Classifications

• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
  • B62K—CYCLES; CYCLE FRAMES; CYCLE STEERING DEVICES; RIDER-OPERATED TERMINAL CONTROLS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR CYCLES; CYCLE AXLE SUSPENSIONS; CYCLE SIDECARS, FORECARS, OR THE LIKE
  • B62K23/00—Rider-operated controls specially adapted for cycles, i.e. means for initiating control operations, e.g. levers, grips
  • B62K23/02—Rider-operated controls specially adapted for cycles, i.e. means for initiating control operations, e.g. levers, grips hand actuated
  • B62K23/06—Levers
• • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
  • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
  • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
  • Y10T74/00—Machine element or mechanism
  • Y10T74/20—Control lever and linkage systems
  • Y10T74/20207—Multiple controlling elements for single controlled element
  • Y10T74/20256—Steering and controls assemblies
  • Y10T74/20268—Reciprocating control elements
  • Y10T74/2028—Handle bar type
• • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
  • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
  • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
  • Y10T74/00—Machine element or mechanism
  • Y10T74/20—Control lever and linkage systems
  • Y10T74/20396—Hand operated
• • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
  • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
  • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
  • Y10T74/00—Machine element or mechanism
  • Y10T74/20—Control lever and linkage systems
  • Y10T74/20396—Hand operated
  • Y10T74/20402—Flexible transmitter [e.g., Bowden cable]
  • Y10T74/2042—Flexible transmitter [e.g., Bowden cable] and hand operator
  • Y10T74/20438—Single rotatable lever [e.g., for bicycle brake or derailleur]
• • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
  • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
  • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
  • Y10T74/00—Machine element or mechanism
  • Y10T74/20—Control lever and linkage systems
  • Y10T74/20576—Elements
  • Y10T74/20582—Levers
  • Y10T74/20612—Hand

Definitions

• the present invention relates to the field of manual control devices of a machine, coupled to a handle for gripping the machine.
• the device makes it possible to control in a sensitive and non-tiring manner a command of one of the slave systems of this machine.
• a large amount of grip of the hand on the handle of a machine is generally necessary to allow proper maintenance of the machine and its safe use. It is difficult to reconcile a vigorous grip of a handle of a machine and to exert at the same time a command coupled on this handle.
• Some machines have a handle to hold the machine. This is the case of portable tools such as drills, brushcutters, jackhammers or chainsaws. In other machines, such as motorcycles, the handle or handles are used to hold the machine. Finally, there are other machines such as quads, jet skis or motorcycles, whose handles allow the pilot user to maintain himself on the machine. All these types of machines require a vigorous grip of one or more handles.
• slave systems can be ordered punctually at the time of a setpoint change. This is the case, for example, of gearbox controls. The hand of the user is then solicited only occasionally, to control the machine. The grip of the machine can withstand being slightly weakened during the punctual control operation.
• Other slave systems need to be controlled in a continuous or quasi-permanent manner such as the controls of a carburettor, or the speed of an electric motor. A particular problem arises for manual controls to be operated for a long time, from a firmly grasped handle. It is necessary to reduce a risk of cramp in the muscles of the hand requested for the actuation of the command.
• control systems comprising means for sampling the setpoint also pose an effective grip problem, since the hand continues to act between two samples of this setpoint.
• the control of a slave system on one of these handles generally leads to a lack of grip because it requires either the use of one or more fingers or that of the wrist, resulting in thus an imbalance with the opposite handle. This imbalance can be relatively dangerous because it affects the grip of the handlebars and therefore the ability to maintain and steer the machine.
• the handle control system must also allow precise control that is not tiring over time.
• the most conventional handle mounted controls generally control servo systems such as throttle, brake, clutch or gear ratio controls.
• vehicle-mounted brake controls use an articulated lever positioned in front of the handle.
• This lever is generally actuated by one or more of the fingers (index, middle, ring, ear) which, when closing, press on the lever, creating via a hydraulic system a pressure which controls the braking system.
• a control handle device that can control the throttle.
• This system is constituted by a rotating handle winding a cable which controls a flap of gases.
