Automatic Wheel Positioning for Parked Vehicles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vehicle parking systems require manual intervention to position wheels on a slope, which can lead to accidents due to driver forgetfulness or lack of awareness, and do not automatically align wheels for aesthetic purposes after parking.
Innovation Solution
An automatic wheel positioning system using an electric power-assisted steering system with a controller that identifies a parked state and either receives manual input or automatically positions the wheels towards a detected curb to prevent rolling and align for aesthetic appeal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual wheel positioning is required for parking on slopes, then driver control and awareness are maintained, but driver forgetfulness or lack of awareness can lead to accidents and vehicle damage
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service by automatically detecting when the vehicle is parked and autonomously positioning the wheels in the safe direction (toward the curb) without requiring driver intervention. The controller monitors parking state and steering system commands, automatically executing wheel positioning to eliminate reliance on driver memory or awareness.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring the parking state and wheel position, then adjusting wheel orientation automatically based on this feedback. When the vehicle is detected as parked, the system receives feedback about the parking condition and automatically positions the wheels accordingly, creating a closed-loop control system that ensures safety without driver input.
2Reliability
If automatic wheel positioning is implemented, then wheel positioning reliability is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system achieves multi-functionality by using the existing steering system and controller for multiple purposes: normal steering control during driving, automatic wheel positioning when parked, and curb detection. This universal approach allows the same hardware components to serve both driving and parking safety functions, avoiding the need for separate dedicated systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller acts as an intermediary between the steering system and the parking state detection, mediating the automatic wheel positioning function. It receives signals from the parking state detection, processes the information, and sends appropriate commands to the steering system, simplifying the overall system architecture by using an existing control unit rather than adding a completely separate system.
3Reliability
If wheels are positioned toward the curb automatically, then safety against rolling is enhanced, but aesthetic wheel alignment is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies dynamics by making the wheel position adjustable rather than fixed. It can dynamically change the wheel orientation based on the parking situation - positioning wheels toward the curb for safety during parking, and allowing restoration to aesthetic positions after parking. This dynamic adaptability resolves the contradiction between safety and appearance by allowing the system to optimize for each specific requirement.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary action by automatically positioning the wheels in the safe direction (toward the curb) before the driver needs to use the vehicle again. This preliminary wheel positioning ensures safety is established first, and then the driver can manually adjust the wheels to aesthetic positions if needed, separating the safety function from the aesthetic function in time.
4Ease of operation
If manual wheel turning is required for aesthetic purposes, then driver control is maintained, but driver time and effort are consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service by automatically performing the wheel positioning function that would otherwise require manual driver intervention. After parking, the system can automatically restore wheels to aesthetic positions or maintain them in safe positions, eliminating the need for the driver to spend time manually adjusting the steering wheel or front wheels.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for automatically angularly positioning wheels of an automotive vehicle after parking. The system disclosed here includes a power-assisted steering system coupled to the wheels. Further, the system includes a controller, coupled to the steering system, which is configured to automatically position the wheels in a desired direction, based on a determination that the vehicle is parked.