Connection system and connection device

By introducing a detachable connection system into the driving simulator, the problem of difficult replacement caused by the customization of the driving simulator cockpit system was solved, enabling rapid replacement and data continuity, and improving the accuracy and efficiency of testing.

CN121617306APending Publication Date: 2026-03-06CHINA INTELLIGENT & CONNECTED VEHICLES (BEIJING) RES INST CO LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202511958256.8
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Applications(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2025-12-23
Publication Date
2026-03-06

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing driving simulator cockpit systems are highly customized and cannot be quickly replaced, failing to meet the actual needs of different testing and development projects.

Method used

A connection system is provided, including a mounting bracket, a cockpit device, and a connecting device, which enables data exchange between a driving simulator and the cockpit device through a detachable connection, supports quick replacement of the cockpit device, and maintains continuous data communication.

Benefits of technology

It enables rapid switching and data exchange between the driving simulator and the cockpit device, improving the accuracy and efficiency of testing and meeting the needs of different test development projects.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The embodiment of the invention provides a connecting system and connecting equipment, and the system comprises a mounting frame which is fixedly connected with a driving simulator; the cabin device is detachably connected with the mounting frame; one side of the connecting device is detachably connected with the cabin device, the other side of the connecting device is fixedly connected with the driving simulator, and the connecting device is used for data transmission between the driving simulator and the cabin device. Through the device, the actual requirements of the driving simulator on different test development projects can be met.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of vehicle technology, and particularly relates to a connection system and connection device. Background Technology

[0002] In the current automotive industry, driving simulators are increasingly widely used. These car driving simulators, which integrate human-vehicle-environment technology, are not only used for driver training but also for the research and testing of systems such as intelligent chassis, intelligent cockpits, and intelligent driving systems. Driving simulators mainly consist of mechanical, hardware, and software components. The mechanical components include a motion platform and a cockpit. The motion platform simulates the dynamic behaviors of a vehicle, such as acceleration, deceleration, and turning, providing the driver with realistic physical feedback. The cockpit includes devices such as the instrument panel, steering wheel, seat, and pedals, simulating the interior environment of a vehicle. Through the coordinated efforts of the mechanical, hardware, and software components, driving simulators have become an important tool in the research and testing of intelligent cockpits.

[0003] In actual testing, significant differences in cockpit design philosophies exist between different car brands, or even different sizes of the same brand. Therefore, when developing and testing intelligent cockpit systems, it's necessary to replace the cockpit portion of the driving simulator to maximize the realism of the test and improve accuracy. Currently, most driving simulator manufacturers typically assume that their cockpit systems are not replaceable; even if they are, extensive development and adaptation are required, which is time-consuming and labor-intensive. In other words, existing driving simulator cockpit systems are highly customized, lacking a reasonable and rapid replacement solution, and thus failing to meet the actual needs of different testing and development projects. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a connection system to address the problem that existing driving simulators cannot meet the actual needs of different test and development projects.

[0005] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a connection system, the system comprising: Mounting bracket, which is fixedly connected to the driving simulator; A cockpit assembly, wherein the cockpit assembly is detachably connected to the mounting bracket; A connecting device, one side of which is detachably connected to the cockpit device and the other side is fixedly connected to the driving simulator, is used for data transmission between the driving simulator and the cockpit device.

[0006] In the technical solution of this application embodiment, the cockpit device, which is detachably connected to the mounting bracket, allows for separation of the cockpit device from the mounting bracket, avoiding the problem of the cockpit system in the driving simulator being non-replaceable. Simultaneously, the connection device linking the driving simulator and the cockpit device enables data exchange between them, ensuring connectivity between the driving simulator and the cockpit device even after replacement, thus meeting the needs of different test and development projects.

[0007] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the cockpit device includes: An adapter frame, which is mounted on the mounting frame and used to support the controller integration assembly; A housing is disposed on the adapter frame, and the outer side of the housing has a receiving groove into which the controller integration assembly extends.