• To perform this command in rotation one can leave all the fingers tightened on the handle allowing a correct grip of this one but one must bend permanently, and sometimes in a consequent way, the wrist in order to generate the command.
• the rest position of the control corresponds to the natural position of the wrist.
• the command is generated by flexing the wrist to the physiological limit of the wrist. This continuous flexing of the wrist causes obvious discomfort and generates an imbalance with the opposite arm that keeps his wrist a natural and not tiring position.
• the flexion of the wrist physiologically affects the ability of flexion extension of the fingers and therefore the grip.
• an increase in flexion of the wrist causes not only discomfort for the steering of the vehicle but also a decrease in the grip capacity and especially for grip.
• the faster we accelerate and we go faster the less the wrist position and the grip are good.
• the throttle control is generally performed with a small lever also called a trigger articulated in front of the handle and actuated by a traction of the index.
• a small lever also called a trigger articulated in front of the handle and actuated by a traction of the index.
• This loss of the index forces to increase the effort on the other fingers (major, annular, auricular) to compensate for the imbalance of effort with the other handle which she has all these fingers for the grip.
• the index is not the most robust finger to actuate a command that sometimes turns out to be hard, so we often get premature fatigue of the muscles of the index to see cramps.
• Patent application WO 2006/091197 discloses a tilting lever for a bicycle.
• the disclosed device includes a ratchet mechanism between the handle and the tilt lever.
• To act on the lever the user must open the thumb, stop tightening the handle with the thumb, and pull the thumb down to reach the lever. After pressing the lever, tightening the handle is possible again when the thumb has left the lever.
• the application EP 1 3 12 541 describes a gearshift device for a bicycle. Again, the rider should lift the thumb and lift it off the handle to reach the shifter.
• a disadvantage common to the levers described in the two aforementioned patent applications is that the actuation of the control is accompanied by a weakening of the grip of the handle.
• the type of lever is a one-off control system and does not control continuous control systems.
• the invention provides a manual control device comprising a grab handle of a machine which overcomes at least one of the above disadvantages.
• An object of the invention is to allow a good grip of the handle while allowing to control a slave system of the machine, and in particular a continuous control system.
• the manual control device comprises a handle intended to be gripped by a hand with a thumb.
• the device includes a trigger for being subjected to a pressure of the phalangin of the thumb.
• the trigger is disposed relative to the handle so as to be subject to pressure of the phalangin while the phalanx of said thumb is supported along the handle.
• the trigger position characteristic with respect to the handle is defined by considering an average hand of a user of the machine, also referred to as a reference hand.
• the fact that the phalanx of the thumb can reach a trigger without forcing the thumb phalanx to dislodge from the handle allows a firm grip of the handle, while allowing the phalangin to act on the handle. trigger to control a system.
• the contact of the phalanx on the handle, during the action of the phalangin allows to tighten the handle between the phalanx and the other fingers while leaving free the action of phalangin.
• the trigger comprises a pushing end, said pushing end in the rest position being located at least partly facing the inner face of the phalangin of said thumb in extension, the phalanx of said thumb being supported along the handle .
• the grip of the handle remains optimal because the Phalanx of the thumb is short and the corresponding muscles are powerful.
• Using the phalangin of the thumb to control a system allows more sensitive control than commands using the action of the hand index, for example.
• the thumb is the finger of the hand at once the most powerful and the most subtle, because it is controlled by eight muscles.
• the trigger is arranged to be actuated by a thumb resting on the handle by an inner lateral side of the phalanx.
• the phalanx / phalangeal reference plane of one inch is defined as the average plane in which phalanx and phalangin evolve naturally.
• the term "lateral sides” of an inch means the sides whose normals are substantially perpendicular to the reference plane.
• the inner lateral side is the one facing the other fingers of the hand.
• the muscles allowing movement of the phalangin are mainly located on the inner and outer faces of the phalanx.
• the lateral side of the phalanx of the thumb does not include a phalanin actuating muscle.
• the phalangin can act on the trigger with a weak and long effort, without imposing relaxation to the grip of the handle by the phalanx.
