CA2084033A1 - Ergonometric control system for swing reach vehicles - Google Patents
Ergonometric control system for swing reach vehiclesInfo
- Publication number
- CA2084033A1 CA2084033A1 CA 2084033 CA2084033A CA2084033A1 CA 2084033 A1 CA2084033 A1 CA 2084033A1 CA 2084033 CA2084033 CA 2084033 CA 2084033 A CA2084033 A CA 2084033A CA 2084033 A1 CA2084033 A1 CA 2084033A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- control
- vehicle
- handles
- operator
- ergonometric
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B66—HOISTING; LIFTING; HAULING
- B66F—HOISTING, LIFTING, HAULING OR PUSHING, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, e.g. DEVICES WHICH APPLY A LIFTING OR PUSHING FORCE DIRECTLY TO THE SURFACE OF A LOAD
- B66F9/00—Devices for lifting or lowering bulky or heavy goods for loading or unloading purposes
- B66F9/06—Devices for lifting or lowering bulky or heavy goods for loading or unloading purposes movable, with their loads, on wheels or the like, e.g. fork-lift trucks
- B66F9/075—Constructional features or details
- B66F9/20—Means for actuating or controlling masts, platforms, or forks
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Transportation (AREA)
- Structural Engineering (AREA)
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
- Civil Engineering (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Geology (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Forklifts And Lifting Vehicles (AREA)
Abstract
ABSTRACT OF THE DISCLOSURE
The present invention features an ergonometric control system for material handling vehicles, such as fork lift trucks. The system includes a pair of right and left control handles. The handles are disposed about the operator compartment of the vehicle, and are utilized to control the vehicle.
The handles conform to the respective right and left hand grips of the operator. The handles provide operator support throughout vehicle operation. As such, this conformity to the hand grips provides comfortable controls as well as ease of vehicle operation. Each handle includes a number of closely spaced, easily accessed function actuators that allow for simultaneous control of two or more vehicular functions. All the actuators are integrated into their respective handle, such that they are within finger tip reach of the operator's hand.
The present invention features an ergonometric control system for material handling vehicles, such as fork lift trucks. The system includes a pair of right and left control handles. The handles are disposed about the operator compartment of the vehicle, and are utilized to control the vehicle.
The handles conform to the respective right and left hand grips of the operator. The handles provide operator support throughout vehicle operation. As such, this conformity to the hand grips provides comfortable controls as well as ease of vehicle operation. Each handle includes a number of closely spaced, easily accessed function actuators that allow for simultaneous control of two or more vehicular functions. All the actuators are integrated into their respective handle, such that they are within finger tip reach of the operator's hand.
Description
2 ~
AN ERGONOME _ C CONTROL SYSTEM FOR
SWING REACH VEHICLE_ Field of the Invention The invention relates to an advanced control system for material handling vehicles containing new and improved control features for combining ease of operation with safety, and more particularly to an ergonometric set of controls for operating fork lift vehicles with greater comfort, ease, efficiency and saf~ty.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Anyone who has ever observed the operation of, or who has actually operated a fork lift vehicle will appreciate the complexity of the various control levers for achieving the movement of the vehicle and its subsystems, such as carriage, forXs and mast. Even experienced material handling operators will occasionally pull or depress the wrong lever, when operating their vehicles.
While a rigorous training course is always required before an operator is certified to operate these vehicles, more complex vehicle controls require more complex training. The more complex the controls, the greater the possibility of improper operation. Additionally, more complex controls require increased focus over a long shift, a situation that unfortunately lends itself to loss of operator's attention. Loss of attention results in fatigue that could lead to improper or hazardous operation of the vehicle.
It is not uncommon for the fork lift operators to complain that their hands, feet and/or back hurt after a normal operating shift. The controls are often uncomfortable to the hand. Some levers are 2 ~ ~ t''~
remotel~ located about the operator compartment, and require an extended reach ~or access.
Obviously, there is wasted motion moving from one lever to the next. Some typical controls that are presently in use require extended push or pull movements to actuate the desired vehicle movements.
All of these excessive operator movements and inconveniences of control access cause operator fatigue, cumulative trauma disorders such as carpal 10 tunnel syndrome, and operating inefficiencies. In addition, these extraneous movements threaten safe vehicle operation.
Some of the control levers are contrary to the normal senses of the operator relative to the 15 motions of the operation. For example, fork movement levers may require a push or a pull to lift or lower the lifting mechanism. At times the same lever may be used to actuate several functions via a secondary select switch. Such actuating 20 devices can cause confusion and inefficiency.
~otions contrary to the normal senses not only make the task of lParning to opera~e the material handlin~ vehicle more difficult, but may also be an underlying cause of confusion leading to improper 25 operation.
Many of the control levers now in use can be confused, because they have the same shape, motion, and actuation modality for different functions.
Levers disposed upon the same control panel are 30 often distinguishable only to the highly trained operator.
In summary, there are many drawbacks with the use of the current system of controls for material handling vehicles. These disadvantages may be 35 summarized as follows:
~a) There are just too many inconveniently placed control levers Eor e~ficient and convenient operation of the material handling vehicle;
(b) Safe operation of these control levers is not always clearly defined, and may be contrary to the normal senses of the operator relative to the motions of the operation;
(c) Present day control levers are usually not designed with operator comfort in mind. The control or actuating levers are. not designed to be comfortable to the touch or grip of the operator;
(d) The complexity of the controls of a material handling vehicle lead to inefficiencies of operation. Often simultaneous operations cannot be performed;
(e) Control levers require too much operator effort to actuate the desired vehicle operation;
(f~ The operator must move from actuator to actuator to effect different control functions;
~0 ' (g) Levers are often indistinguishable in appearance and actuation, often leading to confusion as to which lever is to be thrown to effectuate a particular function; and (h) Most of the present day controls are more ~5 mechanically actuatable, rather than electrically actuatable.
