External Rotary Controller With Shortcut Modes for Low-Distraction Driving
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicles lack an additional controlling device for seamless and less distracting interaction with various functions, requiring multiple steps and diverting the driver's attention from the road.
Innovation Solution
An external control device with a rotary encoder, display, and shortcut buttons that can be connected to a vehicle's central control unit, allowing for easy access to vehicle functions through two modes: Home Menu and Function Mode, enabling intuitive control without eye diversion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If vehicle functions are controlled through touchscreen or multi-step processes, then comprehensive control capability is achieved, but driver attention is diverted from the road
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into two distinct modes: Home Menu Mode for function selection and Function Mode for parameter adjustment. This segmentation allows the rotary encoder to provide different control experiences based on the current mode, enabling quick function activation while maintaining comprehensive control capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The control device dynamically switches between two operational modes based on user interaction. In Home Menu Mode, the system prioritizes quick function selection; when a function is activated, it transitions to Function Mode for detailed parameter control. This dynamic behavior optimizes both response speed and control precision
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing rotary controllers are integrated into the central console, then control functionality is provided, but the functionality is very limited and cannot be customized
Solution Approach 1:
The rotary encoder serves multiple functions depending on the operational mode: in Home Menu Mode, it cycles through available functions for selection; in Function Mode, it adjusts parameters of the selected function. This multi-functionality allows a single simple component to provide both function selection and parameter control capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The control device acts as an intermediary between the driver and the vehicle's central control unit. It translates simple rotary movements and button presses into comprehensive control commands, bridging the gap between simple physical interaction and complex vehicle system control
3Measurement precision
If multiple steps are required to execute basic functions, then precise control is achieved, but the process steals driver's attention from the road
Solution Approach 1:
The system prepares for precise control by first selecting the function in Home Menu Mode, then transitioning to Function Mode where parameter adjustment is available. This preliminary selection process organizes the control sequence, allowing the driver to access precise control only when needed while maintaining quick access to common functions
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The invention relates to an external control device configured for interaction with a modem vehicle and activation of different functions in a non-distracting manner, and to a system comprising such external control device. It specifies particularly how a new combination of already existing user interface methods and devices can be used to improve the user experience. The external control device according the invention comprises a housing (1) with at least one rotary encoder (5), at least one display (6), at least one shortcut button (1, 2, 3, 4), a control unit with a control logic module, a power module. Each shortcut button (1, 2, 3, 4) activates a pre-configured feature of the vehicle when pressed. Once a feature is selected by a shortcut button, the rotary encoder (5) allows the user to adjust the selected feature by clockwise and counterclockwise rotation.