• the muscular contractions of the hand and the arm due to the grip are decoupled from the contraction of the muscles of actuation of the phalangin.
• the control of the trigger remains sensitive and not tiring despite the efforts grabbing the handle. This makes it possible to drive continuously controlled systems.
• the handle is elongated along an axis of the handle
• the device has a reference plane parallel to an axis of the handle in which the phalanx can be moved along the handle and the phalangin of the thumb .
• the handle is elongated along an axis of the handle, the device comprising gripping prepositioning means of a reference hand, such that a phalanx / phalangeal reference plane has a gripping angle ( B) relative to the axis of the handle less than 50 degrees, and preferably less than 25 degrees.
• the gripping prepositioning means are such that a mean metacarpal plane is substantially parallel to the axis of the handle.
• the prepositioning means have a main grip position, a main reference plane and a main thumb extension position of said reference hand.
• An advantage of this device lies in the fact that it allows to keep the phalanx of the thumb in permanent support with the handle while using the natural movement of the phalangin and / or the phalanx around their respective joints to carry out the command.
• the position of the reference plane relative to the handle depends in particular on the shape and size of the cross section of the handle at the point of clamping between the phalanx, the palm and the index finger.
• this cross-section may be of sufficiently small size for the phalanx to tighten the handle and for the phalanx / phalangin reference plane is parallel to the metacarpal plane defined by the metacarpals of the other fingers and parallel to the axis of the handle.
• the thumb metacarpal is not in the optimal clamping position, but is reassembled on the side of the hand.
• the prepositioning means of the hand are such that the metacarpal plane is slightly inclined relative to the axis of the handle, so that the phalanx clamps the handle while the thumb metacarp is in the clamp position natural and that the reference plane phalanx / phalangin is parallel to the axis of the handle.
• the device has several gripping positions of the handle and in which the trigger comprises a thrust piece extending around the handle so that at each grip position, the end of the grip Phalangine is next to the thrust piece.
• the driver In the case of motocross or j-ski, the driver must be able to firmly hold the machine in several positions both sitting and standing on the machine. In sitting position, the forearm of the user is horizontal. While standing, this forearm is reassembled.
• the natural grip of the handle corresponds to a position where the metacarps of the hand are in the extension of the forearm.
• the handle has a substantially horizontal reference plane corresponding to the sitting position, and an inclined reference plane corresponding to a standing position.
• the fact that the thrust piece extends around the handle allows that, whatever the position of the thumb phalanx, between the sitting and / or standing positions, the phalangin always finds at its end a portion of the push piece.
• the handle has a substantially flat bearing zone intended to receive the phalanx during the control.
• the support zone which is flat, or substantially adapted to the morphology of the phalanx makes it possible to reduce the bearing pressure. This facilitates the possible sliding of the phalanx along this support zone during the eventual triggering path of the trigger.
• the trigger is movable between a rest position and an extreme actuation position.
• the natural thumb closure on the other fingers is used to make the order.
• the thumb phalanx rotates around its natural articulation and remains whatever the control phase of the trigger, permanently in support with the handle unlike conventional trigger control systems.
• This feature of positioning the phalanx during the control phase is essential because it is it that allows the constant gripping by its opposition to other fingers throughout the order.
• This closing of the thumb generates a displacement of the phalangin and / or the phalanx towards the index while always having the phalanx of the thumb in permanent support with the handle.
• the trigger is movable about an axis of rotation so that the thrust end of the trigger describes a circular arc coincident with the arc described by the phalangin when ordering.
• the trigger is movable about an axis of rotation inclined relative to the normal to the main reference plane by an angle (A) less than 30 degrees.
• the device comprises a trigger stop such that the extreme position of actuation is limited by the complete closing of the fist and the pressing of the trigger on the index finger.
• the trigger can be movable so that in the rest position, its end is placed in abutment against the phalangin of the thumb in extension, and whose displacement, under the effect of the pressure exerted by the thumb, allows make a command whose limit will be defined by the complete closing of the fist and the trigger on the index finger.
• the device comprises a return system allowing the automatic return of the trigger in its rest position when it is no longer requested.
• the trigger is fixed relative to the handle.
