Driver Assistance Control Interface With Multi-Mode Single Knob
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complexity of existing driver assistance systems in vehicles, with numerous controls for adjusting levels of support, can lead to driver confusion and distraction due to the overwhelming number of options for setting assistance functions, particularly around the steering wheel.
Innovation Solution
An operating device with a first operating element that can be moved into discrete positions to adjust the level of driver assistance, allowing for different operating modes such as sliding or rotary controls, enabling the driver to simplify the operation by combining level adjustments with additional vehicle settings like target speed or driving modes, and activating autonomous driving or deactivating driving stability control systems through distinct operating modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate controls are provided for adjusting driver assistance levels and additional functions, then the system provides comprehensive control options, but the vehicle cockpit becomes overloaded and confusing for the driver
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple control functions into a single operating element (such as a rotary dial or touch control). This single element can adjust driver assistance levels, set target speeds, select driving modes, and activate autonomous driving functions, thereby reducing the number of controls in the vehicle cockpit while maintaining comprehensive adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The operating element is designed with multi-functionality, allowing it to perform various control tasks depending on the operating mode. By switching between different operating modes (e.g., first operating mode for assistance levels, second operating mode for target speed), a single element replaces multiple specialized controls.
2Device complexity
If a single operating element is used for multiple functions, then the vehicle cockpit is simplified, but the driver may inadvertently activate wrong functions due to mode switching
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs distinct periodic operating modes with clear differentiation. Each mode has its own activation sequence and response pattern, allowing the system to distinguish between intentional mode-specific actions and accidental inputs. The periodic nature of mode switching creates predictable patterns that reduce erroneous activations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides feedback to the driver about the current operating mode and the effect of control inputs. This feedback mechanism helps the driver understand which function is currently active and what action will be taken, thereby preventing inadvertent mode activations while maintaining a simplified control interface.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an operating device for specifying, by the driver, the degree of assistance for the driver provided by vehicle driver assistance. The operating device according to the invention comprises a first operating element which can be moved into different positions in a first operating mode, wherein the individual positions of the first operating element are each assigned to different degrees of assistance. A first operating device according to the invention is characterized by the fact that the same first operating element can be actuated in at least one of the positions in an operating mode that differs from the first operating mode in order to adjust the vehicle. A second operating device according to the invention is characterized by the fact that the first operating element can be actuated in that position which is assigned to the highest degree of assistance of the different degrees of assistance in an operating mode that differs from the first operating mode without changing this position in order to activate an autonomous driving mode.