[0008] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the adapter frame includes a frame body and a support plate, the two sides of the frame body being detachably connected to the mounting frame and the cover, respectively, and the support plate being disposed on the frame body and supported on the lower side of the controller integration assembly.

[0009] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, a groove is provided on the support plate, and a slide rail is formed at the bottom of the controller. The slide rail is detachably disposed in the groove and slides in cooperation with the groove.

[0010] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the frame body is provided with a connecting clamp, which is detachably connected to the mounting frame by fasteners.

[0011] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the frame body includes a plurality of adapter rods arranged in a ring at intervals, and each adapter rod is provided with a connecting clamp, which is detachably connected to the mounting frame by fasteners.

[0012] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the support plate is connected to any one of the plurality of adapter rods.

[0013] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the controller integration component includes a media controller, a vehicle controller, a safety system controller, an air conditioning system controller, and a reserved interface.

[0014] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a connection system, as well as an application system and a communication system connected to the connection system; The application system is used to control the operation of the connection system and to provide the operating environment for the connection system; The communication system is used to control data communication in the connection system.

[0015] In one possible implementation of the second aspect, the application system includes a cockpit control application module, a driving environment simulation application module, and an autonomous driving assistance module; The cockpit control application module is used to coordinate and control the operation of the cockpit device. The driving environment simulation application module is used to simulate the operating scenarios of the connection system; The autonomous driving assistance module is used to provide autonomous driving functions for the connected system.

[0016] The above description is only an overview of the technical solution of this application. In order to better understand the technical means of this application and to implement it in accordance with the contents of the specification, and to make the above and other objects, features and advantages of this application more obvious and understandable, the following are specific embodiments of this application. Attached Figure Description

[0017] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the embodiments of this application will be briefly introduced below. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0018] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the connection system provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 2 This is an exploded schematic diagram of the cockpit device provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the frame structure of the connection device provided in the embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0019] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0020] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used in this application have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application pertains; the terminology used in the description of this application is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the application; the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, in the description, claims, and accompanying drawings of this application are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. The terms "first," "second," etc., in the description, claims, or accompanying drawings of this application are used to distinguish different objects, not to describe a specific order or hierarchy.

[0021] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "attachment" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal communication between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0022] In the current automotive industry, driving simulators are increasingly widely used. These car driving simulators, which integrate human-vehicle-environment technology, are not only used for driver training but also for the research and testing of systems such as intelligent chassis, intelligent cockpits, and intelligent driving systems. Driving simulators mainly consist of mechanical, hardware, and software components. The mechanical components include a motion platform and a cockpit. The motion platform simulates the dynamic behaviors of a vehicle, such as acceleration, deceleration, and turning, providing the driver with realistic physical feedback. The cockpit includes devices such as the instrument panel, steering wheel, seat, and pedals, simulating the interior environment of a vehicle. Through the coordinated efforts of the mechanical, hardware, and software components, driving simulators have become an important tool in the research and testing of intelligent cockpits.

[0023] In actual testing, significant differences in cockpit design philosophies exist between different car brands, or even different sizes of the same brand. Therefore, when developing and testing intelligent cockpit systems, it's necessary to replace the cockpit portion of the driving simulator to maximize the realism of the test and improve accuracy. Currently, most driving simulator manufacturers typically assume that their cockpit systems are not replaceable; even if they are, extensive development and adaptation are required, which is time-consuming and labor-intensive. In other words, existing driving simulator cockpit systems are highly customized, lacking a reasonable and rapid replacement solution, and thus failing to meet the actual needs of different testing and development projects.

[0024] To address the aforementioned technical problems, this application provides a connection system, which will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0025] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a connection system according to an embodiment of this application. Figure 1 As shown, the connection system includes a mounting frame 1, a cockpit device 2, and a connection device (not shown).

