Steering-Column Blinker Module With Auto-Cancel Accessory Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Offroad vehicles, particularly UTVs, lack a mechanism for drivers to control aftermarket accessories without removing their hands from the steering wheel and do not have suitable blinker light controllers that can automatically terminate the blinker after a turn is completed.
Innovation Solution
A steering column mountable blinker module with a lever and electronic components that allows drivers to control accessories and automatically shuts off the blinker after a turn, featuring a housing, movable lever, switches, LEDs, and a wire opening for electrical connection to external signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If aftermarket switch controllers are mounted on the dash or frame column, then accessories can be controlled, but the driver must remove hands from the steering wheel area
Solution Approach 1:
The patent moves the control mechanism from traditional 2D dashboard mounting to a 3D steering column integration, allowing the lever to extend from the steering column housing into the driver's natural reach zone without requiring dashboard space or frame column mounting
2Ease of operation
If a steering column mounted blinker module is implemented, then hands can remain on the steering wheel, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The blinker module is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as both a traditional blinker controller and an accessory control system with four programmable switches, eliminating the need for separate control devices and reducing overall system complexity despite the integrated design
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the blinker control lever with accessory control switches and indicator LEDs into a single housing unit mounted on the steering column, merging multiple control functions into one integrated device that reduces the number of separate components needed
3Extent of automation
If traditional blinker controllers are used, then blinker lights can be controlled, but automatic termination after turn completion is not available
Solution Approach 1:
The blinker module incorporates automatic feedback mechanisms that detect when a turn is completed and automatically terminate the blinker signal, using the vehicle's existing turn signal cancellation mechanism to trigger the auto-termination function without requiring additional driver input
4Ease of operation
If dashboard-mounted controls are used, then accessories can be controlled, but the driver must reach away from the driver command center
Solution Approach 1:
The control system transitions from 2D dashboard surface mounting to 3D steering column integration, positioning the lever and switches in the vertical dimension along the steering column where they fall naturally within the driver's reach zone without requiring lateral hand movement
Data Source
AI summary
A blinker module and a blinker kit, wherein the blinker module is attachable to a vehicle to control external turn signals. The blinker module has a lever and a plurality of switches to control external turn signals and other accessories, respectively.