Working Machine Operator Seat Armrest and Pedal Layout
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing working machines face issues such as operator fatigue due to prolonged operation, difficulty in accessing hydraulic devices, inefficient fuel tank design, poor weight balance, challenging pedal operation, inadequate visibility, suboptimal cooling efficiency, noise transmission, and temperature control, as well as difficulties in cleaning radiators and oil coolers.
Innovation Solution
The working machine design includes an operator seat with an armrest, a traveling device with pedals positioned to reduce strain, hydraulic devices arranged between the operator seat and prime mover for easy access, a fuel tank positioned behind the seat for effective use, improved pedal layout for better ergonomics, a monitor placement for enhanced visibility, efficient cooling airflow, noise insulation, and a partitioned space to manage temperature and facilitate cleaning of hydraulic components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the operation member is positioned far from the operator seat to provide sufficient operating space, then the operating space is adequate, but the operator experiences fatigue due to extended arm positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a third dimension (vertical height) by providing an elevated platform for the operation member. This allows the operation member to be positioned both far from the operator seat horizontally and at an elevated height, creating adequate operating space while keeping the operator's arm in a more comfortable, less extended position. The platform acts as an intermediate structure that resolves the spatial conflict.
2Ease of operation
If the cabin is mounted on one side portion of the machine body to improve accessibility, then the operator can easily access controls, but the weight balance of the machine body deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent places a counterweight on the opposite side of the machine body from the cabin to compensate for the weight imbalance caused by the offset-mounted cabin. This counterweight restores the machine body's weight balance and stability while allowing the cabin to remain positioned for optimal operator accessibility and control.
3Volume of moving object
If the fuel tank is positioned below the operator seat to save space, then the space utilization is efficient, but the fuel tank capacity is limited and fuel consumption efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent repositions the fuel tank from a horizontal placement below the operator seat to a vertical orientation extending in the height direction. This dimensional change allows the fuel tank to achieve greater capacity without occupying excessive horizontal space, thereby improving both space utilization and fuel storage efficiency.
4Device complexity
If the hydraulic devices are arranged below the cabin to consolidate components, then the component consolidation is achieved, but the accessibility to hydraulic devices for maintenance becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the machine body into distinct functional zones: the cabin area for operator controls and the hydraulic device arrangement portion for maintenance access. By providing a separate, accessible location for hydraulic devices with a dedicated opening in the machine body, the design allows maintenance personnel to easily access and service hydraulic components without interfering with cabin operations.
5Area of stationary object
If the operation base is positioned far from the operator seat to provide operating space, then the operating space is sufficient, but the pedal operation becomes challenging and operator strain increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent elevates the operation base and operation member to a higher vertical position on a platform. This vertical displacement creates adequate operating space above the operator's feet while allowing the pedals to be positioned at an ergonomically appropriate height and distance, reducing operator strain and improving pedal operability.
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
The design reduces operator fatigue, enhances accessibility to hydraulic devices, optimizes fuel consumption, improves weight balance, increases pedal operability, enhances visibility, improves cooling efficiency, reduces noise transmission, and simplifies maintenance by addressing temperature control and cleaning challenges.
Implementation Method 1
a cooling fan configured to generate a cooling airflow for cooling the prime mover
Implementation Method 2
a hydraulic pump configured to pressurize the hydraulic fluid in response to operation of the operation member
Implementation Method 3
a hydraulic motor configured to rotate in response to supply of the pressurized hydraulic fluid and to rotate the machine body about the turn shaft
Data Source
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AI summary
A working machine according to an embodiment of the present invention includes an operator seat, an operation base arranged in front of the operator seat, an operation member arranged on the operation base and configured to be gripped and moved, and an armrest member extending from the operation base toward a side of the operator seat.