Vehicle signaling system having multiple force generators for generating user experience feedback - Patents.com

Abstract

The vehicle includes a frame. A body is coupled to the frame and defines a passenger compartment within the body. The body has a plurality of interior sensors and a plurality of exterior sensors. A plurality of seating positions are within the passenger compartment. Each seating position has a plurality of occupant touch points. A plurality of force generators are positioned proximate to the occupant touch points. A controller is in communication with the plurality of interior sensors, the plurality of exterior sensors, and the plurality of force generators. The controller operates the plurality of force generators in response to sensed feedback from at least one of the plurality of interior sensors and the plurality of exterior sensors.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates generally to vehicles, and more particularly to a system for providing a signal in the form of a tactile signal, an auditory signal, or both, to one or more occupants of the vehicle that utilizes multiple force generators to provide a signal having a three-dimensional component that can be used to associate the signal with a specific portion of the vehicle. [Background technology]

[0002] Various vehicles include warning signals that provide information related to certain systems of the vehicle. These warning signals are typically in the form of lights in a head-up display or console, certain vibrations provided in the steering wheel, auditory signals, and other signals that can be seen, heard, or felt by the vehicle operator. Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to one aspect of the disclosure, a vehicle includes a frame. A body is coupled to the frame and defines a passenger compartment within the body. The body has a plurality of interior sensors and a plurality of exterior sensors. A plurality of seating positions are within the passenger compartment. Each seating position has a plurality of occupant touch points. A plurality of force generators are positioned proximate to the occupant touch points. A controller is in communication with the plurality of interior sensors, the plurality of exterior sensors, and the plurality of force generators. The controller operates the plurality of force generators in response to sensed feedback from at least one of the plurality of interior sensors and the plurality of exterior sensors.

[0004] According to another aspect of the disclosure, an electric vehicle includes a frame. A body is coupled to the frame and defines a passenger compartment therein. The body has a plurality of internal sensors and a plurality of external sensors. The body and frame incorporate a plurality of resonant substrates. A plurality of seating positions are in the passenger compartment. Each seating position is located adjacent to at least one of the plurality of resonant substrates. A plurality of force generators are positioned in communication with the plurality of resonant substrates, respectively. A controller is in communication with the plurality of internal sensors, the plurality of external sensors, and the plurality of force generators. The controller operates the plurality of force generators to act on at least one of the plurality of resonant substrates in response to sensed feedback from at least one of the plurality of internal sensors and the external sensor.

[0005] According to another aspect of the disclosure, a vehicle includes a frame. A body is coupled to the frame and defines a passenger compartment therein. The body has a plurality of internal sensors and a plurality of external sensors. A plurality of resonant substrates are integrated into at least one of the frame and the body. A plurality of seating positions are in the passenger compartment. Each seating position has a plurality of occupant touch points. A first plurality of force generators are positioned proximate to the plurality of resonant substrates. The first plurality of force generators are selectively operative with respect to a portion of the plurality of resonant substrates to generate an audible signal. A second plurality of force generators are positioned proximate to the occupant touch points. The second plurality of force generators are operative in cooperation with the occupant touch points to generate at least a haptic signal. A controller is in communication with the plurality of internal sensors, the plurality of external sensors, the plurality of force generators, and the second plurality of force generators. The controller operates the first and second plurality of force generators in response to sensed feedback from at least one of the plurality of internal and external sensors to generate three-dimensional signals, including auditory and tactile signals.

[0006] These and other aspects, objects and features of the present disclosure will be understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art upon review of the following specification, claims, and accompanying drawings.

[0007] The drawing is as follows. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a top perspective view of a passenger compartment of a vehicle incorporating one embodiment of a three-dimensional signaling system; [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a force generator used within the three-dimensional signaling system. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the circular force generator of FIG. 2 taken along line III-III. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of first and second rotors of a force generator operative to generate a portion of a signal for a three-dimensional signaling system. [Diagram 5] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of first and second rotors of a force generator to generate components of a signal for a three-dimensional signaling system. FIG. [Figure 6] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of first and second rotors of a force generator to generate components of a signal for a three-dimensional signaling system. FIG. [Figure 7(a)] 1A-1D are various schematic diagrams of exemplary and non-limiting force generators that can be utilized within a three-dimensional signaling system. [Figure 7(b)] 1A-1D are various schematic diagrams of exemplary and non-limiting force generators that can be utilized within a three-dimensional signaling system. [Figure 7(c)] 1A-1D are various schematic diagrams of exemplary and non-limiting force generators that can be utilized within a three-dimensional signaling system. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of a vehicle body and frame showing example locations of force generators that can be used to generate aspects of an auditory signal. [Figure 9] 1 is an interior perspective view of a vehicle passenger compartment showing aspects of the auditory components of the signaling system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] Where necessary, detailed embodiments of the present disclosure are disclosed herein; however, it should be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the present invention, which may be embodied in various and alternative forms. The figures are not necessarily to detailed design, and some schematic diagrams may be exaggerated or minimized to show an outline of the functions. Therefore, the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein should not be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a representative basis for teaching those skilled in the art to employ the present invention in various ways.

[0010] For purposes of description herein, the terms "top," "bottom," "right," "left," "back," "front," "vertical," "horizontal," and their derivatives shall refer to the concepts as oriented in FIG. 1. However, it should be understood that the concepts may assume various alternative orientations, unless expressly specified to the contrary. It should also be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the accompanying drawings and described in the following specification are merely exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics related to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise.

[0011] The illustrated embodiment resides primarily in a combination of method steps and apparatus components associated with a three-dimensional signaling system that utilizes multiple force generators to provide haptic signals to an operator and other passengers regarding vehicle-related conditions and the direction in which the conditions occur. Accordingly, the apparatus components and method steps have been represented, where applicable, by conventional numerals in the drawings that show only those specific details relevant to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure, so as not to obscure the present disclosure with details that will be readily apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein. Additionally, like numerals in the description and drawings represent like elements.