The present invention seeks to overcome all of the above drawbacks and disadvantages.
The current invention seeks to reduce expended energies and motions by operators of fork lift vehicles in actuating the vehicular con~,rols.
These measurements have resulted in a new control ergonometry. Switching or selecting control ~unctions has been designed to be more electrically and less mechanically actuatable.
2 ~8 '~ ~ c~ tJ
A new pair of control levers or handles has been designed. The new handles are shaped -to conform to the grip of the human hand, thus providing operator comfort. Most of the control function actuators have been designed and integrated into these control handles, reducing the time and enPrgy needed to reach, push or pull these actuator controls. Most of the controls are at the finger tips of the operator providing easy access.
Simultaneous functions can ~e accomplished easily.
Each of the finger tip controls has a different shape, feel, and/or actuation movement, so that each control actuator is easily distinguished from its neighboring control a~tuators~ Each function is easily selected, thus eliminating confusion, and allowing the operator to easily learn to operate the vehicle. This ease of operation translates into operating efficiency.
These actuators require a minimum of motion and/or energy to access and operate. This additionally translates into operating efficiency.
The actuators have been designed to provide tactile awareness. They conform to the natural, intuitive motions and senses of the operator, and to the functions that are being actuated. This translates into operating safety.
The ergonometric control system of this invention therefore provides controls that the operator will find comfortable, easy to operate, efficient and safe.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Xn accordance with the present invention, there is provided an ergonometric control system -for material handling vehicles, such as fork lift trucks. The system comprises a pair of right and 2 ~
left control handles. The handles are disposed about the operator compartment of the vehicle, and are utilized to control the vehicle. The handles conform to the respective right and left hand grips of the operator. The handles provide operator support throughout vehicle operation. As such, this conformity to the hand grips provides comfortable controls as well as ease of vehicle operation. ~ach handle comprises a plurality of closely spaced, easily accessed function actuators that allow for simultaneous control of two or more vehicular functions. All the actuators are integrated into their respective handle~ such that they are within finger tip reach of the operator's hand. These actuators and handles each provide intuitive sense control. That is, each handle and actuator moves in the same sense as the function for which it is designed. For example, when seated or standing while facing the forks, the right handle is thrust forward for forks first movement and backward for tractor first movement of the fork lift vehicle.
A lift/lower lever actuator on the top portion of the right handle is positioned off-center, so that the operator pushes upward or downward on this lever to effectuate the respective lifting and lowering of the main mast or auxiliary mast. A
horn push button is disposed adjacent the lift/lower lever on the right handle. Below the horn button is disposed a two-position, toggle-type, automatic/manual select switch for selecting manual steering or automatic (guide wire) control of the vehicle. Still another push button disposed adjacent the automatic/manual select switch coordinates vehicle rotation and travel functions, 2~ 03~
On the top portion of the left handle is located a fork rotate lever disposed off-center.
This fork rotate lever is pushed either to the right (CW) or left (CCW) for actuating the rotation of the ~orks either clockwise (CW) or counter-clockwise (CCW), respectively. Below the fork rotate lever is a push button for selecting the auxiliary mast over the main mast. Actuating the lift/lower lever causes the main mast to lift or lower, and actuating the lift/lower lever while depressing the mast select push button causes the auxiliary mast to lift or lower. ~djacent the mast select push button is an optional three-position toggle~type selector switch for tilting the forks.
Next to this switch is a push button for overriding the mast vertical travel limit.
The left control handle itself can be thrust forward and backward to provide movement of the auxiliary mast and forks to the left and to the right, respectively.
Large movements are not necessary to actuate or control the various function actuators, or to move from one actuator to the other. In this manner, the actuators are more electrically, rather than mechanically actuatable.
Substantially all of the actuators are physically and functionally distinct in how they are accessed, so that they do not cause confusion between the particular functions being controlled.
This in turn makes the control system easier to learn and to operate.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
A complete understanding of the present invention may be obtained by reference to the accompanying drawings, when considered in 2 ~ 3 conjunction with the subsequent detailed description, in which:
FIGURE 1 illustrates a perspective view of a swing-reach type material handling vehicle featurillg the ergonometric control system of this invention, and a vehicle operator sitting at the controls;
FIGURE 2 shows a perspective, front view of the ergonometric control system and operator seat;
and FIGURES 3a and 3B illustrate a back view of the right and left control arms of the ergonometric control system depicted in FIGURE 1.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
Generally speaking, the invention features a new ergonometric control system for a material handling vehicle, such as a fork lift truck. The control system of the inv~ntion is user friendly.
The controls have been designed to be comfortable to the vehicle operator, provide easier access to the function actuators, and allow for simultaneous control of two or more vehicle functions.
For purposes o~ clarity and brevity, like components and elements will bear the same designation throughout the figures.