• one or more sensors can provide information characteristic of the force applied by the thumb on the trigger used to generate the command.
• a trigger holder can position the trigger relative to the handle.
• the trigger support is integrated in the handle.
• a trigger holder or trigger has one or more adjustment systems for ergonomically positioning the trigger relative to the thumb.
• the thrust part of the trigger has a shape and / or a non-slip coating.
• the push piece can allow a good adhesion generating a reliable contact of the phalangin on the end of the trigger in order to avoid any evasion of it.
• the handle is provided with an external hand stop and / or an internal hand stop.
• the device may comprise at least one control set generator taken from a mechanical connection piece, a sensor of the trigger position, of analog or digital type, or a sensor of the force exerted on the trigger.
• analog or digital type the slave system can be controlled purely mechanically and / or with one or more information, analog or digital, the position of the trigger or the force applied thereto.
• the trigger can mechanically control the slave system via a connecting piece which is for example adjustable on the trigger.
• the invention also relates to a machine equipped with a manual control device, wherein the handle allows the grip of the machine by a user, the handle being positioned relative to the user so that the trigger end of the trigger is located at least partly in front of the handle.
• the invention also relates to the use of a manual control device for gripping a machine and simultaneously controlling one of the servo-control systems of the machine, said grasping of the machine being done with a tightening of all fingers of the hand on the handle while operating the control with the thumb of the same hand.
• the slave system is controlled mechanically, for example via an adjustable connecting piece on the trigger.
• the slave system is controlled by one or more information, analog or digital, the position of the trigger or the force applied to it.
• the invention also relates to a thumb trigger control device, coupled to a handle for gripping a machine, and to sensitively and non-fatiguingly controlling a control of one of the slave systems of that machine. , while ensuring optimal grip thanks to the permanent and natural contact of all the fingers on the handle.
• the device comprises a handle, equipped with a trigger whose one end, positioned in front of the handle and the inner face of the phalangin of the thumb, is subjected to a pressure thereof in order to generate a command for controlling the slave system, via a mechanical connection and / or one or more digital or analog information, while allowing a displacement in a reference plane parallel to the axis of the handle, the phalangin and the phalanx of the thumb which guarantees by its permanent support along handle an optimal grip of it.
• the device may have a reference plane parallel to the axis of the handle in which the phalanx can be moved in support along the handle and the phalangin of the thumb.
• FIG. 1 shows in perspective a first embodiment of the device in the rest position
• Figure 2 is a front view of the first embodiment in the rest position
• FIG. 3 is a cross-section along the plane
• FIG. 4 is a bottom view of the first embodiment in the rest position
• Figure 5 is a top view of the first embodiment in the actuating position, in maximum travel
• Figure 6 shows in perspective a variant of the first embodiment with a rotation sensor
• Figure 7 shows in perspective a variant of the first embodiment with a position sensor
• FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a second embodiment with an axis of rotation in the rest position substantially parallel to the reference plane
• Figure 9 is a front view of the second embodiment in the rest position
• FIG. 10 is a cross-section of the second embodiment
• Figure 1 1 shows in perspective a third embodiment with a translation system of the device in the maximum position of movement
• Figure 12 shows in perspective a fourth embodiment with trigger integrated in the handle of the device in the maximum position of movement
• Figure 13 shows a front view of a fifth embodiment with a fixed trigger and integrated with the handle of the device
• Figure 14 is a bottom view of a sixth embodiment with trigger provided with an elongate push end
• Fig. 15 is a rear view of the sixth embodiment.
• the first embodiment of the device comprises a handle 10, gripped by a hand 1 and gripped by the index 6, the middle finger 7, the ring finger 8 and the little finger 9.
• the thumb 2 is placed under the handle 10, its phalanx 3 resting on it, thus ensuring its grip.
• the handle 10 is fixed on a handle support 1 1.
• the handle support 1 1 may be a handlebar or a steering wheel.
• a trigger support 12 is fixed on the handle support January 1 by two screws 29.
• a trigger 13 is movable on the trigger support 12 by articulating around a virtual axis 16 close to the thumb joint 5
• This trigger 13 is provided with fasteners 21 on one of which is fixed a connecting piece 20.