[0012] As used herein, the term "and / or," when used in a list of two or more items, means that any one of the listed items can be taken alone, or any combination of two or more of the listed items can be taken. For example, if a composition is described as containing components A, B, and / or C, the composition can contain only A, only B, only C, a combination of A and B, a combination of A and C, a combination of B and C, or a combination of A, B, and C.

[0013] In this document, relative terms such as first and second, top and bottom, etc. are used only to distinguish one entity or action from another without necessarily requiring or implying any such actual relationship or order between such entities or actions. "Comprises," "comprising," or any other variation is intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include only those elements, but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent in such process, method, article, or apparatus. An element preceded by "comprises...a" does not exclude the presence of additional identical elements in a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises the element, without further constraints.

[0014] As used herein, the term "about" means that amounts, sizes, formulations, parameters, and other quantities and characteristics are not and need not be exact, but may be approximate and / or larger or smaller, as desired, to reflect tolerances, conversion factors, rounding, measurement errors, and the like, and other factors known to those skilled in the art. When the term "about" is used in describing a value or an endpoint of a range, the disclosure should be understood to include the specific value or endpoint referenced. Regardless of whether a numerical value or endpoint of a range in the specification is described as "about," the numerical value or endpoint of the range is intended to include two embodiments, those modified by "about" and those not modified by "about." Furthermore, it will be understood that each endpoint of a range is significant both in relation to the other endpoint and independently of the other endpoint.

[0015] As used herein, the terms "substantial," "substantially," and variations thereof are intended to note that a described feature is equal or nearly equal to a value or description. For example, a "substantially planar" surface is intended to describe a surface that is planar or nearly planar. Additionally, "substantially" is intended to describe two values ​​that are equal or nearly equal. In some embodiments, "substantially" may describe values ​​that are within about 10% of each other, such as within about 5% of each other or within about 2% of each other.

[0016] As used herein, the terms "the," "a," or "an" mean "at least one" and should not be limited to "only one" unless expressly indicated to the contrary. Thus, for example, reference to "a component" includes embodiments having two or more such components, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0017] As illustrated in Figures 1-6, reference numeral 10 generally refers to force generators incorporated within a three-dimensional signaling system 12 incorporated within a vehicle 14. The three-dimensional signaling system 12 provides tactile signals 52 or tactile outputs to various occupants of the vehicle 14 regarding a particular state or aspect of the vehicle 14 or information related to the environment surrounding the vehicle 14. The three-dimensional signaling system 12 utilizes a plurality of force generators 10 spaced throughout a passenger compartment 18 of the vehicle 14. In accordance with various aspects of the device, the vehicle 14 includes a frame 20 and a body 22 coupled to the frame 20 to define the passenger compartment 18 therein.

[0018] The frame 20 and body 22 may be separate components attached together or may be a single and integral unibody component where the frame 20 and body 22 are integrally formed as a single component. The frame 20 and body 22 may also be a combination of an integral frame 20 and body 22 component attached to a unibody component that includes a body 22 section.

[0019] 1-6 , the body 22 includes a number of internal and external sensors 24 and 26 that are connected to a controller 28 of the vehicle 14. The passenger compartment 18 includes a number of seating positions 30. The seating positions 30 may include an operator seat 32 and various passenger seats 34 located throughout the passenger compartment 18. Each seating position 30 includes a number of occupant touch points 36. These touch points 36 typically include areas where an occupant of the vehicle 14 physically engages, at least temporarily, with a portion of an interior surface 38 of the vehicle 14.

[0020] These occupant touch points 36 may include the seat 40, seat back 42, arm rests 44, and head rests 46 of each seating position 30, the floor 48, the steering wheel 50, and other areas where an occupant of the vehicle 14 physically engages a portion of an interior surface 38 of the passenger compartment 18 of the vehicle 14. A plurality of force generators 10 are positioned or otherwise disposed proximate to the occupant touch points 36.

[0021] The force generators 10 are selectively operated to generate a haptic signal 52 or haptic output that can be experienced by one or more of the occupants of the vehicle 14. A controller 28 is in communication with the plurality of internal and external sensors 24, 26 and the plurality of force generators 10. The controller 28 selectively operates one or more of the plurality of force generators 10 in response to sensed feedback from at least one of the plurality of internal and external sensors 24, 26.

[0022] In accordance with various aspects of the device, the interior sensors 24 are in communication with the passenger compartment 18. The exterior sensors 26 are in communication with an outward facing surface 60 of the body 22 that forms the exterior of the vehicle 14. The exterior sensors 26 are in communication with an area immediately surrounding the outward facing surface 60 of the body 22. In this manner, the exterior sensors 26 are able to determine the relative locations of objects and obstacles within a certain distance of the vehicle 14, as described herein.

[0023] In various aspects of the device, a particular occupant touch point 36 may include multiple dedicated force generators 10. Typically, when an occupant has more consistent contact with the surfaces of the vehicle 14, such as on the seat 40 and seat back 42, a greater number of force generators 10 are positioned to provide greater definition of the intended direction of the haptic signal 52. These force generators 10 may be mounted within the respective touch points 36, or may be mounted within locations proximate or near the respective touch points 36. Additionally, the force generators 10 may be mounted to the same structure that defines the touch point 36, such as an arm rest 44, or a portion of the seating position 30. The force generators 10 may also be mounted to a more structurally robust substrate, such as the frame 20 or body 22 of the vehicle 14, or a unibody.

[0024] 1-7, the force generators 10 utilized within the three-dimensional signaling system 12 may include, but are not limited to, circular force generators 90, linear force generators 130, lateral force generators, vertical force generators, and other similar directional force generators that may be used to generate the haptic signals 52 experienced by the occupants of the vehicle 14. Non-limiting examples of these force generators 10 are illustrated in Figures 2-7(c). These occupants include the operator and passengers in various seating positions 30 within the passenger compartment 18 of the vehicle 14.