Now referring to FIGURE 1, a swing-reach truck 10 is shown, with an operator 9 sitting at the ergonometric controls of this invention. The ergonometric controls are part of an operator compartment described in greater detail hereinbelow. The swing-reach truck 10 is a typical type of material handling vehicle that can benefit from the ergonometric control system of this invention. It is to be understood that this vehicle is one of many vehicles that can utilize the invention, and is displayed herein by way of example The swing-reach truck 10 comprises a pair of forks 12 that are carried upon a rotatable frame 13 so that the forks 12 can rotate 180 from facing le~t with respect to the seated operator 9 (as shown) to facing right. The rotatable frame 13 is rotatively connected to extension arm 14 via a rotating shaft 15.
Extension arm 14 is vertically movable upon an auxiliary mast 16 via a chain 19, which is carried by a hydraulic cylinder 19a. Thus, the forks 12 are movable up and down (arrow 20).
Auxiliary mast 16 is horizontally movable alona upper and lower racks 25 and 26, respectivelyO In this way, the mast/fork assembly can be transported from the seated operator's right (as shown) to his left.
Moreover, forks 12 are extendable from rotatable frame 13 on a scissor-like mechanism (not shown). This extending action occurs automatically at the end of the horizontal movement of mast 16 along racks 26 and 26, thus bridging the gap between vehicle lo and storage racks, not shown.
The operator platform 18, carrying the operator 9 and auxiliary mast assembly 16, is likewise movable up and down (arrows 22) via a main mast 21 via chains, not shown, which are carried by hydraulic cylinders, not shown.
Referring to FIGURE 2, it will be observed that the control arms 24 and 25 each carry respective right and left control handles 30 and 31. Control arm 25 also carries a vehicle steering knob 29, and control arm 24 also carries an emergency power off (EPO) palm depress button 26.
On arm 24 there is mounted a control console 27 which includes a power key switch 27a, an oparator display ~7b and a plurality of selector switches 27c for work li.ghts and fans.
Referring to FIGIJRES 3a and 3b, the control handles 30 and 31 are shown in an operating position facing towards the forks. Ik will be noted that the right control handle 30 is a mirror image of the control handle 31. However, each control arm, with its respective actuators described hereinbelow, controls different functions. The control handles 30 and 31 are shaped to conform to the grip of the operator 9.
The respective contoured surfaces 40 and 41 conform to the clenched hands of the operator, and provide a comfortable grasp of the control handles 30 and 31, respectively. This is important, because these handles can serve to support the operator 9 during the operation and movement of the vehicle.
Control handle 30 controls the vehicle travel direction and speed when it is rotationally displaced about axis 35. Control handle 31 controls the horizontal displacement and speed of auxiliary mast 16 along racks 25 and 26, including the extension of the scissor-like mechanism, not shown. Pushing control handle 31 moves auxiliary mast 16 to the left, while pulling handle 31 moves mast 16 to the right.
The right control handle 30 has a number of distinctive actuators A, B, C and D, which correspond to the actuators A', B', C' and D' disposed on control handle 31. It will also be - observed that each of the respective actuators A, B, C, and D, or A', B', C' and D' on the right or the left control arms 30 and 31, respectively, has a difEerent shape, and actuates a control function in a different way~ For example, actuator levers D
and D' each are disposed at the top portions 50 of the contrctl arms. They are located in off-center locations on top portions 50, necessitating that the thumb of the hand must push upwardly or downwardly (arrows 45 and ~6) upon these levers to effectuate lever movement. Lever D controls the lifting or lowering speed of the forks 12 upon main mast 21, while lever D' controls the rotation direction and speed of the forks with respect to support arm 14.
The respective flat buttons A and A' control the vehicle horn and the lift/lower selection of the auxiliary mast 16 respectively, in the lift mode. In operation, button A' is held depressed while lever D is rotated in order to raise or lower the auxiliary mast 16. If lever D is rotated without depressing button A', the main mast 21 i5 controlled. These buttons must be depressed by the thumb, rather than pushed or pulled, as required for levers D and D', in order to actuate their functions~
Selector switches B and B' respectively control the manual/automatic vehicle travel mode and the fork tilting positions. The manual~automatic vehicle tra~el mode relates to either drivar operated or guided vehicular control.
The three-position spring return-to-center selector switch B' allows the forks 12 to tilt upwardly or downwardly. Selector switch B is a two-position rocker switch, and requires a rocking motion to effect actuation of the desired function. These switches B and B' can generally be actuated by the middle fingers or thumb of the operator's hand.
Finally, the round cap button C, in conjunction with left control handle 31, selects 2 ~ '3 the coordination between rotation of forks 12 and horizontal traverse of auxiliary mast 16 along racks 25 and 26 in accordance with a preprogrammed speed/displacement profile. Round cap button C' is used, when lifting, to override the main mast lift/limit switch, not shown. These round cap buttons C and C~ can be depressed by the operator's thumb in order to actuate their functions.
Thus it will be evident that all of the switches, and the control handles themselves, have different functions, different shapes and feel, and different modes of actuation. In this manner, it is unlikely that an operator will confuse the vehicle function which he desires to invoke with the actuation of these control elements.
It is also to be noted that each switch, button, lever, etc., including the control handles, is designed to move in a direction that is conceived to be functionally proper by the operator. This tactile awareness also assists in actuating the various functions properly, and avoids costly errors.
Also, it should be o~served that since all the control elements are closely spaced and can be actuated by either hand, it is possible to invoke a plurality (at least two) of functions simultaneously.
