Force-Sensing Vehicle Remote Control With Seamless Input Surface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing remote controls for vehicles lack flexibility in functionality and design, relying on discrete push buttons and limited functionality due to their structural design, which restricts the expansion of control options and user interaction.
Innovation Solution
A remote control with a deformable support surface equipped with force sensors, a processor to interpret force inputs, and a communication module to emit electromagnetic signals, allowing for continuous surface interaction and expanded functionality without traditional buttons, along with optional features like motion detection and haptic feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional push buttons are used in remote controls, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the functionality is limited and design flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes traditional discrete push buttons from the remote control structure and replaces them with a force sensor integrated into a deformable support surface. This extraction of the button element allows the surface to be continuous and seamless while maintaining input functionality through force detection at different locations or patterns on the surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The deformable support surface with integrated force sensor serves multiple functions: it acts as both the structural support element and the input detection mechanism. The continuous surface can detect different input locations, forces, and patterns to trigger various commands, providing multi-functionality without requiring separate buttons for each function.
2Shape
If discrete push buttons are used, then manufacturing is easier, but the external surface cannot extend continuously over the entire remote control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the support surface structure with the input detection function by integrating the force sensor into the deformable support surface itself. This combination eliminates the need for separate button components and allows the external surface to extend continuously across the entire remote control while maintaining input capability through force detection on the seamless surface.
3Adaptability or versatility
If force sensors are used instead of push buttons, then functionality expands and design flexibility increases, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical push button system with a force sensor-based detection system. Instead of using discrete mechanical buttons that physically press switches, the continuous deformable surface with integrated force sensor detects input through mechanical force measurement, enabling more versatile functionality while reducing mechanical complexity.
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
Enables enhanced user interaction and expanded vehicle control functionalities, such as continuous surface interaction and flexible configuration, while maintaining a seamless design without material interruptions, improving user experience and operational flexibility.
Implementation Method 1
at least one force sensor coupled to the outer casing so as to measure a force exerted on the support surface
Implementation Method 2
a communication module designed to emit an electromagnetic signal associated with the determined command
Implementation Method 3
an elastomer block interposed between the force sensor and the outer casing
Data Source
Figure 1~4
AI summary
A vehicle remote control (1) comprises: - an outer casing (2) defining a deformable support surface (S); - at least one force sensor (30; 40) coupled to the outer casing (2) so as to measure a force exerted on the support surface (S); - a processor (22) designed to determine a force exerted on an area (Z1; Z2; Z3) of the support surface as a function of the measured force and to determine a command to be issued as a function of the determined force; and - a communication module (24) designed to emit an electromagnetic signal associated with the determined command.