[0025] According to various aspects of the device, multiple force generators 10 can be positioned within the body 22, or unibody, of the vehicle 14 and near various occupant touch points 36. The force generators 10 can also be placed within the cushions and bolsters of the various seating positions 30. When either the internal sensor 24 or the external sensor 26 senses a condition in the vehicle 14 that requires a signal, such as a warning, communication, feedback, or other signal to be provided to one of the occupants, the external sensor 26 communicates the condition to the controller 28.

[0026] The controller 28 then communicates with one or more force generators 10 in corresponding occupant touch points 36. In addition to the sensors 24, the force generators 10 may also be activated, deactivated, or generally operated through one or more dedicated signals, commands, or actions of the vehicle 14. By way of example, and without limitation, the use of a turn signal for the vehicle 14 may activate one or more force generators 10 that provide a haptic signal 52 to the operator that the turn signal has been activated.

[0027] According to various aspects of the device, the location of the force generator 10 and the type of force generator 10 used within a particular portion of the vehicle 14 may vary depending on a variety of factors. These factors may include, but are not limited to, the loudness of the force generator 10, the size available for the force generator 10, whether a haptic signal 52, an auditory signal 146, or both are desired from a particular location, the desired frequency and / or amplitude of the signal, whether multiple harmonics are desired from a particular location, combinations of these factors, and other similar factors related to the operational characteristics of various types of force generators 10.

[0028] By way of example and without limitation, one embodiment of the device may include a force generator 10 in a seat 32 of a vehicle 14. In certain cases, the force generator 10 in the seat 14 may be a linearly operating force generator 10, or an LFG. These LFGs may be quieter in operation such that use of an LFG may be appropriate in the seat 32 such that an occupant is less likely to hear the operation of the force generator 10. In this way, the occupant may understand the auditory signal 146 and / or haptic signal 52 generated by the force generator 10, and not the sound of the force generator 10 itself.

[0029] 1-6, the three dimensional signaling system 12 is used to activate force generators 10 in occupant touch points 36 that correspond to the direction, relative to the occupant, in which the signal originates. By way of example and without limitation, if an operator's side door 70 is slightly open, a force generator 10 in the occupant touch point 36 of the operator seat 32 or arm rest 44 for the left side of the seat 40 may be activated to alert the operator that the door 70 on that left side is not fully closed. Thus, the force generator 10 on the operator's left side operates to alert the operator of the condition on the operator's left side.

[0030] According to various aspects of the device, the frequency of the vibrations 142 generated by the force generator 10 can be varied. It has been shown that changes in frequency can be used to accentuate or dampen the directional components 62 of these vibrations 142. Stated another way, if the force generator 10 generates a higher frequency haptic signal 52, an occupant of the vehicle 14 can better determine where within the vehicle 14 the vibrations 142 of the haptic signal 52 originate.

[0031] Conversely, the low frequency tactile signals 52 generated by the force generator 10 are perceived to be more ubiquitous in nature such that the occupant is less likely to be able to determine where the lower frequency vibrations 142 originate from. Using these variations in frequency and the use of different frequencies in combination, the three-dimensional signaling system 12 can be utilized to generate a wide range of experiential tactile signals 52 that may be directional, ubiquitous, or contain different frequency components including the range of frequencies generated by the force generator 10.

[0032] Using this configuration, when the haptic signal 52 requires a directional component 62, the force generator 10 typically generates a higher frequency vibration 142 so that the generation of the haptic signal 52 is more easily perceived. Conversely, when the haptic signal 52 does not require a directional component 62, a lower frequency can be generated by the various force generators 10.

[0033] In accordance with various aspects of the device, certain tests have shown that within certain circumstances, certain types of force generators 10 can effectively generate certain frequencies of auditory signals 146. By way of example and not limitation, tests have shown that circular force generators 10 or CFGs can effectively generate low and mid-frequency auditory signals 146. Additionally, tests have shown that linear force generators 10 or LFGs can effectively generate mid and higher frequency auditory signals 146. Additionally, in certain aspects of the device, the haptic signal 52 can typically be effectively generated by an LFG. Tests have also shown that a haptic signal 52, which is in the form of a globally perceived vibration that can be distributed throughout the passenger compartment 18 and vehicle 14, can be effectively generated by a CFG.

[0034] Similarly, if the operator is about to change lanes on a roadway, the three-dimensional signaling system 12 may provide the operator with a haptic signal 52 about the presence of an obstacle, such as another vehicle 14 in the blind spot 80 of the vehicle 14. Thus, if the operator is about to change lanes to the right, the presence of a vehicle 14 in the blind spot 80 to the right of the vehicle 14 may be sensed by one of the external sensors 26. These external sensors 26 may communicate with the controller 28 regarding conditions within the blind spot 80 of the vehicle 14.

[0035] The controller 28 can then alert the driver through an active force generator 10 to the right of the operator seat 32, such as the seat 40, the seat back 42, or the headrest 46, to the right of the steering wheel 50. Used in combination, these force generators 10, the three dimensional signaling system 12 alerts the operator to the presence of a condition on the right side of the vehicle 14 and within the operator's blind spot 80.

[0036] In one particular embodiment of the device, a particular seating location 30 within the vehicle 14 may include multiple force generators 10 to alert an occupant, typically the driver, of the presence of an object near the vehicle 14. Using external sensors 26, the presence of the object may be communicated to the driver through a sequenced set of varying actuations. These actuations may be coordinated to generate three-dimensional haptic signals 52 that are received by the driver through the driver's engagement with touch points 36 on the seat 40 and steering wheel 50.