The present invention, by placing all the control functions within finger-tip control, not only eliminates th~ previous need to move between control levers, but also eliminates large throw distances for actuation. All of the advantages of the invention provide a reduction in energy and effort. At the end of the work shift, the operator will be less tired and fatigued. Also, as aforementioned, the control handles 30 and 31 have 3 ~
been des.igned to fit comfortably within the operator's hand, in order to reduce fatigue and make the work more enjoyable.
Since other modifications and changes varied to fit particular operating requirements and environments will be apparent to those skilled in the art, the invention is not considered limited to the example chosen for purposes o~ disclosure, and covers all changes and modifications which do not constitute departures from the true spirit and scope of this invention.
Having thus described the current invention, what is desired to be protected by Letters Patent is presented by the subsequently appended claims.
What i5 claimed is:
AN ERGONOME _ C CONTROL SYSTEM FOR
SWING REACH VEHICLE_ Field of the Invention The invention relates to an advanced control system for material handling vehicles containing new and improved control features for combining ease of operation with safety, and more particularly to an ergonometric set of controls for operating fork lift vehicles with greater comfort, ease, efficiency and saf~ty.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Anyone who has ever observed the operation of, or who has actually operated a fork lift vehicle will appreciate the complexity of the various control levers for achieving the movement of the vehicle and its subsystems, such as carriage, forXs and mast. Even experienced material handling operators will occasionally pull or depress the wrong lever, when operating their vehicles.
While a rigorous training course is always required before an operator is certified to operate these vehicles, more complex vehicle controls require more complex training. The more complex the controls, the greater the possibility of improper operation. Additionally, more complex controls require increased focus over a long shift, a situation that unfortunately lends itself to loss of operator's attention. Loss of attention results in fatigue that could lead to improper or hazardous operation of the vehicle.
It is not uncommon for the fork lift operators to complain that their hands, feet and/or back hurt after a normal operating shift. The controls are often uncomfortable to the hand. Some levers are 2 ~ ~ t''~
remotel~ located about the operator compartment, and require an extended reach ~or access.
Obviously, there is wasted motion moving from one lever to the next. Some typical controls that are presently in use require extended push or pull movements to actuate the desired vehicle movements.
All of these excessive operator movements and inconveniences of control access cause operator fatigue, cumulative trauma disorders such as carpal 10 tunnel syndrome, and operating inefficiencies. In addition, these extraneous movements threaten safe vehicle operation.
Some of the control levers are contrary to the normal senses of the operator relative to the 15 motions of the operation. For example, fork movement levers may require a push or a pull to lift or lower the lifting mechanism. At times the same lever may be used to actuate several functions via a secondary select switch. Such actuating 20 devices can cause confusion and inefficiency.
~otions contrary to the normal senses not only make the task of lParning to opera~e the material handlin~ vehicle more difficult, but may also be an underlying cause of confusion leading to improper 25 operation.
Many of the control levers now in use can be confused, because they have the same shape, motion, and actuation modality for different functions.
Levers disposed upon the same control panel are 30 often distinguishable only to the highly trained operator.
In summary, there are many drawbacks with the use of the current system of controls for material handling vehicles. These disadvantages may be 35 summarized as follows:
~a) There are just too many inconveniently placed control levers Eor e~ficient and convenient operation of the material handling vehicle;
(b) Safe operation of these control levers is not always clearly defined, and may be contrary to the normal senses of the operator relative to the motions of the operation;
(c) Present day control levers are usually not designed with operator comfort in mind. The control or actuating levers are. not designed to be comfortable to the touch or grip of the operator;
(d) The complexity of the controls of a material handling vehicle lead to inefficiencies of operation. Often simultaneous operations cannot be performed;
(e) Control levers require too much operator effort to actuate the desired vehicle operation;
(f~ The operator must move from actuator to actuator to effect different control functions;
~0 ' (g) Levers are often indistinguishable in appearance and actuation, often leading to confusion as to which lever is to be thrown to effectuate a particular function; and (h) Most of the present day controls are more ~5 mechanically actuatable, rather than electrically actuatable.
The present invention seeks to overcome all of the above drawbacks and disadvantages.
The current invention seeks to reduce expended energies and motions by operators of fork lift vehicles in actuating the vehicular con~,rols.
These measurements have resulted in a new control ergonometry. Switching or selecting control ~unctions has been designed to be more electrically and less mechanically actuatable.
2 ~8 '~ ~ c~ tJ
A new pair of control levers or handles has been designed. The new handles are shaped -to conform to the grip of the human hand, thus providing operator comfort. Most of the control function actuators have been designed and integrated into these control handles, reducing the time and enPrgy needed to reach, push or pull these actuator controls. Most of the controls are at the finger tips of the operator providing easy access.
Simultaneous functions can ~e accomplished easily.
Each of the finger tip controls has a different shape, feel, and/or actuation movement, so that each control actuator is easily distinguished from its neighboring control a~tuators~ Each function is easily selected, thus eliminating confusion, and allowing the operator to easily learn to operate the vehicle. This ease of operation translates into operating efficiency.
These actuators require a minimum of motion and/or energy to access and operate. This additionally translates into operating efficiency.
The actuators have been designed to provide tactile awareness. They conform to the natural, intuitive motions and senses of the operator, and to the functions that are being actuated. This translates into operating safety.
