Working Machine Communication Unit Layout for Unobstructed View

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing working machines face challenges in providing a useful layout for the communication unit, which includes a communication device and an information processing device, that does not obstruct the user's views while being mounted on the machine body.

Innovation Solution

The communication unit is positioned rearward of the seat and lower than the upper end of the seat, overlapping it in a rear view, with a unit support and cover member configuration that includes a load receiver and elastic intervening member to manage the backrest's reclineable position, ensuring unobstructed views and secure attachment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Extent of automation

If the communication unit is mounted on the machine body, then data transmission function is provided, but the user's view may be obstructed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata transmission functionVSAvoidview obstruction
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The communication unit is repositioned from a conventional location to a specific spatial coordinate system: rearward of the seat in the longitudinal direction and lower than the upper end of the seat in the vertical direction, overlapping the seat in rear view. This multi-dimensional positioning ensures the communication unit does not obstruct the user's front, rear, or side views while maintaining its data transmission function.

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

2Ease of operation

If the backrest portion is made reclineable, then user comfort is improved, but the communication unit may be deformed or damaged

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser comfortVSAvoidcommunication unit integrity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

A cover member is introduced as an intermediary protective structure between the reclineable backrest portion and the communication unit. The cover member includes a load receiver that contacts the backrest portion when reclined, preventing direct mechanical stress on the communication unit while allowing the backrest to remain reclineable for user comfort.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Object-affected harmful factors

If the communication unit is positioned to not obstruct view, then user view is improved, but attachment security may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveview obstructionVSAvoidattachment security
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The attachment system is segmented into multiple functional components: a unit support for mounting the communication unit, a cover member with load receiver for protection, and an intervening member with elastic properties for cushioning. This segmentation allows the communication unit to be positioned optimally for viewing while maintaining secure attachment through distributed mechanical support.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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

This layout allows for an unobstructed user view and secure attachment of the communication unit, preventing deformation and ensuring effective data transmission without hindering the user's front, rear, or side views.

Implementation Method 1

an intervening member including an elastic member and provided between and in close contact with the cover member and the load receiver

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS20250012049A1Working machine
Publication Date: 2025.01.09 KUBOTA CORP
  • US20250012049A1 patent drawing
  • US20250012049A1 patent drawing
  • US20250012049A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A working machine includes a machine body; a seat on the machine body; and a communication unit including an information processing device and a communication device to receive data from and transmit data to the information processing device, the communication device containing a communication antenna and configured to transmit data. The communication unit is located at a position rearward of the seat and lower than an upper end of the seat such that the communication unit overlaps the seat in rear view.