Work Machine Lever Mapping for Flexible Operation Patterns
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing work machines have fixed operation patterns between operation levers and machine motions, leading to increased operational complexity and risk of errors when operators need to switch levers based on familiarity or preference.
Innovation Solution
A work machine control system that allows for customizable operation patterns by associating operations of first and second operation elements with machine motions, enabling flexible assignment of operations to reduce operator burden.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a fixed operation pattern is used between operation levers and machine motions, then the control system is simple and reliable, but the operator burden increases and operation complexity rises when switching levers is needed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the operation pattern changeable rather than fixed. The control system allows switching between different operation patterns (e.g., first operation pattern with left lever controlling arm, second operation pattern with right lever controlling arm) based on operator preference or task requirements. This dynamic reconfiguration reduces operator burden while adapting to different operational contexts without requiring complete system redesign.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by modifying the mapping relationship between operation elements and machine motions. By changing which operation lever controls which machine component (arm, boom, bucket), the system adapts to different operator preferences and task requirements. This parameter reconfiguration enables flexible operation patterns while maintaining system reliability through structured control logic.
2Ease of operation
If operation patterns are made changeable according to operator preference, then ease of operation improves, but the risk of operation errors increases due to complex switching requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring multiple operation patterns before operation begins. Operators can select their preferred pattern in advance, and the system maintains clear documentation of which lever controls which function in the current pattern. This preliminary setup avoids confusion during actual operation, reducing error risk while maintaining flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by providing clear information to the operator about the current operation pattern being active. This feedback mechanism ensures the operator knows which lever controls which machine component, preventing unintentional operations and reducing error risk while maintaining the benefits of changeable patterns.
3Ease of operation
If the arm closing operation is assigned to the right operation lever instead of the left, then operator preference is accommodated, but the operator must press the left lever switch while operating the right lever, increasing operation complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by making the lever-to-function assignment dynamic rather than static. When the operator selects an operation pattern where the right lever controls arm closing, the system automatically configures the corresponding switch operations. This dynamic reconfiguration ensures that switch pressing requirements are consistent with the selected pattern, avoiding the need to press switches on levers that are not currently controlling the desired function.
Data Source
AI summary
A control method for a work machine is a control method for the work machine including a machine body that makes a motion according to an operation of an operation device. This control method has: changing a first operation pattern as a corresponding relationship between an operation of a first operation element in an operation device and the motion of the machine body; and setting a second operation pattern in association with the first operation pattern, the second operation pattern being a corresponding relationship between an operation of a second operation element in the operation device, which is performed in association with the operation of the first operation element, and the motion of the machine body.