[0037] In this manner, the force generators 10 generate a haptic signal 52 having a directional component 62 and a time component that can communicate the relative position of an object with respect to the vehicle 14 over time. According to various aspects of the device, this directional component 62 can be created by a plurality of force generators 10 being operated in a coordinated manner by the controller 28. This coordinated operation of the force generators 10 can generate the directional component 62 of the haptic signal 52 and / or the auditory signal 146 that is delivered through a timed sequential path 190 through the passenger compartment 18. This timed sequential path 190 can be linear, radial, converging, diverging, and other directional configurations. In various aspects of the device, the auditory signal 144 can be generated by a first plurality of force generators 10.

[0038] It is also contemplated that the tactile signal 52 may be generated by a second plurality of force generators 10. It is further contemplated that the tactile signal 52 and the auditory signal 144 may be generated by a common force generator 10 by modifying the amplitude, frequency, or other variable characteristics of one or more of the force generators 10.

[0039] In at least one embodiment of the device, the force generators 10 can be actuated such that the force generators 10 closest to the object provide greater feedback than those force generators 10 further from the object. As the object moves closer or further away from the vehicle 14 or changes position relative to the vehicle 14, as detected by the external sensor 26, the force generators 10 can change the characteristics of the generated vibration. This change in vibration can be in the form of a change in the frequency of actuation, the amplitude of actuation, the number of actuations and deactuations that may occur over time, as well as other changes in vibration.

[0040] As the relative position of the object moves toward the front of the vehicle 14, the three-dimensional haptic signal 52 generated by the force generators 10 increases in the force generators 10 positioned near the front of the seat 40. Additionally, the force generators 10 may be selectively operated by the controller 28 to provide adjustable amplitudes, and adjustable frequencies, and / or adjustable durations, which may be modified, modulated, or otherwise altered to provide a desired haptic signal 52 and / or a desired auditory signal 146.

[0041] By way of example and without limitation, the seat 40 may include four force generators 10 and the steering wheel 50 may include a series of force generators 10. These force generators 10 may be operated in a coordinated manner to provide enhanced vibrations in the direction of the object. The haptic signal 52 communicates to the driver the presence of an object, such as another vehicle 14 in the blind spot 80. As the position of the object changes relative to the vehicle 14, as sensed by the external sensor 26, the characteristics of the haptic signal 52 generated by these force generators 10 change as described herein.

[0042] Thus, the force generator 10 generates a three-dimensional haptic signal 52 that is communicated to the driver regarding the state and change in state of the object. In this manner, the haptic signal 52 may be a communication prompt associated with the driver's side of the vehicle 14. A timed sequential path 190 of the haptic signal 52 and / or auditory signal 146 is directed toward the driver's side of the vehicle 14. Typically, generation of this directional signal is in response to the multiple external sensors 26 sensing a separate vehicle 14 positioned adjacent to an exterior surface of the driver's side of the vehicle 14.

[0043] 1, various occupant touch points 36 can be activated and deactivated depending on whether an occupant of the vehicle 14 is physically engaging with the respective occupant touch point 36. Various touch surfaces, weight sensors, and other sensors can be utilized to indicate whether a body part of the occupant is physically engaging with one of the occupant touch points 36.

[0044] When such an interaction occurs, the occupant touch point 36 and the force generator 10 associated with that occupant touch point 36 can be placed in a ready state to provide a haptic signal 52. When the occupant body part is removed from the corresponding occupant touch point 36, that occupant touch point 36 can be deactivated as it is in an idle state and cannot communicate a haptic signal 52.

[0045] Similarly, various sensors within the steering wheel 50 may be activated and deactivated based on where the operator engages the steering wheel 50. Thus, the three-dimensional signaling system 12 may include a continuously varying set of active touch points 36 of the plurality of occupant touch points 36 based on which seating positions 30 are occupied and which portions of the vehicle 14 the various occupants are physically engaged with. Additionally, the occupant touch points 36 may include certain portions of the passenger compartment-facing surface 64 that are positioned adjacent at least one seating position 30 of the plurality of seating positions 30 within the passenger compartment 18.

[0046] The various signals generated by the force generator 10 may vary in pattern, magnitude, intensity, and duration. By way of example and without limitation, a warning related to a road or obstacle located in close proximity to the vehicle 14 may be communicated to the operator or other passenger of the vehicle 14 as a set of intermittent vibrations that are communicated to the operator or other passenger. The intermittent vibrations may be indicative of or similar to the vehicle 14 traveling over rumble strips that are defined within the surface and along the shoulders of the roadway.

[0047] It is also contemplated that the intensity of the vibrations may increase depending on the proximity of an obstacle or condition to the exterior of the vehicle 14. Thus, as the vehicle 14 moves closer to an obstacle or edge of a roadway, the intensity of the vibrations produced by the three-dimensional signaling system 12 may increase over time. Conversely, as the obstacle and vehicle 14 move away from one another, the intensity of the vibration or haptic signal 52 may decrease.

[0048] It is contemplated that the variations in the haptic signal 52 generated by the various force generators 10 can be defined and built into the controller 28 or microcontroller 110. In this aspect of the device, a particular haptic signal 52 is provided in response to a set input. It is also contemplated that the variations in the haptic signal 52 can be monitored by feedback sensors. These feedback sensors can detect characteristics of the haptic signal 52 generated by the force generators 10. If the haptic signal 52 does not match the desired haptic output, the feedback sensors can communicate this discrepancy to the controller 28 or microcontroller 110, which can then adjust the operation of the force generator 10 to match the desired haptic output of the haptic signal 52.

[0049] According to various aspects of the device, the three-dimensional signaling system 12 can be utilized as a tactile communication device between occupants. When one occupant desires to attract the attention of another occupant, a signal can be provided to the occupant regarding the direction of the person with whom they wish to communicate. In this manner, the tactile signal 52 and / or the auditory signal 146 can be a communication prompt associated with a source seating position 30 of the plurality of seating positions 30, and a timed sequential path 190 is directed to the source seating position 30.

