Four-axis mechanical controller
US12181907B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 7, 2022 |
| Grant date | Dec 31, 2024 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 7, 2043 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG05G2009/04781
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A mechanical controller provides four-axis control of a vehicle's position and movement. For example, the controller provides control of a vehicle's operations through a lateral axis, longitudinal axis, directional axis, and a grip axis (e.g., operating a thumbwheel of the mechanical controller that provides additional control inputs to the vehicle). The mechanical controller can provide independent force feel mechanisms in each of the lateral, longitudinal, and directional axes of movement. Additionally, the mechanical controller may provide a redundant force feel mechanism (e.g., for increased safety). For example, redundant springs and dampers may be incorporated in each axis's force feel mechanism. The mechanical controller may include a plunger and spring assembly to provide a force feel mechanism in the lateral and longitudinal axes. In addition to this spring force, surfaces of a contact region between the plunger and a plunger actuating plate may be shaped to produce force feel characteristics.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.