• a cable 24, for controlling a slave system, is fixed to this connecting piece 20 and slides in a sheath 22, fixed on the trigger support 12 by means of a sheath stop 23.
• the end 14 of the trigger 13 is provided with a thrust piece 25 and is placed, in the rest position, in front of the inner face of the phalangin 4 thumb 2 which maintains its phalanx 3 presses on the handle 10.
• the thumb 2 is closed on the index finger 6 while keeping the phalanx 3 resting on the handle 10 as well as the phalangin 4 resting on the thrust piece 25.
• the displacement of the phalanx 3 and the phalangin 4 is carried out in a reference plane 18.
• the pressure phalangin 4 on the pusher 25 causes a rotation of the trigger 13 about a virtual axis 16.
• a clearance 19 of the trigger 13, is limited by a rest stop 40 and an end stop 41. It causes a displacement of the connecting piece 20 which causes a sliding of the cable 24 in the sheath 22 for controlling a slave system.
• the trigger 13 is fixed to the trigger support 12 which can also be fixed on the handle 10.
• the trigger support 12 can also be integrated in the handle 10.
• the trigger support makes it possible to fix the trigger 13 with respect to the handle 10. It can also allow a lateral and rotational positioning with respect to the handle 10 in order to adapt the position of the end 14 of trigger.
• the trigger is articulated on the support 12 by means of a physical axis or a virtual axis 16.
• the virtual axis 16 can be achieved by the relative rotation of a circular shape of the trigger 13 relative to another circular shape of the support trigger 12.
• Screws 29 which provide a degree of freedom to the trigger support can be used for this purpose.
• the device may also include additional adjustment systems. These systems can be integrated in the handle 10, the handle support 12 or the trigger 13. It is also possible to provide an exchangeable trigger 13 to adapt to the user.
• the trigger 13 can be movable relative to the handle 10 in several ways, either by being articulated about an axis 16, or by translating in one direction, or by combining these two movements.
• a connecting piece 20 which makes it possible to transmit the movement of the trigger 13 to the slave system.
• This connecting piece 20 for example, can be connected to a cable, a bar or a rod that will drive the slave system.
• a hydraulic or pneumatic system can also be used to control the slave system.
• the trigger is connected, via the connecting piece 20, to a piston or other device for transforming the force exerted on the trigger 13 into a pressure and to drive the slave system.
• a set of fasteners 42 may allow adjustment of the connecting piece 20 along the trigger 13 to create a reduction, effort and / or movement between the trigger and the slave system.
• the thumb in the man is the finger of the hand that allows the grip. He is the finger that makes the hand prehensile by its opposition to the other four fingers. This transforms the hand into a clamp, a support or a moving claw.
• the thumb allows a correct grip of a handle whose function is to allow optimal grasping an object.
• the simple grip is not always enough, it must also add a notion of effort because a handle can be used to firmly hold a device or to stay on a vehicle. We then speak rather of grabbing than of simple gripping. Indeed a simple grip does not require the presence of all the fingers on the handle, or muscle contractions consequent. The presence of the thumb in contact on the handle allows a firm grip.
• the use of the thumb 2 to carry out the command not only allows an excellent sensory control and very responsive, but also as it is the most robust finger, it can often produce enough work to mechanically control a slave system. Nevertheless the work that the thumb 2 can provide is limited and depends on the morphology of the user. In the case where the work provided by the thumb 2 to control the slave system is not sufficient or tiring over time, it is possible to use a real time system that provides part or all of the work in order to drive correctly. the slave system. In the case of a real-time system providing some of the work, it is necessary to keep the mechanical linkage between the trigger device and the slave system. In the case where the real-time system provides all the work, it is no longer necessary to keep this mechanical connection between the trigger 13 and the slave system. However, this connection can be retained to either allow a backup solution in case of failure of the real-time system, or to allow the perception of the reaction of the controlled servo system.
• the thrust piece 25 allows a good contact between the end of the trigger 13 and the thumb 2.
• the thrust piece 25 has a shape or a coating giving good adhesion between the thumb 2 and the trigger end 13 whatever the conditions of use.
