Dynamic Upfitter Switch Assignment for Multi-Function Vehicle Controls
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current upfitter switch configurations require a one-to-one relationship between switches and vehicle systems, leading to a large number of switches for multi-purpose vehicles performing various functions, which can be cumbersome and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A dynamic configuration system for upfitter switches that allows at least two vehicle features to be controlled by a single switch, with a processor determining trigger states to reassign switch control between features in response to changing conditions or tasks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a one-to-one configuration is used between upfitter switches and vehicle systems, then direct control and user understanding are improved, but the number of switches increases significantly for multi-purpose vehicles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a many-to-one mapping where multiple vehicle systems share a single upfitter switch. The processor dynamically assigns different systems to the same switch based on current vehicle conditions and operational context, allowing one switch to control multiple functions at different times rather than requiring dedicated switches for each system
Solution Approach 2:
The switch configuration is made dynamic through continuous monitoring of vehicle conditions by the processor. The system automatically reassigns which system is controlled by which switch based on real-time data, allowing the control relationships to adapt flexibly to changing operational requirements without manual reconfiguration
2Ease of operation
If multiple switches are installed for each vehicle system, then ease of remembering switch functions is improved, but vehicle complexity and installation requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables a limited set of physical switches to serve multiple vehicle systems through dynamic assignment. Instead of installing numerous dedicated switches, the same physical switch can be assigned to control different systems depending on which systems are currently active or most relevant to the vehicle's operational state
Solution Approach 2:
The processor continuously monitors vehicle conditions and uses this feedback to dynamically determine which system should be assigned to which switch. This feedback mechanism ensures that the switch assignments remain optimized for current operational needs, maintaining ease of operation while adapting to changing vehicle configurations and tasks
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes one or more upfitter switches and a plurality of controllable vehicle features, wherein at least two of the features are controllable by a first of the upfitter switches, based on a dynamic configuration of the first upfitter switch. The system also includes a processor that can determine that a trigger state for reconfiguring the first upfitter switch has occurred and re-assign the first upfitter switch from controlling a first of the at least two features to controlling a second of the at least two features, responsive to the trigger state.