Compact Utility Vehicle Controls for Stable Standing Operation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Compact utility vehicles face challenges in precise control due to sudden machine movements interfering with the operator's ability to operate the vehicle accurately, especially when the operator is standing during operation.
Innovation Solution
A manual input device is positioned adjacent to the operator station, featuring a handle portion rigidly connected to the vehicle frame and a thumb switch control portion with sensors to provide control signals for precise vehicle operation, including a first manual input device for controlling ground engaging wheels or tracks and a second manual input device for controlling an implement, both ergonomically placed within the operator's biacromial breadth for improved stability and control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the operator stands during operation to improve mobility and access, then the operator can reach more areas and move more freely, but sudden machine movements interfere with the operator's ability to control the machine with precision
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into multiple independent manual input devices (joysticks, levers, buttons) positioned at different locations on the vehicle. Each input device controls specific functions independently, allowing the operator to maintain precise control over individual vehicle functions even while standing and moving.
Solution Approach 2:
A control console serves as an intermediary structure that houses and positions multiple input devices within the operator's biacromial breadth. This intermediary platform provides stable mounting for controls while allowing the operator to reach them from a standing position without being directly affected by vehicle movements.
2Ease of operation
If manual input devices are positioned within the operator's biacromial breadth for improved ergonomics, then the operator can access controls more easily while standing, but the control console width and device placement become constrained
Solution Approach 1:
The control console and input devices are arranged in a three-dimensional configuration that utilizes vertical space and depth in addition to width. Multiple input devices are positioned at different heights and depths within the operator's reach envelope, allowing comprehensive control functionality within a compact lateral footprint that fits within the biacromial breadth.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the handle section is installed through a multi-axial pivoting mechanism for increased mobility, then the handle can be displaced and rotated in multiple directions, but the complexity of the control mechanism increases
Solution Approach 1:
The multi-axial pivoting mechanism is segmented into separate single-axis pivots mounted in series. Each pivot handles one degree of freedom independently, which simplifies the design and manufacturing of each individual pivot while achieving the cumulative effect of multi-axial movement capability.
Data Source
AI summary
A compact utility vehicle including a chassis supporting a prime mover, ground engaging wheels or tracks, an implement, and a rear standing platform operably coupled to the chassis. The vehicle can be equipped with a control console that is operably coupled to the chassis at an elevation above the rear standing platform. The console can have two manual input devices, including a first manual input device configured to control the ground engaging wheels or tracks located along the lateral direction of the vehicle between a longitudinal centerline of the vehicle and 50% of a distance to a first side of the control console, and a second manual input device defining a rigid grip and a thumb switch control portion to control the operation of the implement, located along the lateral direction of the vehicle between the longitudinal centerline of the vehicle and 50% of a distance to a second side of the control console.