The ergonometric control system of this invention therefore provides controls that the operator will find comfortable, easy to operate, efficient and safe.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Xn accordance with the present invention, there is provided an ergonometric control system -for material handling vehicles, such as fork lift trucks. The system comprises a pair of right and 2 ~
left control handles. The handles are disposed about the operator compartment of the vehicle, and are utilized to control the vehicle. The handles conform to the respective right and left hand grips of the operator. The handles provide operator support throughout vehicle operation. As such, this conformity to the hand grips provides comfortable controls as well as ease of vehicle operation. ~ach handle comprises a plurality of closely spaced, easily accessed function actuators that allow for simultaneous control of two or more vehicular functions. All the actuators are integrated into their respective handle~ such that they are within finger tip reach of the operator's hand. These actuators and handles each provide intuitive sense control. That is, each handle and actuator moves in the same sense as the function for which it is designed. For example, when seated or standing while facing the forks, the right handle is thrust forward for forks first movement and backward for tractor first movement of the fork lift vehicle.
A lift/lower lever actuator on the top portion of the right handle is positioned off-center, so that the operator pushes upward or downward on this lever to effectuate the respective lifting and lowering of the main mast or auxiliary mast. A
horn push button is disposed adjacent the lift/lower lever on the right handle. Below the horn button is disposed a two-position, toggle-type, automatic/manual select switch for selecting manual steering or automatic (guide wire) control of the vehicle. Still another push button disposed adjacent the automatic/manual select switch coordinates vehicle rotation and travel functions, 2~ 03~
On the top portion of the left handle is located a fork rotate lever disposed off-center.
This fork rotate lever is pushed either to the right (CW) or left (CCW) for actuating the rotation of the ~orks either clockwise (CW) or counter-clockwise (CCW), respectively. Below the fork rotate lever is a push button for selecting the auxiliary mast over the main mast. Actuating the lift/lower lever causes the main mast to lift or lower, and actuating the lift/lower lever while depressing the mast select push button causes the auxiliary mast to lift or lower. ~djacent the mast select push button is an optional three-position toggle~type selector switch for tilting the forks.
Next to this switch is a push button for overriding the mast vertical travel limit.
The left control handle itself can be thrust forward and backward to provide movement of the auxiliary mast and forks to the left and to the right, respectively.
Large movements are not necessary to actuate or control the various function actuators, or to move from one actuator to the other. In this manner, the actuators are more electrically, rather than mechanically actuatable.
Substantially all of the actuators are physically and functionally distinct in how they are accessed, so that they do not cause confusion between the particular functions being controlled.
This in turn makes the control system easier to learn and to operate.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
A complete understanding of the present invention may be obtained by reference to the accompanying drawings, when considered in 2 ~ 3 conjunction with the subsequent detailed description, in which:
FIGURE 1 illustrates a perspective view of a swing-reach type material handling vehicle featurillg the ergonometric control system of this invention, and a vehicle operator sitting at the controls;
FIGURE 2 shows a perspective, front view of the ergonometric control system and operator seat;
and FIGURES 3a and 3B illustrate a back view of the right and left control arms of the ergonometric control system depicted in FIGURE 1.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
Generally speaking, the invention features a new ergonometric control system for a material handling vehicle, such as a fork lift truck. The control system of the inv~ntion is user friendly.
The controls have been designed to be comfortable to the vehicle operator, provide easier access to the function actuators, and allow for simultaneous control of two or more vehicle functions.
For purposes o~ clarity and brevity, like components and elements will bear the same designation throughout the figures.
Now referring to FIGURE 1, a swing-reach truck 10 is shown, with an operator 9 sitting at the ergonometric controls of this invention. The ergonometric controls are part of an operator compartment described in greater detail hereinbelow. The swing-reach truck 10 is a typical type of material handling vehicle that can benefit from the ergonometric control system of this invention. It is to be understood that this vehicle is one of many vehicles that can utilize the invention, and is displayed herein by way of example The swing-reach truck 10 comprises a pair of forks 12 that are carried upon a rotatable frame 13 so that the forks 12 can rotate 180 from facing le~t with respect to the seated operator 9 (as shown) to facing right. The rotatable frame 13 is rotatively connected to extension arm 14 via a rotating shaft 15.
Extension arm 14 is vertically movable upon an auxiliary mast 16 via a chain 19, which is carried by a hydraulic cylinder 19a. Thus, the forks 12 are movable up and down (arrow 20).
Auxiliary mast 16 is horizontally movable alona upper and lower racks 25 and 26, respectivelyO In this way, the mast/fork assembly can be transported from the seated operator's right (as shown) to his left.
Moreover, forks 12 are extendable from rotatable frame 13 on a scissor-like mechanism (not shown). This extending action occurs automatically at the end of the horizontal movement of mast 16 along racks 26 and 26, thus bridging the gap between vehicle lo and storage racks, not shown.
The operator platform 18, carrying the operator 9 and auxiliary mast assembly 16, is likewise movable up and down (arrows 22) via a main mast 21 via chains, not shown, which are carried by hydraulic cylinders, not shown.
Referring to FIGURE 2, it will be observed that the control arms 24 and 25 each carry respective right and left control handles 30 and 31. Control arm 25 also carries a vehicle steering knob 29, and control arm 24 also carries an emergency power off (EPO) palm depress button 26.
On arm 24 there is mounted a control console 27 which includes a power key switch 27a, an oparator display ~7b and a plurality of selector switches 27c for work li.ghts and fans.
