Two-Axis Lever Linkage for Neutral-Return Remote Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing remote control devices for construction machinery levers lack the ability to efficiently move the lever in multiple directions and automatically return to a neutral position without manual intervention.
Innovation Solution
A machine comprising a base member, actuators, frames, and joints forms a four-bar link mechanism that allows the lever to move in two perpendicular directions, with actuators having backdrivability for manual operation and a computer to detect the lever's neutral position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If separate actuators are used for each degree of freedom, then control precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The single actuator is segmented into two independent drive mechanisms: a first drive mechanism for moving the operating lever in the first degree of freedom, and a second drive mechanism for moving the operating lever in the second degree of freedom. This segmentation allows each mechanism to independently control one degree of freedom, achieving precise control while maintaining a unified actuator structure that does not significantly increase overall device complexity.
2Ease of operation
If manual operation capability is maintained, then ease of operation is improved, but automatic return to neutral position reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The drive mechanisms are designed with dynamic characteristics that enable dual functionality: they can be actively driven to move the operating lever to desired positions, and they can passively back-drive to allow manual operation. When the actuator is inactive, the mechanisms allow the operating lever to return to its neutral position under the influence of gravity or spring force, providing both automatic return capability and manual operability without compromising either function.
3Device complexity
If compact design is achieved, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to different machinery types deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The operating lever drive device is designed as a universal mechanism that can be applied to various types of construction machinery. The first and second drive mechanisms are configured to work together in a unified actuator structure that can control the operating lever in two degrees of freedom. This universal design allows the same basic structure to be adapted to different machinery types (excavators, loaders, etc.) while maintaining a compact form factor, achieving both compactness and versatility.
Data Source
AI summary
A machine according to an aspect of this disclosure moves a lever movable in a first direction and a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. This machine includes a base member, a first actuator, a second actuator, a connector, a first frame, a second frame, and a third frame. The first actuator has a first output shaft that moves along the first direction. The second actuator has a second output shaft that moves along the second direction. The first frame has a first proximal end where a first joint is disposed and a first distal end where the second joint is disposed. The second frame has a second proximal end connected to the first distal end via the second joint, and a second distal end where a third joint is disposed. The third frame has a third proximal end and a third distal end, and the third distal end is connected to the second output shaft of the second actuator.