thereby improving productivity without sacrificing ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The turn signal stalk serves multiple functions: indicating turn intent to other drivers and simultaneously authorizing automatic turns with the control system. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate controls, improving both productivity and ease of operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A turn control system for a work vehicle includes a controller having a memory and a processor. The controller is configured to receive a first signal from a turn signal input assembly of the work vehicle indicative of a turn indication. The controller is also configured to output a second signal indicative of activation of a turn signal indication assembly based on the turn indication while in a manual control mode. In addition, the controller is configured to output a third signal to a movement control system indicative of instructions to control a turn direction of the work vehicle at an end of a guidance swath based on the turn indication while in an automatic control mode.