[0050] By way of example and not limitation, if a front passenger wishes to alert a rear passenger that attention is needed, the three-dimensional signaling system 12 may activate the force generators 10 toward the front of the seating position 30. This activation of the three-dimensional signaling system 12 provides a signal that a passenger at the front of the passenger compartment 18 is attempting to get attention. This may be useful when driving conditions are particularly noisy or when one of the passengers is utilizing an entertainment feature and is unable to hear the other passenger. The three-dimensional signaling system 12 may also be used to provide an entertainment feature where the various force generators 10 may enhance a particular sequence of a movie, video game, music, or other entertainment experience.

[0051] 2-6, the force generator 10 may be in the form of a circular force generator 90. If a circular force generator 90 is used, the circular force generator 90 includes a first rotor 92 having a first eccentric 94, and a second rotor 96 having a second eccentric 98. A central shaft 100 extends between the first rotor 92 and the second rotor 96, which are rotatably operable about a common axis of rotation 102 relative to one another.

[0052] This rotational motion can be used to position the first and second eccentrics 94, 98 relative to one another. This movement of the first and second eccentrics 94, 98 can define a balanced position 104 and any one of a number of eccentric positions 106. The various eccentric positions 106 can be used to modify the strength of the haptic signals 52 generated by the various force generators 10.

[0053] In the balanced position 104, substantially no haptic signal 52 is provided. As the first and second eccentrics 94, 98 move relative to one another about the axis of rotation 102, the haptic signal 52 may be modified or modulated. A stator assembly 108 is in electromagnetic communication with the first and second rotors 92, 96. A microcontroller 110 may be incorporated within the force generator 10 to provide electrical current to the stator assembly 108 to regulate the rotational speed of the first and second rotors 92, 96 and the relative position of the first and second eccentrics 94, 98 relative to one another.

[0054] According to various aspects of the device, the three-dimensional signaling system 12 provides generalized and directional vibrations that can generate low frequency vibrations 142 and low frequency sounds 172 to various occupants of the vehicle 14. The various haptic signals 16 can be in the form of warnings to the occupants related to conditions within or around the vehicle 14.

[0055] As discussed herein, the various force generators 10 provide an overall vibration response throughout the passenger compartment 18 of the vehicle 14 by using the various occupant touch points 36. The frequency of vibration and the intensity of vibration generated by the various force generators 10 can be customized through various mapping topologies throughout the vehicle 14. Thus, the intensity of the various vibrations can be greater in areas where warnings occur and less in other areas of the passenger compartment 18. Additionally, the various force generators 10 can be used in a sequence and mapping function to vibrate in a particular sequence and haptic direction 120 to direct the occupant's attention to specific parts of the vehicle 14.

[0056] Thus, if the signal is directed to the front right 124 of the vehicle 14, the various force generators 10 may be activated with varying intensity from the rear left 122 towards the front right 124. This directional mapping of vibrations is used to direct the attention of various occupants to specific portions of or areas around the vehicle 14. Typically, if only the operator is alerted through the haptic signal 52, the haptic direction 120 may be experienced in the operator seat 32.

[0057] Through the various configurations described herein, each seating location 30 of the vehicle 14 and its associated occupant touch points 36 may be equipped with a force generator 10. These force generators 10 may be activated and deactivated in various combinations and permutations to direct the occupant's attention to specific portions of the vehicle 14. Additionally, the three-dimensional signaling system 12 may create a unique, customizable vehicle signature that may indicate various conditions present in and around the vehicle 14.

[0058] As described herein, the various haptic signals 52 generated by the three-dimensional signaling system 12 can include lane departure signals, operator warning signals, external proximity signals, inter-passenger communication, entertainment signals, combinations thereof, and other like haptic signals 52 and warnings. Typically, the haptic signals 52 provided to the operator are related to vehicle conditions, while the haptic signals 52 provided to passengers other than the operator may be more entertainment related or related to inter-passenger communication.

[0059] According to various aspects of the device, the three-dimensional signaling system 12 can be utilized in an electric vehicle 14 that is primarily or exclusively powered by an electric power system to generate certain experiential vibrations. Because an electric vehicle 14 generates little noise or vibration during operation, the use of the three-dimensional signaling system 12 can be useful to provide informational and experiential haptic signals 52 related to the vehicle 14. The three-dimensional signaling system 12 can also be used in a hybrid vehicle 14 that includes a combustion engine that complements the electric power system. The three-dimensional signaling system 12 can also be used in a conventional combustion engine vehicle 14.

[0060] According to various aspects of the device, the three-dimensional signaling system 12 provides various occupants with a system of haptic signals 52 that can be used to direct a user's attention in a particular direction of the vehicle 14. Thus, an occupant of the vehicle 14 can direct their attention to a portion of the vehicle 14 that requires attention without having to look at a head-up display or other portion of a console to determine where a particular condition is occurring. The intuitive functionality of the three-dimensional signaling system 12 can provide immediate information feedback to the operator of the vehicle 14 to know where a particular condition is occurring.

[0061] 1-9, the signaling system 12 of the vehicle 14 may include an auditory signal 146 in the form of an auditory alert 140 or multiple auditory alerts 140 that may be perceived from one or more seating positions 30 of the vehicle 14. These auditory alerts 140 may be generated using one or more force generators 10 that operate to generate high frequency vibrations 142. The vibrations 142 act on a resonant substrate 144. The combination of the vibrations 142 and the resonant substrate 144 may be used to generate the auditory alerts 140 or other auditory signals 146 that may be perceived throughout the passenger compartment 18 of the vehicle 14.

[0062] As described herein, the locations of the force generators 10 may be positioned or otherwise arranged to generate one or more auditory signals 146 that may be positioned to emanate from various locations in the passenger compartment 18. It is contemplated that various components of the frame 20, interior panels 148, exterior panels 150, and other surfaces of the vehicle 14 may be utilized as a resonant substrate 144.