• the trigger 13 and / or its end may also be covered with a non-slip material. This is particularly useful in the rain, in the mud, in the water for jet skis or in the case sweating of the hand.
• the trigger can have an ergonomic shape, which can be possibly relatively complex, in order to adapt better to the user.
• a trigger 13 deformable under the effect of a shock so as not to harm the user's fingers during a possible impact with an external element.
• the hand has a palm resting on the handle.
• a metacarpal plane 43 is defined by the metacarps of the hand 1. It is here slightly inclined upwards.
• the phalanx / phalangeal reference plane 18 is slightly inclined downwards.
• the pincer effect between the phalanx 3 and the four fingers 6, 7, 8, 9 takes place in the natural extension of the forearm. In the case where the handle is used in a jet ski, this main natural position may correspond to a sitting position of the pilot.
• the handle 10 may comprise palm and finger-shaped shapes in this main position, to facilitate the repositioning of the hand in the same main grip position.
• the phalanx / phalangeal plane 18 corresponds to a main reference plane of the handle 10.
• the axis 16 of rotation of the trigger 13 has an angle A with respect to a normal 45 to the main reference plane 18.
• This angle A is less than 50 °, and preferably less than 25 °. It appears in projection Ax and Ay in Figures 2 and 3.
• the thumb 2 bears on the handle 10 by its lateral side 44.
• the fact that the angle A is relatively small, causes the lateral side 44 to undergo pressure. grip is very little directed towards the inner face of the phalanx 3.
• the phalanx / phalangeal reference plane 18 may be parallel to the axis 15 of the handle 10. However, an angle B between the axis 15 and the plane of reference 18 makes it possible to increase the force available for the grip.
• the phalanx 3 slides along a bearing surface 46 of the handle 10.
• the bearing surface 46 is substantially parallel to the axis 15 of the handle 10. Due to the angle B, the closure of the thumb 2 is accompanied by a slight spacing of the phalanx / metacarpal joint of the thumb 2. This contributes to increase the gripping force during the actuation of the trigger 13.
• the reference plane 18 moves slightly during the closure of the thumb 2, so that the position of the inner face of the phalangin 4 is a compound path close enough to a plane parallel to the axis 15 of the handle 10.
• the axis of rotation 16 of the trigger 13 can pass through the natural articulation of the thumb.
• the positioning of the axis 16 allows the end 14 of the trigger 13 to be permanently in contact with the inner face of the phalangin 4 during the control phase.
• the axis 16 can be positioned closer to the natural axis of rotation of the thumb so that the end of the trigger 13 describes a circular arc coincides with the arc described by the phalangin 4 when ordering.
• the end 14 of the trigger 13, the phalangin 4 and the phalanx 3 of the thumb 2 evolve in the same plane 18.
• the orientation of the axis of rotation 16 of the trigger 13 allows the point of contact of the trigger 13 with the phalangin 4, and the thumb 2 to evolve in the reference plane 18.
• the inclination A of the axis of rotation 16 makes it possible to adapt the movement of the trigger 13 to the preferences of the user.
• the command is generated by closing the thumb on the other fingers while maintaining the phalanx 3 of the thumb 2 in support with the handle 10. By closing, the thumb moves the phalanx 3 which slides under the handle 10.
• the phalangin 4 pushes the end 25 of the trigger 13. It is this movement of the trigger 13 which is used as control of the slave system.
• the device has not only the advantage of allowing a good grip of the handle while allowing to control sensitively and not fatiguing a command; but also that of allowing, during the intensification of the command, the optimization and the increase of the grip. Indeed, the more you operate the command, the more the thumb can close up to a limit defined by the complete closing of the fist that corresponds to the grip ideal of the handle.
• This feature of the device is very advantageous because it differentiates it from most known devices control handle that generate a decrease in the grip during the intensification of the command. For example, if the device is used as an accelerator on a motorcycle, the more you accelerate, so the faster you go and the more you optimize the grip of the handle.
• the device is used as a brake on a motorcycle or a mountain bike, the more one brakes, therefore the more one decelerates, the more the effort in the arms linked to the deceleration increases and the more one optimizes the grip of the handle.
