Display Vehicle Switch Layout for Safer Multi-Function Control

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing vehicle switches connected to the steering wheel require replacement when vehicle models change or software is updated, and complex display type switches can compromise driver safety while operating.

Innovation Solution

An apparatus and method for continuously updating symbols on a display type vehicle switch, including a controller to manage symbols based on interface information, and a selection device allowing easy symbol selection even while driving.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a display type switch with multiple symbols is provided to correspond to all vehicle functions, then the switch can cover more functions, but the switch becomes large in size and complicated in structure

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefunction coverageVSAvoidswitch structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The switch is divided into a first switch portion and a second switch portion, where the first portion displays and selects main function symbols, while the second portion displays and selects sub-function symbols. This segmentation allows comprehensive function coverage while keeping each switch portion compact and simple in structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If a display type switch with multiple symbols is provided to correspond to all vehicle functions, then the switch can cover more functions, but the size of the switch increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefunction coverageVSAvoidswitch size

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The switch is divided into a first switch portion and a second switch portion, where the first portion displays and selects main function symbols, while the second portion displays and selects sub-function symbols. This segmentation allows comprehensive function coverage while keeping each switch portion compact and simple in structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

3Adaptability or versatility

If the switch operation requires complex operations to select symbols, then more functions can be controlled, but driver safety is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefunction controlVSAvoiddriver safety

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The switch is divided into a first switch portion and a second switch portion, where the first portion displays and selects main function symbols, while the second portion displays and selects sub-function symbols. This segmentation allows comprehensive function coverage while keeping each switch portion compact and simple in structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The switch provides visual feedback by displaying symbols on the display unit, allowing the driver to see the current function and selected options. This feedback mechanism enables intuitive operation without requiring complex learning or multiple steps, thereby maintaining driver safety while providing comprehensive function control.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS12221187B2Apparatus for operating display type vehicle switch, and method thereof

Publication Date: 2025.02.11 HYUNDAI MOTOR CO LTD

AI summary

An apparatus for operating a display type vehicle switch includes a controller that controls one or more symbols related to a function of a vehicle to be displayed on a display, the display that displays the one or more symbols, and a selection device that selects at least one of the one or more symbols displayed on the display.