[0026] Specifically, mounting bracket 1 is fixedly connected to the driving simulator, and the connection method can be welding. The cockpit device 2 is detachably connected to mounting bracket 1, allowing it to be separated from the driving simulator. The driving simulator is used to simulate the driving process of the vehicle. Mounting bracket 1 can also simulate the vehicle's dynamic behaviors such as acceleration, deceleration, and turning through the driving simulator, providing the driver with realistic physical feedback. Cockpit device 2 is used to simulate the vehicle's internal environment.

[0027] To ensure data interaction between the driving simulator and the cockpit device 2, a connecting device (not shown) is also provided on the driving simulator. The other end of the connecting device (not shown) is detachably connected to the cockpit device 2, so that data communication with the driving simulator can be maintained when different cockpit devices 2 are replaced, thereby realizing the function of the driving simulator.

[0028] In the technical solution of this application embodiment, the cockpit device 2 can be separated from the mounting frame 1 by the detachable connection between the mounting frame 1 and the cockpit device 2, avoiding the problem that the cockpit system in the driving simulator cannot be replaced. At the same time, through the connection device (not shown) connecting the driving simulator and the cockpit device 2, data information exchange between the driving simulator and the cockpit device 2 can be realized. After replacing the cockpit device 2, the connection and data interaction between the driving simulator and the new cockpit device 2 are guaranteed, thereby utilizing different cockpit devices 2 to meet the needs of different test and development projects.

[0029] Figure 2 This is an exploded view of the cockpit unit 2, which connects to the system. Figure 2 As shown, the cockpit device 2 includes a transfer frame 222 and a housing 21.

[0030] Specifically, the adapter 222 is mounted on the mounting frame 1 and is used to support the controller integration component 3. The controller integration component 3 refers to the device that controls the internal hardware in the cockpit device 2, including the media controller, vehicle controller, safety system controller, air conditioning system controller, etc.

[0031] The housing 21 is mounted on the adapter frame 222, and a receiving groove is formed on the outer side of the housing 21 for the controller integration assembly 3 to extend into. An internal cavity is formed inside the housing 21 for installing the internal hardware of the cockpit device 2, including hardware such as audio equipment, steering wheel, brake pedal, accelerator pedal, airbags, seat belts, and air conditioning system. The receiving groove formed on the outer side of the housing 21 is used to house the controller integration assembly 3.

[0032] In one embodiment of this application, the adapter frame 222 includes a frame body 22 and a support plate 222. The two sides of the frame body 22 are detachably connected to the mounting frame 1 and the cover 21, respectively. The support plate 222 is disposed on the frame body 22 and supports the lower side of the integrated assembly 3 with the controller.

[0033] Specifically, one side of the frame body 22 is detachably connected to the housing 21, or it can be fixedly connected to the housing 21 by welding. The other side is detachably connected to the mounting frame 1, allowing the cockpit device 2 to be disassembled from the mounting frame 1. A support plate 222 is provided at the side end of the frame body 22 to support the controller integration assembly 3.

[0034] In one embodiment of this application, the frame body 22 is provided with a connecting clamp 22111, which is detachably connected to the mounting frame 1 by fasteners.

[0035] Specifically, there can be four connecting clamps 22111, which are respectively set on the side of the frame body 22. In addition to the connecting clamps 22111 and the fasteners, other types of quick connection devices (not shown), such as suction cups and magnetic suction, can be used to achieve quick fixing and disassembly between the frame body 22 and the mounting bracket 1, thereby achieving quick fixing and disassembly between the cockpit and the driving simulator.

[0036] In one embodiment of this application, the frame body 22 includes a plurality of adapter rods 2211, which are arranged in a ring at intervals. Each adapter rod 2211 is provided with a connecting clamp 22111, which is detachably connected to the mounting frame 1 by fasteners.

[0037] Specifically, there can be four adapter rods 2211 arranged in a circular pattern, with each adapter rod 2211 equipped with a connecting clamp 22111 to achieve a stable connection between the mounting frame 1 and the cockpit device 2. Furthermore, the number of adapter rods 2211 can be more than four or less; this embodiment does not impose any limitations.

