Vehicle Turret Controller with Dual Input Ports
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing controllers for vehicle turrets can only accommodate a single input device, limiting operators to choose between manual joysticks and weapon-mounted input devices, restricting flexibility in controlling rotational movement.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus with two communication ports allows simultaneous input from a hand-operated joystick and a thumb-controlled input device, enabling the controller to generate control signals for the turret's rotational movement based on signals from both devices, with the ability to handle simultaneous actuation and adjust priority between them.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a controller is designed to accommodate only one input device, then the device complexity is reduced and ease of manufacture is improved, but the adaptability and ease of operation are worsened because operators are limited to choosing only one type of input device
Solution Approach 1:
The controller is designed with multiple communication ports that can accept different types of input devices (manual joystick, weapon-mounted input device, or other devices). This multi-functionality allows a single controller to serve multiple operational needs and accommodate various operator preferences without requiring separate controllers for each input device type.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller dynamically determines which input device is active and processes signals accordingly. The system can adapt its operation based on which communication port receives input signals, allowing flexible switching between different input devices during operation without requiring physical reconfiguration or manual intervention.
2Ease of operation
If a controller is designed to accommodate only one input device, then the ease of manufacture and device complexity are improved, but the ease of operation is worsened because operators must remove their hands from the weapon to use a manual joystick
Solution Approach 1:
The controller supports both manual joystick operation and weapon-mounted input device operation simultaneously through multiple communication ports. This allows operators to maintain their preferred operating style without compromising the ability to use alternative input methods if needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller acts as an intermediary that receives and processes signals from multiple different input devices through separate communication ports. This intermediary role allows the system to bridge between different input methods and coordinate their operation, enabling seamless switching or simultaneous use without direct operator intervention.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a controller accepts input from multiple input devices simultaneously, then the adaptability and ease of operation are improved, but the device complexity and difficulty of detecting and measuring input signals increase
Solution Approach 1:
The controller serves as an intermediary that receives signals through dedicated communication ports for each input device type. This structured intermediary approach organizes the complex signal reception process, allowing the system to handle multiple input devices systematically through standardized interfaces and protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller monitors which communication port receives input signals and adjusts its operation accordingly. This feedback mechanism allows the system to automatically determine which input device is active and process signals from the appropriate source, simplifying the detection and measurement process despite multiple potential input devices.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for controlling rotational movement of a turret of a vehicle is provided. The apparatus includes a first communication port that is adapted to receive input signals from a first input device for controlling rotation of the turret. A second communication port is adapted to receive input signals from a second input device for controlling rotation of the turret. A controller generates control signals for operational control of the vehicle turret in response to receipt of an input signal from at least one of the first and second input devices.