Referring to FIGIJRES 3a and 3b, the control handles 30 and 31 are shown in an operating position facing towards the forks. Ik will be noted that the right control handle 30 is a mirror image of the control handle 31. However, each control arm, with its respective actuators described hereinbelow, controls different functions. The control handles 30 and 31 are shaped to conform to the grip of the operator 9.
The respective contoured surfaces 40 and 41 conform to the clenched hands of the operator, and provide a comfortable grasp of the control handles 30 and 31, respectively. This is important, because these handles can serve to support the operator 9 during the operation and movement of the vehicle.
Control handle 30 controls the vehicle travel direction and speed when it is rotationally displaced about axis 35. Control handle 31 controls the horizontal displacement and speed of auxiliary mast 16 along racks 25 and 26, including the extension of the scissor-like mechanism, not shown. Pushing control handle 31 moves auxiliary mast 16 to the left, while pulling handle 31 moves mast 16 to the right.
The right control handle 30 has a number of distinctive actuators A, B, C and D, which correspond to the actuators A', B', C' and D' disposed on control handle 31. It will also be - observed that each of the respective actuators A, B, C, and D, or A', B', C' and D' on the right or the left control arms 30 and 31, respectively, has a difEerent shape, and actuates a control function in a different way~ For example, actuator levers D
and D' each are disposed at the top portions 50 of the contrctl arms. They are located in off-center locations on top portions 50, necessitating that the thumb of the hand must push upwardly or downwardly (arrows 45 and ~6) upon these levers to effectuate lever movement. Lever D controls the lifting or lowering speed of the forks 12 upon main mast 21, while lever D' controls the rotation direction and speed of the forks with respect to support arm 14.
The respective flat buttons A and A' control the vehicle horn and the lift/lower selection of the auxiliary mast 16 respectively, in the lift mode. In operation, button A' is held depressed while lever D is rotated in order to raise or lower the auxiliary mast 16. If lever D is rotated without depressing button A', the main mast 21 i5 controlled. These buttons must be depressed by the thumb, rather than pushed or pulled, as required for levers D and D', in order to actuate their functions~
Selector switches B and B' respectively control the manual/automatic vehicle travel mode and the fork tilting positions. The manual~automatic vehicle tra~el mode relates to either drivar operated or guided vehicular control.
The three-position spring return-to-center selector switch B' allows the forks 12 to tilt upwardly or downwardly. Selector switch B is a two-position rocker switch, and requires a rocking motion to effect actuation of the desired function. These switches B and B' can generally be actuated by the middle fingers or thumb of the operator's hand.
Finally, the round cap button C, in conjunction with left control handle 31, selects 2 ~ '3 the coordination between rotation of forks 12 and horizontal traverse of auxiliary mast 16 along racks 25 and 26 in accordance with a preprogrammed speed/displacement profile. Round cap button C' is used, when lifting, to override the main mast lift/limit switch, not shown. These round cap buttons C and C~ can be depressed by the operator's thumb in order to actuate their functions.
Thus it will be evident that all of the switches, and the control handles themselves, have different functions, different shapes and feel, and different modes of actuation. In this manner, it is unlikely that an operator will confuse the vehicle function which he desires to invoke with the actuation of these control elements.
It is also to be noted that each switch, button, lever, etc., including the control handles, is designed to move in a direction that is conceived to be functionally proper by the operator. This tactile awareness also assists in actuating the various functions properly, and avoids costly errors.
Also, it should be o~served that since all the control elements are closely spaced and can be actuated by either hand, it is possible to invoke a plurality (at least two) of functions simultaneously.
The present invention, by placing all the control functions within finger-tip control, not only eliminates th~ previous need to move between control levers, but also eliminates large throw distances for actuation. All of the advantages of the invention provide a reduction in energy and effort. At the end of the work shift, the operator will be less tired and fatigued. Also, as aforementioned, the control handles 30 and 31 have 3 ~
been des.igned to fit comfortably within the operator's hand, in order to reduce fatigue and make the work more enjoyable.
Since other modifications and changes varied to fit particular operating requirements and environments will be apparent to those skilled in the art, the invention is not considered limited to the example chosen for purposes o~ disclosure, and covers all changes and modifications which do not constitute departures from the true spirit and scope of this invention.
Having thus described the current invention, what is desired to be protected by Letters Patent is presented by the subsequently appended claims.
What i5 claimed is:
Claims (21)
1. An ergonometric control system for material handling vehicles, such as fork lift trucks, comprising:
a pair of respective right and left control handles, said handles being disposed about an operator compartment portion of the material handling vehicle for providing control of vehicular functions, said respective right and left control handles conforming to respective right and left hand grips of a vehicle operator, and said right and left handles providing operator support throughout vehicle operation, whereby said conformity to the hand grips of the vehicle operator provides operator comfort and ease of vehicle operation.
a pair of respective right and left control handles, said handles being disposed about an operator compartment portion of the material handling vehicle for providing control of vehicular functions, said respective right and left control handles conforming to respective right and left hand grips of a vehicle operator, and said right and left handles providing operator support throughout vehicle operation, whereby said conformity to the hand grips of the vehicle operator provides operator comfort and ease of vehicle operation.
2. The ergonometric control system in accordance with claim 1, wherein each handle comprises a plurality of closely spaced and easily accessed function actuators that are integrated into their respective handle, such that they are within finger tip reach of the operator's hand.
3. The ergonometric control system in accordance with claim 1, wherein each handle comprises a plurality of closely spaced and easily accessed function actuators that allow for simultaneous control of two or more vehicular functions.
