Work Vehicle Operation Tool Arrangement for Error Reduction

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional work vehicle operation tool arrangements lack optimal operability, leading to potential operational errors and inefficiencies due to the placement and method of operation tools.

Innovation Solution

The arrangement of rockable and depressible operation tools in a specific configuration on either side of the driver's seat, with rockable tools positioned forward and depressible tools between them, enhances operability by alternating operation methods and preventing errors.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Quantity of substance

If multiple operation tools are arranged in a conventional manner, then the number of operation tools can be provided, but the operability and ease of operation deteriorate due to poor arrangement

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of operation toolsVSAvoidoperability
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The operation tools are segmented into two distinct groups: rockable operation tools arranged in the right-left direction and depressible operation tools arranged in the front-back direction. This segmentation allows each group to be operated with different hand motions, reducing operational errors while maintaining a compact arrangement that provides multiple function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes two-dimensional arrangement space by positioning rockable tools along the right-left direction and depressible tools along the front-back direction. This dimensional differentiation creates an intuitive spatial relationship where the type of operation (rocking vs. depressing) corresponds to the directional arrangement, enhancing ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If operation tools are arranged to provide multiple functions, then versatility is improved, but operational errors increase due to difficulty in distinguishing between tools

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemultiple functionsVSAvoidoperational accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

Different regions of the operation panel are assigned distinct operational characteristics: the right-left direction accommodates rockable tools while the front-back direction accommodates depressible tools. This local differentiation in operational quality allows the operator to intuitively distinguish between tool types based on their spatial arrangement, preventing operational errors even when multiple functions are provided.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs asymmetric arrangement strategies where rockable tools are positioned laterally (right-left) and depressible tools are positioned longitudinally (front-back). This asymmetric spatial organization creates memorable patterns that help operators distinguish between different tool functions and reduce the likelihood of operating the wrong tool.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

3Device complexity

If operation tools are arranged in a compact space, then device complexity is reduced, but ease of operation deteriorates due to crowded placement

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvearrangement complexityVSAvoidoperability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The operation tools are designed to move dynamically in their respective directions: rockable tools pivot in the right-left direction while depressible tools move in the front-back direction. This dynamic arrangement allows compact placement without sacrificing operational ease, as each tool's movement path is clearly defined by its directional orientation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The operation panel structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mounting for both rockable and depressible tools, establishes intuitive spatial relationships, and enables compact arrangement. The directional arrangement system universally applies to different tool types, creating a versatile platform that maintains ease of operation despite compact dimensions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP2949498B1Work vehicle
Publication Date: 2020.11.04 KUBOTA CORP
  • EP2949498B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2949498B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2949498B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The present invention is a work vehicle having a first operation tool which is rockable or movable in a front/back direction arranged on a one side of a driver's seat. A second operation tool is rockable or movable in the front/back direction and is arranged forward of the first operation tool. A third operation tool is depressible and is arranged between the first operation tool and the second operation tool in the front/back direction.