[0038] In one embodiment of this application, the support plate 222 is connected to any one of the plurality of adapter rods 2211. This connection may be a welded connection.

[0039] In one embodiment of this application, the connection device (not shown) includes a connection harness and a first connector and a second connector respectively connected to the connection harness. The first connector is connected to the driving simulator, and the second connector is connected to the controller integration component 3.

[0040] Specifically, the connecting device (not shown) is used to connect the driving simulator and the cockpit device 2 to enable data interaction between the two. The two ends of the connecting harness are connected to a first connector and a second connector, respectively. The first connector is fixedly connected to the driving simulator. The second connector is electrically connected to the control integration component, providing power to the controller integration component 3 and enabling data interaction between the controller integration component 3 and the driving simulator.

[0041] The pre-integrated wiring harness enables quick plug-and-play operation, minimizing physical modifications to cockpit unit 2 while ensuring high stability and reliability of data transmission. This connection device (not shown) supports efficient transmission of control signals, sensor signals, communication signals, video signals, audio signals, powertrain signals, and diagnostic signals, ensuring rapid integration of all necessary electrical interfaces when replacing cockpit unit 2.

[0042] In one embodiment of this application, the controller integration component 3 includes a media controller, a vehicle controller, a safety system controller, an air conditioning system controller, and a reserved interface.

[0043] Specifically, the media controller is used to control the in-vehicle entertainment system: The media controller can output media data (such as audio and video files) and, through a connection device (not shown), convert it to a driving simulator controller so that the voice and video information of the driver driving on the dynamic driving simulator can be read in the control room, so as to carry out intelligent cockpit research and development and test related content.

[0044] Vehicle data simulated by the driving simulator solver and controller, such as HMI interface (instrument panel, HUD, main central control screen, secondary central control screen, passenger screen), vehicle audio system, etc., can be transmitted to the media controller, thereby transmitting it to the cabin so that the playback content or displayed information can be adjusted according to the simulated driving scenario.

[0045] The vehicle controller is used to manage vehicle motion information. The vehicle controller can send vehicle status information (such as accelerator pedal opening, brake pedal opening, steering wheel angle, etc.) to the connecting device (not shown), which is then transmitted to the dynamic driving simulator controller so that the solver can solve for the current vehicle motion state and transmit the data back to the dynamic driving simulator to produce corresponding dynamic effects.

[0046] Simulated vehicle data from the driving simulator, such as steering wheel torque, can be transmitted to the vehicle controller via a connection device (not shown) to activate the steering wheel motor for hand force feedback.

[0047] Safety system controller: The safety system controller can send safety warning information (such as seat belt not fastened) to the dynamic driving simulator controller via a connection device (not shown), so that the controller can issue a warning signal and provide corresponding safety prompts in the cockpit.

[0048] Simulated vehicle data from the driving simulator, such as collision detection signals and vehicle tilt angles, can be transmitted to the safety system controller via a connection device (not shown) for testing and adjustment of the simulated safety system. For example, during vehicle deceleration, the brake pedal signal is transmitted to the dynamic driving simulator controller via the connection device (not shown). The solver in the controller reads the pedal information, reduces the vehicle speed, and simultaneously sends a seatbelt tightening signal. This signal is transmitted back to the cabin via the connection device (not shown), and the safety system controller instructs the seatbelt to tighten. At this time, the driver feels the deceleration process, increasing the sensory experience.

[0049] The reserved interface lays the foundation for the diversity of intelligent cockpit development and testing of driving simulators, facilitating the quick replacement of dynamic driving simulator cockpits and enabling the testing and development of more customized functions within the intelligent cockpit.

[0050] Through this communication method, each controller can exchange data with the quick-connect plug, thereby realizing the various functions of the intelligent cockpit system. Furthermore, the vehicle data simulated by the driving simulator can also interact with the controller in the cockpit, enhancing the realism and reliability of the simulation test. It achieves plug-and-play functionality and greatly saves the time required to replace the driving simulator cockpit.