[0063] 1, 8, and 9, in certain embodiments of the device, the force generator 10 may be mounted to the frame 20 of the vehicle 14, or to various interior and / or exterior panels 148, 150 of the vehicle 14. When positioned on a certain body panel 162, the force generator 10 may be positioned within an interior cavity 160 that is positioned within the frame 20 of the vehicle 14. In addition to vibrating against one or more resonant substrates 144, the interior cavities 160 within the frame 20 of the vehicle 14 may be used as amplification chambers to enhance the auditory signal 146. These interior cavities 160 may be located within the doors 70 of the vehicle 14, within various body panels 162 for the vehicle 14, within certain components of the frame 20 for the vehicle 14, within the seats 40, within arm rests 44, and elsewhere within and around the passenger compartment 18 for the vehicle 14.

[0064] Referring again to FIGS. 1-9, the force generator 10 can be utilized throughout the vehicle 14 to generate certain frequencies of vibrations 142. If the signaling system 12 is intended to generate a haptic signal 16, the force generator 10 can generate low frequency vibrations 142 having a frequency of approximately 20 Hz to about 100 Hz. If the signaling system 12 is intended to generate an auditory signal 146, the force generator 10 can operate at higher frequencies, greater than approximately 50 Hz, and typically greater than approximately 100 Hz. Within these higher ranges of frequencies, the vibrations 142 become more difficult to detect with the haptic sense. These higher frequency vibrations 142 are more likely to be sensed in an auditory sense. This is especially true when these vibrations 142 act on a resonant substrate 144 within the vehicle 14.

[0065] 1-9, if the signaling system 12 is intended to generate a haptic signal 16 or a haptic signal 52, the force generators 10 can be larger to generate a larger amplitude of vibrations 142 that can also be sensed by the occupants of the vehicle 14. To achieve the higher frequency vibrations 142 required to generate an auditory signal 146, the force generators 10 are typically smaller in size. These smaller force generators 10 can operate faster to generate higher frequency vibrations 142. These higher frequency vibrations 142 can act on one of the resonant substrates 144 to generate the auditory signal 146.

[0066] It is contemplated that the force generators 10 placed throughout the vehicle 14 to generate the auditory signal 146 may be tuned or otherwise configured to accommodate the various naturally occurring harmonics 170 of the resonant substrate 144 to which the force generator 10 is mounted. Thus, a force generator 10 mounted on a steel resonant substrate 144 may have a different operating frequency than a force generator 10 mounted on an aluminum resonant substrate 144. Also, if the resonant substrate 144 is made of any other material, such as plastic, composite, ceramic, or other similar material, the force generator 10 may be tuned to take advantage of the various inherent harmonics 170 associated with the material of each particular resonant substrate 144.

[0067] It is also contemplated that certain materials may be utilized as a resonant substrate 144 that may generate different auditory signals 146 based on the frequency of the vibrations 142 generated by the force generator 10. Thus, a particular resonant substrate 144 may generate a lower frequency tone or lower pitch sound 172 where the force generator 10 creates a low frequency vibration 142. If a higher frequency vibration 142 is generated by the force generator 10, the resonant substrate 144 may generate a higher frequency tone or higher pitch sound 172 of the auditory signal 146.

[0068] The force generator 10 may be used in combination with the resonant substrate 144, or at least one resonant substrate 144 (typically multiple resonant substrates 144), to generate an auditory signal 146 or system of auditory feedback by the signaling system 12 of the vehicle 14. These auditory alerts 140 and auditory signals 146 may be used to provide indicators regarding the status of the vehicle 14, certain information regarding the vehicle 14 or passenger compartment 18, and other similar signals to the user.

[0069] By way of example, and without limitation, if a task light 180 for a particular seating position 30 within a vehicle 14 remains on for an extended period of time, the force generator 10 may be operated to generate a vibration 142 relative to a resonant substrate 144 that is positioned near the task light 180. This operation of the force generator 10 may generate an auditory signal 146 having a particular frequency or tone that may alert one or more occupants regarding the status of the task light 180.

[0070] In accordance with various aspects of the device, it is contemplated that if an electric vehicle 14 is equipped with the signaling system 12, the signaling system 12 may be utilized to reproduce certain sounds 172 that are typically experienced by vehicles 14 with combustion engines, but not typically experienced within an electric vehicle 14. For example, a combustion engine sound 172 may be reproduced using one or more force generators 10 and one or more resonant substrates 144. Such sounds 172 may emanate from the flank (front track) area of ​​the electric vehicle 14, providing the experience of having an engine at the front of the vehicle or other portion of the vehicle 14.

[0071] Additionally, the sound 172 of one vehicle 14 approaching from behind the vehicle 14 or approaching from the front of the vehicle 14 can be reproduced as a "whoosh" using the signaling system 12. The reproduction of these signals can be used to provide the operator with certain auditory feedback related to the passenger compartment 18, the vehicle 14, and / or the environment surrounding the vehicle 14. For more complex sounds 172, like the sound of a combustion engine, multiple force generators 10 and multiple resonant substrates 144 can be used in combination to generate more sophisticated or polychromatic sounds. The force generators 10 can be positioned in the flanks of the electric vehicle 14 and in any of the storage areas that may be present in the electric vehicle 14.

[0072] According to various aspects of the device, the force generator 10 may be mounted to a resonant substrate 144 that is integrated within a portion of the frame 20 of the vehicle 14. It is also contemplated that dedicated resonant substrates 144 of specific materials having particularly responsive resonant characteristics may be placed within the vehicle 14. These dedicated resonant materials may be utilized to provide specific audible warnings 140 and audible signals 146 to the occupants of the vehicle 14. It is also contemplated that a particular force generator 10 may be operable relative to the resonant substrate 144 to utilize various harmonic characteristics that correspond to specific locations within the resonant substrate 144.

