Active Material Vehicle Component Adaptation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle components lack the ability to adapt dynamically to the biometric characteristics of occupants, such as physical and emotional states, leading to suboptimal comfort and functionality.
Innovation Solution
A system and method utilizing an active material, operatively connected or forming vehicle components, which changes properties in response to biometric variables of occupants, such as pulse, breathing rate, or brain activity, via activation signals derived from wearable sensors and electronic control devices, or through 4D printing technology that reacts to environmental changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If vehicle components use fixed properties and static design, then manufacturing is simple and cost-effective, but adaptability to different occupants and conditions is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transforming static vehicle components into dynamic ones that can change properties in real-time. The active material integrated into components like dashboards and door linings responds to biometric signals (temperature, humidity, electrical signals) to dynamically adjust texture, shape, and other properties, enabling adaptation to different occupants without requiring completely separate component designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by modifying physical and chemical parameters of the active material through activation signals. By changing temperature, humidity, or electrical parameters, the system triggers reversible changes in the active material's properties such as texture and shape, allowing the same component to serve multiple functions for different occupants.
2Adaptability or versatility
If vehicle components are customized for each occupant, then comfort and functionality are optimized, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universality by designing vehicle components with integrated active materials that can perform multiple functions within a single component structure. The same dashboard component can adapt its texture and properties to serve different occupants (driver, front passenger, rear passengers) without requiring separate customized components for each position, thereby maintaining manufacturing simplicity while achieving individualized adaptation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies self-service by enabling vehicle components to automatically detect and respond to biometric characteristics of occupants through integrated sensors and active materials. The components self-adjust their properties based on detected signals (temperature, humidity, electrical signals) without requiring manual intervention or complex external control systems, simplifying both manufacturing and operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If active material properties change in response to biometric variables, then occupant comfort is enhanced, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by implementing intermittent activation of the active material based on changing biometric conditions rather than continuous operation. The system activates the active material only when biometric variables indicate a need for adaptation, and uses reversible changes that can be triggered by small, periodic energy inputs from biometric signals, thereby reducing overall energy consumption while maintaining dynamic adaptability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables individualized adaptation of vehicle components, such as dashboards or ventilation systems, to enhance occupant comfort by automatically adjusting properties like illumination, ventilation, or fragrance based on real-time biometric data, improving the overall driving experience.
Implementation Method 1
an active material (1; 2), in particular a shape memory alloy, a shape memory polymer, an electro-active polymer, a magnetorheological elastomer or a piezoelectric crystal, which is capable of changing at least one property, for example their shapes
Implementation Method 2
US 2005/0157893 A1 describes electro-active polymer converters, which convert electrical energy into mechanical energy and vice versa
Implementation Method 3
an active material (1; 2), in particular a shape memory alloy, a shape memory polymer, an electro-active polymer, a magnetorheological elastomer or a piezoelectric crystal
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to a system for adapting at least one component of a vehicle. The vehicle component is operatively connected to an active material or formed from the active material. The active material is capable of changing at least one property in response to an activation signal. The activation signal is determined by at least one biometric variable of a vehicle occupant. Furthermore, the disclosure relates to a method for adapting a component of a vehicle.