Automotive Glass Control Element with Integrated Haptic Structures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motor vehicle control elements, such as touchscreens and touchpads, face challenges in maintaining mechanical strength and durability due to mechanical processing for haptic structures, which can lead to structural weakness and costly repairs, while also requiring driver attention during operation.
Innovation Solution
A glass-based user interface with integrated one-piece surface structure elements created through deep-drawing in a heated state, providing enhanced scratch and abrasion resistance without the need for machining, and allowing for customizable haptic designs to aid driver operation without visual distraction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If mechanical processing (lapping, sandblasting) is applied to create haptic structures on ceramic surfaces, then haptic feedback is provided to users, but the structural integrity is weakened and the control element becomes prone to breaking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical processing methods (lapping, sandblasting) with a chemical etching process using fluorinated compounds. This substitution allows haptic structures to be created without mechanically compromising the ceramic surface, thereby maintaining structural integrity while providing the necessary tactile feedback for user operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the material parameter by using chemically resistant ceramic materials and controlling the etching process parameters (fluorinated compound concentration, temperature, exposure time) to create haptic structures without removing excessive material. This ensures that the haptic features are formed while preserving the underlying structural strength of the control element
2Ease of operation
If mechanical processing is used to create surface structures, then haptic feedback is achieved, but the control element requires expensive repairs when damaged
Solution Approach 1:
By replacing mechanical processing with chemical etching, the patent creates haptic structures that do not compromise the structural integrity of the control element. This prevents the weakening that leads to breakage and expensive repairs, while still providing the necessary haptic feedback for operation
3Strength
If the control element uses flat surfaces without structures, then mechanical strength is maintained, but the driver cannot easily identify control areas without visual attention
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating haptic structures only in specific areas where user interaction is needed, while leaving other areas smooth. This allows the driver to easily identify and operate control areas through tactile feedback without compromising the overall mechanical strength of the control element
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses optical contrast (analogous to color changes) by creating surface structures that reflect or absorb light differently, making control areas visually distinguishable while maintaining mechanical strength through the use of chemically etched rather than mechanically removed material
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
The solution results in a durable, cost-effective, and visually appealing control element that maintains mechanical strength, allowing drivers to operate controls haptically without diverting attention from the road, while also enhancing the user experience through customizable surface structures.
Implementation Method 1
the sheet is then brought into the desired shape in the softened state
Implementation Method 2
heated above its softening point in a corresponding tool
Implementation Method 3
and hardened again by cooling
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The invention relates to a control element (10) for a motor vehicle, comprising a control surface (14) for the input of user instructions for a component of the motor vehicle, which control surface comprises at least one surface structure element (20, 22) that can be identified by touch by a user, wherein the control surface (14) is made of glass and the at least one surface structure element (20, 22) is integral with the control surface (14).