Motor Vehicle Control Knob With Switchable Haptic Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current motor vehicle control knobs are unable to efficiently manage both closed-loop and open-loop systems with a single interface, leading to increased dimensions and user distraction, and lack distinct touch-related feedback for precise adjustments.
Innovation Solution
A control knob design featuring a rotor and support assembly with interchangeable configurations, utilizing springs and toothing for tactile feedback, and an actuator that adjusts based on user input to accommodate both closed-loop and open-loop systems, providing distinct touch sensations for each mode.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If separate control knobs are used for closed-loop and open-loop systems, then each system can be controlled precisely, but the overall device dimensions increase and user distraction risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control knob is designed to perform multiple functions by integrating support for both closed-loop and open-loop control systems into a single device. The knob can operate in two distinct modes: with haptic feedback for closed-loop control and without haptic feedback for open-loop control, eliminating the need for separate control devices while maintaining precise control capabilities for both system types
Solution Approach 2:
The control knob incorporates dynamic characteristics through its haptic feedback mechanism that can be selectively activated or deactivated. The actuator dynamically adjusts the mechanical impedance to provide tactile feedback during closed-loop operation, while allowing smooth rotation during open-loop operation, enabling the same physical device to adapt its behavior based on the control mode required
2Device complexity
If a single control knob is used for both closed-loop and open-loop systems, then device dimensions are reduced, but distinct touch-related feedback is needed to differentiate between control modes
Solution Approach 1:
The control knob applies different local qualities to the same rotational interface by modifying the haptic feedback characteristics. During closed-loop control, the actuator engages to provide discrete tactile feedback at specific angular positions, while during open-loop control, the haptic feedback is disengaged allowing continuous smooth rotation. This local differentiation in feedback quality enables users to distinguish between control modes through touch alone
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses tactile feedback as an analog to color changes, where the haptic characteristics of the control knob change to indicate different operational modes. The actuator modifies the mechanical impedance to create distinct tactile sensations - providing resistance and discrete feedback positions for closed-loop mode, and minimal resistance for open-loop mode - allowing users to immediately recognize the current control mode through touch feedback
3Measurement precision
If haptic feedback is provided for closed-loop control, then adjustment precision is improved, but the control mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator is integrated within the existing control knob structure, with the spring mechanism nested between the rotor and support. The actuator components are housed within the rotor assembly, and the spring is positioned in the radial clearance space between the rotor and support, allowing the haptic feedback mechanism to be compactly incorporated without significantly increasing overall device dimensions or external complexity
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 solution allows for the adjustment of both closed-loop and open-loop systems with a single knob, reducing overall size and user distraction through distinct tactile feedback, enhancing comfort control within the vehicle while maintaining intuitive operation.
Implementation Method 1
a spring arranged in a radial direction between the rotor and the support
Implementation Method 2
an actuator arranged between the rotor and the support
Data Source
AI summary
A control knob for a motor vehicle is described, the former comprising a rotor that can rotate around an axis; a fixed body; a member; and an actuator selectively movable between a first configuration, in which it allows said rotor and said member to rotate relative to the body around the axis, and a second configuration, in which it exerts a braking torque upon the member; a first element and a second element interacting with one another, in a snapping manner, in a plurality of consecutive positions, when the actuator is arranged in the first configuration, so as to provide a first touch-related feedback; the knob comprises a third element, a profile extending crosswise to the third element; and a fourth elastic element connecting the third element and the profile to said rotor; the third element, the fourth elastic element and the profile can rotate together with the rotor and the member in an integral manner, when the actuator is arranged in the first configuration; the third element slides on the profile to provide a single second touch-related feedback, when the actuator is arranged in said second configuration.