Automotive Manual Operation Device with Dynamic Force Pattern
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing manual operation devices for automotive vehicles are uncomfortable for users when switching between vehicles or instruments, as they require adaptation to different friction forces and lack feedback on operation correctness, leading to incorrect instrument selection and operation.
Innovation Solution
A manual operation device with an operating portion, actuator, detection portion, memorizing portion, and control portion that applies a customizable force pattern based on user preference, detected operation position, and instrument control data, allowing users to memorize and apply preferred force patterns for comfortable operation across different vehicles and instruments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a fixed friction force is applied to the manual operation device, then the operation provides consistent tactile feedback, but different users experience discomfort due to varying personal preferences
Solution Approach 1:
The manual operation device transitions from a fixed friction force mechanism to a dynamic system that can adjust friction force levels. The control unit receives operation signals and adjusts the friction force applied by the actuator based on these signals, enabling the system to adapt to different user preferences and operational contexts rather than maintaining a static friction level.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the friction force parameter dynamically during operation. By controlling the actuator to apply variable friction force based on operation signals, the device can modify its tactile characteristics to match different user preferences and instrument requirements, resolving the contradiction between consistent feedback and adaptability.
2Ease of operation
If the friction force is adjusted to match one user's preference, then that user experiences comfortable operation, but other users or the same user in different vehicles feel discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The manual operation device uses dynamic adjustment of friction force through the actuator and control unit. This allows the system to adapt to different users and vehicles by changing the friction characteristics in real-time, rather than being fixed for a single user-vehicle combination.
Solution Approach 2:
The system achieves universal compatibility across different users and vehicles by implementing a controllable friction mechanism. The actuator and control unit work together to provide friction force adjustment that can accommodate various user preferences and instrument types, making the device universally adaptable rather than user-specific.
3Reliability
If the manual operation device applies strong friction force to prevent incorrect operations, then operation accuracy improves, but operation effort increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit applies friction force periodically or selectively during operation based on received signals. Rather than maintaining constant high friction, the system adjusts friction force dynamically, applying it when needed to prevent incorrect operations and reducing it during normal operation to minimize effort requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The friction force parameter is changed dynamically during operation. The control unit adjusts the friction level based on operation signals, providing high friction only when necessary for accuracy while maintaining lower friction during routine operations, thus balancing reliability with operational ease.
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
The device reduces user discomfort by allowing the customization of force patterns, ensuring accurate instrument selection and operation, and providing feedback to prevent incorrect operations, thus enhancing usability and reducing the feeling of unfamiliarity when switching vehicles or instruments.
Implementation Method 1
an actuator as a power source for applying a force to the operating portion
Implementation Method 2
a detection portion for detecting an operation position of the operating portion
Data Source
AI summary
A manual operation device for controlling an instrument mounted on an automotive vehicle includes: an operating portion to be operated manually; an actuator for applying a force to the operating portion; a detection portion for detecting an operation position of the operating portion; a memorizing element for memorizing a force pattern; a receiving element for receiving the force pattern from an external device and for memorizing the force pattern in the memorizing portion; and a control element for reading out the force pattern memorized in the memorizing portion, for outputting the control data to the actuator on the basis of the read out force pattern and the operation position of the operating portion detected by the detection portion, and for outputting the operation signal to the instrument.