Detachable Knob With Electromagnets For Vehicle Function Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

The complexity of vehicle control systems with large displays and numerous functions requires a more intuitive method for users to control various vehicle functions, especially in autonomous vehicles where drivers are not needed, and existing systems like CCP-based tree menus and speech recognition are cumbersome.

Innovation Solution

A vehicle function control apparatus and method using a detachable knob with magnets and electromagnets that automatically moves to different attachment positions, providing tactile feedback and simplifying the control of multiple functions through a rotatable dial and touch-sensitive interface.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a CCP-based tree menu structure is used to control vehicle functions, then various functions can be controlled systematically, but the manipulation steps become large in number and complicated

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunction control capabilityVSAvoidmanipulation steps
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The attachment unit is divided into multiple attachment positions arranged in a specific pattern, allowing the detachable knob to be placed at different locations to access different functions or control modes, thereby reducing the depth of menu navigation required

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically changes the functional configuration based on the position of the detachable knob. When the knob is attached at different positions, the control unit activates different function sets, enabling users to switch between complex and simplified control modes depending on their needs

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of operation

If speech recognition function is used to control vehicle functions, then manipulation steps are relatively simple, but the frequency of use is considerably reduced when there is a passenger

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanipulation stepsVSAvoidusage frequency with passenger
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The detachable knob serves as a physical intermediary between the user and the vehicle's control system. It provides tactile feedback and mechanical engagement that speech recognition lacks, making it more suitable for use in environments with passengers while maintaining simple manipulation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Area of stationary object

If the display size is increased to show more information, then more functions can be displayed simultaneously, but the complexity of the manipulation system increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedisplay sizeVSAvoidmanipulation system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Different attachment positions on the attachment unit are assigned different functional qualities. Each position corresponds to specific control functions or modes, allowing users to quickly access desired functions by placing the knob at the appropriate position rather than navigating through complex menus on the large display

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

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

Enhances user convenience and intuitive control of vehicle functions by reducing the need for visual confirmation and simplifying the manipulation process, allowing for easy switching between different functions and improving usability, especially in autonomous driving scenarios.

Implementation Method 1

controlling a plurality of electromagnets disposed so as to correspond to the plurality of attachment positions such that the detachable knob is moved from the sensed position to the target attachment position

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic force: Electromagnet

Data Source

PatentUS11345238B2Vehicle function control apparatus and method using a detachable knob
Publication Date: 2022.05.31 HYUNDAI MOTOR CO LTD
  • US11345238B2 patent drawing
  • US11345238B2 patent drawing
  • US11345238B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A vehicle function control apparatus and method use a detachable knob. The vehicle function control method includes determining, by an integrated manipulation unit, a target attachment position on an attachment unit having a plurality of attachment positions, sensing the position of a detachable knob having at least one magnet and a manipulation means on the attachment unit, and controlling a plurality of electromagnets disposed so as to correspond to the plurality of attachment positions such that the detachable knob is moved from the sensed position to the target attachment position, among the plurality of attachment positions.