[0073] As discussed herein, the force generators 10 that generate the haptic signal 16, the haptic signal 52, and the auditory signal 146, as discussed herein, may be located throughout the vehicle 14.

[0074] It is also contemplated that the auditory signals 146 can be used in combination with the various haptic signals 52 and haptic signals 16 to create a range of experiential events for various occupants of the vehicle 14. Variations in amount, intensity, and direction can also be used to highlight certain experiential features within the passenger compartment 18 of the vehicle 14.

[0075] As additional, non-limiting examples of devices, the signaling system 12 may position linear force generators 10, or LFGs, in or near the passenger compartment 18 and within the occupant touch points 36. Typically, LFGs have a quieter operating sound so that the generated haptic signals 52 and / or auditory signals 146 can be received without also hearing the operation of the force generators 10 themselves. Conversely, other types of force generators 10, such as circular force generators, or CFGs, may be positioned within the frame 20, body panels 162, or unibody of the vehicle 14 to generate certain auditory signals 146 and / or haptic signals 52.

[0076] According to various embodiments of the device, the haptic signal 52 can be generated by a combination of types of force generators 10. By way of example and without limitation, an expansive and more ubiquitous haptic signal 52 that may have a lower frequency is

[0077] The haptic signal 52 may be generated through the use of a CFG or force generator 10 that operates through a circular motion, or through the use of a LFG or force generator 10 that operates through a linear motion, such as a haptic signal 52 that may have a higher frequency or require less force to be perceived at the occupant touch point 36, etc. In general, the haptic signal 52 and the auditory signal 146 may be operated through a signal force generator 10, or through a combination of force generators 10 that may operate in concert to generate a multi-frequency haptic signal 52 and / or auditory signal 146. In this manner, a variety of harmonics and sounds including a variety of auditory spectrums may be used by the signaling system 12 to enhance the occupant experience within the passenger compartment 18 of the vehicle 14.

[0078] According to various aspects of the device, the vehicle 14 can be switched between certain modes of operation. Such modes can include an off-road mode, a high performance mode, a winter mode, an economy mode, and other similar modes of operation. It is contemplated that the signaling system 12 can be used in conjunction with these modes to generate different haptic signals 52 and audible signals 146 that cooperate with the mode of operation to generate unique feedback to the occupants of the vehicle 14 based on the mode selected.

[0079] By way of example, and without limitation, an off-road mode setting may be combined with certain haptic signals 52 that are directed throughout the vehicle 14 to provide a sense of traversing rough terrain. Again, it is contemplated that each mode of operation may be paired with a unique set of haptic signals 52 and auditory signals 146 that may be indicative of that particular mode of operation. It is also contemplated that each mode of operation may include a customizable set of haptic signals 52 and auditory signals 146 that a user may designate as indicative of that particular mode of operation.

[0080] According to various aspects of the device, the auditory signal 146 can also be projected to an area outside the vehicle as an auditory warning 140. By way of example and without limitation, a particular force generator 10 can be located near the outside of the vehicle 14 to generate an auditory signal 146 that can be heard by pedestrians surrounding the vehicle 14. If an external sensor senses that a pedestrian is near the vehicle 14, the force generator 10 can generate an auditory warning 140 to inform the pedestrian that the vehicle 12 is approaching. In this manner, the force generator 10 can be utilized as a proximity warning for pedestrians surrounding the vehicle 14 to be aware of the presence of the vehicle 14.

[0081] It should also be understood that changes and modifications can be made to the structure described above without departing from the concepts of the present disclosure, and further that such concepts are intended to be covered by the following claims unless those claims expressly state otherwise by their language.

Claims

1. A vehicle, The frame and a body coupled to the frame, the body defining a passenger compartment therein, the body having a plurality of interior sensors and a plurality of exterior sensors; a plurality of seating positions within the passenger compartment, each seating position having a plurality of occupant touch points; a plurality of force generators positioned proximate the occupant touch points; a controller in communication with the plurality of internal sensors, the plurality of external sensors, and the plurality of force generators, the controller operating the plurality of force generators in response to sensed feedback from at least one of the plurality of internal sensors and the plurality of external sensors. vehicle.

2. further comprising a power system; The vehicle of claim 1 .

3. the plurality of force generators are disposed on one of the frame, the body, and the plurality of seating positions; The vehicle of claim 1 .

4. the frame and the body include a resonant substrate, and the plurality of force generators are attached to the resonant substrate; The vehicle of claim 1 .

5. the plurality of force generators are circular force generators; The vehicle of claim 1 .

6. the plurality of force generators are configured to be selectively operable to generate three-dimensional tactile signals for the plurality of seating positions; The vehicle of claim 1 .

7. the plurality of force generators are configured to generate haptic outputs operated by the controller; The vehicle of claim 1 .

8. the haptic output includes an adjustable amplitude, an adjustable frequency, and an adjustable duration operated by the controller; 8. The vehicle of claim 7.

9. the plurality of force generators are operated by the controller in a coordinated manner to generate directional components of a three-dimensional haptic signal that is delivered through a timed sequential path through the passenger compartment. The vehicle of claim 1 .

10. the tactile signal is a communication prompt associated with an originating seating position of the plurality of seating positions, and the timed sequential path is directed to the originating seating position.

10. The vehicle of claim 9.

11. the three-dimensional haptic signal is a communication prompt associated with a driver's side of the vehicle, and the timed sequential path is directed toward the driver's side of the vehicle in response to the plurality of external sensors sensing a separate vehicle positioned adjacent an exterior surface of the driver's side of the vehicle.

10. The vehicle of claim 9.

12. The power system is an exclusive power source.

3. The vehicle of claim 2.

13. the occupant touch point includes a cabin-facing surface positioned adjacent at least one of the plurality of seating positions. The vehicle of claim 1 .

14. the plurality of internal sensors are in communication with the passenger compartment; The vehicle of claim 1 .

