Work Machine Cruise Control for Operator Fatigue Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional walk-type work machines require continuous manual operation of the travel lever to maintain a constant travel speed, leading to user fatigue and difficulty in performing work at a consistent speed.
Innovation Solution
The work machine incorporates a control unit that enables cruise control, allowing the travel unit to maintain a constant speed even when the travel operator is in a state corresponding to the travel OFF mode, as long as the work operator is engaged.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the travel lever is used to control travel speed, then the travel speed can be adjusted according to work depth, but the user experiences fatigue from continuous manual operation and cannot maintain constant speed easily
Solution Approach 1:
The travel unit is designed to automatically maintain constant speed through the control unit without requiring continuous manual input from the user. Once the travel ON mode is activated, the system self-regulates the speed, freeing the user from constant lever manipulation and reducing fatigue while maintaining productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical control of the travel lever is replaced with an automated control system. The control unit substitutes for the user's continuous manual operation, using electronic or automated mechanisms to maintain travel speed instead of requiring constant physical input from the operator.
2Speed
If the travel lever is pressed continuously to maintain travel speed, then constant travel speed can be achieved, but user fatigue increases
Solution Approach 1:
The travel unit automatically maintains constant speed through the control unit without requiring continuous manual input from the user. Once the travel ON mode is activated, the system self-regulates the speed, freeing the user from constant lever manipulation and reducing fatigue while maintaining productivity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the work operator is operated for work ON mode, then the work unit is activated, but the travel unit should continue without requiring travel operator input
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit serves multiple functions: it controls both the work unit and the travel unit. When the work operator is activated, the control unit automatically manages the travel unit's operation, allowing one control system to handle multiple operational modes and reducing the need for separate dedicated controls for each function.
Data Source
AI summary
A work machine includes a control unit that starts cruise control that continues a travel ON mode of the travel unit even if travel levers, functioning as a travel operator, are in a state corresponding to a travel OFF mode. As a result, work is enabled to be performed at constant travel speed with ease.