4. The ergonometric control system in accordance with claim 3, wherein substantially all of the actuators in each handle are integrated into their respective handle, such that they are within finger tip reach of the operator's hand.
5. The ergonometric control system in accordance with claim 2, wherein said actuators and handles each provide intuitive sense control, wherein each handle and actuator moves in a same sense as a function for which it is designed.
6. The ergonometric control system in accordance with claim 3, wherein said actuators and handles each provide intuitive sense control, wherein each handle and actuator moves in a same sense as a function for which it is designed.
7. The ergonometric control system in accordance with claim 2, wherein said actuators are physically and functionally distinct in how they are accessed, so that they do not cause confusion between particular functions to be controlled.
8. The ergonometric control system in accordance with claim 3, wherein said actuators are physically and functionally distinct in how they are accessed, so that they do not cause confusion between particular functions to be controlled.
9. The ergonometric control system in accordance with claim 1, wherein said right and left handles respectively control forward and backward movement of said material handling vehicle, and right and left movement of fork lift truck forks.
10. The ergonometric control system in accordance with claim 2, wherein said actuators are selected from a group of at least one actuator consisting of: vehicle travel control, a horn control, an automatic/manual select switch for selecting manual or automatic control of the vehicle, means for coordination of vehicle rotation and auxiliary mast traverse functions, means for raising and lowering the main mast, auxiliary mast traverse and scissor extension/retraction, means for actuating the rotation of the forks, means for selecting the auxiliary mast lift/lower, a selector switch for tilting the forks, and by-pass means for overriding the main mast lift limit.
11. The ergonometric control system in accordance with claim 3, wherein said actuators are selected from a group of at least one actuator consisting of: vehicle travel control, a horn control, an automatic/manual select switch for selecting manual or automatic control of the vehicle, means for coordination of vehicle rotation and auxiliary mast traverse functions, means for raising and lowering the main mast, auxiliary mast traverse and scissor extension/retraction, means for actuating the rotation of the forks, means for selecting the auxiliary mast lift/lower, a selector switch for tilting the forks, and by-pass means for overriding the main mast lift limit.
12. An ergonometric control system for material handling vehicles, such as fork lift trucks, comprising:
a pair of respective right and left control handles, said handles being disposed about a operator compartment portion of the material handling vehicle for providing control of vehicular functions, said respective right and left control handles conforming to respective right and left hand grips of a vehicle operator, and said right and left handles providing operator support throughout vehicle operation, whereby said conformity to the hand grips of the vehicle operator provides operator comfort and ease of vehicle operation, each handle including a plurality of closely spaced and easily accessed function actuators for controlling vehicle functions, said function actuators being integrated into their respective handle, such that they are within finger tip reach of an operator's hand.
a pair of respective right and left control handles, said handles being disposed about a operator compartment portion of the material handling vehicle for providing control of vehicular functions, said respective right and left control handles conforming to respective right and left hand grips of a vehicle operator, and said right and left handles providing operator support throughout vehicle operation, whereby said conformity to the hand grips of the vehicle operator provides operator comfort and ease of vehicle operation, each handle including a plurality of closely spaced and easily accessed function actuators for controlling vehicle functions, said function actuators being integrated into their respective handle, such that they are within finger tip reach of an operator's hand.
13. The ergonometric control system in accordance with claim 12, wherein said actuators and handles each provide intuitive sense control, wherein each handle and actuator moves in a same sense as a function for which it is designed.
14. The ergonometric control system in accordance with claim 12, wherein said actuators are physically and functionally distinct in how they are accessed, so that they do not cause confusion between particular functions to be controlled.
15. The ergonometric control system in accordance with claim 12, wherein said right and left handles respectively control forward and backward movement of said material handling vehicle, and right and left movement of fork lift truck forks.
16. The ergonometric control system in accordance with claim 12, wherein said actuators are selected from a group of at least one actuator consisting of: vehicle travel control, a horn control, an automatic/manual select switch for selecting manual or automatic control of the vehicle, means for coordination of vehicle rotation and auxiliary mast traverse functions, means for raising and lowering the main mast, auxiliary mast traverse and scissor extension/retraction, means for actuating the rotation of the forks, means for selecting the auxiliary mast lift/lower, a selector switch for tilting the forks, and by-pass means for overriding the main mast lift limit.
17. An ergonometric control system for material handling vehicles, such as fork lift trucks, comprising:
a pair of respective right and left control handles, said handles being disposed about a operator compartment portion of the material handling vehicle for providing control of vehicular functions, said respective right and left control handles conforming to respective right and left hand grips of a vehicle operator, and said right and left handles providing operator support throughout vehicle operation, whereby said conformity to the hand grips of the vehicle operator provides operator comfort and ease of vehicle operation, each handle comprising a plurality of closely spaced and easily accessed function actuators that are integrated into their respective handle, and that allow for simultaneous control of two or more vehicular functions.
a pair of respective right and left control handles, said handles being disposed about a operator compartment portion of the material handling vehicle for providing control of vehicular functions, said respective right and left control handles conforming to respective right and left hand grips of a vehicle operator, and said right and left handles providing operator support throughout vehicle operation, whereby said conformity to the hand grips of the vehicle operator provides operator comfort and ease of vehicle operation, each handle comprising a plurality of closely spaced and easily accessed function actuators that are integrated into their respective handle, and that allow for simultaneous control of two or more vehicular functions.