15. 15. The vehicle of claim 14, wherein the plurality of external sensors are in communication with an outward facing surface of the body outside the passenger compartment and in communication with an area immediately surrounding the outward facing surface of the body.

16. the body and the frame are formed as a single, integral unibody component; A vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 15.

17. An electric vehicle, The frame and a body coupled to the frame, the body defining a passenger compartment therein and having a plurality of interior sensors and a plurality of exterior sensors, the body and the frame incorporating a plurality of resonant substrates; a plurality of seating positions within the passenger compartment, each seating position being located adjacent to at least one resonant substrate among the plurality of resonant substrates; a plurality of force generators positioned in respective communication with the plurality of resonant substrates; a controller in communication with the plurality of internal sensors, the plurality of external sensors, and the plurality of force generators, the controller operating the plurality of force generators to act on at least one of the plurality of resonant substrates in response to sensed feedback from at least one of the plurality of internal sensors and external sensors. Electric vehicle.

18. the plurality of force generators are disposed proximate to at least one of the frame, the body, and the plurality of seating positions; 18. The electric vehicle according to claim 17.

19. the plurality of force generators comprising at least one of a circular force generator and a linear force generator; 18. The electric vehicle according to claim 17.

20. the plurality of force generators are configured to be selectively operable to generate three-dimensional tactile signals for the plurality of seating positions; 18. The electric vehicle according to claim 17.

21. the plurality of force generators are configured to generate haptic outputs operated by the controller; 18. The electric vehicle according to claim 17.

22. the haptic output comprises an adjustable amplitude, an adjustable frequency, and an adjustable duration; 22. The electric vehicle of claim 21.

23. the plurality of force generators are operated by the controller in a coordinated manner to generate directional components of a three-dimensional haptic signal that is delivered through a timed sequential path through the passenger compartment.

18. The electric vehicle according to claim 17.

24. the three-dimensional tactile signal is a communication prompt associated with an originating seating position of the plurality of seating positions, and the timed sequential path is directed toward the originating seating position.

18. The electric vehicle according to claim 17.

25. the three-dimensional haptic signal is a communication prompt associated with a driver's side of the vehicle, and the timed sequential path is directed toward the driver's side of the vehicle in response to the plurality of external sensors sensing a separate vehicle positioned adjacent an exterior surface of the driver's side of the vehicle.

24. The electric vehicle of claim 23.

26. [0023] Further comprising a combustion engine supplementing the power system; 18. The electric vehicle according to claim 17.

27. an occupant touch point including a cabin-facing surface positioned adjacent at least one of the plurality of seating positions; The electric vehicle according to any one of claims 17 to 26.

28. the plurality of internal sensors are in communication with the passenger compartment, and the plurality of external sensors are in communication with an outward-facing surface of the body outside the passenger compartment and in communication with an area immediately surrounding the outward-facing surface of the body; 28. The electric vehicle of claim 27.

29. the body and the frame are formed as a single, integral unibody component; 18. The electric vehicle according to claim 17.

30. A vehicle, The frame and a body coupled to the frame, the body defining a passenger compartment therein, the body having a plurality of interior sensors and a plurality of exterior sensors; a plurality of resonant substrates embedded in at least one of the frame and the body; a plurality of seating positions within a passenger compartment, each seating position having a plurality of occupant touch points; a first plurality of force generators positioned proximate to the plurality of resonant substrates, the first plurality of force generators selectively operating on portions of the plurality of resonant substrates to generate an auditory signal; a second plurality of force generators positioned proximate the occupant touch points, the second plurality of force generators operatively cooperating with the occupant touch points to generate at least a haptic signal; a controller in communication with the plurality of internal sensors, the plurality of external sensors, the first plurality of force generators, and the second plurality of force generators, the controller operating the first plurality and the second plurality of force generators in response to sensed feedback from at least one of the plurality of internal sensors and the external sensors to generate three-dimensional signals including the auditory signal and the tactile signal. vehicle.

31. the plurality of first and second force generators are disposed proximate to at least one of the frame, the body, and the plurality of seating positions; 31. The vehicle of claim 30.

32. the plurality of first and second force generators comprising at least one of a circular force generator and a linear force generator; 31. The vehicle of claim 30.

33. the plurality of first and second force generators are configured to be selectively operable to generate three-dimensional tactile signals for the plurality of seating positions; 31. The vehicle of claim 30.

34. the plurality of first and second force generators are configured to generate the haptic signals operated by the controller.

31. The vehicle of claim 30.

35. the tactile signal comprises an adjustable amplitude, an adjustable frequency, and an adjustable duration; 35. The vehicle of claim 34.

36. the plurality of force generators are operated by the controller in a coordinated manner to generate directional components of the haptic signal that are delivered through timed sequential paths through the passenger compartment.

31. The vehicle of claim 30.

37. the tactile signal is a communication prompt associated with an originating seating position of the plurality of seating positions, and the timed sequential path is directed to the originating seating position.

37. The vehicle of claim 36.

38. the haptic signal is a communication prompt associated with a driver's side of the vehicle, and the timed sequential path is directed toward the driver's side of the vehicle in response to the plurality of external sensors sensing a separate vehicle positioned adjacent an exterior surface of the driver's side of the vehicle.

37. The vehicle of claim 36.

39. [0023] Further comprising a combustion engine supplementing the power system; 31. The vehicle of claim 30.

40. the occupant touch point includes a cabin-facing surface positioned adjacent at least one of the plurality of seating positions.

31. The vehicle of claim 30.

41. the plurality of internal sensors are in communication with the passenger compartment; A vehicle according to any one of claims 30 to 40.

42. the plurality of external sensors are in communication with an outward-facing surface of the body outside the passenger compartment and in communication with an area immediately surrounding the outward-facing surface of the body; 42. The vehicle of claim 41.

43. the body and the frame are formed as a single, integral unibody component; 31. The vehicle of claim 30.

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