Optimal Operator Flexibility Through Remote Controls with Complete Machine Control
Customers are always looking for more. More functionality. More features. More options. Heavy machinery manufacturers can do this in any number of ways, but one option that gives obvious value to their operators is the ability to control your machine from several physical locations. Whether it’s in the cab of the machine, standing near the application area, or kept at a safe distance while it’s operating. However, maintaining full functionality across multiple controls, likely of different sizes, can be a daunting task. It requires a certain level of creativity in your control design, the implantation of added safety features, and consistent branding at each level.
Mirroring Functionality Between Stationary Consoles & Wireless Remote Controls
The biggest challenge when attempting to replicate all the same functionality of a large console onto a portable, wireless remote control is obviously size. Taking the functionality of a nearly 4-foot-long console and fitting it onto a single belly pack requires creativity both in component placement, as well as programming. Integrating a color display with pushbuttons along the sides into the remote control allows those pages to mirror what is accessible through the console display. There are also similar fingertip controls and 3-axis joysticks on both the belly pack and the console. Still, even with those mirrored controls, there is simply not enough real estate to fit them all. In this instance, we were able to support additional functionality on the remote control by creating two separate function modes. Flipping a toggle switch allows the operator to shift from controlling the boom and all the truck’s winches, to utilizing the outriggers and either getting the truck ready to start or finish a job.
Maintaining Safety While Increasing Operator Flexibility
Increased operator flexibility also necessitates added safety precautions to ward against any operator confusion or simple human error. With the ability to move around and control the truck’s boom anywhere, for example, load system status must be very noticeable to the operator somewhere on the remote control. To accomplish this, an LED light bar was implemented across the top of the display to alert the operator when the boom is approaching or at capacity. Additionally, to avoid inadvertently shifting between function modes, a safety function was added to the toggle switch so a simple bump of the hand won’t interrupt the machine at work and lead to potential accidents.
Keeping Consistent Branding Throughout Controls & Across Product Lines
With the additional controls, it’s beneficial for OEMs to not only maintain as much functionality as possible, but to keep consistent branding at every level. As previously stated, not only do the displays and individual components on both the remote control and side consoles provide the same machine functions, but all maintain the same graphics, colors, and overall tone that is consistent with OEM branding. Your customers have come to expect a certain level of performance with your equipment and by maintaining proper branding across controls within a machine, and also across product lines, you’re keeping that quality top of mind.