18. The ergonometric control system in accordance with claim 17, wherein said actuators are physically and functionally distinct in how they are accessed, so that they do not cause confusion between particular functions to be controlled.
19. The ergonometric control system in accordance with claim 17, wherein said right and left handles respectively control forward and backward movement of said material handling vehicle, and right and left movement of fork lift truck forks.
20. The ergonometric control system in accordance with claim 17, wherein said actuators are selected from a group of at least one actuator consisting of: vehicle travel control, a horn control, an automatic/manual select switch for selecting manual or automatic control of the vehicle, means for coordination of vehicle rotation and auxiliary mast traverse functions means for raising and lowering the main mast, auxiliary mast traverse and scissor extension/retraction, means for actuating the rotation of the forks, means for selecting the auxiliary mast lift/lower, a selector switch for tilting the forks, and by-pass means for overriding the main mast lift limit.
21. An ergonometric control system for material handling vehicles, such as fork lift trucks, comprising:
a pair of respective right and left control handles, said handles being disposed about a operator compartment portion of the material handling vehicle for providing control of vehicular functions, said respective right and left control handles conforming to respective right and left hand grips of a vehicle operator, and said right and left handles providing operator support throughout vehicle operation, whereby said conformity to the hand grips of the vehicle operator provides operator comfort and ease of vehicle operation, each handle comprising a plurality of closely spaced and easily accessed function actuators that are integrated into their respective handle, and that are physically and functionally distinct in how they are accessed, so that they do not cause confusion between particular functions to be controlled.
a pair of respective right and left control handles, said handles being disposed about a operator compartment portion of the material handling vehicle for providing control of vehicular functions, said respective right and left control handles conforming to respective right and left hand grips of a vehicle operator, and said right and left handles providing operator support throughout vehicle operation, whereby said conformity to the hand grips of the vehicle operator provides operator comfort and ease of vehicle operation, each handle comprising a plurality of closely spaced and easily accessed function actuators that are integrated into their respective handle, and that are physically and functionally distinct in how they are accessed, so that they do not cause confusion between particular functions to be controlled.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US80217191A | 1991-12-04 | 1991-12-04 | |
| US802,171 | 1991-12-04 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2084033A1 true CA2084033A1 (en) | 1993-06-05 |
Family
ID=25183028
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2084033 Abandoned CA2084033A1 (en) | 1991-12-04 | 1992-11-27 | Ergonometric control system for swing reach vehicles |
Country Status (2)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| EP (1) | EP0545676A1 (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2084033A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (8)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DE9417838U1 (en) * | 1994-11-08 | 1994-12-22 | Jungheinrich Ag | Manually operated control device for a control station or seat |
| US5768947A (en) * | 1996-06-24 | 1998-06-23 | Caterpillar Inc. | Implement hand support and control |
| DE102004040457A1 (en) * | 2004-08-20 | 2006-02-23 | Jungheinrich Ag | Truck with ergonomically arranged controls |
| DE102005019321A1 (en) * | 2005-04-26 | 2006-11-02 | Still Gmbh | Truck with a multi-function lever |
| WO2009050745A1 (en) * | 2007-10-17 | 2009-04-23 | Komatsu Utility Europe S.P.A. | Control device for earth moving machines |
| DE102015112816A1 (en) * | 2015-08-04 | 2017-02-09 | Jungheinrich Aktiengesellschaft | Device for actuating a steering device of a truck |
| US10544022B2 (en) | 2016-10-13 | 2020-01-28 | The Raymond Corporation | Handle position sensing systems and methods for a material handling vehicle |
| CN112589817B (en) * | 2020-11-06 | 2023-04-07 | 兰州空间技术物理研究所 | Operation control method of space manipulator |
Family Cites Families (9)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US4140200A (en) * | 1977-05-27 | 1979-02-20 | J. I. Case Company | Control device and arm support |
| SE436154B (en) * | 1980-01-24 | 1984-11-12 | Olsbergs Hydraulic Ab | DEVICE TO CONTROL MEDIA SUPPLY TO A NUMBER OF CONSUMERS |
| DE3310626C2 (en) * | 1983-03-24 | 1985-02-14 | O & K Orenstein & Koppel Ag, 1000 Berlin | Control device |
| JPS59183957U (en) * | 1983-05-20 | 1984-12-07 | 株式会社小松製作所 | Construction machinery control device |
| US4896558A (en) * | 1988-06-01 | 1990-01-30 | Deere & Company | Control handle for a work vehicle |
| US4943756A (en) * | 1989-12-05 | 1990-07-24 | Crown Equipment Corporation | Control of hydraulic systems |
| DE9005392U1 (en) * | 1989-12-22 | 1990-07-19 | Siemens Ag, 1000 Berlin Und 8000 Muenchen, De | |
| CA2036552A1 (en) * | 1990-02-21 | 1991-08-22 | Joseph C. Bamford | Skid steer vehicle |
| DE9204392U1 (en) * | 1992-04-01 | 1992-05-27 | Licentia Patent-Verwaltungs-Gmbh, 6000 Frankfurt, De |
-
1992
- 1992-11-27 CA CA 2084033 patent/CA2084033A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 1992-12-02 EP EP92310984A patent/EP0545676A1/en not_active Withdrawn
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| EP0545676A1 (en) | 1993-06-09 |
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| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EEER | Examination request | ||
| FZDE | Dead |