Haptic Feedback Shift Knob for Manual Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
In vehicles with manual shift transmissions, existing systems rely on visual cues for shift recommendations, which divert the driver's attention from the road and may not be noticed, impacting safety and performance.
Innovation Solution
A haptic feedback shift knob that provides tactile signals, potentially combined with auditory alerts, to indicate optimal shift times without requiring the driver to look away from the road, using sensors and controllers to detect hand presence and generate vibrations or sounds based on vehicle data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If visual cues (indicator lights or pop-up icons) are used to indicate optimal shift times, then the driver receives shift recommendations, but the driver must divert attention to the instrument cluster which reduces safety
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the shift knob as an intermediary device to transmit haptic feedback signals to the driver. Instead of requiring the driver to look at the instrument cluster, the system embeds a vibration motor in the shift knob that produces tactile pulses when an optimal shift point is detected. This intermediary mechanism delivers the shift recommendation through the existing tactile interface of the gear shifter, eliminating the need for visual attention while maintaining reliable communication of the shift timing.
2Reliability
If visual cues are used for shift notifications, then shift information is provided to the driver, but the driver may not notice the visual cue and miss the opportunity for better performance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs mechanical vibration through a vibration motor embedded in the shift knob to convey shift recommendations. When the powertrain controller detects an optimal shift point, it triggers the vibration motor to produce a distinct tactile pulse that the driver can feel through the shift knob. This mechanical vibration approach ensures the driver notices the shift signal through tactile sensation rather than relying on visual attention, eliminating the risk of missing the shift recommendation.
3Productivity
If the driver monitors visual cues for shift timing, then shift recommendations are received, but the driver's attention is diverted from the road which impacts safety
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the visual information system with a tactile feedback system. Instead of using visual displays that require the driver to look at the instrument cluster, the system substitutes mechanical vibration through the shift knob to communicate shift recommendations. This substitution allows the driver to receive shift timing information through tactile sensation while keeping visual attention on the road, thereby maintaining both fuel economy optimization and driver safety.
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
Enhances safety and performance by allowing drivers to maintain focus on the road while receiving timely shift notifications, improving fuel economy and response times.
Implementation Method 1
A vibration motor, which may be embedded within the shift knob or mounted on the gear shifter, generates vibrations
Data Source
AI summary
Automotive vehicles having a manual shift transmission, with driver feedback to indicate when a shift change is recommended or to provide other event notifications.