• This characteristic allows a consequent improvement of safety and performance unlike known devices.
• the device also has an advantage in terms of safety because it does not block or pinch any fingers during gripping and control. In an emergency situation you can easily and quickly release the handle without fear that a finger remains stuck by the command.
• a rotational position sensor 26 is placed on the virtual axis of rotation 16. It is fixed on the trigger support 12 and provides information on the position of the trigger 13 to a system real time in order to control a slave system.
• the position sensor 26 may be of several types and technologies. It may be an example and non-exhaustive of a rotation sensor 26 ( Figure 6) of the trigger 13 or a linear displacement sensor 37 ( Figure 7). These sensors can be usual position sensors, sensors with or without contact. One or more sensors may be used, which may be position sensors of the end 14 of the trigger 13 or force sensors on this end 14. This or these sensors provide one or more information to the real time system which detects them. uses to generate the setpoint. This setpoint can be limited to the position of the trigger but can also be a complex combination of several information from various sensors or systems not necessarily mounted on the trigger.
• this instruction may not be limited to this position alone. It can be a combination of this position, another idle speed setpoint, a temperature correction etc.
• the real time system performs, thanks to this instruction, the servo in position of an electric actuator on which is fixed the gas shutter or a hydraulic valve, a brake system, a clutch system or an electric motor.
• This command can also be used in a non-linear way as to make a change of reports for example.
• a trigger 50 is fixed on the trigger support 12 and is rotatable about an axis 51.
• the axis of rotation 51 is closer to the normal 45 to the reference plane 18 as in the first embodiment, but substantially parallel thereto.
• a return system 28 allows the return of the trigger 13 in the rest position.
• the return means 28 comprises a spring resting on a protrusion 52 at a point distant from the axis of rotation 51.
• a connecting piece 53 connects the protrusion 52 to a piston 30 which will generate, during a deflection 19, a pressure to control the slave system.
• the reference plane phalanx / phalangin 18 is here substantially parallel to the axis 15 of the handle.
• Another type of return system may also be used, such as for example a hydraulic or pneumatic system which does not necessarily use a spring to allow this return of the trigger in the rest position.
• a slave system incorporating a return system and having a mechanical connection between the trigger and the slave system, it may be possible to avoid this trigger return system and use only that of the slave system.
• the device incorporates a return system. This helps to manage the effort by the thumb. The system creates a reaction force to that of the thumb that allows better dosing control.
• a linear position sensor is placed between the trigger 13 and the trigger holder 12 to which it is attached and provides information on the position of the trigger 13 to a real time system for driving a slave system.
• a trigger 60 moves in translation relative to the trigger support 12 thanks to two guides 35.
• the end 14 of the trigger moves parallel to the axis 15 of the trigger. handle 10.
• a return spring 61 is fixed between the trigger 60 and the trigger support 12.
• a linear position sensor 62 without contact is fixed on the trigger support 12 and informs a real-time system on the position of the trigger 13 so that it drives the slave system.
• the movement of the trigger may very well be a combination of a rotation about an axis and a translation, described above, in order to adapt better to the preferences of the user.
• the fourth embodiment illustrated in Figure 12 differs from the first embodiment in that it comprises a handle 70 more elaborate.
• the handle 70 incorporates the trigger support 12.
• a trigger 71 is hinged about the axis 16.
• the handle 70 is also provided with an external hand stop 31 as well as an internal hand stop 32 to allow the longitudinal positioning of the hand.
• the trigger 13 is fixed with respect to a handle 80.
• a force sensor 81 provided with a thrust piece 25, is placed on the trigger end 14.
• Adjustment systems 36 are integrated in the trigger support 12 to allow the ergonomic positioning of the trigger end 14, and therefore the thrust piece 25, relative to the phalangin 4.
• the phalangin 4 applies pressure to the workpiece thrust 25 which generates a force on the force sensor 27, while maintaining the phalanx 3 rests on the handle 10. It is always the phalanx 3 and phalangin 4 which evolve in the reference plane 18.
