Hand Control Device Tool-Free Steering Column Mounting

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing hand-operated vehicle acceleration and brake systems for handicapped drivers are difficult and time-consuming to install, often requiring skilled mechanics and altering vehicle cabin structures, and lack a quick and safe solution for simultaneous braking and acceleration.

Innovation Solution

A driving control device with a brake bar and handle bar that includes a locking mechanism allowing tool-free attachment to the steering column or nearby, using a rod and hole configuration with releasable protrusions for quick and easy mounting, enabling attachment without tools and without modifying the vehicle's structure.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional hand-operated driving control systems are installed using conventional methods, then the system provides reliable acceleration and brake control, but the installation process becomes time-consuming and requires skilled mechanics

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecontrol reliabilityVSAvoidinstallation time

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting piece is divided into separate components: a first part that attaches to the steering column and a second part that attaches to the handle bar. These segments can be independently positioned and connected, allowing for flexible installation without requiring complex alignment procedures. The segmentation enables the system to be installed quickly by simply connecting the two parts together rather than requiring precise mounting of a single complex component.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The mounting piece acts as an intermediary component between the handle bar and the steering column. This intermediate element simplifies the connection process by providing standardized attachment points on both sides, eliminating the need for direct complex integration between the control system and vehicle structure. The intermediary mounting piece can be easily attached to either surface, facilitating quick installation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If conventional mounting methods are used to attach the driving control device, then secure attachment is achieved, but the installation requires altering vehicle cabin structures

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveattachment securityVSAvoidinstallation simplicity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting piece is divided into separate components: a first part that attaches to the steering column and a second part that attaches to the handle bar. These segments can be independently positioned and connected, allowing for flexible installation without requiring complex alignment procedures. The segmentation enables the system to be installed quickly by simply connecting the two parts together rather than requiring precise mounting of a single complex component.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The mounting piece is designed with universal applicability to fit various vehicle types and steering column configurations. The first part can be attached to different surfaces (steering column or alternative mounting surfaces) using adaptable attachment mechanisms, making the system versatile across different vehicle models without requiring vehicle-specific modifications or custom fabrication.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If the attachment means uses complex locking mechanisms, then secure attachment is ensured, but tool-free attachment becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveattachment securityVSAvoidattachment ease

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting piece acts as an intermediary component between the handle bar and the steering column. This intermediate element simplifies the connection process by providing standardized attachment points on both sides, eliminating the need for direct complex integration between the control system and vehicle structure. The intermediary mounting piece can be easily attached to either surface, facilitating quick installation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The attachment mechanism is designed to be self-servicing, allowing the user to attach and detach the mounting piece without requiring external tools or assistance. The first and second parts of the mounting piece incorporate features that enable direct manual connection and disconnection, making the installation and removal process simple and tool-free while maintaining secure attachment during use.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS9969401B2Clickable hand control device in a vehicle

Publication Date: 2018.05.15 AUTOMAX APS

AI summary

There is provided a hand operable device for handicapped persons driving a car. More particularly, there is provided a hand operated device for actuating vehicle acceleration and brake pedals. The device includes a brake bar having in a first end attaching means for attachment to a brake pedal of the vehicle, said brake bar having in a second end a joint to a handle bar for transversely supporting the brake bar. The handle bar is provided with means for electronically regulating the speed of the vehicle and attachment means for releasably attaching the handle bar via a mounting piece to (or near) the steering column without the use of tools.