[0051] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the frame structure of a connection device according to an embodiment of this application. Figure 3 As shown, the connection device includes the connection system described in the above embodiments, as well as an application system and a communication system connected to the connection system; The application system controls the operation of the connected system and provides an operating environment for it. Specifically, the application system includes a cockpit control application module, a driving environment simulation application module, and an autonomous driving assistance module. The cockpit control application module is responsible for controlling various functions of the cockpit device 2, enabling intelligent management and operation within the cockpit. The driving environment simulation application module simulates various driving environments and scenarios during driving, providing a realistic simulation environment for testing and development. The autonomous driving assistance module provides testing and development applications for advanced driver assistance functions, such as lane keeping, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. It also enables testing and development applications for autonomous driving functions, including path planning, environmental perception, and automatic control.

[0052] In another embodiment of this application, the driving simulator further includes a driving simulator controller, one end of which is connected to the connection device (not shown), and the other end of which is connected to the driving simulator. The driving simulator is used to parse the data transmitted between the connection system and the driving simulator.

[0053] In another embodiment of this application, the cockpit device 2 is further provided with a display, which can provide users with an intuitive operating platform and real-time monitoring function, simplifying the testing and development process and improving the ease of use and reliability of the connection system.

[0054] Specifically, the driving simulator controller is described in the above embodiment, and will not be repeated here.

[0055] Although this application has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, various modifications can be made thereto and components can be replaced with equivalents without departing from the scope of this application. In particular, the technical features mentioned in the various embodiments can be combined in any manner, provided there is no structural conflict. This application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, but includes all technical solutions falling within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A connection system, characterized in that the system The device comprises: a mounting frame fixedly connected with a driving simulator; a cockpit device detachably connected with the mounting frame; a connecting device detachably connected with one side of the cockpit device and fixedly connected with the other side of the driving simulator, for data transmission between the driving simulator and the cockpit device.

2. The connection system of claim 1, wherein, The cockpit device comprises: an adapter frame arranged on the mounting frame and used for supporting a controller integrated assembly; a cover arranged on the adapter frame, and an accommodation groove formed on the outside of the cover for the controller integrated assembly to extend into.

3. The connection system of claim 2, wherein, The adapter frame comprises a frame body and a support plate, the frame body is detachably connected with the mounting frame and the cover on both sides, and the support plate is arranged on the frame body and supported on the lower side of the controller integrated assembly.

4. The connection system of claim 3, wherein, A sliding groove is formed on the support plate, and a slide rail is formed on the bottom of the controller, the slide rail is detachably arranged in the sliding groove and slidably connected with the sliding groove.

5. The connection system of claim 3, wherein, The frame body is provided with a connecting clamp, and the connecting clamp is detachably connected with the mounting frame through a fastener.

6. The connection system of claim 5, wherein, The frame body comprises a plurality of adapter rods, the plurality of adapter rods are arranged in a ring shape and are spaced apart, each of the adapter rods is provided with a connecting clamp, and the connecting clamp is detachably connected with the mounting frame through a fastener.

7. The connection system of claim 6, wherein, The support plate is connected with any one of the plurality of adapter rods.

8. The connection system of claim 2, wherein, The controller integrated assembly comprises a media controller, a whole vehicle controller, a safety system controller, an air conditioning system controller, and a reserved socket.

9. A connecting device, characterized in that The device comprises a connecting system as claimed in any one of claims 1-7, and an application system and a communication system connected with the connecting system; the application system is used for controlling the operation of the connecting system and providing an operation environment for the connecting system; the communication system is used for controlling data communication in the connecting system.

10. The connection device of claim 9, wherein, The application system comprises a cockpit control application module, a driving environment simulation application module, and an automatic driving assistance module; The cockpit control application module is used for coordinating and controlling the operation of the cockpit device; The driving environment simulation application module is used for simulating the operation scene of the connecting system; The automatic driving assistance module is used for providing an automatic driving function for the connecting system.