Work Vehicle Steering Switch for GPS-Corrected Path Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing agricultural working machines face difficulties in quickly and accurately steering in changing situations due to limitations in manual and automatic steering systems, and there is a need for improved operability and reduced influence of GPS positioning errors on steering accuracy.

Innovation Solution

A working vehicle equipped with a steering handle and a separate steering switch that allows for manual or automatic steering, featuring a position detector device and an auto-steering mechanism that corrects vehicle position based on satellite signals, and an operation console with improved ergonomics and operability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If automatic steering is used along a set traveling line, then steering accuracy is improved, but the ability to quickly respond to changing situations deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesteering accuracyVSAvoidresponse to changing situations
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The steering system dynamically switches between automatic steering mode (for accuracy along set paths) and manual steering mode (for quick response to changing situations). The control unit enables the steering handle to operate independently when in manual mode, allowing the operator to override automatic steering when situational changes require immediate adaptive response.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Extent of automation

If GPS positioning is used to detect vehicle position, then automatic traveling is enabled, but positioning errors affect steering accuracy

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveautomatic travelingVSAvoidpositioning accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system introduces an intermediary correction mechanism where the operator can manually adjust the set traveling line through the instruction unit when GPS positioning errors are detected. This manual correction acts as a mediator between the automated GPS-based positioning system and the actual vehicle path, compensating for positioning inaccuracies by updating the reference trajectory.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple operation tools are provided, then functional versatility is improved, but operability and ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctional versatilityVSAvoidoperability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple operation tools are merged into an integrated control system where common functions are consolidated. The single-operating operation tool can control multiple operation tools through a unified interface, reducing the number of separate controls the operator must manage while maintaining access to diverse functions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

4Ease of operation

If manual steering is used, then ease of operation is improved, but steering accuracy and productivity deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanual controlVSAvoidsteering efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The automatic steering system provides self-service by automatically steering the vehicle along the set traveling line without continuous operator input. The control unit autonomously processes positioning data and controls the steering mechanism, freeing the operator from continuous manual steering tasks while maintaining accurate path following, thereby improving productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables easy and accurate steering of the vehicle body, reduces the impact of GPS positioning errors on steering accuracy, and enhances operational efficiency and user interface for improved handling and navigation.

Implementation Method 1

the position of the vehicle body is detected by a position detector device

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectGPS positioning:

Data Source

PatentEP3744161B1Work vehicle
Publication Date: 2024.07.03 KUBOTA CORP
  • EP3744161B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3744161B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3744161B1 patent drawingFigure 3A~3B

AI summary

A working vehicle (1) capable of easily steering a vehicle body (3) is provided. The working vehicle (1) includes the vehicle body (3) to travel, a steering handle (30) to be turned to steer the vehicle body (3), and a steering switch (153) to steer the vehicle body (3) separately from the steering handle (30). The steering switch (153) may be a switch to be operated in a pressing manner or in a sliding manner for steering the vehicle body (3). In addition, the steering switch (153) may be arranged around the steering handle (30). (Fig. 1)