Autonomous Vehicle Interior Layout for Modular Comfort and Access

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Solution Overview

Problem

Autonomous vehicles lack innovative interior configurations that enhance passenger comfort and convenience, as they do not require manual inputs for steering and braking, allowing for features that promote comfort and convenience without the need for traditional control systems.

Innovation Solution

The vehicle incorporates modular interiors, a 'periscope' feature for augmented reality, a floating display, pop-up sensors, notched sides for easier ingress and egress, a patterned sunroof, inductive charging surfaces, and adjustable seating to provide an immersive experience and practical functionality.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Extent of automation

If traditional control systems are removed for autonomous operation, then automation extent is improved, but interior configuration innovation is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveautonomous operationVSAvoidinterior configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The interior is divided into modular components including adjustable seating units, removable tables, and reconfigurable storage compartments. Each module can be independently positioned or removed to create different spatial arrangements, enabling the interior to adapt to various operational modes and passenger needs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The interior features dynamically adjustable elements such as electronically controlled seating positions, height-adjustable tables, and motorized window shades. These components can automatically reconfigure based on detected passenger preferences or operational requirements, transforming the static interior into an adaptive environment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of operation

If modular interiors and adjustable features are added, then passenger comfort is improved, but device complexity is increased

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepassenger comfortVSAvoidinterior configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Interior components are designed with multiple functions: seats incorporate adjustable lumbar support, integrated armrests with storage, and recline capabilities; tables provide surfaces for work, dining, or entertainment while offering adjustable heights and foldable designs. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, managing complexity while enhancing comfort.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The interior system includes sensors and control algorithms that automatically detect passenger preferences and adjust seating positions, temperature controls, and lighting without requiring manual input. The system self-regulates to maintain optimal comfort conditions, reducing the operational complexity for passengers.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Ease of operation

If notched sides and easier ingress features are implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements are increased

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveingress and egressVSAvoidnotched sides
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The notched side panels and ingress features are pre-formed during the vehicle manufacturing process using precision molding techniques. The notches are integrated into the structural design of the vehicle body, allowing for easy passenger entry and exit while maintaining structural integrity. This preliminary formation approach ensures consistent precision across production batches.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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

These features enhance passenger comfort and convenience by offering an immersive experience, easy access, and practical functionality without the need for traditional control systems, making autonomous vehicle travel more enjoyable and efficient.

Implementation Method 1

inductive charging surfaces

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectInductive charging: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS11873043B1Various interior and exterior features for autonomous vehicles
Publication Date: 2024.01.16 WAYMO LLC
  • US11873043B1 patent drawing
  • US11873043B1 patent drawing
  • US11873043B1 patent drawing

AI summary

Because of the nature of autonomous vehicles, and in particular that they do not require manual inputs from a driver or passenger to control braking and steering, autonomous vehicle can include features that may not necessarily be useful or practical in a typical non-autonomous (or semi-autonomous vehicle) that would require such manual input.