EV Virtual Cockpit Controls for ICE-Style Sensory Replication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electric vehicles lack sensory feedback and customizable controls that replicate the driving experience of traditional internal-combustion-engine vehicles, leading to a less engaging driving experience for enthusiasts.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that replicates the audio/visual cues of performance internal-combustion-engine vehicles through a graphical user interface, using virtual indicators and holographic displays, and integrates with the vehicle's ECUs to simulate the driving experience of specific ICE models, allowing for customizable and immersive control adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If EVs use electronic controls without physical connections, then vehicle efficiency and reliability are improved, but driver sensory feedback and engagement are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates virtual replicas of ICE vehicle controls and instruments through software algorithms. The system copies the visual appearance, layout, and operational characteristics of traditional gauges, switches, and controls, presenting them through digital displays and projected images. This allows EV drivers to interact with familiar interfaces while maintaining electronic control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical control systems with electronic alternatives. Physical connections between controls and vehicle systems are substituted with electronic signals processed through algorithms. The mechanical feedback traditionally provided by physical controls is replaced with visual and digital interface elements that respond to driver inputs.
2Adaptability or versatility
If EVs implement customizable virtual controls, then driver experience and engagement are improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal control interface that can replicate multiple different vehicle types and eras through software configuration. A single ECU system can generate various virtual instrument clusters, control layouts, and interface styles by loading different algorithms, eliminating the need for separate hardware systems for each control type.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses algorithmic parameters to dynamically adjust virtual control characteristics. By modifying software parameters such as gauge styles, layout configurations, color schemes, and response characteristics, the system provides extensive customization without adding physical components. The virtual controls can be reconfigured through code changes rather than hardware modifications.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus enables modifying the electronic controls of EVs to mimic the sensory experience of driving a performance ICE car. The method and apparatus creates a sensory “virtual cockpit” with both electronic and mechanical enhancements for a sensory experience. By downloading and implementing the method and apparatus, one may replicate, for example, the various gauges of an ICE vehicle to mimic the visual experience of driving various ICE classic cars. In another embodiment, a 3D-rendered image of the exterior of an ICE performance vehicle is displayed on LCD surface on electric vehicle body panels.