• the sensor The effort 27 will transmit the effort information to a real time system so that it drives the slave system.
• the handle 80 also includes presetting means 82.
• Said presetting means 82 comprise an inner hand stop 31 and / or an external hand stop 32.
• the shape of the hand stops 31, 32 is designed to allow angular positioning. of the hand around the axis 15 of the handle 80. The user can easily find the optimal hand position during each use.
• the prepositioning means 82 define a main grip position.
• the angular position of the hand 1 allows inter alia the proper positioning of the phalangin on the end of the trigger in its rest position.
• the lateral position of the hand 1 allows among other things the correct positioning of the phalangin on the end of the trigger in its rest position.
• the trigger no longer mechanically controls the slave system
• the trigger is fixed, then we can use the effort and / or one or more information on the force exerted on the end of the trigger by the thumb to generate the command.
• This effort and / or one or more information on this effort are transmitted to a sensor that provides this or these information to the real-time system that use them to generate the setpoint and thus control the slave system.
• a trigger similar to the trigger 71 is fixedly mounted on the handle 70, and equipped with a strain gauge measuring the deformation of the trigger.
• the shape of the trigger 80 can be modified so that it is always possible to actuate it even if the angle of the hand on the handle is different from the optimal position angle.
• the prepositioning means 82 of the hand 1 have several gripping positions.
• the sixth embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 14 and 15 comprises a handle 90 and a trigger 91 hinged about an axis of rotation 92 oriented similarly to the axis 16 of the first embodiment.
• the trigger 91 comprises a thrust piece 93 of elongated shape and extending around the axis 15 of the handle 90.
• the thrust piece 93 has a side blank 94 extending radially with respect to the axis 15, and a guide blank 95 making it possible to hold the end of the phalangin in abutment on the side blank 94.
• the thrust piece 93 has a front end 96 intended to be pushed by the phalangin 4 when the hand 1 is in a main position of grip.
• the thrust piece 93 also has a rear end 97 allowing the phalangin 4 to press the trigger 90 when the hand 1 is in a position of extreme grip illustrated in Figure 15.
• This gripping position may correspond for example to a standing position of a jet-ski pilot. In this position of extreme grip, the phalanx 3 of the thumb 2 remains in contact with the handle 90.
• the handle 90 also has a main bearing surface 98 for receiving the phalanx 3 of the thumb 2 when the hand 1 is in the main grip position.
• the trigger can be composed of several parts.
• the trigger can be placed under the handle and come into contact with the phalangin of the thumb underneath.
• a spline system may allow the positioning of the handle on the handle support.
• the handle may have a section of any shape and not constant along its axis.
• a hand protection can be integrated in the handle.
• the device according to the invention is more particularly intended for machines equipped with controls coupled to handles requiring a large grip, such as vehicles equipped with handles (motorcycles, boats, quads, motorcycles, jet skis or ATVs ...) or portable tools (brushcutter, drill, jackhammer ”).

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• Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
• Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
• Mechanical Control Devices (AREA)
• Prostheses (AREA)
• Food-Manufacturing Devices (AREA)
• Finger-Pressure Massage (AREA)
• Massaging Devices (AREA)

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• 2006
  • 2006-10-19 FR FR0609161A patent/FR2907561A1/fr active Pending
• 2007
  • 2007-10-17 WO PCT/FR2007/052194 patent/WO2008047056A2/fr not_active Ceased
  • 2007-10-17 US US12/446,247 patent/US8256323B2/en active Active
  • 2007-10-17 AT AT07858617T patent/ATE461858T1/de not_active IP Right Cessation
  • 2007-10-17 ES ES07858617T patent/ES2343218T3/es active Active
  • 2007-10-17 DE DE602007005505T patent/DE602007005505D1/de active Active
  • 2007-10-17 JP JP2009532873A patent/JP5450074B2/ja not_active Expired - Fee Related
  • 2007-10-17 CA CA2665910A patent/CA2665910C/fr active Active
  • 2007-10-17 EP EP07858617A patent/EP2079630B1/fr active Active
• 2012
  • 2012-07-10 US US13/545,537 patent/US20120272783A1/en not_active Abandoned

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