External Step-Handle HMI for Low-Speed Pickup Truck Movement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional pickup trucks require users to enter and exit the vehicle frequently to move it short distances, which is time-consuming and can result in cargo contamination, especially when unloading materials like dirt.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle equipped with a human machine interface (HMI) on the exterior, such as a step handle with a sensor, allows users to control the vehicle's movement from outside by inputting force or pressure, which triggers a signal to command torque to the powerplant, enabling propulsion without entering the cabin.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a user enters the vehicle cabin to control movement, then the vehicle can be propelled, but the user must repeatedly enter and exit which is time-consuming and can contaminate cargo
Solution Approach 1:
An external HMI interface is introduced as an intermediary between the user and the vehicle's powerplant. The HMI, mounted on the exterior of the vehicle body, allows the user to input propulsion commands without entering the cabin. The controller receives signals from the external HMI and commands the powerplant accordingly, eliminating the need for the user to enter and exit the vehicle repeatedly.
2Ease of operation
If a user enters the vehicle cabin to control movement, then the vehicle can be propelled, but cargo may become contaminated from user contact
Solution Approach 1:
The external HMI serves as a mediator that separates the user from the vehicle cabin and cargo area. By mounting the HMI on the exterior surface of the vehicle body, the user can operate the vehicle without physical contact with the cabin interior or cargo, thereby preventing contamination.
3Reliability
If traditional controls are used inside the cabin, then the vehicle can be propelled, but the user must be inside the cabin which limits mobility for short distances
Solution Approach 1:
The external HMI extends the vehicle's control capability to the exterior, allowing the user to operate the vehicle from various positions around it. This maintains reliable propulsion control while significantly increasing user mobility and adaptability for short-distance maneuvers.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This external driving mode allows for efficient, low-speed movement of the vehicle without entering the cabin, reducing time and preventing cargo contamination, enabling users to easily maneuver the vehicle for short distances while keeping their hands dirty and maintaining cleanliness inside the passenger compartment.
Implementation Method 1
The handle has a sensor configured to receive input from a user located outside of the passenger cabin and output a signal when the input is active
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle includes a powerplant and a body. The body defines a passenger cabin and a box and having a tailgate mounted to the box. A step assembly is associated with the box and includes a step and a handle. The handle has a sensor configured to receive input from a user located outside of the passenger cabin and output a signal when the input is active. A controller is programmed to, in response to the signal being received, command a torque to the powerplant to propel the vehicle based on the signal.